Because the chief of police with his small force was helpless, the governor of the colony had issued orders to the captains to have all their men on board by sunset.
What! To be treated in such fashion! As the news spread among the schooners, they were emptied.

Everybody came ashore.

Men who had had no intention of coming ashore climbed into the boats.

The unfortunate governor's ukase had precipitated a general debauch for all hands.

It was hours after sunset, and the men wanted to see anybody try to put them on board.