What would happen? Would John be punished for what he had done? She dared not question him, but she felt that she must know. His eyes were closed and she tried to remove her hand from his, but he stirred restlessly. At last his grip relaxed, and she went on deck where she found Edward Drake who was talking to Captain Armstrong.
“What is going to be the end of this?” she asked, and waved her hands towards the disabled steamers.
“We shall know in an hour’s time,” the captain answered.
“What do you mean?”
“There are war-ships on the horizon and they are coming here.”
“Then why don’t you escape while there is time?” she cried excitedly.
“Ask Mr. Drake,” the captain said drily.
Lady Mildred looked inquiringly at him.
“We have acted as our consciences directed, and we are prepared to face the responsibility for what we have done,” Drake said quietly.
“But you may be severely punished. You, and my husband. Mr. Gaunt is ill. Escape while there is time,” she cried excitedly.