Late one afternoon, when their patience had become well-nigh exhausted
by this tedious delay, all hearts were thrilled by the report of a
fleet of ships seen far out at sea, but approaching the land. An
anxious night followed, for again were the members of the little band
torn with conflicting fears and hopes. Were the ships French, English,
or Spanish? Daylight only could bring an answer to the question.
At length it came, and as the sun rose, its earliest beams fell upon
seven tall ships riding easily at anchor outside the bar. From each
was displayed in the golden light the fair lily banner of France.
At this glorious sight there was indeed joy on board the ship of
Laudonniere. At last the long-looked-for reinforcements had come.
There was no more talk of mutiny, nor of abandoning the country. Now
the cry was, "Ho for Fort Caroline, and destruction to the savages!"
Crowding all sail upon their newly acquired ship, and with its guns
firing salutes of welcome, and banners flung to the breeze from every
point, they sailed out over the still tumultuous bar to greet the
new-comers from their own land. It was indeed Admiral Jean Ribault and
his fleet of succor for the little colony. On board his flag-ship
_Trinity_, a joyful meeting took place between him and his trusted
lieutenant, the brave Laudonniere, who, supported by Rene de Veaux and
Le Moyne, found strength to carry himself thither.
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