And almost immediately another sail was lowered, as if to dry, over the taffrail, covering the four stern windows like a thick curtain, and thus rendering the cabin quite dark, and all communication with the stranger impossible.
"This is a most extraordinary proceeding," said Mr. Basset.
"Not at all, sir," said Captain Phillips. "These are knowing rascals, who have us at their mercy; and have resolved that, if possible, we shall neither make signals to the stranger or overhear what passes."
"Hark—what sound is that?" asked Morley.
"Steam blowing off," replied Tom Bartelot, listening intently.
"Steam!" exclaimed Morley.
"Then, by heaven, it is a man-o'-war," said Phillips.
"A man-o'-war—a man-o'-war," chorussed all in great excitement.
"Oh, Heaven! to be on the verge of safety, and yet to be immured here with my two girls!" exclaimed Mr. Basset, with great bitterness. "I shall force my way on deck. I am commissioned by the Crown—a judge—a—a——"
"To be cut down, destroyed—Badger is armed with an axe, and the first head that appears will be cloven to the teeth. Oh, my dear sir," said Morley, grasping his sleeve, "be wary—be persuaded."