CHAPTER II.

William Kidd becomes a Pirate. Ravages of the Pirates.—The King's Interview with Earl Bellomont.—William Kidd, the New-York Merchant.—His Commission.—Sailing of the Adventure.—Recruiting in New York.—Circuitous Trip to Madagascar.—Perils and Sufferings.—Madagascar the Pirates' Home.—Murmurings of the Crew.—Kidd reluctantly turns Pirate.—His Repulses, and his Captures. 29