Next morning, at daybreak, the hands were turned up to get the ship under weigh. Directly after, Mr McDonald and the other gentlemen came on deck. “We protest against this proceeding, Captain Longfleet,” he exclaimed.
“I told you that if Mr Fraser chooses to absent himself at the time I was prepared to sail, he must take the consequences. It may delay us a whole day if we send to search for him,” answered the captain.
“If it delays us a week we must look for him till he’s found,” exclaimed Mr McDonald, drawing a pistol. “Get the ship under weigh at your peril.”
Bold as Captain Longfleet was, he quailed under the eye of the determined fur trader.
“Hurrah! There’s our friend,” cried Mr McTavish. “We must send a boat for him, and that will settle this dispute, I hope.”
“A boat shall not leave the ship,” cried Captain Longfleet. “I can’t spare the men.”
“I say again, get the ship under weigh at your peril,” said Mr McDonald, stepping a pace towards the captain.
None of the officers or crew attempted to interfere. Those of the latter who were near only stood observing the scene and grinning their satisfaction.
“Are you going to send a boat?” again asked Mr McDonald.
Just then another shot was fired.