BLACK

THE

UCCANEER
BY

ILLUSTRATED

HARCOURT,

BY

BRACE
NEW

W.

STEPHEN

MEADER

MEAD

SCHAEFFER

AND
YORK

COMPANY

1920,

COPYRIGHT,
BRACE

HARCOUKT,

AND

^6*?

IN

BY

QUINN

"

THE

BODEN

TYPOGRAPHY

COMPANY,

INC

07

FOUNDATIONS.

TILOeN

PRINTED

BY

STATES

UNITED

COMPANY,
BY

ROBERT

OF

INC.,
S.

AMERICA

RAHWAY,
JOSEPHY

N.

J.

ILLUSTRATIONS

FELT

HE

HIMSELF

THE

LORD

OF

GREAT

Frontispiece

PROVINCE

"we

at

TIME
MARI-

have

beaten

shack

on

them,"

he

little

cove

54

cried

he

found

several

88

fishermen

"l

SHALL

COUNT

THEY

LET

STEDE

bonnet

IT

WAS

"they

started

HEAR

back

WITH

them"

HIS

THE

toward

LAST

112

DOWN

QUIETLY

faced

TO

FIRE"

THEN

THEMSELVES

GOOD

ME

THREE,

I42

160

FIGHT

CREAK

OF

THEIR

I9O

TIMBERS

SLOOP

ING
LEAD-

244

; :.:%*:^

""

THE

BLACK
BUCCANEER

CHAPTER

who

the

Penobscot

She

mouth.

backs

fifteen

fat
The

broad

soothing
No

those

northern

hamlet,
had

left

The

and

stern,

who

the

on

were

ten

that

boy's

river

broad,

of

The

of

this
the

sheet
and
in

employed

spectacle because,

Maine

thousand

from

of

migrating

which

flock.

season

bay,

of

tall

fourteen,

was

the

Kittery
year

the

along

the

the

game

settlement

nearest

the

minded

scarcely

were

coast

at

up

the

collie-

consisted

constantly

witness

whole

following

miles

the

huddled

craft

boy

was

to

while

rivers.

into

forty-five who

days, there

Louisberg,

Indians

of

present

remote

its way

sober-faced

remarkable

this

age,

was

men

and

restraining the bleating

and

one

white
to

his

for

shifting, noisy

and

noses

sheep

man

the

in

tiller

and

of

bearded

sinewy,

In

Southdown
crew

with

seen

making
up

of

rocks

have

might

strongly

deep

low

any

fact, nothing less extraordinary than

in

"

the

planking

set

white

lifted

woolly

dog.

that

loaded

was

that

cargo

hewn

July, 1718,

on

shore

bay

tide

the

against

of

15th

standing

been

of

boat

large, clumsy
out

had

one

the

of

morning

THE

two

tiny log
voyagers

morning.
keen

face, under
3

its shock

of

sandy

hair,

BLACK

THE

toward

turned

was

that

the

the

smudged

and

sea

the

dim

outline

of land

horizon.

southern

he

"Father,"

BUCCANEER

"how

asked,

suddenly

is

big

the

Island?"
"You'll

enough, Jeremy. Stop

soon

see

the

answered
I'll leave

night and

I" snorted

"Huh

Indeed
the

alone

on

Indian

seen

raids

his mother

save

in

before; and
when

he

strife had

beyond

given

some,
lone-

ten

before

he

had

in the

mind

the

miles

out

old

was

tried

Amesbury

the

on

done

in the

the

lad

six years

River,

work

at

fast and

the

firing

Danger

company.

alert

an

as

his fists

Saco

man's

know

to

with

massacre,

little settlement

had

He

sea.

enough

his best

of

prospect

at

on

self-confidence

and
far

his years.

Amos

that

island

woodsman

any

be

this lad, raised

loophole, loading nearly

as

before

himself.

to

twelve, he had

was

blockhouse
true

there

sheep. You'll

likely that

very

frightened him;

what

as

an

be

tioning,"
ques-

not."

Jeremy

not

was

the

of frontiers, would

wildest

night

to

it

with

you

if I mistake

too,

"We'll

man.

your

his father,

Swan,

fought

wilderness

out

in the

the

of those

one

was

struggle with

early days. He

line of colonization
his way

with

the other

place to

raise

sheep. Instead

into

had

New

followed

he

spirits

England

the Northeast,

pioneers.What
of

the

iron

vancing
the ad-

hewing

sought

was

increasing,however, his

BLACK

THE

flock had
in the

dwindled

determined

two

boys

Jeremy

to

Tom,

"

to

"

the
his

with

move

nineteen
island

an

After

lynxes there

"

his

possessionsand
the

smaller

for the attacks

remote

he

onslaught

old, and

years

too

last

dogs

"

of any

animal.

So

he had

set

and

built

flock, while

few

settlers, had
but

rude

in

out

and

of

here

wolves

"

larger settlements.

had

wild

BUCCANEER

chosen

canoe,

shelter

temporary

home

at

the

boys,

the keel

laid

his

seaworthy boat,

it for

on

with

the

such

the

as

family
of

help

the hull

fashioned

and

tation
habi-

place of

men
fisher-

coast

used.
had

Preparations
and

the

been

while

now,

the

mainland,

Tom

In

the

stood
as

rocky

against the

out

the

at

world's

up-ended
hundred
nested

feet

by

through
that

rocks

that

high,

countless

naked
grass

beginning.
and

their gaunt
rib of

struggled with

gray

the

bleak

sides

junipers for

Atlantic

the

layer
where

thrust
a

sea-birds

however,

except

granite was

the

tops

accumulated

desolate

merely huge

of

larger ones,

dreds
huncoast

and

were

out

whose

on

The

ages,

Some

Maine

the

line
as

sheer

rose

the million.

covered

sea

voying
con-

place, the

took

that

gray

were

on

home.

new

events

bits of land

flock

the

son

younger

their

to

these

day when

of

and

fore,
be-

evening

half

for

cared

father

the first load

the

completed

had,

of earth
an

out.

foothold

sional
occa-

Sparse
along

BLACK

THE

the

low

slopes, and

wind-blown

the

rugged

and

almost

Norse

or

bird-carried

crest

of each

for there
was

to

was

miles

south

of

of

the

brought

In

long bay

Amos

it

just past

was

found

boat

the

these

craft

near

into

the

be

could

flood, the

were

The

hoisted
old

waded

fast

out
as

the

over

upon

they

man

were

by

one

the

chosen

ram,

heels. The
and

Next,

gunwale
for

freed, while

and

boy

was

carried

landward
a

of

score

at

shore

any

boy had

little

toward

high

frightened sheep
the shallow

water.

quickly

followed

others

the collie barked

run

load

yards

tide. As

disembark,

to

the

and

dry land,

lightened boat

into

the first

still-favoring

far up
the

one,

little

mid-afternoon.

and

man

twenty

and
a

in

run

difficultyin beaching their vessel

water-mark.

fishing

islands,

beach

pebbly

the

inlets.

Settlement

deep

alone,

ones

and

ited
vis-

in need

crew

outer

Desert, that

cut

their

and

rarely
a

there

larger of

Penobscot

that

length, where

in

the

the

sheltered

of Mount

had

Swan

killed

the cumbersome

wind
a

be

in the

one

the southwest

to

left

long

ers,
singing row-

were

or

"

them,

first

increased

isles

too,

to

game

than

better

no

It

no

of the

the

climbed

the

Since

tune

been

visited

men

shipwreck

"

Indians,

was

the

but

changed,

The

water.

Few

them.

to

had

seed

the mainland,

passing shipshad

by mishap

except

from
island.

by

of

had

firs, whose

inhabited

none

the number

of

black

galley swung

character

BUCCANEER

higher up
after

load

at

the
of

as

their

beach,
tools,

BLACK

THE

and

equipment
shack,

fenced
his

launch

to

climb

and

supper

and

cheerful
drew

hand

Til

answered

collie,

of
who

the

few

unmanly

he

cove

shouldered

lick,

companionable
tears.

of

he

As

the

felt

up

kept

the

started

Eat

this

time

He

tried

to

sail

filled

and

homesick.

to

to

*'Good-by,

before

as

back

sheep.

the

Jeremy.
but

log

into

hurried

shoulder.

back

be

small

sheep

trip.

care

unconcerned,
out

the

Jock,

bed.

to

then

boy's

"Take

the

to

the

return

the

gently.
go

the

patted

Father,"

"Ay,

boat

he

drive

hut,

the

make

and

slope
away.

him

beside

he

in,

said

lad,"

boat

yards

helped

pen

the

up

hundred

father

Jeremy's
rude

provisions

two

some

BUCCANEER

him

boy

Only
and
from

gave

your
morrow."
to-

look
the
old

his
ding
shed-

CHAPTER

it from

mile

hardy
bare
an

Between

granite ledge,
inverted

He

the

in

had

left

chewed

started
He

hillock

for

small

he

the

pistol, heavy

had

to

hill

the

of
a

was

smooth

as

climb.
stones

with

cud

in

as

it took

their

pen,

clinging

up

against

paused
which

sheep,

the

of

for
fortably
com-

slipping

and,
into

his

belt,

bit.

place

in

the

that
of

side

wedged
him

only
8

the

round

halfway

found

become

and

brass-mounted,

and

crevice

had
and

Jock

bit

came

summit

rocky

worked

he

before

last

afternoon,

late

explore

have

must

wanted,

fir

dark

patches

nearly

the

through

this

of

side

steep

short

of

and

of

and

stone

crown

round

as

scrambling

undergrowth

breath.

stretches

bowl.

Jeremy,

the

of

The

bushes.

island

high hilltop perhaps

lay ascending

and

grass

or

ing
shelter-

the

rose

on

fifty

it and

winds

southerly

outcroppings

of

Behind

to

stood

elevation

an

sea.

ridges

rugged

rough

at

built

had

Swan

the

and

easterly

away.

woods,

above

feet

and

sharp

Amos

knoll,

bare

small

sixty

in

that

shelter

j/" W'^HE

II

offered

the

gave
a

minute

rock

granite
foothold
in

the

him
to

which
chance

reach

the

BLACK

THE

rounded

surface
himself

found

perhaps
Its

height

above

seemed

be

to

widest

from

the

head

bays

hut

the

which
its

It

the

out

in

he

farther

could

island
at

its

could

see

the

Between

been

backbone

northern

erly
Southwest-

Jeremy

have

of

size

five

the

of

larger inlet.

high ridge,the

of the

The

built.

away,

the

its otherwise

into
shore

of

the

at

not

see

masses

feet.

were

hardly

from

blue

dred
hun-

most

length by

cut

the

and

but

his

at

near

second

several
could

surprised

sheep-pen

westward

ran

west

miles

was

and

distance

miles, but

two

island

deep bays

hill and

the

of

the

was

seven

Two

the

the

to

spread

outline.

that

which

on

been

light Jeremy

of

He

about

part.

rounded

the

far

domain

new

one

outline

have

must

sea

clear

Mountains.

Camden

the

the

well, and

as

ledge

across.

the

in

only the whole

The

top.

reasonably flat,nearly circular, and

yards

feet, for

bay

the

near

was

twenty

BUCCANEER

than

more

of

the

the hill top, divided

island,
them

by

rugged barrier.

Jeremy
see

the

looked

speck

the

lord

The
of

up

of white

landward
abeam.

away

on

the

sail that
a

long

boy's loneliness
a

great

high watchtower,

maritime

showed

tack
was

where

bay

with
gone.

could

still

his father

rying
hur-

he

the
He

felt himself

province, which,

he seemed

to

hold

in

wind

west

from

undisputed

his
ereignty.
sov-

BLACK

THE

him

Beneath
island

and

tiny

It

was

and

coast,

The

The

and

more,

first

"

the
at

doors
the

made

the

edge

of the

surprised

was

them

before

nearer

shattered.

was

disgusted
of

he

his

musing.
the

up

the

breeze.

He

was

this

with

turned

to

see

that

kingdom

end.

his way

homeward,

So

ridge till he

which

but
was

no

he

had

this time

down

to

yawn

he

now

back

was

once

the

shortening

the

surprised and
should

thought

pass
to

be

the cliff and

following

opposite

10

sail behind

traffic

he clambered

came

looked

second

much

so

just

he

crevice

rapidly. He

world's

of the

he

the southwest,

good size, bound

vessel, it seemed,

between

somewhat

rim.

to

spot

interesting,but

were

smaller

distance

empire

setting,and

Ships
At

world's

interrupted

of

Atlantic

the

of

little

in his universe.
was

sun

descend.

of

lay

feeling of dominion,

gray

nevertheless

dream

alone

hungry.

bowling smartly

boy's

longer

of

blue

the

this

ship, apparently

southward

cold

to

with

aware

that

spot

the

away

glowed

became

suddenly
a

he

as

the

to

then

and

stretchingaway
Even

off

and

two,

or

BUCCANEER

the

the northern

mit
sum-

inlet.

III

CHAPTER
dark

growing

WAS

IT

that

stepped

spring,

had

he

in. There

little

this, the

Following
slope

the

beside

flock, brought
and,
bread
the

boy

had

which

and

bay.

cheese
The

wrapped

snuggled

close
fell

someness

outside

his

heavy

to

back

great

high overhead,

the

known

First

enough
bling
bub-

sand

it, was

Jock's
on

Vega;

the

hut

chill

in

yellow

planet

sparkling
in
12

white
moment

as

the

of

fog.

they
west,

what,
a

dozen

The

him,

his

in

stars

in

of

round

and

hairy side,

stream,

slope facing

cloak

homespun

placid

supper

without

but

grassy

the

little

the

across.

the
at

in

shaped

two

his

ate
on

the

time

the

lantern,

of
or

moss

hill

the

upon

from

counting

and

out

the

over

of

yard

looked

He

water

settled

night

the

out.

of

came

soon

light

to

course

bed

sheep-pen.

caring

not

slope

the

in

boy

bucket

softly

northern

the

deep, well-defined

deep

falling

and

white

the

see

lapped

water

down

rivulet,

itself

the

edge

trickled

and

to

of

from

above

trees

denly
sud-

bottom.

the

one

him

for

through

at

in the

brink

keep

to

growth

Jeremy

the

at

moss

branch

opening

an

light came

At

catch

to

was

the

upon

fir

dense

when

hillside, and

the

covered

the

in

already

lonecame

then,
had

he

others

BLACK

THE

night

Deep
he

when

turn

back

days

that

in his

how

he

followed

into

he

twice

stumbled

the

felt that
His

front.

seemed

with

excitement,

threw

himself

dull-gray, quiet

in the south.
a

of

Then

one,

waiting

ear

looked

for

flash

next
a

the

on

heard
the
came

cannon

was

Jeremy

flame

the

booming

from

the

to

up
and

spars

drowned

in

trembled

on

14

an

the

top

of

the

haps
per-

splotches
from

the

before

his

out

the

sky

report.

in kind, but

answer

right as

of fire
go

shot

the

as

stones.

to

vague

of

and

horizon,

and

elapsed

roar

in the

edge.

line

two

right.Seconds

left,illuminating her
the

land
saw

sudden

bigger ship

bright sheet

dim

the

met

between

broken

struggled

or

just in

was

the southern

to

sea

Halfway

darkness.

Once

loudly

as

the

up

he

league distant, Jeremy

smaller

saw

forward

ledge

almost

felt his way

ily
stead-

thinned

trees

of the

beat

to

Panting
A

of adventure

tripped

or

to

in the

so

legs working

logs

looming shape
he

and

his

till the

upward

on

while

cannonade

done

strain

hardy

fallen

over

heart

tempted

was

had

he

and

set

he

pitch-blackundergrowth.

the

rocks, but he held

he

the

jaw

his

spiritkept

forward

but

"

wish

to

was

Jeremy

to

more.

once

engulfed him,

shadow

"

uninviting

and

the hill

up

the fir-

the island, and

over

black

very

started

their

As

settled

had

looked

woods

BUCCANEER

before.

from

This

the vessel

topsails.The
instant

time

by

his rock. The

on

sound

terrific

ships were

He

the
he

the
of
plosion.
ex-

in

THE

for

darkness

then, before
of

flame

of the

another

began

its

By

She

ninety

guns

and,

to

works

victorious

burden,

the

in

of

her

black
to

come

head

fire

were

vessel

was

and

rigging

gained

way
head-

single great
ible.
plainly vis-

to

ports.

the

island.

wind

the

As

the

He

within

the shore.

15

her
a

great

of brass

blazing ship
about,

straight for

lay

hold

sloop came

made

amazement,

with

and

the muzzles

deck

the east,

rock, watching the stranger

and

flare,and

fired,little tongues

tall-masted

Below

Jeremy's
bay

be

little the

by

upper

helplesslyoff

southern

could

first great

schooner-riggedsloop-of-war,of eighty

tons'

gleamed

drifted

Little

lightthe

of mainsail.

sweep

shot

whole

was

that

spread along the hull

to

largercraft.

torch.

BUCCANEER
after

moment

till the

or

BLACK

as

course

dozen

if

glued
up

to

the
his

the inlet

boat-lengthsof

CHAPTER
of

NE

o
the

you

know

had

been

Jeremy

guess.
be

welcome

had
with

There

was

It

now.

night

him

air

and

moored,

solution

to

ship's

crew,

in small

hillside.

the

and

lad

who

the

crossing

in

adventure

his

would

meat

know

must

that

drove

shivered

He

to

scruple in dealing

no

duty

of

crew

impossible

was

Fresh

He

of

for

do.

the

sheep.

mere

sense

felt

it

intended

of

for

Whether

use

age.

they

the

has

ridge, which

they
island.

his

heart

his

bling
trem-

miserably

pistol-butt, which

the
and

arm

to

the

of

head

in

gave

in

the
of

been

described, bore

base

of

the

quarter
a

of

the
a

mile

rough granite
17

the

southern

bay, where

the

scarcely a

ridge projected

already

from

direction

sloped steeply
above

the

would

his

feeling

down

southerly

the

of

brain

to

going

comfort.

scant

The
a

average

purely

was

legs
the

any

they

is

effecting a landing

for

that

no

his

is

business, after

fellow

enemies

or

whether

and

were

then

feared

youngster

other

witnessed.

just

to

doubt

no

the

learns

boy

own

your

threshing

friends

were

backwoods

mind

to

sloop, just

strange

boats,

things

what

had

he

scene

first

it pays

that

Jeremy

the

the

IV

ledge,
inlet.

sloop
from
crag

and

High
now

was

the
like

in

shore,
a

bent

BLACK

THE

knee.

had

Jeremy
noted

gasping breath,
to

the

rough
heard
the

over

the

beach
or

score

of

faces, but Jeremy

was

clothes

jerkin of

the

breeches

of

from

girdle to

the

antique

three-cornered
here

and

twisted
fire

and

Nearly

every

his side

and

This

cut

and

or

to

cloth

red

the knees.

there

face

on

man

most

of

small-arms
carried
had

one

caps

grimaced
Everywhere
one

some

about

their

Colonial

or

motley

pany.
com-

and

or's
sail-

slashed

leather

skirts

reaching

the group

of

Some

hats, others seamen's

rakishlyaskew.

rag

gleamed

waistband

mariner

average

on

saw,

light.The

the seaboots

from

varied

such

Soon

and

English

by

manned

he

near,

tell much

no

along

lightshone

of

driftwood

to

that

sure

be

sloop-of-warwould
Their

for him

great

the bare

on

the circle of

gathered in

men

too

was

he drew

As

of his

his hands.

glow

fire of

great

faint

of the crag.

below,

more

distance

shout.

distant

edge

thirty

forward

with

way

the

through

minute

he crawled

Then

feelinghis

cliff top,
a

for

crouched

and

get his wind.

stone

it. He

photographed

before

minutes,

noon
after-

that

he stumbled

as

in his

all this
had

eye

and

map

of

long time, perhaps twenty or

he came
the sound
out, stifling

It seemed

trees.

he

landmark

every

plan

woodsman's

this mental

followed

fair

very

his trained

for

mind,

BUCCANEER

of

rough wool,

from

beneath

about

kind

wore

or

the

them

another.

wicked-looking hanger

or

two

pistolstucked

into

holster.

desperate gang

in

was

18

constant

at

commotion.

BLACK

THE

Even

Jeremy watched,

as

barrel

who

light,those

had

that made

scene

it

what

certain
His

buccaneers

though

because

had

if

the end
to

to

out

then

"

those

south, there

farther
in

days,

less troubled,

within

Boston

way

top

in the air and

rum

of their
oaths

were

of the ruffians

dozen

the

sense

it seemed

except

and

led

Either

of it. "Walk
be

to

or

"

seemed

he

turned

the

pit of

to

began

the

crawl

phrase

one

that he

at

began

bloody beggars

"overboard"
bad

to

the words

lungs. All

refrain,repeated so often

feelingat

His

word

of in those
were

hanged

of

Jeremy

tell which.

sick

were.

ports

the argument

the

at

of the

all below!"

just

than

sea-rovers

clinch

song

make

not

more

memory.

reached

that

that

sure

become

had

talked

England

their cannikins

shout

the

upon

be

to

each

leaping

single terrible

much

guarded,

many

Jeremy's

swung

his eyes

these

men

were

the New

better

been

As

it. The

he

shape

to

bright

over

brilliance

moment

of

manner

pearance
ap-

I"

"Pirates

and

blink

every

lips moved

The

that surrounded

Jeremy

real. With

was

the circle of

into

weird, uncertain

greeted its

dancing, quarreling and

been

mob

ing
roll-

were

the other side of the fire fell

throwing dice on
other to join the
threw

men

howls

Wild

hustled

it was

as

half dozen

the beach.

up

and

flames

BUCCANEER

he could

"

enough

to

the

homeward,

boy

with

his stomach.

straightback
19

across

the

ridge

to

the

BLACK

THE

shore.

thence

and

spring

he

woods

until

middle

of the

breeze
close

of

had

his progress.

other

voice

even

tone,

and

his

sound

of

also

Cowering
the

and

nearer

that

served

still while

bass

him

that

and

rather

erly
west-

ridge

wind

which

had

away

the

on

he

tree,

for

stood

the

sound

stood
be

fectly
per-

seemed

to

deep, rough

very

between

precise

the

near

he

voices

two

sort,

of

way

with

"

The

speeches.

totally different

land

bearings, the

was

hoarsely

of

was

One

nearer.

the

through

as

the

there

"

north

along caring only

carry

against

voices

laughed

to

of

but

home,

prayed fervently

him

came

crashed

and

the

on

able

was

height

had

He

brought

by. He

warned

the

his breath

get

shelter

speed he

reached

sheep-pen

to

moment

the

to

best

island.

the

reach

to

down

the

made

He

BUCCANEER

cool,

clipping

the

words.

here, David,"

"See

''it's for

say,

the sailor

You're
"Huh
north
east
a

are

I"
to

to

fir

an

I" He
of

here.

them

Give

sharp rock;

three-score

oak

tree

ended

his

on

in

in
the
a

gully;
south

chuckle

figures.
20

again

an'

five

north

an'

thirty north
a-d

to
me.

I"

five northeast

two

if

now

hunder'

an'

as

latter

bearings, not

"two

Big Voice,

grunted

blazed

tree

those

remember

to

you

the

understood

Jeremy

there

pleased by

the

ten

by
to

you
curacy
ac-

BLACK

THE

ment.

oath

out

after

length,

at

he

moment

smaller

his breath.

under

the

blarsted

had

who

man,

speechless,then

was

oath

"did

BUCCANEER

speak up!
"Ay,"

The
into

looking keenly

here*?"

live

asked

here'?"

come

him:

addressed

face, suddenly

Jeremy's

he

"How,"

whelp

been

began ripping

he

"Here

you,

cried.

Do

you

said

the

boy, beginning

has

there

to

get

grip

his

on

thoughts.
"How

long
last

none

was

had

quickly. He
while
lied

he

must

'Tis

each

guns

in

the

wrist

I"

and

steady

twisting

it

The

With
the

two

men

giant broke

an

looked

safe. So

"a

great

new

ships of forty

they

be

watching

seizing Jeremy's

man,

I Are

and

set

nodded

knees

and

and

telling

you

kept

bling
trem-

his voice

"Ay I"
each

at

other, scowling. The

best haul

"We'd

out

now,

Cap'n,"

said.

"And

so

believe," the

he

finished.

white
lad

reasoned

forgiven.

three

horribly."Boy

pain, the

silence.

be

bearded

face

groaned

be

harbor, and

parts,"he
the

he

as

these

growled

truth?"
from

north

and

mumbled,

There

town.

well-dressed

sheep

to

There

for the present,

the

keep

costs

wits

of escape

colony," he

Boston

piratesin
"Boy

he

all

at

new

colony from

the

little chance

here?

the

his

recovered

manfully, praying the while

"

for

settlement

continued

Autumn,"
had

Jeremy

man.

been

other
22

replied."But

the

water-

THE

casks

spring."It

light,that

the

here with

Boy,

with

come

worse

for

toward

the

Jeremy's wrist

Crashing
had

scant

but

as

bearded
sure.

He

found

boy

in

will

crossed

had

hill
for

crag

no

into the thicket

time
and

walked

through

brush, the lad

the

observing things about

saw,

or

fancied

above, the slouched

Herriot, but

birch

quickly

iron.

against the sky. It

for

ier.
eas-

'twill

fuss, either, or

saying he

gully he

silhouetted

giant called

no

the

you

shore, holding the stumbling

grip of

the

or

so

hither

return

may

And

southern

knee-shaped

buccaneer

we

Make

me.

you."

down

time

they

the

on

the

and

far away

not

was

Jeremy, "show

to

Herriot," said the Captain, "stay

Dave

"Now,

back

he turned

as

trouble.

it without

be the

BUCCANEER

I"

Here

empty.

are

the

us

BLACK

was

he

him,
saw,

figureof
not

another, Jeremy

the
was

conjectures,for they plunged

limbs

face.

23

whipped

him

across

the

CHAPTER

impression
lander.

was

fate.

must

It

soon

they

as

he
wild

carouse

Fierce

from

redly

by

flames,

gleamed

As
the

the

which

kept

"Silence
and
went
no

on

time

on

ceased.

Jeremy's
for

beards

All

the

brows.

bands

into

the

the

the
to

from

drinking.

We

"clear

have

24

lit from

dancing
the

knots

of

of

men

their

this group,

single drunken

behind

crew.

everywhere.

center
a

as

The

of

Many

about

for

lips,leered

by

quiet about

captor,

sudden

the

Eyes,

the

Captain sharply. The

was

pirate

more.

cruel

chests.

light
flaring fire-

among
and

naked

fell away

the

the

the

once

progress

black

uncertainly

I" said

himself

without

strode

with

unknown

and

pistol-butts flashed

silver

chorus

of
an

into

from

metal

Captain

swinging

and

wake

toward

rocks

in

Eng-

frightened him,

control

below

and

pig-tails,while

the

hairy,

liquor

earrings

wore

that

unkempt

above

within

it all

still

faces, with

hand

darkness

to

was

relentless

the

down

able

would

been

New

young

he

him

terribly clear

the

dragging

of

came

was

the

that

have

unexpectedness

of

afterward

Years

again

made

night

the mind

on

shiver, imagining

captain

that

of

events

j/ WN^HE

the

voice

rum-barrel.
voice

dled
dwin-

fire. "Men,"

heads,

all, for

found

this

boy

this
upon

is

THE

the hill,who

league

from

be

of

out

boy

reach

where

later

I"

were

with

he

the

boy's

northern

breeches

colonists

moccasins

and

ho, young

woodcock,

Major
The

the
fear

lad

big

deerskin

Stede

"We'll

expression. The

make

clipthe
a

buckskin

into his shirt like

his

attire

strolled
down

and

Jeremy

had

most

of

as

into

the

on

the

rough
"Ho,

roar.

like the company

in

jaw

the

hard

nodded

man

looked

and

face. There

yet." He

no

was

chuckled

and

stooped

Jeremy's leg.The
a

hillside.

cock's shank-feathers, and

him

fringe on

ment
mo-

pluck, boy, that's pluck," said he.

young

pirateof

rovers'?"

squarely

approvingly. "That's

ye

boat,
long-

tall, slack-

up

such

burst
do

nothing, shut

buccaneer

in his

how

and

the

ay.

crew,

the

pirate,seeing

trousers,

Bonnet's

said

his cloak

The

wore.

him

tunic

the

as

left. A

looked

and

"Ay,

to

up

picturesque

roguish grin. Under

fringed leather

of

been

and

keep

in the sand.

plowing

had

most

side

hurried

kegs lay

gone,

where

stood

and

Rowland,

chorus,

words,

line of small

they

the

the

take

now

finished.

he

as

broken

hour

an

man

Job

above

the beach."

on

out

in

came

Every
You,

here

by

jointed pirate in
to

dawn.
me.

ships not

sail within

set

broke

partially sobered

over

must

the watch

Bonnet

Jeremy

fleet of armed

follow

commotion

Captain

BUCCANEER

before

and

and

Fresh

tells of
here. We

water-keg
the

BLACK

flash. He

25

had

over

to

maybe
feel the

boy's hand

pulled

out

the

went

pistol

BLACK

THE

cocked

and

second

his

I heard

grudge

for

Jeremy

in

cleared

and

man-of-war
and

say

do

say,

had
dared

buccaneers

tho', as

old

run

we

time

is

so

Stede
was

to

for

used

make
to

Bonnet,
undermanned

cut

shift

havin'
too.

sails the

ships," said

spell

last
to

his

That

just

loose.
26

seas

own

but

him

way

Stede

made
and

safe

"We

see

had

they

magistrates
as

Ye

capes.

that

Job.

year,

agree.

then

and

Virginia

all the

the

detail

Teach,

Edward

an'

swore

government

thick with

plumb

He

to

on

the

about

Cap'n

twenty

couldn't

man

beard

is

fleet of
him

went

years

king himself,

him."

anigh
he

"When

twenty

the

of the Massachusetts

planters in Carolina,
with

no

beside

down

seas

from

come

and

along

hold

he confided.

southern

papers

Blackbeard,

the

with
to

sat

be

"ye'U

struck

and

it was,"

the

call

had

Job,

have

occurred

for

he

insecurityof

"They

Job

senses,

pirate seemed

reminiscently as

severities

recent

The

ain't what

they

gently

for

friendly fashion.

Kidd

no

dazed

lay

his

said

should

ye

had

what

agone,

he

from

coolly tucking the pistol

"Ay,"

click."

the

tradin'

"Free

Billy

only

he

and

regained

of him

waist-band.

own

fine buccaneer,
butt.

he

astride

stood

hard

ground
When

two.

or

Howland
into

hit the

head

His

the

legs snatched

felt both

he

him.

under

it, when

BUCCANEER

if

as

sailed
an'

the

this Black-

he

wanted

to

boilin', but
to

bide

our

BLACK

THE

"Cap'n Bonnet,
in his sword

long

terrible
the
with

maybe

Stede

Bonnet

Don't

when

when

long

nine

comes

tonight,blast

her

we'll

never

Well,

off the end

of

to

with

he

Port

when

after

that's

"

was

bit

able

growed

and

African

trade, along

great
the

an

of

rover

somewhere

Town

under

and

occupation
"

it

if Fd

might
This

caused

his

not

must
to

kept

that

quid

an

immense

of tobacco, which

meditatively

myself,"

Then

when

Ben

Hornygold,

sends

maroons

to

found

always

me

into

bark

our

I took

So

it's made

he

rest

it

rich

the
of

Twelve

up.

was

in the

Virginia bark

and

bit

"

neering,
buccaa

fine

maybe

sharin's."

delivered
life-history,
Howland

paused,

of Providence

out

prize crew.
Fve

provinces.

England

ship, the

Cubas,

all my

and

picks us

and

his

own

say

Cap'n

on

of the

I" He

"

from

rum

sure

you.

on

comes

days

takes

south

Charles

seaman

those

likeliest he

bigger nor

pirate

continued

and

French

honest

"Sailed

sunk

lank

the

the

New

from

when

we

Jamaica

tobacco

of black

rope

time.

for

up

know

luck,

and

sugar

surveyed the boy. 'I'm

said

his

curse

headed

here

sails

then's

Frenchman

"

''probably loaded
and

That

He's

merchantman

aboard,

two

or

but

Herriot

sight a big

we

him.

anger
Dave

bloody spars"

interrupted himself
Martinique

never

ye

deck.

on

seamanship

on

he's raised.

but

ship mostly,

is short

see,

arm.

watch

to

ye

BUCCANEER

almost

in

amount

nearly choked
27

one

of

breath, had
trouble

him

as

with
he fin-

BLACK

THE

ished.
the

pair

Jeremy
heard

Job

rose,

went

to

beach

long

while.

clatter

the

meet

the young

sound

of his

vast

were

quiet

for

Then

the

and

hand

woodsman,

the

all the

He

scene.

was

boatload

there Job

and

water-kegs

hours

twenty

over

barrel
aboard
to

bumped
and

anchor

and

rattled
out

came

of

stalwart

pirates manned

foresail

Herriot

companion,

and

her

head

swung

the

stood

his bull
over

helm,
roared

voice
the

and

ing
passin

as

the last

crew

were

the

rest

the

lass
windchain

the

dripping

inboard.

bang,

as

The
dozen

halyards.

the

at

work

ached

till

first

the

no

swung

with

over

had

turned

bits

and

fire

chanty. The

was

up

melee

orders

with
to

All

bodies

the

went

him

body

hatch.

and

the ways

to

dying

had

muttered

water

and

Dave

the

over

mainsail

they

sloop

He

swaying

of

rhythm

and

set

his whole

of

charge,

of

the

to

hold.

the

through

kegs.

low-spoken

Rowland

and

knot

the

creaked

into

was

bewildering

glimmer

rowed

was

above
of

utterly unused

the

and

to

bumping

his

hurrying, sweating toil, with

half-caught oaths

seemed

sailors.

half-hour

next

what
rocks

the
of

returning

expectorations,

the

on

shoes

of

grasping

of the sea,
of

the

on

the

To

for the

Except

BUCCANEER

breeze

abaft

cabin

the

the orders
steadied

as

in

he
the

tall sails.

"Look
now

to

alive
set

there, mates!"

the main

jibI"

Like

28

he
most

bellowed.
of the

"Stand

by

pirate sloops-

CHAPTER

in

the

growled
clock
The

down

he

bunk,

him

at

bones
to

cruel,

and

cold.

his

from

left

crushed

was

touch

of

seemed

The

eyebrow

collar.
man

with

hard

shove

stand

the
sent

of

broken
the

that

they

the

To

he

was

boy spinning
30

about
his

lubber!"

"Get

nose.

aft, an'
to

his

the

nose

bridge,
a

Jeremy

to

speakably
un-

ran

produced

familiar

there, you

looked

of

were

eyes

its

than

half-dazed

jerked

had

and

crossed

and

eyes.

sword-cut

animal

an

his head

strangely

still stared

"Don't

look

His

scar

scowling

man

mouth.

of

the

on

sleepy

The

right cheek,

the

bound

barbarity.

he

his

to

his

ward
to-

over

face

the
to

line

gray

where

the

cloth

for

color

in

rolled

awake.

twisted

vivid

something

as

the

slept

sitting position

him

light

so

more

red

greasy

and

inward

him

giving

he

utterly fiendish

looked

'un,"

young

"you've

as

start,

gave

ugliness fairly shocked

small

but

his

of

gloom

aft."

you

came

he

grim, bristly jaw

all

lying

was

the

"Come,

Jeremy,

to

wants

in

light.As

the

of

edge

Cap'n

ached

lad

the

Its

around

He
in

forecastle.

cramped

voice, strange

awake.

somewhere

bunk

dingy

him

shook

hand

ROUGH

VI

his
feet

man.

final

there
pose,

by the

shouted

the

lively!"
foot

of

the

The
He

ladder.

climbed

looking about
been

past

The

fresh

weather

swarthy
or

fo'c's'le

of

hatch.

mind

aboard

this

Bonnet
harm
face

to

think

no

make

ye

sea

below

leaned

fist and

one

the

At

wheel
like

his
a

was

guese
Portu-

his shoulder, Jeremy

over

looked

against

about

forward
and

up

boy

the

of

called

him

He

thought.

sailing-master,staggering

to

vanced
ad-

little

stern

set

ye

there,

legs,ye
now.

can

if

or

we'll

For

be

Quick

nought

what

does

ever

ye

keel-haul

big and

sort

I"

31

o' cabin

takes

man'U

and

now

it in yer

straightand

strong,

the first on

Stede

the tanned

'twixt

ye

to

they're

Major

into

came

for shore

it. You're

hand.

foremast

as

look

hard

runnin'

about

'ee. There's

gives the orders, no

Herriot
and

"

pirate in

fair, an' while

an'

square

the

them

for

disobey orders,
more

said

I tell

sloop

"if there's any

time

head

west
running south-

looked

lolled

crew

what

David

ye. Buf

come

your

run

and

"

other.

sharp, lad,"

"and

told. We

bow.

footing.

look

voice,
fear

the

to

the starboard

Herriot

unkindly, the

not

have

and

earrings,who
the

must

clay pipe in

Herriot

uneven

"Now

Dave

deck,

on

go. It

to

on

Spaniard. Glancing

close

the

was

the

in

with

gruffly but

on

where

sun

wind.

beard

man

stumbled

close-hauled

was

west

most

saw

the

rail, a short

brown

bushy

and

dizzily

for

noon,

buccaneer

him, uncertain

Revenge
on

the

black

an' may

it,until

boy. Cap'n

ye

get

wants

BLACK

THE

scrambled

Jeremy
by
each

on

He

side

and

advanced

the

down
of Herriot's

gesture

BUCCANEER

the

at

one

pipe. There
end

knocked

and

of

told, in the Captain's clear voice,

Bonnet

Major
chairs

and

brace

of

arms,

which

in

stood

had

so

looked

the

on

pirates,could

black

face

cut, his

bow

and

intelligenteyes
of humor

"Well,
aboard

the
so

long

my

you

austere

was

you

ill with

clothes

might

stay aboard

and
as

thirsty
the bloodof

good
with

clean-shaven

preacher's,

Boston

forehead

the

this man's

tied behind

His

was

above
a

the

strange

wrinkles.

the cool

voice

long

the

his face,

were

broad, there

in its vertical

Revenge

for

boy, ignorant as he

The

like

high and

had
more

or

over

came

His

"

dozen

in all his life. As

although

lad," said

score

two

right.Jeremy gasped,

unpowdered.

and

"

of the

grayish hair neatly

worn

and

long

was

thought Jeremy
lack

He

fitted but

reputation he bore.

bunk,

swords.

help feeling that

quietlygentle appearance
quality and

several

one.

not

in the

table

were

frown

stern

up,

was

books

many

particularlymerry

of

case

and

containing half

and
pistols,

seen

never

Captain
never

passage.

open.

him

reading a book, evidently one

been

was

of small

small

last one,

to

door

was

good mahogany

Behind

cabin.

rack

four

guns,

he

the

of

middle

at

sat

the

this

at

cated
indi-

companionway

well

depends
32

from

way

make
on

last, "you're

at

the
your

your

ment,
settle-

best of it. How

behavior.

We

BLACK

THE

the

into

might put

BUCCANEER

about, I'd consider

like the

and

sea

leave

us

he

ashore.

But

for

room

if you
in

hand

tricks, you'll
forward

the

last words.

his knotted

gray

brows

boy's heart

than

either

the

the cruel

ters
cut-

no

leaned

pronounced

of the

face

that instant

For

nose.

are

try any

you

under

into

or

if there

the rail." He

eyes

terror

threat

Herriot's

the

in

deeper

broken

again, if

slightlyas

Something
struck

it, there's

to

feet first,over

"

hissed

and

setting you

take

fo'c's'le. Then

the

and

Chesapeake,

Bonnet

the

with

man

seemed

deadly

as

snake.

Jeremy
go.

The

he

ascended.

sailing-masterstood
"You'll

curtly. "Go
into

the

up

crowd
he

as

was

in the

town

know

where

to

round-shot
was

the

that

lay

could.
bare

piped

they

the

to

The

now."
the

the

ever

yellow sash
hundred

into
like

overside

firin' all the

time.

Cap'n

his teeth

and

sword

an'

roadway

an'

behind

boy slipped

the
so

and

pistolout,
him,
33

our

was

didn't

huts, an' those

much

grass

old
on

goes

"

Johnny

shore

his waist,

They

himself, with

Vane

with

man

at

trusively
unob-

as

Indians

landed.

we

remarked

windlass

mostly. Then

was,

was

for'ard," he

he said, "a

except

longboat

we

as

he

thick-set,bearded

plowed through

what

by the companionway

around

before
run

to

crew

speaking. "Ay,"

dead

bidden

bunk

with

hairy chest,

great

when

relieved

much

was

we
a

swearin'

our

which
Buck
went,

dirk
up

in

the

feet stickin' in blood.

BLACK

THE

few

herded

'em

an'

an'

the
and

sight and
not

got
it

for

was

on

for

white

Vane's

hard

was

beard, who
throat

old

wheeze

between

sentences.

that

nowt

day,
the

up

the whole

to

sea-dog with

our

Spaniards
34

He
a

fightoff
"We
could

crew

rupted
inter-

was

fringe

sparse

with

was

hatchway.

spoke

that

ended.

''That

the

by

and

story

told, an' that

worst."

'eighty,"he growled.

terin' Indians, but

the

said.

I'm

his

hoarsely

to

as

he

sprawled

his

of

All

same

clean

nuisance

spat

man,

of

one

villainous

was

into

neither.

to

way

and

cleared

spring

no

ha' been

must

nodded

Chance

by

"All

had

we

enough

further

go

left the

sheep. We

Then

mornin',

sober

in the town,

right,George Dunkin,"

day's work.

of

an'

to

rum

weeks."

Howland

*'Ye're

wanted

and

Come
us

to

corp',like

us.

made

place

gold

no

hogs

hot

the

of

man

an'

in

head.

up

we

red

was

fell, across

we

So

out

far gone

held

we

close

At

'em

arms

men

Indian

an

crew

was

island

Caribbean

the

the

few

come

Job

in

There

That

mess.

of

man

the island.
we

smell

sword
like

was

tuckered, every

clean

not,

as

we

while

burnin'

Our

ran.

but

us,

for cutlasses.

town,

slept where

and

dropped

we

they

stayed

never

the

day, but

that

shoulder

match

no

was

through

when

stickin' 'em

in

knives

slashin'

went

at

arrers

'em, yellin'all the time.

drove

their

quarters

their little

shootin'

out

come

BUCCANEER

He

deep

Panama

in the

weren't

slaugh-

fight,an'

did.

BLACK

THE

What's

they

more,

hundred

three

to

Harris,

black

whiff, shot

swingin' his
with

side

of that

most

full of

battle

tryin'to

we

our

scuppers

washin'

went,

an'

up

o' them

men

ship

one

the

decks
the

the

on

war

But

broke

Spaniard's

the

was

a-

Through

in bottoms

o'

of

out

leakin'

The

rest

sharks
that

of

out

ever

silver

we

from

could

the
swab

it

cost

hanged.

was

galleon

on

the last,six

we

o' their best

one

an'

v'yage, an'

than

half

When

an' their

men

eighty

"

before

was

us!

quarter

no

besides
pieces-of-eight,

men

left

we

took

we

bars

in

fifty
cord

that, lads!"

his forearm

"

the

an'

fair,stocky young

the

climb

boarded.

They asked

the

to

Sawkins

piles.Think

flew

ever

full of dead

was

good buccaneers

Isthmus.

thousand

saw

he

bloody lungs

day. Eh, but

an'

will I I

you

decks, give an' take. At

fed

more

Harris

in

legs, but

standin'

surrendered.

next

seas

red.

down

we

"

nigh

paddlin'

as

canoe

was

got aboard, their hold

we

both

and

holes, a-iirin' into the Biscayner's gun-

cheerin'

an'

ports,

and

when

rest

bullet

commander

through

cutlass

the

day's work, if

brave

as

barks

good

sixty-eightmen

our

was

Peter

three

were

men

Ah, that

canoes.

BUCCANEER

in, his eyes

from

deserter

bore

the

tattooed

British

anchor

service

the

gleaming greedily at

man-of"

thought

of

treasure.

"That
mind

old

was

Ben

in

Panama,"

New

Gasket

we

took
35

he

cried.

off Silver

Key

"Do
last

you
sum-

BLACK

THE

merl

Eighty

his life. He

Old

Panama

he

that there
there

an'

town,

The

with

man

with

there

silence

was

"Dollars

louis

"

one

man

rest

was

babes

was

thought

him

to
a

great

Brig's six-gun sloop

an'

his

Even

two

that the old

takin'

Brig

in

Calicut

to

it

"

to

sea

the

sticks

away

at

port

bold
the

dash

of

as

brass

prisoner

him

Indian

for

ransom.

an'

got

'em.

there,

ashore

an'

36

All

when

in under
an'

load

met

the

forts.

fought him, only

That

sure

Kidd

he

princessaboard

the

tail, him

turned

her

he

Sol

times

an'

bloody

sails fair

we

"

pullin'
blazin'

slip into

enough. Brig
maybe

was

where

was

man-o'-war

after, we'd

Weeks

speak.

to

said he. "There

he

ran

maybe

him

beggars. Billy

sloop, all

an'

arms

to

began

fightout, quick

o'

from

hairy

kidnappin'. Twenty

"

red

her,

he

day, but

out

an

in an'

quarter.

our

an'

in his

had

gold

out

turned

eye

as

Malabar,

off

gold

in the old
out

babes

devil

had

man

got his broad

worked

then

ha'

we'd

his

Brig

galleons,an'

great

then

Every

Solomon
"

took

stretched

doubloons^"

"

o'

raised himself

the deck

d'ors

Ben,

still,after they'd been

and

on

'em.

got

was

diamonds

nose

evil, leering yawn.

an

and

set

broken

place by the capstan

his

Old

I"

o' wealth

the

An'

of

sack

horse-loads

and

for

there
great

born.

hundred

two

the

at

was

us

it a-burnin'

Talk

month.

on

emeralds

pearls,rubies,

an'

marooned

Morgan

most

nigh

was

and

was,

with

was

before

there

said

he

old

years

half

BUCCANEER

some

would

hundred

get out,

you

stiff cuff

Yankee

on

swab!"
the

and

ear.

His

body.

Job
lean

level of the other's eyes.

evenly, "next

time

between

short

He

your
turned

forlornly
"
"

to

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

you

he

emphasized

Howland
face

"Pharaoh
touch

that

ribs. Remember

interposed
with

with

name

his

long
the

scowl

to

he

drawled

Daggs,"

lad, there'll be steel

I"

who, poor boy, was

utterlyand
"Here, young
'un," he said kindly,

Jeremy

seasick.

bent

the

the lee rail I"

38

CHAPTER

RIGHT

weather

summer

the

as

of

he

legs

that

wind

He

his
cabin

boy

threw

at

dice

the

the

of

way

as

Daggs,

loved

shrouds.
throat
to

young

as

the

he

Job
the

would

thought

island

shepherd

to

watch,

often

westward
there

stand

find

vanished.

his father's
the
In
39

sheep
a

winnings.
below

went

from

region

sunset

sight

on

for

desolate

of

taut

in

lump

anguish
uncared

As

the

through
a

of

out

nose.

in the

with

they

as

keeping

deck

the

fore-deck,

broken

on

his

set

crew,

usually

the

manded
de-

intervals

their

comfort

took

to

the

thus

with

man

port

of

but

and

the

over

Howland,

wheeling

stars

He

noisily

gulls.

Captain

long

of

the

of

offshore

of

ruffians

sea-

free, salt

sparkle

times
the

new

his

the

the

corner

watch,

no

the

in

was

midnight, Jeremy

his

in

dressed

to

time

In

found

the

for

his

to

blue

of

meal

at

morning.

quarrelled

or

same

Howland
to

gayly

assigned

was

only

in the

the

the

himself,

inconspicuous

sat,

watching

He

services

ward.
south-

in

pleasure

rigging,

to

smartly

he

as

circling whiteness
much

in order

and

day

to

tic
Atlan-

accustomed

more

great

the

in

the

left

was

take

to

sang

swells, and

day

the

over

ploughed

grew

life from

began

hovered

Revenge

Jeremy
manner

VII

his

ing
return-

and
as

the

that,

BLACK

THE

that

he knew

keep
But

find

with

cloth

blue

in his

poke.

could

in the

Sometimes

give
of

him

ropes

lessons
and

spars

boy
her

his trick
even

day,

hand

as

had

as

wheel

grown

when
man

the calm
the craft
land

point

it

was

could

each
the

steer

to

This

beam

free

have

fitted

was

held

along, her
and

mainsail
her

head

west.

40

touched

would

him

the

was

used.

ship

names

when
task

with

learned

The
Job
for

all of

massive

that

seaway,

just drawing
held

then.

Job

lashings.Of

it in

him

and

now

wood

of

of its

turned

sloop, like

Jeremy. The
but

have

small

no

was

nights Jeremy

summer

breeze,

how

hat,

gold guineas

watch.

teach

"

he

in sailor's

cocked

he
had

sea

of the

show

curved

tiller,a great

amazingly
no

and

strong
no

the

Perhaps

hundred

He

that

reunion

and

would

seamanship

the helm.

at

cloak

hours

delight was

boy's greatest
took

in

long.

the door

flightof fancy

long

for

fairly shivered

to

up

worlds

pirate fire

return.

and

of

help

to

the

grand

should

in his belt

not

the

seaman's

romance

he

and

marching

for

of

unhappy

soon,

he

Not

the

pirate, but
he

with

cutlass

pistoland

be

planned

himself

imagined

ashes

them

for

yet lived.

not

place when

take

even

he

as

the

he

home

his way

delight

would

could

boy

conclusion

one

find

that

hope

up

the

would

and

but

was

Still,they might

reach.
and

there

BUCCANEER

kicked
course,

but
to

ing
dur-

humor

in the

tle
gen-

steadily south,

BLACK

THE

One

"

and

capture,
both

on

about

the

her

middle

to

of

ahead.

with

port

They

drew

time

the

by the
anchor

in

anchor

down
men

started

of

men

the starboard

There
you

be

farms

come

may

watch,
here

near

be

will

across

paint-pot and

on

deck

The
in

and

keep

and

ashore

pigs

any

welcome.

of the boats.

blankly
"Hm,"
clean

after

The

remainder

retreatingBill

the

"

the

Job,

and

as

"has

Herriot
41

rest

an'

of the

age.
for-

fowls

or

lantern

All

me.

tide.

to

Bill

You,

lookout, alow

double

murmured

crazy?"

aft with

the

he said, "take

go

and

bling
rum-

sailing-master

ers,"
Liv-

and
stay

aloft!"

the beach

slipped quietly off toward

forage party
one

come

and

idly on
the

cast

sloop, her

The

addressing the ship'spainter,"take

your

to

forward,

came

"George Dunkin,"

give orders.

to

shore

of

ready

himself.

clearlymystified as

were

to

soundings, and

were

sails furled, swung

and

went

line

bushy eyebrows,
to

Job

set

Jeremy

sandy bay. Herriot

oath

He

white

the

see

his

Curley, the

below.

abeam.

changed

under

deck

on

taking the tiller,swung

himself

watch

bits of land

told

go

Jeremy's

came

in, steeringby Job's

occasional

an

might

could

small

scowling darkly

ten

he

the wind

he

and

watch

the

after

Herriot

Dave

"

mate,

where

bows

The

day

week

sighting low

been

soundings and,

over

the

had

all

second

take

perhaps

was

they

bows

Jamaican
to

it

night

BUCCANEER

crew

looked

Livers.
Stede

let the

Bonnet

painter

gone
down

BLACK

THE

the

over

bulwark

her

change

before

and

of

was

gloom hung
again,

sea

the

peering

outboard,

likewise

did

down

beheld

in the fo'c's'le council

Revenge
There

crew.

the

later

cast

an

eye

Jonah

was

The
have

bay
been

Island,

at

enough

to

where

have

this

leaned
emy
Jer-

stern.

letters
Next

on

day
of

renaming

the

over

disaster^-of
ors
of all sail-

dread
never

back

come

new

would

name

her. Pharaoh

and

growled

aboard,

way," while

Daggs
that

without
the

or

"one
clean

looked

crew

uneasily in their places.

they

somewhere

favorite

with

Jeremy

to

unfailing.Sooner

was

given

crew

of hatred

shifted

and

been

her

all the luck

drownin'
black

had

rule

of

tales

ships that

of

the

the

sort

out

and

white

that

she stole

apprehension

fire,and

and

fate

that

grief and

to

come

ship

of

pall

raised.

aft

why

learned

and

by swearing.

was

new

peared
ap-

matter

Royal James.

low-muttered

were

Apparently

port.

he

cast

unknown

the

"

to

had

shipwreck,

storm,

in

to

turned,
re-

Herriot

failure

went

one,

goin'

longboat

the broad, squat

at

and

the

ship.As

of the hull, the words

the black

the

their

by

one

men,

I"

weightier

the whole

over

Whale

the anchor

singing as

no

he's

of

crew

some

notice

to

"Ay,

empty-handed.

with

preoccupied

"

Bull

the

dawn

scarcely deigned

stern

the great

by

grumbling

There

the

at

name,

hour

An

BUCCANEER

had

anchored
the

on

eastern

overnight
end

landing place for piratesat

42

of

must

Long

that time.

THE

All

day they cruised

The

seemed

men

settled

the

that
He

told

lander

man

"There'll

be

he

chance

to

who

saw

the

stand

Pharaoh

and

than

of

set

took

the

never

usual
un-

any

face
sort.

some

tall New

Eng-

boy

another

before

crew

never

strain

had

thing

his gray,

from

and

seen

handspikes, you
out.

cabin,

of him

more

shore.
that

gloom

in his

sat

terrible

in this

mutiny

clear

off the

thoughtful. He

very

to

comes

hilly southern

drinking hard,

had

whispered. "They'll

If it

Bonnet

under

what

looked

cast

hands, realized
was

Job

to

Stede

Jeremy,

foremast

the

along

deck, and

on

for him.
of the

BUCCANEER

unable

them.

upon

coming

once

he

BLACK

aside.

night,"

for what

he's done.

I'd best

watch

don't

Daggs

love

our

us

mite."
But

the

before

noon

in the
riot

with

mutiny

bows,

re-echoed
a

day

next

destined

was

gave

the

the

loud

not

to

occur.

An

hour

lookout, constantly stationed

"Sail

ho!"

shout, all hands

rush.

43

and

as

tumbled

Dave
on

Herdeck

CHAPTER
pirate sloop

THE

As

sail, the

tall-masted,
who

had

come

cool

self

as

and

speaking

had

the

the

her

out

sees

out

us

now,

be

'Twill
Aboard
ants,

he

the

in

gunners

he

heard

boy,
him

from

cased

lockers

were

placed

for

the

and

behind

can

'tis harder

the

see

ing
shak-

be

to

seem

to

shine

sun

five

in

the

above

"

sixteen

in

all.

I"
the

James

the

can

"I

saying.

was

more

seems

below

fettle

round-shot

side

three

three

Royal

preparing
The

errand

guns,

now

two

"

fight,it

of

glass.
spy-

tier, and

port

his

sort

think, for they

lower

net,
Bon-

seemed

through

as

many

Ah,
.

broad-side

her

and

Major

warning,

Captain's

how

flag; but

topsail

ily
stead-

became

laden.

enemy

detailed

been
at

first

British, right enough,"

tell. She

on

conned

full

Herriot.

to

"She's
make

he

under

brig, high-pooped,

the

at

up

stood

he

as

was

ship

apparently deeply

and

Jeremy

other

the

She

southward

raced

of

form

plainer.

old

VIII

battle.

Every

swabbers

were

Others

decks.
hold
the

and

in

44

were

man

the

like

slaving

ties.
his du-

knew

putting their
were

tubs

non
can-

rolling
in

storing powder
Great

guns.

conveniently

men

of

sea

'tween-decks

out

ironwater

and

BLACK

THE

the

came

their

fashion, but

places by

be taken

to

efforts

hard

bulkhead
each

who

the

in

Jeremy

sent

Job

was

from

the

Rowland

the

confusion

than

at

was

on

the black
Job

was

in

deck

"Here,
shot

in

at

o' yon

he

was

gunner

the

his services

closed

since

ramming
his

bow

the
men

agility

There

The

port

but

by.

scream

aboard

man

much

in

bustle

surprisinglylittle
better

discipline seemed
had

the

and

side

one

was

the

as

gunners,
to

the

to

ports

been

the

boy

the

wad

home

on

The

other

four

gun.

being

were

tending

men

half

brought

aboard

sloop.

powder
port

the

time

for

that the

see

the

help

to

continued

apparent.

was

any

below

merchantman

alley behind

charge

strength and

some

call his friend.

that he could

the

jumping carriages.

lent

boy naturally

to

their

against the

sometimes

it is easy

ropes,

Despite

back

it. As

carried

needed

of these

side.

leap

shatter

be

to

guns

the

shot

as

had

getting past

the ends

sometimes
to

in

kept

were

action, the recoil had

held

ship by hand,

the

served

In

and

in the vessel's

enough

reloading

length of

out

who

men

would

the gun

trucks

on

tackles.

rope

by

up

ran

through pulleys

rove

BUCCANEER

each

tub

at

the

charge
in

guns

of

the

time, three

same

one.

lad," sang
the

loaded

the

out

muzzle,
an' stand

bid, then

got

Job,
"take

by

to

out

46

as

one

he put
o' the

the
wet

single iron
blankets

fightsparks."Jeremy
of

the

way

as

the

did

ports

BLACK

THE

flung open

were

bronze

evil

The

had

the guns

and

thrust

noses

into

out

drawn

merchant

abreast

the

and

she

"Ready

mark

with

the

his

spoke

gun

I"

of

bare

Jeremy

black

jarred. Thick
had

ports

safety. The
him

and

find
found

out

back

whether
the

north

giving

sloop
still

heel

deck

to

his gunners

when

windward
more

47

to

shot
he

of
time

ship

whole

to

was

alleyway,

under

starboard

them

caught
above

sent

to

effect, he

taken

load

for

in greater

reload

and

pieces.

body

was

the enemy.
to

in

fired simultaneously

been

was

about

feet

good
all five

on,

had

had

broadside
come

to

his six-

Instantly the

in the

hung

but

had

ing
offer-

blazing

two

the
his

and

first that

the

they

in order

felt the
at

so

shaken

have

closed

waterline,

that

driving
was

thought

the

under

boy

wind,

ringing

and

the tackle.

Had

smoke

been

the
bows

the word

and

half-deafened,

was

into

Rowland's

at

next

seconds.

ten

to

crews

Bonnet's

came

Job

of

the

and

ship

out-

pirate.

touch-hole

they might

the

abeam,

his gun

flapping,her

against the strainingropes

space

wind

the

spare

of

"Fire!"

"

the

to

head

broadside

then

went

to

pounder, roaring merrily, jumped

next

sunlight.

unwieldy adversary. The

canvas

to

port

and

match

the

put

stood, with

steady

order,

unable

being

sails, had

their

captain, apparently, finding himself

speeded
where

of her

with

forward,

run

sloop, running swiftly

now

trim

BUCCANEER

already
Bonnet

by running

BLACK

THE

back

the

riot had
he

forth

and

her

the

to

smoke

the

and

chains.

Below

in the

the

pieces, heard

shook

the

to

about

"we'll

him

show

The
close

tack.

brig'sforesail

cheers.

the

starboard

I Wind

cried

an'

The

sloop

battery
she

when

it ceased

under

sweating by

with

"Hurrah,"

showed

traps

open

below,

"Ready

off

and

Job's

water

I"

was

intermittent
taken

came

mates,

wind

"

an'

crash

in her

gave

the

the deck

the

shot

had

planking

from

two

great

entered
to

guns

bits and

to

one

after

48

killed

to

had

deliver

voice, cool
the

answered
cannon

lay
in

of the port,

strikingdown

the

on

the

outright and

splinter wound
side

long,

brig

the wind

to

came

and

The

of the middle

crew

pitiablestate,

bleeding

gunner

head.

in

four

and

jumped

Bonnet's

Stede

waves.

command

water.

fallingoff

order

brig'sdischarge.The

the

the

of

splinteringwood

turn.

own

the

of

tall side

gunner

every

over

of her

the

trough

Before

of

came

advantage

ever,

and

swirling past

seas

swells

in the

in hand.

roar

broadside

the

across

the order

came

fire there

the green

swaying

the breech, match

as

of
had

this time

the merchantman

the

I"

water

to

of

splintered hole

news

hardly

other

the

on

Jeremy's question

the buccaneers,

jarring report

later, and

moment

from

deck

gun

to

in response

issued

alternately.Her-

batteries

flutteringrags

that

bow

their

using his

and

tiller and

pointed

BUCCANEER

the

ing
teartwo

THE

forward

blaze

wounded

the

had

on

high

as

for

'Twas

now.

that

as

last shot

my

the

the

that

brig. Her

sloop, had
her

as

she

leakin'

She's

her

righton

miss.

to

side, and

there!
"

board,
free-

offered

hard

was

"See

did

and

shot of the last

the

along

shouted,

out

stamp

dropped,

every

of

all

Jeremy

pirates dragged

gunners

showed

to

been

aboard

expert

swell. Job

in time

the

of

one

damage

Jagged openings
rose

his blanket

fo'c's'le.

iiring-matchhad

done

which

target

the

his berth. Almost

to

twice
a

into

of

help
man

volley

passed
with

where
the

with

BUCCANEER

had

gun-servers,

jumped

BLACK

water-

me

hands

"All

almost
the
the

the

at

wind,

the

her I"

Jeremy

boat's

dozen

came

hurrying

shout,

up

with

straightbefore

down

sloop bearing

only

and

board

to

instant.

same

found

rest

deck

on

lengths

from

the

enemy.
wild

had

man

whoop
seized

on

the rail. Bonnet

blowing

coat

sword.
or

up

to

an

effective

James,

restinglightlyon

her

the

She

bombardment.
ribbons

sails had
49

brig'sbatteries

of

badly shot

too

crew

was

canvas

suffered

his

overhead

screamed

Apparently
and

deck, his buff

open

shot

cannon

tattered

whose

the

on

pirates.Every

crouching behind

was

his hand

greatly damaged

offer

and

stood

astern.

helplessly under
Royal

and

open

the

among

musket

occasional

An

too

up

alone

splashed away

were

went

far

drifting
and

the

less, bore

BLACK

THE

down

her

upon

As

she

small

arms

one

close

broke

Then

bow

on

and

almost

the

ships

rail. Job

had

the

pirateswas
and

which

the

upon

him

to

repel

entire

of the

crew

the

deck, where
seemed

of

full of
hiss

close

of

and

quarters

groans,

the

brig had

wild

as

flash

toward,

the

took

He

put

the

hail

terrible
been

well

too

the

and

enemy's
boat-

great

inferno

there

was

bellowed

had
now

that

clangor. Pistols

and

of

was

thickness
bullets

of
and

scene

above.

much

disorganized

scrambled

held

to

her

The

sway.

produced

the

and

an

air

sant
inces-

banged deafeningly
the

oaths.

50

the

they might,

as

flyingcutlasses

cries and

like

by side,

man

barbarians

perfect

and

Bonnet's

to

was

over

lay

drifting apart. Jeremy

and

at

boarders

horde

another

from

peered fearfully out

The

side

swarming

sloop's deck.

between

mast

what

and

they grappled the brig'sports

vessels

two

together

withering

the head

sloop about

held

distant.

length

exposed

realized

Jeremy

Rowland

by

was

his

brought

bumped
of

hooks, with

the

that her deck

striking

buccaneers

ship with

down

of

wounding

part

boat's

the

swept

most

The
a

brig was

before

the

hawk.

fusillade

brig'spoop,

for

scarce

they

so

mob

howling

alone

were

Herriot

marksmen.

the

but

of

swoop

scattered

bulwark.

the

volley. The

almost

kept

they

the order

at

musket

till

the

from

Portuguese,

hre

aboard

out

harmlessly against
their

with

opponent

drew

man,

BUCCANEER

constant

Above

undertone
the din

came

at

THE

BLACK

the terrible, clear

seadogs. He
cool

the

and

three

the

His

behind.

Bonnet's

as

stealthilyas

to

safer

cat's

wearily
flaxen-haired

man

burst

in his

groups
form

of

the

path

gave

Herriot

Dave

of

great
been

for

of

the

with

physique
fair share

as

he

run

had

the

to

and

the hatch

from

such
to

way

opposed

effect that

the

the

side.
new

of

the

battling

The

burly
and

enemy

sword,

ringing on
himself

and

to

better

able
Anglo-Saxon's unquench-

the

board

huge,

was

no

man
swords-

mean

type

and

well, but his previous labors

on

ing
fight-

the deck

to

either

leaped

third

confidence, when

to

up

after-house.

the

ready seaman's

and

rough

flash, then,

had

second

down,

fight.Herriot

fair

the first man

a

sailor raised

wounded

one

position,grinning
love

in

giants squared off, sword

two

than

more

cutlass

to

out,

quickly,shiftingground

were

without

sword

ferocity of

who

man

his back

and

his broad

swung

and

position with

nate,
incar-

in and

and

turn

moved

of his opponents

Two

as

feet

devil

swift

played

sword

whirling swiftly, pinned

From

fighting single-handed

the left with

to

the

him,

ment
mo-

deck.

aflame, and

eyes

with

long

to

his

on

the

from

man

changed

stabbed

men.

right and

had

saw

urging

merchantman's

distorted,

lightning. Jeremy
with

the

he

Bonnet,

different

touched

face

hacked

of Stede

become

commander

with

that

voice

had

his foot

BUCCANEER

and

defenders

51

had
"

"

had
he had

already accounted
had

rendered

him

THE

slow

and

pool

suddenly

of blood.

and

blond

he

lay stunned,

head-cloth.

As

the

his

caught
the

time

same

the

cutlass

of

pitilesseyes
and

last opponent

he

might,

him

back

back.

in the fear

man

found

to

with

dying

gasp

caught

the

had

rail, he

his

That
hack

and

fell

and

drove

stood
the

his sword

flew

into

fell backward

his

sweat

the throat

through

limp body

killed

point

glisteningwith

him

by

in midair

the

Then

faced

life.

Swing

Forced

at

arm.

himself
who

posed,
inter-

and

parry

relentless

to

the

to

stepped forward

always the

of death.

the

off Her-

staining his

red

his mate's

save

were

pirate captain stabbed

the

buccaneer

upward

an

ground desperately,pale and

of

huge

baffled the sailor.

his blows

and

glanced

Bonnet,

in

harmless, while

away

that

painfully in

Steve
run

his advantage

man

seaman

quick,darting sword
as

in

him

the

back

Jumping

seized

long, keen, straightblade

pinked

backward

quick

blond-haired

finish the business,

to

the

to

slipped

seaman

the

felled

and

where

deck

foot

slicingblow

riot's forehead,

his

as

The

swung

ready parrying, blade

The

arm-weary.

blade, ceased
in

BUCCANEER

BLACK

up,
and

the

sea.

Meanwhile
in the hand
brave
to

and

the
to

fellows

back.

The

seeing

hand

held

pirates had
struggle and

steadily gained ground

now

fightingsingly or

on,

crew

in

fair way

52

in

pairs,back

in several

brig'scaptain,wounded
his

half-dozen

bare

to

be

places

annihilated,

BLACK

THE

laughter.The

off in crazy
him

the

on

he
Job

brig's deck

could

Jeremy
gave

and

Rowland's
of

hand
water

of the

men

would
closed

54

by

his

words.

in his

surprise.Suddenly

have

cried

his mouth.

separated

enemy.

about

stood

crew

dumbfounded

hardly breathe

start

lane

BUCCANEER

the

out

sloop

but

that

ening
swiftly widfrom

her

late

s
o
w

X
h

h
"
"

"

CHAPTER

cleared

SHE

the
the

smartly

away

aft

Jeremy

partially

screened

have

been

shot

had

sloop

drawn

of

quarter

left

with

tack.

hand.

effort

any

brig.

of
if

Few

they might

or

As

it
of

the

was,

nearly

made

was

tiller,

howl

distance

the

when

went

dragged

at

the

of

to

before

had

huddled

out

move.

she

and

Job

still loaded,

were

to

chantman,
mer-

flapping during

bang

aboard

out

away

mile

began

mainsail,

death,

to

been

were

the

by

firearms

the

of

two

broke

consternation
any

the

and

had

waterlogged

James

starboard

the

on

the

of

Royal

filled

fighting, now

close

side

sails, which

Her
the

IX

to

stop

her.
Then

whizzed
next

cannon

along

the

came,

Jeremy

by
report

far

They

astern.

The

two

give

chase

that

momentary

graceless
that

they

at

pang

crowd

had

in

the

of

was

could

the

such

round

shot

When

the

waves.

the

see

splash

fall

range.

felt

brig

if she

even

could

now

the

the

of

tops

out

were

and

roared

runaways

certain

was

single

keep

jeopardy,

SS

badly

damaged

afloat.

Jeremy

too

thought

brig's boats

safe.

comparatively

in

of

leaving

but
which

he

even

It
to

felt
that

remembered
to

leave

the

THE

hulk, and

his

to

him.

occupy

set

work

to

other

than

his

of

brandy. Then

to

get

The

short

lay
and

up

New

dead

which

in agony

in his

given

Englander

sluiced

men

each

was

both

without

for

prayer

who

Jeremy

three

the

at

they

overboard

slipped

"

enough

lanyard

the deck.

lank

meal, while

the

to

flag.Then

bound

the

him

gave

the black

gunner

wound

soon

going

the

The

repeated.
had

berth

below

went

the gun

sip

decks

with

deck

with

water.

sea

Night
biscuit

fallingwhen

was

beans

and

locker.
he

what

the

had

the

pipe

after

then

addressed

seemed

back
a

at

fine

independent
so

maybe

fine

"

the

little

the

boy

began,

"since

age

upstandin'
an'
not

five years

with
trade

adventurous

o'

rough

we

picked

to

you

I'd

chance.
when

me

up,

what

more,

another

clay

an'

"One

I've

give

Piratin'

begun,

it seemed.

paused.

livin'

56

filled

He

at

hesitancy.

queer

too,

fine I" He

so

after

meditatively awhile,

an'

more

tain's
Cap-

quite elated

shore.

to

the

his tall friend

seemed

smoked

day,

your

day, but

with

of

appetite in Jeremy

and

voyage

on

out

preserves

relish

and

every

reappeared

that

meal

he

thinkin'

be

some

was

with
of

"Sonny,"

Job

witnessed

prospect

been

and

There

his supper

ate

not

burial

sea

ceremony

Jeremy

to

down

cleaning up

given

were

danger

the tiller and

hauled

mainmast,

BUCCANEER

present

own

lashed

Job

BLACK

But
or

two

"

it's
or

rougher fightin',

THE
a

powerful

end

chains

death

shootin'

by

Execution

on

Dock."

get

Governor's

nought

to

You're

after

in God.
livin'

Do

like

always

Job

trust

face.

straightforwardly, and
gripped

it with

and

see

himself.

here

solemnly
cross

Til

drew
the

skin

sign

that

pirate

never

you

himself

he

would

answered

The

that
at

the

into

hand.

his

out

more

he

man

in

he, "is for

pickle

his

of

me.

that

"Ay,"

smile

trouble

looked

felt

He

can

mean

square

boy

out

put

the

small

said

"That,"
this

he

can

of fierce eagerness

sort

smiled

Then

pricked

man

Rowland.

to

what's

an'

lived *?" The

anxious

'twould

back

came

figgera

you

I've

pirate's homely,

days

"Lad,

"

the

or

followed

pause

Jeremy

to

you're honest

an'

young

believe

old

starvation,

or

ashore, but

pardon

if my

me

such, an' in the

an'

Another

then, turning suddenly

and

to

in drink

o' money

waste

dog's

"

BUCCANEER

BLACK

man

good

was

with

peace

clasp-knifeand

of

his

forearm.

I get

once

free-trade

nor

o'

out

no

more."

The

wind
and

friend

turn

When

to

Jeremy

settled

wakened
his

sank

at

find Job

at

the

the

as

the darkness

first watch

while

deep sleep that lasted

after

midnight.

Then

ered
gath-

his tired

till he

the

boy

was

took

sleeping.

the

to

into

breath

mere

stood

little

morning lightshone

pacing

sky. The

the deck

wind

was

and
dead

57

into his eyes

he woke

casting troubled
and

only

an

looks

occasional

THE

whiff

of

tiny

swell

light air

this

for

made

progress

no

below.
The

effort
had

sky

adventures

by the

The
the
he

that

it
lad

quiet

on

leaving

boy's head
deck.

and
but

trying
climbed

coming

on

sign

no

of

that Job

so

any

made

bearings.They figured that

more

sea-miles

the

to

west

off the little

lying somewhere

Job

sank

Drowsiness

slept before

he

amusing

old

again.

sleep, the

out,

snack."

Job

noon

overcast

or

were

roused

was

was

died

and

them

stars

their

night, we've

York.

day passed,

He

and

dozen

east,

up.

the rather

to

About

the

to

dull

was

drifted

overtaken

with

sail

came

have

we'll

reconnaissance

at

porridge cooked

some

an'

breeze.

determine

to

of New

The

deck

on

for

the battle, and

port

nap.

for

masthead

The

his

it

finished, they turned

wind.

since

all. I've got

shore

toward

Jeremy

as

canvas.

cradle.

sailin' last

meal

reported

they

hours

bring

down

no

three

as

far

get

cheerfully

at

waiting

the

gently

as

won't

we

maybe

idly swinging

You

of

task

sloop

Job

gait," said

"Except

to

the

boy,

my

the

moved

rocked

"Well,

BUCCANEER

BLACK

sea-yarns

This

take

to

time

with

Jeremy
and

the

went

to

when

the

sea,

and

perfect calm.
on

his breast

had
knew

overcome

he

58

was

by
even

There
and

him

Job

still

the

was

sleepy.

saw

thing
Every-

swell
no

softly he
so

had

yawning

rail.

the

of

the first

had

boy

his watch

stand

night

soon

eight bells, and,

was

tales

had

moon.

slid

gently

to

that

THE

lubber

young

the

BLACK

to

consciousness

The

back

the

of

the

to

been

stories

for

he

torture,

lad

him?

to

was

pirateshad

seized

have

short

his first

on

him
the

Bonnet
of
if

Ah,

with

awful

only they
die

There

that

men

dozen

aboard

day

shudder.

dealt

that he could

thought

been

back.

Jeremy's numb

that the

among

Which

scion of dauntless
have

his

upon

To

made

and

Stede

treacherous.
store

lay

away.

Captain

current

how

of

glimpse

went

fiercelyas

swore

again.

words

came

in

still

the realization

came

them

caught

and

man

move,

later the bo's'n

moment

were

the

I" roared

boy, unable

had

BUCCANEER

gave

those

who

deaths

was

would

the

spare

bravely,a worthy

stock. He

thought

in his bunk

below.

happiness in

his

who

of Job
The

poor

changed

must

fellow
of life,

way

it seemed.

Jeremy
was

stoic. He

young

and

just

God

in the

able

to

hold

Time

had

next

his head

deck. He

arm-pits and
weak

surrounded

to

Instead

was

done

going
to

was

pieces

the attitude

which

nothing of

if he

to

up

he

like

heard
hoisted

called

to

he

was

face

be

man.

heavy

tramp

roughly by

upon

his feet,

without

support.

him, glaring angrily.Out

60

he

test

twenty-four hours, he would

placed
stand

of

forcinghimself

felt that

he

passed, and

along the
still too

in

against the

nerves

soon.

he succeeded

ashamed,

his

steel his

to

follow

must

sure

in terror,
of

tried

hands

though

of

A
a

dozen
sort

coming
under
he

was

faces
of mist

THE

the

of

The

the

and

speech more

and

like the

kept

friends

was

to

friends?

yer

we

in

this

At

to

dog

white

with

such

treat

cowardly
fed

mates'?

an'

curs

moment

of the fo'c's'le

land

in their

midst.

under-breeches

and

in the

head

tied

that

in

up

preparations

for

been

sinkin'

"

show

we'll

buccaneer

ten-gun

party

of

How-

hatch, dragging Job

was

stripped to

his shirt and

of

some

while

the

bandage,

nose.

was

punishment.

few
mentarily
mo-

neers
bucca-

the young

gingerly feelingof
his

piratespoured

apparently received
below.
Jeremy's spiritswere

was

had

on

now,

like inconveniences,

suffered

treat

ye

I"

by seeing that

ex-man-o'-war's-man
blob

do

had

tussle

revived
had

"an'

him

second

He

"

we

cowardly dog I"

now"
Daggs'

"An'

aboard

keel-haul

to

how

of

son

We

more,

drown

or

there

"so
are.

What's

ye.

anger.

swearing out

bruises

his slow

ye

spawn

An'

starve

snarl

sudden

by, mates,

Stand

eh,
'em

off like

broke

ye how

make

to

mouth

ugliness.

fool," he said,

and

ye,

you,

Leave

shipI Sneak
Jeremy went
voice

twisted

deliberate

seemed

misbegotten young

ye

ye,

The

terrible leer

deadly.

stand, scared

took

with

of oaths

the

came

nose.

spoke

man

absence

very

"Ah,

the broken

with

man

opened

ye

his vision

partly obscured

that

BUCCANEER

BLACK

less
shape-

Herriot, his

Dave

superintending
"Let's

have

the

the

boy

first,"he shouted.
Aboard

keel-haulingwas
square-rigger,
6i

practiced

the main

from

They

in

similar
of

He

way.

circled

that

hemp

further

Without
two,

the

crew

to

pull

the

lad

wordless

As

of

wrench

The
he

the

broke

him

dead

stood

There

looked.

trembling, but

and
eyes.

He

thrust

held

into

closed,

his

in

loop

along

arms

in

of the

part

ring

with

pistolin

to

line,

that

on

his

his face

voice

head

and

ashen

gray

fire in his sunken

and

hand
Not

waist-band.

came.

never

haul

venomous

each

and

teeth

high-pitched

Bonnet,

ready

rope,

his

set

turned

Jeremy

Stede

the

at

kick

parting

ankles

starts

man

I"

half-

his heart.
his

at

rope

under

his wrists
a

He

from

up

the

quiet. "If

I'll shoot

places

destruction.

his eyes

with

lay

their

went

prayer

only

feet

than

other

ceremony

to

had

ship'smiddle.

the

took

or

his

fast

practicallymade

was

side,

still in

direction, bound

other

other

rope

then, stretchinghis

the rope,

the

in

deck

the

of

end

one

the

together amidships.

ends

made

and

fainting condition

run

pletely
com-

over

sloop

boy forward,

the

dragged

the

merely

bringing both

now

the

on

up

sails, they had

bottom,

the

scraping

living. As

than

dead

aft

and

fore

drawn

and

dragged

was

ship's bottom,

the

jagged barnacles,
often

victim

The

yardarm.

under

more

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

man

two

were

more

stirred

in

the

crew.

"That
in the

boy,"

went

business, and

on

well

the clear
you

62

know

voice, "had

no

it. It is for

hand
me

to

THE

I shall be

and, by God,

Daggs,

forward

step

the

broken

for

steady

and

he

obeyed with

time

to

as

the

the

They

had

Stede

crossed

arms

"Herriot,"

the

down

he

the

awoke,

the

cool

got

greater
the

crew

Bonnet

evenly,

had
man

had

of

their

cruel

at

of

with

amidships

each
the

set

We'll

his
fist.
men

start

once."
as

best

he

might

twenty-four hours.

just finished
by

sport.

there, but

and

"better

along

chuckle.

mocking

then

had

breeze

chopped
a

ran

faintest

no

repairing damage.

his bunk
part

out

over

crew

calm-looking pistol in

and

to

foremost

waves

stood

ever,

head

in

turned

He

dawn

like

broken

remarked

coast

little

Just

swaying.

up

astonished

At

shifted

ated,
Jeremy, liber-

after him, but

sound

as

The

tain's
Cap-

pistol muzzle

behind.

buccaneers

have

decks

sitting, every

pieces.

Jersey

Jeremy
for

with

and

cleaning

to

the

might

Bonnet,

stared

now

robbed

Mutiny

dive.

man

the

on

sailor's eyes

stood

feet

appeared.

the ports

below

the

vanish

clean

man

and

up

sprung

long

Bonnet's

reluctance.

Rowland

I" The

light eyes

and

of

the side and

cursing to
of

sullen

rush

Job
a

his

Then

his knees

was

rail in

trace

to

see

fixed

sloop,

life. Pharaoh

my

the rope

unloose

rock.

as

there

and

of this

Captain

am

five seconds.

was

climbed

Captain during

nose

full

then

BUCCANEER

while

punishments

give out

with

BLACK

himself,

divided

63

the

and

slept
he

When

breakfast

and

were

counting

out

gold

booty

found

on

the

for

time

the

least, utterly oblivious

at

When

he

got

breakfast, Jeremy
if

as

and

night
bore

ugly
a

real

for

in

most

galley

the

by having

boats.

his

and

Jeremy

under

had

been

boy

aside

to

Daggs

feelings were
of

mask

row

Pharaoh

Only

for

treated

or

there

punish

to

concealed

part

the

to

content.
dis-

former

his fellows

occasioned
open

pirates were,
to

Indeed,

wishing

toward

malice

the

for

temper

day

went

ignored by
occurred.

ground

the

from

and

up

was

had

nothing

little real

the

greedy satisfaction

in their

brig and

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

temptuous
con-

indifference.
As

their

resumed

accustomed

immediate

no

co-partner

in

overboard

jumping

awful

of

torture

Captain
sailor
All

as

would

the

done

sloop made

in the

she

and
up

the

ran

her

Delaware

first
slim

with

the

south

white

beaches

in past

the

64

at

to

boom

Cape

swung

the

him

The

runaway

brisk

went

May,
into

rate,

starboard.
over

heading

hurrying tide, while

brig'slongboat, towing behind,

astern.

her

Job's

certain.

was

her way

dog-watch

nose

that

death.

worse

defended

and

brother, but

probably spared
some

in

was

friend

thought

Jeremy, the boy

occasionallysighting low,
Sometime

or

have

never

he had

day

had

keel

the

the

with

himself

been

had

if he

bitterly as

as

he

his brave

missed

had

matters

that

and

course

He

danger.

partiallyconsoled
act

that

day progressed the lad found

the

her

the
wake

CHAPTER

the

HEN

hatch

Job

leaped
of

the

bay

several

for
of

path
close.

he

had

been

not

muzzle

in

heavy

butt,

This

much

wound,

trigger only

so

enough
for

less

had

free

weight
seized
Job

into

play,
of

him

was

the
and

out

and
of

out

assailants

broken

It

find

to

soon

that

he

bore

When

he
him
and

66

the

ceased
to

much

only
too

forward
the

at

weapon

the

fiercely with

the

after

time.

buccaneers,
for

down
to

the

arm

who

bullet

fists

jammed

They

tireless

him

at

crew

grasped

over.

his

then

carried

him

closer, striking with

was

breath

that

than

crown

and

corner

behind

time

the

first,but

at

in closer

numbers.
fast

his

end

jumped

struck

off

forward

approaching

desperation

and

beating

pressed

far

In

hand

marline-spikes.

and
him

his

of

half-dozen

loaded.

well

was

cared

the

pulled

had

maddened

wary

ing,
warn-

awake,

pistol,covering

them

made

of

Intrenching

went.

bulkhead
the

kept

the

he

the

The

finally,a

When,

once,

had

moments.

attack,

made

tumbled

cry

barely

that

with

had

Jeremy's

pistol as

chest,

sides, he

both

on

after

angle

narrow

behind

buccaneers

Howland,

fo'c's'le, seizing

himself
and

the

to

of

gang

the

down

XI

no

longer
sheer

under

struggle they
deck.

bruised

but

had

THE
to

sea

have

certainly
he

it was,

clung

empty

hot
the

for

slipped as quietly as

he

the

forward

bow-thwart.

The

these

and

retreated

the

the

was

what

knew

of

His

and

ready

approach
As

speed
before

to

the

clothing in
thwart

and

up

the

nearing

the

entrance

restored

an

as

escape

can

sun,

slept

on

the

by

close
68

and

east

of his

most

as

Royal
strong

enough

from

he

Delaware

to

places,he

an

of the

ship's course

him

soon

offer him

and

came

to

in many

sore

went

the

to

the

Bay aided

light she

brief observation

and

was

the land

night

coast

had

try

the

took

the

rest

he

although

and

refreshing himself

of the

sandy shore
be

must

long

shade

he

day

next

There

Bay.

his thin

out

the

under

snug

fatigue.

utter

judged they

After

bottom.

moments

water-beaker

use.

the

horizon.
he

carried

drying

under

sleep of

Late

boat

himself

made

for emergency

of biscuit

he

and

few

and

of alarm

sounds

after

and

came

arms

stern

into the boat's

able

was

sloop. None

wriggled

with

he

the

in

of his

the

over

lay breathless, listeningfor

he

aboard

himself

lifted

tiously
cau-

sloop's

asleep

wrench

great

As

time.

the

saw

half

steersman,

must

when,

noon,

he

he

or

short

near

gunwale,

the tiller. With

ex-buccaneer

There

the

in

till

ring

above

save

by

sun

his

to

the normal,

above
exhausted

become

peering
deck

far

temperature

BUCCANEER

BLACK

the

vigor

felt perfectly

sloop should

opportunity.
James
tide. A
to

the

made

good

little while
west

shore

THE

for Job

to

distance

was

some

the

the outlines

see

the

be

to

question

painter and

for it. He
most

if the

quietly as
away

from

ploughing

trees

above

not

on

bluff. He

mile

at

whether

in his mind
in

slipped

the boat's

through

the

side

There

most.

should

he

better

be

and

set

him

for

dead.

in

So,

for the land,

out

with

water

swim

dled
gunwale, pad-

the

over

cut

or

him

pirates still supposed

he

figured

getting away

it would

that

otter,

an

of

the boat

use

decided

ways

BUCCANEER

BLACK

long

overarm

stroke.

had

Job
the

loomed

trees

gravel

hard

above

dry ground,

out

upon

his

first destination.

light silvered

the

the

white

wings

the

water

from

long
escape
out

to

arms

and

the

When
it

was

Dawn

at

last he

the

his sides

to

had

come

warm

turning

like

69

and

the

he

as

to

mariner

thought

the northward

bluffs.

of

early

glinted on

spaniel, stretched

face

the tree-clad

gasping

crept

and

big

sky,laughed
his gaunt

scraped

the southward

miles

gulls. The

before

tide

his feet

and

rippling cross-swells
of

swiftly along

turning

his head

the bank.

under

the

fight with

shook
both
of his
set

XII

CHAPTER

the

James

Royal

MEANWHILE
the

Capes, sailing demurely

her

of

with

they passed
be
to

lot

aboard

unnoticed

or

when
a

or

for

the

him

Jeremy

that

them

spoke

speak

watched

the

shores

but

of

it

had

the

was

cufF

into

relapsed
him

his

crew,

with

was

brought

deck

on

monosyllabic

Herriot

give

to

except

in

He

gone.

men

he

they

hardship

was

the

Nothing

when

away

him

to

if there

wondered

Job

Bonnet,

Captain
moods.

colors

get

by

part

ports

British

He

to

the

the

nothing

now

most

of
for

him

along,

and

interest.

was

sloop,

his black

made

top.

for

the

As

closed

There

any

curse.

of

one

chance

deck

deep

anchor.

came

and

her

from

fluttering

would

gun

inside

far up

was

commands.
Late
the

the

shipping
but

no

Bonnet
fresh
the
and

shore, the

Delaware
and

after

following day,

anchor

the
of

one

little

put

himself
ruffles

and

gig lowered,
addressed

off

town
to

came

with

then
them

them.

on

hair

looked

about

the

wide

stead
road-

and

side,

water

surprise
a

powdered.

good-humoredly
70

the

the

To

steeples

by

deck, wearing
his

in

The

visible

were

along

progress

to

out.

run

meet

slow

hove

sloop

was

good
He

assembled

enough.

coat

of

all.
and

ordered
crew

"Now,

THE

lads," said

my

boat's
with

go

merchant

wharves,

pick

bells. Herriot
watch.
let him

knew
the

under
nose.

leaned

and

hawk-eyes

would

the old

vanished

note

break

yer

yet I" He

thought
himself

never

ye

seemed
of

this

it seemed.
what

neck,

of

young
to

be

the

gig

at

here, keep

the
soon

eight
strict

charge. Don't

the

Bonnet's

his

to

to

escape

sloop'sside, the boy

rail. Pharaoh

out

the man's

whelp,

Daggs

'un," said he with

o' leavin'

gimp

boots.

the broken

with

man

the

o'

ye^"

voice.

but

were

us,

'T'd

I won't

he
a

eight men

when
went

queer

he

tering
ban-

like

'un!

aboard

might
to

Never

that

to

just

not

"

half

on,

ye,

The

licking his ugly chops

occasion

luxury. Then

he'll do. Them

was

the

from

future

"Hm,

the

attempt

"Ah, there, young

took

man

are

sank

any

cynical jocularity,"just thinkin'

when

into

separate

in your

be

off from

put

him.

to

Captain

am

ships that
at

Jeremy's heart

cold

up

meet

boy

dejectedly against

slouched

sight."

futile

gig

all

aboard

the

how

the

As

of

men

I leave

of your

out

that

You

Royal James,

navigator. We'll

names

you

the last word

At
He

and

Daggs,

is about.

that

picked

ship-chandler's place along

the

up

with

of the

are

and

their cargoes,

sail, and

to

honest

and

tavern

every

there

news

coaster,

likewise

Thomas,

ashore

going

that you

remember

me

honest

he, 'Tm
get what

to

crew

BUCCANEER

BLACK

at

the

allow

himself
can

brig,now

tell
"

rougher piece o' piracy since Morgan's day

71

BLACK

THE

than

his

there

behind

start

this

as

once

had

shuddered
that

he

was

him

I"

the

thanked

God

kill

to

gave

wondered

of

his

And
a

had

Job's

erance
deliv-

own

I He

mad-man

fervently for

the fortune

him.
while

pause

with

us

prisoners taken

escape

of

'em

stop

tried

had

the

whim

mere

to

Jeremy

He

of

attempted

far attended

so

There

become

life it seemed.

been
and

had

regard

had

in human

dear

cost

what

brig. That

the

aboard

that'd

bad

Stood

pricked

then

An'

rat

"

plank.

did, an'

board.

little

the

soliloquy progressed.

twice

or

the

is Stede

he's bad,

Oh,

he

laughed,

blasted

walk

beggars

they tipped

drownin'

all!

us

an'

roared

till

from

those

makin'

an'

BUCCANEER

of

sort

the

buccaneer

seemed

crafty hesitancy.At

to

length

spoke.
here, boy," he said, his voice

"See

whisper,

"how

long

had

you

sinking to

been

livin'

on

that

hoarse
there

island?"

Jeremy

looked

answered,

"only

"And
round

now!"
his

you

there

nor

"

to

Daggs

wonderingly.

up

find

day

or

folks

"

closer,

went

never

nothin', did yer? Tell

leaned

long,"

he

really."

two,

of yer

none

"Not

murderous

me

nosin'

the truth,

intensity in

face.

"No,"

gripped
The

said

Jeremy, squirming

as

the

man's

fingers

his shoulder.

pirate

gave

him

another
72

long, piercing

look

THE

his terrible eyes,

from

where
his

In

the

he

wretched

life. It

loneliness

than

have

been

in his

was

since

he

that
shoulders

be

the

black

river

shudder

mouth.

The

the

through Jeremy.

He

the

the

his capture.

night of

Pondering,
was

sound
came

hurrying

across

the

by

pulled in

in

deck.
two

and

and

the

gig

was

mainsail

settled

sky

with

in

sent

startling
the

on

island

identical.

cried.

aboard

Captain

as

up,

spread, and
73

to

shout

later

moment

like mad.
black

by ready
soon

the
in

as

They
sloop,
hands.

he reached

cable
an

the

Bonnet's.

Stede

was

alongside the

pulled

swung

woke

subdued

rowing

crew

up

he

that

voice

I" he

on

I" cried the

The

the

seen

aboard.

close

swept

oars,

that

Daggs

figureswere

later

The

us

his

asleep.

sight,her

caught

the cable

oars

tears

forced

Darkness

of

cry.

tion
the realiza-

Pharaoh

had

to

resolved

recalled

two

hours

water.

take

into

their

were

"Cut
the

to

gig shot

and

four

of

in his

for

old

he

and

might.

he

The

fell

boy

some

with

gray

solitaryman

of

"Stand
the

the

now

by

his eyes

and
too

form

against

distinctness

It

what

come

silhouette

indeed

jaw

him

to

himself

his square

down
been

ever

shedding them,

near

man,

sank

relief

throat

ward,
for-

went

the shore.

boy

walk, and

back, shut

he would
over

was

and

toward

it had

considered

he could

him

the

heavier

smarted, but he had

almost

released

staringoff

might

lump

great

then

stood

rail,his heart

whole

BUCCANEER

BLACK

chopped
incredibly

THE

short time

the

the roadstead.

Royal

James

Hardly

had

orders

of bullets

hit, and
craft

the sails

as

left her

soon

Jeremy,
hand

the
the

one

wherever

he

time

had

look

to

at

him

small

the

older

than

young

New

Englander

lad's

face

smoothly
ribbon.
his

long

he

coat

flowered
and

to

pirates,the
spoke

first words

it

was

with

Jeremy heard

boy

clothes

no

the

small

neatly cut.

Below
velvet

shoes

His

color.

with

silver.

rough questions of the

scornful

74

of

same

have

to

him

to

lantern,

with

behind

the

and

seemed

known

of

face

first

talking

displayed buff

were

buckled

and

the

well

finest

of velvet,

was

and

seen.

tied

and

of

resolute, his hair black,

and

the oaths
lad

been

the

ever

stockingsof

of fine leather

had

the

in

waistcoat

silk

for

light

upon

dark

lent

of range

very

The

had

had

work,

out

that

dressed

back

blue

In response
two

was

brushed

His

breeches
were

Jeremy,

pirate

rear.

turned

figureswere

which

The

he

group

held, fell

latter

well

was

Herriot.

the

was

able, during the rush

subsided,

and

Bonnet

"

sloop

the

to

lade
fusil-

sloop

properly

others

best

was

of the

amidships. Two

far

the

on

draw

to

watch

to

the

When

excitement

began

one

and

shouts

scattered

crews,

No

pursuers

never

escape.

their

when

way

amid

and

aboard.

came

under

gotten

astern

from

surrender

to

down

bowling along

was

she

longboats appeared

two

BUCCANEER

BLACK

say

little

ring
were:

to

say.

When

in his voice.
"You'll

The

under-

CHAPTER

"salt

N^HE

!/" w

touched
his

up

portion

proud

make

matter

for

friends
and

he

aboard

came

tunic,
his

to

old
them

of

and
a

hair,

sloop

channel

of

breeze,

and

could
a

in

long

day,
to

and

the

the
of

withstand
before

consuming

far

canted

desire

pleasure

the
to

young
know

76

and

received

had

It

of

boy's

in

the

names

middle

fine
No

sailing

fine
face.

keen

the

stranger

have
the

see

down

as

was

would

to

an

make

to

leeward.

to

nearly

now

straining

canvas

noon

rags

speed

great

the

with

in the

self-reliance

deck

socks

one

leather

bagged

and

for

when

old

wool

savage.

glance

second

Bay, her

her

which

once

him

in his

voyage

It is

buckskin

from

clad

kept

at

not

manageable,

very

that

as

did

latter's

garterless

never

and

morning.

taken

now

making

was

The

trousers,

during

long

he

shoes, stuffed

qualities of grit and

The

was

wrinkled,

rough

required

he

seaman's

attention

that

been

had

buckled

fit. His

little
wild

of

ankles,

pair

wonder

hardly-

He

him

the

all

appeal

scant

offered

Jeremy

Jeremy.

and

made

fast
break-

for

out

boy's appetite.

moccasins

pair

James

aloofness

with

breeches

served

was

Royal

which

of

pose

scarcely

the

Delaware

the

the

which

horse"

aboard
to

XIII

on

west

boy
such

had

given

of

things.

THE

Jeremy
with

of the

the

on

could

it
of her

with

was

being

and

he

day

went

overtaken

on

and

acquaintance

new

expected, and
"Are

Herriot.

toward

from

open-mouthed.
asked

too?"

Jeremy,
that
As

the

he,

much

wasn't

for fear I'd have

fifteen

Stede

knew

as

Bonnet's

to

dare

three

the

as

noon

to

was

the last

ding
lad, nod-

described

and

for

you

ended.
as

money

hope

"No,"

soon

me

replied

they

as

be gotten

leave

ransom,

on

they thought

of

from

the
a

saw

in my
the

ships-of-warafter

company

his

the other marveled

while

story

didn't

those

boys laughed

flightof

me
case.

island
them."

head-long
garrison of

sheep.

"Well,"
know

they

figureit,they

Both

the

By

of soup

dark-haired

they holding

as

the board.

the

beginning

deed,
In-

sure.

the north.

to

Jeremy laughed

"Are

"I reckon

there

asked

glowed

despair as

pannikins
by

went

his son?"

you

adventure

them

was

ravenously hungry,

their

proud

as

he

one

boy's friends,

and

pride

appeared

to

he admitted

the Delaware

was

over

between

reserve

that

her

brig I Nothing

sloop, he

the

by

sail

the

filled

was

was

her. How

with

battle

between

no

he

course,

regret

some

divided

was

Of

outsail

and

talking about

if he owned

the

of

account

coast

of

himself.
as

heart

ship by

opportunity

Royal James

his

over

be

the

at

BUCCANEER

the whole

ignorant than

more

his

had

now

joy

BLACK

most

said the Delaware

of my

story

boy, still chuckling, "you

already. My
77

father

is Clarke

THE

of

Curtis

ships

plantation
at

was

to

four

times
I

Well,
There

is
I

watchman

the

wharf.

his

When

he

They

gagged

put

dock

and
row

after

came

missed
or

sum

me

out

low.

Pretty

they grabbed
They

do.

more

they

as

right away.
his
of

me.

name

That's

and

I guess

Father's
So

is thinks
all

78

of

down
some

biggest
could

before

and

held

them

boat

up

to

in, spite

me

another

to

then

he's

going

my

story,

wharf

started

have

must
or

to
so

to

that

boats

those

Bonnet

me.

gave

came

ship. He

old

now

where

and

that

put

and

men

could.

from

were

soon

and

"

along

of

paddled along

some

mast
main-

know

close

one

me

stood

her

"

mouth

then

and

she

big

and

my

and

us

whatever

over

moored.

Father

'twas

me

fast

fast

as

to

up

burden.

was

came

men

to

come

wondering

quite

were

me

aboard

took
out

stepped

and

of all I could

they

his hand

shout

whistle, long

four

when

and

and

her

at

she

steeple,you

thought perhaps

Herriot,

one,

all dark

up

just

lightsand

no

inside

was

for her

too

where

and

three
full-rigger,

fast

the dock

church

our

as

was,

men.

"

around

had

she's

ship

wharf-side

high

the

the

on

just looking

was

of

down

the
as

the

see

who

captains

night

Last

Father

wharves.

has

and

trade
creek.

Brandywine

his

nobody

was

India

East

Father

is Bob.

name

big as this,and

as

went

above

up

to

own

by the

of

one

port. I wanted
or

the

on

up

My

the

in

warehouse

our

talking

Castle.

New

some

owns

BUCCANEER

BLACK

Thomas
get
far.

fat
But

THE

BUCCANEER

BLACK

there'll be another

sakes, sincerely hoped

At

sunset

day

held

her

and

behind

in the

her

faded

out

the first watch,

that

can

only
the

and

the open

the

coast

Cape
while

sea,

hazy

grew

boys, sittinglate

two

that

shadowy

"

into

ture
of adven-

fine ecstasy

the

in

cleared

James

for

with

their

might.

Royal

course

shivered
come

star-lit decks

the

The

gone.

Jeremy, for both

there

gathering dusk

was

"

that

of that

Henlopen

I"

chapter yet

of

mystery

long, whispering ripple of

lowing
fol-

sea.

who

Jeremy,
of

the

ship

twenty-four

as

place

of

changed places with

perhaps

for the first time, the

into
lads

life with
at

Ducats

least

had

and

swords

awave

crimson
their

human

sails

sleep

the bunk

at

any

boy

fulness

dreams

of

alive.

of

joy

That

companionship.

golden

had

before

thought

desolation, would

utter

have

now

hours

He

that

knew,
comes

night

youthful
and

not

two

kind.

plum-cake,

doubloons,

princesses

and

blazing, great galleons with

"

when
the

no

cannon

wonder

that

George

Dunkin

change

of the

79

they
held

watch.

were

smiling
lantern

over

in

CHAPTER

day

!/" WN^HE

I
J-L

had

dark

in

came

little

XIV

after

steep

the

had

before

and

jib, began

storm

staggering

his

poor

and

talk

to

Near

he

and

deck

in

the

look

off

to

at

along
water

bunk.

for

the

he

as

their

in

the

rose

on

height.

trough,
either

to

wretched
very

the

the

reeling

white

little
of
up

He

vessel

foam

like

tain's
Cap-

moment

tops

vanished.

the

and

erably
mis-

serve

stopped

slopes

81

within,

keel-hauled.

along

and

up

felt

form
per-

cared

least

at

racing

great

beam,

was

aft

he

While

to

too

returned

momentarily

had

Bob

went

The

windward.

he

it,

happy.
un-

very

forward

or

dark,

of

stumbled

time

rescued

was

gathering

gleamed

he

his

nightfall Jeremy
supper,

waves

and

day,

whether

little

upon

Bob

how

reefs

aimless,

an

Englander

done

was

Jeremy

three

in

in

sea

weather

and

matter

no

ened
fresh-

the

under

long slopes

Jeremy

wind

and

from

rough

New

tasks

work

lay

all

made

young

regular
the

once

the

down

that

fashion
The

but

and

up

The

anything

sloop,
make

to

changed

scud.

in
from

The

experienced.

which

northeast

waves

hills, quite different

gray

dizzy

the

to

steadily, driving

fog,

driving

to

noon

around

gone

with

and

wet
to

of
was

the
palled
ap-

surged
black

tossing

hill-

to

in

swaying

the

smoke

steersman

wide-eyed
and

and

the

in his bunk
the

on

When

Jeremy

Pharaoh

buccaneer's

The

beams.

He

sat

heavy

shoulders

teeth.

"That

an'
We

cut

got

Sol

his

heard

such

with

the

on

Brig

down

down

boy
the

to

from

the
82

only
deck.

on

seasickness,
of

tales

in

plunder

the

down

lad

the

fo'c's'le

the

on

of

the

deck

table, his

long clay pipe

''four

ing
star-

terror.

rays

of

run

ladder,

positive

one

lay

blood

his

by

saying,

was

with

for

stay

of

the

of

from

thick

Delaware

look

hook

and

to

the

lit up

was

hunched

the

crew,

made

as

edge

night," he

away,

from

from

she

Then

down

was

would

found

face

masts

last

at

swept

the

of

dripping

he

lantern, hung

smoky

sky.

gale

seas

came

evil

the

asleep

lookout

Daggs

foot, her

wide-eyed,

reek

high

the

fo'c's'le

wet

and

early that afternoon,

at

the

The

and

sloop

lashing water.

day

the

shifting

long, sickening

at

fell

recovered

savagery

cold.

wind

and

somewhat

Bob,

he

next

in

and

ing
cling-

breath, the

across

where

unabated.

northeast

tobacco

all

and

dawn

At
the

screaming

of

sound

half

arc

bunk,

his

to

instant

Shivering

ascend.

to

brief

great

declivity

next

for

rocked

and

crept

the

down

pitched

the

across

his

catch

could

he

Before

valleys.

for miles

look

the

to

terrified lad,

the

dizzy second

climb

staggering

the

come

shroud, could

began

for

and

summit,

sag,

would

Then

sides.

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

us

in his
went

where

they'd hanged

him.

sloop

an'

with

out

to

sea

the

driving

with

down

went

veritable

of

which

the

New

boat, towed
been

her

own

the
to

all

astern

the

as
on

they

that it

in

but

the

still

on

was

in

ran

pect
pros-

every

all hands

were

task

difficult.

wise
places. Otherlittle. The

the
had

brig's

the

first
two

considered

not

the

following

flightdown

Royal James

deck, this

night

seas

some

loose

cut

have

must

unusually

suffered

through

and

swamped

fitted

had

and

rate

trimming sails, a

sloop made

be

gale

north, and

and

tented
con-

afloat. The

of the

dawn

breakfast

Before

herself

lashed

to

reefs

had

However,

storm.

the

tossingof

the vessel

had

sky

out

halyards

parture
de-

gave

and

pursuit.Toward
The

fair weather.

shaking

to

parently
ap-

abrupt

James

good

reflected

ranges.

clear

her

trifle,though the

mountain

day showed

set

at

all

to

stop

Royal

southward

them

effectuallyput
wind

but

Herriot

and

keeping

ungrateful as they

not

were

sail the

to

attempts

themselves
was

man's

Bonnet

continued,

storm

their

up

interminable

its course,

scarred

changed
ex-

forgotten.

soon

was

the

resumed

the

of

incident

the

glances

two

or

one

of fo'c's'le talk

stream

As

saw

pirates before

the

among

foul

alert,

always

Jeremy,

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

Bay,

day

of

boats

of

real

loss.
When

the

sun

bearings, and
headed

west,

gave
a

high enough,

was

the

helmsman

point north.

The

84

Herriot

orders

sloop made

to
a

took

his

keep

her

long

beat

BLACK

THE

of it
the

BUCCANEER

starboard, thrashing up

to

before

following day,

Capes. Slipping through

his role

resumed

the

James

with

the

up

fine air of
and

Jeremy

water's

edge.

bay opened

of

that the

to

in

and

part

from

be

harbor.

him

better

the

villageat

the

of

the

and

arm

and

hoped

free him

expected

the chances

increased

if

they

remembered

Jeremy

when

the

have

for
came

tain's
Capthe

reached

they

he would

sional
occa-

been

loth

to

friend, he felt that he might

render

ashore

aboard

service

full

two

was

given

to

anchor.

inlet far up

brought
side. The

in his company

than

boys

way

They

the

banks
could

of

had

wind

at

Their

there

shore,

and

and

was

no

wooded,

sign of

were

land

85

when

both

Dave

finally

was

of

from
and

wide

had

Bonnet

good distance

minds

getting to

order

into the mouth

put

high

were

see

the

days before

the Eastern

on

into

about.
some

thought

much

although

new

or

an

low

pirate.

It

the

and

his

flag,

the

with

astern,

lads

Bob

enter.

half-promise to
Chesapeake,

sailed

British

spiritsas

estuary

the

bow,

would

some

their

passed

fresh

every

the

rescue

anchor

net
Bon-

and

the

under

plantation house

sloop would

or

escape

regained

As

on

Virginia

honesty.
ahead

glimpse

the

merchantman

of

most

of darkness,

cover

Chesapeake

Bob

unrolled

shores

under

and

night

sighted

she

sober

of

all

as

habitation

her

either
far

as

where
any-

busy planning
Herriot

came

BLACK

THE
up

behind

of

each.

They

them

and

BUCCANEER

put

completely mystified, until

went,

him

before

into

master

thrust

Then

Jeremy

understood.

The

of

bars

the

had

iron

two

into

victim, he locked

"Ye'll
remarked

other,

he

considered

heavy

was

had

let

hour

an

later

moment
to

the

nearest

chain

would

start

to

hail

ye

three.

an

allow, and

of
of

by
later

the

deck, then
after

of the

with

the

Yankee

the

taking

some

one

of

far

as

four

saw

as

his
men

ing
jest-

coarse

the

close

water

sent

crew

departing gig. The

returned,

86

young

blocks, and

the

his

boy's

the

of the Jamaican,

Jeremy, straining at

at

rage

Bay. Within

the voice

boat

each

opportunities for

was

the

of

boys.

at

pale

crevice

wrists

stared

stretched

There

the

again," Herriot

davit

boat

It

it and

to

dropped

Jeremy

shore.
on

up

was

through

well. Bill!"

hour

voyage

creak

splash

the

of

anchor

gun-port.

answered

was

Half

the

laughter

"Fare

the

the

the

while

thought

slipon

toward

row

and

he

as

was

dishonor,

after

prisoners heard

for

lads

Bob

speak.

to

fastened

alleyway.

of each

departed. The

glum

too

flighthe
half

he

as

ment
arrange-

chained

sail

deck.

gun

was

the

meant

awhile, till we

there

stay

of

ankle

an

big sailing-

the port

shackles

of these,

pair

the

collar

gruffly.

old-fashioned

end

of iron

the

said

"bilboes"

bow

the

sets

smallest

grown

heart

called
at

three

or

the

what

them

bulkhead

the

to

into

lads," he

along below,

"Come

hand

huge

Curley.

carrying only

tether, made

out

that

Curley

not

was

he

Bob,"

ransom

I can't

said

say,

errand

some

on

of them.

one

"Well,

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

Bill

but

it's about

Curley's

and

"

be

to

thoughtful.

down,

sat

last, "whether

at

other

or

He

been

your

ashore

sent

awhile,

gone

too,

figure."
something

was

voice
the

heard

was

get

under

irons

them

they

the deck
The

it

that

query,

least, and

they

to

make

made

hard

bed

to

banish

three sea-miles,

forgotten in

the

care

at

of

the

they

rest, and

and

heavy slumber

87

age

be left in

very

it

on

bitter

the

fatigue.

more

ship had

bodily misery alike

of

as

the bare

requires

before

to

under

south

comfortable
their

supper,

in response

added,

were

sloop

foremast

pork for

that

the

to

felt the

headed

were

themselves

planking. Fortunately,
than

orders

The* boys' thoughts

canvas.

tried

at

and

and

up

They
one

biscuit

Herriot's

was

creaked

When

Bonnet's

after, ordering

soon

hoisted.

some

when

both

to

anchor

was

developments. It

for

above,

more.

them

for the present

Jeremy's
full

on

wait

surprise

once

way

brought

he told

the sail

of blocks

hands

of

manned.

capstan

rattle

little but

do

could

They

were

CHAPTER

Rowland's

JOB

nothing

held

his

of

most

the

aboard

ship

At

the

were

so

on

to

as

had

well,

pity

convenient
and

Job

New

had

straight to
water-front

the

of

under-

ravines

and

as

shore.

Like

barefoot

gone

weather

warm

he

that

the

his

felt

the

midday,

he

hardly

till

rough boots,

and

dried

he

been
the

in

Red

that

seamen

the

Hawk
catered

brawny
that

was

before

town

Tavern,

plied
88

to

along

under

pushed

the

little

setting.
and

small

whose
the

went

now

place

chiefly to seafaring
Swede,

the

put

he
to

gave

wished

he

slept

adventure
sun

and

as

morning

with

out

to

he

when

next

the

fish

continued

night,

as

him

fitted

ing.
cloth-

for

applied

and

further

Castle, just

before

he

plight,

biscuit

him

just

whom

to

on

without

tavern-keeper,
half

of

jack-pine. Early
came

of

had

cove,

reinforced

behind

leagues

port

day, he

calloused

breeches

much

as

Thus

carry.

on

hills

Delaware

beginning

little

shirt, serviceable

him,

that

fishermen,

several

They
a

since

shack

found

of

the

up

pair

in

were

shoes.

of

need

steadily

of

they

as

than

light work

sailors

his soles

and

cumbersome

made

way

clad

legs,

long

more

breeches,
he

XV

men.

blue
coast

on

the
The
eyes
were

"

AT

SHACK

ON
SEVERAL

LITTLE
FISHERMEN

COVE

HE

Harcourt,

FOUND

Brace

and

Cuidyuu,.

In,
.

I One

wives
such

if I'd had

Why,

Africa,

even

need

an

There

was

later the

door

reply

thin and

Job

thought.
become
His

hat

The

to

this

him

the

and

to

as

from

out.

in

fellow,

gray.

pirate sloop,finishingwith

suppressed

Governor

listened

and

seaman

Job,

said. "But

of

boy

the

there

slept at

you

of the
and

as

pardon
is another

the

stolen

Red

from

At

when

the end

ruled

as

side

Hawk.

to

Was

the wharves

90

cool

the

attempted

his escape.

gravely, starting once

Captain Bonnet.

shall have

his

out.

waiting

account

Jeremy, their recapture

named

tion.
emo-

loading his six-pounder

were

flightwith
mariner

to

his fists clenched

just vacated.

an

His

seemed

Job, he jammed

at

the

moment

come

cool

dressed

strode

to

room

if he

suave,

and

looking

turned

into

awry

his head

and

fire,told the story of his experiences aboard

under

there

clear

see

strongly built,

were

Without

in gray

seemed

in the face

red

self-possessed
as

say

must

gentlemen

two

more

ruffles

upon

man

beckoned

he

seas

the l72dm?2

beggars

tone

elegantly

was

very

emerged.

cocked

"You

scamps

off the

aboard

you

lower

pale and

He

linen

in
for

companion, larger and

and

'em

the

Governor,

opened

was

he

chased

have

were.

One

as

of

culverin

good

the

teach

iti"

see

have

half

scare

night, I'd

last

Queen

we

would

as

could

man-o'-war

good

lesson

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

The

the

he nodded.

by the Crown,"
this affair. You
there
late

no

in the

talk
eve-

Job

nlng*?"

he

replied that

breakfasted

had

and

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

had

without

left

and

Sed

to

gone

early

hearing

any

gossip.
what

"From
should
who

be

ready

proclaimed
the

to

same

the incident

the

brig'sdeck.

been

described.

with

those

half

The

features

of Stede
dozen

how

asked

He

would

men

Curtis,
hastened

Job

speech

crazed

the

kidnapper

tallied
In

Bonnet.

last

of Clarke

the buccaneer's

of

Thomas,

tavern

Bonnet."

Stede

your

in

son

"I

Governor,

Captain

name

the

off with

as

the

that

by

the

on

that

himself

man

went

swear

relate

from

as

to

later made

night and
was

say,"

you

had

exactly

almost

addition, the schooner,

had

swear,

been

painted

black.
satisfied that

Thus

the

James,
that
his
all

"Job

Governor

unlawful

good
and

behavior.

to

be

Then

he

sea

King,

release
an

took
to

the

honest

man

of

during

his

with

the

was

penalty

seaman

of

of

repented

aforetime,"

from

the
one

and

sworn

larger

him
houses
ware-

the dockside.

Standing
in

pardon, stating

by him

held

passed quickly down

whom

the

committed

was

Royal

pirate, having duly

full

the

aboard

was

formal

Majesty

granted
and

by

man

late

his

acts

henceforward

Curtis

wrote

Howland,

allegianceto

his crimes

Bob

in the
Job

doorway

had

seen

were

that

the red-faced

morning

boots, easily recognized

91

as

and

man
gentlea

large

ship'sofficer.

the rather

To

returned

that's

flat, but

brought
him

two

tale

his

keep

months

Queen
to

get

preparations
friend
Tm

of

glad

crack

at

here

now."

Job

fell

to

pirates.She

to

an

combat

There

were

however,

her

carried

ancient

make,

and

Tve

you,

some

Tell

use.

other
it

was

interest

for

at

age

company!

ready

only
far

will
for

below

the

92

worth

least, and,
Bonnet

than

the

he

what

This

young

be

must

Let's

the

the

matter

work

the

Indian
with

standard

harbor

well,

"

to

get

encounter

like the

better

make

once.

six

if you

light serpentine

two

ships in

clue

more

helping

an

schooner

over

nothing

want

off

its

Curtis, slapping

pirate. We'll

good

of

gun-pointer aboard

Bob's

well-armed
no

by

it. Howland,

you

get

about

with

get

crew

and

Carolina.

coast

you

the

boy's got

my

here

cannon,

is, at

for

upon

say

and

can

aboard

Queen

that

make
You

"

Mr.

head

depended

here.

we

yours

of

scoundrel

to

from

away

ship again, TU

Indian

find

cried

the

sure

if his life

to

than

who

he'll be

couldn't

well

finished, "that's

seaman

know

course,

those

the intense

to

"By Gad,"

the

I We

having

care

repeated,

was

thigh, as

"Look

up.

mean

may

you

came

spare
I

the Governor

Howland."

hearers.

new

that

whom

man

former

they

as

show

to

story,

your

The

of

nod

the

Curtis," he said, 'T can't

now,

of

greeting of

cool

cheerful

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

the

cannon

necessary

Royal

James.

carrying guns,
of

procuring

an

that

armament

There
fort below
them
of

fit

to

repliedthat
be

six

the

with

element

the

in

Job

Howland

forgotten.

were

the

and

The

rather

thorough,

needed

his

sent

overseer

for the

arrange

planter
than

strengthening the improvised gun

to

the

advent

of

Curtis
the

now

Philadelphia

to

and

work

on

decks

able
avail-

all the

put

and

to

the Queen^

cutting the

of ports.

rows

The

northeast

temporary

awhile
waterfront

to

these

his

with
was

agog

by

sprang

activities

get himself

some

friend
with

the

the tall New

everywhere

surrounded

that

gale

stop
to

and

the

hurried, preparation.

shipwrights to

and

carpenters

out
with-

ship-owner

and

of guns,

purchase

it would

bore, all differences

horseback

on

Governor

Naturally

with

he

news

matter

careering over

was

chase.

However,

borrow

plunder

blinded

affair

was

defences
and

ship

wild-goose

in this argument.

truth

He

on

Curtis's

it

the

in
to

this the

enter

to

ernor.
Gov-

mounted

stripped of

piratefleet

the

wished

To

colony.

the port

seas

personal

culverins

planter had

whole

difficulty,while
seven

with

his vessel, urging that

possiblefor

the

words

had

good

The

town.

out
to

concern

had

Curtis

were

the

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

knot

coasting-skippers,whose

of

and

news

Swede.
of the

Englander

questioning
vessels

93

gave

Job

clothes

decent

the

day put

next

up

seamen.

The

an

portunit
opnob
hob-

and

whole

kidnapping,
went

he

was

Several

lay ready-loaded

at

decided

the wharves,

the

When

again

set

the

on

of
of

the

of

in
It

of

case

when

different

directions,

two

The

first of these

the

larger colony
that

news

at

the
be

in

shape.

shipped

The

other
and

somewhat
lane

that

o'clock

paid

for

Curtis's

the

in the

it, and

of

the

deck

ward
for-

bear

the

some

pendence
de-

to

placed

first week

New

Castle
other

of

from

on

foot.

from

returned

bringing

the

good

lying

the

dock

on

Street, in Philadelphia, ready

as

of middle
in

dressed

she

as

soon

good

slipped through the

toward

the

were

the Queen

He

led

and

Bay,

darkly sallow,
worn.

ness
effective-

the

in

sour-looking man

reference

the

overseer,

cannon

Market
aboard

masters,

to

horseback, the

on

one

of

he

into

came

was

was

into
7

men

score

of

foot

to

lean

which

on

with

stoutly

days later,

up

as

section

Job, who

good

porthole
well

artisans

running fight.

six

August,

under

reinforced

capstan

about

was

had

He

news

the

out

Indiaman.

of gunnery

bow-chaser,

East

firingas

broadside.

weight

in

safety

and

ease

itself

every

some

clear.

was

big

supervised the placing of

to

sailinguntil

blown

the science

learned

had

Bay

had

work

to

the

storm

off

put

to

that

indicate

should

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

Red

the
Hawk

evening,
began

wharves.

to

Tavern

he

asked

talk

94

clothes
into

little after

pint

politely to

trusively
unob-

Coming
a

put

height,

trees

at

for

sea

was

the

of

rum,

Swede.

THE

Job

the

him

his

face

from

narrowly. It

Jamaican.

barkeep

he

back

to

he

started

This

come.

with

paper

to

plied
re-

made

the street,

up

gate
run

in

he

ing
keep-

stooped,

hand,

and
in

once

the

old

friend. Job

and

at

in

He
command

95

the

to

took

off his

he

in the

from

pinned

made

soft earth

of which

town

shoes, and

and

was

his way

of the

which

fiftyyards,

the butt

Howland.

big Yankee's

the

earshot.

these, apparently

Turning,

direction

brought him,

of

advanced

on

of

out

the

in

tall shrubs

were

one

the door.

to

Jamaican

Street

High

behind

one

the

it, keeping

planter. There

pistolmuzzle,
the

out

figure of

followed

waited

them

the

set

he

did

Curtis's

Clarke

to

ill-

Swede

I" The

way

the

stepped

and

good pistol.He

then

the

reconnoitering.Then
piece of

the

straight up

of the

carrying

the

into

out
rose

crew

with

and

and

went

and

yard

armed

detected

man

residence

giving

lookout.

gloom ahead,
The

inquired

primed

was

Soon

had

was

careful

Job

gone

Bonnet's

of

one

he

Job

it

was

rum

"Quick, Nels," he whispered, "what

that

sure

he

Curley, the

and

"Good-night," passed

When

his

and

watch

to

Bill

shipmate,

civil

you'? He's

house.

light,continued

the

started

exclamation,

no

pirate finished

the bar.

ask

made

his old

was

He

corner.

one

The

lighted street.
to

in

entered, but

man

shading

BUCCANEER

his supper

eating

was

when

BLACK

face
held

road,

he

had

to

face

by

his

stopped in his tracks

held

both

arms

above

his head.

Curley'sbreastbone

and

back

knocked

fits

sightof

the

at

his master's
Curtis

Job's

it

to

and

without

the

When

scared

about

they

from

pistol,led

drawn

the

face

to

paper

boy,

negro

word.

pistol from

him

ordered

down

the

the

rived
ar-

door

almost

into

the way

into

Then

the

of

leading

events

he took the paper

and

It

Englander.
in Stede

read

and

was

in

an

it,alternately

letter

neatly drawn

even,

refined

Bonnet's
Aboard

Curley's

to

finished, he passed

he

exclaiming. As

written

heard

ejaculationof surpriseand

an

account

the New

and

up

with

rose

frowning

him

against

room.

brief

capture.

took

loudly.

his weapon

planter'shouse.

the

to

there, Job
and

he

waistband,

walk

dirk

long

of

nose

searched

and

removed

Jamaican's

the

jammed

Job

Having

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

hand.

Sloop Royal James^

Inlet

the

near

now

of the

Head

Chesapeake Bay.
To

Clarke

Mr.

of New

Curtis, Esq.
Castle, in

the

Delaware

Colony.

Sir:

Having
Curtis,
return

we

to

aboard

now

offer you

vessel,or otherwise
Second, that

to

shall make

you

you

to

wit

custody

shall
he

send
is

your

Robert

son

for his release

and

safe

no

employ

bringing,provided
5,000

in safe

and

following terms

the

Namely,

you.

First,that

us

to

attempt
force
a

96

sum

us

in

an

armed

us.

single man,

alone,

pounds sterling.

upon

attack

in

carryingor

wise
other-

gold amounting

to

terrible

too

He

his hands.

Job

the

understood

broad

chances

oak

the

of

something
from

boy's

have

had

in defiance

attack

the

not

insane

he

as

bold

than

the

When

Job

believe

most

do

as

boy

much

o' savin'

that

schooner's

an'

swim

as

it. I've

we

took

an'

aboard

lad.

boldly

I'll get

up

after

as

the bars

dark,

north

as

till I'm
so

98

can

about

there

near

in

can

near

look

all.

said,
I

and

Jeremy
think

along. I

I know

like

was

head.

see,

as

scheme.

my

at

he

o' this scrape

they'llbe
close

can

It

if

about

you

there

down

I reckon

ually
Grad-

his

raised

told

out

Fear

Cape

tardly
das-

more

Curtis,"

here's

Now

even

far's I

up

getting him

acrost
out

"Mr.

do

I'll sneak
crawl

him.

half-

Captain,

ex-pirate'sbrain.

to

deck.

September,
then

threatened.

me

around

coast

time.

he

now

an

urge

letter. He

of

done,

your

to

capable

be

o'

last

the

to

thing

Bonnet's

in the

terms

be executed

to

faced

and

one

the

the

the

over

that

in the

form

needed

it's for

Swan,

one

father's

Standing

mused

grief-strickengentleman

turned

"there's

be

the

took

and

one

would

was,

idea

an

of the

the

Knowing

been

slightestdoubt

crimes

he

alive.

escape

of

resting in

comment.

any

mantelpiece,

eccentricities, he would
armed

it's

good God,

"

armchair, his head

an

refrained

and

anguish
by

into

dropped

plans

of I"

think

to

the

slip in

anything should

if

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

you

I know

the
the

black
first o'

the
small

same

bo'at,

their moorin',
over

the

lay

o'

THE

BLACK

It's

things aboard.
to

o' the

one

and

if

an'

blow

and

can

be

clean

get

we

Bonnet

offer, but

had

took

the best
It

details

be

to

measures

Job's

was

had

fought

in

seemed

not

to

unreasonable

be obtained

messenger

Charles

Town

Charles

to

the

and

discussing

he

the

both

hope

that

and

had

been

than

bearing

another

dispatched
letters

Cc06^O7

99

interest

under

to

were

help

to

parture
of de-

be

to

was

colonies.

there

this
less

night,

still had

They

day they asked

in

hand

pirate'sport
and

proposal,

broad

into

there. Next
to

daring

Carolina

South

to

the

should

they

The

can

work.

to

Town

adjacent

waters

sanction

craft.

expressed the

it fail.

that

and

that

attempt

around

best

at

far

in which

month

Bonnet's

been

that

the

sight,

brown."

up

out

talked

should

of North

destroying

job

grip

suggestion

the governments
in

of

employed

of

part

Queen
the

bein'

o'

out

the

reached

fist in

word

off without

earnestly, amazed

feelings.They

the

planning

the

suggestion. He

his

of

depth

get

can

That's

water.

it'll do

hairy

'em

take

we'll

o'

out

Job's

lyin' to, somewhere

listened

of the man's

take

maybe

away,

if it works

Curtis

and

just possible that

boys

You

caught.

BUCCANEER

the
so

It
aid

was

nor's
Goverfar

warded
re-

twenty-four

hours

Wilmington

and

the

colony seal.

XVI

CHAPTER

for

orders

bilboes.

in

happy
than
an

though

talked

and

action

in

served

out

aboard.

ensued,

was

smashing

the

until

first time

chorus

of

the

"Fifteen
100

to

of

deck

and

the

mast
fore-

all

Capes

the

of

Men"

boys

the

carousal

changed
the

men

in

prodigality
scene

of
than

the

cleared

watch

either

and

merrier
on

rection.
di-

this

prospect

of

rum

fine

in

the

they

for

stretch

great

something,

often

of

away

frequently

was

of

from

plans

hopes

about

deal

and

after

far

the

over

that

good
out

very

conversation

noggins
a

poured

lasting
It

the

was

stiff and

was

their

came

the

night

double

There
was

in

the

On

shore

deck

many

of

Bonnet

him,

below

farther

laid

elated

future.

little

and

sight

incessantly

seen

on

seemed

the

"

quite

near

ever

hands.

it

the

Bonnet

prisoners

quarters

had

Chesapeake

Captain

came

quenched

"

joked

mixed

even

way

away

the

Bob

they

the

young

Rescue

beam

seemed

had

Jeremy

he

either

crew

the

cramped

and

miles

The

before

and

minds.

off

water

dozen

night

by swimming,

escape

of

down

free

to

their

ever,

hurried
a

Jeremy
their

from

weary

and

day

gave

in the

James

Royal

WN^HE
np'

had

sung

night.
mid-

at

heard

by

the

THE

whole

fo'c's'le. Of

hummed

by

one

hot

cheer

the

final "Yo,
table

deal
if

as

of

howling
of

the

the lantern

blowing

were

island

that

all

sentiment
had

what

faced

buccaneers,
every

swaying

lantern.

Yet
sickened.

the

and
the

and

He

was

had

madness

On

the
the

under

Jeremy

saw

behind

of

had

schooner

duty

and

that

shipping

out

as

they
of

strained
the

under

demons
above

the

were

ows.
shad-

dancing
Jeremy

was,

felt

murder

the

reality
"

left for

admiration

no

story.

cruised

sail. A

fierce-

play-acting about

no

the awful

picturesque

eyes,

with

it all

illusion,

he

walk

we'll

brig. The

and

black

following morning,

shortened
on

no

and

jolly buccaneer

the

yelled like

exciting as

seen

"

be

to

true

aboard

planking,

the

I"

too

and

beach

walk

an'

"

the

the

on

their red, drunken

Close

and

There

it for him.

all below

below

the

on

followed

we'll

"An'

"

all

below,

with

man,

wild

heard

before

happened

forward,

beams

had

At

overhead

fro

and

to

There

seemed

after

crashed

outside.

Jeremy

month

bloody beggars

smoky

heaved

the

it took

their throats.

of

cannikin

every

been

often

pirates,but
most

open

ho, hoi"

refrain

The

to

had

words

the

of

two

or

bloody beggars
the

the

course,

the grog

and

gale

BUCCANEER

BLACK

and

lookout

they

bore
be

must

up

was

level

sea

kept

stantly
con-

the northward,

watching

Delaware.

101

to

after,
days there-

two

slowly along

double

the

for

Bonnet

for
was

bound
southevi-

THE

dently gambling

given

the

up

Then

by

their eyes

shout
the

and

the

trim

bow.

port

the

with
below

servers

which

him

recapture
their lives
of

the

of

She

was

Royal James,
Her

low

cargoed.
Bonnet

No

the

ordered

could

be
extra

an

102

Jeremy
The
fleet
to

seas

be

to

so,

neither

for

would

Captain

against him.
at

set

latter's
that
seen

those

to

trifle

this

on

deck.

on

larger than
height

she

along

jib to

rest

tails
closer, the de-

and

visible

indicated

gun-

Castle

ever,

to

sulting
con-

and

it prove

closer

the

without

sail

after

and

New

soon

up

tle
gen-

ready

searching the

fightwent
were

excitement.

erratic

schooner-rigged,a

gunports
now

the

Should

ship became

free-board

Bob
of

be

to

that

pirate drew

but

deck

on

danger than

worse

if the

the other

also

of

one

on

the gunners

strain

their minds

the

As

all

with

arm

low, broad

ordnance.

Bonnet.

in

once

However,
score.

from

were

at

of

speed, but Herriot,

be

boys doubted

kill them

slowly

were

firmly believed

Bob

heaved

men

prepare

ship might

stranger

masthead.

pointing

glimpse

tremendous

the

his

tled
star-

were

ion
after-compan-

at

man

Captain, ordered

to

under

were

The

of the

of

direction

sails for greater

the

the

the schooner

as

had

friends

boys

two

shade

from

swell, they caught

on

the

the

places in

followed

They

Bob's

pursuit.

mid-afternoon

quick

of

idea

their

from

that

the chance

on

hot

one

BUCCANEER

BLACK

be

was

her

of

the

mast.

heavily
sides.

broken

out,

had

and
that

the

her

instead

course,

little there
soon

the

other

almost

this

As

half. Her

head

bowing along
than

hail her if he

took

he

the

to

his present

go

It

the

For

to

nearly
and

to

much

half

neck

pirates dared
get

and

sheets

was

be
an

into

speed

to
a

her

bows.

great

by nearly
she

went

faster

cannon

but

had

by

she swept

as

far

too

and

race,

the

it would

103

self
him-

half

fleeingship. His

They
have

of perfection.

one.

along

mile

closer

the

trimmed

men

hard

loss

till she

over

sloops ran

pointing
range.

astern

Herriot

the last hair's breadth

hour

risk

that

white

and

James

Royal

perhaps

and
not

the

he could, without

quickly as

the

fore

wind,

be

area

direction.

fast, while

and

the

southward

close range,

at

eased

quick

came

at
to

again

the

main

order

sail

running nearly parallelwith

orders

neck

her

that he would

kept

see

proved

in

change

to

could

it

wind

swells

what

imagined possible.Bonnet

the tiller. As

headway,

was

so

have

he realized

onward

of

the

crossingher

figured on

to

off the

over

would

one

increased

came

this

closer

boys

out,

the

to

wind,

being spread

filled

jib, which

balloon

the

so

West.

course

canvas

piece

new

the

off her

extra

some

it. The

cross

tack

opposite

ship perceived

immediately

flutter of

the port

on

running

from

came

was,
as

of

obliquely

direction, she veered

and

around

sloop brought

stranger's,would
As

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

to

would

almost
The

apart.
the

wind
have

developed

in
lost

into

chase

stern

The

batteries.

for

the

from

flew

brought

all assembled

it fluttered

as

him

with

For

instead

of

it easily to leeward

swept

her, without

flaw

for

most

The

wind.

silent

part

the rails, with

"Now

we'll

answered

here

breeze

other

had

hardly

it fell back

against

had

the

settled

progress

drew

sloop rapidly

in

the

against

curses,

trying

one

about

They lolled,

crew.

grumbling

or

the

from

drooped

rival's

over

bring

to

pirate sloop's deck

sails

limp

there

and

seemed

wind

when

interrupting her

glum despair came

The

good.

in the

least. A
the

now

of greeting

they

Jolly Roger

once

her

and

sudden

gaffs.A

howl

truck.

shrouds, hardly stirring.The

righted slowly

and

buccaneers,

Herriot, and

the

however,

once,

still

below

went

main

that

cheer.

second

fortune

bad

the

the

to

up

Jack

cheerful

their

wind.

then

it

hold

to

was

pirate flag.The

'em, lads I" roared

catch

the

top,

deck, gave

on

do

the British

at

James's

the black

up

in

luck

awhile

scowled

side
broad-

they possessed only

they could

best

position,hoping
Bonnet

since

useless

"

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

to

whistle

away

to

up

the

south.
had

Bonnet
and

and
the
look

the

been

pointings. Now
got

men

to

prize yet," said

alive

"

every

Herriot

talking to
he

walked

their feet with

the
one

Captain
of you
104

with
forward

jump.

short and

I" He

quick

tures
ges-

swiftly

"We'll

board

sharp. "Now

ordered

one

squad

THE

rail. The

weight

dead

for the time

rail
out

the

over

the

during

lull,

The

now.

main

boom

spray

and

excitement

her

Herriot

Bonnet

meant

he

smiled

would

sail. Hand

hand

the

more

her

rail. A

Bonnet

them

intently. Then

sloop

off

shouted.

dull

he
far

port.

sound

he

when

our

an

long

he

the

on

course

look

of

line

that

shorten

would

visible

over

gathered aft, busy

glass and

to

Herriot

scrutinized
to

of foam
almost

the

minute."
went

ease

up

Hardly
from

instantly by
time

the

there I" he

astern

gun
in

explosion. By
106

The

second

were

were

range

starboard, followed

ing
howl-

was

their rival, until

men

his

spout

her

gave

on.

with

before

got

crew

square

ahead,

yelled

"They've
try

of

her

them

lines

the

to

overhauled

seized

"They'll
spoken
to

of

the

skipped through the

tiny figures of

little knot

something.

to

they

five miles

or

overcome,

went

race

her under

run

over

once

grimly

stretching

again, nearly

long
in the

held

the

to

tellingagainst her

and

wet

was

four

being

James

Royal

mainsail

points, but

the

in

view

was

area

clung

lasted
bal-

below.

plain

buccaneer
as

the

of

and

sea

sail

light craft

other

gained

draft

advantage. Every

had

raced

in

of

handicap

with

at

that
had

way
leaning half-

Jeremy

each

deep lading

pirate'sshallow

black

and

with

now

was

Her

straightahead.

reef

Bob

fleeingship,which

The

the

seas

the

keep

to

vied

boiling

all

thirtyseamen

being.

and

amidships

of

served

side

the

over

BUCCANEER

BLACK

the

the
the

gunners

THE
on

the

come

ship had

cannon's

cutting a

deck

when
time

hand,

as

his

was

sloops

and

the

during

coolly at the splintered bulwark

the enemy,
I"
to

the

to

have

voice.

he gave

The

deck

as

the

at

leaped

and

the

the

the

jaws, dangled
broad

had

sail

drawn

her

rival's

pirate'shull far

allowed
"Fire

back

I" rang

at

side
broad-

them

boys' feet.

in

Looking

starboard

battery jarred

looked

they

her

He

under

less than

were

action.

an

sharp "Ready
gunners.

of

the

run.

operations

forward, then

alight,then

bellow

Even

away

waiting

their matches

thunderous
sea.

the

the

on

the

eers
cannon-

the fore hatch, sword

by

custom

overhead,

from

into

shift

to

the

James

came

had

net
pirate.Bon-

went

watching

it crashed
was

the

ordered

They

shot

had

close

went

two

third

the bits. Bonnet

by

up

The

deck.

the James

they

flagof

batteries.

yards apart

This

gun.

shot

stayed above

enemy's
abeam

and

quarter

his breath, then

Bob

hundred

nearly

piece again

the black

their

to

and

the

three

from

beneath

Jeremy

their

position.The

below

on

loaded

corner

swore

BUCCANEER

their port

to

over

the

BLACK

time

his clear
The

out

long,
the

over

enemy's maingaff, shot

loose

from

the

yards,
hal-

peak

crumpled, puffing out

wardly
awk-

in the breeze.
At

the

waterline
cheer

time

same

gaped
as

black

they

yell, taken

saw

up

wide
as

she

rent

in her

topped

their handiwork

by

all hands,

107

side

above
The

wave.

to

rose

when,

the

ners'
gun-

ening
deaf-

moment

later, the
the

other

BLACK

British

colors

the

ordered

around

and

All

pirates were

came

lined

for

the

Captain,

of white

asking

his

captured prize.

the bulwarks

with

that

treachery

any

their

deck, sullen

big, gray-bearded

cloth

newly

in token

muskets
be

might

but

and

piece

up

hailed

Bonnet

tended.
in-

hostile

unarmed,
held

man,

of surrender.

the

sloop

they ranged alongside,the

as

upon

the

behind

prepared

and

brought the buccaneer

beside

up

However,
crew

improvised spinnaker

in, then

flying-jibtaken

loaded,

aboard

flutteringdown

came

ship.

Herriot

the

BUCCANEER

THE

him,

name.

Peter

"Captain

Philadelphia

Mane

for Charles

the

of

waring
Town,"

sloop Francis,
the

answered

ing
coast-

skipper.
"And

sloop Royal James,"

Bonnet

will

carrying over

set

have

you

I shall

The
hulls

be

sails

pleased

were

superintended
food

kegs
in

schooner.
but

not

aboard.

of

the

coaster's

by

any

cargo
means

soon

both

of

the

to

108

side
alongcabin."

in the

sloops

and

and
of

hold
was

prize. She

their

Herriot

ropes.

of wine

the

Francis

poor

fast

transferring

casks

larder

you

all the

ship

are

we

the

"You

return.

my

together with

some

of

as

on

operation

powder,

in

into

entertain

to

lashed

the

The

As

of

command

him

gave

down

run

quickly

were

dozen

to

men

your

powder

in

Captain Thomas,

am

the
the

varied
carried

halfbest
black
one,
some

THE

BLACK

BUCCANEER

grain in bags forward,

chiefly woollens,

other

fine

some

from

brought

but

and

number

great

things of

mahogany

England.

proved

very

of bolts of
divers

chairs

and

wine

was

The

acceptable to

cluding
in-

sorts,

tables

newly

merely
the

cloth,

dental,
inci-

ever-thirsty

buccaneers.
That

lying

night, with
in irons

victory, and
the

on

once

the nine

men

the ballast,
more

rough half-harmony

of the Francis's

they

drank

Jeremy

and

Bob

of their

bellowings.

109

deep
fell

to

crew

their

asleep

to

CHAPTER

It

morning.

next

broke
riot

rail

the
about

the

Seven

men,

Francis.

set

about
It

there

they

grumbling

Royal
there

James
was

for

day

full

and

the

man

her

task

This

shot-

being

off, the

sails

starboard,

to

and

than

work
110

for

above

the

hand

and

harder
bow

every

that

fact

The

ever.

away

The

of

bits,

that

the
that

swearing

work

the

made

partly shot

day's

carousal.

In

Bob.

and

Jeremy

of

night

louder
was

again.

to

taken

regular fighting

short-handed

were

went

staggered

plug

to

closehauled

sloops,

Her-

way

off

told

were

ropes

day

showed

orgy,

under

needed

were

as

summoned

their

were

her

himself

was

get

and

westward.

and

be

to

and

soundings

from
to

seemed

off shore.

the

followed

always

call

Bonnet

the

two

terrible
was

the

to

seas

gray

pirate

really seaworthy.

was

beating

was

crew

the

the

and

up

The

The

lead.

others

and

together,

the

at

water.

finally accomplished,
run

land

Dunkin,

dozen

she

spied

preparing

under

bound

recovered

deck

before

holes

of

hardly

crew,

night,

the

fathoms

four

bare

heave

to

blow.

hastily

deck

on

came

the

to

lookout

tipsy

all

drifted

had

prize

the

cloudy

was

for

getting ready

whitened

breeze

easterly

STIFF

XVII

the
and

could

THE

be

spared rigging
in

taking
fo'c's'le

in

Herriot

the
the

of

the

handed

first it

reluctantly. At
hatches

under

took

they
of

in its

into

decent

Bonnet

called

aft

way

his

resumed
and

and

buccaneer

steady

the

passage

stairs

he

was

and

been

by

and

up

at

had

eyes
to

took

big

without
at

cabin.

from

it

two

111

it

put

on

Captain
He

made

had

just
him

Opposite

figureof Captain

Jeremy

said

was

went

under

bottles

closing the cupboard door,

so

place

come

Jeremy,"

wine-locker

the

had

Bonnet

turning. He

his guest.

stay

supply

the

Jeremy

slouched

time,

gave

table.

the wine,

"Bring

to

fresh

companion.

broad

the

them

they

noon

the
the

the

was

dered
or-

below

went

at

he
and

this task, when

with

from

up,"

and

flooding they

the

quietly,and

with

ing
dur-

bucket

for air and

up

entered

place

Manewaring.

As

him

facing Jeremy

along

running

sickened
to

ined.
imag-

once

had

five minutes

shape again. Hardly

and

lad

buckets

than

atmosphere,

weary

who

impossible for

was

more

Gradually

told

his

in

turns

water.

deck,

for

be

sickening stench

clean

and

each

the

filled

They

the

patching.

'uns, get below

sharply, and

the

boys,

two

well

the hatch

down

its

prevent

Meanwhile

could

as

caught

the

called

young

deck-brush.

state

he

as

to

gap

storm.

his head

and

helping

"Here,

of

case

thrust

place he

the

over

filthya

as

morning

forward

canvas

in

water

was

BUCCANEER

BLACK

the

the

ing
lookback
panion
com-

of Madeira.

Bonnet's

voice

cut

the air like

not

loud, but
lie I"

''You

silence. He

The
held

two

waring

was

and

clutched

"Come

sweat

and

pounding

places.Bonnet

in their

its

right hand,

his

the

On

point

stood

his forehead.

was

the

toward

gasped.

beard.

cabin

of

table

of

drop

Again

and

sweat

the

clock, the wash

hoarse

breathing

moved

with

his Maker

the

and

sort

of
of

seized

the

down

only

sounds

the

cornered

shudder,
the butt
112

trembling jerk
into

his

whispered
of the

lap.
into

the tick of
and

the

length

he

outside

man.

his

temple

were

seas

ward
to-

appeared

hand
a

gave

ran

of

tense

gesture

it fell back

pistol-butt.Then

the

his gray

pirate,with

the

tles
bot-

two

clock.

pistol.Manewaring's

other

edge

said

and

Jeremy

The

hand.

each

in

Mane-

drawn

face

upon

ing
cover-

before

table

pistol.His

by the cabin

on

quick I"

"

the

the

heart

with

idiotically,one

ticked

seconds

He

but

against the wall, hardly breathing, his

shrank

over

again. Nothing

head.

second

fine

and

tiptoed back

listened

motionless

man's
a

the closed

he

door

pistolin

other

the

through

room.

sat

men

cocked

gray

the

into

stepped

the

opened

hear

to

was

moment

knob

the

turning

before

for him

After

cabin.

of the

door

listening.There

waited,

and

enough

were

distinctness.

terrible

spoke

said.

he

what

was

he

words

two

with

pronounced

reply loud

no

The

knife.

shivered

Jeremy

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

At

the

name

of

pistoldesperately.

THE

Bonnet

had

"I shall

raised

BUCCANEER

his weapon,

three, then

count

"

"One
had

But

"

jerked

have
he

threw

flash

himself

the

deliberate

his

adversary,

the

table.

but

he saved

the

bottles

the ceiling.

to

fire,"said he in the

same

had

of

who

the

whimpered

and

the

him

hand.

from

The

he

of

duel

out

wine

met

but

from

heaved

over

the

to

way

the

aim

at

behind

limp,

went

managed

to

set

and

shaken

Captain's
the

body
into

rail without

his bunk

and

told

heard

dead

details

man

of sailcloth

ado.

Bob

the

what

lips.Under
the

the

Jeremy
story

the head

tell them

to

piece

more

at

men

own

of

it with

drank

of

Bonnet

Stede

out,

crowd

too

was

deck, sewed

on

took

knees

fallingand

glass of

orders
sailing-master's
carried

the
With

door.

grovelled

happened. Herriot, going below,

the

the

pirate

Jeremy's

staggered

boy

companion,

for

eyes,

table.

as

his

must

instant, and

panel

he shot him.

on

that

at

Fate

himself

in

intention

left

opponent

fired. Bonnet

and

the

the

to

himself

steady

of

his

spoke again

down

sureness

Then

Behind

poured

he

crashing through

went

of the

before

his muzzle
the

seen

shot

his

pointing

voice.

even

of

BLACK

the
was

and
made

between

chattering teeth.
There

was

action

where

silence
had

they ceased

on

sobered

the
his

ship
rough

quarreling and
113

that

afternoon.
to

company

talked

in

the

net's
Bon-

point

undertones,

THE

at

of

the

the

that

hours

"Brace

ril

scheme

of

brought

the past

on

rest

and

the back

he

most

fitful slumber.

his friend

had

The

as

was

he

rum

little. No

one

taken

his

wont

consumed
ever

heard

Bob's

114

bit

yourself
a

for the

ment
disappoint-

hoped,
low

Made

little

no

or

took

at

snug

last look

went

deal

seemed

He

lightcame,

and

when

ebb.

had

prescriptionof

needed.

him

of

I'll have

had
to

great

even

tuckered

cover

the

he

Bob

for

over,

clean

with

comfortable

was

Daggs

night before,
passed.

what

the

could

slept or woke,

and

on

morning."

courage

fever,

the

the back.

on

as

side of the berth, where

Pharaoh

very

of

sleep was

fell into
that

ashore

set

his determined

even

the verge

was

see

being

not

reached

in the

days, coupled

on

occupation

"You're

he

out

He

tonight. Maybe

little whether

be

dejected

usual

he

said.

tell you

to

to

cause

eyes.

too

was

the

"

work

up

more

nap'llhelp. Here,

your

cared

of

events

he

do

had

friendlypat

and

thought

Jeremy

boy

escape

Jeremy," he

rest

and

up

him

gave
up,

but

who

together. Finally

shyly, and

out,

their

when

his eyes

and

sympathetic

England

New

plan

to

try

their

hunched

with

him

watched

hope,

deck

discouraged, sat

companion,

young

slanted

glad enough

were

and

edge, his shoulders

floor. His

to

boys

two

Jeremy, tired

way.

bunk's

see

The

work.

the

about

in little knots

gathering
not

BUCCANEER

BLACK

of

grog
to

to

deck.

on

liquor the
was

being

aifect

sing, though

him
his

face, with

cruel

and

shroud
a

Trinidad

This

the fact that he

by

his

liquor clamped
effect the alcohol

that

will

the brain

disturbance
had

tipsy seamen
he

Today
would

beam,
to

care

tale of the
apparent

nearly
with

o'clock

to

his

The

neither

he

slouched

leisurelystretch

like

he

115

ward
him, the in-

after

clear

heads.
face

the

toward

privacy

awakened

walked

the
to

for

compensate

long

had

seething

long

by

rum

lighteyes,

of the shots

the

Through

not

shut

whose

one

in

his mouth

was

sound

effort of

sneering

figure upon

had

interest.
five

with

trespass.

duel

lasted

was

lips.The

liquor upon

slept around

lolled

his

ugliness.To

usually

when

his mind

the veil of those

of effect of

like

instinctive

Daggs, drunk,
of

rates
pi-

trap. Whatever

upon

and

foundland
New-

possible

time, and

any

The

legs steady

fuddle
lack

apparent

weather

however.

taken

the

made

was

sprung

had

thought. Behind

black

had

drink

stand

at

slack

among

thoughts passed

no

his

like

have

of Pharaoh

pit, one
the

jaws

head,

kept

in

root

no

his

to

go

would

talker

ruses.
the cho-

sober. From

reputation

no

may

because

apparent
did

was

he

known

was

head

whose

bucket.

sheet-iron

when

they were
he

of

climb

or

ward
for-

lean

rhythm

reeling deck

when

men

man

the

with

would

scar,

all appearances,

to

most
to

as

walk

well,

gallon as

fro

and

to

could

as

livid

its awful,

sway

He

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

no

and

in him

afternoon

more

the
one

the
any

till

fo'c's'le. Then
the

hatch,

and

down

peered

it.

to

his

send

forward
no

all the

at

the

else

one

he

the

in

was

the

on

hauled

by. He

where

he

it for

the

As

the

could

the

of

edge

into

the

he
he

He

see

about

heap

cloak, and

view.

The

of seaman's
came

from

of

some

buccaneer
gear

leather

and

site
oppo-

reason

he

pulled

the

boy

worked
cover

unlocked

coin

the lid

dirty
lifted
them

linen
out

dark

were

hide

farther

key

almost

pected
ex-

raised.

was

cloth, probably
all that

him.

came

of articles
After

pouch, quite heavy, Jeremy

116

to

out

number

beside

to

it with

Jeremy
of

nearer

lightfell.

more

as

stantly
in-

was

up

his chest

knew

distrust

to

his neck.

gold

laid

something

every

sound

it and

from

The

floor, where

before

and

nose.

disappointed. A garment

was

to

knelt

at

it.

scraping sound

moving,

pirate hauled

of the

took

to

and

The

middle

Then
which

the bunk

beneath
a

own

beside

straightened,he

and

broken

making

his

to

kneeling

by

busy

the

went

from

man

alert, for he had

his eyes.

all but

that

broken

seemed

Finally, satisfied

without

with

Daggs. Without
the

scended
de-

the

sea-chest

figureturned

man

on

he

from

his eyes
see

bunk,

every

side, and

port

heavy

opened

lay

him.

into

fo'c's'le,he

Jeremy's lightsleep was

close

before

turn,

deck

the

scanned

paused again, and

bulkhead.

after

sleeping place,
the berth

in

men

piercing glance

to

he

ladder.

half-lightbelow

the

In

about

Wheeling

craftily,looking
the

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

them

thought.

THE

The
It

BLACK

raised

man

have

must

it

However,

seemed,

for

second

There

was

could
rolled

the

the

of

At

see.

about

tied

with

him

and

and

traced

diagonally

to

upon

the
his

Then
for

line

time

spot

near

each

it

watched

intentness
for
over

full
his

every

thin

he

moment

reassured

the

not

he

planted

paper,

It

colored
dis-

was

see,

one

from

old.

stare

knelt,

then

moment,

one

ger
finside

silently meanwhile.
the

above
his thumb

ment
docu-

squarely

the top.

minutes,

lips.Now

with

his

racing
with

of the buccaneer

motion

that missed
two

could

hovered

hand

Jeremy's thoughts kept time

He

holding

way.

foot, his lips moving

before

Jeremy

had

along it, zigzagging

other

tom
bot-

the floor. With

spread it upon

preoccupied, and

he

Jeremy

examined

might. Daggs

he

it

on

in the

up,

opened

foot

shot.

edges, apparently quite

the

at

and

which

long

When

string and

perhaps

inscribed

was

he

as

the

worn

rummaged

string.Another
listened.

pistolsand

powder

pirate stood

last the

side
the floor be-

on

contents

the

on

after, it

was

two

for

he

as

other

under

laid

was

used

sort

he

removed

he

interval

document,

What

it

it in his hand.

spoilstaken

what

not

was

later

himself, he untied
square

portion of

this

box,

paper

peered

the

long

not

his

things.Next

pouch

of

weighed

moment

the other
a

carefullyand

been

voyage.

BUCCANEER

no

detail.

Daggs

had

been

crafty gloating smile

once

117

more

he

touched

heart.
fierce

quiet

playing
a

place

THE

the sheet

upon

muttered.

the

bunk

the

nature

doubt,

gleamed
it

whispered
the

after
locked

it and

broken

of

the

was

to

"Right there, she'll be,"

slowly rollingup

the

the box.

of

The

excitedly,for
document.

chart.

himself

nose

him.

before

Then,

replaced

BUCCANEER

BLACK

clambered

he

was

Beyond

"Solomon

as

eyes

the tall

upward

118

the

through

in
of

reasonable

Brig's treasure
figureof

boy
now

sure

any

he

paper,
the

he

man

the

I" he
with

hatch.

THE

New

England boy
the

remember
old

Sol

the

men

have

Brig

how

"

left of

would
did?

anybody

went

Bob
"We

must

try
it I" he

sight of

like

Bob

also

into

be. "If

to

excited

to

get

box,

should

we

with

it would

hunt

honor
had

and
no

to

course

put

both

treasure
to

as

to

in the

the paper

where

had

else

he

decided

of

that
but

matter

in their way.
120

key

to

to

pirate."

to

break

might

chart, though,"

any

much
one

the present

wait

on

besides, I

right
else."

knotty problem

for

should

we

he is

just as
or

is
be

would

honest

the

has,

get

of the

his character

see

noon.
after-

finished.

Then,

be

have

we

this solution

boys

shows

and

though

what

matter

to

agreed

racket.

hardly

just happen

the

what's

that

way

heavy

thing,even

finallyexplained, "why,

Jeremy

and

that's

doubtful

was

if

and

or

map

only

the

he

for

that

pirates^

man

seen

he

must

money,

see," he said, "the

big

no

had

Jeremy

It's

steal the

felt that

man's

of

hold

that

when

he

as

The

ship

chart

very

only

knows,

Daggs

neck.

open.

whole

don't

as

of that

the

tell all he

to

his

the chest
the

the

he

of all the

became

course,

exclaimed.

string 'round

raise

of

this. "You

possibilityof
break

the richest

that

gold

how

and

you

about

on,

lot of

saw

what

saw

on

was

always

I I think

said, off and

never

was

Daggs,

Brig's crew

it is." He

has

was

mast

know

I believe

more,

the

settled, "do

they were

as

there

it till he

who

Well,

soon

as

things Daggs

before

saved

BUCCANEER

BLACK

for

However,

some

not

of

they
dent
accito

let

THE

BLACK

BUCCANEER

opportunities slip,they

any

Daggs

constantly while

getting a

second
had

Jeremy
he

tumbled

regained

had

lifted

and

the

their business
task

of

be

was

of the
deck.

on

without

meet

relief when

to

he

went

of

out

for either

Jeremy

or

set

zeal.

It

of the

as

for

the

they
that

boys

The
the

when

day

to

wind.

hours

the James

up

to

whenever

unpleasant

felt

an

this

it

reason

to

be

was

ent
pres-

ever
When-

below.

shadowed

was

to

instinctive

by

nearly

untouched.

that had

storm

three
that

Of

itself in

spent
weather
and

her

met

racing

followed

and

prize stood

the northeastward

with

quarter.
121

the

roughened

Captain Manewaring

have
Fair

of

aware

nose

be. For

might

difficult

too

he

anything

the

to

sure.

threatened

seemed
of

were

been

pirate'sgoing

case

so

happened

days the mysterious chest remained

the

not

was

sight.For

lad

about

themselves

was

eye

had

before
went

always

shiver. Likewise

he left the dcek

Bob

boys

uneasiness

day

the broken

with

of

more,

had

sinister

the fact

note

much

man

His

matter

great

no

with

The

expected. They

the presence
he

usual.

once

of

spiritswhen

pall

all the

ship

sobered

men,

watching

might

as

the

over

as

The

hope

document.

and

strength

morning.

next

hung

both

the

in

awake,

was

Pharaoh

watch

to

of the treasured

glimpse

out

which

he

resolved

his sudden
clouds
for

and

on

end

gusts

forty-eight

off the coast,

the wind

sea

on

ing
head-

the port

THE

sufferingfrom

got
be

rich

I'll

prize in

dogs

gay
see

is

the

half

the

the
of

Most

be sung.
for

thanked

thought

of

The
came

the

occurred

day

rest
on

grog

bottle

when

his

Let's
and
the

case

they

out
as

night

of

could

move

careless, ugly self. His

two
122

to

have

fall.

Only

sail the

been

pigs

longer,

no

to

ruses
cho-

ship.

when

he

in had

the

storm.

woke

crew

to

kins
the canni-

it like

weather

fair

the

at

breakfast

sleep below.

their drunken

usual,

settled

for the usual

enough

they might
of the

few

snored
deck

and

and

unending procession.

an

for

delighted

darkness

they happened

stars

with

piratesswilled

stayed sober

in
a

drunk

till

nothing

men

Jeremy

were

of the

lay helpless where

three

had

liquor available

much

but

Next

extra

of the hold

out

Hardly

spigot in

the

stopped

orgy

old

"we've

coming.

one

hailed

rolled

was

and

bare

appeared,

square

was

aboard

to

too

was

to

news

rum

men

back

came

There

he

as

the hands

over

fo'c's'le table.

the

before

cabin

mast

cheering.A keg
on

second

deck, the

on

richer

tonight.Give

all

monly
com-

changed."

Before

set

came

called,

fist and

our

in the

you

watch

he

Herriot,"

"Here,

By night of the

and

gloom

that

his eye.

lightin

reckless

brooding,

and

haggard

spells of reaction

his misdeeds.

off his

cast

the

of

one

followed

day he

below,

remained

had

Bonnet

BUCCANEER

BLACK

outward

young

eye

enemies

time.

Daggs

quite his
watched

had

taken

helped

hours

the
woke

and

found
far

chest

him.

of

out

below,

after another

himself

dragged

bunks

in the

Bob.

broken

watching
that

suspected
fo'c's'le

half

the

meant

outside

his

box
A

ladder.
close

corner

to

done

mouth

his

to
to

the

gun

he

the

with

man

for hours

as

soon

and

the

as

mouth

hiding place

Bob's

deck.

sharply

whistled

ducked

lower

He

heard

descending

steps
taken

observation

close

from

dark

slouching form

the

of

the table.

long

set

to

and

gave

work.

He

quickly had
the

upon

the

shout

"Sail

ho!"

above, and

from
was

place

the chest open

He

had

turned
silent

and

just

he
its
rolled
un-

made

him

being passed

from

the hatch

already

123

he

vey
sur-

proceeded just as

planking.

when

for his cautious

time

Standing perfectly still

hips

and

feet.

his

presently

the

before

the chart

leap

heard

took

spread

contents

the

below

floor disclosed

the

from

scrutinybefore
had

comfort
dis-

for

waited

uneasily

in

he

guarded

buccaneer

body

the

slipped behind
and

seen

go

been

and

of the fo'c's'le.
his

had

to

in

Daggs standing by
The

growl

Jeremy, going

angle

the decks

before

hour

an

behind

bow

boys

have

must

close

tune

to

empty.

was

Jeremy
to

The

he

the buccaneers

He

empty.

dark

signal from
nose

deck

on

As

of

By mid-afternoon

all the
up

had

he

drink

Jeremy's previous discovery.

to

by, one

went

the

that

closely,for they suspected

him

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

there

were

men

on

the ladder. In
threw

the

clothes
his

in

hand.

looked

and

flushed
and

opportunity

hither
hand
cabin.

The
the

main

trough
after

as

her

prey

was

cutlasses

found

an

hiding place

later, he

be

to

west

and

waves

at

found

he had

done

Herriot's

easy

and

busy

Bob

and

in

mislaid

breeze, her

sails

stubby wings
to

swung

bent

the

Bowing
swept

of

white

starboard

big jib

her

head

by,

the

dizzy speed. The

124

spread

to

deep
black
crew

the

in hot

and

three miles

some

ran

giving

ward.
lee-

to

driving straightto

was

spar

They

commands,

canvas

the

For

seen.

deck.

on

all her

under

was

foresail.
the

their

Jeremy

of the

pied
preoccu-

There

act.
out

get

stood

and

were

fetching something

or

jury

foot

and

to

of what

at

sides like the broad,

foremast

sailors

fleeingship

his

his

notice

still held

box

the

hands

The

large sloop, visible

strong

had

of

top

on

much

James

of

of

account

was

rope

The

pursuit

crowd

minute

thither

and
at

descending

out

brief

there

present

the

at

he

paper

rest.

deck

on

whispered

he

to

crawl

to

like the

Going

while

in the confusion

pistols,and

himself

indecision,

swaying.

general scurrying of
and

of

seemed

none

loose

second

it in

thrust

the

it. The

his shoulder

he

erect,

shoved

and

after

arms

After

over

seamen,

his bunk

under

small

Daggs half-pushed,half-

of haste,

fever

chest

and

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

fore
be-

sea

on

owl.

both
net
Bon-

from

the

balance

his

into

every

sloop

ran

gathered

BLACK

THE

the

along

drawing

were

last

At

moment.

to

hundred

yards

could

see

the

desperately at
ordered

Herriot

But
and

the

splash
the

over

bellowed

As

order
at

deck.

went

the

corner

it

eagerly over
It

was,

crudely

was

possibly

There

was

with

very

had

cannon

waited

grew

in

of

keg

for
cloud

had

powder

perceived it, they

port

deck

gun

the rail

howling

that all

saw

board.

to

quietly below,

way

Daggs'

of the

done

after

were

The
the

at

defiance
deck

on

arm.

to

had
in
a

berth.

piece of

Jeremy

as

flare of fire

prepared
the

Jeremy

they

as

and

along

up

their

Englander

or

side.
broad-

they

as

smoke

gun

from

up

for

her

the buccaneers

hurrahs

Bob's

made

They

thick

The

as

all lined

touched

Bonnet

opponent's

that

pirate,but

shot,

the merchantman.

and

or

the

at

swarmed
and

her

they

aft, working

outward,

from

five

"

enemy

starboard

to

swerved
up

the

moment

mile

in

game

swivel-cannon.

it seemed

soon

hoarse

gunners

off

half

huddled

men

stand

went

the

of

enemy's

exploded.

of

of

moment

discharged

been

Aboard

breech

to

report

For

part.

astern.

the James

as

loud

within

knot

the

on

perceptibly from

up

were

they

close

"

small

silent, intent

bows,

wet

They

hand.

BUCCANEER

From

paper.

pulled

expected,

beneath
Both

it into
a

chart.

little

badly

writing
125

upon

it, and

it protruded

light.

The

fashioned

New

boys knelt

the

ink, applied it seemed

very

the

and

drawing

with

stick,

quill-pen.
this of

the

raggedest

the chart

That

of

was

the

in

tell where

seven

coast

some

it

seas

"Watter"

word
the

the seaward

closed

of the
It

required

he

"How

had.

on

up

anchor,

and

small

land,
in-

distance
for

except

cardinal

points

longitude

with

"

and

round

again, "And

how

cove

the

we

it looks."

bit
to
cross

He

over," he
the
is

Not

do, and

can

measured

joint of

the middle

and

his

two

126

faced

thought
the

glum.
it

turned

the

even

over.

tude
lati-

said

that's
the

thing

emy,
Jer-

ber
remem-

length

of

forefinger."Three

counted.

northwest."

ine
exam-

looked

printed. "Well,"

were

thing

the

where

know

clue.

no

to

and

up

voiced

feverishlyand

gave

lads

two

his head

shook

back

yellow

exactly

that

An

looked

to

we

the paper

finally,"one

four

the

for

They

are

Bob

seized

and

bay

mark.

and

asked.

he

Its soiled

"

single

bay.

given,

disappointed. Jeremy

both

Then

the

west

high

indicatingthe

time

great

no

line

other

which
is?"

and

compass.

every

each

letters

and

arrow

sheet.

The

short

deep,

dot

shore

information

the

the

the

end.
a

northern

parallel lines

two

completed
crossed

the

near

between

cross

of

little northeast

drawn

roughly

beside

written

was

and

paper

southern

or

be.

might

certain.

was

irregular bay occupied the central part of

Two
east
long promontories jutting from
nearly

it bore

disappointment

their intense

To

sort.
to

name

no

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

"Anchorage
Then,

in

measuring

northwest
finger-joints

of

fell

man

fightingand

died

blood, this wholesale

came

as

ruthless

hands.

It

down

under

Yankee

boy

and

'It's all
I

came

almost

the

at

The

meant

than
her

once

the

and
now

stern

what

fell into

such

Bob's

at

to

Delaware

The

tumbled

again
the

panion
com-

how

know

stammered

call

no

went

senses

vigorously. 'T

you've

hand-to-

behind

up

be

ogy.
apolashamed.

lad, who

had

being guilty of swooning

merchant

sloop, felt

Jeremy's words,

and

vast

lief
re-

quickly

got

more.

cleared

now

beam,

the

shouts
was

but

damaged

that
little

had

her

Captain

Bonnet

the

larger than

128

Fortune

said

to

of

no

her

from

came

carried

of bodies

inventory

an

stern-chaser.

declared

deck

enemy's

taking

were

if the

anything. She

length

From

heard

and

cargo,

the

that

and

his

to

him

to

answer

myself."

pirates had

sloop's

at

he

blood

and

him

distressed

as

his feet

upon

in

fate

sailor

fainted

men
sea-

each

sight of

came

propped

pillage of

when

in

had

he

right and
it

near

been
as

When

feel," he said

you

he

of

at

the

who

first

howling pack

rubbing

was

stared

gallant

last merchant

the

as

arms.

They
of

two

sight

of

men

Bob's

was

sea-battle, and
the

all honest

and

the

band

they thought

as

them

Jeremy's

of

the

To

with

revolting climax.

hand

the

sickened

murder

other, white-faced
threatened

in hand.

sword

prisoners, already

young

into

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

of
his

white
New

hold

the James

armament

The

the

other
letters

Castle.

sailing-master

THE

as

they

had

BLACK

returned

been

in

BUCCANEER

the rail,Jeremy

over

light cargo

and

as

rich

and

was

not

was

that

gathered

she

prize

as

the Francis.
The

latter

off and

the

waiting

on

killed

ship had

and

The

sloop

was

his

and

of the Francis
work

their

another

seven

who

had

pirate. He

for

this

by

despite the fact

life. As

the

under

he
he

of

the

crew

aboard, the notorious

glitterin
his

under

and

even

"You
you

But

are

if

distance
water

had

Francis

For

he

men

them

to

Herriot

and

James

self,
him-

skipper,
late

so

before

them

in

going

with

kept them
he

George
the

sea

up

faced

while

captured

able

an

the

to

lined

buccaneer

the

set

of

taken

board

freed

really

was

of

her

sail the

to

crew

newly

command

men

able-bodied

chains, and

piercing scrutiny.Then

cold

wriggling

spoke,

his

voice

dangerous.
will
wise
you

does

sooner

of

his eyes.

in

undertook

that

on

Bonnet

been

time

crew

two

the

by transferringto
seamen.

ship

own

that

the

standing

lost

dozen

manning

finallysettled

Dunkin

prize

scarce

of

question

had

fight,so

the

numbered

now

up

Bonnet

in the

without

Royal James,

men.

come

for orders.

hurt

several

Francis,

now

than

be

enough

sloop

I will

without

not

to

Herriot's

come

draw

orders.

mutiny

to

away

parley. There

you
are

and

I think

with

it, remember

after

129

to

try

undertake

should
your

Mr.

under

that

blow

no

mile's

one

over

him.

you

just enough

out

sails

left aboard
Over

you

darkness

As

ship to keep headway

your

with

deepened

steersmen

hailed

night.Bob

and

subdued.

But

each

Jeremy

fell

lightbreeze.

sorrows

close

their bunks

ward
west-

that

the

which

afternoon.

And

and

gloomy

lightened by

the

he

would

use

he

had

were

of

130

so

out

frequently through the

somewhere,

asleep.

sloops set

keeping

to

went

Jeremy's

that

three

other

the chart, the outline

in his memory

the

canvas,

feeling that sometime,

for

in

I"

now

shortened

under

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

find

firmly

fixed

wondering how,

he

XIX

CHAPTER

weather

fair

]/" 'ii'N^HE

fleet

little

cruised

when

The

pirate

divide

the

cumbersome

in

quarrels
boys

oif with

till the

The

whippings

aboard

ship

of

lot

but

his

He
and

the

as

Dunkin.

one

necessarily

hope

in

As

of

the

fairest

for Bob,

had

ceased

accorded

be

to

came

heart

he

had

the

there

was

that

office

would

so

the

far

132

escaped

of
all

on

the

in

his lieutenancy

the

executive

around,

pany
com-

injustice

Since

him.

his

ally.
occasion-

Bonnet's

great

recognized

only

end

prize-sloop, however,

Monday,

day,

Jeremy's

felt any

never

lives

tered
adminis-

not

was

sidered
con-

boys'

been

in

men

have

got

incident.

of

rope's

Jeremy

one

part

always

with

in

the

for

bo's'n, it

As

lay

had

when

regular

to

Dunkin

whipping

might

days, had

Jeremy

and

and

those

aboard
had

words

were

duty

treatment

and

which

in

was

Bob

but

and

it easy,

"Take

to

win,

to

high

were

with

agreeable

Virginia

helped

over."

hard

almost

by George
right

aside

erly
south-

then

impatience

had

Hopes

the

days

the

up

their

of

they

temper.

sharin's

minimum

their

picked

spite

put

several

by south,

booty

quickly

were

wait

"

in

fairly good

had

crew,

for

and
west

they

Capes.

kept

held

very

be

bo's'n

ment,
punishthe

seas

secret

ten.
forgot-

lash, it being

understood
the

day

that

wore

he

About

the

at

shouted
been

for

snoozing
roused

was

the

order.

deal

of

jerked

the

in

the

his

boy

in

the

into

the

air.

of

of

this

Bob

sailors had

had

slung

and

feet

been

while

of

aware

was

hands

here

ship! Come

to

pulled

the

ring in

off

his

instant

Bob

and

of

the

executioner

and

squared

said

indignity
spat

tle
lit-

Cap'n's

the

not

at

133

one

interval

an

should

do

side

the

finallyprevailed
from

the

took
you

of

of his

fear

punishment.

away,

his

clothes

the

disemboweling

his hands,

on

angry

tied

and

right and

white,

of

mate

do, the

was

who

his feet. "Shiver

he, grinning

light

I" Before

now

After

there

back,

trembling

the

bar

the deck.

by threatening the
was

his

here, you

to

capstan

the

scarred

pup,"

meant

demanded

because

rope

they

over

and

out

group,

capstan,

pirates quarrelled over

whipping. Daggs
rivals.

what

him

the

to

good

you're the bloomin'

kill later, that

to

you

was

because

think

he

carrying out

"See

brows.

runt," he hissed, "don't

savin'

the

had

when

reached

Daggs

center

scowling

under

in

time

own

ble,
trou-

Bob

water.

sail, and

the

of

shade

buccaneers,

there
appeared finally,

he

swearing

drinking

of

safe.

was

still gave

which

bows

bucket

When

agleam

eyes

in the

he

of

gang

As

uous
inconspic-

as

that

think

to

however,

last, took

at

lad remained

began

rent

ordinary ship'sboy.

an

the Yankee

on,

mid-afternoon,

working

not

was

possible,and

as

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

but

The

heavy

cowardly

his

twisted

mouth.
hard

the

with

Then

down

hemp

times

nearly

lost consciousness

blows.

When

that

welts

Long

whelp

T'

crowd

the

pitiful,set
"You

one

the

red

drops

on

kill the

"Til

his

heavy

"Daggs"

who

"Daggs,
The

voice

made

at

was

"Gray, put

turned
more

only
on

bread

his heel

and
and

Jeremy's life

nose.

gered
stag-

was

up

and

the

any.
mahogdrew

Jeremy's head.
close

by

his side.

sloop?"

fell

for

over,

thing of

more

Stede

this kind

you," said the Captain sharply,

and

gets

"One

his elbow.

I'll maroon

he

at

nearly

and

aboard, and
added,

swing

bo's'n of this

you

man

boiled

the air from

cut

whirled

man

Bonnet

"

deck, then

whispered hoarsely and

he
a

the

Bob's

at

the color of old

turned

for

rope

look

to

up

the broken

cried. The
his rage

Then

boy,"

was

with

man

I" he

instant.

an

the

skin of his neck

tanned

back

took

coward

great
for

He

face

and

below

brought

capstan.

to

other

that

went

boy

and

stare

blazing

turned

where's

"Now,

crossed

drip red

to

light.The

to

the

at

beginning

wooden

the

over

Daggs. Somebody

panted

dragged Jeremy

twitching

back.

of the

breath

of

lack

"

last he

At

count.

for

ceased

and

shoulders

torturingfire

the

under

were

his

recrossed

and

lost

the lad

"

brought

he

arm

naked

boy's

buccaneer

hung limp

his victim
bar.

the

the

on

of his

whirl

vicious

twice, three

once,

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

was

this
water

in irons

man

for
back

went

saved

134

by

five
to

and

days

I" Then

the cabin.

the

that

see

So

Captain's

he
once

whim.

THE

dunes,

tween

two

helm,

headed
of

One
the

the

through

into

at

the

spare
without

wide

the

to

had

they

come

in Carolina.

River

he

coast

getting

when

Bonnet

need

of

of

into

the

that

fear

to

leave

both

said

to

neck

pirates
with

terrible

to

entered
Francis
hours

several

in

for

one

boys

stories

of

the

as

to

in

had

been

done

woods

who
last

for
had

personally
the

red

other, but

men's

136

he

most
al-

an

day,

was

in

no

the

hear, he added,
the

lads

lifetime,

would
Bob

cruelty

to

enough

seen

him

effect
the

there

these

as

able

could

nearby

slight chance

be

were

Fear

region,

that

they

to

the

men

that

that

soon

as

of

them

Cape

wild

very

they

the

knew

would

of his

Indians

his friend

he
a

ship." Jeremy,
and

of

heard

justified later

one

so

Bob

mouth

was

if

the

Indians
the

to

fathom

Fortune

crew,

there

seemed

shackling

many

it

that

and

Chesapeake. Turning
"Too

finally passed
scant

wait

to

what

safety, even

to

This

escape.

pirate chief

deeply-laden

the

talk

From

believed

unsettled,
of

had

in and

cried

and

float her.

to

Listening
say

the

the

opening.

lead

The

The

place.

but

this

and

with

lagoon,

difficulty,

tide

channel

shallowest

grounded midway
the

the

taken

now

the

heaved

ship progressed.

of

left

the

to

the

as

had

sloop cautiously for

constantly

men

who

Bonnet,

and

the

soundings

kept

BUCCANEER

BLACK

and

risk

had

try
of
marked
re-

his

heard

did

not

THE

him.

with

agree

better

*'We'd

three

of the

Francis

off

was

for

estuary
their

Next

their

planking,

the bar

hunt

to

overtook,

the

did

into

run

the

day

repair

weeks

the

went

hard

the

and

cured
se-

could

the

of that

supply
forward
were

back

of lumber

the

undelayed,
almost

137

ready

up

in

men

when

much

too

cupied
oc-

river-mouth
for

thing

thus

two

ashore

was

broken

patching.

they quickly

presently. The

and

over

southward

the

swam

to

that

their

out

his

which

Bonnet

unfortunate

an

but

prize

James

to

in

all

up

fight.The

and

flag,and

by

do

to

the

refitting

the

come

Royal

thereafter

used

night

overboard

was

sloops

up

and

they

at

to

had

fishingshallop

river-mouth

the fresh

With

where

wherewithal

the

black

so,

the

as

miles

days

easy

captured without

It
do

not

hot

they

took

Bonnet

getting

chase.

give

soon

two

water,

many

when

shallop jumped
saw

ough
thor-

they proceeded

nearly

not

was

small

and

in

of

for

and

of

of

prisoners toiled

for

cruise

they sighted

he

tide.
and

region

As

ways.

in shallow

ships. Lumber

desolate

After

various

distance

morning

the

they

for

wait

needed

and

leaky

bar, therefore,

the

low

at

pirates and

spare

in

vessels

be careened

the

and

aboard

stay

sloops were

overhauling

of

best

chance," he argued.

All

the

BUCCANEER

BLACK

that

him

shallop
the

to

was

day.

next

secured, the work

and
for

within
sea

again.

few

XX

CHAPTER

been

HAD

IT

the

pirate

bars

of the

first

those

into

white

of

stretched
half

the

seamen

contrived

to

The

days

good

deal

like

or

It

and

it seemed
than
On

the

of

lying

and

the

over

third

preferable
nothing

at

to

tion
sugges-

had

set,

deck

from

the

planks,

bare

the

after

and

away

the

long,

One

boys,

two

work

as

labor

to

the

them

sweat

the

for

cleaning

to

Only

comfort.

washing

matter

hand.

oven.

on

in reasonable

vessels, and

ing
hot-look-

offered
sun

the

blazed

pitilesssun

either

down

on

Jeremy

flats and

the

for

idle, for the blistering sun

were

hardly pleasant.

baker's

in hard

small

was

but

the

skill, it fell frequently

Bob.

and

distant

spent

all three

aboard

Bob

on

When

corner

sleep
of

To

Wide

mile

heat

and

were

oaks

away

it sufficed

of

they sought

snoring

deck.

the

coolness.

held

live

still afternoons
of

dunes

tossing night

uneventful

long

green

fo'c's'le

that

were

when

September

the

River.

Fear

of woods

the line

sighted

Cape

corner

every

of

beginning

had

fleet

days

the

Through

the

about

had

most
to

be

requiring
lot

of

whether
allowed
over

part.

no

Jeremy

done
cial
spe-

and

they toiled
no

respite

something

ful
use-

all.

day after the

138

return

of

the James

from

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

with

discontented

the

of

edge

hours

for

tarring ropes

he

"Bob,"

said

in

voice

doesn't

going

to

the

to

away

in

frown.

of their

any

if

away

run

mates
shipthing
some-

soon."

happen

shot, like

be

"You'll

for

low

too

I'm

hear, "Bob,

to

looked

and

eyebrows puckered

his

and

scraping

end, straightened his back

on

grunt

woods,

been

had

who

foraging trip,Jeremy,

her

the

not," answered

as

ware
Dela-

boy.

to

Bob

be

true

of the

words

for

had

been

think
his

that

trying

his friend

the

learned

nothing, but argued,

exaggerated
leave

don't

plan

to

the

if he

afraid

not

Will

are

talk

treated
but

the

right.That
these

to

try

from

the

fact

that

that he had
not

it."

net
Bon-

ably
prob-

wishing

help it,he agreed

139

for

go

previous acquaintance

danger. Finally,

for the present.

Tusca-

language,

same

ought

frighten them,
could

after

Indians

mayhap

would
we

the

know

you

their

of

Indians,

"It's the

you've known,

They
you

they

as

ones

admitted

Jeremy
stood

long

say

here. I don't

down

curses

as

different.

those

and

You

woods.

them

are

roras

It

shot.

had, right now.

"I'm

moment.

finally said.

he

the

into
trust

may

for

thought

catching us,"
and

we've

I'm

"If

tonightT'

come

we're

be

life, I'd rather

all my

chance

best

like the

looks
you

here

aboard

stay

replied doggedly.

let it be," he

shot

"Well,

to

to

don
aban-

BLACK

THE

worked

They
then

it

biscuit.

and

sunset.

glide by

below

blurs

quivering
the

Bob,

tired

deck.

The

stretched
the

of

coming

hard

fell

the

labor

into half-dreams

He

have

would

little time
the

over

broad
As

his

crept

close

was

lagoon, cut

of stars,

the

like

with

up

bunks,

dead

some

After

men.

lulled

nodded.

bered
slum-

driftingoff

went

water

the

on

regular watch

He

awake.

keep

to

began

with

him

raised

The

so

him

close

the

across

double

the

that

cry

night

of

another

border.

it,

gentle

again, soothing his drowsy

"

sharp

head

why,

in

last small

at

pillowed

in

the

even

His

sleep

to

taken
the

head

below

the soft black

not

sluggish

sweltering lagoon.

Jeremy's thoughts

knew

water-sounds

the

across

day

unending whisper.

striving,he

reflections

planking, lay

as

the

rail, till

salt-

eaten,

were

watched

asleep, his

of the

their

faint breeze, sprung

pirates, some
on

rations

the canted

night,blew

out,

for

went

coarse

Jeremy

ripples.A

undisturbed.

its

the

light,the

of

in the

gleam

to

rope-tarring till supper-time,

When

nearly

was

water

the

at

wearily, stretching,and

rose

horse

BUCCANEER

ears.

moment

But

in

that

heron, flyinghigh

air and

the

startled

boy

awake.
he

stared

astretch

senses

there

was

sloop. One
at

off

faint
of

the

the instant

the dim

over

for

repetitionof

splashing
starpools
he turned
140

in
was

to

of

whiteness

the

that

water

blotted

look

over

the

bars,

weird
close

out

call,
to

the

ness
in black-

the rail. The

boy's heart
mouth.

seemed

of

of

southern

them

rail and

stood

the

dark

his breath

lapping
a

his

said

the white

and

at

his

old

blotch.

It

could

boy

the

"Better

not

There

till his head

the

the

of

one

other

"Ay," replied Jeremy.

to

be

Then

the

with

there?"

lad

of

aware

familiar

voice

it's Job

"

features

There

I"

of

was

Job's
with

contact

take

you

instant

an

ports.

level

was

the

hand
it.

aboard," whispered Jeremy.

for

gun

became
a

haps
per-

but

sound

gloom.
in

here. Can

silence

into

fast. For

homely

came

come

deck

on

was

in

to

try

all

"They're

woodwork

in
to

bulging

the side, and

over

plied

softly along the side,

the

see

had

Jeremy

"

friend, pale through the

feelingalong

"Is

he

bumped

rope-end dragging

hold

and

heard

"Jeremy

name.

last the

short

lagoon. Then

driftingclose, and

whispering

eyes

sight nor

no

for he

could, he moved

his

over,

coming
was

of the

water

whiteness

loose

staring

there

minute

he

quietly as

the

and

pirates who

the

from

of his

roof

his mind,

alligatorscrossed

As

waters.

beating against the

be

to

Thoughts

heard

had

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

he

us

off?"

felt for

as

Job

he

raised

himself

deck.
asked.

"He's

here

but

he

will

have

wakened."

"Go

to

and

him,"
The

him

boy

Job's
did

as

he

his hand.

Begin squeezing

till he opens

harder

press
was

take

and

his eyes.

Don't

like,
softtle
star-

admonition.
was

bid. A

141

gentle grip on

the Dela-

in

whispering
the

lad

there

in

then

first one,
the

to

chance

let himself

that

swimming

The

tall

ex-pirate crawled

lead

and

they followed
creek.

another

across

for their

behind

close

boys
south

There

they came
bottom

into

the

When
behind

them.
voice

"Lucky

Job

you

did, lad," he

said.

'T

an'

the

came

didn't

142

to
to

the
the
stop

estuary,

The

up.

away

run,

narrow

the

seaman

the

into

boys
down

stream

creek.

miles

his

on

through
up

beside

the

three

rested

stood

mile

quickly pulling

put

came

good

the
and

enough

runaways

bundled

of

dune

to

dinghy, pulled

was

in

began
a

panting

the water,

had

Job

made

his

sharp windings
they

far

was

necessary.

sand

over

now

and

They

small

ing
hold-

last.

the

upon

were

unheard

and

astern,

along

His

rail and

water

hardly

quickly

in the reeds

upon

the boat

They

allowed

the

was

out

him

him.

he

before

for breath.

ran

be

flightto

the

to

derstood
un-

swim, though the sloop

both

could

Bob

escape.

Job's

quietly down,

slipped into

Jeremy

rope.

to

by

of

comrade

returned

the other

the beach

near

had

they

easy

"

rewarded

was

his

told

They

Luckily they
so

he

sh!

"

was

that's

"Bob,

word

he

moment.

Jeremy

senses.

say

*?" When

awake

the

and

presence

don't

"

comprehension,

of

nod

Bob

up.

you

are

"

his

to

cool, steady undertone,

wake

"

him

palm brought

lad's

ware

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

oars

hot
to

know

of

sand

and

to

catch

his breath.

dark,

water

pantingly.

the rail the way

just how

was

you
to

THE
reach
was

best

you.

When

boy,

an'

be

gettin' on

back

Once

task

only by

the

faint

swirl

water

the

of

nearly

was

voices

ahead.

gloom
Rowland"

Bob

and

the

open

silence
muffled

Not

that

bowed

his

fell, broken
and

oars

boys awake,

they

distance.

hail

tall black

ahoy!

What

luck?'

the

in under

ran

and

as

soon

their

and

of

out

deliverer

the
Job

there.

"All's

skiff

by
mass

well,"

ship'scounter.

the

as

it

and

roused

were

repeated. "Oh,

was

the

thrill of

the

even

tired

we'd

"

find

singlemoving light rose

The

Jeremy

line

fast

made

was

plied
re-

scrambled

to

up

port.

There

they

the farther

end.

in his

in

arms

Delaware

moving
into

instant, and
lad

hugged

great

his

fro of lanterns,

form

the

door

at

Curtis

of Bob

boy though

father

denly
sud-

cabin, and

through

the tattered

had

and

to

the

half-clad, burst
He

an

ushered

were

tall man,

and

shouting

was

as

the

the

two

great

Job, and
let down

the

Yankee

it

see

may

they

soon

sides.

later

no

boat

was

the

hour

showed

of

right.Well

big

and

sound

keep

calling at

which

on

hand

along

an

the

more

in

could

escape

tellin' how

no

I could

side

all

things was

"

the

to

the

to

came

you

knew

you're gone."

BUCCANEER

BLACK

he

was,

ecstaticallyand

wept.
Job

and

reunion,
made

were

vain

Jeremy, pleased
hardly
attempt

as

comfortable
to

withdraw
143

they
in

were

to

see

its presence

gracefully.The

this
and
mer-

BLACK

THE

chant

"Here,
hand

pair

be

I've

had

put

in

told

you've
of

'em

aboard, Fm
His

he showed

in

at

themselves
never

sleptin

gingerly

for

exhilaration
go to

mournful

he,

homespun

to

too,

wall

piest
hapthat

Jeremy

sunburn

the

on

have

to

The

two

of

more.

he

could

boys

and

berths, built

sheets.

in his whole

for

the

how

throw

himself

of his father's

144

breast.

it

moved

last their

At

lads

rescued

long

had

Jeremy

Jeremy's last thought

wondered

make

to

life,and

hurting something.
enough

left, after

were

proceeded

linen

three,

other

the

of roomy

couple

the

luxury

subsided

as

is

characters

joined by

was

between

fear

one

the

at

other.

much

so

you

this tall lad

"Good-night,"

such

sleep once

the

one

I"

of the cabin.

snug

with

this is the

man,

desperate

laughter

final boisterous

Bob

to

with

owe

of. Look

me

the way

the end

figures.And

pretty

"

of

as

in years.

afraid

roar

yet. Gad,

leave

to

try

you

it can't

cried, holding

the door.

reach

could

they

seizing the ex-pirate'sarm

and

hour

that

he

Rowland,"

"Don't

before

after them

was

BUCCANEER

was

must

against

the

to

half-

be

fore
be-

broad

XXI

CHAPTER

HEN

and

they

woke

lurch

of

There

to

and

out

get

Indian

would

deck

the

who
gun

carronade
his

chief

pride

was

have

acted

took

crews,

experience

swivel

well-greased

gun

that

set
one

on

built

been

main

the

Her

by

picked

men,

for

fighting ability.

mate

and

boys proudly

bearings
could
145

so

charge

in full

was

each

from

one

in

His

the

bows.

finely adjusted
aim

big

improvement
devised.

had

ingenuity

man

the

faced

augmented

good

long nine-pounder

the

was

new

overhead.

was

explaining
or

pearance,
ap-

her

in

that

so

her

to

had

rail

deck, open

all

impatient

grimly

mariners

the

the

was

her

six feet,

gun

another,

he

as

The

of about

second

upon

big merchantman,

known

hand-to-hand
as

the

clothes

cannon

seasoned

and

to

which

used

longshoremen,

courage

Job,
of

of

crew

the

was

side.

typical

beheld

boys climbed,

the

black

height
a

more

many

their

now

was

regular
as

to

and

in motion,

port,

every-day

Bob,

either

along

solidly

up

of

heave

regular

sea.

ship

hardly

lines

ports

open

The

though

Queen^

guise. Long

of

the

out

open

these

into

deck.

on

of
suits

two

were

bench

cabin

blue

the

to

was

sailing vessel

looking

Jeremy,

crisp,sparkling

it

her.

Job

She
and

patted

her

brass

shiny

blue

when

he

should

Clarke
and

the

Ghent,

in such

Jeremy, bashful
to
over

the

come

aboard.

much

From

Then

spiritof

Bob

the

this

point on

the

eagerly interrupting
the

forgotten for

lad, could
The

me

proceeded

to

and

the

and

from

very

fair copy

over

him

the work

as

he

went

"I can't

general
of the

drew,
on.

and

such

shook
he said
a

likeT'

'twas

of the
had

paper,
outline

taken,

the

boy

leaned

doubtfully

bay just this

146

jerk.

"Jeremy,

ex-buccaneer

when

piece of

his head

covery
the dis-

with

up

he

original.The

"No,"

recall

given

Capes.

incident
to

what

with

together,

some

exclaimed.

measurements

told

had

Chesapeake

came

sat

gone

boy

off the

in

his memory

from

down,

set

Job

he

had

the story

put

picture of

boy readily consented,

Job

the

they

Daggs' chart.

draw

ye

to

story.

persuaded

Delaware

told

When

always thought he knew!"

boys'

was

the Francis

other

each

the

trip up

lads

two

and

the tale and

up

the

moment.

of Pharaoh
'T

took

storm,

long pipes

time

kidnapped

subsequent pursuit of

the

and

till the

side

ther,
fa-

Bob's

tled
set-

hear

the

later,

Rowland

company,

from

his adventures

recount

over

to

fine

Job

and

prepared

hour

the

minutes

cabin.

main

Captain,

and

port,

few

the

to

for

wait

the

across

breech.

group

comfortably

themselves

glasses of

her

to

the

together

looked

he

as

hardly

match

joined

went

Mr.

could

He

set

Curtis

they

lovingly

rump

ahead.

swells

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

had

minute.

as

ished,
fin-

An'

THE
as

there

don't

nothin'

was

know
it's

not

on

I'll try

it." A

resembled
to

There

remarked

"Well,"

"Daggs'll
Charles

live

never

Dock,

Town

the

least

at

lightwind
after

Then,

in

made

nearly
of

till noon
Town.
as

as

directlyto
Governor

the

all

was

Delaware

the

On

made

sonable
rea-

days.

two

night,

island

the

be

she

which
scene

the

tide

of Charles

in the

cutter,

landing they

at

home

they

and

who

had

went

proceeded
147

at

old

an

shown

of the
once

comed
wel-

gladly

was

been

official business

Curtis

prophet.

against

ashore

merchant,

his. When

to

on

that

in

no

thriving port

went

charts,

house.

Governor's

where

up

same.

swing

all

small

crept

aboard.

snug

Johnson

transacted, Mr.

Job

sail

was

closely

But

himself

later

off the

and

was

the

not."

the

that

the

nearly

past

small

He'll

bay.

short

duced
pro-

the

was

for

coast

maps

none

Queen

half

but

the Indian

beginning,

Curtis

of

large room

dawn,

anchored

and

soon

his

I mistake

and

and

war's

Mr.

away

the

the

century

great

put

drifting under

with

it

ex-pirateproved

down

speed

that

an

held

the

over

belief

reach

to

so

ship'scharts. Still,

drawn,

he

as

down,

bays large and

as

Like

do.

set

had

Job

might be,

to

us

the

poring

were

the

warrant

it

isn't

as

over

of

Jeremy

one

for

island

look

to

use

tell where

to

anything

half-day

the

enough

The

scant

result.

no

it

on

little

some

be

BUCCANEER

there's

as

'twould

saying

BLACK

into

colony
to

the

quaintance
ac-

was

point

BLACK

THE

of his visit. He

had

southern

Johnson

it

it four

upon

He
the

spend
to

was

honest
that

obvious
felt

Mr.
to

like

Curtis

their

Governor
go

to

flushed

shot

forth

sparks.He

in

"Look'e

rough
usage.

at

"Gently,
his

as

clothes
The

eyes

us

that

leader

again.

Colonel

insistent

they

knock

advanced
he

Rhett,"

twinkling.

"Allow

148

of my

two

to

fairly

other

men,

seen

cent
re-

rapid steps.
confounded
"

men

interrupted the
me

door

eyes

have

said, "those

Here's

the

gentleman,

two

with

the

heard.

was

whose

to

to

rose

they started

As

by

seemed

ner
gun-

toward

immediately

followed

was

boys, much

short, well-built

was

assist

to

ill will

the face, and

to

the

of

help.

and

fleet,unless

his chief

blushing Job,

and

the strain

member

two

here. Governor,"

piratesare

of the

no

of the

rightat this time

nor

for

rescue

loud

admit

much

hard

claim

better

of the Indian

unable

the merchant

Johnson,

very

dressed

time

some

being

duly

treasury

inabilityto help them.

of the room,

opened

was

no

from

no

done

at

their

having

fittingout

departure, feeling

in," said

"Come

in

ware
Dela-

been

the

the

at

from
had

recovered

injury

of the

for his

out

funds

of the

told

at

that he had

distress

urging

aid

that

said

before

neither

the discomfort

take

to

an

for

plea

yet

believed

public

the messenger

troubled

not

years

avenge

colony. His
so

his
was

had

colony

massacres.

to

and

for his friend, but

answer

put

that

learned

arrived

considered.

BUCCANEER

"

nor,
Gover-

introduce

Mr.

THE

But

buy

to

us

almost

me

do

replied,"you

he

the

"See

here," he said, "we

ship Indian
Colonel

Queen,

Will

down

way

to

and

tobacco
was

the

Carolinas

had

in hand.

Queen

fish warehouse

"My
harbor,
The

smiled.

he

he

commanders

we

nor'?"
Gover-

the

reply, he

led

figure in

Charles

the

better

and

been

fitted

days

two

he had

well.

as

on

he

for

and

wharves,

the

secured

150

land,
in-

Among

much

skill
leader

as

the

as

he

the

no

man

task

the services

two

in
he

from

the

before
of

pression
sup-

which

his friends
and

any

soldier

in

uprising.Certainly

Indian

was

For

had

miles

few

respected as

courage

he

sea-captainsalike

and

colony. His

fairly lived

of the second

hand.

commission.

well-known

townsmen

growers,

of

liam
Wil-

is in the

large plantation

proverbial,for

were

big

affirmative

conducted

in the

me

widely acquainted and

man

out

teers
volun-

not

name's

my

other

what

give

was

owned

He

Town.

enough

cision.
de-

quick

the docks.

Rhett

Colonel

looking

after

delightedly. "Done,"

see

receiving an

And

head.

get

service,"

hand

you

his

with

guns,

your

let's

now

recruit.

can

at

his

gripped

cried, "and

twenty-one

She's

sea.

or

thrust

Curtis

Mr.

Rhett."

can

business

this whole

do

ready for

moment

have

up

stood

he

for

to

Then

not."

must

floor

shook

Colonel

The

you

1715. Would

in

were

we

as

that, Rhett?"

"No,"
at

dry

drain

properly three ships would

fit out

and
as

BUCCANEER

BLACK

sunset

sloops,

THE

John

Henry, Captain

the

BUCCANEER

BLACK

Neither

Hall.

Captain Fayrer

fighting,but by using
borrowing

and

each

sloop

the

crossed

had

Vane,

passed

course

Two

three

or

failed

progress

on

could

examined

was

brook

the

reason

to

expect

soon,

if he

had

until

Rhett

the

Bonnet

that
not

went

gone
on

the

and

they

off

waters

went

should

come

up.

151

inlets

however,
Curtis,

eighteenth.The

every

Constant

hiding place
along.

suppressed excitement,

For

headland

there
leave

would

advance

the

Rhett's

Mr.

slow.

was

already.
in

sailed

and

delay, for, as they

this

they

direction.

creeks

expedition repeatedly,

of

Queen

coast

with

men,

buccaneer,

on

as

Jeremy, wild

hardly

patrolled

the

in that

impatient

received,

pirateswere

officers

Indian

Fear

Cape

200

prize,and

the

the

the

of

relief

fleet up

and

of

sign

coast

in

search

of

the shore
Bob

of

for

of

with

and

pirate,Charles

notorious

the

trim

war

before

bar. Just

along the

about
the

ily-armed
heav-

eight guns

nearly

crews

the south

any

the

to

they put

rumors

days

reveal

to

much

and

laid

was

of

ships,in

three

the

that

to

the

up.

Town

in

come

pieces from

combined

Charles

had

news

their

in

carrying

for

defences

town

complement

made

was

September 15th

On

first

Queen,

Nymph,

equipped

was

the

from

cannon

the Sea

and

ship

half-dozen

some

hidmn
for

Masters,

of

this

warned
was

the
reason

the

others

for

four

the
every

river

the
and

days,

THE

the

On

the

enter

there

as

the entrance,

but

she had

only
the

even

later
dawn.

he

as

Her

mouth.

in

small

Ghent

dared

inside.
and

Rowland.

Job

pirates in longboats
evening
as

while
with

had

the

seen

be

added

the

big

Henry's

about

vessel

standing guard off the

blow

only

not

had

Bob

looked
and

to

Mr.

forward

Jeremy

the

half

herself

had

dred
hun-

few

the

with

night
Curtis,

party

of

during

the

retreat

as

on

Curtis, but

the

two

to

be

forced

This

entrance.
to

to

the battle

been

ordered

the

of

crew

men

was

152

the channel-

as

soon

guns.

the force of

to

to

river

beat

had

nearly

big ship

war

down

come

utes
min-

the

during

of

it

As

till

reported that

He

reconnoitre, but

decided

was

should

who

had

they
It

to

back

council

tainly
cer-

fifteen

plain sighta

in

came

held

would

again

bow-on

sat

were

Rhett

and

there

further.

anchored

she

and

consorts

boat

and

had

Ghent

even

aground

ran

deep-

lengths of

that

adventured

launched

not

were

two

yards

she

spare,

the bar

great,

few

showed

to

lightersloops

Captain
in

two

or

grief if

and

within

to

to

flood.

past

over

The

Nymph.

soundings

fathom

to

come

the

in first

nosed

Sea

decided

just

was

his appearance

made

light they

tide

advanced

draughted Queen

close

The

by the

followed

was

was,

still

was

river-mouth.

he

twenty-sixth

flagship,the He?2ry,

Rhett's
and

of the

evening
and

BUCCANEER

BLACK

Job

was

to

bed

sloops,
content
a

the

and

with

Queen

bitter

boys,

zest.

about

mid-

THE

night, but
and

they

sunrise

the

BLACK

long point

before

rose

found

BUCCANEER

them

in the bows

behind

of sand

lay. Preparations

Henry

and

the river.
struck

Sea

Rhett's

upon

the main

pulling at

been

Job, watching
knew

made

immediate

an

before

deck

excitement,

they

the first slant

had

their

with

which

had
for

Nymph

Hardly

light,in

halyards and

the

advance

up

of

crew

sunlight
lustily

were

winding

rates
pi-

aboard

beams

the

the

in the anchor

chain.
But

before

even

there

way

was

above

and

the headsails

ship

and

cleared

get

Queen

the

her

as

counted

inch

toward

skippersin
knew

the

two

mile

But

not

an

moment

and

Masters
little of

if so,

of William

out

to

of

he

his

and

came

in the

the

with

sea,

Bonnet

had
to

left

Rhett.

stiff

might

maneuver

had

Fortunately,

pirate

if she

as

instant, but headed

the enemy.

weighed
and

away,

drawing

canvas

for

had

Bonnet

unexpectedness

the character

hesitated

of

appeared

running fight.The

Carolinians

this result.

reckoning

the river,

of

comes!"

he

"Here

only antagonist. Probably

the

on

for

under

sloops were

of

James.

Royal

It seemed

safely past

bend

point, nearly

every

breeze.

chorus

the

at

decided

the

flying down,
offshore

dune
of the

his chances

Carolina

two

excited

an

the

the

of

out

That

rectly
di-

two

good

Hall, for the good Colonel

sailing.Thanks

attacking sloops were

153

to

these

let off the

his

man
gentle-

upstream

he had

complish
ac-

self
him-

lieutenants,
wind

at

ex-

BLACK

THE

actly the right time,

close

up

could

load, and
the

over

to

the buccaneer

of sail. His

hand

hand

over

from

the

both

by

pick
the

mouth

the

out

up
from

The

spare,
of

her

from
a

for

the

the

deck

her

on

in

foes

yards
them

led

sheet

of

of the

later, upon

they might

of

Rhett's

passing. The
had
a

turn

better

fierce

her

submerged

sand

saved

154

the

tore

cheer

away

that

to

edge
rose

in

drowned

only

to

bar. It

cheer, though it

have

tily
pret-

only inches

was

foe

was

sprang

sloop

buccaneer

eluded

to

She

with

Henry

the

at

ing
starboard, kick-

to

over

as

him

saw

while

in. It

hauled

was

could

tiller. Just

lead, they

she slewed.

the black

She

the

hard

as

bowsprit
in

the

at

Bob

and

long steering-beam

spray

bows

the Carolinians'
that

into

piratewent

jarring crash.

seconds

the

on

mainsail

the

take

to

she

Jeremy

Herriot

passed

of

wave

under

closer

hundred

estuary,

Queen

of

the main

instant
done.

form

big

swing mightily
same

of the

James

Royal

the

of

veer

The
justified.

few

and

refused

gained

only

to

length.

own

the deck

From

commanded

till,when

narrow

her

he

men

in kind

began

all but

was

his

as

sloop closer

Captain

course

which

craft

speedy

Nymph

river

Bonnet

answered

was

black

bow.

fast

as

the Sea

and

forcing the

port,

inch

an

She

Henry.

shore, but

to

pirate'sstarboard

his cannonade

the

down

away

firing broadsides

abeam,

raced

filled

and

off the

together

from

BUCCANEER

soon

their breath

run,
was

ten
now

appeared
for other

THE

The

purposes.

sloops lay
of

the

the

Owing

men.

train the

to

The

the

of

course

bows

were

the other
take
the

Henry

surely
need, of

the present
The

short

but

two,

put

their

from

have

blown

course,

to

their

make

in

of their ordnance

off

cut

her

stern

ward
to-

unable

to

either

Had
able

to

send

that

seems

of water,

out

they

though

for the comparative

allowance

contrast

to

that

of

day.
the

three

that

of the Indian

Clinging

pirate make

pursuers,

only

her
to

of

had

Queen

the

to

had

vessels

the little group

the

been

foe

time

word.

lay

followed.

position,it

of

bow

she

of musket-shot,

the buccaneers

or

to

about

come

sand, and

out

sible
impos-

was

straight for the

could

fightthat

hot

it

effort

an

over

she

thrown

was

ship.

in

stranding
a

in the

her

in the

crew

feebleness

seen

fast

broadside

must

before

in the

hand

proper

we

and

mouth,
also

pirate, had

ketry,
mus-

lire of Rhett's

decks

their

deck

Bonnet's

small-arm

meanwhile,

Both

away.

side

port

of either

cannon

the

of

slant

Nymph,

Sea

channel

against the

the

to

for

target

ran

enemy's

that the whole

so

James's

Royal

speed,
her

yards

twenty

fair

her

after

minute

starboard,

to

defence

check

to

aground

offered

Henry

stout

hardly

careened

while
up,

and

hard

was

unable

Henry,

straightahead,
mishap

BUCCANEER

BLACK

occupied

witnesses
not

high

strike

155

dash
the

bar

across

in her

up

exchanged

yet

they

rail, open-mouthed,
bold

so

had

bows

of

instant

of

the

triumph,
in

then

of the
Nor

the

the

race

off

the

with

the

bar, but

could
down

where

reach

had

raked

withering

bulwark,

quickness of
the

Henry,

but
this

together,as

in the

appreciablepause

an

been

river, wasted

down

scuppers,

the

first of

grounding

pirates,who

with

events

wards
after-

Nymph.

there

was

for

following
the

dream,

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

fire. Rhett's

they
many

were

in

time

nearby

to

the

living

into

partial cover

killed, even
and

before
dead

get
deck

adversaries'

ghastly comedy.

156

trying

tumbled

crew

under

were

shelter, and
in

shooting steadily during

no

their

spectacle,

the
of

they
rolled

CHAPTER
boys, intent

WN^HE

the

his

the

at

to

Job

uproar.

The

big

ramrod

with

care.

shot, which

On
in

was

strokes

powerful

his

trained

its

cannon

the

the

distance,

raising the

muzzle

wind

glanced

the

his

and

piece

laid

of flame
of

the

the

as

leap

said

cheered

at

Job

shout

his match

rail

high,"

mile.

Job

the
worked

to

long

musketry.

upper

of

fraction

with

last

At
and

at

Then

clear

foremast
inch

an
"

of

nine

they
of her

saw

deck

shortly, though
shot, for

the

feverishly

158

well-

Yankee
for

allowed

more

nosed

then

fire !" he

the

swung

section

of

the

Ghent

pirate's

Curtis

and
was

spurt
bark

staccato

fall overside.

and

his

was

the

above

back

sprang

There

distance
at

the

windward.

to

'Ware

roared

round-

the

tall

pennons;

touch-hole.

the

but

under

pirate sloop;
or

his

in

the

the

inch

space

quickly,

Maneuvering

an

group

put

down

hands,

breech

the

open

went

hammered

both

upon

an

it home

wadding

above

little

Job

moment

ramrod.

with

The

other, leaving

turn

the

of

breech

balanced

hand.

same

of

top

at

was

charge, ramming

heavy

powder,

the

turned

scene,

swelled

gunner

in

the

or

rail. At

bow

all

side

one

awful

Rowland

from

swivel-gun,

scattered

this

upon

shout

as

-iL
of

XXII

good

*'Too

had
half-

reloading, helped by

THE

others
a

of the

stout

Queen's
but

one,

pointblank
wind.

Once

James

went

his work

he

with

all the

said

boats

will

with

Rhett, for Bonnet'U

already

put

Almost

spurred
streak

he

as

The

out.

not

about

went

how

minutes

five

the

how

let off

of

runs

in

it

those

of

one

rocks

James

broadside

Job's

why

burst

off first,it'll go

gets

up
hard
as

soon

as

hard

trying so

the bar

though

it could

be

greeted with
the

Henry.

In

Rhett's

sloop
his
now

crew

like

to

cheers,

water

almost

on

appeared
answered

the

buoyantly,

for

waves

Sea

to

that
159

an

even

have
of

coming
inshe

the

where

Nymph^

the

as

effect of the shot,

still unknown

was

of

wash

of

The

the

like

line, a black

water

her

rolled

shot

sharply,

log. The

from

seen

stood

of the third

appeared.

longer swayed

no

on

fire

said

sudden

side, just at the

suddenly

wallowed

brisk

in

sloop jumped

In her

horse.

had

of

and

Royal

had.

the report

spoke

buccaneer

tide

was

Job

rising.See

she

the

in her."

hole

I If

his muzzle

of

spray.

Bob,

to

That's

level.

are

he

afloat. Watch

down

his guns

of

tide's

and

short

Just

another

In

be

rail, allowing only for

speed

"the

bows.

our

the

laid

angular jaws

Jeremy

was

gunner

tower

his great

set

charge

the

fired.

little

understanding,
past

of

the

Again

crews.

gun

top

more

"Look,"

BUCCANEER

this time

the

at

up

but

word,

BLACK

aboard
tide

rolled

keel.

The

taken

it
the

in,
nant
rem-

heart, for

buccaneers.

Sud-

denly

the stranded

triumphant shouting began aboard

The

consorts.

Henry

off the

slowly

moving

was

her

from

increasing volume

in

answered

flagship,soon
two

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

bar.
black

the

On

late

Bonnet,

Stede

sloop

there

his

Majesty,
and

cause,

surely

he

old

of the

his

hung

mad

haul

them, dishevelled

clear,

so

the

them

side.

But

from

the

"Roger"
One

the

second

the
won

with

hoarse

rose

of any

'TTl

anger.

faced

tols.
pisally
usu-

the

scatter

will

who

man

he

his voice,

fusillade

the

as

the

of

cocked

behind

from

that

black

not

hght

to

I" he cried.

end
For

of

tumult

the brains

with

deck

the

Captain,

ten

turned

it and
of

of

useless,

cannon

last blaze

in the

bloody,

nearly

rag

But

masthead.

and

plunderers

read

men

tattered

flared up

courage

Above

the

down

the

from

His

doom.

his

hulk,

of

army

apparent

no

notorious

most

stranded

for

sea-rover

fight.Outnumbered

his last

ship

read

sullenly to
still

one

faced

his

one,

turned

now

the coast,
to

since

dos,
of Barba-

the

from

major

as

death.

of

as

island

of the

gentleman

honorably discharged

silence

was

of

issue

spell he

iron
back.
before

was

held

Herriot

he

in
over

his

attacking sloops made

fluttered
the

downward

to

captive sailors
160

his

In
men

from

chief
him

the

turn.

stant
in-

another
must

already running

was

reached

doubt.

have
to

his

louder

cheer

The

black

deck.

the

Francis^ fearing

" Harcourt,

STEDE

BONNET

FACED

HIS

LAST

FIGHT

Brace

and

Company,

Inc.

be taken

to

crept
The

for

There

was

aboard

Rhett

air if he did
little

parley.

The

burned

out

handed
of his
It

whom

Rhett

across

the

by

in chains.
and

well

old

Bonnet

submitted

and

to

sloop
into

him

the
and

the

time.

There

flare

of

sistance
re-

strangely shaken

and

pale

the disarming

to

the

Bob

who

had

greeted by

and

them.

prisoners
boats

at

look

little distance

and

Last

and

Now
curse

as

of all, Major

his head

unkempt,

below

placed

One

Queen.

captured.

ugly

an

shipmate recognized
passed, haggard

Indian

stood

been

The

in small

out

the side and

over

and

morning.

rowed

aboard

hauled

those
were

in the

were

put

Job, Jeremy

they

some

and

taken

and

were

counted

then

his

pirate captain's

along

had

bar

they

one

pointed

minute's

one

close

come

length distant,

blow

to

they

men.

now

was

to

aboard

proceed

his sword

over

her

boat's

cannon

in

and

alongside.

up

the rail. He

surrender

not

had
he

loaded

went

for

at

at

that he would

Bonnet

was

appeared

four

of

muzzles

Henry

stood

flag halyards.

fallingensign

enough

she

when

the

cut

the

the

water

now

and

Colonel

fell with

deck-fighting,had

to

came

and

mast

while

irresolute

stood

told

the

hearts

men's

it

pirate if

behind

up

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

bowed

in shame.

*'Thirty-fivein all,"
and

his

handsome

gruel

finished

friend, Pharaoh

in that

fight.Well,
161

Job.

"Guess

Daggs
if

ever

man

must

our

have
deserved

old

got
to

die

violent

boys

welcomed

just

then

it's him.

death,

Want

though.

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

to

the

starting back, they

for

stomach

the

clean

to

yet

as

looking

fo'c's'le,leaving Job

me'?"

Both

aboard

and

their

of

for

the

tered
bat-

made

had

no

erstwhile

the cabin

body

was

dead

been

Jeremy

explore

to

the

four

or

effort had

corpses

hunt

to

sure,

longboat

Three

no

Bob

rather

the

soon

home.

the

at

turned

and

companions

ship.

make

to

with

as

were

deck, for

the canted

lay on

and

opportunity

pirate,so recently their

men

like

the James

to

over

go

I'd

of

and

their old

enemy.

In
the

the

risingtide
lake.

past

half

familiar

hung

chest

I" he

damp

the

chart

flood.

side

exclaimed

it held.

beyond
were

gone.

After

sack

*'Odd," said Jeremy

at

162

of

the

cloth

"Daggs'

and

of money
dark

the

the

of the

without

returned

length. "Every

torn

and

corners

leakage
boys

into

clothes, a rusty

crumpled

searching in

they sought,

the blue

delved

few

were

pool

was

Something

start.

boys

certificate

the

floated

forward, pulling it

two

recognition. The

fishingin

what

There

seaman's

Jeremy

reached

and

ture
minia-

boxes

big
it.

and

cover

made

dry planking. The

able

the

trailing after

the brass-bound
the

of

side

chests

seamen's

One

with

entered

the lower

found

contents

over

fo'c's'le and

box.

they

had

water

some

semi-darkness,
in

its

rubbish

pistol,an
almost

the

about

that

on

In

and

houses

like

open,

up

bunkroom

long

other

covering
disto

the

chest

THE

triumphant.

return
to

out

harbor.

victorious

the

knew

Joy
the

through
whole

colony

When

the

buccaneers

heavy guard

Mr.
to

Curtis
stretch

Bob, with

their

legs.It

to

of

from
baled
There
beat

and

cotton
was

down

the

on

shipping. Negroes,
Yankee
their

boy,

Planters
rode
at

handled

gleaming
in with

from

black

bales

and

and

naked

on

King
164

heads
hogsashore

with

room

loaded.

be

the

spars

unknown

to

fertile country

their attendant

to

tall

barrels

black

Charles

as

docks

set

where

tar

almost

bodies

the

the coffee-houses

for

ready
hot

decks

warm

Great

Jamaica,

of tobacco

hitherto

ashore

went

merchandise.

spicesand

under

thinking. The

from

white

victory.

ashore

Jeremy,

of

the

public watchhouse,

ships, shouldered
of

and

and

fine, fall day,

way

rum

boxes

smell

and
a

of

and

arrived

newly

Job

bells

taken

in the

up

Jeremy's

molasses

Town

of Rhett's

been

was

fascinatingly full

were

Charles

to

the merchants

aware

had

and

midsummer

in

accident,

any

of church

tune

locked

and

by

among

made

soon

was

had

Indeed, the rejoicingspread

the

to

town

who

militaryhonors,

unmarred

squadron

docks.

stood

fleet.

bounds

no

the

along

seamen

days,

they

party

with

buried

of the

three

Rhett's

of

were

when

morning

men

cannon

of

voyage

brought

the

by

saluted
A

in action

killed

been

the

On

twelve

the

sea,

BUCCANEER

BLACK

on

the

sun

of

the

to

the

the wharves,
waist.

behind

boys, and
Street.

the

town

gathered
It

was

to

THE

BLACK

of these, the

one

The

place

the

high

Fish," that
for

Curtains

of

and

entered, pots of flowers

sun

shelves.
and

There

talk

the

the Madeira

diners

she

and

the

to

ran

in the
that

"Captain
they

reflected

glory

Colonel

Rhett

through

were

the

soon

and

sat

content

the

he
a

was

able

to

watch

hearty badinage

to

the
of

low

as

I"

deep pink

quite

come,
over-

the fairest

were

heartily, saying

roared

that before

be, and

their coffee after

cook

of

made

meal

the

"Scarlet

his way

to

sit down

to

little aside

pretty

good seadog.

in and

came

talk in

the

in peace,

scene

fashionable

165

table

"Bravos."

private.The

changing

that

Fish,"

their

hurly-burly of back-slappingsand

as

Curtis

of

Rowland

Job,

of Carolina

over

some

curtsied

Captain

it should

sipped

upon

for

him.

to

elbows,

yes.

Curtis

Rowland"

tables,

of Job's

news

men,

Whereupon

months, if he knew

As

Mr.

Mr.

and

world,

many

As

kitchen.

window-

the

at

his order, blushed

that the ladies

vowed

the

the

pointed

"Oh,

he gave

as

side where

going everywhere

in her

his cup.

hung

men

It seemed

and

dimples

she answered

of

spread by Rhett's

recognized

down

set

the

and

stuff

in the broad

groups

chocolate.

been

with

barmaid,

gay

ware
Dela-

deal

polished

on

stood

pirates was

and

had

gunnery

the

were

of

with

brightlycolored

windows,

square

bluff

the

dinner.

resplendent

was

shining pewter.
at

''Scarlet

his proteges

took

man

BUCCANEER

and
young

he
two

drew

boys

listen

to

blades

about
first

the tables. It

wholesome

called.

had

He

never

these

life. From

and,
forced
of

form

to

his

the

color, the

thrill

of

his

own.

It is

the

score

once

or

he

the

which
in

conference

paid

the

twice

father's

to

with

still

the

honest

feel

to

"

Curtis

Mr.

party

turning

his

life

being

their

took

to

honest

hard, rough-hewn

the

door. Job

outside

able

sham,

with

and

been

had

pleased

richness, but
the

woodsmen
back-

his traditions

to

unabashed,

from

in his

of

the world

be

Bible,

pictures

only appeared

his

was

to

the

conversation

of

ters
quar-

could

except

tribute

sat

things

Rhett's

way

face

fine

pride

Colonel
over,

that

those

things from

the

clean

Queen

half-dozen

conceptions

gayety,

distinguish the

the

Jeremy's

recently,of pirates,he

experience.

own

good,

book

any

from

all his

self-reliance

and

and
more

and

than

more

seen

aboard

read

never

the

unless

'meals

had

remember,

must

you

was,

experience of luxury,
and

so

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

umphal
tri-

sunburned

glance regretfullyafter

the

pled
dim-

barmaid.

That

afternoon

house, where
of their
were

and

to

as

trial of the
of

their

Job

experiences

sworn

coming

they

the

evidence

each

of

in Bonnet's
affidavits

this

166

boys

It

was

told

for

the

use

story
stories

the

in

special dispensation
them

allowed
instead

Governor's

These

kept

and

which
form

the

the

to

company.

pirate crew.

Governor's
in

taken

were

of

to

give

waiting

in

THE

Town

Charles

they

Johnson

Governor
He

with

may

left

for

other

each

and

of

Rhett

holding

out

something
had

words

"Never

the

bid.

in

the

each

of

Mr.

they

Governor

each

gold.

matically
auto-

there

was

Before

he
of

speech

"Here,

lads

Governor

had
was

hand.

purse

as

share

at

that

astonished
In

though,

smiles

in each

guineas
mind

spoil taken

stared

showed

two

them

there's

benign

Rhett, here, has

"Colonel

he.

Bob

sack

thank

to

adjoining

and

surprise.The

were

twenty

again merrily.
said

they

as

over

found

and

Job

this

catch," he laughed, and

did

way,

The

leather

small

long

say

over,

faced

and

divided,

go

and

of

beforehand

known

to

been

you." Jeremy

Curtis, Colonel

the

into

sit down

to

to

formalities

party

their friends.

at

needless

lads," said he, "the

has

it had

guess,

it. The

the

my

James

Royal

you

of

them

"Now,

sit,and

to

court

led

motioned

smile.

the

on

the

for

heartily glad

were

room.

BUCCANEER

BLACK

they

laughed

acceptance,"

something

else for

you.

"Yes,"

replied the

of

in the

deal

junk

Admiral

of

two

lads

you,

as

As

he

stood
of

the

would

small

one

arms,

"You

Captain's cabin

expedition.Td
each

pick

personal gift from

spoke, he
at

Colonel.

some

out

On

it the

cover

boys

glass and
167

that
much

pleased

and

that

Stede

from
saw

silver

was

to

comes

anything

myself

the cloth

took

side.

be

there

see,

me

as

if you

pleases

Bonnet."

table

which

shining

decanters

array

and

THE

books.

of

pile
"Here

stepped

with

It
the

pride
he

moment

had

fastened

been

He

heard

the offer his

the

table

of

the

heap

thickest
volume

inexplicablefact

least
Bonnet

that

this and

the

he

do

buccaneer.

had

longed

for

last

books

his sole

That

ponderous leather

colonies.

Job

gave

since

book

was

the lad

and
not
an

168

the

not

he

of

ten-gun
for the

the open,
remember.

had

spoken

inwardly it had

the Delaware

boy.

times

many

and

the foundation

it became
often

save

Bob

read

as

it could

where

could

but

books

Bunyan's great

training of

when

was

is

of such

place

jealousy of

years,

library as

knowledge,
for

ground

and

biggest

leather-bound

great

book-shelf

gruff scorn

been

the

went

of the terrible Stede

the

and

ever

his well-schooled

such

he

now

lad, uneducated

poor

from

of

and
up

had

shining eyes

of Milton.

into

From

hesitation.

reader

in the cabin

in after

career

constant

at

come

affected

thoroughly

books,

of his father

lessons

had

picked

Lost"

Jeremy,

rude

He

was

good than

more

the butt, and

on

no

and

"Paradise

allegory had

had

object,

in the

pistol

his father.

to

one

of

Bob

weapons

''Pilgrim'sProgress." It

Bunyan's

"

engraved

turn.

straight to

said.

silver-mounted

it

upon

forward.

the

over

show

to

Jeremy's

was

glanced

pirate'sname

the great

went

and

table

Bob

choice," he

your

finally selected

eagerly. He
with

lad, take

the

to

motioned

Colonel

The

are,

you

BUCCANEER

BLACK

met

with

understanding

in

smile

the
and

THE
a

pat

the

on

passion for
The

Queen

sea

upon

and

saluted

rustled

was

in the

shrouds, and

gentle flapping.Slowly
the

northeast
while
her

bunk, where

thought
was

and

the

it the

homeward

settled

water

forefoot.
a

she

the

over

ran

him

of

his

tall

away

with

shone
sound

sweetest

bound

the

at

last.

169

from

passed. The

hour

later

the

her

tember
Sepbreeze

herself

through

to

neath
be-

murmur

in

the open

ever

edly,
content-

course

smooth

had

to

docks

warm

lying wide-eyed
he

out

sails filled with

ship bowed
on

and

soft land

the great

health

moving

was

ocean.

Jeremy,

single star

she

vigorously

vessel

every

settled

other's

each

and

up

tide, cheered

by

dusk

told

hearty handclasps. An

many

anchor

the

drank

men

grown

had

Jeremy

education.

separated with
the

BUCCANEER

back, for

an

four

BLACK

heard.

his

port,
He

XX

CHAPTER

voyaged

the

toward

eyes

disappeared
of

up

fog,
off

and

the

in

airs

chairs

in
while

and

Bob

"Voyages,"

and
of

the

were

were

sea

the

raced

with

would

stand

and

of

deep

blue

the

by

Ghent,

kicking

days

the

tiller

and

who

with

spray

slack
was

the

brass

Dampier's
that

Job's

of

reef

sheet

here

bold

sailor, would

help,
170

and

when

or

keep

out

cloud

white

all

hands

sail

there,

take
the

of

sky

over

Then

below.

good

best

But

boomed

wind

big

oil-lamp,

weather,

flecks

scattered

flying
to

fair

into

settled

with

Apollyon

howling

into

ran

mournful

sang

"Pilgrim's Progress."

in

and

west,

they pulled

Captain

over

fought

Jeremy

knight Christian,
all

bemused

sat

deck

mighty

fished

or

they

lads

two

beneath

cabin,

seas;

if

tales

long

dripped dismally

wet

on

the

gloom,

gray

the

watch

the

and

shrouds

the

high

and

appeared

Twice

the

days, when

those

on

the

blue

half-closed

Job's

to

flounder.

goggle-eyed

listened

light

the

in

she

as

and

sun

that

taffrail, happy

the

over

of

through

shore

down

Queen

lazily

sat

off

of

or

and

up

the

days

"

boys

line

faint

hand-lines
even

the

leeward;

to

adventure

with

coast

sails, looking

the

of

shadow

the

up

when

winds

days aboard

brave

were

j/"!!"SPHERE

the

big ship

from

Charles

thrown

before

with

tearful
had

had

mother's

death

he

and

friendly
and

front.

water

from

miles

feel

had

around

vessel, for
been

was

streets

as

drove

bunting
the

up

had

they

main

little

town

and

out

within

hands

his shoulders

on

was

sensitive

Jeremy
eyes

"A

frail

slipof

mouth

flushed

never

fine

and
a

slow

flinched

boy,"

she

as

and
a

looked

big, black
scarlet

he

returned

full

eyes

under

her

her

with

son,

of

courage.

gaze,

but

his

it.

said, at length, "and

172

crowds

his face.

into

like her

dark

woman,

house.

Curtis

Jeremy, put

long

the

of honor

laughing

to

came

had

cheering in

the

to

turning
re-

coaster.

the party

the

and

mother

dispersed,Bob's

Carolina

and

with

coach

men

defeat

Bonnet's
a

the

at

the

welcome

to

thoroughfare

were

lonely.
be

doorways

over

new

was

must

of

news

the Governor's

When

the

his

in

him

to

colony

brought in, days before, by

There

She

turned

below.

frontier

the

in

good

the

in

the

life. Since

own

and

awkward

soul

hand.

over

mother-love

all Delaware

Every

had

one

the boat

few

been

this ecstatic

that

It seemed

in his
a

had

some

hand

from

known

they

him

it made

had

but

way,

part

in

shyness, watched

sudden

small

it

up

that followed

scene

Women

settlements,

reached

she

further

ladder

swarmed
a

there

before, and

was

they

Bob

and

rope

Jeremy, stricken

happy,

There

him.

pier,but

the

along

weeks

three

Town

welcome

to

was

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

my

own

boy's

BLACK

THE

friend!"

good
him

All

over.

she

forehead.

the

on

Then

women

BUCCANEER

smiled

Jeremy

then

was

there

and
him

angels of lightto

were

kissed

and

tenderly

won

that

from

moment.

That

four-poster,the
mother

her

missed

before.

in spots

wet

the

In

good

too

understand

never

forced

he

days that

was

give

to

the

As

Jeremy

take

to

in

They

were

there

was

bring

them

for

affair

fair way

enough

of

from

brick

house

wine

to

though

the

the

matter

last

at

to

an

persuaded
himself.

spoiled,but fortunately
humor

them

between

to

head-patting gentlemen
who

at

the

from

the

gathered

and

he had

the

yellow
been

the

trip up

plantation. It
trail led
with
on

them

really saved

petting was

Curtis
and

that

thing

much

too

thirty miles
red

the

was

of afternoons.

Perhaps
effects of

the

could

gleefully accepted

he
and

ladies

tearfully rapturous

and

be

ony
Col-

Jeremy

philosophicallyas

to

sense

off safe

Bob,

as

was

heroes, but

were

explain

offered

was

the

they

to

ever

in Delaware

heroes.

the young

trying

had

he

pillow that

nothing

just why
up

on

his

ashamed.

not

was

for

that

glory

asleep

followed

admiring populace.
all

fell

missed

boy

than

perhaps

He

of his first

wilderness

England

more

and

"

New

poor

hard,

very

white

in the

night,alone

the
horse

173

was

through

woods

half

Brandyride

fine

just

frosts.

autumn

only

the

of

ing
turn-

Jeremy,

dozen

times

THE

in

his

He

was

and

life,

was

seat

their

learn

so

journey's
With

old-timer.

who

gale

that

end

he

Job

it

afford

different

times

had

like
He

matter.

demanded
do

would

have

steed.

Even

the sorry

at

every

the

it in

Englander
to

an

was

that

must

preference

reached

roan

cross-country

laugh

to

tall

fear.

carriage

erect

they

his

backed
was

Bob's

before

long

without

and

imitated

the

New

in

day

any

could

well

travelled

saddle, the lank

athlete

and

though

all sailor, and

man

natural

quick to

easy

BUCCANEER

BLACK

ridden

Jeremy

figurehis big

friend

made.

The

cutting,eight
forest.
left

them
the

Here

and

stop

By the

log

huts

rough

gray

in

four

up

laughing,

to

wide

at

down

right

to

or

It led

noon.

long slope into

Cantwell's

plantation.

eat," explained the boy.

clearing,was

along,

and

chorus
*'Ah

the

to

river. In

black

farther

jacket

red

bite

the

house

square

of

group

built

of

stone.

rode

the

barking

for

off

turned

"John

side, in

and

They
upon

here

Bob

rough

running through

branched

hill, then

stream.

water

paths

than

more

no

wide,

these

wooded

valley of

We'll

there
of

one

was

feet

ten

or

and

up

over

followed

they

trail

wide
to

answer

ran

white

out

fox

to

which

door

Bob's

take

terriers

of welcome.

there, RufusI"
174

hail

the

round

jumped
to

the

down

colored

horses'

tore

Bob

looked

heads
the

down

boy
and

corner

with

horse-boy, and

THE

proceeded
As

and

broke

into

"Well,
We

the

I'm

he

as

the

to

the

took

much

which
of

use

without

was

the

plain

thee

simplicityabout
that

eyes

One

stood

sun-lit

She

twelve.
a

had

frame

hands

her
sober

seen.

nose

and

bloomed

back

from

had

her

recklesslyabout

and

him

head
her

in

the man's

of

his continual
was

direct

gentleness in

at

the

at

John

his

long

Cantwell.

about

little

in gray,
skirt hid

the

fairest

set

her

merry

hazel
Her

eyes,

plain

the

and

toes

this
had

straightlittle
had

curls

that

to

off with

Jeremy

bonnet

brown

seemed

girlof

above

that

face

and

doorway.

properly. But

most

him

square

appeared

demurely

cheeks

He

instantly.

it had

and

lad!

introduced

there
a

wondered

Her

chin.

firm

of

folded

She

ever

at

gazing

kerchief.

were

stalk

collar, and

thy. But

to

dressed

was

bit of white

cut

forgotten everything

open-mouthed,

the

In

he

next

boy

only he

moment

the

In

and

hand

Bob

the

at

all his ways,

the

won

visitors.

back,

boy's

them.
coat,

his

face

only yesterday."

the others, as

marvelled

kindly

thee

see

hearty grip, then greeted

Jeremy

in sober

man

strong,

town

and

steps

big

their backs.

on

caught sight of

mightily glad

the

down

dogs

His

doorway.

from

news

little

dismounted,

smile

Bob,

got

strode

Job

to

came

gray

BUCCANEER

roll the excited

to

Jeremy

BLACK

catch

fallen

strayed

all the

beams
sun-

in Delaware.
For

very

little time

she stood, and

175

then

the

pursed

it in

Bob

smother
in

to

do

daze,

in

Cantwell

Betty
Penn

the

simplicityof
the

"

the

of

live, but

Boston
would.

as

Of

speak

the

to

first

he

dining-room

door

by the

of the black

turkey. One

great

bird the day before, and

arrived
be

just

at

the

fortunate

had

they

them

allowed

to

prayed

He

well.

visit

to

that

hoped

she

bigger by then,
prick the

would

he

dared

who

delicious

the three

much

so

to

put

were

farmhands

moment

speech

Jeremy

chance

imaginings

roast

of

by the Puritans.

grown

deacon

staid

England

half

how

and

grim

her I These

as

tell

to

for the

New

never

have

sword

time

had

only

from

Quakers

called.

them

already

the

little curtsey

quaint form

in

not

he would

carry

legs of

to

at

Yet

course,

would

were

was

Betty might

town.

him

learned

had

he

as

their beliefs

honored

and

that

fervently

thin

it

as

Quakers, though

liked

to

ran

Jeremy, still

accounted

their

and

apparently, people

Here,

and

father

That

persecuted for

much

were

their dress

plain language,

heard

hand,

north. Bob

the

to

entered.

they

as

skirts

moment

dropped

her

and

Colony

Jeremy

her

Job.

meet

to

Next
her

over

She

Castle.

New

at

hug.

great

opened

longer. She

no

catching up

and

joy

bowing

was

turned

and

of

whoop

controlled

be

could

mouth

red

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

savour

had

shot

travellers
when

it

was

rout

of
the
had
to

carved.

It

was

dinner

never

to

be

176

forgotten. The

twenty

THE

miles

ridden

they had
them

given

BUCCANEER

BLACK

and

potatoes
to

that

yams

mention

herself, "with

his

heaped-up plate
he

for

opposite him

very

large
had

it been

he

blush

felt himself

in evidence.

meal

and

would

Yet

have

not

nor

the

and

fork

best knife
Dinner

river

bank,

to

start.

that

where

There
would

the horses

come

in above
to

canter

mon
all Solo-

tive
talka-

wielded

tilled fields

shocked

to

the

177

and

return

earth

as

once

the

the

for them
a

trip, and
the

gloom

ridge

promise
before
of

They

more.
was

were

by the

among

time

was

farewells

their heads
soon

it

soon

the

back

as

fist

good

neither

was

lady's eyes,

laughing
on

red

the broad

and

stop

As

for

elsewhere

stood

came

were

could

shut

and

edge.

finished, they

corn

Afternoon

they

Jeremy
forest

see

his

making

in

who

eaten

vast

deed,
In-

him.

story

Bob's

the stable

to

he felt

table

time

word,

have

every

not

three.

of the

and

over,

taken

stubble.

spell of

under

would
the

Brig's gold. Perhaps Job,

minute

presence

above

been

having

troubled

succeeded

he

turkey, not

every

say

in her
hands

raisingthem

came

relish

he
possibility,

white

joyfully attacked

could

and

His

awkward.

and

the

Bob

with

ate

Betty

was

turkey without
it was,

and

help."

mally
nor-

fine

Betty admitted

talking.Jeremy

not

was

cook's

have

been

not

were

accompanied

jelly which

some

made

that

there

and

good trenchermen,

they

had

appetite, even

an

would

crisp air

the

through

the
put

cleared,

for

there

still

were

waning. Jeremy
but

then

was

loaded,

was

bad, and

and

light

horse

snort

of fear

caught

off his

lurch

he

and

guard,

head

and

ground

of

of

riding

his life and

had

rattle

went

subsided.

Jeremy

on

gave

forefeet.

Bob,

head

with
Then

in front.

he

away

pulled
his

the

saw

as

changed.

step closer and

178

touched

he

saw

the

or

two,

and

then

He

quickest
the

whirr

The

the

snake.

trigger.After

the

the

he

the

the holster, took

second

beside

up

and

ear

tail of

lay white-faced,

Bob
drew

for

He
call

to

rode

horse's

off. Even

met

pulled

where

rattlesnake.

vibrating

apparently nothing

he

feet

two

himself

pistolfrom

the

animal

ground

behind,

whirr

turned

the

while.

speed.

had

braced

the

on

coiled

threw

and

with
over

not

close

sharp

fat, still body

aim

went

for

horse

wrenched

stopped

weapon

space

better

suddenly the

flap

footing

for

open

and

gallop

scream,

Jeremy,
the

to

more

favored

sprawling

short, cruel

other

to

the

The

slowly

more

go

pared.
pre-

his

that

peared
reapbe

to

undid

saddlebow,

came

fell

and

gave

to

alike

others, when

the

had

they

him

warn

sure

woods,

and

appeared

to

made

light was

in the

it back, reassured.

put

ground

spurred his
to

and

Bob, in the lead,

Then

the

to

home

at

seemed

hand

the

and

go

that

depths

pistol holster,

the

to

much

very

reached

He
of

was

either

on

miles

ten

chill, sombre

the

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

of

shot
the

then

gradually

still

as

gave

death.

choked

cry

CHAPTER

the

and

river

the

down

big

woods

white

the
and
upper
life.

an

of

Giant

the
sun

laurel.

And

both

from

only

hunting
bigger

tulip

growth.

had

he

found

good marksmen,

this

through

little
leaves.

colder

dangerous

so

180

flitted

had

never

in

wild

fered
of-

New

As

rivalry sprang

England,
the

boys
up

stantly
con-

seen

The

country.

plentiful.

great

with

turkeys

birds

Jeremy

northern

the

muzzle-loading

long
song

where

paradise

teemed

the

for

by

rhododendron

occasional

and

steep

mingled

hillsides

sylvan

underbrush

the

it

The

five

of

heard
trees

with

thick

were

for

the

and

and

the

more

rivers

by

wild

great

plantation

oaks, ashes

thousand

and

The

the

ground,

plowed

hardly

marks

in his

the

of

back

yet

Squirrels, partridges

And

rose.

the

fields, all up

as

and

through

never

back

all

branches

rifles, while

was

forest

through

shone

frequent

such

age-old

hemlock

and

pine

of

than

more

the

miles.

edge

Alleghenies,

the

men.

for

the

to

broken

miles,

slopes

bank

straight

ran

hundred

with

of

trees

were

buildings lay

close

fields, crowding
the

farm

the

together

spent

plantation,

the

at

the

befell

adventure

grave

they stayed

they

days
of

Back

or

while

boys

two

full.

great

no

WN^HOUGH

XXIV

game
but
were

between

them.

of

bright eye
off

scorned

They
the

or

tree

stocking hunters
The

last

heavy

the

fields

the

Brandywine.

and

back, the river

fresh

the

The

their

narrow-beamed

had

seen

the

at

to

across

of

started

they
and

yellow
and

shone,

sun

fair

promised
the

sullen,

current

fast

and

carried

took

long,

was

out,
dug-

affairs that

graceful birch
Penobscots,

It

Jeremy
and

serviceable

but

weather.

plantation. They
the shore.

over

down

when

bright

down

the

among

swollen

day's provisions and

canoe

quite unlike

already

west

left

were

and

the

of

out

swept

but

held

with

rivulets

morning

for

indoors,

valley

running high

banks,

horses
guns

the

On

was

low

breeze

the

was

leather-

old

night

one

the

week.

spent

came

muddy

joined

be

to

in

lead

and

powder

the

of

drenched

Little

pour.

fiftyyards

shooting like

end

that

rain

of

were

days had

two

persistently and

along

the

by

autumn

steady

they

limb

the

"

pigeon preening

wood

deal

shots

hardest

hickory

good

in the process,

spent

of

form

downy

the

but

any

squirrelabove

Though

top.

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

seaworthy enough.
Job, happy
stern

to

paddle.

be

Bob

cry

of

shoved

It

farewell
out

was

and

the

to

shot

with

the

once

kindly

folk

down

The
181

stream

and

bow,

the

the

took

more,

the blankets

away

exciting work.

water

in

knelt

squatted amidships
a

on

and
on

had

Jeremy

guns.

the bank,

swift

the

With

they

river.

overflowed

its

banks

for many

eddies

the brown

and

yards
the

among

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

To

trees.

keep

proved equal
paddling
of

speed

occasion

the

to

miles

ten

over

in the main

canoe

current

their

with

though

the craft

gave

mishap into a wide-spreading cove.

the slack water.
rested, drifting slowly across
far

be

Jeremy

They

frock
and

stood

rod

she

looking behind

there

was

stepped
to

which

He

was

out

asters.

few

not

the

of

feet

twenty

the

of
for

canoe,

that instant

At
a

still

girl,who

dropping

girl

full

arms

"velvet"
the

little

big buck deer

gleaming antlers

and

tossinghis

from

flowers

perfectlystill,the

her

the bank.

summer

pointed

seen

brush

the shore,
shreds

not

and

away.

bank,

had

her up

crashing in
upon

the

on

She

golden
was

fiftyyards

some

"This

saying, when

was

exclamation,

startled

the shore,
gray

Bob

Cantwell's,"

gave

toward
in

from

hour, he brought her down

an

without

can't

in

good steering.Job

and

of the

the swiftness

the

and

required judgment

channel

swirled

water

him,

faced

by

one

clung.
from

one

her apron.
It

the

was

fightingmood.

wavered,
great

he

puzzled by

was

antagonist.He

hesitated

his wicked

charge. Then

launching
defiance

But

there

then

leap

up

came

straightenedwith

long-barrelled
gun

and

wisp

as

second

he

buck's

From

tionless
mo-

before

bellowed

jerk,as

fell dead.

of smoke

182

in

was

this small

bare

report. The

loud

the bank

buck

the

and

rutting season

his

haunches
he made

Jeremy's

floated away.

Betty

THE

Cantwell
to

the

the negroes

orders

for
the

John

landing
the

of

Bob

telling.The

reproved

the
After

boys

another

returned

paddle
with

he

wine

the

shot

story,

had

with

some

reached

somewhat

to

spared

in the

nothing was
him

in

great

ness
earnest-

yond
daughter gently for strayingbe-

famous

night. As
to

happiness

dinners

Betty

the

at

Jeremy

shy

were

took

smile

she

miles

the

up

and

bow

thrilled

him.

gave

the

and

many

the bank,

on

in the current,

were

Job

Once

shooting downstream

tidewater.
was

bar

Outside
made

his

them

gave

waiting

was

their craft, for there

to

waved

again they
It

for

of those

before

toward

was

plantation.

make

to

she

buck.

the

thanked

Quaker

dead

Jeremy's

told

Jeremy's embarrassment,
and

about

shore

the field and

Cantwell

sound

house.

the

at

seemed

the

to

up

working in
the
bringing down

anxiety, for
him

shot

canoe

and

They took her aboard and started

hundred
again. A few
yards brought
edge of the Cantwell
clearing,where Bob

hailed

At

suddenly

more.

downstream
to

BUCCANEER

very

the

as

smiling once
them

down

sat

but

cry,

BLACK

Delaware

their progress

little craft

Castle. The
their way

voyagers
up

they crossed

paddled past the

and
in the

slim

when

mid-afternoon

the

there

slower, and
ran

in for

shouldered

High

Street

183

to

docks
was

the

the

Brandy-

of
a

Wilmington.
choppy sea that
had

sun

the beach
their

above

packs

the brick

set

and

house.

when
New
made

THE

the

When

Curtis

advise

you

long

rest,

New

York."

anchor

boys

early

for

in

the

At

her

board

of

Both

while

Later,

"Jeremy, boy,"
you,

offered

be

voyage
The
and

the chance
cheers

"Three
will

fitted

your

I"

home

out
to

and

looked

come

north

go

my

coast

for the

excited.

to

Mr.

way.

Tiger,
a

over

last

week,

trader.

He

her I"

command

shouted
port,

for

now

promised

speak.

liked

the

schooner,

new

to

too,

has

else

the prospect

at

belongings

have

said, "Ed

he

being

me

in. He,

came

something

bought

she's

and

but

their

packing

were

Howland

trip.Job

happy

too

was

New

hilarious

was

was

the

to

been

had

went

wished

voyage

overjoyed

his chum,

Jeremy

they

as

for the

who

for

there

he

weighed

as

soon,

were

accompany

had

Queen

York

need

surprisehe

that port, and

Bob,

start.

of

Delaware

New

at

early

an

news,

Curtis

for

youngsters

he could

with

before

said, "I'd

overland

start

you

Indian

ship leaving the

to

that

the

he

were

supper,

tonight. You'll

exclamation

that

boys
for

"Lads,"

room.

bed

to

the

down

coming

morning

Bob's

days

England.

the

go

two

other

no

to

explain

to

their

and

over

before

clothes
entered

Clarke

on

greetings were

their

changing

BUCCANEER

BLACK

Bob.
Ell

"Then
see

you

New
after

Castle
every

I"
three

comrades

shortlywent

to

chatted
bed.

184

of their prospects

awhile

CHAPTER
y^

boys

Ij-"^HE

and

dawn,
bade

The

coaches
of wheel,

huge

wide

on

The

of

one

boys

the

rode

Schuylkill
time

for

before
take

the

bite

the

horn

their

dirt
horses
The

surface
were

later

"seats

days

miles

of

in

of

put

Delaware,

the

York
a

served

for

forward

stage-coach

noon.

service.

the

had

and

they

barely

hurried

coach.

upon

the

where

the

Tavern

Horse

bustling, red-brick

Road,

were

as

crossing

They

White

out

springs.

conveyances

north-bound

then

slung

running

such

top,"

outside

moments,

the
to

the

affairs,

Philadelphia,

in

York.

New

bodies

on

and

connected

small

the

fast

about

the

that
for

swaying

blown

was

few

of

of

to

lunch

places

above

no

when

cumbersome

which

rumbling,

streets

for

yet

Gray's Ferry

rumbled

ridiculously

thirty

at

cobbled

with

as

these

coach

day

high

before

serving-man

coach

were

way

o'clock

colored

mail

hide

chaise

seven

that

was

the

in

the

bull's

were

developed
In

of

box

There

gear.

and

strips

driver's

to

of

old

their

on

family

four-horse

with

were

scarce

the

the

Philadelphia

the

was

to

aboard

luggage
in

it

and

farewell

clambered
in

their

Wilmington

to

they

XXV

Along
they

town

the

smooth

four

good

gallop.

opposite Trenton,
185

was

reached

by

THE

six

there

o'clock, and

the coach

and

by

rowed

night

at

old

and

bound

coach

hills of New

afternoon
and

just after
shore.

to

marshy

emerged

the

on

horses

the

In

way.

flats

bad

and

from

were

the

of

side

the

late

Newark

beyond

Jersey

in

low

the

hattan
Man-

quaint Dutch-English village which

in

grow

city in

greatest

the

other
an-

sparsely settled

Twice
the

the

spent

boarded

narrow

along

ferry boat,

They

early

was

speed.

little

the

over

left

passengers

sons.

lightsglimmered

The

destined

was

dusk

few

two

road

their

crossed

on

morning

next

little hamlets

they

Hudson.

his

Jersey. The

in

across

northeast

places,slackening
changed,

half-dozen

and

man

Inn

an

the

carried

were

an

BUCCANEER

BLACK

the

hundred

two

years

be

to

the

world, lay quiet in the gathering

dark.
The

ferry was

sound

of

and

the

waited
A

horn

coach

for

He

ferryman.

while

four

stout

flat-bottomed
asked

port. The

of

in the
a

town

he

Dutchman

Whales"

the

would

could

and

two

taverns

the other

be

Houter

of

oars

slip

was

his wide,
Bob

steersman.

likely to

taking

commonly

186

the
be

then

named

the

steering-beam,

clumsy

Approaching

merchantman

seafaring men
the "Three

the

at

its

into

of Peter

name

manned

rowers

craft.

where

Captain

stood

at

board.

to

by the

shore, but
back

it swung

the passengers

gruff Hollander

the

from

just pulling out

at

find

the

in

the

cargo

ing
visit-

which

found.

One

the ''Bull and

was

Fish/'

THE

earth.

Pharaoh
A
and

"he

will

hastened

They
yards
in

or

and

up

they

cloth

"I

their

he

down

the

inn
"Come

said

After

fell in beside
two

in with

he

skipper'sface
for

the

them,
hurried

me,

Jeremy,

grew

had

and

Bob

grave.

present," he

the other

two

or

ing
think-

said.

quiet talk

toward

more

greeting as

Whales'

there,"

moment's

word

door, looking

hail of

red-jacketsoldier

man

Ghent.

here

way

who

with

tavern.
was

been

gested
sug-

the
On

ling
patrol-

exchanged

just as they

reached

up.

and

point

out

triphammer

as

the man,"

Captain Ghent.

The
the

him

hundred

Fish."

the

the 'Three

to

for

and

gave

the

bags

stopped

door

the "Bull

stopped

and

the

the dock.
the soldier

said

have

and

front

river

Captain

was

landlord, he led the

the way

was

outside

Ghent,"

soldiers

He

then, after

and

It

Bob

to

find

can

standing by

street.

news

leave

"Better

we

the
to

have

might

him

head.

hurried

summon

was

just going

you

told

coat

It

up.

was

to

came

the

down

came

"If

along

and

more

blue

his

room

arrest."

under

placed

had

boy

news.

able

be

lifted

the

of

part

other.

the

his

him

darker

man

none

later

told

Bob,

and

Daggs

to

the

till

moment

BUCCANEER

retreated

Jeremy
watched

and

BLACK

lad's

tavern

heart

once

the three soldiers

beat

more.

were

like
A

silence

observed.
188

he entered
room

when

Jeremy crossed

toward

fell

on

the

THE

the

dark

about

the

at

there.

not

was

table

The

corner.

quickly

BUCCANEER

BLACK

faces

"He's

the

of

he

gone,"

looked

He

empty.

was

drinkers, but
in

said

Daggs

disappointed

voice.

The

innkeeper

his apron.
went

"That
of here

out

"Which

could

with

fellow

five minutes

some

Ghent.

asked

way?"

he

scar'?"

the

hands

his

wiping

forward,

came

on

"He

said.

ago."

But

no

in the

one

room

say.

They

passed
the

at
never

cross

again,

out

he

boys. "Well,"

smiled

said, "like
it's

path again, so

our

Ghent

and

only

ingly
reassur-

he'll

not

as

one

the

rogue

unhung."

more

failed

Jeremy

but

snugly

board

on

Bob's

and

It
the

that

cargo

start

quiver
heard

the

of

he
of

tide

be

with

lap of

happiness

quite given
such

his

shock

of

home.

of

reunion

up

the

hope
of

Jeremy

lay long

Indian

day

toward

for

He

his

joy being

careful.

189

feel

and

journey. The
a

them.

timbers

last he

things.At

many

within

stowed
him

more.

once

his bunk

awaiting

of

creak

the

night thinking

would

would

Had

of

the final

on

hear

to

losophy
phi-

himself

where

and

up

this

found

soon

big merchantman,
made

in

comfort

and

more,

already

good

rocking

no

the

were

was

awake
was

said

much

find

to

or

Queen's
and

two

thought
with

his

with

father.

boy? Jeremy
fatal. He

she

must

had
be

thought

He

What
then

there

from

beyond

port

Barely

was

faint

the side.

not

much

bunk

of

as

near

was

could

in the

dark,

slippingpast

was

190

caneer.
bucJust

creaking cordage

little he

away,

York^

New

in

as

Jeremy's

length

so

sound

over

schooner-riggedcraft
tide, with

doing

Daggs

was

boat's

of the broken-nosed

of the evil face

by leaning

and

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

on

see

the open
the river.

tall-masted,
the

outgoing

harbor-lightshowing.

"

w
w

%
h

"
w

o
w

"
w

o
h
Q
O
O

CHAPTER

IT

WAS

the

on

reached

XXVI

second

New

down

the

the

spanking

had

been

York

longshoremen

boxes

of

the
he

Daggs
that

was

there

the

night

tide.

the

strong

Queen

that

dark

past

ran

sail, the

and

on

the
Two

were

and

all

saw

lonely

that

up

dot

day

had

followed

them

Long

Island

the
the
of

dunes
of

breeze

the

outside
coast

191

gave

ahead

as

and

orders

with

sun

to

checked
un-

next

glint

Cod.
succeeded

fringe
of

on

day

shoals
the

afternoon

all

out

shore,

Nantucket

Cape

vanished

stealing

plunged

cleared

the

Ghent

still

Pharaoh

his mind

leave

seen

had

narrowly,

that

feeling
not

and

Jeremy

between

he

in

merrily

front

river
a

Captain

the

went

wide-breeched

hold.

would

low

through

white

working
small,

the

bright days

more

the

wind

ship

speed. They
day

the

fancy

vessel

night, though

shorten

into

southwest

Queen

stoutly hustling bales

were

connection

some

and

pirate
the

was

had

boys

intervening

where

dock-side,

The

gone.

The

help having

not

the

drawing

canvas

along

passers

could

Indian

dawn.

merchandise

watched

though

of

the

Dutch

the

her

breeze
at

after

that

harbor,

spent

morning

Maine.

of

and

islands,

they

large

Jeremy

by the
there

Bob

by

Bay

anchor

in fifteen

fir-clad

island.

shack.

His

round-topped
beat

heart

was

last the

At
a

clear

of

Queen

moving

and

cleared

of

thought

having

his father's
that

row
tomor-

place they sought,

went

had

and

sleep.

to

and

the

been

gracefully

bright,with
fairly

was

sun

the

catted, and

northeastward

that

There

to

peak,

gray

'It's the

turning

the

on

About
into

the

and

the

the

chum

across

round

island
to

his

and

under

as

joyful

mighty

the

on

run.

loomed

of sea,

bowl.

inverted

an

and

Jeremy,

gave

gave

miles

dozen

islands

two

his side

to

smooth

I" cried
mate,

between

the lookout,

with

brought

the east,

channel

wide

forward

Jeremy,

shout

in

anchor

good-sized

above

cloudless

came,

to

topsails.

They

sail

he

of

peak

Before
stirring.

the

sea,

was

snowy

breeze

the

the

before

morning

little south

to

them

hours

many

at

joined

nearer

recollection

the

high

stantly
con-

morning they dropped

dim

drew

they

as

stayed
often

was

leeward

to

had

He

eat.

and

the

In

coast.

fathoms,

might bring
it

helm

Captain,

Jeremy

the

it from

seen

the

and

to

even

the

at

man

Penobscot

the

excited

too

was

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

Captain Ghent,
order

to

get

more

ship.

the

middle

wind

and

splash, not
northern

of

her

anchor

three

bay

where

the

forenoon

the

cables'

went

lengths

Jeremy
192

down

and

Queen
with

from

came

the

his father

roar

spot
had

BLACK

THE

youth

of nineteen

group

below.

you

brother

your

The
to

youngster's

foot

ye I" he

it

Tom?"

he

other's

the

I know

I But

seems

said

wait,

slowly

he

as

with

gave

his

the

eyes.

break

in his
half

grown

tell father.

must

we

"I'm

gripped

into

though ye've

ye,

ward.
for-

ran

laughed.

long

length

at

and

face

joy

looked

and

the

saw

piratesI"

the

on

shoulders

"Certain

voice.

collie

of half-incredulous

one

"Know

from

look

off the

me,

he

hesitatingas

out,

shook

know

back

"

amazed

place

stepped

Jeremy

"Don't

BUCCANEER

He's

in

bed, hurt."
turned

Tom
called
sound
the
the

I" He

lad

seized
In

cabin.
saw

door

and

rough bed,

flung

himself

father's

fingersthat
There

was

hand

no

and

and

led

above
face. He

He

the

said.

194

little

as

and

him

into
room

homespun

sprang

felt strong,

safe

of the

the back

by the bunk,

down

trembled
word

at

bearded

breast.

home

Jeremy,

his brother's

Swan's

father," he

again. "Here,

the half-darkness
a

Amos

against his

arm.

the

breathlessly. "Here's

blankets
him

to

toward

his

head

bered
well-remem-

they gripped

his

CHAPTER

the

WAS

IT

sizzle

of

The

of

broiling fish

that

breath

of

drew

blanket

his
Delaware

on

was

like

Tom's

planks

at

father,

were

knee

said

"Father,"
that
take

may

island,

after

"Ay, lad,"

just
their

as

they
fire

rum-barrels

but

Amos
left

bade
Swan

is still

was

are

lying

it

cabin.

again

with

instant

next

There

broken

off

table

of

by

latter

had

bruised

the

the
Bob

of

aid

upon

195

his

stick.

"I

mouthfuls,

pirates

the

not,

the

If

Ghent."

the

place

beach,

driftwood.

we

the

across

Captain

to

want

landed.

I'll go

and

the

their

sufficientlyrecovered

now

replied, "you'll find

among

hewn

and

good-by

black
up

the

Tom

I mistake

it. An

had

Jeremy,

between

fowling-piece,
we've

who

tormentor.

was

was

where

again,

cove

the

Jeremy

in

only

was

The

with

about

his

on

with

days before,
walk

bed

over

breakfast.

seated.

soon

several

see

Bob,

Bob,

the

ing.
morn-

rolled

of

closed

and

fireplace

stone

form

the

and

next

ecstasy,

eye,

that

of

which

to

to

tussle

the

Opposite

an

wildcat

announcement

Jeremy

pure

drowsiness,

beautiful

woke

improvised

an

joyful

cooking hominy

inert

boy opened

carefully-assumed

leaped

the

pummelling

began

shared

smell

savory

He
and

XXVII

cove

where

and

the

'Twas

BLACK

THE

found

there

we

lad

little

"

gleaming

lying

shore,

off

the

yards

while

the

poop.

He

to

When

up

his

and

bread

the

the

fish in

dried

armed

the hearts

out

on

the

'Tsn't

leagues

the

sails disappear

They

carried

leather

pouch

his father's

was

later.

month

boys

gloriousmorning

was

"

ship'swhite

started
of

lunch

and

across

Bob

guns.

pistol from

silver-mounted

catted

from

the

of

one

sheaves

Stede

arsenal.

and

"Look

the

with

Bonnet's

It

was

Queen^

Halifax, and

headland,

cabin.

trees

northward,

farewell

voyage,

the

out.

hr

and

the

to

for

return

went

her anchor

away

coast

still

was

the dark

blocks

cheery

eastern

Jeremy's shoulder
was

soon,

watched

hill behind

the

and

the

up

had

behind

safe and

the Indian

From

gracefully

on

up

they

spiresof
of

waved

boys

two

creak

trimmed,

bound

was

the

the

Captain

Bob

pick

sky

came

filled

she

home,

back

you

morning

the

silhouette.

were

see

November

when

grass

in clean

cut

were

the

on

we'd

day. Ah, Jeremy,

soon!"

so

the cloudless

Against

then

frost of the

white

The

as

that

the second

on

"

thought

we

and

strong,

them

BUCCANEER

just

those
away.

bay

lads

bare

warm

it

this great

of both

as

fine

mountains

And

you

I Off

that

I told

blue

trip of exploration
as

196

the

clambered

the

you?" Jeremy

yonder

to

they

crowned

hardly

can

there

high

were

rock
as

for

count

south

be

must

the

island.
cried.

twenty
in

islands

is where

saw

BLACK

JHE
the

for the

Revenge

BUCCANEER

first time

just a speck

"

the

on

sea,

she was!"

Bob,

who

had

never

the

seen

from

view

high hill before, stood open-mouthed

as

him.

arm.

he

Suddenly
he

"Seel"
smoke?"

He

"down

exclaimed,

pointing

was

in the

region

grasped Jeremy's

southwestern

watched

intently,but there

morning

calm

"That's
look.

"I could

far

south

turned

the

beach.

yet

washed

hear

As

"we'll

the

puzzled

mistaken."

make

soon

sure,

for

going."

and

the

following
bay

ridge,

the

about

at

point

Herriot

by Dave

discovered

the

Amos

the

the

at

the wild

had

now

barrel

Jeremy

scene,

chorus
gone

to

the

almost

of that

the

staves

fancied

drunken

their last
197

loose

of

with

and

undergrowth

above

sand

said, the rains

embers

black
a

of

on

had

Swan

by lay

near

tangle

emerged

soon

away

again

of whom

been

have

lower

been

through
they

driftwood,

Looking

disturb

pirate Captain.

Dodging

and

to

Jeremy

just the faintest wisp

saw

we're

the

had

island.

last, with

at

must

down,

toward

Jeremy
the

I
I

where

from

scrambled

They

said
oath

an

that

isn't

"

low, swampy

nothing

was

laughed Jerry,

not

where

Bob

there. But

over

"Well,"
that's

take

the

about

shore.

and

sky

queer,"

of smoke

and

of

the

of

part

he looked

there

toward

really

had

fire,
bon-

great
caved
he
crew,

accounting.

not

in.

could
most

BLACK

THE

"What

"There

Bob.

reedy

place, led

off

they

Just

the

the
about

Jeremy

from

place,a large

whistling,and

soft

in

his

dense

Bob, who
to

sight

carrying

was

and

shoulder

stopped

him

direction

of

pany,
com-

with

was

low

o-s-s-s-t

following the

turned,

and

arm,

petrified,gazing

About

reeds, which

grew

higher,they

for

saw

tide-creek
of

quarter

in rank
a

both

second

the

up

of the island.

or

quickly

fire when

to

Bob

it

brought

gun,

the

along

target.

easy

the

winding

hidden

with

over

quit

to

narrow,

reached

they

flew

was

that

the sand.

along
of

gested
sug-

in

two

or

Jeremy, glad

till it

as

way*?"

duck

beach, scurried

offeringan

shore

entrance

back

ran

sandpeeps

lighting on

And

the

to

came

in the tall reeds.

flock of

be

might

briskly westward

that

tide-creek

the

down

here."

below

cove

Soon

walk

we

say

BUCCANEER

boys

mile

slender

stood

to

man's

the

height

canted

masts,

if

as

above

away,

stretched
out-

interior

the

toward

profusion

pair of

Jeremy's

far

over.

"A

ship!" whispered

Bob.

"Deserted,

though,

most

likely."
"No,"

Jeremy

cordage

would

have

look

trim.

Bob,

so

"I

answered,
slacked

off

it

wasn't

don't
and

more

near

here

think

it. Her

she wouldn't
saw

you

that

smoke?"

"Jiminyl"

said

Bob,

"so

it

198

was

Right

over

in the

BLACK

THE

marsh,

close

in here

to

those

to

It's

spars.

what

looks

so

Men

from

the

the island
it. Let's

argued

when

boy

careful.
all

over

of

like the look

I don't

Maybe

we

find

can

plan.

possible back
they

as

the

glint of

with

paused
above

it. I

up

The

beside

"Some

never

through

that

saw

itself

had

nearly

was

stuck

Captain

of

remnant

woods.

began
the

to

the

see

Jeremy

trees,

rudely
who

"and

look

at

the

when

dark

was

sign

cut

used

199

invisible

to

one

in the fork

of

ing
com-

tree,

piece of ship'splanking

old

weathered

been

haste

much

as

the

before, for it

this direction, but

a

accepted the

fell in."

I almost

here.

it,was

which

inlet

spring," he said,

spring

from

ridge and

exclamation.

sudden

the

"Here's

the

crossed

northern
a

the thick

the hill into

up

with

shore, past

the

along

have

surely

the creek, he

up

the

if

that

fact

would

quietly,but

their way

made

they

reeds

reconnaissance,

the

out

undesirable

discreet

Just

immediate

an

pointed

in the

the fire,and

on

first for

at

were

They

was

other

been

have

would

ashore.

the

sightmighty

tell father.

and

hidden

guard

as

ship

day

Jeremy

strangers

more

of

be?"

can

me,"

to

out

crew

that's put

it is, afterwards."

Bob
but

first

back

get

who

out

honest

any

her

queer

replied. "They're keeping

vessel

some

where

Wonder

careen.

"That's

BUCCANEER

the
to

single word

fill his casks

watter.

here

must

BLACK

THE

have

it up

put

find," Bob

hard

Amos

Swan

ship but

the

When

in

his

at

news

with

touched

at

and

the

island
He

eral
sev-

suspicious.

meal, his

they both

for

agreed with

thing looked

noon

make

and

once,

was

face. No

grave

he said.

of the

in for the

discovery

to

answer.

knowledge,

came

easier

be

Jeremy, stridingahead,

their
had

would

spring

not

the secrecy

that

Tom

sheep

did

Queen
to

of the

him

and
heard

months

boys

the

that

so

suggested. But

thinking

the

BUCCANEER

decided

bring

to

preparations

told

father

for

the

possible

trouble.

Tom,

after

soon

dinner

two

miles

was

accustomed

from

Jock.

Their

where

the

lifted
toward

they

had

their

of

head

in
but

knelt

the

the

rocky

was

the

flock

wise

northern

dog,
slope,

paths

juniper patches, then

a

belt of fir and

from

out

came

them.
flock

approach
he

island,

well-defined

worn

out

set

the

that

that

had

Jock

taken

instant
He
dozen

the

hollow

huddled.

was

at

up

lock.
hem-

among
in

There

short, choking bark.

before

that he

forward, Jeremy

the

away

of

there

was

through

and

lay before

pasture

see

and

length they

at

aware

could

along

grass

boys,

shepherded by

already

knoll

them,

It

the

end

western

shack.

led

yards

his

the

graze,

scrubby

hundred

became

to

steep

the

trees,

the

sheep

When

accompanied by
for

way

the

among
across

and

armed,

and

started
steps

limping painfully.Running

beside
200

the

big collie,then

turned

deep boot-tracks
rocks.

some

of

the

the

hostilities
With
the

and

lads

before

his wound,
at

last, but

the
be

blanket

guns

up

sunset

and

the cabin
wind

Penobscot

driving

202

leave

had
"

no

opened

sheep

was

fog

an

attack

the scared

limping

the last

changed,

island.

and

reached

door

Bay

for

They

rear.

crew

had

ready

home,

when

was

the

held

Jock, stiff
the

boys

to

They

"

first blood.

fallen

toward
Old

decided

intentions.

faces and

brought
it

had

"

the

vessel I The

strange

had

them

turned

night
of

their

them.

the stockade
That

to

serious

three

flock

of

doubt

southeastward
where

swamp

between

place

wet

headed

reedy

they might

further

in

men

were

of

top-masts

whoever

two

They

straight toward
seen

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

the

from
inlet
inside

was

barred.
and

the

shut

down

cold
over

gray

the

CHAPTER

for

held

fog

^HE

XXVIII

Jeremy,

had

been

the

of

the
the

on

look

drove

Bob

felt

fire, was
flintlock.

the

could

He

ness
tense-

stand
under-

not

scowled

he

as

sat

long-bladed hunting-

hewn

the

between
from

of

he

silence.

morning

hearth

barrel

time.

but

third

planks.

caused

him

growing

in

Jeremy

to

At

pause

quickly.

up

is itr

"What

bright

long

absolute

cracks

the

by

himself,

whistle

low

savagely

the

into

length
and

situation

floor, and

knife

for

quiet

other's

the

down

squinting
He

knees

his

on

the

On

days.

two

of

look

asked.

he

excitement

was

Jeremy's

face.

"I've

just

bring

to

know

mind

sign

that

way.

shook

was

on

"Right,"

that
said

by

up

So

I'd

have

his

into

chart

Jeremy.

in
"And

do

204

eyes.

Pharaoh

where,
some-

remember^"

look

of

"Yes,"

hending
compre-

he

Daggs'
that

You

'Watter'

word

you

"

now

island.

the

the

seen

you

trying

spring'? Well,

slowly. Then

came

old

the

two,

or

been

I've

crossed

we

I knew

his head

wonder

"It

saw

before,

once

Bob

since

second

that

something

ever

we

after

exclaimed,

remembered

to

the

spelled

he

Bob!"

"Say,

I think

cried.
chest

I"

about

BLACK

THE

it, I believe

this is the very

from

the hearth

"Two
inside
cove

"

right here. Why,

Bob,

that
Bob

hardly

"And

the dot

the
a

half

night they

could

he said.
and

itself

little

over?

for

"Allowing
the
where

shape

the

that

it

cove,

spot

the

sloop

chored
an-

'Watter'

would

I"

remember

bay.

Let's

see,

it? Or

the

put

one

was

spring

should

we've

shows

where

looked

at

"Where
Bob

be.

got
the

Bob,
would

remember

to

this

Bob,

of

here."

just about

actly
ex-

And
"

is

treasure

that

two

island!

straight
anchorage-

the

marked

He

the

his stick.

it all down.

his eyes

the

the

between

cross-mark

the floor with

on

able

being

bay," Jeremy put in, "that's just

of the

That's

was.

"Now

asked

"I

of the

finger-jointsnorthwest

two

"

That's

the

where

wait

jointslong, wasn't

that

not

our

spring

now

lines

water

"

here!

the word

four

Anyhow,

drawn

look

of

mitten-shaped

himself.

contain

about

was

stick

I"

me

with

bay

here."

"

And

got

charred

stretch

was

the beach

the

"

the floor.

on

northeast
finger-joints

bay

about

with

cove

see

here, and

up

anchor

rounded

same

cove

And

seized

quite

the

over

minute

with

points,

here.

had

drawing

was

rounded

I Let's

island

He

"

and

narrow

"

"

this way

shaped

was

BUCCANEER

"

if that

Jeremy

cross-mark

paused

shining.
be

"

up

breathlessly.
205

on

the hill somewhere?"

and

BLACK

THE

three-quartersof

"About

the

right on

"Wait
father

Tom,

for

we'd

have

and

You

know

it is

we'd

better

go

"Pharaoh

he told Bob
that

"You're
time

yet, do

you?"

"They
before

suppose

he

added

have

can't

us," Jeremy

word

this
a

fog

chance
to

holds.
to

scout

who

I think

is

at

his
the

with

man

for the first time

slipped past

in the

"He'd

lose

River.
Bob

agreed.
find

if he could

they've
in

beneath

the

now

that had

close.

name

that

And

found

craft

to

carry

Brig's treasure

dismay.

reached

here

replied. "And

already aboard, they

while

him.

here

the

feared

right, Jeremy,"
don't

Besides,

yarn.

leaned

said

the East

getting up

You

He

hear

he

as

of the schooner

night in

the cabin.

Bob.

if he

might

nose

of

sort

wild-goose

leave

to

tell

in the creek?"

pale

was

as

not

know

you

over

crew,

just

it

promise
Do

Daggsl"

breath, almost
broken

to

careful.

Jeremy's face

think

they'd

whispered

"Who?"

husky

daren't

"We

Jeremy.

improbable

an

of that

the head

have

"

asked, his voice

Bob

bit," counselled

or

chase,

him.

spring

answered.

start?"

we

of the

south

excitement.

with

no

mile

ridge," Jeremy

shall

"When

dark

BUCCANEER

won't

be

If it should
around

father."
206

up

than

more

if
able

they
to

haven't

do

But

it

anything
we'll

lift tomorrow,
there.

day

don't

say

THE

That
fever

of

to

see

woodsman
be

Jeremy,

sniffingthe

he

of

change

wall

that

weather

the barrel

rubbing

of

still

fog

that

before

of the flintlock

till it

slightwind

the wreaths

of

with

quietly forth
the

had

careful

possibilitythat

observe

turned

careful
the

might
almost

as

in

like

shadow

his father

Bob

the

took

the wall, and

went

the

by

for

summit

track
from

been

have

the

set

incident, however,

as

of the

New

to

if the

They
pirates

water,

moment.

any

hunter

tree

of

about, for they feared

their

for

at

well

were

to

cabin.

the

spring

expert
the

watch

now,

close

pass

and

up,

and

along the watershed.

westward

on

The

seaward.

when

toward

the top without

reached

sprang

Tom

guard might

at

movements

They

about

set

wholly cleared, they

climbing

kept

would

gleamed.

away

from

down

true

Jeremy.

woods,

ridge.Each
the

shot

the mist

Before

into

sheep-stockade

and

pistols,
powder

drift

to

boys' plans, both

the

inside

were

began

vapor

for the

Luckily

the northeast

from

the

three in the afternoon,

day dragged slowly by. At last, about

a

the

there

and

night,

in

surrounding

air like

announced

was,

in

were

disappointed

were

the solid

But

cabin.

both

boys slept little,for

expectation. They

morning
the

the

night

BUCCANEER

BLACK

Jeremy,

tree.

207

some

Bob,
followed

England

were

were

of
who

and

creasing
inpendent
de-

them
was

lessly
noise-

boy, moving

Jeremy

they

should

beckoned

and

paused

separate

north

slope, Jeremy

distance

examining

and

that

blaze

the

on

so

the

indicate

might

to

as

went

cover

Bob

on,

south,

rock

every

that

whispering

territoryin their search. They

wider

Then

more.

or

Bob,

to

short

minutes

fifteen

they progressed for

So

the

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

on

moving

and

tiously
cau-

for

tree

some

of

whereabouts

the

treasure.

More

minutes

Jeremy

began

then

Just

the

he

passed. The
think

to

ledge. Hardly

four

feet wide

down

between
and

over

gleam

to

The

for

with

other

through

the

both

to

trees

in

what

"

the

bottom

or

extending deep
about

was

caught

to

jump

momentary

of the crevice.

second, then

stood

erect,

He

ing
wav-

arms.

his

boy caught

the excitement
"What

eye

obscurity at

downward
Bob

his

in

three

cleft it was,

of rock. He

when

proceed

chasm

narrow

part, and

its widest

the walls

in the

peered

than

more

at

of

home.

toward

turning

brink

the

to

came

about

and

already low,

was

sun

the spot,

signal and
hurrying

rapidly

came

faster

he

as

saw

Jeremy's face.
have

he

found?"

you

gasped

under

his breath.

Jeremy

was

the

back

and

already wriggling his

knees.

the bottom,

some

walls,

rock

smooth

Within
ten

feet

few

below.
208

himself

bracing
seconds
It

was

down

way

he
a

had

tween
bewith

reached

sloping,un-

BLACK

THE

"I'm

coming

casting a
depths

I" said

taking

of

end

maybe

try. It

bare

grinned,

his

"the

it open

chop

they'd
"

He

see

I'll

howTl

fraction

of

went

bare

the side and

keg.

heaved

keg

mightily

inch

an

and

Jeremy,

in its bed.

another

made

they

and

seemed

perate
des-

weigh

to

his sleeve. Bob

with

the

better I"

noise

it's

smoke.

Besides

see

what's

in it, yet I"

on

swiftly at
worked

Jeremy

the
his

palm

crack
into

whittled

of

end
a

between
the wood,
away
210

he

Jeremy

don't

fire

to

dare

it, for
burn.

to

barrel, whetted

the

few

I"

damp

too

up

"Well,"

We
set

or

"

stood

"Right

it home?

the

at

face.

the

in

get

we

much

too

"

hunting-knife

as

the

into

object. A

edge, they

companion

crouched

the blade

and

boy,

wooden

laid

avail. The

no

heavier

"But

agreed.

of

was

the

labor

the

grip of

his forehead

looked

slot

pounds.

Mopping

cut

like

"

descended

lift it out," said

can

stirred

of

he

unearth

"Again!" panted Jeremy,

hundreds

Delaware

oaken
heavily-built,

we

strong

together.It

Here

like

hunting-knives both boys

and

of breathless

one

the

around,

feverishly to

"Now

and

''It feels

crevice.

moments

of

look

their hands

work

part

down

cautious

of the

With

few

answered.

I"

barrel

to

he

wood,"

wet

pery

BUCCANEER

times, and

two

first

at

one

to

Gradually

staves.

opening

began

his

long

narrow

side, then

at

BLACK

THE

the

other.

From

time

trembling

stoop,

crack, but

it

the

opening

Bob,

through

the

thicker

the

Jeremy's, squeezed
instant, while
a

he

the

seconds,

his knife

as

the

from

cut

thicker.

which

was

First

he, then

thrust

to

of

sides

fist

within

the

his hand

trifle smaller

There

groped

broad

through

peer

the barrel.

through.

struggle he pulled

clutched

would

hole.

widening

length Bob's hand,

At

Bob

or

rest, and

he

and

few

try, every

he

to

without

shavings

grew

would

excitement

his task

at

play,

more

with

either

time

to

pitch-dark inside

was

Jeremy kept
had

BUCCANEER

was

keg,

forth.

breathless

then, with

and

his

In

than

fingershe

yellow disc.

''Gold!"
the word

They gasped
Bob's

pieces

face

bent

They

to

never

such

across

and

One

after

coins, and

they

felt

and

another

moidores

double
this.

as

heavy
Bob

in
had

boys. Jeremy

piece

thick

within

It
in

drew

was

down.

At
211

acters
char-

queer

relief,

deep
of

were

loons
doub-

Spanish

seen

Portugal,

nearly

two

but

inches

proportion.
out

dozens

they filled their pockets

weighted

to

up

coin. The

huge gold

inscription,cut

both

full of

"

topi"

the great

and

whispered, "right

the

over

the

of

strange

the

of

inches

four

'Tt's full of 'em

awe-struck.

was

this," he

like

together.

ing
of the shin-

with

them

till

length Jeremy, looking up,

BLACK

THE

BUCCANEER

that

was

startled

was

rapidly settlingover

over

see

the barrel, then

forth, and
as

to

taking

quietly as they

up

had

the

with

the
all

had

sun

island.

212

and

They

possiblespeed

their guns,
come.

set

made

their

darkness
threw

dirt

clambered
way

home

CHAPTER

*T\. "y^'

^S^

^^^

LA^'

with
defend

what's

is

too

before,
of

score

the

long

too

run

if

here, and

in

they caught

ruffians

and

ye,

the

we

fied
satis-

be

Better

where

stay

worse

searching

chance.

be

Ye'd

great.

least

at

can

ourselves."

Amos

him,

ye'd

over,

risk

than

plight
with

island

XXIX

Swan

of great

heap

while

speaking.

was

seated

the

On

in the

goldpieces gleamed
the

around

board

table

deal

his

were

before

firelight,

two

and

sons

Bob.
It
he

Tom

was

who

said, "and

Governor's

surely

find

go

there

up

will

run

we'll
of

add

said

Not

gold

night,

smaller,

as

the

sit idle

off with

Jeremy

suggests,
time

every

guineas

to

that

pirates
it. But

pile

the

there.

will

if

risk

the

make

we

island

the

own

make

and

thousand

We

ours.

we

and

treasure

at

is

If

grant.

enough, father,"

"True

we

we

trip

Think

it, father."
The

go

the

be

this

yet

by the

answered.

elder
at

length,

carefully,

at

"if

you

take

the

we'll

It's

them,

with

go

night,

tonight, though.

sleep. I'll

thoughtfully. "Well,"

frowned

man

late

first watch."
213

chance
now

Tom,

it,
and

once

you

and
at

all

he
you

least.
need

BLACK

THE

about

At

the

boys being
the

in

them

shone
but

there

one

they
the

earth

damp

just as

and

haven't

the cleft

find

hour's

half

"lay

walking

in the
at

ground,"
Dim

light
star-

the

ledge,

pit. One

last all three

by

stood

the barrel

"Here's

been

most
al-

had

the

of

above

trees

below

the bottom.

at

left it. They

we

in the

down

lantern,

no

edge of the chasm.

the

felt their way

carried

Jeremy, who

for the

only darkness

was

following,

the hill in the

up

abilityto

and

spot,

the gap

through

but

light.A

memory
to

evening
and

out

armed

the

near

the

of their

confident

the way

led

soon

well

were

Indian's

an

stole

Tom

without

ledge

brought

on

and

They

darkness.

of

o'clock

ten

Bob

Jeremy,

BUCCANEER

yet I"

here

"

Jeremy

whispered.
Working
reached

as

into

quickly

the

and

as

in the

opening

pouches they
It

the

of

thick

was

danger

of

on

Pharaoh

probably

than

expect

the

pulled

taking

out

the

the

pockets, and

the
coins

leather

for all three

they

like

sumpter-mules,

Daggs

ran.

they

not

discovered.

thought
214

the

of

tion
perspiraacter
the char-

realized, better

companions,

were

were

finallythey

Knowing

well, he

so

of his

pirates had

When

that

Jeremy's forehead.

either
if

he could. Bob

brought.

forth, laden

crawled

might

had

and

breathlesslyexciting work,

was

aware

their

fingers,filled

his

keg

the others,

gold, piece by piece,while

from

quietly as

what
So

fate

they

far, apparently,

setting a night

THE

guard

the

on

BLACK

ridge. If they

precaution

and

three

trips would

more

His

Behind

of

had

the thick

bush

Then

once

Man

in

sounds,

and

the cabin
All

hunched

through

the shack,

to

develop

told

the

and

It could

for

few

the island.

endlessly

an

listening.

farther

next

or

of
he

from

away

this

made

the

heavy pouch higher

faster

than

iile,they

fore,
be-

reached

adventure.
stood

still it
of

out

the noises

for he

rabbits, there

had

with

been
was

were

"Still," he said, "if

215

and

watch

they expected
that

appeared

sight.The

they

listened
have

watch

which

attack

later. But

hardly

them.

again,

on

day they

had

that

was

in Indian

further

pirates,he thought,

except
upon

forward

ready for the

Swan

of

from

come

their breath,

it

led

and

sooner

night
the

held

piratespreferred to keep
Amos

to

right.For

the straps of his

hurrying
without

the alert.

paused. Neither

seemed

moving rapidly away

at

the

the

to

whatever

his shoulder

on

It had

sudden

southwesterly direction.

more

was

Jeremy
up

also

something crackled,

animal,

or

had

the three

more

time, and

hill

down

the

stopped, instantlyon

the sound.

half-minute

this

themselves,

treasure

interrupted by

Bob

and

caused

the

neglect

to

"

were

Tom

continued

find

to

twig. He

him

them

long

failed

calculations

snapping

BUCCANEER

boys

heard
a

the previous
tenance.
coun-

grave

other

than

quite

certain

no

wild

you

were

had

of

one

that

animals

moving

BLACK

THE

quietly,there's
were

you

noise

small

that, he

he

know

did

must

have

boys, anxious

that

as

believe

to

reason

If

near.

BUCCANEER

the

and

been

made

mighty

knew

man

such

woods-

poor

man:

The

the

trip to

should

nothing

treasure-keg,accepted

prevent

this

other
an-

out
logic with-

demur.
The

following night Amos

the

boys himself, leaving

As

before, they

dark.

inky
breeze

There

that
This

rain.

breath

of

the

the

along

was

previous
the
to
came

them.
a

the

Jeremy

blackness

some

few
at

than
and

for

his

the

exclamation
sort

of

father

box

216

from
in

had

that

the
it

to

were

cleft.

their

on

grope

held

Bob

half-full

Ugh

they

of

found

as

forward

plunged

had

aloft

tops.

bottom

about

pockets were

drew

woods,

later

coins

made

scowlingly

and

they

weather

hemlock

the

faint

treasure-hunters.

moments

barrel

visit.

whispered

"There's

darker

Their

in the

nervously

even

pitchy

looked

and

the

in

foreboded

trees

the

to

cabin.

pistols

sight and

three

was

wind

hillcrest.
about

gathered
It

he

as

himself

the

the

guns,

bad

with

go

hillside

the

among

spiritsof

dismal

in

impending

apprehension

shook

He

of

the

to
at

with

stars

went

accustomed

heard

he

the

guard

on

ascended
no

and

prospect

itself felt in

Jeremy,

and

were

came

Tom

themselves

armed

hunting-knives

and

decided

Swan

when

out

there

the Delaware

here, buried

in

boy.
in

the

BLACK

THE

clutched

Jeremy

and

eastward

drowned

going

his

he

his

dull click

ugly

straightat

the

it strike. Then

up

he

flood.

mile

by

his breath.

under

startled

bare

pulled

The

priming

the cutlass

passed

oath,
at

and

him

tween
beand
not

just
To

the

ing
swing-

feet away.

ten

the

brush

the

figurecoming

piratewas

emy
Jer-

trigger,but only
wet.

was

his head

with

an

desperate, flung his pistol

Jeremy,
the

in

gether.
to-

started

ridge, and

crash

called

tall

saw

As

went

man

in his tracks
across

noise of

the

half

to

the
a

pirate'sface.
as

they

were,

paused panting
apparently they were

across

pistoland

and

close

put

heard

responded.

sound

doubled

started

impossible to keep

was

answered

that instant

At

cut

he

cutlass. The
aimed

to

was

moment
a

descending

had

"Father?"

dismay he

next

the

the others, but

hill, when
him.

above

found.

the chasm, he

and

decided

He

they

as

of

score

been

had

desperate speed,

flightit

Jeremy

for

listened

the

some

over

undergrowth,

the barrel

at

by

of

himself

near.

it debouched

end, where

slope.Burdened

the woods

When

up

the

the haste

In

in the

plunged along

clambered

They

point where

along

through

their

the southern

way!"

on," whispered Jeremy hoarsely,and

"Come

ran

hissingrain, and

emerged

the

yards from

his father. "This

and

the hillside.

upon
boulders

the

toward

chasm

the black

Bob

at

gasped through

he

BUCCANEER

like

the hill.
218

it left his hand

down

hare, and

with
ran

he heard
groan,

he

ing
back, head-

BLACK

THE

It
the

till he

not

was

hardly depend
up

hill and

and

in

down,

carrying a

legs were

He

Somewhere
amid

found

the

of the cabin

the door

to

opened

he

looked

his story,

gasped out
closely to

more

and

shutters

he could

miles,

with

rain,

the flintlock

besides

in his left

far

he

tired

too

crawled,

at

when

staggered in

and

knife

dropped the box,

was

alive

His

to

last,
Tom

his knock.

to

While

gold

he

but

than

dead

like

drenched

he had

him

treasure,

for it. More

look
up

behind

walk.

still clutched

he

down

nearly two

run

of

well

weak

so

clothes

pounds

fowling-piecewhich
hand.

had

heavy

dozen

him

that hurt

his

them.

on

ridge and
dropped to

that he

his ribs, and

between

the

over

in gasps

coming

was

was

home

slope toward

breath

BUCCANEER

fresh

put

the

barring
in the

powder

brother

older

the
of

the

window-

priming-pans

of

the guns.

to

the

gone

still

was

and

skin

jaws. He,
have

after

minutes

Ten

Jeremy

too,

with

missing
sure

grim

at

boys

that if Bob

reach

the cabin, for he had

mind

now.

And

so,

while

their clothes

on

Tom

before

look

had

had

the

appeared, wet

around

his bearded

running, but
when

once

if the

his father

with

spent

was

again

out

was

Jeremy,

he heard
not

would

that

dissuaded

Bob
him.

escaped he would soon

lay of the island well in

kept watch, they lay

the fire.

219

he

down

with

CHAPTER

"^HE

T
when

their

adventure

father

It

was

meal.

The

the

fate.

which

find
not

fallen

into

probable,
hours
trees

At

throw
the

the

clutches

either

passed
above

no

them

length

the

moving

dusk

the

the

had

no

morning
of

spoke hopefully
found

of

that

only

Pharaoh
that

knew
cruel

ing
hid-

could

visage

that

Bob

face, and
the

he

had

lad

pirates.

loopholes, they

return,

the

by

with

thinking

have

conviction

the

at

on

still

scarred

of

of Bob's

attack

an

for

nothing

behind

off

the

to

torchlight. He

little mercy

o'clock,

they

leave, Jeremy

not

the

day, standing

sign

some

in

nine

that

boy might

dared

Jeremy

haggard

was

down

sat

his father
the

on

in.

eat

frightful,

looming

could

All

he

the

remember

would

While

possibility that

place

Daggs

could

youngest

face

come

that

party

followed

to

worried

so

had

if Bob

that

till close

and

damp

night before,

His

looked

gloomy

his chum's
of

them.

he

him

the

slept heavily

and

ask

exhaustion
of

wakened

dawned

morning

sheer

In

watching,
to

the

cold.

Tom

need

November

gray

his

and

XXX

or,

what

buccaneer

form

broke

crew.

the

for

waited

seemed
But

more

as

the

dark

line

of

up

hope

of

slope.

fell,
220

and

they

gave

BLACK

THE

the

seeing

boy again, though

redoubled.

vigilance was
It

about

was

stole

out

stockade
a

bare

fodder

give

to

since

ever

in

coming
Amos

Swan

forth.

two

boys,

hill

to

lines

into

the

cutter

big

man

sheets

stern

shore, he

in
of

now

jumped

land

said.

only

out?

sloop

peered

Seems

Following

had

Jeremy

he

but

there's

"

I'd

Job,

to

the
the

down

run

at

After

his hand.

with

once,

blue

the

waved
in

out

cloak

headed

the
ment
mo-

"it's

shouted,

forget those

not

himself, getting

just stepped

into

the

the

seeing the figures on

in their direction.

hand

minutes

three
upon

up

had

boat, and

the

lad," he laughed, "ye look

was

gone

stood, gazing intently

greeting caught Jeremy's

we

the

I"

enough,

Sure

loophole,and

right,"he
he

Look

her.

been

there's

"

her

his eyes

her

saw

of

fine

bay

excitedly. "Father,"

turned

in

into the cabin.

make

ye

outside.

where

shading

Tiger!

the

northern

all

Jack

beach

craft, and
he

to

he hurried

the

back

is she'? Can

British

Jeremy

I"

went

"What

fly the

the

anchor

to

had

he rushed
'Tn

that

sheep, penned
He

he cried.

by, however,

sunrise

the

their

score

deserted.

first alarm.

when

"Look, father,"

other

went

were

after
to

the

minutes

two

night

island

hours

two

the

on

The

the

quietly as though

as

BUCCANEER

sand

glad

this way,
221

and

in his

hand

did

Job

Captain

to

see

ye

with

big
us.

? But

How-

of

roar

fist. "Well,
know

Didn't

here

we

be I

BLACK

THE

Soon

the

as

for Boston

cargo

the

on

sloop

what

Job

he told

and

town,

Curtis
to

me

home

Bob

wants

had

light

coast

here

up

again. Why

"

boyT'

ails ye,

They

Mr.

ready

was

trip.He

same

BUCCANEER

the

climbing

were

the

noticed

path

toward

look

downcast

on

the shack, when

Jeremy's face,

and

had

ing
dur-

interrupted himself.
In

the

words

few

the brief week

''By the

I And

that

been

him

Brig's

caneer
ex-buc-

treasure,

sure

here, if Bob's

see

"

of

out

the boat's

the

that I" He

swung

all six of whom

crew,

had

the beach.
and

"Adams,

Mason,

you,

off all the

bring

I" muttered

"Sol

get

happened

the island.

on

devil, Daggs

to

got

on

pull

in the port

men

The

small-arms.

and

cutlasses

had

Whale

Bull

hailed

and

remained

and

told what

astonishment.

alive, we've
about

they

Great

in

enough

boy

rest

back

the

to

watch, with
of

you

sloop
their

come

up

here."
As

soon

and

as

shaken
entered

hands

with

place

where

many

men

the other

on

Stede

Daggs

say

this craft

side of the island, close

landed

Bonnet

ther
fa-

us

that

time*?

to

the

How

they ^"

have
don't

Jeremy's

the cabin.

Jeremy," said the skipper,"you

is careened

think

had

brother, they

"Now,

"We

Job

know,"
had

time

the
to

boy replied. "But

gather
222

big crew,

and

don't

what's

BLACK

THE

he'd

more,

figurethe
the

splittingup
men

maybe

"

thought

fewer

gold. I

the better

now."

big pirate who

it

when

if there's

doubt

fourteen

only

of the

BUCCANEER

above

He

fifteen

grinned
him

attacked

had

to

came

he

as

in the

woods.

*'Good," said Job.

Mr.

and

Swan,

I'm

The

of the

crew

action,

An

that

put

under

crowd

you,
ing
count-

twenty,

even

Tiger^ bristlingwith

came

now

what

them

told

can't

we

besides

sixteen

hatches,

sailorman."

no

for

boys.

two

your

myself. If

have

"We'll

Without

up.

and

afoot

was

and

arms

time

Job

forward

up

wasting

they

moved

eager

hill.

the

Once

the

among

the

trees

with

irregular fan-formation,

in

scouting a

oppressive

seemed

men

they

did

feel

to

not

they

as

to

and

Tom

out

Jeremy

stillness of the woods

went

forward.

proceeded

it and

Used

caution.

more

The

little in advance.

almost

was

spread

attacking party

with

All

the
and

more

hurly-burly of sea-fighting,

the

relish this silent

approach against an

seen
un-

enemy.

Clearing
edge
and

of

the

Jeremy

the

ridge they

led

the mouth
down

the

sighted

shore

the

close

beach,

spars

the

down

came

to

the

old

length

at

the

of

the

reedy

inlet.

Working

to

the

place

whence

Bob

of

the

buccaneer,
223

the

pirate anchorage,

along through

way

to

he

bushes

ward
to-

carefully
and

climbed

he

had

above

reeds

the

"She's

vessel

I" he

gone

and

Job

surprise the

his

To

creek.

the

up

disappeared.

had

masts

peered

and

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

it

Certain

turn.

that

was

no

creek

the

in

in

looked

Tom

lay

gasped.

"Perhaps they sighted the Tiger,''suggested Jeremy.

far. They've likely taken
"If so, they can't have
gotten
the

the

of

rest

Bob

must

back,

one

And

gold.

aboard,

be

if

too,

he's still alive."

As

turned

they

down

walked

had

hurried
out

he

drew

with

covered

away

the mud

plate

which
The

only

one

must

have

way

than

more

the

iron

hurry

cry

of

it from

parts.

few

find

the

gotten

we

I"
224

he

silver

net."
Bon-

it, and

saw

hands.

there's

pistol.And
where

sloop'sneck

could

gleam

saw

"Stede

as

here

hours, for there's

Maybe

pistol,

disclosed

Job's

it. See

was

name

"It's Bob's
have

it could

we'd

he

pleasure

into

it

quickly scraping

and

still terrible

quickly

thrown

thinking

past,

we

gave

it

creek,
held

fist. He

Jeremy

mounting

he exclaimed.

"Look!"

on

the
the

bore

mud.

of the

edge

that

saw

who

sailors

the

his

in

sticky lump,

the

from

boy

they

of black

mass

the weapon

thrust

gone

and

of
the

at

object

dark

through

of metal

the reeds

near

go

to

with

up

as

to

as

He

was.

they

went

can't

They

not

catch

it

bit of

them.

be
rust

Job, if

his

in

men,

and

sun

set

boy's pointing finger led their

northern

for the

out

islands,

distant

the

took

ship.Job

the far-off

to

words

hail. No

Jeremy's

to

answer

The

necessary.

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

inlet

again,

the

at

bearings, then

fix his

to

stantly
in-

eyes

look

quick

were

faster

even

than

before.
As

they

they

that

believing

emerged,

Swan

cabin, Amos

island,"

left

the

the

door.

"We

chase

them

"

the enemy.

we're

"

going

to

I"

aboard

Bob's

he

as

relieved.

I" he

Tom

and

you

that

now,

evidently

Jeremy,

panted

their sail

saw

sure,

looked

father

His
"Go

I We're

hand,
before

rout

the

toward

slope

in

gun

in full

were

"They've
reached

the

down

running

came

"I'll stay

said.

mind

and

the island."

Job, with
cutter,

other

and
boat

chest

along

apiece,were

already hailed

had

ashore.

sent

the cabin, and

ready

to

the

Tiger
into

to

order

the
the

hurried

into

Jeremy's

sea-

good pistolsand

embark.

226

starting in

Jeremy

clothes
of

brace

was

and

Tom

stuffingsome

with
soon

of his men,

dozen

cutlass

CHAPTER
"SPHERE

was

when

dozen

the

the

stood
His

voice

of

groan

flapping
It

in
a

in

their

heaving

gaff

the

to

went

itself

heard
the

and

northwest

One

half

capstan
throat

Captain

top.

shouting
the

Job

orders.

new

the

singing,

of

the

canvas,

wind.

clear, sunny

day,

the

the

air, and

jackets tight

side.

the

as

crash

sloop

the

at

above

the

where

forward,

up

terdeck, constantly

the

her

going amidships

was

made

aboard
up

sung
were

tackle-blocks

was

winter

af

action

swarmed

seamen

main

the

on

of

being

another

long

big

boys

was

sturdy

bars, and
of

bustle

chanty
a

XXXI

and

with

boys

approaching

glad

were

into

move

of

bite

the

lee

button

to

of

the

after-

house.

Take

cried, "there's

lads," Job

"Here,

below,

run

cutlasses.

See

if

and

Jeremy,
of

any

those

work

bring

for

muskets

armload

an

up

too.

you,

need

of

cleaning,

Tom."
scurried

Jeremy
forward

small
to

along
arms

see

broadside

that

near

the
guns,

the
the

the

down

companion

starboard
fo'c's'le

sloop
beside

gun

hatch.

carried
a

long
227

full
brass

deck

to

Jeremy

the
was

rack

of

pleased

complement
cannon

and

ladder,

in the

of

ten

bows.

BLACK

THE

In fact, she
tubs

likelyto give

was

grips with

to

come

Stepping
the

about
sail

bay

islands

filled

think

they

"When
miles

in

of it

reach

the

sight in

be

port. The
but

as

pirate
several

them.

Captain.

far ahead

"How

Job.

answered

do

sea-

ing
they'remak-

"If

close

them

near

come

four

about

were

three

to

they'recarrying much

shan't

We

more.

if

But

ing
just com-

asked.

the westward,"

then.

already

direction, it seemed

passed beyond

are'?" he

had
was

west,

in that

the

to

with

piled

and

ordinary sailing,they've gained

since

if she could

arms

sloop

tack

sighted 'em, they

we

to

the

starboard

approached

Jeremy

and

Tiger, he thought,

his

more,

horizon

the

round-shot

of herself

account

that

long

she had

likelythat

you

her

on

longer

no

was

The

gun.

once

found

make

to

pilesof

The

the buccaneers.

deck

on

hangers, Jeremy
cleared

each

good

regular man-o'-war.

little

neat

beside

stood

cannister

like

armed

was

filled and

were

BUCCANEER

it may

canvas

before

more,

dark,

at

any

rate.

He

cast

an

eye

followed.

The

jibs,with

was

Tiger

single reef

scudding along

racing by,
with
canvas

aloft

once

at

in her
a

delight. He

had

twice, but

fore

great

the

or

Jeremy's

carrying topsails and

was

below

close

spoke, and

he

as

lee

never

228

and
with

rate

gunports.
Stede

seen

in

so

whitecaps

Jeremy
Bonnet

good

both

sails. She

main
the

gaze

cause.

tled
whiscrowd

BLACK

THE

The

wind

held

strength rather
far

to

BUCCANEER

the

from

than

northwest,

sped along close-hauled

port,

the

decreasing,and

on

in

gaining

sloop, heeled
west-sou'

west

course.

After

three-quartersof

they
a

close

were

tack. A

Though

gap.

beat

to

they

crossed

rough

narrowest

Job

part.

straighton

as

fast

length they came

stretch

dot

the

At

of sail

the

wind

would

keen

and

black

Tom

with

stood

first mate,

"It's all

clear

sailin' ahead,

the

islands

Tiger hung

for

eye

tack

second

with

"Here,
"Hold

at

the

sail, but

steered

take

And

him.
saw

great

with

at

faint,

from

the

seamen,

lean, wind-browned
the tiller where

to

Captain. It

himself

this an'

the

Maine

sir," he

coast

man.

"No

more

said.
if

Cape Cod,

Isaiah

was

they

follow

they're on."

course

The

'twixt

into

shoal

and

up

aft

the

Job's

or

went

came

eyes

ing
sight-

edge.

rail. A

Hawkes,

reefs

them

the southwestward

port

of sailing

the other

on

black

of the headland

its farthest

at

the

along

with

Jeremy

shorten

sighta hearty cheer

clustered
man

grim,

not

to

sea

brought

did

clear

of open

white

as

over

swung

starboard
a

this kind

of

of islands, and

group

the northward,

to

passage

the

to

hour

an

her

or

bang

with

Isaiah, take
as

she

then

two,

of her

is
"

in the wind's

flutteringcanvas
main

the
two

settled

away

the

on

port

boom.

tiller," said

points
229

to

Job,

windward

at

length.
of

the

BLACK

THE

sloop. You'll

other

he
in

of the

the breech

shouting

had

breech

the gun

that

he

deck

of the

plunging

the

the Queen.

in Bristol, she

bear

to

from

let you

talk
he

ocean

the breeze
shaken
Then

jib set.
quarters

the

fierydisk
the

across

the

brought
that

was

ahead.

sea

chuckled,

he

of the

starboard

sun

bow.

lightened perceptibly,and
out

he

aft, had

and

gal,"

bright

"we'll

'em."

to

spoke,

the

speck

in

had

barrel, and

left till he

still hull-down

pirate sloop,

the old

the

patted

white

and

hiss

'94.There's

in

was,

Job,

never

the brazen

the

on

schooner

"She's

Bonnet

he

right to

squarely

way

asked

the

above

Stede

tells it." And

nose

his

made

the forefoot.

morning, Polly, my

below

at

the bow.

at

heard

"Come

reefs

look

boys,

lovingly,sighting along

swinging

into

'em

which

us,

have

to

up

night,"
to-

keep

to

two

under

this. Cast

letters

As

able

gal afore, Jeremy'?"

water

aboard

piece like

the

going

himself

make

to

of the

we

the

be

they've sighted

swivel-gun

this

seen

thunder

the

steeply canted

the

"Ever

I'm

have.

by

Accompanied

gun

shan't

"We

lookout

extra

an

Poll' now."

'Long

to

set

this distance, if

likely they

along

to

want

continued.

sight at

most

BUCCANEER

turned

of the
and
been

fore

the

and

Job

mainsails

was

slipping

With

sunset

the

ordered
and

an

extra

boys, who, although they

assigned to

in.
230

the port

watch,

had

went

CHAPTER

XXXII

Stumbling

JEREMY,
his

seaman's

breeze
the

along

the

on

radiance

wind

The

rising

the

rail and

the

down

lookout

bright

tion
sta-

loud

hands

to

the

in

taut

cling

harder

like

the

and

stays

the

over

faint

blowing

was

stars

wind.

threw

and

It

with

in the

west

seas.

smashingly

Job, with

terrific
the
the

amount

burned

like candle-flames

boomed

foremast

thrashing

during

forward

way

his

up

the

bow

at

times,

monkeys

the

to

rigging.

Captain

his

took

sky

heaving

broke

waves

forcing

at

the

worked

He

for

ears,

bow.

rode

across

his

about

up

midnight

moon

eight bells, pulled

at

rail and

flicker

to

half-grown

the

weather

the

seemed

now.

cold.

starboard

Overhead
that

greatcoat

came

high

deck

on

tiller

staunch

little

to

reach

of

the

that

in the

captains

broke

sailing records
dared

had

but

craft

sloop

with
was

great

Yankee

captured

walk

their
231

grimly

at

southwestward

single-reefed again

been

its climax

and
to

the

the

was

ening
still fresh-

wind

carrying

Howland

Job

breed

they

sails

stood

help him,

drove

watch,

canvas.

was

to

and

gait. The
mate's

of

Tom

enormous

an

sailor

hundred

years

clippers
"

the

tall

of

world's

ships,

men

trade

the
later
who
cause
be-

full-can-

BLACK

THE

BUCCANEER

vased, past the heavy foreign merchantmen

in half

triplereefs

under

by

One

of the chase, stuck

bow

His

gun.

the
How

pirate schooner
Bob

was

had

for

he

the

fleeingcraft.

with

things that
thought
nearly

hemp

the

of

meted

his

the

case

his captors.

that

Pharaoh

to

him.

He

boy

there

And

long

felt

again

lowed
fol-

aboard

would

be

other

were

aloud

had

he

as

so

once

pitilessgleam

the

nonade
can-

the bite of the

pirate.Would

against

score

Daggs

that

saw

the

of

sea

on,

running fight,their

fate

out

the

on

was

happen. Jeremy groaned

light eyes

strange

his chum

that
to

came

his wrists, and

at

settle

could

long

alive, he wondered,

off

gotten

her, in which

sink

along

drowned

If it

constantly

the

close.

believe

to

come

might

be

to

excitement

thoughts, racing

his

while

the

the rail beside

at

fixed

were

eyes

abeam,

and

ahead

his post

to

by. Jeremy,

went

shivering,but thrillingto

and

drenched

wind.

of the watch

the hours

one

gale of

that rolled

Daggs

boys by

in the

try

some

to

heard-of
un-

brutality?
A

hail

sudden

the lookout
"Where

on

the other

away'?"

"Three

points

"an'

not

in upon

cut

on

above

the port
a

league

Jeremy, straininghis
the dim

patch

side had
Job's

came

his

eyes

of sail ahead.

232

thoughts. "Sail

hoi"

cried.

deep shout.
bow,"

answered

the

man,
sea-

off I"
into

the

night, made

out

ful

Captain,

times, when

big

beam

back

hard

rudder

panted

reckon

we

boy

the
"Job

play

three

or

arms

of

the

as

you

much

the

"By
grasped
work

thrashing

turns

the

to

each

so

this

her
to

as

move

Then

could

only

to, either

Bull

let

234

of

hold

keep

tiller

little

the
as

move

"

Job

out,

laughed,

anyhow.

"up

with

as

he

wouldn't

if that

wonder

ship'scarpenter,

with

it back

way

Whale,"
"I

from

line

drum,

the

and

here

bring

her

deck, close

the

windlass

give

yet

pulley

on

why

but

"

reeve

and

one,

tiller,

recommenced:
you

"Then

you

and

to

the

of

end
he

places

around

boy's plan,
the

the

little

quarter.

windlass,
needed

Rig

indicated

He

Great

keep

to

we,

"And

effort.

sides, and

Jeremy, boy, we'll find

called

be

only

the

be free

to

at

both

on

through

four

fast

foolish

way!

for'ard, there.

way

he

her

either

on

beam

rapidly. Finally

this

"

tiller-end

the

yaw

that, don't

such

fro

sound

lash

"

rail

the

could

does

one

it has

and

to

may

here

one

would

At

"

thought

we

the

I see,

staggered

look

"

lash

No,

she

after

boy

Still

this

"

couldn't

to

we?

time.

he

As

the

couldn't

could

all the

she

by jamming

when

headway

Job*?"

way,

course.

over.

lose

"We

her

points, and

windward

to

on

caught her,

sea

several

fearfully, falling off

brought

schooner

the

hold

to
a

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

Braistedl"

some

lumber

THE

and

good

BLACK

line

stout

you've got them.

In

the

on

deck,

and

few

the

length
keeping
to

final

his

Jeremy

forward

"Avast

looking

there

from

watch

side

side

to

as

he let go

Taking
once

grip

or

her

helm

under

had

it

working

Jeremy

spite of

feel how

he

handsomely.

He

found

big skipper
the

as

lass
wind-

gathered

Job

himself

them

in

to

was

Jeremy's

to

spun

back

answered
a

using

was

and

bellow,

the

and

that

direction.

the vessel

contraption,

new

he

hurried

spokes,

that

position was

had

laughter, and

to

spokes

himself

who

still

boy jumped

bass

saw

at

motioned

in either

Job's

came

the

on

tied, Job,

The

rapidly

the tiller and

twice,
this

hub.

seamen

roaring with

were

forth

in

The

turned.

chuckling
and

I"

a vast

"

When

tiller beam,

to

of

matter

The

out

began

the idea.

slightpull

his shoulder,

over

was

the

with

Job

of the rude

two

the windlass

swing

if

tackle

was

been

the

from

but

one,

had

on

seized

and

It

of the windlass.

horizontally

he could

side.

hold

eagerly

awkward

flung

take

of

caught

knot

clutch

the

direction

he

once

stout

mighty

to

radiated
an

only,

moments

tumbled

Jeremy's scheme.

to

blocks

spare

I"

the

under

of

pair

had

carpenter

rig it according
a

and

Lively, now

jiffythe

BUCCANEER

moment

the

first

ship'ssteering-wheel.
The

during

sloop, which

had

this interlude,

now

yawed

and

struck

235

lost
her

some

headway

stride

again, and

BLACK

THE

with

along

drove
closer

perceived
strike

Jeremy

"She

before

the

Indeed,

in

the

"And

at

to

this

gait we'll

noticed

the

difference
their

lining the bows, waving

yelling

excitement

with

the

between

distance

the

watched

long enough

the back.

on

already

were

and

air

hand

one

cried.

had

crew

Job

possible before.

I"

noon

sailing,and

in their
caps

I" he

boy

half-point

full

steady, a

been

blow

mighty

works,

them

catch

had

loosed

and

this

held

nose

than

wind

the

to

her

BUCCANEER

craft

two

they

as

slowly

shorten.
An

hour

been

Job

had

to

the wheel

picked

heavy charge

of it he drove

of

in the

powder

muzzle

schooner, whose
sniffed
eye.

and

wind

held

up

hull

on

depend
the

in

signal to
only

the

cant

of the

long gunner's

match

236

as

now,

home

On

top

above

the

he

topsailsof

brought

the

pirate

plainly visible.
the

were

bent

forth

now

was

movement
on

the

"nine."

then

and

measured

and

his hand

allowed

Holding

black

bear

his calculations

When

swivel
must

the

to

and

ramming

was

long

the round-shot,

swivel-breech, swinging it back

the cannon's

pirate sloop

Hawkes,

to

over

help him,

to

men

down

of the

to

mile.

bare

turned

three

with
a

cut

below

sent

were

lead

ready their pieces,for the

make
had

the gunners

passed, and

with

distance

He

his

complete he turned
the helmsman.
from
deck

side

to

As

the

side, he

for his elevation.

lighted in

his hand,

THE

he waited

for the

lifted

was

on

then

flare, and

roar

as

the

the

at

ahead

sea

of the other

shot

that

at

to

work,

reloading

his

he

while

windward
back

of

were

one.

Grimly

sweeping

about

but
his

into

there I" he

something

the

cried.

white

the

Job

hands.
for
deck

enemy

that

ment
mo-

then

the crash

just ahead

close

so

"

at

and

long

with

fell

was

tarily
momen-

chance,

more

the shot

time

sky

already

was

favorable
once

did
splen-

of the gun

There

was

was

swabbing-out

with

his

target,

swift

was

his

the

and
spray

from

he

movement

Jeremy,

better

for

"They're

lowering

237

difficult

third attempt.

forestays

mist-clouds

task

certainty of

shout

in it, like

the

but

rendered

past

preparations for

there

Suddenly

distance.

astern

harder

it grew

umn
col-

yards
The

seaway.

ing
watch-

rigging.

bracketed

that

climbed

the

in

and

the

the

into

had

Job

cheered, for it

and

clear

length a

hundred

scant

terrific

forward,
At

hiss

blown

was

eagerness.

crew

at

was

two

or

bow

tion,
right direc-

There

leaned

one

tense

waited

discharge.This

of her

smoke

own

shook

Poll"

"Long

fired. The

distance

with

train.
second

lifted,a

superintending

in the

every

objects

see

of

windward,

to

the schooner's

swinging

end

with

spray

when

powder

sloop. The

thickening

went

the

charge was

of white

blew

and

instantly,and

the

to

second

wave

BUCCANEER

exact

touched

and

almost

BLACK

flagof

truce

view.

boat.
I"

who

had
"Look

There's

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

pirate vessel

In the lee of the

the

tossing crazily in

seen

heavy

spyglass, looked

his

for

called

small

seas.

boat

could

Job,

who

and

long

be
had

earnestly

at

tiny craft.

the

but

"There's

showing

"and

he's

says.

Here,

if you

out

boy focussed

The

frantic

the

I"

"It's Bob
used

we

here.'

'Come
He

had

fore

and

away

Five

to

figure in

we

it stood

up,

the other.

side and

when

have

already

southeast,

the

to

The

one

hardly finished
Job.

screamed.

"That's

hunting.

were

It

nal
sig-

means

"All

speaking

when

stand

hands

"Port

"

by

to

slack

your

the

sheets I"

main

fell off the

leeward,
minutes

dripping, to

sloop, see

"

Tiger

The

the

the little boat, which

glass on

almost

Jeremy

to

I" roared

helm

to

arms

Jeremy

as

more."

nearly opposite their bows.

waving

on

eyes

length,

at

something white,

bit of

drifting rapidly

now

was

lad, you've the best

make

can

in it,"he announced

man

one

bowing
later

wind
into

they

with
the

hauled

the deck.

238

lurch

running
Bob,

and

spun

seas.

drenched

and

CHAPTER
boy

p^jpN^HE

hardly

him

with

him

he

here

I"

how

But

it

do

The

have

at

the

propped

up

about

and

Jeremy

I What's
seize

to

big mariner,

let

to

get

and

hand.
relief

aboard

off

you,

doing

mighty

you

he

his

friends

all your

ahead.
in

Bob

bunk

him.

the

here.

easy? We

so

mighty lucky

his

of

and

cabin

hastened

brandy

was

hidden

now

the

to

friends

pull

and

again

pirate,

helped

was

while

on

of

pursuit

wind

the

into

come

in

dry clothes

some

the

Job

aft

fight to

had

westward

murk

Tom

as

old

strode

devils

to

looked

I"

that

schooner

heading
in

those

we'd

figured
to

latter

laughed

came

he

he

weak

so

companion.

in his face, "we're

showing

and

but

grin

"here's

gasped,

"Ay, lad,"

alone,

eager
the

the

as

haggard

and

stand

an

toward

"Why,"
up

pale

was

could

helped

XXXIII

to

get

stopped

his

shivering.
"I

you

sure

worried

were

chance
in

of

none

soberly. "But,

said
are

thought

the

they

Job,
lost

you've
about
had

you

dirty weather,

to

I tell

before

sight

set

me

while

239

see

ever

of

and

adrift
you

you

Daggs'

shooting,

your

was

would

were

and

alive," he

me

all

sloop?

figured
then

it,

about

the

get

fishing me

They
only
away
out.

BLACK

THE

They'd

have

never

hadn't

mighty

BUCCANEER

given

near

me

if that

up

through

gone

and

shot

second

through

the

old

I knew

the

cut

Kevengey
"The

that

of

no

chance

more

But

And

of

it may

seel Go

we'll

once

"After

hill that

for

When

leaning

us,

me

over

pretty

without

time

I got

was,

in the rain
of

and

the hill I should

decide.

Finally

Which

way

must

biscuit,

Aha,

to

the way

blowing

240

by

for

be

when
I.

the cabin

"

times, I

be
we

the

right on
side

the life of

don't

to

where

just

several

north,' says
to

I started

to

myself, 'Here,

was

torchlight

figure which

I couldn't

wind

it

tell

I seemed

to

sense

thing,I'll

one

So

zig-zagged

I tried

all my

going, and

was

the

on

barrel, it frightened

senses.

dark.

down,

the

be

lad I"

up

face in the

I couldn't

I had

I said

was

the shack'?

then, this

the

for

treasure

of my

run,

lose

to

Daggs'

out

to

scared

by the

when
go

seemed

was

back,

and

and

then

my

yarn,

stack.
hay-

night, and

munching

started

of where

idea

ridge,but

remembered,

saw

nearly
wits

my

the

there

an

in

tell his story.

while.

and

tea

have

we'd

needle

spin your

and

now

to

freelyadmit.

from

before

night," he said, "I

of direction

top

clear

separated,

we

this minute
than

again

tool

painted black,

was

finding 'em

ahead

more

thought

Just

Bob, swigging hot

began

run,

she

and

big mainsail,

their trick succeeded.

Well,

"I

said Job.

Revenger

of
me

fool I

set

out

'Very well,

straightinto

BLACK

THE

ugly-lookinga
gathered

as

ever

I'll tell you,

looks

but

has

hearties, Daggs

rascals

if he'd

as

the others

And

saw.

my

lot of

pretty

up

of 'em

one

customer

lambs.

no

were

BUCCANEER

this

in

knife

for

you

Not

crew.
a

copper

farthingI
through
and

the

all wet,

were

on

in

and
of

they

had

in

was

ugly

an

disappointed in

was

mighty

fear

his head

with

men

had

clean

gotten
I

for me,

after

already how

knew

they asked

I didn't

When
could
wanted

make

to

of Pharaoh

them

till

night.Seemingly

come

on

in, and

Things

they

treasure

and

you

looked

he

had

of their best

one

father

your

black

the

out

go

is his mate,

they had grumbled

many

about

they had
get

laid

one

at

swore

of

the mulatto, who

question me,

but

away.

no

curs.

amount

beaten

other

enough

tell you.

can

*'Daggs and
to

the

he

pistol

my

dozen

but

that

that, they had

Besides

found.

mood

to

way,

my

went

goldpieces I
They
appear.

the

for

temper

he finallycame,
Daggs. When
they slunk around like whipped
*'He

took

began

came

curses

for

me,

dividing

bad

time, but

no

hurry. They

of the crowd

rest

Plenty

reasons.

hand

in

quarreling about

were

had, when

pockets

my

fire wasted

the

by

four

"These

your

of you
guns

there
and

they

right over

held
before

242

at

in

They

the cabin,

supplies.Of

course,

in the

telling.
they thought they

all the information

of me,

awhile.

were

weaker

stronghold any

started

sort

of council.

light and

attack

Some

the

THE

Others

cabin.

BLACK

BUCCANEER

for

broaching a

were

of

barrel

first,

rum

and

cided
making thorough preparations.Finally Daggs deit off until they could get some
to put
pitch and

dry

grass

"It
back

through

When

the roof.

to

tumbled

the

on

sloop,leading me
mile

or

schooner

they

stuck

put

down

me

the cold I

pile of

nearest

swamp.

pair

of

dog-tiredthat

so

and

chains

old

man

the ballast. In

on

was

one

the

of

down

so,

for

enough
mud

the

the filth and

they started

and

deep in the

and

me

on

half

wide

only

ankle

reached

handcuffs

their

travelled

trail

and

we

spiteof

fire

set

toward

reeds
We

black

time,

the

them.

with

crooked

at

to

as

nearly daylightby this time,

was

along
a

ready, so

went

I
to

sleep.
"I woke

up

stiff and

so

ever

was

life. I made
the

reach

your

of the
who

but

one

me

and

gave
He

water.

was

I learned
for

pitch and
"As

you

to

the hatch

with

my

hands,

hard

tussle.

I don't

and
and

hungry

and

found

so

it

Try

think

in my
I could

pulled myself

some

time

with

tied I

hands

"Most

him

mighty

afternoon,

uncomfortable
over

way

my

combing

after

up,

late in the

your

in their bunks,

keeping watch on deck took pity on

a
couple of biscuits and a swig of

was

me

more

or

that

less talkative, besides, and

Daggs planned

side of the island,

tinder,
may

forward

pirateswere

so

as

to

roast

imagine, this
243

you

kind

to

start

about

from
night
mid-

carrying buckets

of

out.

of talk

nearly

turned

BLACK

THE

sick with

me

Daggs
"He
used
he

to

deck.

on

that empty

had

when

straightand

walked

with

us,

above

'Look

I' If I had,

right there.

He

till he

cat,

hardly
with

with

he

like the work

"I crept

of

the

been

mad

of the

freely.Most
had

the

and

then

and

the

while

I
I

some

Revenge,

only

was

at

of

And

by
back

run

was

Then,

so

fast

the

the

the

one

dropped

man

Daggs

went

noise.

any

more

was

fast

as

as

might

dark, when

keg

of

liquor

and

too

leg

rum

some

had

going

was

wild

the

to

glad. No

we

around
had

for the first time

244

them

cannikin

looked

nights

foremast,

between

forth

spigot.I

then

on

man.

out.

man

already drunk, but they

were

me

till after
me

crew

me

barrel.

remembered
the old

made

like

decks

waist, and

chain

to

sense

skimped

the

toes

making
of

below

got

rousted

in

his

rail. And

than

life

my

hit the other

not

on

yelled

me

all, for his attack

stayed hidden

buccaneers

opened

the

but

dog

and

away

I almost

all. The

was

at

me

fixed

us.

he

ward
to-

his eyes

cost

we

course,
over

have

from

against

saw

of

there I

be, and

feet

Of

came

along, light on

himself

to

he

as

and

might

happened,

back

off, chuckling
think

it

his fist. That

his head

don't

but

pirate'sshoulder,

two

what

drunk.

was

showing

walked

stood

knew

the chin

the

he

that

in his eyes

glare

even,

his teeth

point just
out

of

sort

sometimes

see

of it Pharaoh

the midst

right in

fear, and

came

BUCCANEER

seen

was

and
on

I realized

5
"
w
J

o
o
on

h
Q

o
h

"

Q
W
h
"

h
in
w

BLACK

THE

that

the deck

hold

of the old

Charles

I stood

her

"Pharaoh

her bottom

morel

Where

famous

the

crew

till

rest

were

lying like pigs about

slightly enough
but

"

it

sort

any

was

useless

of

endeavor.

than

more

"He

grunt

stood

there

looked

and

shook
He

below.

he

held

it

of

think

to

heavy boot,
cursing for

rousing
one

but

too,

those

sots

to

them

of

two

or

minute,

that held

make

hardly

it got

mighty tenderly,

he

and

over

came

the foremast-

in

up

in

seemed

that

cloth

he

before

solid

was

done

then
to

me

it

sure

something

had

sobered

had

He

them.

from

to

of

two

night'sundertaking

kicked

He

the shackle

at

foot, and
went

his

with

savagely

the

remember

to

"

with

returned, the

he

the deck.

but

know,

ashore

When

nearly midnight.

throats
cut-

shame.

to

crew

was

of

gang

I don't

at

she

here

the

somewhere

was

auctioned

was

and

gathered,

were

Daggs

she

up

Bonnet's

Stede

put

once

They'd gotten

the samel

was

sloop when

patched

Town,

aboard

they

on

black

buccaneering

"

BUCCANEER

better

humor.
"I curled
a

up

on

which

greatcoat

pirates,succeeded
"When

managed
get

out

themselves

morning
to

and

wake

the deck
I found
in

beside

of

one

keeping reasonably

came

most

forage for
crossed

by wrapping myself

and

the

and

Daggs
of the

and

wood

ridge
245

to

drunken

warm.

his mulatto
and

men

the

in

forced

water,

reconnoitre.

mate

them

while

to

they

I think

it

BLACK

THE

about

was

the

aboard

stayed
hill. The

of breath

out
"

he cried.

lose

holes.

schooner

lines

men,

with

The

sloop
A

bottom.

tide's

hemp

the

picked
the

side,

in the northern

boat

full

past

haven't

We

now.

Cut

already!

I'

cove

any

those

I'

moorings
"The

the

"

the

down

reached

Daggs

who

us

his haste.

ten-gun

of

those

boarding-pikes and

moment

when

figuresrunning

saw

'They're landing

to

and

in

sunrise

out

got

with

'There's

time

sloop

buccaneers

cutlasses, but

up

after

hours

two

BUCCANEER

few

slashed

were

with

accord, jumped

one

was

through

on

an

keel

even

shoves

strong

the

to

push-

just off

and

her

started

cutlasses

the

down

the

for

there

creek.

"My
I was,
to

wanted

I
to

had

you

my

eye

been

pistolswere

"

"We
of

the

the

that

one

crew

who

till

we

were

down,

like

heap

I had

of small

near

be

at

picked

the

the

powder,

246

mouth,

poles

pistolup

just hauling

The
but

of my

Bonnet's.

Stede

the creek

not

arms

forehatch.
no

abouts.
where-

my

bright silver mountings

to

out

put

cow

desperation, for

the

near
as

go

least of

at

little

me,

used

were

the sails. I

waited

to

drawing

were

on

down

the

saw

sign

fell

thrown

in

me

some

useless

them

among

around

leave

to

the fore-stick

to

looked

Then

own

escaping began

still chained

grass.

that

of

hopes

were

and

busy

unobserved

clear

of

those

the

furling
un-

and

creek.

BLACK

THE

have

it'll be

mist, and

the

off into

got

BUCCANEER

hard

follow

to

them."
Job

he

length

At

blew

above

deck-beams

the
"Did

Daggs

or

where

they

were

'They
from

mate

"

if he

him
in

much

of

hurry

coast.

All

so

now,

And

we'll

place

Spanish

anywhere

in

of those

one

of

out

now

to

till

clear

"

I'm

have

us

we'll

Cod.

run

Daggs
start

in

to

in front

of

he's

mistaken

much

time

"

won't

place

rather

waste

Cape

swered.
an-

nightfall

then

and

"

he

thought,"

tack

this

in his

to

for the

down

as

unless

replied,

coast."

about
on

Bob

back

doubling

right.Bob, lad, you'llbe wanting sleep

leave

tucking

in the

of the

by the mulatto

then

in

Jersey

for he'd
And

the

up

toward

boy, asked,

putting

water

I would

behind.
a

openly,"

intend

the wind,

right away,

than
too

the

hold

before

figgersas

leeward

the

speak

and

the Kennebec,

just off

sou'-sou'east

for

'That's
we'll

it

now

they

land

along

nodded.
"So

interrupt him.
smoke

to

ever

heading

were

think

they

inlets

Job

we're

dropped

I don't

the way

rest

about

talked

words

first,unless

turning

the

to

narrative,

going?"

figuredthey

Islands.

and

of

any

never

"but

Bob's

of blue

cloud

great

seemed

pipe. He

kept silent, unwilling

the others

and

his

at

points in

of the

cogitating some

be

to

thoughtful, pulling

sat

you.

On

the blankets

bunk, Job

led

about

the way

248

with

deck

to

the
the

you,

boys

drowsy

I"

ster
young-

companion.

XXXIV

CHAPTER
mist

[/" ws^HE

and

fair

still

half

expecting

ploughed

for

there

the

see

moment

the

only

were

the

into

grim,

Revenge

in the

opened

the

and

seas

uneasy

and

ahead,
the

of

the

with

gloom

sails

aisle

gray

the

obscurity

the

forward

stayed

ghostlike
a

into

along

streaks,

and

somewhat,

abated

had

speed. Jeremy

to

in swirls

past

wind

peering constantly

whenever
But

of

rate

lookout,

the

though

Tiger
at

sweeping

was

mist.
ing
shift-

fog.
Before
not

wish

the

end

to

of

The

below,

far

second

and

wind

watch

the

the

fell

too

get

sheets

slack

the

darkness

ahead

to

the

of

the

for

from

escape

southward

and

the

the

gave

did

order

to

run.

night, and

Jeremy

stinging

he

about

And

enemy.

in the

bitterly cold
Tom

sail, for

he

watch

away

changed

was

shortened

dog

fall

turned

glad

Job

staggered
that

snow

when

filled

air.

But

to

rose

sun

and

hardly

floor

chorus

that

with

day

had

the

of

shouts
as

of

bright

he

watch
from

burst

was

cleared.

and

water

rays

below
the

weather

the

blue

its first level

when

Jeremy,

snow-flurry

shot

across

tumbled

The

sharp wind,
the
out

ocean

by

deck.

upward
249

through

the

hatchway,

BLACK

THE
cast

of

an

joy, as

the

raced

the

boys,

and

order

to

the

boomed

reached

Job

Captain

and

her

and

Revenge

the deck

shake

whoop

over

canvas

barely

tant,
league dis-

pirate crew.
only

instant

an

uttered

white

of

gleam

There, straightahead

the bows.

behind

the

caught

he

then

either beam,

to

eye

eager

BUCCANEER

couple

later

his

all reefs

out

of

jumps
voice

deep
and

the

set

top-sails.
who

Bob,

had

hearty breakfast,
fit for any
the bows

and

The

to

of

at

move

the

danger
But

in

at

great
with

they went

from

into

up

her

all the

of

more

Job
her

on

into

at

the

schooner's

old
canvas

her

speed that had

250

Tiger
ing-wheel
steer-

the helm

could
far

with

than

tiller.

seemed

vj'ixh her

flyingdown
made

less

would

headlong speed,

Revenge
was

the

Jeremy's

trough

quarry

ful
skippers fear-

course

the old hand

and

bow

to

stern

driving

once

over

the

most

was

its worth.

with

all. The

spread

Job

Now

swung

spite of

scarcely

ing
Jeremy's side, look-

made

schooner

case

between

wind

under.

proving

distance

and

her

being

eaten

sluggishly.Beneath

more

have

terrific pace.

the

been

have

Tom

would

plunging

of

With

and

more

was

hold

at

they surged by

as

running

along

appeared

and

the chase.

on

of sail that

press

around

shortly joined there by others of the

were

swells

seemed

soon

adventure.

all intent

crew,

clock

slept the

her

to

tall

lessen
sticks
the

before
name

the

by-

BLACK

THE

the

and

word,

All

Cod,

the

chances

his pursuers.

as

went

the

seemed
for

before

range

dark."

rate

he

went

And

forward
his

shook

He

this

Cape

gained

bit, came

miles," he said. "At

"Two

have

his eye.

with

of

dunes
to

the

when

noon,

white

high

the distance

was

At

on.

wheel

the

leaving

measured

within

nose

chase
on

evidently

the broken

starboard, the Tiger

little. Job,

head.

many

flashed

sun

to

and

as

morning

winter

with

man

take

willing to

BUCCANEER

can't get

we

back

his

to

steering.
for

But
the

he

once

and

escaping

overland

an

over

the idea

the

of

foretop

hour

or

little

by

of

more

little

in

running

fall.

should

night

as

soon

as

in the

lookout

the

Now

hauling

possibly with

the coast,

toward

been

had

buccaneers

For

mistaken.

was

Tiger

gave

cheer.

"They've caught
"Watch

us

Sure

lightair

to

their

that

hauling
"By
forward

up

the

the

The

but

of the

Cape,

hand

over

Great

hand

Bull

Whale

I load

big gunner-captain

before

on

her

shouted.

I" he

he had

done

worked

ramming
251

could

boys
the

of

area

an

wind,

Job,

see
was

leaping

Hold

chance!

our

the

into

adversary.

I" roared

the deck, "now's

while

the

and

still had

sloop, which

own

she is,Hawkes,

as

wind

sailed

had

Revenge

leeward

along

in the

flaw

up!"

come

enough

her

long gun."
rapidly

down

as

always,

the round-shot,

BLACK

THE

pirate schooner

the

try. She
broadside

BUCCANEER

within

was

lay

off the

but

still

on,

Tiger

bow, almost

to

away

tance
long-dis-

starboard

far

too

for

range

her

use

own

guns.

he put

match

Almost

sails of

wheel, then
this time

powder

to

gain

at

little

her

rival

her

forward

the

end

maneuvered

swivel

base

once

stood

he

the

the

of

by

the

could

Tiger
she

headway,

was

of

quarter

excellent

an

had

the
mored
hu-

seaman,

ficing
sacri-

starboard, bit by bit, without

speed.
minutes

the
or

then

gaping

heard
in

the

rent,

252

Job
back

cannon

twice, and

discharge the boys

chainshot, and

was

of twenty

grunt,

actual
to

began

the chase.

though

closer

over

who

to

in

who

finished

had

she

heavy charge

extra

that

apparent

on

great

he

strongly in

the bow-chaser,

loaded

an

beyond.

pace.

grim silence, watching

the craft

and

harmlessly
sea

the mate,

again

length

at

and

more,

with

and

Revenge. Hawkes,

the

flew

drew

breakneck

word

gradually pulling

At

once

it. When

carry

in

the wind

chainshot

became

soon

the shot

powder,

Revenge

returned

with

the breech
It

the

aft for

ran

when

but

care,

moment

same

southward

plunging
Job

the

to

the

at

his usual

pirate'srigging,striking the

the

through
the

with

aimed

Job

gave
and

fired. Above

the screech

through

forth
the

of the

Revenge's

satisfied

on
roar

its

of

whirling

mainsail

the tattered

peared
ap-

edges

BLACK

THE

of

the

which

howl

of

joy

wind

from

the

Job

hauled
Job

within

to

up

called

the

sail. This

five

the

done, and

below,

where

sharp

orders

an

watch

When

on

he looked

yards
deck

back

ran

his station

to

had

of

ward
south-

on

took

turn

few

gave

after

the

on

her,

shorten

to

of the
guns,

each

at

the

they

sloops holding

two

his

mainsail,

torn

gait, the Captain

even

and

man

through

six hundred

or

of the port

men

about

at

her

by

already falling abeam.

was

to

an

in the waist.

spy-glass. Handicapped
Revenge

for

waiting

deck, watching the enemy

on

was

the hatches

pell-mell down

cannon

stayed

without

and

crew,

There

unhindered.

passed

order, they tumbled

the broadside

BUCCANEER

deck.
"All
within

he

ready, Hawkes,"
hundred

The

mate

fiftyfathoms

and

the

spun

wheel

schooner, answering, drew

"Close
But

enough

even

as

broadside, there
a

shot crashed

the

right below,"

church.

sharp

came

"Ready
"Fire

The

I" the

deck

roar

the

shouted

starboard

rocked

cannon

beneath
253

to

up

cried

into

of the

the

and

the enemy.
Job.

position

for

and

pirate'sguns,

forestays,while

along

five

starboard,
to

swung

us

of her I"

helm,"

your

Tiger

spray

to

nearer

the

through

short, threw
"All

port

"

called, "bring

ing
others, fall-

the deck.

Captain Job, steady

I" And

broadside

spoke

in

at

quick

Jeremy's feet,

as

his

sion.
succes-

where

he

BLACK

THE

stood

by

the

BUCCANEER

companion, ready

to

carry

Job's

orders

below.
the

As

they

wind,

smoke

dense
could

tack, and
"Put
wind

your

the

her

Revenge^

Job,

at

down

the

the

on

the
ther
furboard
star-

the shore.

and

bring

time

same

on

rigging still

about

volley,going

hard

forward

away

making straightfor

helm

I" roared

the

see

by

damaged

swept

was

her

jumping

to

the

toward

the mainsheet.
The
as

she

of her

schooner

swung

caught

the wind

enemy

before

to

starboard, heeling sharply

abeam,
full

and

minute

254

was

had

in hot

passed.

pursuit

BLACK

THE

pirate flag flying at her peak.

made
Job
megaphone of his
a
voice

in

and

the

hands

and

raised

his

"Will

you

surrender

hail.

haul

peacefully,and

boomed.

he

"Ahoy, Revenge!"
There

breeze,

the

in

rigging flapping

broken

and

BUCCANEER

silence for

was

and

cracked

full

flag'?"
Then

seconds.

ten

ket
mus-

mast
itself in the main-

imbedded

bullet

that

down

by Job's head.
"All

he said, without

right,boys,"

moving,

'em

"let

Ready, port battery'?Fire I" Jeremy and Bob,

clinging side by side to the hatch-combing, felt the
it I

have

them

planking quiver under

and

like

Only

of her

one

steep

beach

Captain

Job

the

ready
on

deck,

Tiger

waited

till he

head

her
with

to

was

saw

the

their

to

was

was

very

now

in very

the other

the

wind,

the order

given
256

he
or

when

now.

hands

water,

up,

ing
swarm-

crew,

ships.
amid-

but

Then,

cried.

and

close

longboat

strike.

HawkesI"
now,

the

shallow

craft

round-

went,

"All

hatchway.

places by

the boat, lads I Lively

Hardly

dunes

the

wound.

she

on

her," he ordered, and

ran

The

by

stood

But

wide.

the

below

board

to

and

stagger

reply, the

to

charges,
dis-

mighty
and

its death

able

was

guns

screaming high

shot

received

that has

animal

an

check

pirate schooner

the

saw

the series of

at

"Bring

"And

they'llget
the boat

Job

over

ashore!"
shot

into

the

water.

on

her

in the bows,

Ten

filled from

gunwale
with

teeth

Job, last

the

was

sailors, armed

word

to

boarding-pikes.
Hawkes,

to

the

into

jumped

and

nearest

boat

the

and

deck, spoke

and

down

waves

with

gunwale

to

places

those

but

any

hit the

in command,

remained

who

she

for

seamen

jumped

pistols,cutlasses

leave

to

by

unseen

after

seconds

Bob

and

thwarts, Jeremy

them.

of the

the scramble

During

crouched

the

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

stern

sheets.

give

"Now,
The

eight

the boat
the

stout

though they
than

picked

able

been

had
with
upper

end.

longboat
there

was

that

he

to

no

secure

staff and

They peered

was

close

no

sign of

to

deck

something

over

the

the

but

knife-like

piratesalong
ashore?"

ping
grip-

was

he

which

short

blade

pike
at

in silence.

the bows

Revenge's

more

passing.Jeremy

in

weapon

scared,

was

preciouspistol.Bob

pile on

''Suppose they've got

see

waited.

and

weapons

and

water

in the bows

Up

arrow.

shivering with

the

ashen

heavy

the

murderous-looking hanger,

from

up

an

admitted

his

Besides

the cold.

through

their

both

were

the hilt of
had

like

have

would

one

lashed

oars

clutched

boys

Neither

roared.

shoreward

sped

two

I" he

way

quarter
her

asked

now,

the
The

but

rail.
Bob.

'T don't

"

"Down

It

was

heads

Job's

all I"

voice, and

the

257

boys together with

many

BLACK

THE

of

the

ducked

seamen

did

they

there

so

of the
and

thwart.
him

boat.

Another

of

shipped

guinea

reaching

they

raised

dozen

three

and
had

the

behind
that

they

force.

checked.

fired

cheering

rose

of the

sloop

succeeded

in demoralizing

the

of

In another
the

and

oars

But

been

yards. Seeing the

bulwarks

had

more

gunwale

speed
instant

the

the

in

boat

rowers

scraped along

the

of the schooner.

free-board
"A

the

from

as

fusillade, the buccaneers

been

their

killed

been

barely

attacking

hardly

wale
gun-

behind

cry

backward

boys, and

by

the

from

pirate volley, which

belief

the evident

to

the

their

the

the

had

yelling from

and

toppled

followed

gasping

As

words.

he died.

distance

effect of

had

sailor

arms

by
a

heard

Jeremy

seaman

wounded

musketry,

splinters flew

fell between

He

of

crash

young

in their

from

came

the

instinctivelyat

shots, and

intermittent

him

BUCCANEER

to

the

with

up

first

up!"

man

cried

powerful fingersfor

Job, himself
which

grip by

climb.
There

Revenge
than

were

in her stranded

faced

Jeremy

started

"Here's

position lay

and

much

the

as

ward
higher for-

aft, the boys, standing in the bows, found

themselves

callingto

rope-ends hanging,

no

by smooth

planking

back

the thwarts, but

him

and

place

over

too

high

to

scale.

heard

Bob

turned.
to

board

I" the

258

Delaware

boy

was

BLACK

THE

saying, and
stood

pointed

hole, with

him.

It

the attack

would

were

busy

the rail.
the

is their

"This

hatch

The

tugged

where

two,

gasped

on

the

hear, above

in

the

of

of

bedlam

undertone

of

and

was

ket
mus-

along I"

it

Bob, trying
Both

fastened.

back

sliding it

buccaneers,

the

terrific.

now

outcry,

Job's

boys
inch

an

voice,
but

or

for

steel

and

the

no

one

Bob, strainingdesperately at
259

had

the

of

to

it

constant

thud

oath

part

most

with

time

sharply

snarling

firearms, apparently, had

in the melee

could

They

occasional

an

unintelligibleshouts

ringing

of

feet. Most

deck

general

command

one

in

here's

to, but

not

was

clamation.
ex-

an

it stuck.

hubbub

The

it

succeeded

it and

at

said. "And

drawn

till

where

uttered

bulkhead,

been

had

cover

hear

could

undeterred,

on,

I I'll take

primed

beneath, decided

it from

the

they felt

fo'c's'le ladder,

gun-rack," he

and

all loaded

the

of

foot

forward

buccaneers

the

fightthat they

moved

They

feeling along

Jeremy

all

apparently

in the fierce

above

reached

from

But

come.

raging along
they

two

the

in the

dark

was

tiptoe,waiting breathlesslyfor

the

and

boat.
long-

through

their way

sure

was

straddled

after

close

of the

boys made

'tween-decks

or

had

which

gunport

the bow

above

and

Bob

twinkling
Jeremy

the forward

toward

just beyond

open

In

on

BUCCANEER

shifting

charged,
dis-

been
reload.

the hatch-cover,

spied

BLACK

THE

BUCCANEER

with

opening, pried
squeaked
through

They gasped

backs

the

to

hatch

boys squirmed

had

them

they

as

confidently expected

such

But

wall.

their eyes

met

and

piratesalready beaten,

the

find

the

sightwhich

the

at

of

Both

emerged.

and

row
nar-

the deck.

to

on

strength. The

his

all

reluctantly

open

the

thrusting it through

Jeremy's pike-shaft,and

their

fightingwith
far

was

to

from

being

from

the

the

case.

amidships lay

the deck

On

off,time

who

unwounded

were

about

the

"They

figuresof

Job

can't

up

the side I Here,

climb

deck

across

the

below

in the

toward

the

and

red

longboat.

wicked

lips,and

Then

the

for

two

"The
that

the

boys

fightingback
of

half

he

moment

260

had

was

dashed
the

to

and

men

ran

Job

now.

to

back, parrying

score

yellow teeth

lighteyes

can't

had

down

was

of

dogs

I" It

turned

Jeremy

blows

of

men

rope

rope's end

man

all

but

pack

pirate

supporters.

Bob.

gleam

flash of

like

beating

fallen

had

bay

at

fierce

dozen

bring

me

Then

were

blades
saw

cried

Another

waist.

Jeremy

his

thrown

and

enemy.

assault.

I"

help

singlecomrade

with

and

only before

of seconds

matter

of

Tiger,

stood

mightily, and

raging

were

get

others

of buccaneers

number

men

two

time, the attacks

after

hanger-men.

and

cutlasses

them, swinging

above

Job

while

sorely wounded,

two

of

the

between

in the thick of the

a

glimpse

of

the

BLACK

THE

whole
with
as

of

face

BUCCANEER

Pharaoh

scarred

Daggs,

frightfulpassion

wolf's

cruel

"

the broken

nose

henchman.

The

wounded

himself

defending

the

reached
his

back

own

But

now

half

of

rush

be

could

more

The
of

some

the
at

him

huge

mate

step
the

neared

the deck.

Job's

back.

in for

of his musket.

charge

of

powder

He

when
must

in the

gun,

261

face

with

Tiger,

while

to

in

saw

dirk

lifted

cluding
others, in-

Job,

on

ting
cut-

fainted

sailor had

the saddle-colored
come

the

been

his sash

as

knife

and

pulled

the

an

extra

for its recoil

hind
be-

from

up

from

Jeremy
have

but

attack,

three

closed

wounded

had

buccaneers,

the

the

and

long

on.

the

meet

side, then

blow,
There

to

Jeremy

they

the rail.

over

mate,

one

drawing

mast,

stepping

mulatto

swiftly to

him

against it,

face

from

men

savagely. The

slipped to

his burden

the

and

themselves

stayed. Daggs

them

up,
arm

When

battled

and

pirates broke

of

knot

last

left

his comrade

swarming

seen

with

while.

the

resounded,

dozen

with

his

backed

and

arm

their heads, found

turning

man

kept his guard

hooked

Job

the wood,

to

cheer

still

leaned

Job

mast,

even

slashing fiercely around

right

tireless

his

with

body

mainmast,

the

toward

and

lad's

the poor

about

the

of the

and

staggered,leaning his

seaman

feebly.

"

the ribs of Job's

between

plunged

weight against his captain,but

set

face

looked, the dripping sword-blade

he

distorted

and

he
was

ger
trig-

heavy

threw

the

BLACK

THE

flat

boy
he
a

saw

the

and

way,

with

head

air.

in the

hanger

that

Tiger

and

turned

in

in and

ran

deck

though

aboard,

the

was

full

of

the

pirateswere

and

and

more,

effect.

to

of

mass

by

however,

to

The

caught
pirate
for

pike

onds
sec-

shaft

weaponless.
the

from

man

his

on

ishing
flank, fin-

the

cutlass, and

stream

of blood

that

that

his

his face
from

262

which

foot

lad

once

taken

the

under
tall

pling
tram-

figure still

only

second,

fighting wearily
was

he armed

his shot had

Job's

the

for

ous.
seri-

Captain's plight was

was

ran

resistance.

about

cast

disappeared
and

fierce

climbed

mainmast

that

It took

Yankee

broken

up

for

groups,

had

crew

cutlass, with

had

mast.

realize

big

left

was

his encounter,

fightingmen,

the

his

for his life,

struggling

discovered

joy

mulatto

The

towered

his

of

toward

turned

He

himself.

past

The

so.

despair, a

putting

found

soon

he

longboat's

Jeremy, panting from

weapon

of

order.
now

score

out

and

up

till the

the buccaneer

caught

in short

him
The

the blows,
and

ducked

he

As

by

cut

boy fought

another,

after

of

his cutlass, and

the

like hours

flash

rolled

he did

as

with

him

at

stroke

one

broken

the deck

from

seemed

parrying

scrambled

He

the

caught

and

for the blade

soon,

swish.

nasty

hacking

followed,

him

feet

regain his

Desperately Jeremy

too

none

boarding-pike

was

above

close

man

he could

before

the deck, and

on

BUCCANEER

gray

beneath

wound

above

with
the

red

his eye.

CHAPTER

IT

head

his

on

stood

bo's'n,

There

beside

his

in

breathin'

much

the

yet,"

"It

other
was

deck's

not

do

to

They
after
Stede

and

an

when

his

to

ear

side.
he

length

at

with

in the

sober

below

compartment,

the

in him,

cuts

stretcher,

ferent
dif-

let's get

an'

body

of

their

boat.

Bob

and

of

have

spilled

there's

look

forced

which

had

of

its

reeked

lees

of

of

at

old

much

housed

filth, stale
the

now

of

door

the

the

great
most
al-

and

immaculate

place

we

cabin."

the

open

liquor. In

265

the

"This

Bob.

nothing

once

the

appearance,

It

turned

Jeremy

said

victory,"

and

Instead

had

friend

big

faces.

sort

Let's

Bonnet.

of

score

sight, and

pretty

went

desolation.

half

lads, rig

costly

help.

verdict, "breathin', but

his

was

unconscious

scholarly
of

sea-fights,

ship."

placed gently

each

can

the

to

When

to

face

ors
sail-

off.

many

with

man's

There's

more.

back

been

hats
of

veteran

Job's

bleeding

weary,

their

Captain

the

places. Here,
him

the

later, held

up.

"He's
not

minutes

while

grizzled

hope

was

looked

knees,

five

silently by with

kneeling

was

who,

Jeremy

WAS

The

XXXVI

had

an

air

tobacco-smoke,
clutter

on

the

cabin

table

lay

"Well,"

said

bags,

"here's

the

the

carrying

box

The
with

woods.

the

What

me.

little chest

is the

tackled

do

you

came

There

place. They
the

as

pattern
were

as

oriental

blood,
seized
Bob

"It's

threw

could

have

come

the

ransom,

of
one

found

the
of

only

Solomon
at

I" he

from

perhaps,
wife

favorite

light

of

Such
the
of

coffers

prince

as

square

they

stones

of
of

an

the

Maharajah,

some

Brig's daredevil

in

and

in

cut

great

even

matched

each

fashion.

and

cover

astonishment.

green

thumb,

it

and

lay twelve

perfectly

oldtime

breath

fortune

the

open

clear

man's

the

"

staple

the

on

soft buckskin

were

after

or

of

end

king
in

He

with

gleaming

dark

pull

lining of

the

on

emeralds,

hard

back, gasping with

stood

boys

two

in his hand.

away

large

weak.

and

it rusty

found

and

padlock

small

the

tried

Jeremy

studded

heavily

and

leather-covered

was

nails.

that

pirate

ously.
it curi-

is in it?"

suppose

the

that

picked

had

He

through

ran

we

of

one

examining

was

cried, "this

he

night

it when

dropped

and

table

the

of

I"

occupied.

was

box.

small

weight

Brig's gold

of

rest

and

the

felt

he

as

the

here. Bob,"

"See
was

Bob,

from

box

the

sacks

bulging

two

Jeremy's attention

But
up

BUCCANEER

BLACK

THE

raids.

last.
cried.
266

"They're

worth

more

than

THE

all

BUCCANEER

gold together I

the

And

they're

by right of discovery

yours

and

you

buy

when

we're
sacks

sun

half-dazed

was

of

like

h2dian

the
and

his

he

TU

who

can

Queen^

be partners
of

one

up

the

to

rich"

it! You

picked

way

Jeremy,

deck,

carried

the

clambered

in the

the

up

rest,

pirate sloop.

This

lowed
fol-

the

rest

Tiger's

boat

they dug

pirates and

honest

to

where

the

the white

and

rand
er-

beach,

picks

wind

and

moaned

gulls wheeled

and

grave

the

laid

dead

try
the win-

together under

men

its

the

with

dunes

long

them

with

There,

time

passed long, limp

crew

desolate

thickets

beach-plum

screamed,

the

rail, rowed

in their hands.

shovels

setting when

Silently the

one.

across

to

the

trip to

sad

bundles

close

was

its last

made

and

I Think

You

made

You're

"

treasure.

The

and

and

Jeremy

yours,

over.

I" Jubilant,

up

gold

the

by
of the

grown

of

big ships

merchant.

great

twice

Tom

and

fleet of

become

the

father

your

whole

and

to

BLACK

sky.
The

boat

the mainsail

and

had

run

for

away

the

returned

her

the

the

every

gathering

air above

hang

in

flame

wriggled

up

northward

caused

crosstrees

into

been

its way

the

the schooner

and

beat,
to

man

dark.

aboard.

hoisted

was

his gaze

turn

faint

glow

267

piece

of

from
ward
shore-

seemed

little

sagging

as

ing
fill-

was

single shout

pirate sloop.

along

Just

to

snaky
cord-

BLACK

THE

licked

age,

in

the

at

schooner

whole

of

edges
of

burst

BUCCANEER

fire. A

red

waterline

Jeremy, watching, fascinated,

rail, thought of the
black

the

sky

as

the

same

devoured
a

shower

hulk.
time

burning

before

it

gleam

is the end
the

Only

the

low-lying
for

some

sea.

gone.

to

the many
do

by Phineas

Clarke

together, after
of

Curtis

Swan

the

Job

Bob

grew

for
up

had

things
to

me

and

to

268

be

to

come

is

geon
sur-

when

sons;

Jeremy

there

was

the best

rejoined their

Swans

all these

in this book

Jeremy

how

Whipple,

pleasant things that

"

of

town;

colonies; of the glorious reunion

and

Philadelphia
enough

story.

Boston

to

health

in all the
Swan

of my

voyage

back

nursed

to

was

followed.

the dark

flame
fell in

and

visible, astern,

by

was

great

the

as

of

the

good ship.
The

toppled

that

fate

out

edges

was

Tiger

""""""

This

Amos

of it

swallowed

was

Revenge

the

along

head.
mast-

lit up

now.

faded

mainmast

sparks. The

"

Of

schooner

the

seen

had

many

away,

of

faint

first

it. Her

to

foremast

The

The

out

her fabric. The

light flickered

feeble

meted

rapidly drawing

the

had

illumined

now

she had

were

of

glare

he

to

the

from

burning brig that

pirate sloop
that

They

the

of

hull, and

when

night

ward
out-

later, and

moment

from

ablaze,

was

flared

sail, and

torn

not

found
live

of the great

in

space

tell.
one

of

Amer-

BLACK

THE

icans

of his

day

And

although

never

lost the

well

take

that

Jeremy

rich

he

was

grandson,
Job

best

to

the wild

tell

was

days

best

to

about
and

KOOM

269

he

of seventy,

man

Job

named

tell him

CIRCULATION

CHILDREN'S

old
was

Buccaneer.

CENTRAL

independent.

ways.

who

loved

and

highly honored,

and

hale

his knee, and

young

loved

Black

his

on

breeches, and
the

became

when

Swan,

story

he

wise

strong,

man

simplicity of his

Sometimes
he would

: a

BUCCANEER

stories.

hear
a

and

Cant-

But

the

that

old

boy in deerskin

nights he

saw

aboard