"But the crew--the men--not before them all!" said Coventry, striving to gain time.
"Before Heaven itself the offence was given," said the admiral, losing all control over himself in his fury, "and the punishment shall have equal publicity." The midshipman who had hastened below now came running on deck in terror.
"There's no one there, my Lord; they've gone, escaped, sir!" he cried.
"Impossible!" exclaimed Pearson.
"Escaped!" said the admiral, turning to the captain. "Had you no sentry to watch them, sir?"
"Yes, my Lord, certainly," said Pearson.
"Let him be tried and shot forthwith, then, for gross neglect of duty in permitting--"
"My Lord, the sentry is innocent," interrupted Coventry; "I replaced him; I alone am guilty."
"Worse and worse! You knew they escaped, sir?" said the admiral.
"I did; 'twas to prevent discovery I took his place," replied his son, bowing. Captain Pearson opened his mouth to speak, but his superior silenced him with a wave of his hand.