'Seize him, my lads!' said Edward, pointing with his left hand to Hawkhurst; as with his sword directed to the body of Francisco he bitterly continued, 'This victim is mine!' But, whatever were his intentions, they were frustrated by Clara's recognition, who shrieked out, 'My Edward!' sprang into his arms, and was immediately in a state of insensibility.
Clara sprang into his arms, and was immediately in a state of insensibility.
The seamen who had secured Hawkhurst looked upon the scene with curious astonishment, while Edward waited with mingled feelings of impatience and doubt for Clara's recovery; he wished to be assured by her that he was mistaken, and he turned again and again from her face to that of Francisco, who was fast recovering. During this painful suspense, Hawkhurst was bound and made to sit down.
'Edward! dear Edward!' said Clara at last, in a faint voice, clinging more closely to him; 'and am I then rescued by thee, dearest!'
Edward felt the appeal; but his jealousy had not yet subsided.
'Who is that, Clara?' said he sternly.
'It is Francisco. No pirate, Edward, but my preserver.'
'Ha, ha!' laughed Hawkhurst, with a bitter sneer, for he perceived how matters stood.