Putting a speaking-trumpet, therefore, to his mouth, he roared out:
“Sheer off, or I'll sink you!”
The warning reached the ears for which it was intended, but produced no effect.
The men went on, as boldly as ever, determined not to be baulked of their prey.
However, they were speedily checked, for Captain Hawker turned a swivel-gun upon them and sent a shot through the bottom of their boat, which began presently to fill, and compelled them to look to their own safety.
Being now disembarrassed from his pursuers, the prince got safely on board the sloop, after taking an affectionate leave of his friends.
Their duty being now performed, the two nobles returned to Bamborough Castle without concerning themselves further about their pursuers, whose vociferations proved they were still afloat, and able no doubt, in some way or other, to reach the Home Island.
The sheriff had still to be dealt with, but now that the prince was safe they had little fear of him.
Free from all peril, the sloop, with its important burden, passed tranquilly through the Fairway, and entered the open sea.