In a moment the lookout upon the fore-castle of the _Jesus_ came running aft and reported that there were sounds ahead close inboard. We listened intently and in a moment heard the sound of oars grinding violently in their irons and the swash of a ship’s boat through the water. A voice shouted hoarsely across the water the words “France! France!” Our men stood crooked over the bulwarks, their weapons at their shoulders, trying to pierce the darkness, and soon we could just make out a gray shadow bearing directly upon us. There was great tension as she drew nearer and the gunners blew their torches, ready to blow her out of the water at the first sign the least suspicious. Slowly she drew alongside and we saw that it was a barge of the _Trinity_. An officer came hastily over the gangway. It was Bachasse, a sub-lieutenant.
Ribault went to him, and the soldiers crowded around.
“It is, your Excellency,” replied Bachasse shortly. He was stout and of a brusque manner--as brave a seaman as ever stood his watch.
“They came upon us late this afternoon, in five ships,” he said. “Captain Bourdelais wished me to report that we were not prepared for battle. Half of our crews are at the Fort.” He paused.
“Go on,” said Ribault, sternly. “Tell me all and omit nothing.”
“It was dark before they came upon us in earnest, our men were waiting at their guns. There was a trumpet from the Spanish flagship. Captain Bourdelais answered from the _Trinity_. We saw lanthorns and a figure upon the great vessel and we heard a strong voice say:
“‘From France,’ Captain Bourdelais replied at once.
“‘We bring soldiers and supplies for a fort which the King of France has built and for many others which he will soon build.’
“‘Are you Catholics or Lutherans?’ said the voice.
“‘We are Lutherans! we are Lutherans! Who are you?’
“‘I am Pedro Menendez, general of the fleet of the King of Spain. At daybreak I will board your ships and every heretic shall die!’
“Then our men broke into laughter and jeering; ‘You are cowards,’ they shouted, ‘come at once.’
“Then they came down upon us. Captain Bourdelais ordered the cables cut, for we were at a disadvantage. All of the ships put to sea. My Captain has sent me to you. They fired upon this boat but we escaped. They are now fighting upon the sea--and this is my report.” When he had finished he bowed and stood silent.