  
...the Frigate flyin' the French colors was well-armed and rained down fire and brimstone on me hearty crew from the opening volley! The hull of our galleon, The Prowler, was damaged in two places but we managed to stay afloat. After dousing two fires we rejoined the fray and returned the French Frigate a favor by pounding him with our cannons. Joining us under the Spanish colors were two well-armed Sloops with swivel cannons fore and aft. The French had nothing but the single Frigate, which should have been easy prey -- but their Captain was a devilishly good sailor. Slicing through the waters at a good clip, we passed and pounded each other with broadsides. There was only a bit 'o damage to me ship but we splintered the Frigate's hull and the Sloops took out her headsails. Once we got back up to full speed, we circled back around. I ordered me cannoneers to load up a chain shot to take down her main mast. Alas, the fates wouldn't have it. The French Frigate maneuvered to the other side, so's our cannons couldn't reach the canvas. We blasted 'em with a chain shot, which bounced off the thick hull like stinkin' pebbles. I heard the French Captain laugh like a hyena, as our compadres in the Sloops peppered their waterline at the rear. At last, the wretch was now crippled. Coming about for the final blow, we picked up speed and loaded for another broadside volley, as the French Frigate started listing badly to one side. With her hull exposed almost to the keel, we practically sideswiped the scallywag and blew 'em apart! His crew abandoned ship like a bunch of bilge rats. I sent me dinghy to give chase but the scared swine scampered onto their island and vanished into the thick underbrush. We returned to Isla De La Avaricia to celebrate our victory and make repairs. I expect a handsome reward from Captain Avaricia, if he's in a generous mood… and sober. All in all, t'was a profitable first day as a Spanish Privateer. |
