"No, no. Well, we are safe."
And he spoke rightly.
The Lively Bee was in no danger. With her fine lines and great speed of canvas, she could take advantage of every change of the wind, and pursue it to the uttermost.
The Lively Bee would fly with a puff of wind, while the big ships would scarcely move.
Before noon the sharp eyes of the first officer had made out the Frolic and the Poietiers, both heavily manned frigates.
"It is no good tackling them," said the captain.
"No, but they may attack us."
"We will keep out of range."
"They are getting ready to lower the boats, and will board us."
"That is what I was afraid of," answered Captain Vernon.