of the squadron rowed for the shore. When they came close to the land,
the captain ordered the oars to be laid in.

"The breeze is very light," he said; "but it is favourable, and will
enable us to creep along the shore. If we continue rowing, those in
charge of the ship may hear us coming, and may cut their cables, get up
sail, and make out from the land without our seeing them. On a still
night, like this, the sound of the sweeps can be heard a very long
distance."

Quietly the vessel made her way along the shore. Over the land, the sky
was red with the reflection of numerous fires, but this only made the
darkness more intense under its shadow, and the lead was kept going in
order to prevent them from sailing into shallow water. By the captain's
orders strict silence was observed on board the ship, and every eye was
strained ahead on the lookout for the pirate vessel.

Presently, all became aware of a confused noise, apparently coming from
the land, but at some distance ahead. As they got further on, distant
shouts and cries were heard.

"I fancy," the governor said to the captain, "the band from the town
have met the pirates, and the latter are retreating to their ship."

"Then the ship can't be far off," the captain said. "Daylight is
beginning to break in the east, and we shall soon be able to make her
out against the sky--that is, if she is still lying at anchor."

On getting round the next point, the vessel was distinctly visible. The
shouting on the shore was now plainly heard, and there could be no