Taking his cue from Croft and the Anarchist, Goodall proceeded to hoist the lee-board over the edge of the car, so as to be even with their opponents when they renewed their attack, for it appeared as though they intended to do so, as their duck guns had been reloaded, and Croft had placed his leather bag, which was supposed to contain the squire’s property, in a snug place by his side; but his companion was writhing with pain, owing to the peppering his legs and back had received from Trigger. Possibly he was not seriously hurt, but his vows of vengeance on Tom Trigger and his companions, were truly horrible to listen to. Evidently it had not been believed that the aeronauts were able to make such a stout retaliation.
Presently the loud shriek of a fog horn was heard, as though a steamer were approaching through the mist.
Croft, as if startled at the sound, decided upon immediate action, believing probably in the badness of his own cause, and fearing the approach of those who might lend assistance to the aeronauts.
“Now or never!” he said to his fierce associate, “let them have it,” and another volley was discharged at the balloonists, but they had kept their bodies well behind the board; and as Harry Goodall could just discern a steam vessel looming through the fog, he at once ordered Trigger and Warner not to return the fire, especially as someone could be distinctly heard hailing them in English.
“Ship ahoy! What’s amiss?” asked someone. “What’s all this firing about? Is there mutiny on board?”
“Blowed if there ain’t a balloon hitched on to the lugger,” exclaimed another voice before Goodall could reply.
“If you will send a boat, I’ll explain matters,” said Goodall. “What ship are you?”
“Oh, yes, I’ll have a boat manned. Hold on. I am Link, the captain. This is the Retriever from London.”
“What! my dear old friend Link, by all that’s wonderful. I’m Harry Goodall. Well, this is a bit of luck and no mistake.”
The situation now became still more exciting, for Croft, who heard what had been said, rushed out of ambush, bag in hand, and looked as if he were either going to jump overboard or throw his bag into the sea. Hereupon, Harry Goodall immediately levelled his air-gun and sent a pellet through Croft’s left arm, which was extended with a swinging motion, causing him at once to drop the bag. Then Goodall made a dash for the deck of the lugger by slipping down a rope, he scarcely knew how, being followed by Warner, while Trigger compensated for their loss of weight by discharging gas very freely. The detective at once confronted Croft, produced his warrant and slipped on the handcuffs, while Goodall held a revolver menacingly; as he did so, Captain Link and his crew, who had steamed up nearer to them, witnessed this proceeding, and a ringing cheer was given when Harry Goodall held up for their inspection the black bag which held the stolen cash, the deeds and other securities.