On the Ocean 59 



precision ; the Avon's gaff was shot away at almost 

 the first broadside, and most of her main-rigging 

 and spars followed suit. She was hulled again and 

 again, often below water-line; some of her carron- 

 ades were dismounted, and finally the main-mast 

 went by the board. At 10.00, after 31 minutes of 

 combat, her fire had been completely silenced and 

 Captain Blakely hailed to know if she had struck. 



No answer being received, and the brig firing a few 

 random shot, the action recommenced; but at 10.12 

 the Avon was again hailed, and this time answered 

 that she had struck. While lowering away a boat 

 to take possession, another sail (H. B. M. brig- 

 sloop Castilian, 18, Captain Braimer) was seen 

 astern. The men were again called to quarters, 

 and everything put in readiness as rapidly as pos 

 sible; but at 10.36 two more sail were seen (one 



