It steeled Philip's heart to what was coming to hear his rival whistling, 'Weel may the keel row,' so soon after parting with Sylvia.
The instant Kinraid turned the corner of the cliff, the ambush was upon him.

Four man-of-war's men sprang on him and strove to pinion him.
'In the King's name!' cried they, with rough, triumphant jeers.
Their boat was moored not a dozen yards above; they were sent by the tender of a frigate lying off Hartlepool for fresh water.

The tender was at anchor just beyond the jutting rocks in face.
They knew that fishermen were in the habit of going to and from their nets by the side of the creek; but such a prize as this active, strong, and evidently superior sailor, was what they had not hoped for, and their endeavours to secure him were in proportion to the value of the prize.
Although taken by surprise, and attacked by so many, Kinraid did not lose his wits.

He wrenched himself free, crying out loud: 'Avast, I'm a protected whaler.

I claim my protection.