As soon as our somewhat shaken nerves would permit we proceeded to search the _Berwick Castle_, in the hope of finding some at least of her crew, but there was no trace of them beyond the seamen's chests in the forecastle and the clothing of the master and officers in their respective cabins, all of which showed signs of having been made free with by the captors; the crew had vanished, to the last man, having doubtless been offered, in accordance with the pirates' usual policy, the alternative of service under the black flag, or--death.  And apparently, to their eternal honour, they had chosen the latter.