The course will be double the distance that it would be if we took a straight line, but except when we cross from island to island we shall not be exposed to their view, and may fall upon their ships before the crews have returned from their work of plunder." The knights fully agreed, and orders were given to the helmsman accordingly.
"We must not over fatigue the rowers," the commander said.

"We may have a long chase if they have started before we get round." He therefore gave orders to the slaves that, while they were to exert themselves to the utmost when crossing the open sea, they were to relax their efforts and to row within their strength while coasting along behind the islands.

On board, everything was made in readiness for a fight: the knights buckled on their armour, the cooks set cauldrons of pitch over the fire, the cannoneers loaded her eight guns.

It was an hour and a half after their start before they rounded the end of the last island.

It extended a little farther to the south than did that to which they were making, and as they rounded the point, eager looks were cast in search of the pirate ships.