And they could discern signs of it now aboard the advancing English ship as well.

She was furling tops and mainsail, stripping in fact to mizzen and sprit for the coming action.

Thus, almost silently without challenge or exchange of signals, had action been mutually determined.
Of necessity now, under diminished sail, the advance of the Arabella was slower; but it was none the less steady.

She was already within saker shot, and they could make out the figures stirring on her forecastle and the brass guns gleaming on her prow.

The gunners of the Milagrosa raised their linstocks and blew upon their smouldering matches, looking up impatiently at the Admiral.
But the Admiral solemnly shook his head.
"Patience," he exhorted them.