Brandon gave a cheer. At the opportune moment, help was at hand.
CHAPTER XVIII
CLEARING UP THE MYSTERY
The Patrol-leader could only surmise that the searchlight came from a British warship. It was impossible to discern the source of that blinding beam or to form any idea of the distance from which it came.
Then through the night came a crisp order:
"Away sea-boat's crew!"
The steady plash of oars and the creaking of crutches announced the approach of the warship's boat. Presently she swung athwart the dazzling beam, the crew outlined in silver as they bent to the pliant oars.
"Way 'nough—in bow."
Right alongside the Marie-Celeste swung the boat. Lithe, active bluejackets swarmed up the drifter's rusty sides. Loud, excited protests on the part of the foreigners were checked by a stern order that they were under arrest.