"The fact is, sir, I was out fishing a few miles off Dover, when the smack I was in was run down in the dark by a French privateer.

I was hauled on board, and as she was bound for the West Indies I had to make the voyage whether I liked it or not." "How long ago is it that you were run down ?" "About five months," Ralph replied.
"Why, you are not the son of Mrs.Conway of Dover, are you ?" "Yes, I am, sir.

Do you know her, and can you tell me how she is ?" Ralph asked eagerly.
"I believe that she is well, although of course she must have suffered very greatly at your disappearance.

I haven't the pleasure of knowing her personally, but several friends of mine are acquainted with her.

I heard the matter talked about at the time the boat was missing.