“Well, but is that all you can tell me, John?”
“Yes,” replied John, walking away.
“At all events, Miss Emma, he keeps all his knowledge to himself,” observed Captain Wilson, laughing.
“Yes; I shall know nothing about the whale-fishery, unless you will condescend to tell me yourself, that is evident,” replied Emma, taking the offered arm of Captain Wilson, who, at her request, immediately resumed the subject.
In three weeks from the day of the action they had anchored off the town of Quebec.
As soon as they had anchored, Alfred obtained leave to go on board of the London Merchant, and then, for the first time, his family knew that he had been wounded. His arm was still in a sling, but was healing fast.
I shall pass over the numerous inquiries on his part relative to their capture and recapture, and on theirs, as to the action with the French ship.
While they were in conversation, Captain Lumley was reported to be coming on board in his boat. They went on the deck of the vessel to receive him.
“Well, Mrs Campbell,” said Captain Lumley after the first salutations were over, “you must congratulate me on my having captured a vessel somewhat larger than my own; and I must congratulate you on the conduct and certain promotion of your son Alfred. He has richly deserved it.”
“I am very thankful, Captain Lumley, and do most heartily congratulate you,” replied Mrs Campbell; “I only regret that my boy has been wounded.”