During the third week in December, I had frequent visits from Cambiaso and Garcia, during which they questioned me very closely in regard to my knowledge of navigation, sometimes turning to the English mate, and comparing his answer with mine. They asked what I knew of the navigation of the Straits; and would often seem to be cross-examining me with regard to the lay of the shore, and the appearance of the headlands.
I took advantage of their visits, to beg for more indulgence to my crew, who were still shut up in the crowded place where they had first been put, and deprived of almost the necessaries of existence; but it was evident, from Cambiaso’s answers, that he had not yet determined what course to take with regard to us.
About the 20th of the month, I received permission from Cambiaso to go on board my vessel, and remain there; and on the same day my crew were released from their prison, and allowed to run at large in the yard, and cook for themselves. After my long confinement in the barracks, under the constant supervision of the guard, never allowed to eat or sleep without being watched, the Florida seemed like home to me, and the face of my steward like that of an old friend. He had been kept on board to cook for the men who were living in the Florida, at the head of whom was an officer by the name of Tapia, (the one who brought my first and second letters to me,) and his wife. My steward had often asked for me while I was on shore, and Tapia would sometimes tease him, by telling him that I was shot or hung, that he would never see me again, and so forth; at which he would cry like a child; and when he saw me come on board, he danced and skipped around me with a true negro-like expression of delight.
I asked him if he wanted to stay in that country with those rebels and pirates. “No, massa; no, massa Captain,” he replied, “I want to be with you; I feel safe while you are by me.”
Comparative comfort--The American ensign--Christmas day--My visit to the barracks--The Indian boys--Cambiaso’s rage--Execution of the Indian woman--The cattle slaughtered--Escape of the Indians--Fears of the rebels--Preparations for leaving--The Florida re-christened--Interview with Cambiaso--The embarking of the colonists--Prisoners sent to the Florida.