"On the Pascha, sir," replied Hixom, "where they are slowly recovering of their calentures."
"And the name of the leader?"
"Jan Biddle, by his own account a skilful mariner and——"
"Ay, I have heard tell of him," interrupted Drake with a grim smile. "Master Hazelrig," he added, calling Dennis up, "I learn that the captain of your mutineers waits your judgement on my vessel."
He repeated what Hixom had told him.
"What is the name of the other Englishman, Master Hixom?" asked Dennis.
"Dick Rackstraw, methinks. The Frenchman's name is Michel Barren."
"Then what has become of our comrade Billy Hawk, I wonder? Biddle and his crew deserted from us with the treasure, when we came ashore in our boat. Billy Hawk went after them; I fear me there has been foul play."
"We will enquire into that matter when we gain our haven," said Drake, "and see what Master Biddle has to say for himself."
As soon as he reached the haven, Drake boarded the Pascha and called Biddle and his companions before him. He listened patiently to the man's wild tale, then sent a boat ashore to bring off Dennis and Turnpenny. Biddle's jaw dropped when he saw them come over the side. He attempted to bluster it out, but Drake cut him short.