Chapter 7 Summary

Morning breaks and Aubrey is astounded to discover the Dutch ship still in hot pursuit—clearly the captain is cunning and devoted to combat. A multi-day chase ensues and Leopard, to avoid combat, is driven ever southwards—far beyond what Aubrey desires. At one early stage of the pursuit the Dutch ship mounts an attempted surprise attack by sending her boats, full of men, around Leopard in the darkness. Aubrey's vigilance pays off and the attack is detected; Leopard shoots grape into the approaching boats, killing many, before sailing away. Still the Dutch ship pursues, and Aubrey is amazed at the Dutch captain's incredible ability to predict Leopard's movements. The crew begins to believe that someone aboard is sending magical messages to the enemy ship. After several days, Aubrey has hawsers run to the masts to strengthen the standing rigging.

The...