142 RETURN TO THE SHIP. [1844. 



others were now advancing, and one came within musket 

 shot, but on examining the state of our ammunition it was 

 reported that all the percussion caps were expended, and 

 that but one round shot for the six-pounder remained. 

 The rocket-frame was also knocked overboard with me. 



As the enemy appeared to thicken from different 

 quarters, and as all advantage on our side would cease 

 with the discharge of the six-pounder, I was obliged to 

 give up the idea of taking out our prizes ; and as the gig 

 had not been discovered amongst them, I reckoned upon 

 the well-tried zeal and discretion of Mr. Hooper to rejoin, 

 particularly as I knew my gig to be much fleeter than 

 the barge, which had already proved to be superior in 

 this respect to their heavy prahus. Lieut. Baugh was 

 therefore directed to search for the ship, which he shortly 

 after discovered, at about fifteen miles distance, in the 

 offing. One large prahu appeared inclined to try her luck 

 with us, but I was not displeased to observe her change 

 her course and join those which we had left, as I consi- 

 dered the fresh force which would follow up this matter 

 upon my reaching the ship, would like to have their share 

 in the amusement. 



About 10 o'clock, A.M., we reached the ship, when 

 Lieut. Heard, supported by Lieut, Baugh and Mr. Loney, 

 Master, was despatched in command of the barge, first 

 and second cutters, with orders to seek Mr. Hooper, on 

 meeting him, to retain his services, and act to the best 

 of his judgment, in destroying the remaining pirates, but 

 on no account to land, or risk the lives of the men under 

 his command, by bush fighting. 



By the report of Lieut. Heard, he proceeded to the 



