Detail Slocum's first encounter with thieves and bandits. Discuss how the author outwitted a pirate.

The Spray has its first experience with savages when it was chased by Fortescue Indians in the Bay. Slocum managed to outwit them. Slocum also had his first real encounter with pirates in the same area. The pirates were led by the notorious Black Pedro. In order to appear less vulnerable, Slocum devised a plan to trick Black Pedro. Slocum changed clothes several times and appeared at various points around the boat, making it look as if there was a crew, not just a single occupant.