Of Captain Mission by Daniel Defoe
page 38 of 53 (71%)
page 38 of 53 (71%)
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They had now run the Length of _Soldinia_ Bay about ten Leagues to the Northward of _Table_ Bay. As here is good Water, safe Riding, plenty of Fish and fresh Provision, to be got of the Natives for the Merchandize they had on Board, it was resolved to stay here some little Time for Refreshments. When they had the Bay open, they spied a tall Ship, which instantly got under sail, and hove out _English_ Colours. The _Victoire_ made a clear Ship, and hove out her _French_ Ensign, and a smart Engagement began. _The English_ was a new Ship built for 40 Guns, though she had but 32 mounted, and 90 Hands. _Misson_ gave Orders for boarding, and his Number of fresh Men he constantly poured in, after an obstinate Dispute obliged the _English_ to fly the Decks, and leave the _French_ Masters of their Ship, who promised, and gave them, good Quarters, and stripp'd not a Man. They found on Board the Prize some Bales of _English_ Broad-Cloath, and about 60000 l. in _English_ Crown Pieces, and _Spanish_ Pieces of Eight. The _English_ Captain was killed in the Engagement, and 14 of his Men: The _French_ lost 12, which was no small Mortification, but did not, however provoke them to use their Prisoners harshly. Captain _Misson_ was sorry for the Death of the Commander, whom he buried on the Shoar, and one of his Men being a Stone-Cutter, he raised a Stone over his Grave with these Words, _Icy gist un brave Anglois_, Here lies a gallant _English_ Man; when he was buried he made a tripple Discharge of 50 small Arms, and fired Minute Guns. The _English_, knowing whose Hands they were fallen into, charm'd with _Misson_'s Humanity, 30 of them, in 3 Days Space, desired to take on with him. He accepted 'em, but at the same Time gave 'em to understand, that in taking on with him they were not to expect they should be |
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