“Richard Hargrave, you entered some time back on board this ship, and deserted. You made no attempt to return of your own accord, and were retaken. You know the punishment, and discipline requires that it should be inflicted,” said the captain in a stern voice.
“I was pressed against my will, sir; and I did my duty in the action with the French frigate which we took. But I wanted to see my mother and blind sister, and I ran, and can’t deny it. Now I’ve been brought back, I’ll try to do my duty. That’s what I’ve got to say, sir.”
“Have you nothing more to say?” asked the captain.
“Yes. When I was set free, I did duty on board the cutter, and helped to take the French lugger. The commander says I saved his life; and afterwards, when I was on board the prize, it was through me that the lugger was brought alongside the cutter, and the Frenchmen, who were rising on her crew, were overpowered.”
“You acted well, then, on both occasions?” said the captain.
“Yes; I did what I thought was my duty,” answered Dick.
“Still, you do not deny that you deserted, and had no intention of returning?” observed Captain Moubray.
“I cannot deny it, sir,” said Dick.
“You know that desertion is always punished by flogging?” said the captain.
“Yes,” answered Dick; “if it were not for the disgrace I shouldn’t mind it.”