A sneering laugh was the only rejoinder. It was followed, however, by a scattering fire.
This was the last straw with the chief.
"Let 'em have it, boys!" he shouted.
In obedience to his command the posse opened fire on the dark form of the schooner. It is doubtful, however, if they did much damage, as the night was too black to make out more than her outline.
But the men on board now had the sails up. The pyramids of canvas loomed up like spires against the dark background of the night. The rushing of water under her forefoot as she began to move could be distinctly heard.
"By Thunder, we'll stop that craft, or know the reason why," roared the chief.
At that same instant there came a shout from the schooner's bow.
"Out of the road, or we'll run you down, you swabs!"
"Great Heavens!" cried Nat. "They've changed their course. Out of the way, quick, or they'll sink us!"
But before any one in the boat had recovered his wits at this sudden and dangerous turn of events, the great form of the schooner loomed above them like some menacing tower.