Thus before the English could prevent them, a considerable number had managed to escape from the ship, taking their way to a point up the harbour where they could land without being molested. The men-of-war's boats had been left with their boatkeepers in the bay. As soon as Deane saw that he could reach them without running the risk of encountering the pirates, he determined to place Elizabeth on board them. "If we stay here, we shall very probably fall in with the buccaneers, who are likely to fly to this rock in the hope of defending themselves. Our way is now clear to the boats, and I will carry you there," he said, taking Elizabeth's arm. "Whatever you think best I am ready to do," she answered; and they hurried towards the bay. Fortunately, the officer in charge of the boats belonged to Deane's own ship, and recognising him, at once received Elizabeth on board. "Now I have placed you in safety, I will go back and endeavour to protect our kind friend Mistress Pearson," he said. Elizabeth thanked him warmly, though she evidently at the same time dreaded losing sight of him. Deane well knew there was no time to be lost, for the sound of the firing and the shouts and cries of the combatants told him that they were approaching the village. He hurried back therefore, taking a sheltered way among the trees. He had just reached the house, when he saw a number of buccaneers rushing towards the village, with the intention, he judged, of attempting to defend themselves behind the walls of the buildings. He found Mistress Pearson standing pale with terror at the sound of the guns which had reached her ears, not knowing which party had been successful. Deane once more entreated her to fly. "If you remain, you will too probably lose your life in the struggle," he said. Scarcely waiting for her answer, he had drawn her to the door, when he was seen by some of the pirates. "Down with the villain! down with the traitor who has brought the enemy upon us!" they shouted.