But the order did not come, and he only heard a growling sound as the boatswain said something to one of the men.
“They’re waiting for something,” thought Syd, as a low talking arose on deck; and he heard a voice reply which he knew was his father’s, and the blood flushed to his cheeks.
“Give way, my lads!” came at last, and Syd exultantly exclaimed to himself, as the tension was taken off—
“He didn’t see me,” and he heard the oars splash, and felt that the boat was gliding through the water.
But Sydney was not quite right, for as soon as the boat had put off, the first lieutenant went aft to where the captain was standing, examining the rock.
“Well, Mr Bracy,” he said, as he closed the glass with a snap.
“I thought I’d tell you, sir, that Mr Belton came and asked leave to go in the last boat.”
“Did you give him permission?”
“No, sir.”
“That’s right.”