resented their leader's authority so it was not long before they were
discontented and plotted against him. Some even revolted and slipped
away in stolen boats, on a plundering expedition to the West Indies."

"What happened to the colonists who were left at Fort Caroline?"
questioned Earl.

"They were almost starved when Sir John Hawkins, a famous
English sailor, arrived looking along the coast for some fresh water. He
noticed their distress and gave them generous quantities of food and
other supplies. Laudonniere gave Sir John some artillery and powder in
exchange for a boat. After Hawkins left, Laudonniere and his men
prepared to leave Fort Caroline. Just as they were ready to go, Jean
Ribaut arrived from France with a float of seven ships, all laden with
food, supplies of all kinds, re-enforcement of soldiers, and some women
and children. Altogether there were probably a thousand newcomers.
This caused great rejoicing among Laudonniere's men. Now, under the
leadership of Jean Ribaut, they planned to make a permanent settlement
at Fort Caroline."

Earl and his Uncle had now reached the highest point on the
bluff. Beyond the trees they could see the water as it wound around a
bend in the river. Earl wanted to roll down the banks in the clean white
sand.

"Did the French make a permanent settlement here?" asked Earl
as he picked up a handful of sand and let it sift through his fingers.