ade himself
as comfortable as he could, in his cramped position, and went off to
sleep.

When he woke in the morning, the light was streaming down the hatch,
which was only closed in rough weather, as it was necessary frequently
to go down into it for water and stores. Francis had brought the fish
with him as a means of subsistence during the voyage, in case he should
be unable to obtain provisions, but for this there was no occasion, as
there was an abundance of fruit hanging from the beams, while piles of
bread were stowed in a partition at one end of the hold. During the
day, however, he did not venture to move, and was heartily glad when it
again became dark, and he could venture to get out and stretch himself.
He appropriated a loaf and some bunches of grapes, took a long drink
from a pail placed under the tap of a water butt, and made his way back
to his corner. After a hearty meal he went out again for another drink,
and then turned in to sleep.

So passed six days. By the rush of water against the outside planks, he
could always judge whether the vessel was making brisk way or whether
she was lying becalmed. Once or twice, after nightfall, he ventured up
on deck, feeling certain that in the darkness there was no fear of his
being detected. From conversation he overheard on the seventh evening,
he learned that Corfu had been sighted that day. For some hours the
vessel's sails had been lowered, and she had remained motionless; but
she was now again making for the land, and in the course of another two
hours a landing was to be made.

The boats had all been got in readiness, and the men were to muster
fully armed. Although, as they understood, the carrying off of two
girls was their special object, it was intended that they should gather
as much plunder as could be obtained. The island was rich, for many
wealthy Venetians had residences there. Therefore, with the exception
of a few men left on board to take care of the galley, the whole were
to land. A picked boat's crew were to accompany the captain, who was
now completely convalescent. The rest were to divide in bands and
scatter over the country, pillaging as they went, and setting fire to
the houses. It was considered that such consternation would be caused
that nothing like resistance could be offered for some time, and by
daybreak all hands were to gather at the landing place.

How far this spot was from the town, Francis had no means of learning.
There