The pirates, disdaining such a foe, would row alongside.

Once there, we might fasten one or both to our side with grapnels, and then, methinks, that English bill and bow will render us more than a match for Moorish pirates, and one of these craft can scarcely carry more men than we have.

I should propose to take one of them by force, and drive the pirates overboard; take possession of, if possible, or beat off, her consort; and then take the most valuable stores from the ship, and make our way as best we can to the north." "Well thought of!" exclaimed the earl, cordially.

"You have indeed imagined a plan which promises well.

What think you, captain ?" "I think, my lord," the Genoese said, "that the plan is an excellent one, and promises every success.