"In fact, captain, you look as if you'd but escaped with your skin this time!" said Hal.
"Faith! the captain looks well peeled!" said Stephen.
"Worse than that, boys! worse than that! Your chief has not only lost his pack, his hat and his coat, but—his heart! Not only are the outworks battered, but the citadel itself is taken! Not only has he been captured, but captivated! And all by a little minx of a girl! Boys, your chief is in love!" exclaimed Black Donald, throwing himself into his seat at the head of the table, and quaffing off a large draught of ale.
"Hip! hip! hurraw! three times three for the captain's love!" cried Hal, rising to propose the toast, which was honored with enthusiasm.
"Now tell us all about it, captain. Who is she? Where did you see her? Is she fair or dark; tall or short; thin or plump; what's her name, and is she kind?" asked Hal.
"First, guess where I have been to-day?"
"You and your demon only know!"
"I guess they also know at Hurricane Hall, for it is there I have been!"
"Well, then, why didn't you go to perdition at once?" exclaimed Hal, in a consternation that was reflected in every countenance present.
"Why, because when I go there I intend to take you all with me and remain!" answered Black Donald.