Scarcely had the oars touched the water, than a bustle was perceived on board the piratical ships.

Oars were put out, and in two or three minutes the pirates were under way, advancing at a rapid pace towards the Bonito.
The crew made no reply to the shouts and yells of the pirates, but, in accordance with the orders of the captain, remained in a stooping position, so that the figure of the captain, as he hauled up the flag with the lion of Venice to the masthead, was alone visible to the pirates.

As these approached volleys of arrows were shot at the Bonito, but not a shot replied until they were within fifty yards of the ship.
Then the captain gave the word.

The archers sprang to their feet, and from their eminence poured their arrows thick and fast on to the crowded decks of the pirates.

The captain gave the word to the rowers, and they relinquished their oars, which swung in by the side of the vessel.
A moment later two of the largest craft of the pirates dashed alongside.