Commodore James was greatly astonished at the easy success which he had gained.

The extraordinary cessation of fire from the sea face, and the sound of artillery within the walls, had convinced him that a mutiny among the garrison must have taken place; but upon entering the fort he was surprised, indeed, at being received with a hearty English cheer, from a little body of men on the summit of an interior work.
The gate of this was at once thrown open, and Charlie, followed by his party, advanced towards the commodore.
"I am Captain Marryat, sir, of the Company's service in Madras; and was captured three months ago by these pirates.

When you attacked the place, yesterday, I arranged to effect a small diversion; and with the assistance of these five native officers, of my soldier servant, here, and these ten men of the merchant service, we have, I hope, been able to do so.

The native officers disabled the greater portion of the guns, during the night; and when you opened fire this morning we seized this inner work, which is also the magazine, and opened fire upon the rear of the sea defences.

By dint of our guns, and of menaces to blow up the place if they assaulted it, we kept them at bay until their flag was hauled down." "Then, sir," Commodore James said, warmly; "I have to thank you, most heartily, for the assistance you have given.