The old skipper wrung the youth’s hand and left the room.
He returned to the hotel, but kept entirely out of the way of the Forces. He had not the courage to meet Rosemary.
CHAPTER XVII
ON BOARD THE PRIZE
Soon after dinner the earl and the squire left the hotel for the ship.
They took a street car that ran from Georgetown to the navy yard gate.
There they alighted and entered the yard, passed the officers’ quarters, passed the workshops and the ship house and went down to the water side.
As they neared it they saw an officer in naval uniform standing with his back toward them, and his gaze directed toward a boat, rowed by six men, that was swiftly coming toward the shore.
Mr. Force quickened his steps and laid his hand on the arm of the man, whom he had recognized as Le.
The latter turned quickly, started joyfully, and held out both hands, exclaiming:
“Uncle Abel!”