Captain Porter now decided to go to some islands far out in the Pacific, where he could refit the ship.
As the Essex approached one of these islands, she was met by a canoe filled with natives. The bodies of these people were tattooed, and they were gayly ornamented with feathers. They invited the sailors on shore, and promised to give them fruit and provisions.
During the six weeks that were occupied in refitting the ship, the sailors rested on the island. David and the other boys of the crew were given lessons by the ship's chaplain each day, and when school hours were over, they were allowed to visit the islanders.
The young natives taught the American boys many things. They showed them how to walk on stilts, and how to use a spear skillfully and with ease. Best of all, they taught them how to swim. The people of this island could swim as easily as they could walk. Even the babies could float in the water like ducks.
The Essex left this island in December, 1813, and sailed for Valparaiso.
III.—The Loss of the Essex.
One day in the following February, two English war vessels appeared in the harbor of Valparaiso. The Essex was lying quietly at anchor, and many of her crew were on shore.
The British vessels bore down upon the Essex in a very hostile manner. Captain Porter was afraid they would attack him. They had no right to do this, for Chili was not at war with either England or America.
One of these British vessels was a frigate called the Phoebe. The other was a sloop named the Cherub. The Phoebe approached the Essex until she was within fifteen feet of her side.
Captain Porter, standing on the deck, hailed, saying: "If you touch a single yardarm, I shall board you instantly!" The Phoebe passed by with no reply.