Two large Spanish vessels were lying there.

They were apparently on the point of sailing, for the sails were already dropped.
An exclamation of surprise broke from all on the deck of the Swan, and the men ran to the braces and sheets, in order to trim the sails.
"Steady, men!" Captain Reuben shouted.

"Touch not sheet or tack.

We must sail past as if bent on our own business.

If we change our course, now, they will suspect that something is wrong.
"Pengarvan, do you get out the Spanish flag from the locker, and run it up to the peak." This was done, though it was easy to see, by the looks the crew cast towards the strange craft, that they would gladly go in and fight them.
"Another time, lads," Captain Reuben said cheerfully, as he saw their mood.