Note 5 — The destruction, capture, &c. of Portuguese Carracks, by English seamen. 1592-1594 A.D.

By noon, or one of the clock, of that day, being the 3rd of August [1592], the Dainty came near her so that the Gunner, whose name was Thomas Bedome (being a proper tall man: and had very good aim at anything, and good luck withal), desired the Captain [Thomson] he might give them a shoot: to let them understand that they were Englishmen; and, under Her Highness, Commanders of the Seas.

The Captain (having great care; and not willing to have any shoot shot in vain) commanded him to forbear till they should come nearer her; which was not long: when the Captain commanded him to do his best; and carousing a can of wine to his Company, encouraged them to begin the fight.

And coming up, [he] hailed them, after the manner of the sea; and commanded them to strike for the Queen of England: which they no sooner refused, but the Gunner, being ready, gave fire to two whole culverins in her chase; and racked and tore her pitifully.

Bearing up with them, [we] gave them the whole [broad] side; and boarded them presently: who resisted most courageously, and put us off again.

Thus continued the Dainty in fight a pretty while before any others could come to help her.

In which time, she laid her aboard three several times, tore her Ancient [Flag] from her Poop, and slew her Captain [?]. And more harm had done them: but that, by chance, a shot bare their Foremast by the board; which they were compelled to splice again, to their great trouble.

The Seaman's Triumph. [30th September] 1592.