Man for man, the Turks were better fighters than the boarders, most of
whom were civilians and unaccustomed to the use of weapons. But the latter
were fighting for their lives and were splendidly led by Captain
Carrington, Ken, Roy, and the two big sailor men. It was really the latter
five who carried the day. They were everywhere at once, slashing and
shooting like demons, and by degrees the Turks fell back before them.
Half a dozen or more were driven over the side into the sea, and left
perforce to drown.
At last the Turks broke and gave way. Some dropped their weapons and flung
up their hands in token of surrender.
'They've surrendered!' cried Captain Carrington. 'Give them quarter.'
At that moment Ken saw a Turkish officer, his face covered with blood,
spring out of the crowd aft and rush forward.
'Look out there!' he shouted, and wrenching himself loose from the press,
raced after the man.
The officer, however, had a long start, and before Ken could catch him,
had reached the gun and was swinging it round.
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