“I regret to have to interfere with her, but I must, notwithstanding, make her my prize,” said the French Captain.
“If you make prize of her you must make prize of me,” answered Captain Benbow. “In common gratitude I cannot allow her to be captured while I have the means of defending her.”
“Notwithstanding, I must take her, for I am bound to make prizes of all Dutch vessels I fall in with,” answered the stranger.
“At present, my friend, I think we are more likely to make you and your boat’s crew prisoners,” said Captain Benbow. “See, you are under our guns, and I have only to give the word, and we can sink you in a moment; however, what do you say to a compromise? You give me your word that you will let this vessel escape, and I promise not to make prisoners of you and your boat’s crew, which I shall otherwise most certainly do.”
“Who are you?” asked the French Captain, standing up in his boat. He appeared to be in the prime of manhood, and exhibited a tall yet well-knit figure, and a fine bold handsome countenance.
“John Benbow, at your service,” answered the Captain. “May I ask your name?”
“I am Jean Bart, in the service of the King of France. I am pretty well known in these seas.”
“That indeed you are; a better seaman does not sail out of Dunkerque,” answered Benbow. “I have often heard of you and your doings, and from the number of prizes you have taken, I judge that you can afford to let one go without any loss to your reputation or purse. I tell you frankly that I am glad of having an opportunity of meeting you.”
Captain Bart looked pleased at the compliment paid him.
“Come, my friend,” said Captain Benbow, “agree to my proposal. Step on board; crack a bottle with Captain Coopman and me. Your men shall be entertained forward, and while the calm lasts you need be in no hurry to take your departure.”