The captain looked on for a while in silence. Then he spoke.
"My lads," said he, "I've given Silver a broadside.I pitched it in red-hot on purpose; and before the hour's out, as he said, we shall be boarded. We're outnumbered, I needn't tell you that, but we fight in shelter; and a minute ago I should have said we fought with discipline. I've no manner of doubt that we can drub them, if you choose."
Then he went the rounds and saw, as he said, that all was clear.