“Now, then, Mr Keene,” said he, “we will know what has taken place. Of course we have seen most of it.”
I narrated what the reader already knows.
“What do you suppose to have been the loss?”
“I should say three boats, and about forty men, sir. I forgot, sir, to tell you that we have a lieutenant and two officers prisoners, whom I brought on board with me.”
“Desire them to be brought on deck,” said the captain. “Mr Keene, you have done your work well—with great gallantry and great judgment.”
I touched my hat, not a little pleased at such a compliment from. Captain Delmar.
“What’s the last soundings, Mr Smith?” inquired the captain.
“And a quarter four, sir,” said the master.
“This chase won’t last long,” observed the captain. “Take in the lower studding-sail.”
The French lieutenant was then questioned; but with the exception of the name of the ship and captain, there was little to be expected from him, and he was dismissed and sent below.