It
then dived and took out several fathoms of line like a whale, but it soon
rose to the surface, and reared its frightful head and shoulders above the
waves, with the most threatening aspect of deadly warfare. Evidently eager
to revenge itself upon its enemies, the morse began to take hasty strokes
towards us, yet in a state of hurry and confusion which impressed us with a
belief that the balls had inflicted desperate, if not immediately mortal
wounds. Nevertheless, it displayed determination enough to enter into close
conflict with its foes, and came on, puffing and snorting, with a savage
though bewildered look. Seeing this disposition to assail us, we backed
astern; but before the walrus had made much progress, the guns were
reloaded, and another bullet struck it on the head, which sent it down
immediately; however, it quickly appeared again, raising itself high above
the water, and looking furiously around for its antagonists. When it
perceived our position, it resumed its endeavour to attack us; but during
its approach it stopped short, infirm of purpose, probably exhausted with
loss of blood, or growing giddy from the shock of the last ball, and
allowed us time to discharge a musket once more, and with fatal effect; its
head dropped suddenly upon the water, and we pulled up and took it in tow.
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