"Laborers, niggers," replied the Russian.
"Why not?"
"I expect they have sent all the strong ones up to work on the fortifications."
"Shall we find no one at the negro quarters?" asked the lieutenant with interest.
"Only the women and the old hands, too old to do much work."
"Can you make out where you are, Mike?" inquired Mr. Pennant, after about half a mile had been made.
"I can just see the fort and the big house. It is not so very dark to-night," answered the Russian.
The course was believed to be correct for the point indicated by the captain, and in less than half an hour the boat grounded; but the shore was bold enough to enable the men to land. Mr. Pennant went to the forward part of the boat and took a careful look all around him. All was as silent as a tomb. Stepping into the fore-sheets, he leaped on shore, directing the Russian to follow him.
"Vincent, you will remain in charge of the boat and the men," said the third lieutenant, addressing the quartermaster. "I will explore the island with Mike. I have the fireworks with me, and you will keep a sharp lookout in the direction of the fort. If you see a light close to the water, make for it as fast as you can. Do you understand me?"
"Perfectly, Mr. Pennant."