Tom May shut one eye and cocked his head on one side in obedience to his young officer’s command; but all was perfectly still.
“It’s very strange,” said Murray.
“Yes, sir; very,” said the sailor, in a tone of voice which made the young officer turn upon him fiercely.
“Oh, you obstinate—”
Murray did not say what, but ceased speaking and stood straining forward.
“Of course you thought you heered oars, sir, because you wanted to hear ’em,” said the sailor; “but it’s a pity you did, sir, because it made me lose my bearings, and I know I shall never—”
“There, then,” cried the middy excitedly. “Now, did I fancy I heard rowing?”
“No, sir; that’s oars, sure enough,” replied the sailor; “and it seems to come from right for’ard there, and not far away.”
“Hail the boat, then,” cried Murray excitedly.