"You're mistaken," said Captain Anthony. "There are no prisoners aboard this ship. They're all free men."
The Georgette had a whaleboat on the davits, and the men on the whaleship assumed it was for boarding purposes. Breslin collected the rescued men together, and they determined to resist. While the above colloquy was in progress, Mr. Smith had fitted out the company with cutting spades, whaling guns, and heavy pieces of iron and logs of wood with which to sink the boat if it came alongside.
"I see the men aboard the ship now," yelled Colonel Harvest.
"You're mistaken, sir," returned Captain Anthony. "Get up, men, and show yourselves."
The men walked to the rail. "You can see for yourself they are my crew," said the captain.
"I have telegraphed the American government, and have orders to seize you," was the colonel's next announcement.
Captain Anthony knew this was impossible and made no reply.
"Are you going to heave to?" asked the colonel.
"No, sir," replied Captain Anthony firmly.