Before long they both dared and did several gallant actions. Just as they had sighted the land they fell in with three piratical feluccas, either one of which was a match for the Active.
One, after a desperate resistance, was captured, another was sunk, and the third, while the British crew were securing their first prize, and endeavouring to save the drowning men, effected her escape. She was, however, shortly afterwards taken, and on the return of the Active to Port Royal with her prizes, the thanks of the merchants of Jamaica were offered to Lieutenant Rayner for the service he had rendered to commerce.
The admiral the next day sent for Rayner, and received him with more cordiality than is generally awarded to junior officers. Having listened to his report, and commended him for his gallantry.
“How soon will you be ready to sail again?” he asked.
“Directly our damages have been repaired, and they won’t take long, sir,” was the answer.
“That is right. I have received information that a desperate fellow in command of a craft somewhat larger than the Active has been pillaging vessels of all nations, and it will be a feather in your cap if you take her.”
“I’ll do my best, sir,” answered Rayner.
In two days the Active was again at sea. Within a fortnight, after a long chase, she had fought and driven on shore a large schooner, got her off again, and recaptured two of her prizes, returning in triumph with all three to Jamaica.
He and Oliver were highly complimented on their success. The admiral, who was still in the harbour, invited them to dine on board the flagship.
“Mr Horrocks has just obtained his promotion, and you are thus, Mr Rayner, first lieutenant of the Lily; and, Mr Crofton, I intend to give you an acting order as second lieutenant, and I hope that before long you will be confirmed in your rank.”