"A customs officer, then?"
"He comes from the shore."
"Then perhaps it's an invitation for us to go and dine with the French captain?"
"I've no doubt it's an invitation of some kind, and probably one that is meant to be accepted."
At this juncture the French boat dashed alongside, and, without leaving his place, the lieutenant in command said in fair English:
"Is not zat ze boat of Monsieur Baldwin of Pretty Harbour on ze côte Française?"
"It is," replied the young skipper, curtly.
"You haf, of course, ze papaire of health, and ze papaire of clearance for St. Pierre?"
"No; I have no papers except a certificate of registry."
"Ah! Is it possible? In zat case ze commandant of ze frigate 'Isla' will be please to see you on board at your earlies' convenience."