ily; and if fighting were to come into their way, so much
the better. With such a crew, they could well take their part
against any enemy they were likely to meet.

In the poop of the Swan there was a small saloon, extending across
the stern, and two cabins on either side of the passage leading to
it. These were occupied by the captain, the two mates, and Roger;
and they took their meals together in the saloon. In a cabin
underneath this, the three petty officers and twenty of the sailors
lived together, the main body of the crew occupying the raised
forecastle and the cabin underneath it. The galley was forward,
built up against the forecastle, and thus sheltered from heavy seas
which might sweep the waist of the vessel. Four small cannon were
mounted on the poop, two on the forecastle, the six larger guns
were in the waist--three on either side.

The breeze freshened as the Swan drew out from under the shelter of
the land, and by midday the shore had faded from the sight. The
crew had by this time settled down in their places, and sat in
groups on deck, some overhauling the contents of their sea bags,
looking over their clothes, and setting to, with needle and thread,
to make such repairs as were needed. Some of the new hands were
leaning over the side, wishing heartily that they were on shore
again. Those who had made voyages were talking to their companions
about the various ports at which they might touch, and the sights
they would behold.

All, save those suffering from the effects of the sea, were in high
good temper. As much fresh beef as was like to keep good till eaten
had been brought on board. The wind set in, the next morning,
freshly from the northeast; and with all sail set, the Swan ran
gaily before it.

"Would that this wind would blow, without a break, for another
month," Reuben Hawkshaw said, as he sat at dinner with the two
mates and Roger.

Standing and Pengarvan looked up quickly; but the latter, without a
question, again betook himself to feeding. Standing, however, laid
down his jackknife in astonishment.

"A month, Captain Hawkshaw? I should have thought four or five days
of this would give us ample westing, and that after that a westerly
breeze, somewhat from the north, would suit us best."

"Ay, ay, you would think so, Standing; but then you see, you know
not to within a good many points where our journey tendeth. Wait
till I have finished my dinner, for man cannot talk and eat
toge