No feeling of pity at the abject terror of the wretched man crossed him.
For his thoughts went back to those fearful days and nights they passed on board the doomed "Albatross."
Jovial Captain Robinson had been pitiless before, and the sufferings gone through in that terrible time had hardened Joe Deering's kind heart.
A genial, generous and soft-hearted fellow as a rule, he could not pardon this infamous wretch who had lured him into such a trap, even while professing the most affectionate friendship for him.
No!
This was Joe Deering's chance—his long looked-for opportunity, and no weak emotion should spoil the revenge which he had waited for so patiently.
Jovial Captain Robinson essayed to speak.
In a faint, faltering voice, he managed to pronounce Joe Deering's name.
"Well, murderer!" returned Joe Deering; "what is it you want?"