Philip first found voice.

"No, sir," he cried emphatically; "nothing of the kind! My sister bade me not leave your side until you embarked for France, and her word is my law." "And we stand by Phil," said Vernon, with equal emphasis.
"You are brave boys," the stranger answered, "but you must do to-night as I say.

There is no time to argue here, and if I miss the tide I am undone, for loyal captains are rare birds, I promise you.

There may be not another safe ship this fortnight." "But the enemy," said Philip,--"you will have to pass them.

How can you do that single-handed ?" "Besides," Hugh interpolated, "is it fair to rob us of our sport like this ?" "Yes," said Vernon, supporting him, "it is seldom enough one has any chance of striking a blow for the cause.