There was a smaller craft two or three miles further off, and two others were visible ten or twelve miles further away to the west.

Two of the privateers had evidently made their escape, and the third seemed to be leaving her pursuer behind, for the wind was exceedingly light.

Some miles nearer to the island than the frigate a schooner was visible.
She was heading for the two vessels that had gone toward the west, but as these were fully fifteen miles to windward her chance of overtaking them appeared to be slight.

Ralph waited an hour, and then proceeded at a leisurely pace toward the spot where he was to meet Jacques.

He was but five minutes at the spot agreed upon when he saw him coming through the trees.
"I heard nothing of the landing-parties," he said as the French sailor approached.
"The reason is not far to search for," he replied.