They used to sell men and boys to sea-captains to take out to the plantations; and once they were there, they had no chance given them of getting back for years and years." "I don't believe it," said Mike sharply.

"It might have been in the past, but it couldn't be done now." "That's what I've been trying to think," said Vince sadly; "but this wouldn't be done in England.

This is a Frenchman, and the French have colonies abroad, the same as we have.

How do we know where he'll take us ?" Mike started at this, and looked more disturbed.

"I say," he said at last, "you don't really think that, do you, Vince ?" "I wish I didn't," replied the boy sadly; "but it's what has seemed to come to me, since we've been on board here.