CHAPTER XXXII.
THE HOSTAGE.
Despite the alarm caused by the sudden illness of Mrs.Whitney, it was quickly apparent that nothing serious was the matter with her.
She had succumbed temporarily to the intense strain to which she had been subjected, and, under the considerate attention shown her, speedily rallied, declaring herself, within five minutes after the departure of Vesey, as well as ever.
"No one can rejoice more than I," observed Capt.

Asbury; "and, since it is so trifling, you will not misunderstand me when I say that your illness seems to have been providential." Fred and the rest looked inquiringly at the leader.
"The man who was here has gone back with the report of what he saw, and I think my words will cause him to represent the case--well," added the captain, with a smile, "as it appeared at that moment.

That will secure further delay." "But what can it all amount to ?" asked Fred in turn; "they may give you a half-hour or so, but that does not count." "If your estimable mother could manage to--ah--look desperately ill when the messenger returns, why, it might help matters." But the good woman shook her head.

Appreciating the gravity of the situation, she could not be a party to such a deception, even though beneficent results might follow.
"He saw me as I was, and thus he must see me when he comes again.

My conscience would not permit it otherwise." "You are right, Mrs.Whitney, and I beg your pardon," replied the captain.
Meanwhile, Monteith Sterry was thinking hard.