“It is just the season for it in these seas,” replied the captain, “and yonder cloud over the land will make itself felt before long. The mercury is falling in the barometer rapidly.”
“Do you think our guns did much damage among the Malays?”
“No. It was a lucky shot that brought the villains’ foresail on deck; but even in this smooth sea it needs practice to make gunners, and my lads have had none.”
“But you think the pirate has left us?” It was Captain Hughes who put the question, anxiously.
“The fellow is hugging the wind instead of running down to us; and as he completely outsails us, it is a proof that he does not wish to close.”
“How do you account for the great confusion on board her? With so strong a crew, the foresail should have been hoisted directly.”
“The lubbers can fight like savages, but can’t sail their ship, that’s all,” said the captain, laughing.
Steps were heard coming down the hatchway, and the mate opened the cabin-door.
“The schooner is edging nearer us, Captain Weber,” he said, “and there is some long black object on her decks I can’t quite make out.”
“I’ll be on deck in a moment, Mr Lowe. Steward, give me a small glass of brandy to finish with.”