The vessels continued firing as they drew near each other.

The superior aim of the American speedily crippled the rigging of the other, and, coming together, the _Penguin_, as the British vessel proved to be, in preparing to board, succeeded in passing her bowsprit between the main and mizzen rigging of the _Hornet_ on the starboard quarter.

This gave the enemy the opportunity he seemed to be seeking, but his boarders did not appear.
The American sailors begged permission of Captain Biddle to board, but he would not consent, since he wished to hold the advantage already gained.

Just then the heaving sea broke the vessels apart, the _Penguin_ receiving considerable damage from the forcible rupture.

The _Hornet_ wore round to bring her broadside to bear, and was on the point of opening fire, when the surviving officer of the _Penguin_ called out that they surrendered.