Page:An English Garner Ingatherings from Our History and Literature (Volume 1 1877).pdf/210

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pleasure to give them into their enemies' hands; it was not they that ought to show one displeasant look or countenance there against: but to take it patiently and not to prescribe a day and time for their deliverance as the citizens of Bethuliah did [JUDITH, v. 24]; but to put themselves under His mercy." And again, "if it were His mind and goodwill to show His mighty power by them; if their enemies were ten times so many, they were not able to stand in their hands." Putting them likewise in mind of "the old and ancient worthiness of their countrymen; who in the hardest extremities have always most prevailed; and gone away conquerors, yea, and where it hath been almost impossible." "Such," quoth he, "hath been the valiantness of our countrymen; and such hath been the mighty power of our GOD."

With such other like encouragements, exhorting them to behave themselves manfully; they fell all on their knees making their prayers briefly unto GOD: who being all risen up again, perceived their enemies by their signs and defiances bent to the spoil, whose mercy was nothing else but cruelty. Whereupon every man took him to his weapon.

Then stood up one GROVE the Master, being a comely man, with his sword and target; holding them up in defiance against his enemies. So likewise stood up the Owner, the Master's Mate, Boatswain, Purser, and every man well appointed. Now likewise sounded up the drums, trumpets, and flutes, which would have encouraged any man; had he never so little heart or courage in him.

Then taketh him to his charge, JOHN Fox the Gunner, in the disposing of his pieces in order to the best effect: and sending his bullets towards the Turks; who likewise bestowed their pieces thrice as fast towards the Christians. But shortly they drew near, so that the bowmen fell to their charge in sending forth their arrows so thick amongst the galleys; and also in doubling their shot so sore upon the galleys, that there were twice so many of the Turks slain as the number of the Christians were in all. But the Turks discharged twice as fast against the Christians, and so long; that the ship was very sore stricken and bruised under water. Which the Turks perceiving, made the more haste to come aboard the ship; which ere they could do, many a Turk