Page:History of Paul Jones.pdf/8

 should any resistance be offered. The diversity of arms with which the party were equipped, farther confirmed the ill opinion entertained of the marauders; these consisted of muskets, pistols, swords, &c., and one fellow bore an American tomahawk over his shoulder. Two officers commanded the party—the one rude in his manner—the other courteous and respectful, and apologized to her ladyship for the unpleasant duty in which it was unfortunately his lot to appear as the principal.

Their first enquiry was for the appearance of Lord Selkirk; and on being assured that he was not in that part of the country, they expressed considerable disappointment. After a short pause, the officer who had treated her ladyship with the most respect, said, he must request the production of all the plate in her possession. She answered, that the plate which was in the castle was but small in quantity, but, such as it was, they should have it. Accordingly, the whole was laid before them, even the silver teapot which was used at breakfast, and which had not since been washed out. The officer, on receiving it, ordered his men to pack it all up, and apologising to the lady for his conduct, he retired with his party, and returned to the ship, leaving the family not a little pleased at their escape from a worse fate, which they apprehended. Still, however, as the ship did not immediately get under weigh, her ladyship entertained fears of a second visit, which, however, were fortunately unfounded, as in a few hours the privateer proceeded to sea. Lady Selkirk was still more gratified, in a few days, by the receipt of a letter from Jones, written in a romantic style, in which he entreated her ladyship's pardon for the late affront—assuring her, that so far from having been suggested or sanctioned by him, he had exerted his influence in order to prevent it; but his officers and crew had