CHAPTER XVII.

_Adventures on the Shores of Lake Maracaibo._

Preparations for the Defence of Gibraltar.--The Hidden Ships.--The Hiding-place of the Governor and the Women.--Disaster and Failure.--Capture of the Spanish Ships.--The Retreat Commenced.--Peril of the Pirates.--Singular Correspondence.--Strength of the Spanish Armament.--The Public Conference of the Pirates.--The Naval Battle.--The Fire-Ship.--Wonderful Achievement of the Pirates. 273