his
good intentions. A cordiality, even a kind of feeling which never
existed before, was created between them; but of Francisco's mother, and
the former events of his own life, the pirate never spoke. Francisco
more than once put questions on the subject; the answer was,--"You shall
know some of these days, Francisco, but not yet; you would hate me too
much!"

The _Avenger_ was now clear of the English isles, and with light winds
running down the shores of Porto Rico. In the evening of the day on
which they had made the land, the schooner was becalmed about three
miles from the shore, and the new first mate proposed that he should
land in the boat and obtain a further supply of water from a fall which
they had discovered with the glasses. As this was necessary, Cain gave
his consent, and the boat quitted the vessel full of breakers.

Now it happened that the _Avenger_ lay becalmed abreast of the
country-seat of Don d'Alfarez, the governor of the island. Clara had
seen the schooner; and, as usual, had thrown out the white curtain as a
signal of recognition; for there was no perceptible difference, even to
a sailor, at that distance, between the _Avenger_ and the _Enterprise_.
She had hastened down to the beach, and hurried into the cave, awaiting
the arrival of Edward Templemore. The pirate-boat landed at the very
spot of rendezvous, and the mate leaped out of the boat. Clara flew to
receive her Edward, and was instantly seized by the mate, before she
discovered her mistake.

"Holy Virgin! who and what are you?" cried she, struggling to disengage
herself.

"One who is very fond of a pretty girl!" replied the pirate, still
detaining her.

"Unhand me, wretch!" cried Clara. "Are you aware whom you are
addressing?"

"Not I! nor do I care," replied the pirate.

"You will perhaps, sir, when you learn that I am the daughter of the
governor!" exclaimed Clara, pushing him away.

"Yes! by heavens! you are right, pretty lady, I do care; for a
governor's daughter will fetch a good ransom at all events. So come, my
lads, a little help here; for she is as strong as a young mule. Never
mind the water, throw the beakers into the boat again: we have a prize
worth taking!"

Clara screamed; but she was gagged with a handkerchief and lifted into
the boat, which immediately rowed back to the schooner.

When the mate came on board and reported his capture the pirates were
delighted at the prospect of addition to their