"I think you will consider the case proved," added Mr. Hamblin, exultingly.
"By no means. Enough has been shown to warrant an inquiry. I will make an investigation immediately."
This was all Mr. Hamblin could ask; and, confident that Captain Kendall would be convicted, he left the cabin, as the captain of the Belgian steamer came in to settle for the towage.
CHAPTER XVI.
CAPTAIN KENDALL'S DEFENCE.
The squadron remained off Flushing long enough for Mr. Fluxion to visit the shore, and ascertain the condition of the "Wel tevreeden." The repairs were going on, but were not completed, and the cost of them could not yet be determined. The vice-principal, however, obtained such information in regard to the probable expense, as to enable him to make a final settlement. Captain Schimmelpennink came off to the Josephine with him on his return. It was certain that eleven hundred guilders would cover the whole expense of putting the galiot in perfect repair, and the balance of this sum was handed to the skipper.
If there ever was a grateful man in the world, that man was the captain of the "Wel tevreeden." In addition to the energetic speeches he made through the interpreter, he indulged in some very pretty and significant gesticulations, which the officers and crew could comprehend. The students were happy in the good deed they had done—quite as happy as the the skipper himself. In addition to the sum expended, there was five hundred and fifty-four guilders in the hands of the treasurer, which was to be used for some similar object when presented to them.
While Mr. Fluxion was absent at Flushing, Mr. Lowington had gone on board of the Josephine, and, taking Paul into his state-room, had exhibited the fictitious note to him, stating the charge made against him by Mr. Hamblin.
"I need not say, Captain Kendall, that this is a very serious charge," added the principal, solemnly.