He had then pleaded his case to the Duke of Albemarle and other distinguished gentlemen.

They were seemingly convinced, but withheld their answer till the following morning.
But William Phips, stubborn adventurer, destined to receive all sorts of honours in his time, has no intention of quitting London till he has his way; and this is his thought as he steps into Cheapside, having already made preparations upon the chance of success.

He has gone so far as to purchase a ship, called the Bridgwater Merchant from an alderman in London, though he has not a hundred guineas at his disposal.

As he stands debating, a hand touches his arm and a voice says in his ear: "You were within a mile of it with the Atgier Rose, two years ago." The great adventurer turns.

"The devil I was! And who are you ?" Satanic humour plays in the stranger's eyes as he answers: "I am Edward Bucklaw, pirate and keeper of the treasure-house in the La Planta River." "Blood of Judas," Phips says, "how dare you speak to me?
I'll have you in yon prison for an unhung rascal!" "Ah! you are a great man," is the unmoved reply.