become of them we were unable to ascertain.

In vain we sailed from port to port. At last we heard that they had
taken shelter in the harbour of Toulon. On receiving this information
we immediately steered for that port. On arriving we found that the
corsairs had been honourably received by the French admiral, and that
assistance had been given to them to dispose of their plunder.

On this Admiral Blake sent word that he considered the French had been
guilty of a hostile act, and that unless the corsairs were driven from
the harbour, and the plunder restored to its lawful owners, he should
feel justified in making reprisals on the commerce of France.

No answer was given to this message, but after a short time it was
discovered that the two princes had fled, though in what direction we
were, as before, unable to ascertain.

Leaving Admiral Penn to search for them, we at length steered for
England. Just as we were passing through the Straits, a large ship was
seen which approached us without any apparent hesitation, showing French
colours. Getting nearer, she hove to, while a boat being lowered her
captain came on board. He was received with the usual courtesy by the
admiral in his cabin.

The Frenchman being seated, the admiral informed him that he must
consider himself a prisoner, and requested him to deliver up his sword.

"No, monsieur," answered the Frenchman; "not while I have strength to
use it," and he placed his hand on the hilt.

"I confess, brave sir, that you have been unfairly beguiled on board,
and that you were ignorant that I had thrown down the gauntlet to your
admiral at Toulon. If you desire it, you may go on board your ship and
try to escape if you have the power," said the admiral.

"I accept your generous offer," answered the Frenchman with a bow, and
he made his way on deck. We attended him with due honour down the side,
when he returned to his ship.

As soon as he had gone the drum beat to quarters, but we waited before
firing, to allow him to prepare his own vessel for the encounter.

Due time having passed, we fired a shot across his bows, which he
returned, aiming at the _Tiger_.

The fight now commenced in earnest. The Frenchmen fought bravely,
endeavouring to knock away our spars so as to make their escape. But
their gunnery was not equal to that of our men. So severely did we
pound them, that after holding out two hours they hauled down their
flag.

The boats were im