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diff --git a/8992-h/8992-h.htm b/8992-h/8992-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7ee3d02 --- /dev/null +++ b/8992-h/8992-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,3650 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <title> + The Blockade Runners by Jules Verne + </title> + <meta content="MSHTML 6.00.2600.0" name="GENERATOR" /> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + +BODY { + + BACKGROUND: #ffffec; FONT-FAMILY: Bookman Old Style, Times new Roman + +} + +P { + + TEXT-INDENT: 2ex + +} + +H4 { + + TEXT-ALIGN: center + +} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Blockade Runners, by Jules Verne + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Blockade Runners + +Author: Jules Verne + +Release Date: September, 2005 [EBook #8992] +First Posted: August 30, 2003 +Last Updated: December 31, 2018 + + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BLOCKADE RUNNERS *** + + + + +Produced by Norman M. Wolcott + +Linked table of contents provided by David Widger + + + +</pre> + <h4> + The Blockade Runners by Jules Verne + </h4> + <p> + <b>[Redactor's Note:</b> <i>The Blockade Runners</i> (number <b>V008</b> + in the T&M numerical listing of Verne's works) is a translation of <i>Les + forceurs de blocus</i> (1871). <i>The Blockade Runners</i>, a novella, was + included along with <i>A Floating City</i> in the first english and french + editions of this work. This translation, which follows that of Sampson and + Low (UK) and Scribners (US) is by "N. D'Anvers", pseudonymn for Mrs. + Arthur Bell (d. 1933) who also translated other Verne books. It is also + included in the fifteen volume Parke edition of the works of Jules Verne + (1911). There is another translation by Henry Frith which was published by + Routledge (1876). + </p> + <p> + Both of these stories are about ships; <i>Floating City</i> about the + largest ship of the time, the <i>Great Eastern</i>, and <i>Blockade + Runners</i> about one of the fastest, the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + This HTML version was prepared from public domain sources by Norman M. + Wolcott, 2003, nwolcott2@post.harvard.edu .<b>]</b> + </p> + <hr /> + <h4> + The Blockade Runners + </h4> + <h4> + Table of Contents + </h4> + <div> + <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="85%" border="1"> + <tbody> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#I">I</a> + </td> + <td> + THE <i>DOLPHIN</i> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#II">II</a> + </td> + <td> + GETTING UNDER SAIL + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#III">III</a> + </td> + <td> + THINGS ARE NOT WHAT THEY SEEM + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#IV">IV</a> + </td> + <td> + CROCKSTON'S TRICK + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#V">V</a> + </td> + <td> + THE SHOT FROM THE <i>IROQUOIS,</i> AND MISS JENNY'S ARGUMENTS + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#VI">VI</a> + </td> + <td> + SULLIVAN ISLAND CHANNEL + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#VII">VII</a> + </td> + <td> + A SOUTHERN GENERAL + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#VIII">VIII</a> + </td> + <td> + THE ESCAPE + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#IX">IX</a> + </td> + <td> + BETWEEN TWO FIRES + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#X">X</a> + </td> + <td> + ST. MUNGO + </td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <h4> + THE BLOCKADE RUNNERS + </h4> + <p> + <a name="I" id="I"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter I + </h4> + <h4> + THE <i>DOLPHIN</i> + </h4> + <p> + The Clyde was the first river whose waters were lashed into foam by a + steam-boat. It was in 1812 when the steamer called the <i>Comet</i> ran + between Glasgow and Greenock, at the speed of six miles an hour. Since + that time more than a million of steamers or packet-boats have plied this + Scotch river, and the inhabitants of Glasgow must be as familiar as any + people with the wonders of steam navigation. + </p> + <p> + However, on the 3rd of December, 1862, an immense crowd, composed of + shipowners, merchants, manufacturers, workmen, sailors, women, and + children, thronged the muddy streets of Glasgow, all going in the + direction of Kelvin Dock, the large shipbuilding premises belonging to + Messrs. Tod & MacGregor. This last name especially proves that the + descendants of the famous Highlanders have become manufacturers, and that + they have made workmen of all the vassals of the old clan chieftains. + </p> + <p> + Kelvin Dock is situated a few minutes' walk from the town, on the right + bank of the Clyde. Soon the immense timber-yards were thronged with + spectators; not a part of the quay, not a wall of the wharf, not a factory + roof showed an unoccupied place; the river itself was covered with craft + of all descriptions, and the heights of Govan, on the left bank, swarmed + with spectators. + </p> + <p> + There was, however, nothing extraordinary in the event about to take + place; it was nothing but the launching of a ship, and this was an + everyday affair with the people of Glasgow. Had the <i>Dolphin</i>, + then-for that was the name of the ship built by Messrs. Tod & + MacGregor-some special peculiarity? To tell the truth, it had none. + </p> + <p> + It was a large ship, about 1,500 tons, in which everything combined to + obtain superior speed. Her engines, of 500 horse-power, were from the + workshops of Lancefield Forge; they worked two screws, one on either side + the stern-post, completely independent of each other. As for the depth of + water the <i>Dolphin</i> would draw, it must be very inconsiderable; + connoisseurs were not deceived, and they concluded rightly that this ship + was destined for shallow straits. But all these particulars could not in + any way justify the eagerness of the people: taken altogether, the <i>Dolphin</i> + was nothing more or less than an ordinary ship. Would her launching + present some mechanical difficulty to be overcome? Not any more than + usual. The Clyde had received many a ship of heavier tonnage, and the + launching of the <i>Dolphin</i> would take place in the usual manner. + </p> + <p> + In fact, when the water was calm, the moment the ebb-tide set in, the + workmen began to operate. Their mallets kept perfect time falling on the + wedges meant to raise the ship's keel: soon a shudder ran through the + whole of her massive structure; although she had only been slightly + raised, one could see that she shook, and then gradually began to glide + down the well greased wedges, and in a few moments she plunged into the + Clyde. Her stern struck the muddy bed of the river, then she raised + herself on the top of a gigantic wave, and, carried forward by her start, + would have been dashed against the quay of the Govan timber-yards, if her + anchors had not restrained her. + </p> + <p> + The launch had been perfectly successful, the <i>Dolphin</i> swayed + quietly on the waters of the Clyde, all the spectators clapped their hands + when she took possession of her natural element, and loud hurrahs arose + from either bank. + </p> + <p> + But wherefore these cries and this applause? Undoubtedly the most eager of + the spectators would have been at a loss to explain the reason of his + enthusiasm. What was the cause, then, of the lively interest excited by + this ship? Simply the mystery which shrouded her destination; it was not + known to what kind of commerce she was to be appropriated, and in + questioning different groups the diversity of opinion on this important + subject was indeed astonishing. + </p> + <p> + However, the best informed, at least those who pretended to be so, agreed + in saying that the steamer was going to take part in the terrible war + which was then ravaging the United States of America, but more than this + they did not know, and whether the <i>Dolphin</i> was a privateer, a + transport ship, or an addition to the Federal marine was what no one could + tell. + </p> + <p> + "Hurrah!" cried one, affirming that the <i>Dolphin</i> had been built for + the Southern States. + </p> + <p> + "Hip! hip! hip!" cried another, swearing that never had a faster boat + crossed to the American coasts. + </p> + <p> + Thus its destination was unknown, and in order to obtain any reliable + information one must be an intimate friend, or, at any rate, an + acquaintance of Vincent Playfair & Co., of Glasgow. + </p> + <p> + A rich, powerful, intelligent house of business was that of Vincent + Playfair & Co., in a social sense, an old and honourable family, + descended from those tobacco lords who built the finest quarters of the + town. These clever merchants, by an act of the Union, had founded the + first Glasgow warehouse for dealing in tobacco from Virginia and Maryland. + Immense fortunes were realised; mills and foundries sprang up in all + parts, and in a few years the prosperity of the city attained its height. + </p> + <p> + The house of Playfair remained faithful to the enterprising spirit of its + ancestors, it entered into the most daring schemes, and maintained the + honour of English commerce. The principal, Vincent Playfair, a man of + fifty, with a temperament essentially practical and decided, although + somewhat daring, was a genuine shipowner. Nothing affected him beyond + commercial questions, not even the political side of the transactions, + otherwise he was a perfectly loyal and honest man. + </p> + <p> + However, he could not lay claim to the idea of building and fitting up the + <i>Dolphin</i>; she belonged to his nephew, James Playfair, a fine young + man of thirty, the boldest skipper of the British merchant marine. + </p> + <p> + It was one day at the Tontine coffee-room under the arcades of the town + hall, that James Playfair, after having impatiently scanned the American + journal, disclosed to his uncle an adventurous scheme. + </p> + <p> + "Uncle Vincent," said he, coming to the point at once, "there are two + millions of pounds to be gained in less than a month." + </p> + <p> + "And what to risk?" asked Uncle Vincent. + </p> + <p> + "A ship and a cargo." + </p> + <p> + "Nothing else?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing, except the crew and the captain, and that does not reckon for + much." + </p> + <p> + "Let us see," said Uncle Vincent. + </p> + <p> + "It is all seen," replied James Playfair. "You have read the <i>Tribune</i>, + the <i>New York Herald, The Times</i>, the <i>Richmond Inquirer</i>, the + <i>American Review</i>?" + </p> + <p> + "Scores of times, nephew." + </p> + <p> + "You believe, like me, that the war of the United States will last a long + time still?" + </p> + <p> + "A very long time." + </p> + <p> + "You know how much this struggle will affect the interests of England, and + especially those of Glasgow?" + </p> + <p> + "And more especially still the house of Playfair & Co.," replied Uncle + Vincent. + </p> + <p> + "Theirs especially," added the young Captain. + </p> + <p> + "I worry myself about it every day, James, and I cannot think without + terror of the commercial disasters which this war may produce; not but + that the house of Playfair is firmly established, nephew; at the same time + it has correspondents which may fail. Ah! those Americans, slave-holders + or Abolitionists, I have no faith in them!" + </p> + <p> + If Vincent Playfair was wrong in thus speaking with respect to the great + principles of humanity, always and everywhere superior to personal + interests, he was, nevertheless, right from a commercial point of view. + The most important material was failing at Glasgow, the cotton famine + became every day more threatening, thousands of workmen were reduced to + living upon public charity. Glasgow possessed 25,000 looms, by which + 625,000 yards of cotton were spun daily; that is to say, fifty millions of + pounds yearly. From these numbers it may be guessed what disturbances were + caused in the commercial part of the town when the raw material failed + altogether. Failures were hourly taking place, the manufactories were + closed, and the workmen were dying of starvation. + </p> + <p> + It was the sight of this great misery which had put the idea of his bold + enterprise into James Playfair's head. + </p> + <p> + "I will go for cotton, and will get it, cost what it may." + </p> + <p> + But, as he also was a merchant as well as his uncle Vincent, he resolved + to carry out his plan by way of exchange, and to make his proposition + under the guise of a commercial enterprise. + </p> + <p> + "Uncle Vincent," said he, "this is my idea." + </p> + <p> + "Well, James?" + </p> + <p> + "It is simply this: we will have a ship built of superior sailing + qualities and great bulk." + </p> + <p> + "That is quite possible." + </p> + <p> + "We will load her with ammunition of war, provisions, and clothes." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "I will take the command of this steamer, I will defy all the ships of the + Federal marine for speed, and I will run the blockade of one of the + southern ports." + </p> + <p> + "You must make a good bargain for your cargo with the Confederates, who + will be in need of it," said his uncle. + </p> + <p> + "And I shall return laden with cotton." + </p> + <p> + "Which they will give you for nothing." + </p> + <p> + "As you say, Uncle. Will it answer?" + </p> + <p> + "It will; but shall you be able to get there?" + </p> + <p> + "I shall, if I have a good ship." + </p> + <p> + "One can be made on purpose. But the crew?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I will find them. I do not want many men; enough to work with, that + is all. It is not a question of fighting with the Federals, but distancing + them." + </p> + <p> + "They shall be distanced," said Uncle Vincent, in a peremptory tone; "but + now, tell me, James, to what port of the American coast do you think of + going?" + </p> + <p> + "Up to now, Uncle, ships have run the blockade of New Orleans, Wilmington, + and Savannah, but I think of going straight to Charleston; no English boat + has yet been able to penetrate into the harbour, except the <i>Bermuda</i>. + I will do like her, and, if my ship draws but very little water, I shall + be able to go where the Federalists will not be able to follow." + </p> + <p> + "The fact is," said Uncle Vincent, "Charleston is overwhelmed with cotton; + they are even burning it to get rid of it." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," replied James; "besides, the town is almost invested; Beauregard is + running short of provisions, and he will pay me a golden price for my + cargo!" + </p> + <p> + "Well, nephew, and when will you start?" + </p> + <p> + "In six months; I must have the long winter nights to aid me." + </p> + <p> + "It shall be as you wish, nephew." + </p> + <p> + "It is settled, then, Uncle?" + </p> + <p> + "Settled!" + </p> + <p> + "Shall it be kept quiet?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; better so." + </p> + <p> + And this is how it was that five months later the steamer <i>Dolphin</i> + was launched from the Kelvin Dock timber-yards, and no one knew her real + destination. + </p> + <p> + <a name="II" id="II"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter II + </h4> + <h4> + GETTING UNDER SAIL + </h4> + <p> + The <i>Dolphin</i> was rapidly equipped, her rigging was ready, and there + was nothing to do but fit her up. She carried three schooner-masts, an + almost useless luxury; in fact, the <i>Dolphin</i> did not rely on the + wind to escape the Federalists, but rather on her powerful engines. + </p> + <p> + Towards the end of December a trial of the steamer was made in the gulf of + the Clyde. Which was the more satisfied, builder or captain, it is + impossible to say. The new steamer shot along wonderfully, and the patent + log showed a speed of seventeen miles an hour, a speed which as yet no + English, French, or American boat had ever obtained. The <i>Dolphin</i> + would certainly have gained by several lengths in a sailing match with the + fastest opponent. + </p> + <p> + The loading was begun on the 25th of December, the steamer having ranged + along the steamboat-quay a little below Glasgow Bridge, the last which + stretches across the Clyde before its mouth. Here the wharfs were heaped + with a heavy cargo of clothes, ammunition, and provisions which were + rapidly carried to the hold of the <i>Dolphin</i>. The nature of this + cargo betrayed the mysterious destination of the ship, and the house of + Playfair could no longer keep it secret; besides, the <i>Dolphin</i> must + not be long before she started. No American cruiser had been signalled in + English waters; and, then, when the question of getting the crew came, how + was it possible to keep silent any longer? They could not embark them, + even, without informing the men whither they were bound, for, after all, + it was a matter of life and death, and when one risks one's life, at least + it is satisfactory to know how and wherefore. + </p> + <p> + However, this prospect hindered no one; the pay was good, and everyone had + a share in the speculation, so that a great number of the finest sailors + soon presented themselves. James Playfair was only embarrassed which to + choose, but he chose well, and in twenty-four hours his muster-roll bore + the names of thirty sailors who would have done honour to her Majesty's + yacht. + </p> + <p> + The departure was settled for the 3rd of January; on the 31st of December + the <i>Dolphin</i> was ready, her hold full of ammunition and provisions, + and nothing was keeping her now. + </p> + <p> + The skipper went on board on the 2nd of January, and was giving a last + look round his ship with a captain's eye, when a man presented himself at + the fore part of the <i>Dolphin</i>, and asked to speak with the Captain. + One of the sailors led him on to the poop. + </p> + <p> + He was a strong, hearty-looking fellow, with broad shoulders and ruddy + face, the simple expression of which ill-concealed a depth of wit and + mirth. He did not seem to be accustomed to a seafaring life, and looked + about him with the air of a man little used to being on board a ship; + however, he assumed the manner of a Jack-tar, looking up at the rigging of + the <i>Dolphin</i>, and waddling in true sailor fashion. + </p> + <p> + When he had reached the Captain, he looked fixedly at him, and said, + "Captain James Playfair?" + </p> + <p> + "The same," replied the skipper. "What do you want with me?" + </p> + <p> + "To join your ship." + </p> + <p> + "There is no room; the crew is already complete." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, one man, more or less, will not be in the way; quite the contrary." + </p> + <p> + "You think so?" said James Playfair, giving a sidelong glance at his + questioner. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure of it," replied the sailor. + </p> + <p> + "But who are you?" asked the Captain. + </p> + <p> + "A rough sailor, with two strong arms, which, I can tell you, are not to + be despised on board a ship, and which I now have the honour of putting at + your service." + </p> + <p> + "But there are other ships besides the <i>Dolphin</i>, and other captains + besides James Playfair. Why do you come here?" + </p> + <p> + "Because it is on board the <i>Dolphin</i> that I wish to serve, and under + the orders of Captain James Playfair." + </p> + <p> + "I do not want you." + </p> + <p> + "There is always need of a strong man, and if to prove my strength you + will try me with three or four of the strongest fellows of your crew, I am + ready." + </p> + <p> + "That will do," replied James Playfair. "And what is your name?" + </p> + <p> + "Crockston, at your service." + </p> + <p> + The Captain made a few steps backwards in order to get a better view of + the giant who presented himself in this odd fashion. The height, the + build, and the look of the sailor did not deny his pretensions to + strength. + </p> + <p> + "Where have you sailed?" asked Playfair of him. + </p> + <p> + "A little everywhere." + </p> + <p> + "And do you know where the <i>Dolphin</i> is bound for?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; and that is what tempts me." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, well! I have no mind to let a fellow of your stamp escape me. Go and + find the first mate, and get him to enrol you." + </p> + <p> + Having said this, the Captain expected to see the man turn on his heels + and run to the bows, but he was mistaken. Crockston did not stir. + </p> + <p> + "Well! did you hear me?" asked the Captain. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but it is not all," replied the sailor. "I have something else to + ask you." + </p> + <p> + "Ah! You are wasting my time," replied James, sharply; "I have not a + moment to lose in talking." + </p> + <p> + "I shall not keep you long," replied Crockston; "two words more and that + is all; I was going to tell you that I have a nephew." + </p> + <p> + "He has a fine uncle, then," interrupted James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "Hah! Hah!" laughed Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "Have you finished?" asked the Captain, very impatiently. + </p> + <p> + "Well, this is what I have to say, when one takes the uncle, the nephew + comes into the bargain." + </p> + <p> + "Ah! indeed!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, that is the custom, the one does not go without the other." + </p> + <p> + "And what is this nephew of yours?" + </p> + <p> + "A lad of fifteen whom I am going to train to the sea; he is willing to + learn, and will make a fine sailor some day." + </p> + <p> + "How now, Master Crockston," cried James Playfair; "do you think the <i>Dolphin</i> + is a training-school for cabin-boys?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't let us speak ill of cabin-boys: there was one of them who became + Admiral Nelson, and another Admiral Franklin." + </p> + <p> + "Upon my honour, friend," replied James Playfair, "you have a way of + speaking which I like; bring your nephew, but if I don't find the uncle + the hearty fellow he pretends to be, he will have some business with me. + Go, and be back in an hour." + </p> + <p> + Crockston did not want to be told twice; he bowed awkwardly to the Captain + of the <i>Dolphin</i>, and went on to the quay. An hour afterwards he came + on board with his nephew, a boy of fourteen or fifteen, rather delicate + and weakly looking, with a timid and astonished air, which showed that he + did not possess his uncle's self-possession and vigorous corporeal + qualities. Crockston was even obliged to encourage him by such words as + these: + </p> + <p> + "Come," said he, "don't be frightened, they are not going to eat us, + besides, there is yet time to return." + </p> + <p> + "No, no," replied the young man, "and may God protect us!" + </p> + <p> + The same day the sailor Crockston and his nephew were inscribed in the + muster-roll of the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, at five o'clock, the fires of the steamer were well fed, + the deck trembled under the vibrations of the boiler, and the steam rushed + hissing through the escape-pipes. The hour of departure had arrived. + </p> + <p> + A considerable crowd, in spite of the early hour, flocked on the quays and + on Glasgow Bridge; they had come to salute the bold steamer for the last + time. Vincent Playfair was there to say good-bye to Captain James, but he + conducted himself on this occasion like a Roman of the good old times. His + was a heroic countenance, and the two loud kisses with which he gratified + his nephew were the indication of a strong mind. + </p> + <p> + "Go, James," said he to the young Captain, "go quickly, and come back + quicker still; above all, don't abuse your position. Sell at a good price, + make a good bargain, and you will have your uncle's esteem." + </p> + <p> + On this recommendation, borrowed from the manual of the perfect merchant, + the uncle and nephew separated, and all the visitors left the boat. + </p> + <p> + At this moment Crockston and John Stiggs stood together on the forecastle, + while the former remarked to his nephew, "This is well, this is well; + before two o'clock we shall be at sea, and I have a good opinion of a + voyage which begins like this." + </p> + <p> + For reply the novice pressed Crockston's hand. + </p> + <p> + James Playfair then gave the orders for departure. + </p> + <p> + "Have we pressure on?" he asked of his mate. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Captain," replied Mr. Mathew. + </p> + <p> + "Well, then, weigh anchor." + </p> + <p> + This was immediately done, and the screws began to move. The <i>Dolphin</i> + trembled, passed between the ships in the port, and soon disappeared from + the sight of the people, who shouted their last hurrahs. + </p> + <p> + The descent of the Clyde was easily accomplished, one might almost say + that this river had been made by the hand of man, and even by the hand of + a master. For sixty years, thanks to the dredges and constant dragging, it + has gained fifteen feet in depth, and its breadth has been tripled between + the quays and the town. Soon the forests of masts and chimneys were lost + in the smoke and fog; the noise of the foundry hammers and the hatchets of + the timber-yards grew fainter in the distance. After the village of + Partick had been passed the factories gave way to country houses and + villas. The <i>Dolphin</i>, slackening her speed, sailed between the dykes + which carry the river above the shores, and often through a very narrow + channel, which, however, is only a small inconvenience for a navigable + river, for, after all, depth is of more importance than width. The + steamer, guided by one of those excellent pilots from the Irish sea, + passed without hesitation between floating buoys, stone columns, and <i>biggings</i>, + surmounted with lighthouses, which mark the entrance to the channel. + Beyond the town of Renfrew, at the foot of Kilpatrick hills, the Clyde + grew wider. Then came Bouling Bay, at the end of which opens the mouth of + the canal which joints Edinburgh to Glasgow. Lastly, at the height of four + hundred feet from the ground, was seen the outline of Dumbarton Castle, + almost indiscernible through the mists, and soon the harbour-boats of + Glasgow were rocked on the waves which the <i>Dolphin</i> caused. Some + miles farther on Greenock, the birthplace of James Watt, was passed: the + <i>Dolphin</i> now found herself at the mouth of the Clyde, and at the + entrance of the gulf by which it empties its waters into the Northern + Ocean. Here the first undulations of the sea were felt, and the steamer + ranged along the picturesque coast of the Isle of Arran. At last the + promontory of Cantyre, which runs out into the channel, was doubled; the + Isle of Rattelin was hailed, the pilot returned by a shore-boat to his + cutter, which was cruising in the open sea; the <i>Dolphin</i>, returning + to her Captain's authority, took a less frequented route round the north + of Ireland, and soon, having lost sight of the last European land, found + herself in the open ocean. + </p> + <p> + <a name="III" id="III"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter III + </h4> + <h4> + THINGS ARE NOT WHAT THEY SEEM + </h4> + <p> + The <i>Dolphin</i> had a good crew, not fighting men, or boarding sailors, + but good working men, and that was all she wanted. These brave, determined + fellows were all, more or less, merchants; they sought a fortune rather + than glory; they had no flag to display, no colours to defend with cannon; + in fact, all the artillery on board consisted of two small swivel + signal-guns. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Dolphin</i> shot bravely across the water, and fulfilled the utmost + expectations of both builder and captain. Soon she passed the limit of + British seas; there was not a ship in sight; the great ocean route was + free; besides, no ship of the Federal marine would have a right to attack + her beneath the English flag. Followed she might be, and prevented from + forcing the blockade, and precisely for this reason had James Playfair + sacrificed everything to the speed of his ship, in order not to be + pursued. + </p> + <p> + Howbeit a careful watch was kept on board, and, in spite of the extreme + cold, a man was always in the rigging ready to signal the smallest sail + that appeared on the horizon. When evening came, Captain James gave the + most precise orders to Mr. Mathew. + </p> + <p> + "Don't leave the man on watch too long in the rigging; the cold may seize + him, and in that case it is impossible to keep a good look-out; change + your men often." + </p> + <p> + "I understand, Captain," replied Mr. Mathew. + </p> + <p> + "Try Crockston for that work; the fellow pretends to have excellent sight; + it must be put to trial; put him on the morning watch, he will have the + morning mists to see through. If anything particular happens call me." + </p> + <p> + This said, James Playfair went to his cabin. Mr. Mathew called Crockston, + and told him the Captain's orders. + </p> + <p> + "To-morrow, at six o'clock," said he, "you are to relieve watch of the + main masthead." + </p> + <p> + For reply, Crockston gave a decided grunt, but Mr. Mathew had hardly + turned his back when the sailor muttered some incomprehensible words, and + then cried: + </p> + <p> + "What on earth did he say about the mainmast?" + </p> + <p> + At this moment his nephew, John Stiggs, joined him on the forecastle. + </p> + <p> + "Well, my good Crockston," said he. + </p> + <p> + "It's all right, all right," said the seaman, with a forced smile; "there + is only one thing, this wretched boat shakes herself like a dog coming out + of the water, and it makes my head confused." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Crockston, and it is for my sake." + </p> + <p> + "For you and him," replied Crockston, "but not a word about that, John. + Trust in God, and He will not forsake you." + </p> + <p> + So saying, John Stiggs and Crockston went to the sailor's berth, but the + sailor did not lie down before he had seen the young novice comfortably + settled in the narrow cabin which he had got for him. + </p> + <p> + The next day, at six o'clock in the morning, Crockston got up to go to his + place; he went on deck, where the first officer ordered him to go up into + the rigging, and keep good watch. + </p> + <p> + At these words the sailor seemed undecided what to do; then, making up his + mind, he went towards the bows of the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + "Well, where are you off to now?" cried Mr. Mathew. + </p> + <p> + "Where you sent me," answered Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "I told you to go to the mainmast." + </p> + <p> + "And I am going there," replied the sailor, in an ununconcerned tone, + continuing his way to the poop. + </p> + <p> + "Are you a fool?" cried Mr. Mathew, impatiently; "you are looking for the + bars of the main on the foremast. You are like a cockney, who doesn't know + how to twist a cat-o'-nine-tails, or make a splice. On board what ship can + you have been, man? The mainmast, stupid, the mainmast!" + </p> + <p> + The sailors who had run up to hear what was going on burst out laughing + when they saw Crockston's disconcerted look, as he went back to the + forecastle. + </p> + <p> + "So," said he, looking up the mast, the top of which was quite invisible + through the morning mists; "so, am I to climb up here?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," replied Mr. Mathew, "and hurry yourself! By St. Patrick, a Federal + ship would have time to get her bowsprit fast in our rigging before that + lazy fellow could get to his post. Will you go up?" + </p> + <p> + Without a word, Crockston got on the bulwarks with some difficulty; then + he began to climb the rigging with most visible awkwardness, like a man + who did not know how to make use of his hands or feet. When he had reached + the topgallant, instead of springing lightly on to it, he remained + motionless, clinging to the ropes, as if he had been seized with + giddiness. Mr. Mathew, irritated by his stupidity, ordered him to come + down immediately. + </p> + <p> + "That fellow there," said he to the boatswain, "has never been a sailor in + his life. Johnston, just go and see what he has in his bundle." + </p> + <p> + The boatswain made haste to the sailor's berth. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Crockston was with difficulty coming down again, but, his + foot having slipped, he slid down the rope he had hold of, and fell + heavily on the deck. + </p> + <p> + "Clumsy blockhead! land-lubber!" cried Mr. Mathew, by way of consolation. + "What did you come to do on board the <i>Dolphin!</i> Ah! you entered as + an able seaman, and you cannot even distinguish the main from the + foremast! I shall have a little talk with you." + </p> + <p> + Crockston made no attempt to speak; he bent his back like a man resigned + to anything he might have to bear; just then the boatswain returned. + </p> + <p> + "This," said he to the first officer, "is all that I have found; a + suspicious portfolio with letters." + </p> + <p> + "Give them here," said Mr. Mathew. "Letters with Federal stamps! Mr. + Halliburtt, of Boston! An Abolitionist! a Federalist! Wretch! you are + nothing but a traitor, and have sneaked on board to betray us! Never mind, + you will be paid for your trouble with the cat-o'-nine-tails! Boatswain, + call the Captain, and you others just keep an eye on that rogue there." + </p> + <p> + Crockston received these compliments with a hideous grimace, but he did + not open his lips. They had fastened him to the capstan, and he could move + neither hand nor foot. + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later James Playfair came out of his cabin and went to the + forecastle, where Mr. Mathew immediately acquainted him with the details + of the case. + </p> + <p> + "What have you to say?" asked James Playfair, scarcely able to restrain + his anger. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing," replied Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "And what did you come on board my ship for?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing." + </p> + <p> + "And what do you expect from me now?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing." + </p> + <p> + "Who are you? An American, as letters seem to prove?" Crockston did not + answer. + </p> + <p> + "Boatswain," said James Playfair, "fifty lashes with the cat-o'-nine-tails + to loosen his tongue. Will that be enough, Crockston?" + </p> + <p> + "It will remain to be seen," replied John Stiggs' uncle without moving a + muscle. + </p> + <p> + "Now then, come along, men," said the boatswain. + </p> + <p> + At this order, two strong sailors stripped Crockston of his woollen + jersey; they had already seized the formidable weapon, and laid it across + the prisoner's shoulders, when the novice, John Stiggs, pale and agitated, + hurried on deck. + </p> + <p> + "Captain!" exclaimed he. + </p> + <p> + "Ah! the nephew!" remarked James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "Captain," repeated the novice, with a violent effort to steady his voice, + "I will tell you what Crockston does not want to say. I will hide it no + longer; yes, he is American, and so am I; we are both enemies of the + slave-holders, but not traitors come on board to betray the <i>Dolphin</i> + into the hands of the Federalists." + </p> + <p> + "What did you come to do, then?" asked the Captain, in a severe tone, + examining the novice attentively. The latter hesitated a few seconds + before replying, then he said, "Captain, I should like to speak to you in + private." + </p> + <p> + Whilst John Stiggs made this request, James Playfair did not cease to look + carefully at him; the sweet young face of the novice, his peculiarly + gentle voice, the delicacy and whiteness of his hands, hardly disguised by + paint, the large eyes, the animation of which could not bide their + tenderness-all this together gave rise to a certain suspicion in the + Captain's mind. When John Stiggs had made his request, Playfair glanced + fixedly at Crockston, who shrugged his shoulders; then he fastened a + questioning look on the novice, which the latter could not withstand, and + said simply to him, "Come." + </p> + <p> + John Stiggs followed the Captain on to the poop, and then James Playfair, + opening the door of his cabin, said to the novice, whose cheeks were pale + with emotion, "Be so kind as to walk in, miss." + </p> + <p> + John, thus addressed, blushed violently, and two tears rolled + involuntarily down his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + "Don't be alarmed, miss," said James Playfair, in a gentle voice, "but be + so good as to tell me how I come to have the honour of having you on + board?" + </p> + <p> + The young girl hesitated a moment, then, reassured by the Captain's look, + she made up her mind to speak. + </p> + <p> + "Sir," said she, "I wanted to join my father at Charleston; the town is + besieged by land and blockaded by sea. I knew not how to get there, when I + heard that the <i>Dolphin</i> meant to force the blockade. I came on board + your ship, and I beg you to forgive me if I acted without your consent, + which you would have refused me." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly," said James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "I did well, then, not to ask you," resumed the young girl, with a firmer + voice. + </p> + <p> + The Captain crossed his arms, walked round his cabin, and then came back. + </p> + <p> + "What is your name?" said he. + </p> + <p> + "Jenny Halliburtt." + </p> + <p> + "Your father, if I remember rightly the address on the letters, is he not + from Boston?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "And a Northerner is thus in a southern town in the thickest of the war?" + </p> + <p> + "My father is a prisoner; he was at Charleston when the first shot of the + Civil War was fired, and the troops of the Union driven from Fort Sumter + by the Confederates. My father's opinions exposed him to the hatred of the + slavist part, and by the order of General Beauregard he was imprisoned. I + was then in England, living with a relation who has just died, and left + alone, with no help but that of Crockston, our faithful servant, I wished + to go to my father and share his prison with him." + </p> + <p> + "What was Mr. Halliburtt, then?" asked James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "A loyal and brave journalist," replied Jenny proudly, "one of the noblest + editors of the <i>Tribune</i>, and the one who was the boldest in + defending the cause of the negroes." + </p> + <p> + "An Abolitionist," cried the Captain angrily; "one of those men who, under + the vain pretence of abolishing slavery, have deluged their country with + blood and ruin." + </p> + <p> + "Sir!" replied Jenny Halliburtt, growing pale, "you are insulting my + father; you must not forget that I stand alone to defend him." + </p> + <p> + The young Captain blushed scarlet; anger mingled with shame struggled in + his breast; perhaps he would have answered the young girl, but he + succeeded in restraining himself, and, opening the door of the cabin, he + called "Boatswain!" + </p> + <p> + The boatswain came to him directly. + </p> + <p> + "This cabin will henceforward belong to Miss Jenny Halliburtt. Have a cot + made ready for me at the end of the poop; that's all I want." + </p> + <p> + The boatswain looked with a stupefied stare at the young novice addressed + in a feminine name, but on a sign from James Playfair he went out. + </p> + <p> + "And now, miss, you are at home," said the young Captain of the <i>Dolphin</i>. + Then he retired. + </p> + <p> + <a name="IV" id="IV"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter IV + </h4> + <h4> + CROCKSTON'S TRICK + </h4> + <p> + It was not long before the whole crew knew Miss Halliburtt's story, which + Crockston was no longer hindered from telling. By the Captain's orders he + was released from the capstan, and the cat-o'-nine-tails returned to its + Place. + </p> + <p> + "A pretty animal," said Crockston, "especially when it shows its velvety + paws." + </p> + <p> + As soon as he was free, he went down to the sailors' berths, found a small + portmanteau, and carried it to Miss Jenny; the young girl was now able to + resume her feminine attire, but she remained in her cabin, and did not + again appear on deck. + </p> + <p> + As for Crockston, it was well and duly agreed that, as he was no more a + sailor than a horse-guard, he should be exempt from all duty on board. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile the <i>Dolphin</i>, with her twin screws cutting the + waves, sped rapidly across the Atlantic, and there was nothing now to do + but keep a strict look-out. The day following the discovery of Miss + Jenny's identity, James Playfair paced the deck at the poop with a rapid + step; he had made no attempt to see the young girl and resume the + conversation of the day before. + </p> + <p> + Whilst he was walking to and fro, Crockston passed him several times, + looking at him askant with a satisfied grin. He evidently wanted to speak + to the Captain, and at last his persistent manner attracted the attention + of the latter, who said to him, somewhat impatiently: + </p> + <p> + "How now, what do you want? You are turning round me like a swimmer round + a buoy: when are you going to leave off?" + </p> + <p> + "Excuse me, Captain," answered Crockston, winking, "I wanted to speak to + you." + </p> + <p> + "Speak, then." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, it is nothing very much. I only wanted to tell you frankly that you + are a good fellow at bottom." + </p> + <p> + "Why at bottom?" + </p> + <p> + "At bottom and surface also." + </p> + <p> + "I don't want your compliments." + </p> + <p> + "I am not complimenting you. I shall wait to do that when you have gone to + the end." + </p> + <p> + "To what end?" + </p> + <p> + "To the end of your task." + </p> + <p> + "Ah! I have a task to fulfil?" + </p> + <p> + "Decidedly, you have taken the young girl and myself on board; good! You + have given up your cabin to Miss Halliburtt; good! You released me from + the cat-o'-nine-tails; nothing could be better. You are going to take us + straight to Charleston; that's delightful, but it is not all." + </p> + <p> + "How not all?" cried James Playfair, amazed at Crockston's boldness. + </p> + <p> + "No, certainly not," replied the latter, with a knowing look, "the father + is prisoner there." + </p> + <p> + "Well, what about that?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, the father must be rescued." + </p> + <p> + "Rescue Miss Halliburtt's father?" + </p> + <p> + "Most certainly, and it is worth risking something for such a noble man + and courageous citizen as he." + </p> + <p> + "Master Crockston," said James Playfair, frowning, "I am not in the humour + for your jokes, so have a care what you say." + </p> + <p> + "You misunderstand me, Captain," said the American. "I am not joking in + the least, but speaking quite seriously. What I have proposed may at first + seem very absurd to you; when you have thought it over, you will see that + you cannot do otherwise." + </p> + <p> + "What, do you mean that I must deliver Mr. Halliburtt?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so. You can demand his release of General Beauregard, who will not + refuse you." + </p> + <p> + "But if he does refuse me?" + </p> + <p> + "In that case," replied Crockston, in a deliberate tone, "we must use + stronger measures, and carry off the prisoner by force." + </p> + <p> + "So," cried James Playfair, who was beginning to get angry, "so, not + content with passing through the Federal fleets and forcing the blockade + of Charleston, I must run out to sea again from under the cannon of the + forts, and this to deliver a gentleman I know nothing of, one of those + Abolitionists whom I detest, one of those journalists who shed ink instead + of their blood!" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, it is but a cannon-shot more or less!" added Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "Master Crockston," said James Playfair, "mind what I say: if ever you + mention this affair again to me, I will send you to the hold for the rest + of the passage, to teach you manners." + </p> + <p> + Thus saying, the Captain dismissed the American, who went off murmuring, + "Ah, well, I am not altogether displeased with this conversation: at any + rate, the affair is broached; it will do, it will do!" + </p> + <p> + James Playfair had hardly meant it when he said an Abolitionist whom I + detest; he did not in the least side with the Federals, but he did not + wish to admit that the question of slavery was the predominant reason for + the civil war of the United States, in spite of President Lincoln's formal + declaration. Did he, then, think that the Southern States, eight out of + thirty-six, were right in separating when they had been voluntarily + united? Not so; he detested the Northerners, and that was all; he detested + them as brothers separated from the common family-true Englishmen-who had + thought it right to do what he, James Playfair, disapproved of with regard + to the United States: these were the political opinions of the Captain of + the <i>Dolphin</i>. But, more than this, the American war interfered with + him personally, and he had a grudge against those who had caused this war; + one can understand, then, how he would receive a proposition to deliver an + Abolitionist, thus bringing down on him the Confederates, with whom he + pretended to do business. + </p> + <p> + However, Crockston's insinuation did not fail to disturb him; he cast the + thought from him, but it returned unceasingly to his mind, and when Miss + Jenny came on deck the next day for a few minutes, he dared not look her + in the face. + </p> + <p> + And really it was a great pity, for this young girl, with the fair hair + and sweet, intelligent face, deserved to be looked at by a young man of + thirty. But James felt embarrassed in her presence; he felt that this + charming creature who had been educated in the school of misfortune + possessed a strong and generous soul; he understood that his silence + towards her inferred a refusal to acquiesce in her dearest wishes; + besides, Miss Jenny never looked out for James Playfair, neither did she + avoid him. Thus for the first few days they spoke little or not at all to + each other. Miss Halliburtt scarcely ever left her cabin, and it is + certain she would never have addressed herself to the Captain of the <i>Dolphin</i> + if it had not been for Crockston's strategy, which brought both parties + together. + </p> + <p> + The worthy American was a faithful servant of the Halliburtt family; he + had been brought up in his master's house, and his devotion knew no + bounds. His good sense equalled his courage and energy, and, as has been + seen, he had a way of looking things straight in the face. He was very + seldom discouraged, and could generally find a way out of the most + intricate dangers with a wonderful skill. + </p> + <p> + This honest fellow had taken it into his head to deliver Mr. Halliburtt, + to employ the Captain's ship, and the Captain himself for this purpose, + and to return with him to England. Such was his intention, so long as the + young girl had no other object than to rejoin her father and share his + captivity. It was this Crockston tried to make the Captain understand, as + we have seen, but the enemy had not yet surrendered; on the contrary. + </p> + <p> + "Now," said he, "it is absolutely necessary that Miss Jenny and the + Captain come to an understanding; if they are going to be sulky like this + all the passage we shall get nothing done. They must speak, discuss; let + them dispute even, so long as they talk, and I'll be hanged if during + their conversation James Playfair does not propose himself what he refused + me to-day." + </p> + <p> + But when Crockston saw that the young girl and the young man avoided each + other, he began to be perplexed. + </p> + <p> + "We must look sharp," said he to himself, and the morning of the fourth + day he entered Miss Halliburtt's cabin, rubbing his hands with an air of + perfect satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + "Good news!" cried he, "good news! You will never guess what the Captain + has proposed to me. A very noble young man he is. Now try." + </p> + <p> + "Ah!" replied Jenny, whose heart beat violently, "has he proposed to-" + </p> + <p> + "To deliver Mr. Halliburtt, to carry him off from the Confederates, and + bring him to England." + </p> + <p> + "Is it true?" cried Jenny. + </p> + <p> + "It is as I say, miss. What a good-hearted man this James Playfair is! + These English are either all good or all bad. Ah! he may reckon on my + gratitude, and I am ready to cut myself in pieces if it would please him." + </p> + <p> + Jenny's joy was profound on hearing Crockston's words. Deliver her father! + She had never dared to think of such a plan, and the Captain of the <i>Dolphin</i> + was going to risk his ship and crew! + </p> + <p> + "That's what he is," added Crockston; "and this, Miss Jenny, is well worth + an acknowledgment from you." + </p> + <p> + "More than an acknowledgment," cried the young girl; "a lasting + friendship!" + </p> + <p> + And immediately she left the cabin to find James Playfair, and express to + him the sentiments which flowed from her heart. + </p> + <p> + "Getting on by degrees," muttered the American. + </p> + <p> + James Playfair was pacing to and fro on the poop, and, as may be thought, + he was very much surprised, not to say amazed, to see the young girl come + up to him, her eyes moist with grateful tears, and, holding out her hand + to him, saying: + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir, thank you for your kindness, which I should never have + dared to expect from a stranger." + </p> + <p> + "Miss," replied the Captain, as if he understood nothing of what she was + talking, and could not understand, "I do not know-" + </p> + <p> + "Nevertheless, sir, you are going to brave many dangers, perhaps + compromise your interests for me, and you have done so much already in + offering me on board an hospitality to which I have no right whatever-" + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, Miss Jenny," interrupted James Playfair, "but I protest again + I do not understand your words. I have acted towards you as any well-bred + man would towards a lady, and my conduct deserves neither so many thanks + nor so much gratitude." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Playfair," said Jenny, "it is useless to pretend any longer; + Crockston has told me all!" + </p> + <p> + "Ah!" said the Captain, "Crockston has told you all; then I understand + less than ever the reason for your leaving your cabin, and saying these + words which-" + </p> + <p> + Whilst speaking the Captain felt very much embarrassed; he remembered the + rough way in which he had received the American's overtures, but Jenny, + fortunately for him, did not give him time for further explanation; she + interrupted him, holding out her hand and saying: + </p> + <p> + "Mr. James, I had no other object in coming on board your ship except to + go to Charleston, and there, however cruel the slave-holders may be, they + will not refuse to let a poor girl share her father's prison; that was + all. I had never thought of a return as possible; but, since you are so + generous as to wish for my father's deliverance, since you will attempt + everything to save him, be assured you have my deepest gratitude." + </p> + <p> + James did not know what to do or what part to assume; he bit his lip; he + dared not take the hand offered him; he saw perfectly that Crockston had + compromised him, so that escape was impossible. At the same time he had no + thoughts of delivering Mr. Halliburtt, and getting complicated in a + disagreeable business: but how dash to the ground the hope which had + arisen in this poor girl's heart? How refuse the hand which she held out + to him with a feeling of such profound friendship? How change to tears of + grief the tears of gratitude which filled her eyes? + </p> + <p> + So the young man tried to reply evasively, in a manner which would ensure + his liberty of action for the future. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Jenny," said he, "rest assured I will do everything in my power + for-" + </p> + <p> + And he took the little hand in both of his, but with the gentle pressure + he felt his heart melt and his head grow confused: words to express his + thoughts failed him. He stammered out some incoherent words: + </p> + <p> + "Miss-Miss Jenny-for you-" + </p> + <p> + Crockston, who was watching him, rubbed his hands, grinning and repeating + to himself: + </p> + <p> + "It will come! it will come! it has come!" + </p> + <p> + How James Playfair would have managed to extricate himself from his + embarrassing position no one knows, but fortunately for him, if not for + the <i>Dolphin</i>, the man on watch was heard crying: + </p> + <p> + "Ahoy, officer of the watch!" + </p> + <p> + "What now?" asked Mr. Mathew. + </p> + <p> + "A sail to windward!" + </p> + <p> + James Playfair, leaving the young girl, immediately sprang to the shrouds + of the mainmast. + </p> + <p> + <a name="V" id="V"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter V + </h4> + <h4> + THE SHOT FROM THE <i>IROQUOIS,</i> AND MISS JENNY'S ARGUMENTS + </h4> + <p> + Until now the navigation of the <i>Dolphin</i> had been very fortunate. + Not one ship had been signalled before the sail hailed by the man on + watch. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Dolphin</i> was then in 32? 51' lat., and 57? 43' W. longitude. For + forty-eight hours a fog, which now began to rise, had covered the ocean. + If this mist favoured the <i>Dolphin</i> by hiding her course, it also + prevented any observations at a distance being made, and, without being + aware of it, she might be sailing side by side, so to speak, with the + ships she wished most to avoid. + </p> + <p> + Now this is just what had happened, and when the ship was signalled she + was only three miles to windward. + </p> + <p> + When James Playfair had reached the cross-trees, he saw distinctly, + through an opening in the mist, a large Federal corvette in full pursuit + of the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + After having carefully examined her, the Captain came down on deck again, + and called to the first officer. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Mathew," said he, "what do you think of this ship?" + </p> + <p> + "I think, Captain, that it is a Federal cruiser, which suspects our + intentions." + </p> + <p> + "There is no possible doubt of her nationality," said James Playfair. + "Look!" + </p> + <p> + At this moment the starry flag of the North United States appeared on the + gaff-yards of the corvette, and the latter asserted her colours with a + cannon-shot. + </p> + <p> + "An invitation to show ours," said Mr. Mathew. "Well, let us show them; + there is nothing to be ashamed of." + </p> + <p> + "What's the good?" replied James Playfair. "Our flag will hardly protect + us, and it will not hinder those people from paying us a visit. No; let us + go ahead." + </p> + <p> + "And go quickly," replied Mr. Mathew, "for, if my eyes do not deceive me, + I have already seen that corvette lying off Liverpool, where she went to + watch the ships in building: my name is not Mathew, if that is not the <i>Iroquois</i> + on her taffrail." + </p> + <p> + "And is she fast?" + </p> + <p> + "One of the fastest vessels of the Federal marine." + </p> + <p> + "What guns does she carry?" + </p> + <p> + "Eight." + </p> + <p> + "Pooh!" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, don't shrug your shoulders, Captain," said Mr. Mathew, in a serious + tone; "two out of those eight guns are rifled, one is a sixty-pounder on + the forecastle, and the other a hundred-pounder on deck." + </p> + <p> + "Upon my soul!" exclaimed James Playfair, "they are Parrott's, and will + carry three miles." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and farther than that, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, well! Mr. Mathew, let their guns be sixty or only four-pounders, and + let them carry three miles or five hundred yards, it is all the same if we + can go fast enough to avoid their shot. We will show this <i>Iroquois</i> + how a ship can go when she is built on purpose to go. Have the fires drawn + forward, Mr. Mathew." + </p> + <p> + The first officer gave the Captain's orders to the engineer, and soon + volumes of black smoke curled from the steamer's chimneys. + </p> + <p> + This proceeding did not seem to please the corvette, for she made the <i>Dolphin</i> + the signal to lie to, but James Playfair paid no attention to this + warning, and did not change his ship's course. + </p> + <p> + "Now," said he, "we shall see what the <i>Iroquois</i> will do; here is a + fine opportunity for her to try her guns. Go ahead full speed!" + </p> + <p> + "Good!" exclaimed Mr. Mathew; "she will not be long in saluting us." + </p> + <p> + Returning to the poop, the Captain saw Miss Halliburtt sitting quietly + near the bulwarks. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Jenny," said he, "we shall probably be chased by that corvette you + see to windward, and as she will speak to us with shot, I beg to offer you + my arm to take you to your cabin again." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, very much, Mr. Playfair," replied the young girl, looking at + him, "but I am not afraid of cannon-shots." + </p> + <p> + "However, miss, in spite of the distance, there may be some danger." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I was not brought up to be fearful; they accustom us to everything in + America, and I assure you that the shot from the <i>Iroquois</i> will not + make me lower my head." + </p> + <p> + "You are brave, Miss Jenny." + </p> + <p> + "Let us admit, then, that I am brave, and allow me to stay by you." + </p> + <p> + "I can refuse you nothing, Miss Halliburtt," replied the Captain, looking + at the young girl's calm face. + </p> + <p> + These words were hardly uttered when they saw a line of white smoke issue + from the bulwarks of the corvette; before the report had reached the <i>Dolphin</i> + a projectile whizzed through the air in the direction of the steamer. + </p> + <p> + At about twenty fathoms from the <i>Dolphin</i> the shot, the speed of + which had sensibly lessened, skimmed over the surface of the waves, + marking its passage by a series of water-jets; then, with another burst, + it rebounded to a certain height, passed over the <i>Dolphin</i>, grazing + the mizzen-yards on the starboard side, fell at thirty fathoms beyond, and + was buried in the waves. + </p> + <p> + "By Jove!" exclaimed James Playfair, "we must get along; another slap like + that is not to be waited for." + </p> + <p> + "Oh!" exclaimed Mr. Mathew, "they will take some time to reload such + pieces." + </p> + <p> + "Upon my honour, it is an interesting sight," said Crockston, who, with + arms crossed, stood perfectly at his ease looking at the scene. + </p> + <p> + "Ah! that's you," cried James Playfair, scanning the American from head to + foot. + </p> + <p> + "It is me, Captain," replied the American, undisturbed. "I have come to + see how these brave Federals fire; not badly, in truth, not badly." + </p> + <p> + The Captain was going to answer Crockston sharply, but at this moment a + second shot struck the sea on the starboard side. + </p> + <p> + "Good!" cried James Playfair, "we have already gained two cables on this + <i>Iroquois</i>. Your friends sail like a buoy; do you hear, Master + Crockston?" + </p> + <p> + "I will not say they don't," replied the American, "and for the first time + in my life it does not fail to please me." + </p> + <p> + A third shot fell still farther astern, and in less than ten minutes the + <i>Dolphin</i> was out of range of the corvette's guns. + </p> + <p> + "So much for patent-logs, Mr. Mathew," said James Playfair; "thanks to + those shot we know how to rate our speed. Now have the fires lowered; it + is not worth while to waste our coal uselessly." + </p> + <p> + "It is a good ship that you command," said Miss Halliburtt to the young + Captain. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Miss Jenny, my good <i>Dolphin</i> makes her seventeen knots, and + before the day is over we shall have lost sight of that corvette." + </p> + <p> + James Playfair did not exaggerate the sailing qualities of his ship, and + the sun had not set before the masts of the American ship had disappeared + below the horizon. + </p> + <p> + This incident allowed the Captain to see Miss Halliburtt's character in a + new light; besides, the ice was broken, henceforward, during the whole of + the voyage; the interviews between the Captain and his passenger were + frequent and prolonged; he found her to be a young girl, calm, strong, + thoughtful, and intelligent, speaking with great ease, having her own + ideas about everything, and expressing her thoughts with a conviction + which unconsciously penetrated James Playfair's heart. + </p> + <p> + She loved her country, she was zealous in the great cause of the Union, + and expressed herself on the civil war in the United States with an + enthusiasm of which no other woman would have been capable. Thus it + happened, more than once, that James Playfair found it difficult to answer + her, even when questions purely mercantile arose in connection with the + war: Miss Jenny attacked them none the less vigorously, and would come to + no other terms whatever. At first James argued a great deal, and tried to + uphold the Confederates against the Federals, to prove that the + Secessionists were in the right, and that if the people were united + voluntarily they might separate in the same manner. But the young girl + would not yield on this point; she demonstrated that the question of + slavery was predominant in the struggle between the North and South + Americans, that it was far more a war in the cause of morals and humanity + than politics, and James could make no answer. Besides, during these + discussions, which he listened to attentively, it is difficult to say + whether he was more touched by Miss Halliburtt's arguments or the charming + manner in which she spoke; but at last he was obliged to acknowledge, + among other things, that slavery was the principal feature in the war, + that it must be put an end to decisively, and the last horrors of + barbarous times abolished. + </p> + <p> + It has been said that the political opinions of the Captain did not + trouble him much. He would have sacrificed his most serious opinion before + such enticing arguments and under like circumstances; he made a good + bargain of his ideas for the same reason, but at last he was attacked in + his tenderest point; this was the question of the traffic in which the <i>Dolphin</i> + was being employed, and, consequently, the ammunition which was being + carried to the Confederates. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Mr. James," said Miss Halliburtt, "gratitude does not hinder me from + speaking with perfect frankness; on the contrary, you are a brave seaman, + a clever merchant, the house of Playfair is noted for its respectability; + but in this case it fails in its principles, and follows a trade unworthy + of it." + </p> + <p> + "How!" cried James, "the house of Playfair ought not to attempt such a + commercial enterprise?" + </p> + <p> + "No! it is taking ammunition to the unhappy creatures in revolt against + the government of their country, and it is lending arms to a bad cause." + </p> + <p> + "Upon my honour, Miss Jenny, I will not discuss the right of the + Confederates with you; I will only answer you with one word: I am a + merchant, and as such I only occupy myself with the interests of my house; + I look for gain wherever there is an opportunity of getting it." + </p> + <p> + "That is precisely what is to be blamed, Mr. James," replied the young + girl; "profit does not excuse it; thus, when you supply arms to the + Southerners, with which to continue a criminal war, you are quite as + guilty as when you sell opium to the Chinese, which stupefies them." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, for once, Miss Jenny, this is too much, and I cannot admit-" + </p> + <p> + "No; what I say is just, and when you consider it, when you understand the + part you are playing, when you think of the results for which you are + responsible, you will yield to me in this point, as in so many others." + </p> + <p> + James Playfair was dumfounded at these words; he left the young girl, a + prey to angry thoughts, for he felt his powerlessness to answer; then he + sulked like a child for half an hour, and an hour later he returned to the + singular young girl who could overwhelm him with convincing arguments with + quite a pleasant smile. + </p> + <p> + In short, however it may have come about, and although he would not + acknowledge it to himself, Captain James Playfair belonged to himself no + longer; he was no longer commander-in-chief on board his own ship. + </p> + <p> + Thus, to Crockston's great joy, Mr. Halliburtt's affairs appeared to be in + a good way; the Captain seemed to have decided to undertake everything in + his power to deliver Miss Jenny's father, and for this he would be obliged + to compromise the <i>Dolphin</i>, his cargo, his crew, and incur the + displeasure of his worthy Uncle Vincent. + </p> + <p> + <a name="VI" id="VI"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter VI + </h4> + <h4> + SULLIVAN ISLAND CHANNEL + </h4> + <p> + Two days after the meeting with the <i>Iroquois</i>, the <i>Dolphin</i> + found herself abreast of the Bermudas, where she was assailed by a violent + squall. These isles are frequently visited by hurricanes, and are + celebrated for shipwrecks. It is here that Shakespeare has placed the + exciting scene of his drama, <i>The Tempest</i>, in which Ariel and + Caliban dispute for the empire of the floods. + </p> + <p> + The squall was frightful; James Playfair thought once of running for one + of the Bermudas, where the English had a military post: it would have been + a sad waste of time, and therefore especially to be regretted; happily the + <i>Dolphin</i> behaved herself wonderfully well in the storm, and, after + flying a whole day before the tempest, she was able to resume her course + towards the American coast. + </p> + <p> + But if James Playfair had been pleased with his ship, he had not been less + delighted with the young girl's bravery; Miss Halliburtt had passed the + worst hours of the storm at his side, and James knew that a profound, + imperious, irresistible love had taken possession of his whole being. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said he, "this brave girl is mistress on board; she turns me like + the sea a ship in distress-I feel that I am foundering! What will Uncle + Vincent say? Ah! poor nature, I am sure that if Jenny asked me to throw + all this cursed cargo into the sea, I should do it without hesitating, for + love of her." + </p> + <p> + Happily for the firm of Playfair & Co., Miss Halliburtt did not demand + this sacrifice; nevertheless, the poor Captain had been taken captive, and + Crockston, who read his heart like an open book, rubbed his hands + gleefully. + </p> + <p> + "We will hold him fast!" he muttered to himself, "and before a week has + passed my master will be quietly installed in one of the best cabins of + the <i>Dolphin</i>." + </p> + <p> + As for Miss Jenny, did she perceive the feelings which she inspired? Did + she allow herself to share them? No one could say, and James Playfair + least of all; the young girl kept a perfect reserve, and her secret + remained deeply buried in her heart. + </p> + <p> + But whilst love was making such progress in the heart of the young + Captain, the <i>Dolphin</i> sped with no less rapidity towards Charleston. + </p> + <p> + On the 13th of January, the watch signalled land ten miles to the west. It + was a low-lying coast, and almost blended with the line of the sea in the + distance. Crockston was examining the horizon attentively, and about nine + o'clock in the morning he cried: + </p> + <p> + "Charleston lighthouse!" + </p> + <p> + Now that the bearings of the <i>Dolphin</i> were set, James Playfair had + but one thing to do, to decide by which channel he would run into + Charleston Bay. + </p> + <p> + "If we meet with no obstacles," said he, "before three o'clock we shall be + in safety in the docks of the port." + </p> + <p> + The town of Charleston is situated on the banks of an estuary seven miles + long and two broad, called Charleston Harbour, the entrance to which is + rather difficult. It is enclosed between Morris Island on the south and + Sullivan Island on the north. At the time when the <i>Dolphin</i> + attempted to force the blockade Morris Island already belonged to the + Federal troops, and General Gillmore had caused batteries to be erected + overlooking the harbour. Sullivan Island, on the contrary, was in the + hands of the Confederates, who were also in possession of Moultrie Fort, + situated at the extremity of the island; therefore it would be + advantageous to the <i>Dolphin</i> to go as close as possible to the + northern shores to avoid the firing from the forts on Morris Island. + </p> + <p> + Five channels led into the estuary, Sullivan Island Channel, the Northern + Channel, the Overall Channel, the Principal Channel, and lastly, the + Lawford Channel; but it was useless for strangers, unless they had skilful + pilots on board, or ships drawing less than seven feet of water, to + attempt this last; as for Northern and Overall Channels, they were in + range of the Federalist batteries, so that it was no good thinking of + them. If James Playfair could have had his choice, he would have taken his + steamer through the Principal Channel, which was the best, and the + bearings of which were easy to follow; but it was necessary to yield to + circumstances, and to decide according to the event. Besides, the Captain + of the <i>Dolphin</i> knew perfectly all the secrets of this bay, its + dangers, the depths of its water at low tide, and its currents, so that he + was able to steer his ship with the greatest safety as soon as he entered + one of these narrow straits. The great question was to get there. + </p> + <p> + Now this work demanded an experienced seaman, and one who knew exactly the + qualities of the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + In fact, two Federal frigates were now cruising in the Charleston waters. + Mr. Mathew soon drew James Playfair's attention to them. + </p> + <p> + "They are preparing to ask us what we want on these shores," said he. + </p> + <p> + "Ah, well! we won't answer them," replied the Captain, "and they will not + get their curiosity satisfied." + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile the cruisers were coming on full steam towards the <i>Dolphin</i>, + who continued her course, taking care to keep out of range of their guns. + But in order to gain time James Playfair made for the south-west, wishing + to put the enemies' ships off their guard; the latter must have thought + that the <i>Dolphin</i> intended to make for Morris Island Channel. Now + there they had batteries and guns, a single shot from which would have + been enough to sink the English ship; so the Federals allowed the <i>Dolphin</i> + to run towards the south-west, contenting themselves by observing her + without following closely. + </p> + <p> + Thus for an hour the respective situations of the ships did not change, + for James Playfair, wishing to deceive the cruisers as to the course of + the <i>Dolphin</i>, had caused the fires to be moderated, so that the + speed was decreased. However, from the thick volumes of smoke which + escaped from the chimneys, it might have been thought that he was trying + to get his maximum pressure, and, consequently his maximum of rapidity. + </p> + <p> + "They will be slightly astonished presently," said James Playfair, "when + they see us slip through their fingers!" + </p> + <p> + In fact, when the Captain saw that he was near enough to Morris Island, + and before a line of guns, the range of which he did not know, he turned + his rudder quickly, and the ship resumed her northerly course, leaving the + cruisers two miles to windward of her; the latter, seeing this manoeuvre, + understood the steamer's object, and began to pursue her in earnest, but + it was too late. The <i>Dolphin</i> doubled her speed under the action of + the screws, and distanced them rapidly. Going nearer to the coast, a few + shell were sent after her as an acquittal of conscience, but the Federals + were outdone, for their projectiles did not reach half-way. At eleven + o'clock in the morning, the steamer ranging near Sullivan Island, thanks + to her small draft, entered the narrow strait full steam; there she was in + safety, for no Federalist cruiser dared follow her in this channel, the + depth of which, on an average, was only eleven feet at low tide. + </p> + <p> + "How!" cried Crockston, "and is that the only difficulty?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh! oh! Master Crockston," said James Playfair, "the difficulty is not in + entering, but in getting out again." + </p> + <p> + "Nonsense!" replied the American, "that does not make me at all uneasy; + with a boat like the <i>Dolphin</i> and a Captain like Mr. James Playfair, + one can go where one likes, and come out in the same manner." + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, James Playfair, with telescope in his hand, was attentively + examining the route to be followed. He had before him excellent coasting + guides, with which he could go ahead without any difficulty or hesitation. + </p> + <p> + Once his ship was safely in the narrow channel which runs the length of + Sullivan Island, James steered bearing towards the middle of Fort Moultrie + as far as the Pickney Castle, situated on the isolated island of Shute's + Folly; on the other side rose Fort Johnson, a little way to the north of + Fort Sumter. + </p> + <p> + At this moment the steamer was saluted by some shot which did not reach + her, from the batteries on Morris Island. She continued her course without + any deviation, passed before Moultrieville, situated at the extremity of + Sullivan Island, and entered the bay. + </p> + <p> + Soon Fort Sumter on the left protected her from the batteries of the + Federalists. + </p> + <p> + This fort, so celebrated in the civil war, is situated three miles and a + half from Charleston, and about a mile from each side of the bay: it is + nearly pentagonal in form, built on an artificial island of Massachusetts + granite; it took ten years to construct and cost more than 900,000 + dollars. + </p> + <p> + It was from this fort, on the 13th of April, 1861, that Anderson and the + Federal troops were driven, and it was against it that the first shot of + the Confederates was fired. It is impossible to estimate the quantity of + iron and lead which the Federals showered down upon it. However, it + resisted for almost three years, but a few months after the passage of the + <i>Dolphin</i> it fell beneath General Gillmore's three hundred-pounders + on Morris Island. + </p> + <p> + But at this time it was in all its strength, and the Confederate flag + floated proudly above it. + </p> + <p> + Once past the fort, the town of Charleston appeared, lying between Ashley + and Cooper Rivers. + </p> + <p> + James Playfair threaded his way through the buoys which mark the entrance + of the channel, leaving behind the Charleston lighthouse, visible above + Morris Island. He had hoisted the English flag, and made his way with + wonderful rapidity through the narrow channels. When he had passed the + quarantine buoy, he advanced freely into the centre of the bay. Miss + Halliburtt was standing on the poop, looking at the town where her father + was kept prisoner, and her eyes filled with tears. + </p> + <p> + At last the steamer's speed was moderated by the Captain's orders; the <i>Dolphin</i> + ranged along the end of the south and east batteries, and was soon moored + at the quay of the North Commercial Wharf. + </p> + <p> + <a name="VII" id="VII"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter VII + </h4> + <h4> + A SOUTHERN GENERAL + </h4> + <p> + The <i>Dolphin</i>, on arriving at the Charleston quay, had been saluted + by the cheers of a large crowd. The inhabitants of this town, strictly + blockaded by sea, were not accustomed to visits from European ships. They + asked each other, not without astonishment, what this great steamer, + proudly bearing the English flag, had come to do in their waters; but when + they learned the object of her voyage, and why she had just forced the + passage Sullivan, when the report spread that she carried a cargo of + smuggled ammunition, the cheers and joyful cries were redoubled. + </p> + <p> + James Playfair, without losing a moment, entered into negotiation with + General Beauregard, the military commander of the town. The latter eagerly + received the young Captain of the <i>Dolphin</i>, who had arrived in time + to provide the soldiers with the clothes and ammunition they were so much + in want of. It was agreed that the unloading of the ship should take place + immediately, and numerous hands came to help the English sailors. + </p> + <p> + Before quitting his ship James Playfair had received from Miss Halliburtt + the most pressing injunctions with regard to her father, and the Captain + had placed himself entirely at the young girl's service. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Jenny," he had said, "you may rely on me; I will do the utmost in my + power to save your father, but I hope this business will not present many + difficulties. I shall go and see General Beauregard to-day, and, without + asking him at once for Mr. Halliburtt's liberty, I shall learn in what + situation he is, whether he is on bail or a prisoner." + </p> + <p> + "My poor father!" replied Jenny, sighing; "he little thinks his daughter + is so near him. Oh that I could fly into his arms!" + </p> + <p> + "A little patience, Miss Jenny; you will soon embrace your father. Rely + upon my acting with the most entire devotion, but also with prudence and + consideration." + </p> + <p> + This is why James Playfair, after having delivered the cargo of the <i>Dolphin</i> + up to the General, and bargained for an immense stock of cotton, faithful + to his promise, turned the conversation to the events of the day. + </p> + <p> + "So," said he, "you believe in the triumph of the slave-holders?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not for a moment doubt of our final success, and, as regards + Charleston, Lee's army will soon relieve it: besides, what do you expect + from the Abolitionists? Admitting that which will never be, that the + commercial towns of Virginia, the two Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama, fall + under their power, what then? Will they be masters of a country they can + never occupy? No, certainly not; and for my part, if they are ever + victorious, they shall pay dearly for it." + </p> + <p> + "And you are quite sure of your soldiers?" asked the Captain. "You are not + afraid that Charleston will grow weary of a siege which is ruining her?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I do not fear treason; besides, the traitors would be punished + remorselessly, and I would destroy the town itself by sword or fire if I + discovered the least Unionist movement. Jefferson Davis confided + Charleston to me, and you may be sure that Charleston is in safe hands." + </p> + <p> + "Have you any Federal prisoners?" asked James Playfair, coming to the + interesting object of the conversation. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Captain," replied the General, "it was at Charleston that the first + shot of separation was fired. The Abolitionists who were here attempted to + resist, and, after being defeated, they have been kept as prisoners of + war." + </p> + <p> + "And have you many?" + </p> + <p> + "About a hundred." + </p> + <p> + "Free in the town?" + </p> + <p> + "They were until I discovered a plot formed by them: their chief succeeded + in establishing a communication with the besiegers, who were thus informed + of the situation of affairs in the town. I was then obliged to lock up + these dangerous guests, and several of them will only leave their prison + to ascend the slope of the citadel, where ten confederate balls will + reward them for their federalism." + </p> + <p> + "What! to be shot!" cried the young man, shuddering involuntarily. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and their chief first of all. He is a very dangerous man to have in + a besieged town. I have sent his letters to the President at Richmond, and + before a week is passed his sentence will be irrevocably passed." + </p> + <p> + "Who is this man you speak of?" asked James Playfair, with an assumed + carelessness. + </p> + <p> + "A journalist from Boston, a violent Abolitionist with the confounded + spirit of Lincoln." + </p> + <p> + "And his name?" + </p> + <p> + "Jonathan Halliburtt." + </p> + <p> + "Poor wretch!" exclaimed James, suppressing his emotion. "Whatever he may + have done, one cannot help pitying him. And you think that he will be + shot?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure of it," replied Beauregard. "What can you expect? War is war; + one must defend oneself as best one can." + </p> + <p> + "Well, it is nothing to me," said the Captain. "I shall be far enough away + when this execution takes place." + </p> + <p> + "What! you are thinking of going away already." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, General, business must be attended to; as soon as my cargo of cotton + is on board I shall be out to sea again. I was fortunate enough to enter + the bay, but the difficulty is in getting out again. The <i>Dolphin</i> is + a good ship; she can beat any of the Federal vessels for speed, but she + does not pretend to distance cannon-balls, and a shell in her hull or + engine would seriously affect my enterprise." + </p> + <p> + "As you please, Captain," replied Beauregard; "I have no advice to give + you under such circumstances. You are doing your business, and you are + right. I should act in the same manner were I in your place; besides, a + stay at Charleston is not very pleasant, and a harbour where shells are + falling three days out of four is not a safe shelter for your ship; so you + will set sail when you please; but can you tell me what is the number and + the force of the Federal vessels cruising before Charleston?" + </p> + <p> + James Playfair did his best to answer the General, and took leave of him + on the best of terms; then he returned to the <i>Dolphin</i> very + thoughtful and very depressed from what he had just heard. + </p> + <p> + "What shall I say to Miss Jenny? Ought I to tell her of Mr. Halliburtt's + terrible situation? Or would it be better to keep her in ignorance of the + trial which is awaiting her? Poor child!" + </p> + <p> + He had not gone fifty steps from the governor's house when he ran against + Crockston. The worthy American had been watching for him since his + departure. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Captain?" + </p> + <p> + James Playfair looked steadily at Crockston, and the latter soon + understood he had no favourable news to give him. + </p> + <p> + "Have you seen Beauregard?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," replied James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "And have you spoken to him about Mr. Halliburtt?" + </p> + <p> + "No, it was he who spoke to me about him." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Captain?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, I may as well tell you everything, Crockston." + </p> + <p> + "Everything, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "General Beauregard has told me that your master will be shot within a + week." + </p> + <p> + At this news anyone else but Crockston would have grown furious or given + way to bursts of grief, but the American, who feared nothing, only said, + with almost a smile on his lips: + </p> + <p> + "Pooh! what does it matter?" + </p> + <p> + "How! what does it matter?" cried James Playfair. "I tell you that Mr. + Halliburtt will be shot within a week, and you answer, what does it + matter?" + </p> + <p> + "And I mean it-if in six days he is on board the <i>Dolphin</i>, and if in + seven days the <i>Dolphin</i> is on the open sea." + </p> + <p> + "Right!" exclaimed the Captain, pressing Crockston's hand. "I understand, + my good fellow, you have got some pluck; and for myself, in spite of Uncle + Vincent, I would throw myself overboard for Miss Jenny." + </p> + <p> + "No one need be thrown overboard," replied the American, "only the fish + would gain by that: the most important business now is to deliver Mr. + Halliburtt." + </p> + <p> + "But you must know that it will be difficult to do so." + </p> + <p> + "Pooh!" exclaimed Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "It is a question of communicating with a prisoner strictly guarded." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly." + </p> + <p> + "And to bring about an almost miraculous escape." + </p> + <p> + "Nonsense," exclaimed Crockston; "a prisoner thinks more of escaping than + his guardian thinks of keeping him; that's why, thanks to our help, Mr. + Halliburtt will be saved." + </p> + <p> + "You are right, Crockston." + </p> + <p> + "Always right." + </p> + <p> + "But now what will you do? There must be some plan: and there are + precautions to be taken." + </p> + <p> + "I will think about it." + </p> + <p> + "But when Miss Jenny learns that her father is condemned to death, and + that the order for his execution may come any day-" + </p> + <p> + "She will know nothing about it, that is all." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it will be better for her and for us to tell her nothing." + </p> + <p> + "Where is Mr. Halliburtt imprisoned?" asked Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "In the citadel," replied James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "Just so! . . . On board now?" + </p> + <p> + "On board, Crockston!" + </p> + <p> + <a name="VIII" id="VIII"></a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter VIII + </h4> + <h4> + THE ESCAPE + </h4> + <p> + Miss Jenny, sitting at the poop of the <i>Dolphin</i>, was anxiously + waiting the Captain's return; when the latter went up to her she could not + utter a word, but her eyes questioned James Playfair more eagerly than her + lips could have done. The latter, with Crockston's help, informed the + young girl of the facts relating to her father's imprisonment. He said + that he had carefully broached the subject of the prisoners of war to + Beauregard, but, as the General did not seem disposed at all in their + favour, he had thought it better to say no more about it, but think the + matter over again. + </p> + <p> + "Since Mr. Halliburtt is not free in the town, his escape will be more + difficult; but I will finish my task, and I promise you, Miss Jenny, that + the <i>Dolphin</i> shall not leave Charleston without having your father + on board." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Mr. James; I thank you with my whole heart." + </p> + <p> + At these words James Playfair felt a thrill of joy through his whole + being. + </p> + <p> + He approached the young girl with moist eyes and quivering lips; perhaps + he was going to make an avowal of the sentiments he could no longer + repress, when Crockston interfered: + </p> + <p> + "This is no time for grieving," said he; "we must go to work, and consider + what to do." + </p> + <p> + "Have you any plan, Crockston?" asked the young girl. + </p> + <p> + "I always have a plan," replied the American: "it is my peculiarity." + </p> + <p> + "But a good one?" said James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "Excellent! and all the ministers in Washington could not devise a better; + it is almost as good as if Mr. Halliburtt was already on board." + </p> + <p> + Crockston spoke with such perfect assurance, at the same time with such + simplicity, that it must have been the most incredulous person who could + doubt his words. + </p> + <p> + "We are listening, Crockston," said James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "Good! You, Captain, will go to General Beauregard, and ask a favour of + him which he will not refuse you." + </p> + <p> + "And what is that?" + </p> + <p> + "You will tell him that you have on board a tiresome subject, a scamp who + has been very troublesome during the voyage, and excited the crew to + revolt. You will ask of him permission to shut him up in the citadel; at + the same time, on the condition that he shall return to the ship on her + departure, in order to be taken back to England, to be delivered over to + the justice of his country." + </p> + <p> + "Good!" said James Playfair, half smiling, "I will do all that, and + Beauregard will grant my request very willingly." + </p> + <p> + "I am perfectly sure of it," replied the American. + </p> + <p> + "But," resumed Playfair, "one thing is wanting." + </p> + <p> + "What is that?" + </p> + <p> + "The scamp." + </p> + <p> + "He is before you, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "What, the rebellious subject?" + </p> + <p> + "Is myself; don't trouble yourself about that." + </p> + <p> + "Oh! you brave, generous heart," cried Jenny, pressing the American's + rough hands between her small white palms. + </p> + <p> + "Go, Crockston," said James Playfair; "I understand you, my friend; and I + only regret one thing-that is, that I cannot take your place." + </p> + <p> + "Everyone his part," replied Crockston; "if you put yourself in my place + you would be very much embarrassed, which I shall not be; you will have + enough to do later on to get out of the harbour under the fire of the Feds + and Rebs, which, for my part, I should manage very badly." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Crockston, go on." + </p> + <p> + "Once in the citadel-I know it-I shall see what to do, and rest assured I + shall do my best; in the meanwhile, you will be getting your cargo on + board." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, business is now a very unimportant detail," said the Captain. + </p> + <p> + "Not at all! And what would your Uncle Vincent say to that? We must join + sentiment with work; it will prevent suspicion; but do it quickly. Can you + be ready in six days?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Well, let the <i>Dolphin</i> be ready to start on the 22nd." + </p> + <p> + "She shall be ready." + </p> + <p> + "On the evening of the 22nd of January, you understand, send a gig with + your best men to White Point, at the end of the town; wait there till nine + o'clock, and then you will see Mr. Halliburtt and your servant." + </p> + <p> + "But how will you manage to effect Mr. Halliburtt's deliverance, and also + escape yourself?" + </p> + <p> + "That's my look-out." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Crockston, you are going to risk your life then, to save my father!" + </p> + <p> + "Don't be uneasy, Miss Jenny, I shall risk absolutely nothing, you may + believe me." + </p> + <p> + "Well," asked James Playfair, "when must I have you locked up?" + </p> + <p> + "To-day-you understand-I demoralise your crew; there is no time to be + lost." + </p> + <p> + "Would you like any money? It may be of use to you in the citadel." + </p> + <p> + "Money to buy the gaoler! Oh, no, it would be a poor bargain; when one + goes there the gaoler keeps the money and the prisoner! No, I have surer + means than that; however, a few dollars may be useful; one must be able to + drink, if needs be." + </p> + <p> + "And intoxicate the gaoler." + </p> + <p> + "No, an intoxicated gaoler would spoil everything. No, I tell you I have + an idea; let me work it out." + </p> + <p> + "Here, my good fellow, are ten dollars." + </p> + <p> + "It is too much, but I will return what is over." + </p> + <p> + "Well, then, are you ready?" + </p> + <p> + "Quite ready to be a downright rogue." + </p> + <p> + "Let us go to work, then." + </p> + <p> + "Crockston," said the young girl, in a faltering voice, "you are the best + man on earth." + </p> + <p> + "I know it," replied the American, laughing good-humouredly. "By the by, + Captain, an important item." + </p> + <p> + "What is that?" + </p> + <p> + "If the General proposes to hang your rebel-you know that military men + like sharp work-" + </p> + <p> + "Well, Crockston?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, you will say that you must think about it." + </p> + <p> + "I promise you I will." + </p> + <p> + The same day, to the great astonishment of the crew, who were not in the + secret, Crockston, with his feet and hands in irons, was taken on shore by + a dozen sailors, and half an hour after, by Captain James Playfair's + request, he was led through the streets of the town, and, in spite of his + resistance, was imprisoned in the citadel. + </p> + <p> + During this and the following days the unloading of the <i>Dolphin</i> was + rapidly accomplished; the steam cranes lifted out the European cargo to + make room for the native goods. The people of Charleston, who were present + at this interesting work, helped the sailors, whom they held in great + respect, but the Captain did not leave the brave fellows much time for + receiving compliments; he was constantly behind them, and urged them on + with a feverish activity, the reason of which the sailors could not + suspect. + </p> + <p> + Three days later, on the 18th of January, the first bales of cotton began + to be packed in the hold: although James Playfair troubled himself no more + about it, the firm of Playfair and Co. were making an excellent bargain, + having obtained the cotton which encumbered the Charleston wharves at very + far less than its value. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime no news had been heard of Crockston. Jenny, without saying + anything about it, was a prey to incessant fears; her pale face spoke for + her, and James Playfair endeavoured his utmost to ease her mind. + </p> + <p> + "I have all confidence in Crockston," said he; "he is a devoted servant, + as you must know better than I do, Miss Jenny. You must make yourself + quite at ease; believe me, in three days you will be folded in your + father's arms." + </p> + <p> + "Ah! Mr. James," cried the young girl, "how can I ever repay you for such + devotion? How shall we ever be able to thank you?" + </p> + <p> + "I will tell you when we are in English seas," replied the young Captain. + </p> + <p> + Jenny raised her tearful face to him for a moment, then her eyelids + drooped, and she went back to her cabin. + </p> + <p> + James Playfair hoped that the young girl would know nothing of her + father's terrible situation until he was in safety, but she was apprised + of the truth by the involuntary indiscretion of a sailor. + </p> + <p> + The reply from the Richmond cabinet had arrived by a courier who had been + able to pass the line of outposts; the reply contained Jonathan + Halliburtt's death-warrant. The news of the approaching execution was not + long in spreading through the town, and it was brought on board by one of + the sailors of the <i>Dolphin</i>; the man told the Captain, without + thinking that Miss Halliburtt was within hearing; the young girl uttered a + piercing cry, and fell unconscious on the deck. James Playfair carried her + to her cabin, but the most assiduous care was necessary to restore her to + life. + </p> + <p> + When she opened her eyes again, she saw the young Captain, who, with a + finger on his lips, enjoined absolute silence. With difficulty she + repressed the outburst of her grief, and James Playfair, leaning towards + her, said gently: + </p> + <p> + "Jenny, in two hours your father will be in safety near you, or I shall + have perished in endeavouring to save him!" + </p> + <p> + Then he left the cabin, saying to himself, "And now he must be carried off + at any price, since I must pay for his liberty with my own life and those + of my crew." + </p> + <p> + The hour for action had arrived, the loading of the cotton cargo had been + finished since morning; in two hours the ship would be ready to start. + </p> + <p> + James Playfair had left the North Commercial Wharf and gone into the + roadstead, so that he was ready to make use of the tide, which would be + high at nine o'clock in the evening. + </p> + <p> + It was seven o'clock when James left the young girl, and began to make + preparations for departure. Until the present time the secret had been + strictly kept between himself, Crockston, and Jenny; but now he thought it + wise to inform Mr. Mathew of the situation of affairs, and he did so + immediately. + </p> + <p> + "Very well, sir," replied Mr. Mathew, without making the least remark, + "and nine o'clock is the time?" + </p> + <p> + "Nine o'clock, and have the fires lit immediately, and the steam got up." + </p> + <p> + "It shall be done, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "The <i>Dolphin</i> may remain at anchor; we will cut our moorings and + sheer off, without losing a moment." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "Have a lantern placed at the mainmast-head; the night is dark, and will + be foggy; we must not risk losing our way in returning. You had better + have the bell for starting rung at nine o'clock." + </p> + <p> + "Your orders shall be punctually attended to, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "And now, Mr. Mathew, have a shore-boat manned with six of our best men. I + am going to set out directly for White Point. I leave Miss Jenny in your + charge, and may God protect us!" + </p> + <p> + "May God protect us!" repeated the first officer. + </p> + <p> + Then he immediately gave the necessary orders for the fires to be lighted, + and the shore-boat provided with men. In a few minutes the boat was ready, + and James Playfair, after bidding Jenny good-bye, stepped into it, whilst + at the same time he saw volumes of black smoke issuing from the chimneys + of the ship, and losing itself in the fog. + </p> + <p> + The darkness was profound; the wind had fallen, and in the perfect silence + the waters seemed to slumber in the immense harbour, whilst a few + uncertain lights glimmered through the mist. James Playfair had taken his + place at the rudder, and with a steady hand he guided his boat towards + White Point. It was a distance of about two miles; during the day James + had taken his bearings perfectly, so that he was able to make direct for + Charleston Point. + </p> + <p> + Eight o'clock struck from the church of St. Philip when the shore-boat ran + aground at White Point. + </p> + <p> + There was an hour to wait before the exact time fixed by Crockston; the + quay was deserted, with the exception of the sentinel pacing to and fro on + the south and east batteries. James Playfair grew impatient, and the + minutes seemed hours to him. + </p> + <p> + At half-past eight he heard the sound of approaching steps; he left his + men with their oars clear and ready to start, and went himself to see who + it was; but he had not gone ten feet when he met a band of coastguards, in + all about twenty men. James drew his revolver from his waist, deciding to + make use of it, if needs be; but what could he do against these soldiers, + who were coming on to the quay? + </p> + <p> + The leader came up to him, and, seeing the boat, asked: + </p> + <p> + "Whose craft is that?" + </p> + <p> + "It is a gig belonging to the <i>Dolphin</i>," replied the young man. + </p> + <p> + "And who are you?" + </p> + <p> + "Captain James Playfair." + </p> + <p> + "I thought you had already started, and were now in the Charleston + channels." + </p> + <p> + "I am ready to start. I ought even now to be on my way but-" + </p> + <p> + "But-" persisted the coastguard. + </p> + <p> + A bright idea shot through James's mind, and he answered: + </p> + <p> + "One of my sailors is locked up in the citadel, and, to tell the truth, I + had almost forgotten him; fortunately I thought of him in time, and I have + sent my men to bring him." + </p> + <p> + "Ah! that troublesome fellow; you wish to take him back to England?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes. + </p> + <p> + "He might as well be hung here as there," said the coast-guard, laughing + at his joke. + </p> + <p> + "So I think," said James Playfair, "but it is better to have the thing + done in the regular way." + </p> + <p> + "Not much chance of that, Captain, when you have to face the Morris Island + batteries." + </p> + <p> + "Don't alarm yourself. I got in and I'll get out again." + </p> + <p> + "Prosperous voyage to you!" + </p> + <p> + "Thank you." + </p> + <p> + With this the men went off, and the shore was left silent. + </p> + <p> + At this moment nine o'clock struck; it was the appointed moment. James + felt his heart beat violently; a whistle was heard; he replied to it, then + he waited, listening, with his hand up to enjoin perfect silence on the + sailors. A man appeared enveloped in a large cloak, and looking from one + side to another. James ran up to him. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Halliburtt?" + </p> + <p> + "I am he," replied the man with the cloak. + </p> + <p> + "God be praised!" cried James Playfair. "Embark without losing a minute. + Where is Crockston?" + </p> + <p> + "Crockston!" exclaimed Mr. Halliburtt, amazed. "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "The man who has saved you and brought you here was your servant + Crockston." + </p> + <p> + "The man who came with me was the gaoler from the citadel," replied Mr. + Halliburtt. + </p> + <p> + "The gaoler!" cried James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + Evidently he knew nothing about it, and a thousand fears crowded in his + mind. + </p> + <p> + "Quite right, the gaoler," cried a well-known voice. "The gaoler is + sleeping like a top in my cell." + </p> + <p> + "Crockston! you! Can it be you?" exclaimed Mr. Halliburtt. + </p> + <p> + "No time to talk now, master; we will explain everything to you + afterwards. It is a question of life or death. Get in quick!" + </p> + <p> + The three men took their places in the boat. + </p> + <p> + "Push off!" cried the captain. + </p> + <p> + Immediately the six oars dipped into the water; the boat darted like a + fish through the waters of Charleston Harbour. + </p> + <p> + <a name="IX" id="IX"></a </a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter IX + </h4> + <h4> + BETWEEN TWO FIRES + </h4> + <p> + The boat, pulled by six robust oarsmen, flew over the water. The fog was + growing dense, and it was with difficulty that James Playfair succeeded in + keeping to the line of his bearings. Crockston sat at the bows, and Mr. + Halliburtt at the stern, next the Captain. The prisoner, only now informed + of the presence of his servant, wished to speak to him, but the latter + enjoined silence. + </p> + <p> + However, a few minutes later, when they were in the middle of the harbour, + Crockston determined to speak, knowing what thoughts were uppermost in Mr. + Halliburtt's mind. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, my dear master," said he, "the gaoler is in my place in the cell, + where I gave him two smart blows, one on the head and the other on the + stomach, to act as a sleeping draught, and this when he was bringing me my + supper; there is gratitude for you. I took his clothes and his keys, found + you, and let you out of the citadel, under the soldiers' noses. That is + all I have done." + </p> + <p> + "But my daughter-?" asked Mr. Halliburtt. + </p> + <p> + "Is on board the ship which is going to take you to England." + </p> + <p> + "My daughter there! there!" cried the American, springing from his seat. + </p> + <p> + "Silence!" replied Crockston, "a few minutes, and we shall be saved." + </p> + <p> + The boat flew through the darkness, but James Playfair was obliged to + steer rather by guess, as the lanterns of the <i>Dolphin</i> were no + longer visible through the fog. He was undecided what direction to follow, + and the darkness was so great that the rowers could not even see to the + end of their oars. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Mr. James?" said Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "We must have made more than a mile and a half," replied the Captain. "You + don't see anything, Crockston?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing; nevertheless, I have good eyes; but we shall get there all + right. They don't suspect anything out there." + </p> + <p> + These words were hardly finished when the flash of a gun gleamed for an + instant through the darkness, and vanished in the mist. + </p> + <p> + "A signal!" cried James Playfair. + </p> + <p> + "Whew!" exclaimed Crockston. "It must have come from the citadel. Let us + wait." + </p> + <p> + A second, then a third shot was fired in the direction of the first, and + almost the same signal was repeated a mile in front of the gig. + </p> + <p> + "That is from Fort Sumter," cried Crockston, "and it is the signal of + escape. Urge on the men; everything is discovered." + </p> + <p> + "Pull for your lives, my men!" cried James Playfair, urging on the + sailors, "those gun-shots cleared my route. The <i>Dolphin</i> is eight + hundred yards ahead of us. Stop! I hear the bell on board. Hurrah, there + it is again! Twenty pounds for you if we are back in five minutes!" + </p> + <p> + The boat skimmed over the waves under the sailors' powerful oars. A cannon + boomed in the direction of the town. Crockston heard a ball whiz past + them. + </p> + <p> + The bell on the <i>Dolphin</i> was ringing loudly. A few more strokes and + the boat was alongside. A few more seconds and Jenny fell into her + father's arms. + </p> + <p> + The gig was immediately raised, and James Playfair sprang on to the poop. + </p> + <p> + "Is the steam up, Mr. Mathew?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "Have the moorings cut at once." + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later the two screws carried the steamer towards the + principal channel, away from Fort Sumter. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Mathew," said James, "we must not think of taking the Sullivan Island + channel; we should run directly under the Confederate guns. Let us go as + near as possible to the right side of the harbour out of range of the + Federal batteries. Have you a safe man at the helm?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "Have the lanterns and the fires on deck extinguished; there is a great + deal too much light, but we cannot help the reflection from the + engine-rooms." + </p> + <p> + During this conversation the <i>Dolphin</i> was going at a great speed; + but in altering her course to keep to the right side of the Charleston + Harbour she was obliged to enter a channel which took her for a moment + near Fort Sumter; and when scarcely half a mile off all the guns bearing + on her were discharged at the same time, and a shower of shot and shell + passed in front of the <i>Dolphin</i> with a thundering report. + </p> + <p> + "Too soon, stupids," cried James Playfair, with a burst of laughter. "Make + haste, make haste, Mr. Engineer! We shall get between two fires." + </p> + <p> + The stokers fed the furnaces, and the <i>Dolphin</i> trembled all over + with the effort of the engine as if she was on the point of exploding. + </p> + <p> + At this moment a second report was heard, and another shower of balls + whizzed behind the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + "Too late, stupids," cried the young Captain, with a regular roar. + </p> + <p> + Then Crockston, who was standing on the poop, cried, "That's one passed. A + few minutes more, and we shall have done with the Rebs." + </p> + <p> + "Then do you think we have nothing more to fear from Fort Sumter?" asked + James. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing at all, but everything from Fort Moultrie, at the end of Sullivan + Island; but they will only get a chance at us for half a minute, and then + they must choose their time well, and shoot straight if they want to reach + us. We are getting near." + </p> + <p> + "Right; the position of Fort Moultrie will allow us to go straight for the + principal channel. Fire away then, fire away!" + </p> + <p> + At the same moment, and as if in obedience to James Playfair, the fort was + illuminated by a triple line of lightning. A frightful crash was heard; + then a crackling sound on board the steamer. + </p> + <p> + "Touched this time!" exclaimed Crockston. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Mathew!" cried the Captain to his second, who was stationed at the + bows, "what has been damaged?" + </p> + <p> + "The bowsprit broken." + </p> + <p> + "Any wounded?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "Well, then, the masts may go to Jericho. Straight into the pass! + Straight! and steer towards the island." + </p> + <p> + "We have passed the Rebs!" cried Crockston; "and, if we must have balls in + our hull, I would much rather have the Northerners; they are more easily + digested." + </p> + <p> + In fact, the <i>Dolphin</i> could not yet consider herself out of danger; + for, if Morris Island was not fortified with the formidable pieces of + artillery which were placed there a few months later, nevertheless its + guns and mortars could easily have sunk a ship like the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + The alarm had been given to the Federals on the island, and to the + blockading squadron, by the firing from Forts Sumter and Moultrie. The + besiegers could not make out the reason of this night attack; it did not + seem to be directed against them. However, they were obliged to consider + it so, and were ready to reply. + </p> + <p> + It occupied James Playfair's thoughts whilst making towards the passes of + Morris Island; and he had reason to fear, for in a quarter of an hour's + time lights gleamed rapidly through the darkness. A shower of small shell + fell round the steamer, scattering the water over her bulwarks; some of + them even struck the deck of the <i>Dolphin</i>, but not on their points, + which saved the ship from certain ruin. In fact, these shell, as it was + afterwards discovered, could break into a hundred fragments, and each + cover a superficial area of a hundred and twenty square feet with Greek + fire, which would burn for twenty minutes, and nothing could extinguish + it. One of these shell alone could set a ship on fire. Fortunately for the + <i>Dolphin</i>, they were a new invention, and as yet far from perfect. + Once thrown into the air, a false rotary movement kept them inclined, and, + when falling, instead of striking on their points, where is the percussion + apparatus, they fell flat. This defect in construction alone saved the <i>Dolphin</i>. + The falling of these shells did her little harm, and under the pressure of + her over-heated boilers she continued to advance into the pass. + </p> + <p> + At this moment, and in spite of his orders, Mr. Halliburtt and his + daughter went to James Playfair on the poop; the latter urged them to + return to their cabins, but Jenny declared that she would remain by the + Captain. As for Mr. Halliburtt, who had just learnt all the noble conduct + of his deliverer, he pressed his hand without being able to utter a word. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Dolphin</i> was speeding rapidly towards the open sea. There were + only three miles more before she would be in the waters of the Atlantic; + if the pass was free at its entrance, she was saved. James Playfair was + wonderfully well acquainted with all the secrets of Charleston Bay, and he + guided his ship through the darkness with an unerring hand. He was + beginning to think his daring enterprise successful, when a sailor on the + forecastle cried: + </p> + <p> + "A ship!" + </p> + <p> + "A ship?" cried James. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, on the larboard side." + </p> + <p> + The fog had cleared off, and a large frigate was seen making towards the + pass, in order to obstruct the passage of the <i>Dolphin</i>. It was + necessary, cost what it might, to distance her, and urge the steam-engine + to an increase of speed, or all was lost. + </p> + <p> + "Port the helm at once!" cried the Captain. + </p> + <p> + Then he sprang on to the bridge above the engine. By his orders one of the + screws was stopped, and under the action of the other the <i>Dolphin</i>, + veering with an extraordinary rapidity, avoided running foul of the + frigate, and advanced like her to the entrance of the pass. It was now a + question of speed. + </p> + <p> + James Playfair understood that in this lay his own safety, Miss Jenny's, + her father's, and that of all his crew. + </p> + <p> + The frigate was considerably in advance of the <i>Dolphin</i>. It was + evident from the volumes of black smoke issuing from her chimneys that she + was getting up her steam. James Playfair was not the man to be left in the + background. + </p> + <p> + "How are the engines?" cried he to the engineer. + </p> + <p> + "At the maximum speed," replied the latter; "the steam is escaping by all + the valves." + </p> + <p> + "Fasten them down," ordered the Captain. + </p> + <p> + And his orders were executed at the risk of blowing up the ship. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Dolphin</i> again increased her speed; the pistons worked with + frightful rapidity; the metal plates on which the engine was placed + trembled under the terrific force of their blows. It was a sight to make + the boldest shudder. + </p> + <p> + "More pressure!" cried James Playfair; "put on more pressure!" + </p> + <p> + "Impossible!" replied the engineer. "The valves are tightly closed; our + furnaces are full up to the mouths." + </p> + <p> + "What difference! Fill them with cotton soaked in spirits; we must pass + that frigate at any price." + </p> + <p> + At these words the most daring of the sailors looked at each other, but + did not hesitate. Some bales of cotton were thrown into the engine-room, a + barrel of spirits broached over them, and this expensive fuel placed, not + without danger, in the red-hot furnaces. The stokers could no longer hear + each other speak for the roaring of the flames. Soon the metal plates of + the furnaces became red-hot; the pistons worked like the pistons of a + locomotive; the steamgauge showed a frightful tension; the steamer flew + over the water; her boards creaked, and her chimneys threw out volumes of + smoke mingled with flames. She was going at a headlong speed, but, + nevertheless, she was gaining on the frigate-passed her, distanced her, + and in ten minutes was out of the channel. + </p> + <p> + "Saved!" cried the Captain. + </p> + <p> + "Saved!" echoed the crew, clapping their hands. + </p> + <p> + Already the Charleston beacon was disappearing in the south-west; the + sound of firing from the batteries grew fainter, and it might with reason + be thought that the danger was all past, when a shell from a gun-boat + cruising at large was hurled whizzing through the air. It was easy to + trace its course, thanks to the line of fire which followed it. + </p> + <p> + Then was a moment of anxiety impossible to describe; every one was silent, + and each watched fearfully the arch described by the projectile. Nothing + could be done to escape it, and in a few seconds it fell with a frightful + noise on the fore-deck of the <i>Dolphin</i>. + </p> + <p> + The terrified sailors crowded to the stern, and no one dared move a step, + whilst the shell was burning with a brisk crackle. + </p> + <p> + But one brave man alone among them ran up to the formidable weapon of + destruction. It was Crockston; he took the shell in his strong arms, + whilst showers of sparks were falling from it; then, with a superhuman + effort, he threw it overboard. + </p> + <p> + Hardly had the shell reached the surface of the water when it burst with a + frightful report. + </p> + <p> + "Hurrah! hurrah!" cried the whole crew of the <i>Dolphin</i> unanimously, + whilst Crockston rubbed his hands. + </p> + <p> + Some time later the steamer sped rapidly through the waters of the + Atlantic; the American coast disappeared in the darkness, and the distant + lights which shot across the horizon indicated that the attack was general + between the batteries of Morris Island and the forts of Charleston + Harbour. + </p> + <p> + <a name="X" id="X"></a </a> + </p> + <h4> + Chapter X + </h4> + <h4> + ST. MUNGO + </h4> + <p> + The next day at sunrise the American coast had disappeared; not a ship was + visible on the horizon, and the <i>Dolphin</i>, moderating the frightful + rapidity of her speed, made quietly towards the Bermudas. + </p> + <p> + It is useless to recount the passage across the Atlantic, which was marked + by no accidents, and ten days after the departure from Queenstown the + French coast was hailed. + </p> + <p> + What passed between the Captain and the young girl may be imagined, even + by the least observant individuals. How could Mr. Halliburtt acknowledge + the devotion and courage of his deliverer, if it was not by making him the + happiest of men? James Playfair did not wait for English seas to declare + to the father and daughter the sentiments which overflowed his heart, and, + if Crockston is to be believed, Miss Jenny received his confession with a + happiness she did not try to conceal. + </p> + <p> + Thus it happened that on the 14th of February, 18-, a numerous crowd was + collected in the dim aisles of St. Mungo, the old cathedral of Glasgow. + There were seamen, merchants, manufacturers, magistrates, and some of + every denomination gathered here. There was Miss Jenny in bridal array and + beside her the worthy Crockston, resplendent in apple-green clothes, with + gold buttons, whilst Uncle Vincent stood proudly by his nephew. + </p> + <p> + In short, they were celebrating the marriage of James Playfair, of the + firm of Vincent Playfair & Co., of Glasgow, with Miss Jenny + Halliburtt, of Boston. + </p> + <p> + The ceremony was accomplished amidst great pomp. Everyone knew the history + of the <i>Dolphin</i>, and everyone thought the young Captain well + recompensed for his devotion. He alone said that his reward was greater + than he deserved. + </p> + <p> + In the evening there was a grand ball and banquet at Uncle Vincent's + house, with a large distribution of shillings to the crowd collected in + Gordon Street. Crockston did ample justice to this memorable feast, while + keeping himself perfectly within bounds. + </p> + <p> + Everyone was happy at this wedding; some at their own happiness, and + others at the happiness around them, which is not always the case at + ceremonies of this kind. + </p> + <p> + Late in the evening, when the guests had retired, James Playfair took his + uncle's hand. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Uncle Vincent," said he to him. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Nephew James?" + </p> + <p> + "Are you pleased with the charming cargo I brought you on board the <i>Dolphin</i>?" + continued Captain Playfair, showing him his brave young wife. + </p> + <p> + "I am quite satisfied," replied the worthy merchant; "I have sold my + cotton at three hundred and seventy-five per cent. profit." + </p> + <h4> + End of The Blockade Runners + </h4> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Blockade Runners, by Jules Verne + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BLOCKADE RUNNERS *** + +***** This file should be named 8992-h.htm or 8992-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/8/9/9/8992/ + +Produced by Norman M. 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