What does that mean? inquired Drake.
That means stop, replied Cahoonshee.
Rolla gave three barks, sprang into the water, and swam toward the island.
That is the Amy bark, exclaimed Drake. Let us paddle after him.
Put down the paddle, boy, or they will blow us out of the water.
Bang!
The ball is seen ricocheting on the water in a direct line with the float, and struck the end of one of the forward logs, and knocked off a sliver that struck Cahoonshee and carried him overboard. Quick caught him by the hair and pulled him back.
Don’t move a paddle, he said. If you do, the third shot will tear us to pieces. But just keep still and we are safe. See, they are coming after us, and then they will tell us what they want. Perhaps they will take us on board of the ship.
By this time the ship’s boat had nearly reached the float. Walter stood in the bow with his sword drawn. Lieutenant Powers was at the helm, and between them stood a company of armed marines.
Keep quiet, said Cahoonshee, I will answer all questions.