A third which could take the remainder of the crew was made ready and the captain himself would be in charge of it.
It was launched successfully and the men dropped into it, one by one, but very fast.

Miguel swung down and into a place.

Robert advanced for the same purpose, but the captain, who was still poised on the rail of the ship, took notice of him for the first time.
"No! No, Peter!" he shouted, and even in the roar of the wind Robert observed the grim humor in his voice.

"You've been a good and faithful sailorman, and we leave you in charge of the ship! It's a great promotion and honor for you, Peter, but you deserve it! Handle her well because she's a good schooner and answers kindly to a kind hand! Now, farewell, Peter, and a long and happy voyage to you!" A leveled pistol enforced his command to stop, and the next moment he slid down a rope and into the boat.

A sailor cut the rope and they pulled quickly away, leaving Robert alone on the schooner.