Jon Hagadorn

However, this did not spoil the design, for he took his usual dose on board, and so got to bed before the hour appointed for the business.

The men also, who were not privy to the design, turned into their hammocks, leaving none upon deck but the conspirators, who indeed were the greatest part of the ship's crew.

At the time agreed on, the Duchess's long-boat appeared, which Avery, hailing in the usual manner, was answered by the men in her, "'Is your drunken bosun on board?'

which was the watchword agreed between them, and Avery replying in the affirmative, the boat came aboard with sixteen stout fellows, and joined the company.

When our gentry saw that all was clear, they secured the hatches, so went to work.

They did not slip the anchor, but weighed it leisurely, and so put to sea without any disorder or confusion."

though there were several ships then lying in the bay, and among them a Dutch frigate of forty guns, the captain of which was offered a great reward to go out after her.

But mine here, who perhaps would not have been willing to have been served, so himself could not be prevailed upon to give such usage to another, and so let Mr. Avery pursue his voyage, whither he had a mind to.

The captain, who by this time was awaked, either by the motion of the ship, or the noise of working the tackles, rung the bell,

Avery and two others went into the cabin.

The captain, half asleep, and then a kind of fright, asked, What was the matter?

Avery answered coolly, Nothing.

The captain replied, Something's the matter with the ship.

Does she drive?

What weather is it?

Thinking nothing less than it had been a storm, and that the ship was driven from her anchors.

No, no, answered Avery.

We're at sea, with a fair wind and good weather.

At sea, says the captain.

How can that be?