"That last seems a very likely plan, Herrick," said Mr Brooke.  "The scoundrels play into each other's hands; and I daresay, if the truth was known, some of these merchants sell cargoes to traders, and then give notice to the pirates, who plunder the vessels and then sell the stuff again to the merchants at a cheap rate.  But there, we must eat, my lad, and our breakfast was very late and very light.  We will make a good meal, and then see what the darkness brings forth."