A deep blush spread over Catherine's face She fixed her dark eyes upon her questioner with a peculiar expression that made his inmost heart flutter. She tried to answer, but there came no sound from her trembling lips.
"Wait here for me," said the young man.
He turned to the captain and went with him to a retired part of the deck. The robust farmer had turned aside and felt no further interest in the deal, after he saw that another purchaser for the merchandise was found, and which, all things considered, was entirely too dear for him.
"Now, Mr. Broom," said Lambert, as he overtook him, "I am at your service."
"I'll be----if I know what you want," said the captain.
"Simply this: To take that girl there, whom you call Catherine Weise, with me from the ship, and that at once."
"Oho!" said the captain, "you are in a hurry. Has she told you how much she owes us?"
"No," said Lambert, "but I have already heard the amount from you."
"Ninety pounds! sir, ninety pounds! That isn't a small matter," cried the captain.
"I suppose you will be able to show that the maiden owes you so much. You will then find me ready."