"We've got our prize!" he chuckled. "I brought the luck after all."
Lieutenant Raymond was not nearly so little moved as he chose to pretend; he had announced his discovery in that careless way half in a spirit of fun.
The news got round among the crew, and however the officer may have felt, there was no indifference there.
The engines of the Uncas began to work even more rapidly, and cartridges were hastily brought up for the rapid-firing guns. Nobody meant to let that steamer get away.
She must have suspected her danger by that time, for the smoke grew blacker. But the crew of the Uncas knew that there were few merchant ships could beat that tug, and they rubbed their hands gleefully.
There is something very aggravating about a race like that. In a rowing race you may break your back if you choose, trying to catch the boat in front; and even in a sailing race you may do something. But when it comes to steam you can only grit your teeth and walk up and down and watch and try not to let anybody see how anxious you are.
In that way half an hour passed away, and mile after mile of the storm-tossed waters.
By that time the hull of the vessel was plainly visible on the horizon; and the Spanish flag was still waving from her stern.
Clif had been gazing every once in a while at the lieutenant with an inquiring look upon his face, but the officer had only shaken his head.
"Not yet," he said. "Wait a little."