A cry of grief and rage had arisen when the crew saw that one of their galleys was disabled, and their excitement became intense when they saw the unequal struggle which Pisani was maintaining.
"They are preparing to board, captain," Francis said.

"We must go to the admiral's aid.

If his ship is captured, the battle is lost." "I am ready, Messer Francisco, if you authorize me." "Certainly I do," Francis said.

"The loss or capture of the Bonito is as nothing in comparison to the importance of saving Pisani." The captain gave the order for the hawser to be cut, and the sail hoisted.

A cheer broke from the crew as they saw what was to be done.
Their arms had been served out at the beginning of the contest, and they now seized them, and gathered in readiness to take part in the fight.
The two Genoese galleys had thrown their grapnels and made fast, one on each side of Pisani's galley.