The sight of this vessel, and a knowledge of her character, caused a sensation throughout the schooner.

Doubts were very naturally entertained in regard to the treatment the passengers would receive at the hands of their much-dreaded enemy.

They were Frenchmen, and all the property on board was French property; and notwithstanding they sailed under Spanish colors, it was predicted by some, who entertained exaggerated notions of the rapacity of Englishmen and their hatred of the French, that the flag of Spain would not serve as a protection; but that their little property would be seized upon, and themselves detained and confined as prisoners or war.

Others, however, cherished a different opinion, and had confidence in that magnanimity which has always been claimed by the English as one of their national attributes.
It was an anxious moment; and a general council of war was held among the passengers on the deck of the schooner, in which, as at a conclave of parrots, few seemed to listen while every one was eager to speak.
The consultation, however, produced no result.

Indeed, nothing could be done, excepting to wait, and bow submissively to the decrees of the conqueror.
My friend and companion, Strictland, was really in greater jeopardy than either of the Frenchmen.