we could get clear of the reefs. On this probability
our enemies calculated when they came in pursuit.

We had several reaches to pass through, which in no way increased our
distance from them through the air, and at last several of their shot
came whistling over our mast-heads. One went through our mainsail. We
could only stand still and look at our enemies, while our little vessel
made the best of her way from them.

"Hurrah, my lads! we are in the last reach," shouted our captain; "in
five minutes we shall be in clear water!"

The men shouted in return. Stronger blew the breeze, making the blue
sea sparkle and leap outside. On either hand it broke in masses of
foam, which leaped high into the air. On we flew! A narrow channel of
smooth water was before us. We glided through it. "Hurrah--hurrah! we
are free--we are free!"

I remember how fresh and pure I thought the sea air smelt. With what
freedom I breathed, after being shut up so long in a hot loft! The
breeze was easterly--a wind which would carry us on a bowline to
Jamaica. Every sail the little schooner could carry was set on her.
Our pursuers were not, however, yet willing to give up the chase. Once
clear, with the open sea before us, we distanced them fast, and the
sailing qualities of the little schooner being very fair, we had little
fear of being overtaken.

From what I saw of our present companions, I certainly should not have
liked to have associated much with them. While danger threatened, they
were quiet enough; but as the prospect of being overtaken decreased,
they grew more reckless and overbearing in their manner, and showed with
how little provocation they would be ready to break into a quarrel with
us, or among themselves. Thanks to Mr Gale's and Peter's example, we
were not likely to give them cause for that. As they had been prepared
for flight, they had not only put on a considerable quantity of
additional clothing, but each man carried round his waist a belt filled
with gold and silver coins, while his pockets were filled with jewels
and such silver ornaments and other articles of value which he could
manage to stow away in them. This much impeded their activity, though,
of course, it was but natural that they should wish to carry away with
them as much as they could of those spoils, to gain which they had
hazarded the loss both of life and soul!

"It will be as well, for their own sakes, that none of those fellows
fall