about eleven o'clock
After two or three attempts , a gun was successful ; the shot shattered the first of the boats , which instantly filled and went down . The second boat pulled up and endeavoured to save the men , but we now poured our broadside upon them , and , daunted by the shot flying about them , they sought their own safety by pulling back to the vessel , leaving their sinking companions to their fate . Failing in this attempt , both vessels recommenced their fire upon us , but the distance and the swell of the sea prevented any execution , and at last they ceased firing , waiting till a breeze should spring up which might enable them to renew the contest with better success . At this time it was about eleven o'clock in the forenoon , and the combat had lasted about five hours . We refreshed ourselves after the fatigue and exertion which we had undergone , and made every preparation for a renewal of the fight . During the engagement we were so excited , that we had no time to think ; but now that we were cool again and unoccupied , we had time to reflect upon our position , and we began to feel dejected and apprehensive . Fatigued with exertion , we were weak and dispirited .