"Why should you suppose otherwise?" replied Lord B.; "it is not only my wish but my interest so to do. He may take us over to France to-night, or anywhere else. Has he not possession of the vessel?"
"Yes," replied Cecilia; "but we flatter ourselves that we have the command. Shall we call him down, papa?"
"Ring for Maddox. Maddox, tell Mr Pickersgill, who is on deck, that I wish to speak with him, and shall be obliged by his stepping down into the cabin."
"Who, my lord? What? Him?"
"Yes, him," replied Cecilia, laughing.
"Must I call him, my lord, now, miss?"
"You may do as you please, Maddox; but recollect, he is still in possession of the vessel," replied Cecilia.
"Then, with your lordship's permission, I will; it's the safest way."
The smuggler entered the cabin; the ladies started as he appeared in his rough costume, with his throat open, and his loose black handkerchief. He was the beau idéal of a handsome sailor.
"Your lordship wishes to communicate with me?"