"Yes," replied Mr. Gardner. "Here, Mr. Le Grande, this man wants to see you." Emile approached, and looking curiously at the stranger, observed that he was clad partly in sailor's, partly in citizen's clothes. "What will you have, sir?" demanded Emile.
"Se¤or," replied the strange man, whose broken English betrayed his Spanish tongue, "Dere is at da w'arf Blanco Plaza, a 'Merican vessel from da States. A seik frien' wish to see se¤or Le Grande, very quick, very quick, se¤or."
"From what State does the vessel come?" asked Emile in astonishment.
"From da Soutern State, se¤or, da Pa'metto State."
In a moment Emile conjectured that it was some blockade-runner, and supposed some friend or relative had arrived, and, being unable to come on shore, had indeed sent for him. Without waiting to consider, and without further explanation, he accompanied the strange guide, who led the way to the wharf. The flags were floating free and gay, yet as this nameless cicerone pointed out the Tigress, that lay before them with flag staff bare, Emile Le Grande thought, "The captain is afraid to show his colors; well he may be."
"Captain Haralson, Se¤or Le Grande," said the guide, in broken accents, as he entered the ship's cabin, where the captain awaited his return. "I told cap'n you I would bring him," he continued, with a savage grin upon his features.
"Who is it would see me?" demanded Emile. "Where is my sick friend?"
"You are a prisoner, sir," replied the captain fiercely, "a fugitive from justice, and your State calls for your return."
"By what authority do you utter those words, you scoundrel?" replied
Emile, in bewildered indignation.
"By the authority of those you have injured, and who have sent me to bring you back."