No one answered, and the silence was broken by the dull thud of another gun.
“It is of no use, I can’t return while it is light, but the summons must be answered. Here, Lenny, go back and tell Sir John what has happened, and that we are searching in every direction.”
“Me, sir?” cried the man with a look of horror; “I couldn’t do it, sir.”
“You must. You have been out all day, and must be done up.”
“Me, sir! My mate’s ever so much worse nor me. Send him.”
“G’orn with you,” cried the other sailor who had been with them since the first start; “why I arn’t half so done as he is, sir.”
“I want you to go, Lenny,” said the doctor sternly. “I dare say you will find another boat waiting. Send the men up to help the search. But there is no need to send that message, Sir John is sure to have come himself.”
“Mean it, sir? I’m to go?” said Lenny.
“Yes, of course.”
“Well, sir, I’d sooner keep on hunting for the poor lad all night than face Sir John; but if you say I am to do it, why do it I must.”