“Ahoy! is that the American ship, Ranger?”
“It is,” came the prompt reply from the deck of the other vessel.
“We are going to send a boat to you.”
“Heave ahead, my hearty.”
A skiff was lowered over the schooner’s stern, and Ethan and Longsword were rowed to the war ship’s side and clambered to the deck.
“Well, sir,” demanded a harsh looking man in the dress of a lieutenant.
“I desire to see Captain Jones, if he is aboard,” said Ethan, quietly.
“The captain is very busy just now. I am Lieutenant Simpson, and will attend to any business that you may have.”
There was a studied affront in the man’s manner that angered Ethan; but he replied, still quietly:
“My business is with the commander of this ship in person, if you please.”