In this time the longboat was slipping through the water toward the land. When the trysail was set I asked Meehan, who claimed to be a bit of a cook in his way, to boil me a pot of cocoa; I had been up all night, I said, and had breakfasted ill (the girl and I had not breakfasted at all). Travers and Teach went on to the forecastle; I watched them light their pipes, coming to the galley for a light, and returning to the forecastle; they leaned upon the rail in the head, and watched the boat.
“I shall be wanting a word with Teach below shortly,” said I to Call; “does he know the Sydney coast? I’d like him to hit upon a spot for casting this brig away—something to keep in mind. There’s no chart aboard that’s going to help me in that job. Keep a lookout. Don’t leave the wheel, and mind you hallo if I’m wanted.”
I entered the cabin, and found the lady Aurora standing at the table, and the lad Jimmy near the door of my berth.
“The hour has come,” said I, feeling myself grown pale on a sudden, “and the man’s at hand. How is it with you?”
I gently grasped her wrist and looked at her.
“Only be quick, Señor Fielding. It is this waiting and waiting that tries the nerves,” she answered in effect.
“How is it with you, Jimmy?”
“I’m ready, master.”
“Where’s the bag?” said I to the señorita.
“It’s there,” said she, pointing to a locker.