“Move not for your life, Oriel,” said his companion, earnestly, as he held him more firmly. “You can only be slaughtered, without conferring the slightest assistance, for see, the unequal struggle is over.”
A loud cheer from the ruffians proclaimed the truth of Zabra’s intimation. The faithful few were either killed, or so wounded as to be unable to continue the contest, and the victors were rejoicing at their triumph. Oriel Porphyry was not allowed many moments to consider of what he had best do, when Compass, Scrumpydike, and two or three of their associates, came hastily towards the place where he stood, flourishing their bloody weapons, and shouting their riotous hurras.
“Captain Compass!” exclaimed Oriel proudly, as the party advanced, “what is the meaning of this bloodshed?”
“Beg your pardon, Master Porphyry,” he replied, “I have the honour of being Captain Death; ey, boys?” said he turning to his men, and the appeal was answered by a noisy demonstration of applause. “Yes, I am Captain Death, the most distinguished leader of the Free Mariners in these seas; and I beg to inform you, that I now hold the ship and all it contains for the benefit of myself and brave companions; ey, boys?” and the inquiry met with a similar reply.
“And I begs to add to what the cap’ain says,” observed Scrumpydike, giving his ugly countenance a more ludicrous twist than ever, “that I’m Leevetenant Rifle, very much at your sarvice, gennlemen; and if you has the slightest ’clination to end your miserable lives, I’ll do the job handsome, and to show my respect for ye, wo’n’t charge ye nothin’”—a riotous roar of laughter followed.
“You need not be afraid, Master Gloomy,” cried the captain, noticing that Zabra trembled as he clung to Oriel Porphyry—“your pretty countenance shan’t be spoilt just yet, at any rate, if you behave yourself; and as for you, Master Porphyry! your life shall be spared, and those of your men who may have survived this conflict, on condition that you follow my directions regarding your conduct; but the slightest show of disobedience will be punished with instant death to yourself and all who belong to you.”
By this time Professor Fortyfolios and Doctor Tourniquet had hurried upon deck, and with much appearance of apprehension had joined the group.
“What is this dispute about, captain?” asked the professor, looking fearfully upon the threatening faces he saw around him. “Let us argue the matter coolly.”
“The dispute is settled, Professor Fortyfolios, and these are my arguments,” said the pirate, pointing to the bloody weapons of his companions. The professor was convinced without inquiry; and the perspiration seemed to break out over his bald head as if he had taken a shower bath.