There must have been something compelling in my manner for he instantly obeyed me. He threw himself flat before me and it was not until I prodded him with my blade that he stopped howling.
“Tell me quickly,� I said, “and tell me truly, who are on the ship?�
“There were four of us,� he began.
“That is enough for the present,� I answered, for I had accounted for the whole four. “Any natives?�
“None.�
“Come with me,� I said.
I caught him by the collar of his shirt, dragged him to his feet, marched him along the deck, and bundled him to the forepeak. I drew the hatch cover, battened it down and locked it. I knew that he could not get out until I let him. Then I walked back to the man I had struck with my fist but discovered no signs of returning consciousness in him. He was still helpless but I lashed and gagged him as I had the first man. Having made sure that I had nothing to fear from these men I sprang to the rail on the top of the trunk cabin.
“Mistress Lucy,� I cried.
“Oh, thank God, thank God,� came her voice in the darkness. “I heard the shouting, I saw the light. Are you unharmed?�
“Entirely,� I answered, “and I have the ship. Leave the boat fast as it is and climb aboard. Stay, perhaps I would better descend and help you.�