Chapter 15

“Good weather and a fair wind,” Mr. Brewster said. “If this wind holds, we will have a pleasant voyage home.”

Just then Raphael, who was on watch in the crow’s nest, called out, “Sail ho! One point on the larboard bow!”

The men looked in the direction indicated. There, in the distance, Thor could see a large ship.

“What flag does she fly?” Miguel asked. Thor looked at him. The boatswain’s face showed concern.

The mate trained his glass on the vessel. “Black!”

Miguel looked at Thor, his jaw set.

“She is heading our way,” Brewster said. “Thor, inform the captain.”

“Aye, sir,” the seaman answered and, with one more look at Miguel, left the deck and ran below to the captain’s cabin.

“Come.” The captain said in answer to Thor’s knock.