This was good news for the young man-of-war’s men, who felt it incumbent on them to rejoin their ship as soon as possible. Even as things were, it was likely that news of their continued absence had been cabled home.
Luncheon was a peculiar meal. It was served from the scant stores of the Barrill, and the already depleted menu was not improved by the addition of the insurgent officers. They bore the news of their defeat with long countenances, but bravely enough put the best face possible on matters, and did not let their gloom interfere with the merriment of the others.
“I am going to propose the health of you four brave Americans,” whispered the captain, as the meal drew to a close.
“For Heaven’s sake, sir, do nothing of the sort, I beg,” whispered the middy, who sat next to him, and who, fortunately, had been the only one to catch his remark. “It might mean the loss of my commission and the ruin of the others.”
“What!” exclaimed the captain in amazement, but in a low voice, “you are never going to acknowledge the magnificent part you played to-day?”
“No, sir. We had much rather it would never be mentioned. These insurgent officers do not know who we are. The matter need never go further.”
“By the saints, you Americans are beyond me!” exclaimed the captain, “but, my dear young friend, of course the wishes of yourself or of your friends are sacred to me, and shall be obeyed.”
“Thank you,” said the middy simply.
The damaged condenser was repaired by the engine-room force sufficiently to allow the American party to be landed at Los Olivos that night. They were rowed ashore in plain clothes, borrowed from the friendly officers of the destroyer. Under the captain’s guidance they soon reached the home of his friends, a villa set back in magnificent grounds, on the outskirts of the little town. The officer’s acquaintances willingly agreed to aid the Americans.
A native guide was provided, and as soon as courtesy would permit, the Americans, who could ill conceal their impatience, started on their perilous journey. Owing to the wires being cut, no news of developments near to Boca del Sierras had filtered into the northern country. For all Midshipman Stark and his companions knew, they might find the insurgents in possession of the place. In that case they faced possibilities it was not pleasant to consider.