They had met their master, and knew it.
Tempest knew that the prisoners were not to be trusted while any of them were armed.
He, however, did not show his distrust, but walked about, giving orders for the removal of all on board the Guerriere, together with their effects.
A drunken officer, a mere petty official, crept up behind the young privateer, pistol in hand.
Tempest suddenly turned, and with a sweep of his sword cut the pistol from the man's hand.
But he had struck deeper than he knew at that moment, for with the pistol went the fellow's hand as well.
The sword cut had severed his wrist.
There was no more opposition, and the last man was in the boat.
Only Tempest remained on board the once proud war vessel.