The Restitution swooped down a surging roller as Kent steadied his gaze upon his fleeing prey. Under a full crowd of sail, the slaver made a good run for it, but she sat low in the water. Although her crew tossed crates and barrels overboard to lighten their load, their efforts would be futile. Hot wind swamped him, igniting the excitement of the chase. He braced his boots as the ship thrust boldly into the next swell, sending a spray of foam exploding over the bow.

With ...