But half an hour later it was clear that the ship was steering for the island. An hour later all were sure that it was the Osprey.
“Let us raise our signal and then go down to the beach,” said Guy.
His suggestion was followed. Leaving the signal on the summit of the hill, they made their way downward, through the belt of woods, to the shore.
Still one or another looked through the glass until doubt became certainty, and the familiar form of the Osprey was clearly to be seen.
“Thank God!” said Titcomb, fervently.
No sooner was the Osprey near enough than a boat was lowered. Among those it bore were Forbush and Frank Low.
As they landed, the three prisoners rushed joyfully to greet them.
“Then Captain Richmond relented?” said Guy. “He repented of his inhuman course?”
“Captain Richmond is dead,” said Frank Low, gravely. “Mr. Forbush is now captain.”
“But how did he die? Was he stricken with disease?”