Lord Julian came. He was very stern and dignified. His eyes took in the situation at a glance, as Captain Blood rose to greet him.
“It's mighty friendly of you to have joined us, my lord.”
“Captain Blood,” said his lordship with asperity, “I find your humour a little forced. I don't know what may be your intentions; but I wonder do you realize the risks you are running.”
“And I wonder does your lordship realize the risk to yourself in following us aboard as I had counted that you would.”
“What shall that mean, sir?”
Blood signalled to Benjamin, who was standing behind Bishop.
“Set a chair for his lordship. Hayton, send his lordship's boat ashore. Tell them he'll not be returning yet awhile.”
“What's that?” cried his lordship. “Blister me! D'ye mean to detain me? Are ye mad?”
“Better wait, Hayton, in case his lordship should turn violent,” said Blood. “You, Benjamin, you heard the message. Deliver it.”
“Will you tell me what you intend, sir?” demanded his lordship, quivering with anger.