"Tumble out here, you sleepers!"
As usual, this was not quite effectual, and a couple of hands went into the forecastle, and shook the heavy slumberers. The first that appeared were Pedro and Sylvio, the two Portuguese sailors. They were affectionately hugged by Walker and Baxter, and their yells startled the other two. As they rushed out they were treated in the same familiar and loving manner, and in a moment or two we had them all fast to the rail.
"What does all this mean?" demanded Franklin, the only remaining neutral or doubtful man on board.
"There has been a fight between the slave traders and the honest men on board," I replied.
"Is that so?"
"That's so, Franklin; and the honest men have won the battle."
"Why do you tie me up? I am not a slave trader."
"It's all the same. You were in doubt whether to serve the devil or not. Those who are not with us are against us."
"I'm not against you."
"Yes, you are," added Baxter, stoutly. "A milk-and-water man is about the same as an enemy."