“But——” Frank began.
Lord Hastings raised a hand.
“Further talk is useless,” he said. “I have said it is impossible!”
Frank’s eyes roved about the ship. Suddenly they fell upon the little launch.
“I am going, anyhow!” he cried, and ran toward the launch.
CHAPTER XXII.
IN DIRE PERIL.
When Lieutenant Taylor saw the Sylph’s launch turn and head for the little vessel without waiting for him, an expression of great surprise came over his face, followed by one of anxiety. He raised a shout, and, when he saw that Frank paid no heed to him, although he knew his shout had been heard, his suspicions were aroused.
Quickly he drew from his pocket the message Lord Hastings had ordered him to give to Captain Johnson, and tore it in little pieces. These he dropped into the water, and then made his way toward the captain, who stood awaiting his approach.
The captain greeted him pleasantly.
“You have a message for me, sir?” he asked.