"Take hold of the painter of the bateau, and haul it alongside."
"Yes, sar."
"Cyd, take hold and help him. Haul it up to the foremast, and take it on deck."
The order was obeyed, though Cyd, in his terror, was not able to render much assistance. The bateau was taken on deck to assist the sailing of the Isabel, and also to prevent the pursuers from seizing it, if they should unfortunately come near enough to do so.
"Stop your boat, I say," yelled the slave-hunter, after they had pulled for a few moments with the most determined zeal.
"Can't stop!" replied Dan.
"Stop her, or I'll fire into you!"
"Gossifus!" exclaimed Cyd, whose teeth were still chattering with fear.
Dan made no reply, and concluded not to answer any more questions.
"Are ye go'n to stop her?" demanded the pursuer. "I b'lieve you've got that nigger on board; and if ye don't heave to, I'll fotch ye up with a bullet."