A midshipman, with two marines, invaded the forecastle. Two more went into the forward cabin. Then the lieutenant himself, with two guards, entered the main cabin.
Poole followed, expostulating, but it was of no use.
The vessel was thoroughly searched. Of course, the silver coins were discovered, and also the fact made clear that the vessel carried arms.
By Carriero’s orders every gun was seized and brought out on deck. Then the chest of treasure was also taken.
A boat was sent back to the Santa Maria, and the captain, Don Azata, was brought off. He was a fiery, bewhiskered little fellow.
Without waste of time a court of inquiry was inaugurated on the Meta’s deck. The decision, based upon the evidence, was quickly rendered.
The Meta had been captured in Cuban waters carrying an armament. Certainly this was suspicious and warranted her in being condemned as a filibustering craft.
In vain Poole protested.
The Spanish officers only smiled and discredited his statements. He kept getting madder and madder.
Finally he yelled: