Nevertheless, the rebel barks swarmed all over the submerged territory, now threatening this post, and now that, and effecting their retreat at pleasure; for nearly the whole of Parma's little armada was stationed at the two extremities of his bridge.

Many fire-ships were sent down from time to time, but Alexander had organized a systematic patrol of a few sentry-boats, armed with scythes and hooks, which rowed up and down in front of the rafts, and protected them against invasion.
Some little effect was occasionally produced, but there was on the whole more anxiety excited than damage actually inflicted.

The perturbation of spirit among the Spaniards when any of these 'demon fine-ships,' as they called them, appeared bearing down upon their bridge, was excessive.

It could not be forgotten, that the `Hope' had sent into space a thousand of the best soldiers of the little army within one moment of time.
Such rapid proceedings had naturally left an uneasy impression on the minds of the survivors.

The fatigue of watching was enormous.