We could not afford to spend very much time on her because the other two craft were near at hand, and without further ceremony than that of hailing to learn who she was, a prize crew was called away to board her.
We waited only long enough to make certain our men were not opposed when they went over the rail, and then the Essex was headed for the other ships, both of whom were clawing off at the best possible speed.
For two hours we cracked on every inch of canvas that could be spread, overhauling the strangers in fine style, and then, while we were yet fully eight miles distant, Phil's wish was granted. The wind died away so suddenly that, save for the general excitement of taking prizes, all hands would have been on the lookout for a squall, and Phil cried in my ear:—
"Now we shall see something of real business. Those craft won't submit tamely to our small boats, and we shall know what a sea-fight is like!"
I believed he spoke only the truth, and once more the cold shivers chased themselves up and down my backbone; for despite all the fine words with which I had regaled my cousin, I was not really hankering to put myself in the way of the smallest shot that might be fired. The mischief had been done, however, and by no one but myself; therefore the least I could do was to look pleasant, although I hoped most fervently that Mr. Downes would give no heed to my cousin's request.
In this last I was most wofully disappointed, for Phil had hardly more than ceased speaking when a marine came to summon me aft.
I went, knowing full well why the order had been sent, and blaming myself for a meddling fool, when by holding my tongue I might have remained safe and sound on board the Essex instead of pulling a heavy oar two or three hours simply that the Britishers could have an opportunity to kill me.
Lieutenant Downes was on the quarter talking with Captain Porter when I came up, and not until his interview with the commander was come to an end did he turn toward me. Then it was to say:—