"Mr Grenvile," said he, "I am going to prove to you, by placing you in command of the _Francesca_, that the loss of the _Dolores_ has in no wise shaken my confidence in you.  I remember, of course, that you are on the sick list; but I have consulted the surgeon relative to my proposed arrangement, and he assures me that a few days at sea will be far better for your health than remaining on the coast aboard the _Shark_.  Your duties will be easy, for I intend to send with you Jones and Simpson, the boatswain's and carpenter's mates, who were with you in the _Dolores_, and a rather stronger crew than you had in that craft. You may also have Mr Keene to keep you company.  You will sail in company with the brig, which will be under the command of Mr Fawcett, and since I learn that both craft, contrary to the ordinary usage of slavers, are heavily armed, you are not likely to suffer molestation this time on your voyage to Sierra Leone."