She was no longer the bluff; outspoken woman, but appeared trembling and nervous, as she stood resting with one hand upon the rail.
"I can't use it to-day, Nic, boy," she said.

"You try the glass." Nic took it, rested it on the rail, had a long look, and focussed and re-focussed it, without avail.
"I--I can't see with it," he said huskily.

"It is so dim.

The glass is not clear." "Try again," said Lady O'Hara; and Nic looked at her sharply, her voice was so changed.
But he raised the glass once more, and this time brought it steadily to bear upon the boat rowed by the man-of-war's men.
"Now, Nic, tell me what you see," said Lady O'Hara.

"Some soldiers with muskets and bayonets.