He is said to have met Indian ships at this time without molesting them, which was afterwards cited to show that his intentions were then honest.

It is more likely that he was only doubtful as to his own power, being unacquainted with the weakness of Asiatics, and reserving himself for the rich prey offered by the Mocha fleet.
Cruising northwards, he landed at Mabber[1] on the Somali coast, and took some corn from the natives by force--his first bit of filibustering.

Then making for Perim, he anchored to await the Mocha fleet.

Three times he sent a boat to look into Mocha harbour, and bring notice when the Indian ships were ready to sail.

As the fleet in scattered array emerged from the straits, he singled out a large vessel and began firing at it.