CHAPTER XVI
DESSALINES' PRAYER
DURING Dessalines' absence Rosenthal had gone ahead rapidly with his preparations for the campaign. Had he not known the character of Admiral Killik and the demoralized condition of his worthless crew, Rosenthal would have entertained grave doubts concerning the ability of his vessel to cope with the Crête-à-Pierrot. He knew Killik, however, for an adventurer; his negro crew utterly unreliable, and at most times ashore or lying half-drunk about the vessel. Moreover the Jew had confidence in Dessalines so far as his physical courage was concerned, especially when supported by himself. The Waccamaw was well armed with six six-pounders and the two field pieces which were to be mounted on the berth deck and could be trained through the freight ports.
Rosenthal personally was a courageous man; in fact, considering the size of the stake, he felt an actual zest for the throw which was to decide it. With him valor was inspired by profit; glory could not have awakened it; in this he was a direct atavism to the early Phœnician merchant pirate.
The element which caused him the greatest disquiet was the selection of the two officers, captain and mate, required to navigate the Waccamaw. There were several men of his acquaintance whom he might have selected had he not been pressed for time. As it was
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