"I cannot order him to take you," replied the Captain, "but if he chooses—"
The old man looked at me.
"My granddaughter and I," he began, "are very anxious to reach Ireland. If you would do us the favor—"
I was anxious to get away without more parleying, as the boat was now rocking at the foot of the ladder.
"Our quarters are not so large as those of the frigate," I began.
"I hope that this is not asking too much," went on Mr. Middleton, earnestly, interrupting before I had finished.
I glanced over my shoulder, and I saw standing there the figure of a tall young girl dressed in deep mourning.
I went hot and cold from my heart to my finger-tips. The shock came near to paralyzing me.
"I think I can make you comfortable," I said, "if you will allow me to row off and bring my vessel up while you are getting your luggage."
"Thank you very much," said Mr. Middleton; "we'll set about it."