Tom: That's fascinating. However it does occur to me that the 'auger theory' could have found its way into the historical accounts from the ballad itself. It would be interesting to check the references you give (Pryor is in Google books, but I haven't the time right now).

The discussion at Lewes centred around the feasibility of an adolescent (a) drilling holes in a sturdy wooden hull whilst floating semi-submerged, with nothing to brace against, and (b) letting in sufficient water to sink a ship via a small number of small holes. I'm no expert on maritime engineering (or even simple physics), but if the enemy vessel was actually a "Turkish Roving Canoe" - as in the version of the ballad printed in Colcord's 'Roll and Go' - then all bets would be off!

Since this thread has now turned into an advertising hoarding for anyone who's ever hired my services, it's only fair to mention that I'll be appearing at the Court Sessions Folk Club at the Selkirk, Tooting, this Friday. If you're Sarf of the River, can't make Saturday and/or would prefer to hear something other than wall-to-wall Child ballads, that's the place to be. And the fact that it's Halloween has not escaped my notice.....