He had never seen a crew more sinister in looks, not even on the slaver, and they were probably pirates.

They were a jumble of all nations, and that increased his suspicion.

So mixed a company, in a time of war, could be brought together only for evil purposes.
It was hard for him to tell who was the captain, but the leader who had first come ashore seemed to have the most authority, although nearly all did about as they pleased to the accompaniment of much talk and many oaths.

Still they worked well at filling the water casks, and Robert hoped they would soon be gone.

Near midnight, however, one of the boats came back, loaded with food, and kegs and bottles of spirits.