of the beach toward the channel reported the approach of a
small boat looking like the pinnace.

The wind, fortunately for the enterprise, happened to be blowing fresh
out of the harbor and it was necessary for the pinnace to beat up toward
the entrance. She showed no lights, but, as she tacked in close to the
shore, between the watcher and the lights of the town, he observed her.
The boat was handled with consummate skill; she dropped anchor and
hauled down her sails noiselessly just abreast the pier which had been
appointed the rendezvous by the two men on the night before. As soon as
Hornigold learned of the approach he took a small boat, leaving Velsers
in command of the band on shore, and repaired with the other leaders to
the wharf on the other side. As the boat approached the wharf it was
hailed in a sharp whisper.

"Who comes?" cried the voice on shore.

"Hornigold!" answered the boatswain in a low tone, as the boat swept
alongside.

"So, 'tis you, is it?" cried Morgan, attended by the maroon as usual,
again putting his pistol back into his belt. "Seeing so many of you in
the skiff, I feared a trap until you gave the word."

"I've brought along Raveneau, the Brazilian, and young Teach," said the
boatswain.

"Welcome, my hearties, all!" said the Vice-Governor softly. "We're off
to the Spanish Main with a good ship, plenty of liquor beneath the
hatches, brave hearts to run her. There will be plenty of pickings meet
for any man. Are you with me?"

"Ay, ay, sir!"

"We are," answered one and another.

The place where they stood was lonely and deserted at that time of
night, but Hornigold suggested that they immediately repair to the other
side, there to perfect their further plans. Indeed, they had no plans
as yet. There was not head enough among them to concoct the details of
the scheme, although no better instruments for an expedition than the
chief and those assembled under him could be gathered together. They had
waited for Morgan.

"You speak well," answered the captain. "Are all preparations made?"

"All we could make without you, captain," replied Hornigold as the party
re-entered the boat.

"How many men have you gathered?"

"About five score."

"Boats?"

"Five."

"Will they carry all?"

"With a little crowding."

"Who leads each boat?"

"I, one, sir, with your permission; Raveneau here, another; the
Brazilian, the third; young Teach, a fourth, and Velsers----"

"Where is he?"