The vessel was a small one, designed either to sail or row.

Her crew consisted of twenty men, who rowed sixteen sweeps when the wind was light or unfavourable.

She was an open boat, except that she was decked at each end, a small cabin being formed aft for the captain, and any passengers there might be on board, while the crew stowed themselves in the little forecastle.
When the boat was halfway across, a sail was seen approaching, and the captain recognized her as one of Polani's vessels.
"In that case," Francis said, "we may as well direct our course so as to pass them within hailing distance.

When you approach them, hoist the Polani flag, and signal to them to lay to." This was done, and the two craft brought up within thirty yards of each other.

The captain appeared at the side of the vessel, and doffed his cap when he recognized Francis.
"Have you any news from the East ?" the latter asked.
"But little, signor.