By the way, how are your sore ribs ?" "My ribs, sir?
Oh, I had forgotten all about them.

But do you think this is the work of pirates, or that the ship has run ashore ?" "I'm not sure, my lad, but we shall soon know." We sat watching the fine well-built barque, as the men pulled lustily at their oars, making the water flash and the distance grow shorter.

Then all at once my companion said shortly-- "Pirates." "Where, where ?" I said eagerly, and my hand went to my dirk.
Mr Brooke laughed, and I saw all the men showing their teeth.
"No, no, my lad," he said.

"I meant this was the work of pirates." "How do you know, sir ?" "Look at those ropes and sheets hanging loose.

They have been cut.