“Why, sir, I thought—” began Murray.
“So did I, my lad; but unfortunately those blacks in supplying us with water to saturate that last fire—”
“Threw it over the powder-supply, sir!” cried Murray, in horror.
“Yes, my lad; that is our position, and we have only a few charges left.”
“Hah! Well, sir,” said Murray drawing a deep breath, “then we must use the edges of our cutlasses.”
“Good!” said the lieutenant, clapping the lad upon the shoulder. “I am glad I told you, Mr Murray, for it has taught me that I have a brave lad upon whom I can depend. Yes, my lad, we have edges to our cutlasses, and when it comes to the last we must use them too.”