It was evidently one of the men taking "French" leave, and it was the sentry's duty to give the alarm at once.

But "Hod" had other views in this particular case.

Hastily stepping back into the shadows, he laid his gun upon the floor of the dock, and rolled up his sleeves with an air that meant business.

The next moment the absconder dropped from the rope.
As he prepared to slip past the ship a sinewy hand was placed upon his shoulder, and another equally sinewy caught him by the collar.
"Burke, suppose you return aboard ship," said "Hod," quietly.

"You are not going to hit the Bowery this time." The Irish fireman attempted to wrench himself free, then he struck out at "Hod" with all the force of his right arm.