“What did you do it for?” I asked, when we were out of hearing.
But Tim only looked sullen and said nothing.
“I have half a notion to report you,” I said, angrily.
“Call away the shore boat!” came Hawkson’s hail, and, before we had a chance to say anything more, we were hustled into her by Mr. Gull, while the negro crew in Mr. Curtis’s gig dropped to the gangway.
Henry came in our boat, with orders to collect his men and bring them aboard, and we had just time to see the trader and his daughter embark with Mr. Curtis, followed by the jests of the gentlemen aboard who handed the young lady down the ladder. I felt very grateful to Miss Allen, and, as her laughter fell upon our ears, Henry turned and gazed astern.
“If I know the governor, there’ll be trouble yet,” said he. “That Yankee ain’t too well liked.”
As we drew near the landing, we noticed a crowd gathering, and an official-looking person in a peculiar uniform or livery came to meet us.
“I have a message for your captain,” said he.
“Is it official?” asked Henry.
“It is, and both imperative and immediate,” said the man.