Then beat to quarters, and have the guns run in and double shotted, close the ports, and have the arms distributed; clear the forecastle too, except of two or three men, and bid everybody observe the strictest quiet, especially when we get in among the convoy," he continued rapidly.
"You can see them now from the deck, sir," said Lieutenant Simpson, handing the glass to the captain.
"Ay, so you can, but not well.

Mainroyal there! Can you make them out any better ?" "Yes, sir.

There's eighteen sail of them; one is a frigate and one looks like a sloop of war, sir; the rest is merchantmen, some of 'em armed." "Very good.

Have they seen us yet ?" "Don't appear to take no notice on us so far, sir." "Come down from aloft then, and get your grog and guinea, Jack; we won't need you up there any more; it is getting too dark to see anything there, anyway.

Beat to quarters, Mr.Seymour.