Hoppy had snatched a boarding pike from the rack and Dunton paused irresolutely before the weapon.
“Halt!” cried the American.
Dunton faced him. The officer was no coward, but the suddenness of the whole thing was disconcerting and he was puzzled how to proceed.
“This vessel is American property, Dunton; she now reverts to her rightful owners!”
Dunton did not reply. He looked at Jenkins and the latter disappeared into the cabin. Hoppy laughed mockingly as the junior reappeared looking decidedly crestfallen.
“Your pistols are not in your writing case, sir.”
This was too much for Dunton. His features were distorted with passion and he hurled a volley of vile language at the American.
“Avast there, you swab!” roared Hoppy; “another man so near death as you are would be saying his prayers instead of using filthy talk!”
“All hands, ahoy!” screamed Dunton.
“Aye, you may call them, my bold fellow, but they couldn’t hear even Gabriel’s trumpet now!”