Louis looked at the commander, but made no reply.
"I am sorry to say that it is the Fatimé," added Captain Ringgold. "But you need not be concerned in the least about the Pacha, for he shall not put his Morocco shoes on the deck of this ship, Mr. Woolridge;" and he spoke in such a decided tone that the father of the beautiful Blanche was immediately reassured.
In a few minutes, and before the Grand Mogul's steamer had reached her anchorage, it was known that Ali-Noury Pacha had arrived; for some of them recognized the vessel, and Mr. Woolridge and the captain could not deny her identity when the question was put to them. Mrs. Woolridge was much disturbed, and Dr. Hawkes took charge of her. With the commander's assurance that the Pacha should not come on board of the ship, he succeeded in quieting her.
"Come on board, all of you," called Captain Ringgold to those still on board of the Maud; and they promptly obeyed, Scott declaring that there was to be "music" very soon.
"Mr. Boulong," continued the commander a little later.
"On deck, Captain," reported that officer, touching his cap.
"That Mohammedan humbug will probably attempt to get on board of the Guardian-Mother; and he is to be prevented from doing so even if you have to fling him overboard," said Captain Ringgold in his firmest and most severe tones, and with his two fists clinched. "The Maud is abreast of the gangway, and he will doubtless board her first. Don't let him or any of his people on board of her. Take eight men with you, and station them along the port rail.
"He shall not board her, sir," replied the first officer, as decidedly as his superior had spoken; and in five minutes more he and his men were on the deck of the Maud.
Mr. Gaskette, the second officer, was directed to patrol the starboard side of the ship, and permit no one to come on board from that side.