to ransom the vessel; and to this, after a consultation with
Krantz, Philip gave his assent. The two vessels then made sail, and
steered on for the island, then about four leagues distant. Although
Philip had not wished to retain the vessel, yet, as they stood in
together, her superior speed became so manifest, that he almost repented
that he had agreed to ransom her.

At noon, the Dort was anchored in the roads, out of gunshot, and a
portion of the passengers allowed to go on shore and make arrangements
for the ransom of the remainder, while the prize was hauled alongside,
and her cargo hoisted into the ship. Towards evening, three large boats
with livestock and vegetables, and the sum agreed upon for the ransom of
the xebeque, came alongside; and as soon as one of the boats was
cleared, the prisoners were permitted to go on shore in it, with the
exception of the Spanish pilot, who, at the suggestion of Krantz, was
retained, with a promise of being released directly the Dort was clear
of the Spanish seas. A negro slave was also, at his own request,
allowed to remain on board, much to the annoyance of the two passengers
before mentioned, who claimed the man as their property, and insisted
that it was an infraction of the agreement which had been entered into.
"You prove my right by your own words," replied Philip; "I agreed to
deliver up all the passengers, but no _property_; the slave will remain
on board."

Finding their endeavours ineffectual, the Spaniards took a haughty
leave. The Dort remained at anchor that night to examine her rigging,
and the next morning they discovered that the xebeque had disappeared,
having sailed unperceived by them during the night.

As soon as the anchor was up and sail made on the ship, Philip went down
to his cabin with Krantz, to consult as to their best course. They were
followed by the negro slave, who, shutting the door and looking
watchfully round, said that he wished to speak with them. His
information was most important, but given rather too late. The vessel
which had been ransomed, was a government advice-boat, the fastest
sailer the Spaniards possessed. The pretended two passengers were
officers of the Spanish navy, and the others were the crew of the
vessel. She had been sent down to collect the bullion and take it to
Lima, and at the same time to watch for the arrival of the Dutch fleet,
intelligence of whose sailing had been some time before received
overland.