"I shall be my own judge of the merits of the actors in the comedy, for it does not yet appear to be a tragedy, after I have learned more about it," added Captain Ringgold.
"I may add that Sir Felix McGavonty and Sir Morris Woolridge did their full and fair share of the acting in the comedy, as you call it, though I think the three smugglers who are prisoners in the cabin and pilot-house will be disposed to regard it as more like a tragedy. Probably the captain of the schooner in tow will be inclined to take that view of the occasion."
"Three prisoners?" queried the commander.
"That is the number on board of the little steamer; and the captain of the vessel astern may be included in the same category."
"Are they men or boys?"
"Men, of course, for small boys don't go out smuggling, as a rule."
"Are they English?"
"Four of them are Spaniards who don't speak a word of English, and one who seems to be a partner with the captain in the enterprise is a Scotchman by the name of Gray."
"Is there anything to be done immediately, Sir Louis?"
"I think Sir Felix has put Mr. Boulong in the way of securing the captain of the schooner, who is on board of her, and Lucio, one of his men. The others are all made fast to the steamer, with their hands tied behind them. But, Captain Ringgold, I want you to settle up this business by deciding what shall be done with the Golondrina and the prisoners, for you know all about such things, and I know nothing," said Louis.