“You’ll find that you’ll have to pay somewhat heavily for your spree,” remarked the lieutenant.
“Seeing as we’ve not had it,” I heard Tim mutter.
By the time we had got back to the boat she had almost disappeared, and we could only pick up a few of the remaining articles she had contained.
A sharp look-out was kept on the two men, who had evidently intended to desert. No further words were exchanged with them. Both sat with downcast looks, probably well aware of the punishment they had brought on themselves.
On reaching the ship they were handcuffed, and placed under charge of a sentry. Tom and I had to keep our watch, and got but little sleep that night.
As soon as we could we presented our note to Mr Saunders.
“Why, you lads are always wanting to go on shore,” he observed dryly; “one would suppose you were born on shore. However, as you conduct yourselves well, you may have the leave your friend asks for, and may return by the first boat to Kingston.”
“Thank you, sir,” we answered, highly delighted. “And may Sinnet and Chaffey go too?” I asked.
“Were they invited?” he inquired.
“We were desired to bring two more of our mess, and we thought that they could be best spared, sir.”