Then he played songs, and presently, when they had got their breath again, they sang. He played “ Spanish Ladies ,” and “ The Whale ,” “ Amsterdam ,” “ Blow the Man Down ,” “ Away to Rio ,” and many another.
At last it grew dusk.
“Our harbour lights are not lit,” said Captain John.
“We must get back before dark,” said Mate Susan.
“And there’s hardly any wind left,” said Captain Nancy. “Let’s start while we can sail.”
“Whaling tomorrow,” said Captain Flint, as he said goodbye.
“Treasure-hunting,” said Able-seaman Titty.
A few minutes later the Swallow and the Amazon were heading out of the bay.
Captain Flint leaned on the rail and watched them go. The sound of his playing reached them over the water until they cleared the point and met the wind.
“He made a jolly good pirate,” said Captain John.
“It’s a pity he’s so old,” said Roger.
“He isn’t so awfully old,” said Titty.