Dave went back to the cabin with the sad news. Stoodles expressed a curiosity to see the outcast, and the boatswain accompanied him to the hospital.
When later Dave looked for Pat, the Milesian sent word by the boatswain that he was very busy and would see his friend in the morning.
It was about two hours after midnight that Dave awoke with a great start. As he sprang to the floor from his berth Bob Vilett dashed into the stateroom.
"Dave, Dave!" he cried. "It's all up with us."
"Now what----" began Dave. He was interrupted by great tramping on the deck and the sound of pistol-shots.
Dave hurried on his clothes and rushed after Bob to the deck.
A blow from a marlinspike sent Bob flat and a rough stranger grabbed Dave as he appeared.
Captain Broadbeam and his crew were hemmed in near the bow, held at bay by a dozen armed men.
With a sinking heart Dave realized what had happened--the brave little Swallow was in the hands of their enemies: Captain Nesik of the Raven, the Hankers, and all that rascally crew.
CHAPTER XXXI