Tempest knocked at the cabin door, which he had roughly boarded up after Scarron's foot had done its work so effectually.
But there was no response, and a message that Captain Vernon was coming on board caused him to hasten to the deck.
"The shock of your presence might be too much for her," said Vernon. "Let me prepare Miss Decatur."
The captain of the Lively Bee had only seen Bertha once, and he did not think she would recognize him.
He knocked at the cabin door, and she bade him enter.
She started as she saw a stranger.
"Well, sir?"
"Miss Decatur, I am a stranger to you, but I would like permission to say a few words to you."
"Proceed, sir; only, if you are here to plead his cause, your words will be in vain."