“Nonsense! it’s all on my part, the luck. And we’re comrades, too—think what we’ve gone through together, and who knows what wonderful adventures the near future may have in store for you and me, Robbins?”
I spoke lightly, never once dreaming of the tragedies that lay in wait for us beyond; for who can lift that impenetrable veil by which the future, near or remote, is shrouded?
As it was his wish, and I saw no good reason for insisting on his changing quarters until we had arranged our plans definitely in the morning, I left him there, and once more sought the company of my two guests.
The fresh sea air was invigorating, indeed, as we began to leave the harbor and strike for the open.
“Look there!” exclaimed Gustavus, pointing to the headland we were passing.
There was a sudden flash of light, and presently we heard a deep boom.
“They’re firing upon us!” cried Diana, excited.
“Yes, but there is no danger whatever. Those fellows couldn’t hit a mountain. I heard the ball strike away behind. And in a short time we’ll be entirely out of range.”
“How very exciting to be under fire,” said Diana, as a second shot rolled over the water.
Then the lights went out temporarily aboard, and the firing ceased, since the gunners knew not where to aim.