 Chapter 26 In which our hero becomes excessively unwell and agrees to go through a course of medicine. The hammocks were not piped down that night. Some were taken indiscriminately for the wounded, but the rest remained in the nettings, for all hands were busy preparing jury masts and jury rigging, and Mr. Potifar was so well employed that for twelve hours his hands were not in his pockets. It was indeed a dreadful night. The waves were mountains high, and chased the frigate in their fury, cresting, breaking and roaring at her taff rail, but she flew before them with the wings of the wind, four men at the helm assisted by others at the relieving tackles below. Jack, having been thanked on and washed off the quarter-deck, thought that he had done quite enough. He was as deep as he could swim before he had satisfied all the scruples of the chaplain, and stowing himself away on one of the lockers of the midshipman's berth was soon fast asleep, notwithstanding that the frigate rolled gunnel under. Gascoine had done much better. He had taken down a hammock, as he said, for a poor wounded man, hung it up and turned in himself. The consequence was that the next morning the surgeon who saw him lying in the hammock had put him down in the report, but Gascoine had got up as well as ever. He laughed and scratched his name out of the list of wounded. Before morning the ship had been pumped out dry, and all below made as secure and safe as circumstances would permit, but the gale still continued its violence, and there was anything but comfort on board. "'I say, Martin, you ought to be thrown overboard,' said Gascoine. "'All this comes from your croaking, you're a mother-carry's chicken.' "'I wish I'd been any one's chicken,' replied Martin, but the devil a thing to nestle under have I had since I can well remember.' "'What a bore to have no galley-fire lighted,' said one of the youngsters. "'No tea, and not allowed any grog.' "'The gale will last three days,' replied Martin, and by that time we shall not be far from the admiral. It won't blow home there.' "'Well, then, we shall be ordered indirectly, and I shall go on shore tomorrow,' replied easy. "'Yes, if you're ill,' replied Gascoine. "'Never fear, I shall be sick enough. We shall be there at least six weeks, and then we'll forget all this.' "'Yes,' replied Martin, we may forget it, but will the poor fellows whose limbs are shriveled forget it, and will poor Miles the boson who is blind for ever?' "'Very true, Martin, we are thinking about ourselves, not thankful for our escape, and not feeling for others,' replied Gascoine. "'Give us your hand, Ned,' said Jack easy, and Martin, we ought to thank you for telling us the truth. We are a selfish set of fellows.' "'But we took our share with the others,' replied one of the midshipmen. "'That is more reason for us to be grateful and to pity them,' replied Jack. "'Suppose you had lost your arm or your eyesight. We would have pityed you, so now pity others.' "'Well, so I do. Now I think of it.' "'Think often a youngster,' answered Martin, going on deck. "'What a change from the morning of the day before!' But twenty-four hours had passed away, and the sea had been smooth, the frigate dashed through the blue water, proud in all her canvas, graceful as a swan. Since that there had been a fire, tempest, lightning, disaster, danger and death. Her masts were tossed about on the snowy waves hundreds of miles away from her, and she, a wreck, was rolling heavily, groaning and complaining in every timber as she urged her impetuous race with a furious running sea. How wrong are those on shore who assert that sailors are not religious? How is it possible, supposing them to be possessed of feeling, to be otherwise? On shore where you have nothing but the change of seasons, each in its own particular beauty, nothing but the blessings of the earth, its fruits, its flowers, nothing but the bounty, the comforts, the luxuries which have been invented, where you can rise in the morning in peace, and lay down your head at night in security. God may be neglected and forgotten for a long time, but at sea, when each gale is a warning, each disaster acts as a check, each escape as a homily upon the forbearance of providence. That man must indeed be brutalised, who does not feel that God is there. On shore we seldom view him but in all his beauty and kindness, but at sea we are as often reminded how terrible he is in his wrath. Can it be supposed that the occurrences of the last twenty-four hours were lost upon the minds of any one man in that ship? No, no. In their courage and activity they might appear reckless, but in their hearts they acknowledged and bowed unto their God. Before the day was over a jewellery formast had been got up, and sail having been put upon it the ship was steered with greater ease and safety. The main brace had been spliced to cheer up the exhausted crew, and the hammocks were piped down. As Gaskine had observed some of the men were not very much pleased to find that they were minus their blankets, but Captain Wilson ordered their losses to be supplied by the Persa and expended by the Master. So this quite altered the case, as they obtained new blankets in most cases for old ones, but still it was impossible to light the galley fire, and the men sat on their chests and nibbled biscuit. By twelve o'clock that night the gale broke, and more sail was necessarily put on the scudding vessels, for the sea still ran fast and mountains high. At daylight the sun burst out and shone brightly on them. The sea went gradually down. The fire was lighted, and Mr. Potifar, whose hands were again in his pockets, at twelve o'clock, gave the welcome order to pipe to dinner. As soon as the men had eaten their dinner the frigate was once more brought to the wind, her jury-master ford improved upon, and more sail made upon it. The next morning there was nothing of the gale left except the dire effects which it had produced. The black and riven stump of the foremaster still holding up a terrific warning of the power and fury of the elements. Three days more and the aurora joined the Toulon fleet. When she was first seen it was imagined by those on board of the other ships that she had been in action, but they soon learnt that the conflict had been against more direful weapons than any yet invented by mortal hands. Captain Wilson waited upon the abral, and of course received immediate orders to repair to port and refit. In a few hours the aurora had shaped her course for Malta, and by sunset the Toulon fleet were no longer in sight. Boy, the holy poker-master easy, but that terrible sort of galed other day anyhow, I think one time we all go to Davy Joanie's locker. Very true, Mestie. I hope never to meet with such another. Den, master easy, why you go to sea? When man have no money, notten to eat, den he go to sea. But everybody say you have plenty money. Why you come to sea? I'm sure I don't know, replied Jack thoughtfully. I came to see on account of equality and the rights of man. Ah, master easy, you come to wrong place anyhow. Now we think a good deal lately, and by all the power I think equality all stuff. All stuff, Mestie? Why? You used to think otherwise. Yes, master easy, but den I boil the kettle for all young gentlemen. Now that I ship's corporal and have cane, I think so no longer. Jack made no reply, but he thought the more. The reader must have perceived that Jack's notions of equality were rapidly disappearing. He defended the more from habit, and perhaps a willfulness which would not allow him to acknowledge himself wrong, to which may be added his love of argument. Already he had accustomed himself to obedience of his superiors, and notwithstanding his arguments he would admit of no resistance from those below him. Not that it was hardly ever attempted, for Jack was anything but a tyrant and was much beloved by all in the ship. Every day brought its lesson, and Captain Wilson was now satisfied that Jack had been almost cured of the effects of his father's ridiculous philosophy. After a few minutes, Mestie tapped his cane on the funnel and recommenced. Den, why you stay at sea, master easy? I don't know, Mestie. I don't dislike it. But master easy, why you stay in midshipmen birth? Eat hard biscuit, salt pig, salt horse, when you can go ashore, and live like gentlemen. That very foolish. Why not be your own master? By odd a power, suppose I had money, catch me board ship. Little sea, very good, Mestie easy, open one's eyes, but think of the lightning t'other night. Poor Mestie bosen, he shut him eyes for ever. Very true, Mestie. Me hope you think of this, sir, and when you go ashore, you take Mestie with you. He serve you well, master easy, long as he live by the Holy Saint Patrick. And then, master easy, you marry wife. Have pecanine, live like gentlemen. You tinker this, master easy. The mention of the word marriage turned the thoughts of our hero to his agnes, and he made no reply. Mestie walked away, leaving our hero in deep thought. This conversation had more effect upon Jack than would have been imagined, and he very often found he was putting to himself the question of Mestie, why do you stay at sea? He had not entered the service with any particular view, except to find equality, and he could not but acknowledge to himself that, as Mestie observed, he had come to the wrong place. He had never even thought of staying to serve his time, nor had he looked forward to promotion, and one day commanding a ship. He had only cared for the present, without indulging in a future anticipation of any reward, except in a union with agnes. Mestie's observations occasioned Jack to reflect upon the future for the first time in his life, and he was always perplexed when he put the question of Mestie, and tried to answer to himself as to what were his intentions in remaining in the service. Nevertheless, Jack did his duty very much to the satisfaction of Mr. Potiphar, and after a tedious passage from baffling and light winds, the aurora arrived at Malta. Our hero had had some conversation with his friend Gascoigne, in which he canvassed his future plans, all of which, however, ended in one settled point, which was that he was to marry Agnes. As for the rest, Gascoigne was an opinion that Jack ought to follow up the service and become a captain, but there was plenty of time to think about that, as he observed. Now all they had to consider was how to get on shore, for the refitting of the ship was an excuse for detaining them on board, which they knew Mr. Potiphar would avail himself of. Jack dined in the gun room on the day of their arrival, and he resolved that he would ask that very evening. Captain Wilson was already on shore at the governor's. Now they had been a little difference of opinion between Mr. Potiphar and Mr. Hawkins the chaplain on a point of seamanship, and most of the officers sided with the chaplain, who, as we have before observed, was a first-rate seamen. It had ended in high words, for Mr. Hawkins had forgotten himself so far as to tell the First Lieutenant that he had a great deal to learn, not having even got over the midshipman's trick of keeping his hands in his pockets. When Mr. Potiphar had replied that it was very well for him as chaplain to insult others, knowing that his cassock protected him. This was a bitter reply to Mr. Hawkins, who, at the very time that the insinuation made his blood boil, was also reminded that his profession forbade a retort. He rushed into his cabin, poor fellow, having no other method left, vented his indignation in tears, and then consoled himself by degrees with prayer. In the meantime Mr. Potiphar had gone on deck, wroth with Hawkins and with his mess-mates, as well as displeased with himself. He was indeed in a humour to be pleased with nobody, and in a most unfortunate humour to be asked to leave by a midshipman. Nevertheless, Jack politely took off his hat and requested leave to go on shore and see his friend the governor, upon which Mr. Potiphar turned round to him, with his feet spread wide open and thrusting his hands to the very bottom of his pockets, as if in determination said, Mr. Easy, you know the state of the ship, we have everything to do. New masks, new rigging, everything almost to refit, and yet you ask to go on shore. Now, sir, you may take this answer for yourself and all the other midshipmen in the ship, that not one soul of you puts his foot on shore until we are again all a toronto. Allow me to observe, sir, said our hero, that it is very true that all our services may be required when the duty commences, but this being Saturday night and tomorrow Sunday, the frigate will not be even moved till Monday morning, and as the work cannot begin before that, I trust you will permit me leave until that time. My opinion is different, sir, replied the First Lieutenant. Perhaps, sir, you will allow me to argue the point, replied Jack. No, sir, I never allow argument. Walk over to the other side of the deck, if you please. Oh, certainly, sir, said Jack, if you wish it. Jack's first idea was to go on shore without leave, but from this he was persuaded by Gascoigne, who told him that it would displease Captain Wilson, and that old Tom the Governor would not receive him. Jack agreed to this, and then, after a flourish about the rights of man, tyranny, oppression, and so forth, he walked forward to the folksle, where he found his friend, Mesti, who had heard all that had passed, and who insidiously said to him in a low tone, Why, you stay at sea, Master Easy. Why, indeed, thought Jack, boiling with indignation, to be cooped up here at the will of another. I am a fool. Mesti is right. I'll ask for my discharge to-morrow. Jack went down below, and told Gascoigne what he determined to do. You'll do no such thing, Jack, replied Gascoigne. Depend upon it. You'll have plenty of leave in a day or two. Potty-far was in a pet with the chaplain, who was too much for him. Captain Wilson will be on board at nine o'clock. Nevertheless, Jack walked his first watch with the magnificence, as all biddies do when they cannot go on shore, and turned in at twelve o'clock with the resolution of sticking to his purpose, and quitting his Majesty's service, in fact, of presenting his Majesty with his between two and three years' time, served as Midshipmen, all free, greatest, and for nothing, except his provisions and his pay, which some captains are bold enough to assert that they not only are not worth, but not even the salt that accompanies it, forgetting that they were once Midshipmen themselves, and at the period were, of course, of about the same value. The next morning Captain Wilson came off. The ship's company were mustered. The service read by Mr Hawkins and Jack, as soon as all the official duties were over, was about to go up to the Captain, when the Captain said to him, Ah, Mr Easy, the Governor desired me to bring you on shore to dine with him, and he has a bed at your service. Jack touched his hat and ran down below to make his few preparations. By the time that Mesty, who had taken charge of his chest, etc., had put his necessaries in the boat, Jack had almost made up his mind that his majesty should not be deprived yet a while of so valuable an officer. Jack returned on deck and found that the Captain was not yet ready. He went up to Mr Potifar and told him that the Captain had ordered him to go on shore with him, and Mr Potifar, who had quite got over his spleen, said, Very well, Mr Easy, I wish you a great deal of pleasure. This is very different from yesterday, thought Jack. Suppose I try the medicine. Um, I am not very well, Mr Potifar, and those pills of the doctors don't agree with me. I always am ill if I am long without air and exercise. Very true, said the First Lieutenant. People require air and exercise. I have no opinion of the doctor's remedies. The only thing that is worth a farthing is the universal medicine. I should so long to try it, sir, replied Jack. I read the book one day and it said that if you took it daily for a fortnight or three weeks and with plenty of air and exercise it would do wonders. And it's very true, replied Mr Potifar, and if you'd like to try it, you shall. I have plenty, shall I give you a dose now? If you please, sir, replied Jack, and tell me how often I am to take it for my head aches all day. Mr Potifar took Jack down and, putting into his hand a three or four bottles of the preparation, told him that he was to take thirty drops at night when he went to bed, not to drink more than two glasses of wine, and to avoid the heat of the sun. But, sir, replied Jack, who had put the bottles in his pocket, I'm afraid that I cannot take it long, for as the ship is ready for fitting I shall be exposed to the sun all day. Yes, if you are wanted, Mr Easy, but we have plenty here without you, and when you are unwell you cannot be expected to work, take care of your health, and I trust indeed I am sure that you will find this medicine wonderfully efficacious. I will begin tonight, sir, if you please, replied Jack, and I am very much obliged to you. I sleep at the Governor's, shall I come on board tomorrow morning? No, no, take care of yourself and get well, I shall be glad to hear that you get better, send me word how it acts. I will, sir, send you word by the boat every day, replied Jack, delighted. I am very much obliged to you, sir, Gascoyne and I were thinking of asking you, but did not like to do so. He, poor fellow, suffers from headaches almost as bad as I do, and the doctor's pills are of no use to him. He shall have some too, Mr Easy, I thought he looked pale. I'll see to it this afternoon. Recollect, moderate exercise, Mr Easy, and avoid the sun at midday. Yes, sir, replied Jack, I'll not forget. And off went Jack, delighted. He ordered Messy to put up his whole portmanteau instead of the small bundle he had put into the boat, and telling Gascoyne what a spoke he had put into his wheel was soon in the boat with the captain, and went on shore where he was cordially greeted by the governor. End of Chapter 26 Chapter 27 of Mr Midshipman Easy This is a LibriVox recording, or LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Mr Midshipman Easy by Captain Frank Marriott, read by Adrian Pretzelis. Chapter 27, in which Captain Wilson is repaid with interest for Jack's borrowing his name, proving that a good name is as good as a legacy. Well, Jack, my boy, have you any long story ready for me? inquired the governor. Yes, sir, replied Jack, I have one or two very good ones. Very well, we'll hear them after dinner, replied old Tom. In the meantime, find out your room and take possession. That must not be for very long, Governor, observed Captain Wilson. Mr Easy must learn his duty, and there is a good opportunity now. If you please, sir, replied Jack, I'm on the sick list. said Captain Wilson. You were not in the report I was given this morning. No, I'm on Mr Potifar's list, and I'm going through a course of the Universal Medicine. What's all this, Jack? What's all this? There's some story here. Don't be afraid of the Captain. You've got me to back you, said the governor. Jack was not at all afraid of the Captain, so he told him how the First Lieutenant had refused him leave the evening before, and how he had now given him permission to remain and try the Universal Medicine, at which the governor laughed heartily, nor could Captain Wilson refrain from joining. But Mr Easy replied the Captain after a pause. If Mr Potifar will allow you to stay on shore, I cannot. You have your duty to learn. You must be aware that now is your time, and you must not lose opportunities that do not occur every day. You must acknowledge the truth of what I say. Yes, sir, replied Jack. I admit it all, provided I do intend to follow the profession. And so saying a hero bowed, and left the veranda where they had been talking. This hint of Jack's thrown out by him, more with the intention of prevent him being sent on board than with any definite idea, was not lost upon either the Captain or the governor. Does he jib then? observed the governor. On the contrary, I never knew him more attentive, and so entirely getting rid of his former notions. He has behaved most nobly in the gale, and there has not been one complaint against him. I never was more astonished. He must have meant something. I'll tell you what he means, Wilson, that he does not like to be sent on board nothing more. He's not to be cooped up. You may lead him, but not drive him. Yes, but the service will not admit of it. I never could allow it. He must do his duty like the rest, and conform to the rules. Exactly. So he must, but look, you Wilson, you must not lose him. It's all easily settled. Appoint him your orderly midshipman to and from the ship. That will be appointment, and he can always remain here at night. I will tell him that I have asked, as a favour, what I now do, and leave me to find out what he is thinking. It may be done that way, certainly," replied Captain Wilson, musing, �and you are more likely to get his intentions from him than I am. I am afraid he has too great a command of money ever to be fond of the ship. It is the ruin of a junior officer to be so lavishly supplied. He's a long way from ruined yet, Wilson. He's a very fine fellow, even by your own acknowledgement. You humoured him out of gratitude to his father when he first came into the service. Humour him a little now to keep him in it. Besides, if your first lieutenant is such a fool with his universal medicine, can you wonder at a midshipman taking advantage of it? No, but I ought not allow him to do so with my eyes open. He has made it known to you upon honour, and you ought not take advantage of his confidence. But still, what I proposed would, I think, be the best. For then he will be at his duty in a way that will suit all parties. You, because you employ him on service, the first lieutenant, because Jack can take his medicine, and Jack, because he can dine with me every day. �Well, I suppose it must be so?� replied Captain Wilson, laughing. �But still, I trust you will discover what is working in his mind to induce him to give me that answer, Governor. Never fear, Jack shall confess, and lay his soul as bare as that of a Catholic bigot before his Padre.� The party sat down to dinner, and, what with the Governor's aide-de-camp, and those invited, it was pretty numerous. After the cloth had been removed, the Governor called upon Jack for his stories, whereupon, much to the surprise of Captain Wilson, who had never heard one word of it, for the admiral had not mentioned anything about it to him during the short time the aurora was with the Toulon fleet, our hero gave the Governor and Company the narrative of all that happened in the Marianne transport. The loves of Captain Hogg and Miss Hicks, the adventures of Gascoyne, and his plan, by which he bulked them all. The Governor was delighted, and Captain Wilson not a little astonished. �You prevented a very foolish thing, Mr. Easy, and behaved very well,� observed the Captain, laughing again at the idea. �But you never told me of all this.� �No, sir,� replied Jack. �I have always reserved my stories for the Governor's table, where I am sure to meet you, and then telling them once does for all.� Jack received his appointment as orderly midshipman, and everything went on well, for, of his own accord, he stayed on board the major part of the day to learn his duty, which very much pleased the Captain and Mr. Potifar. In this Jack showed a great deal of good sense, and Captain Wilson did not repent of the indulgence he had shown him. Jack's health improved daily, much to Mr. Potifar's satisfaction, who imagined that he took the universal medicine night and morning. Gascoyne also was a patient under the First Lieutenant's hands, and often on shore with our hero, who thought no more of quitting the service. For seven weeks they had now remained in harbour, for even the masts had to be made, when, one day, Captain Wilson opened a letter he received at breakfast time, and, having read it, laid it down with the greatest surprise depicted in his countenance. �Good heavens, what can this mean?� said he. �What's the matter, Wilson?� said the Governor. �Just hear its contents, Sir Thomas.� Captain Wilson read in Spanish, as followed, �Honorable Sir, it is my duty to advise you that the Honourable Lady Senora Alfogos de Guzmán, now deceased, has, in her testament, bequeathed to you the sum of one thousand doubloons in gold, as a testimony of your kind services on the night of the 12th of August. You will authorise any merchant here to receive the money. It shall be paid forthwith, or omitted in any way you please to appoint. May you live a thousand years. Your most obedient servant, Alfonso Hereth. Jack heard the letter read, rose quietly, whistled low, as if not attending to it, and then slipped out of the room unperceived by the Governor or Captain Wilson. The fact was that, although Jack had longed to tell the Governor about his adventures after the masquerade, he did not like yet a while, until he was sure that there were no consequences, because he had given the Captain's name instead of his own. As soon as he heard the letter read, he had once perceived that it had been the old lady and not the priests who had made the inquiry, and that by giving Captain Wilson's name he had obtained for him this fine legacy. Jack was delighted, but still puzzled, so he walked out of the room to reflect a little. What can it mean? said Captain Wilson. I never rendered any services to any one on the 12th of August, or after it. It is some stake. 12th of August. That was the day of the Grand Masquerade. A lucky one for you by all events. For you know, Miss Stacor, not no one else can touch the legacy. It can only be paid to you. I never heard of anything taking place at the masquerade. I was there, but I left early, for I was not well. Mr. Easy, said Captain Wilson, turning round. But Jack was gone. Was he at the masquerade? asked the Governor. Yes, I know he was. For the first Lieutenant told me he requested not to come on board till the next day. Depend upon it, replied the Governor, striking his fist upon the table. That Jack's at the bottom of it. I should not be surprised that he's being at the bottom of anything, replied Captain Wilson, laughing. Leave it to me, Wilson. I'll find out. After a little more conversation, Captain Wilson went on board, leaving Jack on purpose that the Governor might pump him. But this, Sir Thomas had no occasion to do, for Jack had made up his mind to make the Governor his confidant, and he immediately told him the whole story. The Governor held his sides at our hero's description, especially at his ruse of giving the Captain's name instead of his own. You'll kill me, Jack, before you're done with me, said Old Thomas last. But now what is to be done? Our hero now became grave. He pointed out to the Governor that he himself had plenty of money, and would come into a large fortune, and that Captain Wilson was poor, with a large family. All Jack wanted the Governor to manage was that Captain Wilson might consent to accept the legacy. Right boy, right, you're my own boy, replied the Governor. But we must think of this, for Wilson is the very soul of honor, and there might be some difficulty about it. Have you told nobody? Not a soul but you, Sir Thomas. It will never do to tell him all this, Jack, for he would insist the legacy belonged to you. I have it, sir, replied Jack. When I was going into the masquerade, I offered my hand to this very old lady who was covered in diamonds out of her carriage, and she was so frightened of my dress of the devil that she would have fallen down had it not been for Captain Wilson who supported her, and she was very thankful to him. You are right, Jack, replied the Governor after a short pause. That will, I think, do. I must tell him the story of the friars, because I swore you had something to do with it. But I'll tell him no more. Leave it all to me. Captain Wilson returned in the afternoon and found the Governor on the veranda. I have had some talk with young Easy, said the Governor, and he has told me a strange story about that night, which he was afraid to tell to everybody. The Governor then narrated the history of the friars and the will. Well, but, observed Captain Wilson, the history of that will afford no clue to the legacy. No, it does not. But still, as I said, Jack had a hand in this. He frightened the old lady as a devil, and you caught her in your arms and saved her from falling. So he had a hand in it, you see. I do now remember that I did save a very dowager-like old personage from falling at the sight of a devil, who, of course, must have been our friend Easy. Well, and that accounts for the whole of it. A thousand doubloons for picking up an old lady. Yes, why not? Have you not heard of a man having a fortune left him for merely opening the pew-door of a church to an old gentleman? Yes, but it appears so strange. There's nothing strange in this world, Wilson. Nothing at all. We may slave for years, and get no reward, and do a trifle out of politeness, and become independent. In my opinion, this mystery is unraveled. The old lady, for I knew the family, must have died immensely rich. She knew you in your full uniform, and she asked your name. A heavy four would have been to one so fat a most serious affair. You saved her, and she has rewarded you handsomely. Well, replied Captain Wilson, as I can give no other explanation, I suppose yours is the correct one. But it's hardly fair to take a thousand doubloons from her relations merely for an act of civility. You really are quite ridiculous. The old lady owned half-mercia, to my knowledge. It is no more to them than anyone leaving you a suit of mourning in an English legacy. I wish you joy. It will help you with a large family, and, in justice to them, you are bound to take it. Everybody does as he pleases with his own money. Depend upon it. You saved her from breaking her leg, short off for the hip joint. Upon that supposition, I presume I must accept of the legacy, replied Captain Wilson, laughing. Of course, send for it at once. The rate of exchange is now high. I will give you government bills, which will make it nearly four thousand pounds. Four thousand pounds? For preventing an old woman from falling, replied Captain Wilson, devilishly well paid, Wilson, and I congratulate you. For how much am I indebted to the father of young easy? observed Captain Wilson after a silence of some minutes. If he had not assisted me when I was appointed to a ship, I should not have gained my promotion, nor three thousand pounds I have made in prize money, the command of a fine frigate, and now four thousand pounds in a windfall. The Governor thought he was more indebted to Jack than to his father for some of these advantages, but he was careful not to point them out. It's very true, observed the Governor, that Mr. Easy was of service to you when you were appointed. But allow me to observe that for your ship, your prize money, and for your windfall, you have been wholly indebted to your own gallantry, in both senses of the word. Still, Mr. Easy is a fine, generous fellow, and so is his son, I can tell you. By the by I had a long conversation with him the other day. About himself? Yes, all about himself. He appears to me to have come into the service without any particular motive, and will be just as likely to leave it in the same way. He appears to be very much in love with that Sicilian nobleman's daughter. I find that he has written to her and to her brother since he has been here. That he came into the service, in search of what he never will find in this world, I know very well, and I presume that he has found that out, and that he will follow up the service is also very doubtful. But I do not wish that he should leave it yet. It is doing him a great good, replied Captain Wilson. I agree with you there. I have a great influence with him, and he shall stay yet a while. He is heir to a very large fortune, is he not? A clear eight thousand pounds a year, if not more. If his father dies, he must, of course, leave. A midshipman with eight thousand pounds a year would indeed be an anomaly. That the service could not permit. It would be as injurious to himself as it would to others about him. At present he has almost indeed, I may say, quite an unlimited command of money. That's bad, very bad. I wonder he behaves so well as he does. And so do I. But he really is a very superior lad, with all his peculiarities, and a general favourite with those whose opinions and friendship are worth having. Well, don't curb him too tight, for really he does not require it. He goes very well in a snaffle. End of Chapter 27, Chapter 28 of Mr. Midshipman Easy. Chapter 28. To be made easy upon agrarian principles, the subject of some uneasiness to our hero, the first appearance, but not the last, of an important personage. The conversation was here interrupted by a male from England, which they had been expecting. Captain Wilson retired with his letters, the governor remained equally occupied, and our hero received the first letter ever written to him by his father. It ran as follows. My dear son! I have many times taken up my pen with the intention of letting you know how things went on in this country. But as I can perceive around but one dark horizon of evil, I have as often laid it down again without venturing to make you unhappy with such bad intelligence. The account of your death and also of your unexpectedly being yet spared to us were duly received, and, I trust, I mourned and rejoiced on each occasion with all the moderation characteristic of a philosopher. In the first instance I consoled myself with the reflection the world you had left was in a state of slavery, and pressed down by the iron arm of despotism, and that to die was gain, not only in all the past and tells us, but also in our liberty. And at the second intelligence I moderated my joy for nearly about the same reasons, resolving, notwithstanding what Dr. Middleton may say, to die as I have lived, a true philosopher. The more I reflect, the more I am convinced that there is nothing required to make this world happy but equality, and the rights of man being duly observed. In short, that everything and every body should be reduced to one level. Do we not observe that it is the law of nature? Do not brooks run into rivers, or rivers into seas, mountains crumble down upon the plains, or not the seasons contented to equalize the parts of the earth? Why does the sun run round the ecliptic instead of the equator, but to give an equal share of his heat to both sides of the world? Are we not all equally born in misery? Does not death level us all aqueopidae as the poet hath? Are we not all equally hungry, thirsty and sleepy, and thus leveled by unnatural wants? And such being the case, ought we not to have our equal share of all good things in this world, to which we have undoubted equal rights? Can any argument be more solid or more level than this, whatever nonsense Dr. Middleton may talk? Yes, my son, if it were not that I still hope to see the sun of justice arise, and disperse the manifold dark clouds which obscure the land, if I did not still hope, in my time, to see an equal distribution of property, an agrarian law passed by the House of Commons in which all should benefit alike, I would not care how soon I left this veil of tears created by tyranny and injustice. At present the same system is carried on. The nation is taxed for the benefit of the few, and it groans under oppression and despotism. But I still do think that there is, if I may fortunately express myself, a bright star in the west, and signs of the time which comfort me. Already we have had a good deal of incendiarism about the country, and some of the highest aristocracy have pledged themselves to raise the people above themselves, and have advised sedition and conspiracy, and have shown to the debate stunned unenlightened multitude that their force is physically irresistible, and recommended them to make use of it, promising that if they hold in power they will only use that power to the abolition of our farce of a constitution of a church and of a king, and that if the nation is to be governed at all, it shall only be governed by the many. This is cheering, hail, patriot lords, all hail! I am in hope yet that the great work will be achieved, in spite of the laughs and sneers and shakes of the head, which my arguments still meet with from that obstant fellow, Dr. Middleton. Her mother is in a quiet way, she has given over reading and working and even her knitting as useless, and she now sits all day long at the chimney-corner, twiddling her thumbs and waiting, as she says, for the millennium. Poor thing, she is very foolish with her ideas about this matter. But as usual I let her have her own way in everything, copying the philosopher of old, who was tied to his zan-tipee. I trust, my dear son, that your principles have strengthened with your years and fortified with your growth, and that, if necessary, you will sacrifice all to obtain what, in my opinion, will prove to be the real millennium. Make all the converts you can, and believe me to be your affectionate father and true guide, Nicodemus Easy. Jack, who was alone, shook his head as he read this letter, and then laid it down with a pitch. He did it involuntarily, and was surprised at himself when he found that he had done so. I should like to argue the point, thought Jack, in spite of himself, and then he threw the letter on the table, and went into Gascoine's room, displeased with his father, and with himself. He asked Ned whether he had received any letters from England, and it, being near dinner-time, went back to dress. On his coming down into the receiving-room with Gascoine the governor said to them, As you both speak Italian you must take charge of a Sicilian officer who has come here with letters of introduction to me, and who dines here to-day. Before dinner they were introduced to the party in question, a slight maid, a well-looking young man, but still there was an expression in his countenance which was not agreeable. In compliance with the wishes of the governor, Don Matthias, for so he was called, was placed between our two midshipmen, who immediately entered into conversation with him, being themselves anxious to make inquiries about their friends at Palomo. In the course of conversation Jack inquired of him whether he was acquainted with Don Riviera, to which the Sicilian answered in the affirmative, and they talked about the different members of the family. Don Matthias, toward the close of the dinner, inquired of Jack by what means he had become acquainted with Don Riviera, and Jack, in reply, narrated how he and his friend Gascoine had saved him from being murdered by two villains. After this reply the young officer appeared to be less inclined for conversation, but before the party broke up requested to have the acquaintance of our two midshipmen. As soon as he was gone Gascoine observed in a reflective way, I have seen that face before, but where I cannot exactly say, but you know, Jack, what a memory of people I have, and I have seen him before, I am sure. I can't recollect that ever I have, replied our hero, but I never knew anyone who could recollect in that way as you do. The conversation was then dropped between them, and Jack was for some time listening to the Governor and Captain Wilson, for the whole party were gone away, when Gascoine, who had been in deep thought since he had made the observation to Jack, sprang up. I have him at last, cried he. Have who? demanded Captain Wilson. That's a silly officer. I could have sworn that I had seen him before. That's Don Matthias? Now, Sir Thomas, he is not a Don Matthias. He is the very Don Silvio who was murdering Don Ribiera when we came to his assistance and saved him. I do believe you are right, Gascoine. I am positive of it, replied Gascoine. I never made a mistake in my life. Bring me those letters easy, said the Governor, and let us see what they say of him. Here it is, Don Matthias de Allaeris. You may be mistaken, Gascoine, it is a heavy charge you are making against this young man. Well, Sir Thomas, if that is not a Don Silvio, I'd forfeit my commission if I had it here in my hand. Besides, I observed the change in his countenance when we told him it was easy and I who had come to Don Ribiera's presence. And did you observe that, after that easy, that he hardly said a word? Very true, replied Jack. Well, well, we must see to this, observed the Governor. If so, this letter of introduction must be a forgery. The party then retired to bed, and the next morning, while easy was in Gascoine's room talking over their suspicions, letters from Palermo were brought up to him. They were in answer to those written by Jack on his arrival at Malta. A few lines from Don Ribiera, a small note from Agnes, and a voluminous detail from his friend Don Philip, who informed him of the good health of all parties and of their goodwill towards him. Of Agnes, being as partial as ever, of his having spoken plainly, as he had promised Jack to his father and mother relative to the mutual attachment of their consent being given, and then withheld, because father Tomasso, their confessor, would not listen to the union of Agnes with a heretic. But nevertheless telling Jack that this would be got over through the medium of his brother and himself, who were determined that their sister and he should not be made unhappy about such a trifle. But the latter part of the letter contained intelligence equally important, which was that Don Silvio had again attempted the life of their father, and would have succeeded had not father Tomasso, who happened to be there, thrown himself between them. That Don Silvio, in his rage, had actually stabbed the confessor, although the wound was not dangerous. And in consequence of this, all further lenity was denied to him, and the authorities were in search of him to award him the punishment due to murder and sacrilege. That up to the present they could not find him, and it was supposed that he had made his escape to Malta in one of the Separnairs. Such were the contents of the letter, which were immediately communicated to the Governor and Captain Wilson upon their meeting at breakfast. Very well, we must see to this, observed the Governor, who then made his inquiries as to the other intelligence contained in the letters. Jack and Gascoigne were uneasy till the breakfast was over when they made their escape. A few moments afterwards Captain Wilson rose to go on board and sent for them, but they were not to be found. I understand it all, Wilson, said the Governor. Leave them to me. Go on board and make yourself quite easy. In the meantime our two midshipmen had taken their hats and walked away to the parapet of the battery, where they would not be interrupted. Now, Gascoigne, observed Jack, you guess what I'm about. I must shoot that rascal this very morning, and that's why I came out with you. But easy the only difference is this, that I must shoot him and not you. He is my property, for I found him out. We'll argue that point, replied Jack. He has attempted the life of my is-to-be, please God, father in law, and therefore I have the best claim to him. I beg your pardon, Jack. He is mine, for I discovered him. Now let me put a case. Suppose one man walking several yards before another picks up a purse. What claim has the other to it? I found him, and not you. That's all very well, Gascoigne. But suppose the purse you picked up to be mine. Then I have a right to it, although you found it. He is my bird by right, and not yours. But I have another observation to make, which is very important. He is a blood relative of Agnes, and if his blood is on your hands, however much he may deserve it, depend upon it, it will be raised as an obstacle to your union. Think of that. Jack paused in thought. And let me induce you by another remark. You will confer upon me a most particular favor. It will be the greatest I ever could, replied Jack, and you ought to be eternally indebted to me. I trust to make him eternally indebted to me, replied Gascoigne. Sailors, if going into action, always begin to reckon what their share of the prize money may be before a shot is fired. Our two midshipmen appear in this instance to be doing the same. The point having been conceded to Gascoigne, Jack went into the inn where Don Silvio had mentioned that he had taken up his quarters, and sending up his card, followed the waiter upstairs. The waiter opened the door and presented the card. Very well, replied Don Silvio, you can go down and show him up. Jack hearing these words did not wait, but walked in where he found Don Silvio very busy removing a hone, upon which he had been wetting a sharp, double-edged stiletto. The Sicilian walked up to him, offering his hand with apparent cordiality. But Jack, with a look of defiance, said, Don Silvio, we know you. My object now is to demand, on the part of my friend, the satisfaction which you do not deserve, but which our indignation at your second attempt upon Don Robiero induces us to offer, for if you escape from him you will have to do with me. On the hold, Don Silvio, you may think yourself fortunate, for it is better to die by the hands of a gentleman than by the jibbit. Don Silvio turned deadly pale. His hands sought his stiletto in his bosom, but it was remaining on the table. At last he replied, Be it so, I will meet you when and where you please, in an hour from this. Jack mentioned the place of meeting, and then walked out of the room. He and Gasco and then hastened to the quarters of an officer they were intimate with, and having provided themselves with the necessary firearms were at the spot before the time. They waited for him till the exact time, yet no Don Silvio made his appearance. He's off, observed Gascoine, the villain has escaped us. Half an hour over the time had passed, and still there was no sign of Gascoine's antagonist, but one of the governor's aide de Comte was seen walking up to them. Here's Atkins, observed Jack, that's unlucky that he won't interfere. Gentleman said Atkins, taking off his hat with much solemnity. The governor particularly wishes to speak to you both. We can't come just now, we'll be there in half an hour. You must be there in three minutes, both of you. Excuse me, my orders are positive, and to see them duly executed I have a corporal and a file of men behind that wall. Of course, if you walk with me quietly there will be no occasion to send for their assistance. This is confounded tyranny, cried Jack. Well may they call him King Tom. Yes, replied Atkins, and he governs here in re absoluto, so come along. Jack and Gascoine, having no choice, walked up to the government house where they found Sir Thomas in the veranda which commanded a view of the harbour and offing. Come here, young gentleman, said the governor in a severe tone. You'll see that vessel about two miles clear of the point. Don Silvio is in it, going back to Sicily under a guard. And now remember what I say as a maxim through life. Fight with a gentleman, if you must fight, but not with villains and murderers. By consenting to fight with a black-ard you as much disparage your cloth and compromise your own characters as by refusing to give satisfaction to a gentleman. There, go away, for I am angry with you, and don't let me see you till dinner time. Chapter 29 In which our hero sees a little more service and is better employed than in fighting Don Silvio. But before they met the governor at his table a sloop of war arrived from the fleet with the dispatches from the commander-in-chief. Those to Captain Wilson required him to make all possible haste in fitting and then to proceed and cruise off Corsica to fall in with a Russian frigate which was on that coast. If not there, to obtain intelligence and to follow her whenever she might be. All now was bustle and activity on board the Aurora. Captain Wilson with our hero and gas-goin quitted the governor's house and repaired on board where they remained day and night. On the third day the Aurora was complete and ready for sea and about noon sailed out of Vullet Harbour. In a week the Aurora had gained the coast of Corsica and there was no need of sending look-out men to the masthead for one of the officers on midshipmen was there from daylight to dark. She ran up the coast to the Northwood without seeing the object of her pursuit or gaining any intelligence. Calms and light airs detained them for a few days when a northerly breeze enabled them to run down the eastern side of the island. It was the eighteenth day after they had quitted Malta that a large vessel was seen ahead about eighteen miles off. The men were then at breakfast. Ah, frigate Captain Wilson, I'm sure of it, said Mr Hawkins, the chaplain, whose anxiety induced him to go to the masthead. How was she steering? The same way as we are. The Aurora was under all possible sail, and when the hands were piped to dinner it was thought that they had neared the chase about two miles. This will be a long chase, a stern chase always is, observed Martin to gas-goin. Yes, I'm afraid so, but I'm more afraid of her escaping. That's not unlikely either, replied the mate. You are one of Job's comforters, Martin, replied Gas-goin. Then, I'm not so often disappointed, replied the mate. There are two points to be ascertained. The first is whether we shall come up with the vessel or lose her. The next is, if we do come up with her, whether she is the vessel we are looking for. You'll seem very indifferent about it. Indeed I am not. I am the oldest past midshipman on the ship, and the taking of the frigate will if I live give me my promotion, and if I'm killed I shan't want it, but I've been so often disappointed that I now make sure of nothing until I have it. Well, for your sake, Martin, I will still hope that the vessel is the one we seek, that we shall not be killed, and that you will gain your promotion. I thank you, easy. I wish I was one that dared hope as you do. Poor Martin. He had long felt how bitter it was to meet disappointment upon disappointment. How true it is that hope deferred maketh the heart sick, and his anticipations of early days, the buoyant calculations of youth, had been one by one crushed. And now, having served his time nearly three years over, the reaction had become too painful, and as he truly said, he dared not hope. Still, his temper was not soured, but chastened. She has hauled her wind, sir! Hailed the second lieutenant from the top-mass cross-trees. What do you think of that, Martin? Tell Jack, either that she is an English frigate, or that she is a vessel commanded by a very brave fellow and well-mannered. It was sunset before the aurora had arrived within two miles of the vessel. The private signal had been thrown out, but had not been answered, either because it was too dark to make out the colours of the flags, or that these were unknown to an enemy. The stranger had hoisted the English colours, but that was no satisfactory proof of her being a friend, and just before dark she had put her head towards the aurora who had now come stemmed down to her. The ship's company of the aurora were all at their quarters, as a few minutes now would decide whether they had to deal with a friend or foe. There is no situation perhaps more difficult than demanding so much caution as the occasional meeting with a doubtful ship. On the one hand it being necessary to be fully prepared and not allow the enemy the advantage which may be derived from your inaction, and on the other the necessity of prudence that you may not assault your friends and countrymen. Captain Wilson had hoisted the private night signal, but here again it was difficult from his sails intervening for the other ship to make it out. Before the two frigates were within three cables length of each other, Captain Wilson determined that there should be no mistake from anyone to precaution on his part, hauled up his courses, and brailed up his driver that the night signal might be clearly seen. This was seen abaft on the quarter-deck of the other vessel, as if they were about to answer, but she continued to keep the aurora to leeward at about half a cable's length, and as the foremost guns of each vessel were abreast of each other, hailed in English. Ship ahoy, what ship's that? His majesty's ship, aurora, replied Captain Wilson, who stood on the hammocks, what ship's that? By this time the other frigate had passed half her length clear of the beam of the aurora, and at the same time that a pretended reply of his majesty's ship was heard, a broadside from her guns, which had been trained aft on purpose, was poured into the aurora, and at so short a distance, doing considerable execution. The crew of the aurora, hearing the hailing in English, and the vessel passing them apparently without firing, had imagined that she had been one of their own cruisers. The captains of the guns had dropped their lanyards in disappointment, and the silence which had been maintained as the two vessels met was just breaking up in various ways of lamentation at their bad luck, when the broadside was poured in, thundering in their ears, and the ripping and tearing of the beams and planks astonished their senses. Many were carried down below, but it was difficult to say whether indignation at the enemy's ruse, or satisfaction at discovering that they were not called to quarters in vain, most predominated. At all events it was answered by three voluntary cheers, which drowned the cries of those who were being assisted to the cockpit. Man the laboured guns and about ship, cried Captain Wilson, leaping off the hammocks, Look out, my lads, and rake her in stays, We'll pay him off for that foul play before we've done with him, Look out, my lads, and take good aim as she pays round. The aurora was put about, and her broadside poured into the stern of the Russian frigate, for such she was. It was almost dark, but the enemy, who appeared as anxious as the aurora to come to action, hauled up her courses to await her coming up. In five minutes the two vessels were alongside, exchanging murderous broadsides at full more than pistol-shot, running slowly in for the land, then not much more than five miles distant. The skin-clad mountaineers of Corsica were aroused by the furious cannonading, watching the incessant flashes of the guns, and listening to their reverberating roar. After half an hour's fierce combat, during which the fire of both vessels was kept up with undiminished vigor, Captain Wilson went down on the main deck, and himself separately pointed each gun after it was loaded. Those amid ships being direct for the main channels of the enemy's ship, while those above the beam were gradually trained more and more forward, and those before the beam more and more aft, so as to throw all their shot nearly into one focus, giving directions that they were all to be fired at once at the word of command. The enemy, not aware of the cause of the delay, imagined that the fire of the aurora had slackened, and loudly cheered. At the word given, the broad side was poured in, and, dark as it was, the effects from it were evident. Two of the midship ports of the antagonist were blown into one, and her main mast was seen to totter, and then to fall over the side. The aurora then set her courses, which had been hauled up, and shooting ahead took up a raking position, while the Russian was still hampered with her wreck, and poured in grape and canister from her upper deck caronades to impede their labours on deck, while she continued her destructive fire upon the hull of the enemy from the main deck battery. The moon now burst out from a low bank of clouds, and enabled them to accomplish their work with more precision. In a quarter of an hour the Russian was totally dismastered, and Captain Wilson ordered half his remaining ship's company to repair the damages, which had been most severe, whilst the laboured men at quarters continued the fire from the main deck. The enemy continued to return the fire from four guns, two on each of her decks, which she could still make bare upon the aurora, but after some time even these ceased, either from the men having deserted them or from their being dismounted. Observing that the fire from her antagonist had ceased, the aurora also discontinued, and the jolly boat astern, being still uninjured, the second lieutenant was deputed to pull alongside of the frigate to ascertain if she had struck. The beams of the bright moon silvered the rippling water as the boat shoved off, and Captain Wilson and his officers, who were still unhurt, lent over the shattered sides of the aurora, waiting for a reply. Suddenly the silence of the night was broken upon by a loud splash from the bowels of the Russian frigate, then about three cables-length distance. What could that be? cried Captain Wilson. Her anchor's down. Mr. Jones had led over the side and see what water we have. Mr. Jones had long been carried down below, severed in two with a round shot, but a man leapt into the chains and, lowering down the lead, sounded in seven fathoms. Then I suspect he will give us more trouble yet, observed Captain Wilson, and so indeed it proved. For the Russian captain, in reply to the second lieutenant, had told him in English that he would answer that question with his broadside. And before the boat was dropped to stern, he had warped round with the springs on his cable and had recommenced his fire upon the aurora. Captain Wilson made sail upon his ship and sailed round and round the anchored vessel, so as to give her two broadsides to her one, and from the slowness with which she worked at her springs upon her cables, it was evident that she must now be very weak-handed. Still the pertinacity and decided courage of the Russian captain convinced Captain Wilson that, in all probability, he would sink at his anchor before he would haul down his colors, and not only would he lose more of the aurora's men, but also the Russian vessel, without he took a more decided step. Captain Wilson therefore resolved to try her by the board. Being poured in a raking fire, he stood off for a few moments, during which he called the officers and men on deck, and stated his intention. He then went about, and himself conning the aurora, ran her on board the Russian, pouring in his reserved broadside as the vessels came into collision, and heading his men as they leapt on the enemy's decks. Although, as Captain Wilson had imagined, the Russian frigate had not many men to oppose the aurora's, the deck was obstinately defended. The voice and the arm of the Russian captain were to be heard and seen everywhere, and his men, encouraged by him, were cut down by numbers where they stood. Our hero, who had the good fortune to be still unhurt, was for a little while close to Captain Wilson when he boarded, and was about to oppose his unequal force against that of the Russian captain when he was pulled back by the collar by Mr. Hawkins, the chaplain, who rushed in advance with a sabre in his hand. The opponents were well matched, and it may be said that, with little interruption, a hand-to-hand conflict ensued, for the moon lighted up the scene of carnage, and they were well able to distinguish each other's faces. At last the chaplain's sword broke. He rushed in, drove the hilt into his antagonist's face, closed with him, and they both fell down the hatchway together. After this the deck was gained, or rather cleared, by the crew of the aurora, for few could said to have resisted, and in a minute or two the frigate was in their possession. The chaplain and the Russian captain were hoisted up, still clean to each other, senseless from the fall, but neither of them dead, although bleeding from several wounds. As soon as the main deck had been cleared, Captain Wilson ordered the hatches to be put on, and left a party on board, while he hastened to attend to the condition of his own ship and ship's company. It was daylight before anything like order had been restored to the decks of the aurora. The water was still smooth, and instead of letting go her own anchor, she had hung on with a horser to the prize. But her sails had been furled, her decks cleared, guns secured, and the buckets were dashing away the blood from her planks and the carriages of the guns, when the sun rose and shone upon them. The numerous wounded had by this time been put into their hammocks, although there were still one or two cases of amputation to be performed. The carpenter had repaired all shot holes under or too near to the waterline, and then had proceeded to sound the wail of the prize. But although her upper works had been dreadfully shattered, there was no reason to suppose that she had received any serious injury below, and therefore the hatches still remained on, although a few hands were put to the pumps to try if she made any water. It was not until the aurora presented a more cheerful appearance that Captain Wilson went over to the other ship, whose deck, now that the light of heaven enabled them to witness all the horrors, even to minuteness, presented a shocking spectacle of blood and carnage. Body after body was thrown over. The wounded were supplied with water, and such assistance as could be rendered until the surgeons could attend them. The hatches were then taken off, and the remainder of her crew ordered on deck. About two hundred obeyed the summons, but the lower deck was as crowded with killed and wounded as was the upper. For the present, the prisoners were handed over down into the forehold of the aurora, which had been prepared for their reception, and the work of separation of the dead from the living then underwent. After this such repairs as were immediately necessary were made, and a portion of the aurora's crew, under orders of the second lieutenant, were sent on board to take charge of her. It was not till the evening of the day after this night conflict that the aurora was in a situation to make sail. All hands were then sent on board of the Trident, for such was the name of the Russian frigate, to fit her out as soon as possible. Before morning, for there was no relaxation from their fatigue, nor was there any wish for it, all was completed, and the two frigates, although in a shattered condition, were prepared to meet any common conflict with the elements. The aurora made sail with the Trident in tow, the hammocks were allowed to be taken down, and the watch below permitted to repose. In this murderous conflict, the Trident had more than two hundred men killed and wounded. The aurora's loss had not been so great, but still it was severe, having lost sixty-five men and officers. Among the fallen there were Mr Jones, the master, the third lieutenant, Mr Arkwright, and two midshipmen dead. Mr Potifar, the first lieutenant, was severely wounded at the commencement of the action. Martin, the master's mate and gas coin, the first mortally, and the second badly, were wounded. Our hero had also received a slight cutlass wound, which obliged him to wear his arm for a short time in a sling. Among the ship's company who were wounded was Mesti. He had been hurt with a splinter before the Trident was taken by the board, and had remained on deck, and had followed our hero, watching over him and protecting him as a father. He had done even more, for he had with Jack thrown himself before Captain Wilson at a time that he had received such a blow with the flat of a sword as to stun him and bring him down on his knee. And Jack had taken good care that Captain Wilson should not be ignorant, as he really would have been of this timely service on the part of Mesti, who certainly, although with a great deal of sang foie in his composition when in repose, was a fiend incarnate when his blood was up. But you must have been with Mesti, observed Captain Wilson, when he did me the service. I was with him, sir, replied Jack, with great modesty, but was of very little service. How is your friend Gasco in this evening? Oh, not very bad, sir. He wants a glass of grog. And Mr. Martin? Jack shook his head. Why, the surgeon thinks he will do well. Yes, sir, and so I told Martin, and he said it was very well to give him hope, but that he thought otherwise. You must manage him, Mr. Easy. Tell him that he is sure of his promotion. I have, sir, but he won't believe it. He never will believe it till he has his commission signed. I really think that an acting order would do more than the doctor can. Well, Mr. Easy, he shall have one tomorrow morning. Have you seen Mr. Potifar? He, I'm afraid, is very bad. Very bad, sir, and they say is worse every day, and yet his wound is healthy and ought to be doing well. Such was the conversation between Jack and his captain as they sat at breakfast on the third morning after the action. The next day, Easy took down an acting order for Martin and put it into his hands. The mate read it over as he lay bandaged in his hammock. It's only an acting order, Jack, said he. It may not be confirmed. Jack swore by all the articles of war that it would be, but Martin replied that he was sure it never would. No, no, said the mate. I knew very well that I never should be made. If it is not confirmed, I may live, but if it is, I am sure to die. Everyone that went to Martin's hammock wished him joy of his promotion. But six days after the action, poor Martin's remains were consigned to the deep. The next person who followed him was Mr. Potifar, the first lieutenant who had contrived, wounded as he was, to reach a packet of the universal medicine, and had taken so many bottles before he was found out that he was one morning found dead in his bed with more than two dozen empty vials under his pillow and by the side of his mattress. He was not buried with his hands in his pockets, but when sewed up in his hammock they were, at all events, laid in the right position. Mr. Midshipman Easy by Captain Frank Marriott, read by Adrian Pretzelis In three weeks the aurora, with her prize in tow, arrived at Malta. The wounded were sent to the hospital, and the gallant Russian captain recovered from his wounds about the same time as Mr. Hawkins the chaplain. Jack, who constantly called to see the chaplain, had a great deal to do to console him. He would shake his hands as he lay in his bed, exclaiming against himself, oh, would he say, the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak, that I, a man of God, as they term me, who ought to have been down with the surgeons, whispering comfort to the desponding, should have gone on deck, but I could not help it, and have mixed in such a scene of slaughter, what will become of me? Jack attempted to console him by pointing out that not only chaplains but bishops have been known to fight in armour from time immemorial, but Mr. Hawkins' recovery was long doubtful from the agitation of his mind. When he was able to walk, Jack introduced him to the Russian captain, who was also just out of his bed. I am most happy to embrace so gallant an officer, said the Russian, who recognised his antagonist, throwing his arms round the chaplain, and giving him a kiss on both cheeks. What is his rank? continued he, addressing himself to Jack, who replied, very quietly, that he was the ship's padre. The padre replied the captain with surprise, as Hawkins turned away with confusion. The padre par exemple? Well, I always had a great respect for the church. Pray, sir, said he, turning to easy. Do your padre's always head your borders? Always, sir, replied Jack. It's a rule of the service, and the duty of a padre to show the men the way to heaven. It's our 99th article of war. You are a fighting nation! replied the Russian, bowing to Hawkins and continuing his walk, not exactly pleased that he had been floored by a parson. Mr. Hawkins continued very disconsolate for some time. He then invalidated, and applied himself to his duties on shore, where he would not be exposed to such temptations from his former habits. As the Aurora, when she was last in Malta, had nearly exhausted the dockyard for her repairs, she was even longer fitting out this time, during which Captain Wilson's dispatches had been received by the Admiral, and had been acknowledged by a brig sent to Malta. The Admiral, in reply, after complimenting him upon his gallantry and success, desired that, as soon as he was ready, he should proceed to Palermo, with communications of importance to the authorities, and having remained there for an answer, was again to return to Malta, to pick up such of his men as might be fit to leave the hospital, and then join the Toulon fleet. This intelligence was soon known to our hero, who was in ecstasies at the idea of again seeing Agnes and her brothers. Once more, the Aurora sailed away from the high-crowned rocks of Vallet, and with a fine breeze dashed through the deep blue waves. But towards the evening, the breeze increased, and they were under double reef topsals. On the second day, they made the coast of Sicily, not far from where easy and gas-going had been driven on shore. The weather was then more moderate, and the sea had, to a great degree, subsided. They therefore stood in close to the coast, as they had not a leading wind to Palermo. As they stood in, the glasses, as usual, were directed to land, observing the villas with which the hills and valleys were studied, with their white fronts embowered in orange groves. What is that, gas-going? said Easy. Under that precipice, it looks like a vessel. Gas-going turned his glass in the direction. Yes, it is a vessel on the rocks. By her prowl, she looks like a galley. It is a galley, sir. One of the row-gallies. I can make out her bank of oars. Observed the signal-men. This was reported to Captain Wilson, who also examined her. She is on the rocks, certainly, observed he. And I think I see people on board. Keep her away, a point, quarter-master. The aurora was now steered right for the vessel, and in the course of an hour was not more than a mile from her. Their suppositions were correct. It was one of the Sicilian government-gallies bilged on the rocks, and they now perceived that there were people on board of her, making signals with their shirts and pieces of linen. They must be the galley-slaves, for I perceive that they do not one of them change their positions. The galley must have been abandoned by their officers and seamen, and left the slaves to perish. That's very hard, observed Jack de Gascoigne. They were condemned to the gallies, not to death. They will not have much mercy from the waves, replied Gascoigne. They will all be in kingdom come tomorrow morning, if the breeze comes more on the land. We have already come up two points this forenoon. Although Captain Wilson did not join in this conversation, which he overheard as he stood on the folksle gun with his glass over the hammocks, it appears he was of the same opinion. But he demurred. He had to choose between allowing so many of his fellow creatures to perish miserably, or to let loose upon society a set of miscreants who would again enter a course of crime, until they were recaptured, and by so doing, probably displeased the Sicilian authorities. After some little reflection, he resolved that he would take his chance of the latter. The Aurora was hoved to in stays, and the two cutters ordered to be lowered down, and the boats crew to be armed. Mr. Easy, do you take one cutter and the armourers, pull on board of the galley, release those people, and land them in small divisions? Mr. Gascoigne, you will take the other to assist Mr. Easy, and when he lands them in his boat, you will pull by his side ready to act in case of any hostile attempt on the part of the scoundrels. For we must not expect gratitude. Of course, land them at the nearest safe spot for deparcation. In pursuance of these orders, our two midshipmen pulled away to the vessel. They found her fixed hard upon the rocks, which had pierced her slight timbers, and as they had supposed, the respectable part of her crew with the commander had taken to the boats, leaving the galley slaves to their fate. She pulled fifty oars, but had only thirty-six manned. These oars were forty feet long, and ran in from the thulpin with a loom six feet long, each manned by four slaves, who were chained to their seat before it by a running chain made fast by a padlock in the midships. A plank of two feet wide ran four and a half the vessel between the two banks of oars for the boson to apply the lash to those who did not sufficiently exert themselves. Viva los Ingalos! cried the galley slaves as easy climbed up over the quarter of the vessel. I say, Ned, did you ever see such a precious set of villains? observed easy, as he surveyed the faces of the men who were chained. No! replied Gascoigne, and I think if the captain had seen them as we have, that he would have left them where they were. I don't know, but, however, our orders are positive. Armourer, knock off all the padlocks, beginning aft. When we have a cargo, we will land them. How many are there? Twelve dozen, twelve dozen villains to let loose upon society. I have a great mind to go on board again and report my opinion to the captain. One hundred and forty-four villains who all deserve hanging, for drowning is too good for them. Our orders are to liberate them, Jack. Yes, but I should like to argue this point with Captain Wilson. They'll send after them fast enough, Jack, and they'll all be in limbo again before long, replied Gascoigne. Well, I suppose we must obey orders, but it goes against my conscience to save such villainous-looking rascals. Armourer, hammer away! The Armourer, who with the seamen appeared very much of Jack's opinion, and had not commenced his work, now struck off the padlocks one by one with his sledgehammer. As soon as they were released, the slagues were ordered into the cutter, and when it was sufficiently loaded, Jack shoved off, followed by Gascoigne as guard, and landed them at the point about a cable's length distant. It required six trips before they all were landed. The last cargo were on shore, and Easy was desiring the men to shove off when one of the Galerians turned round and cried out to Jack in a mocking tone, Adios, Señor! Arrivendalar! Jack started, stared, and in the squalid, naked wretch who addressed him, he recognised Don Silvio. I will acquaint Don Ribiera of your arrival, Señor, said the miscreant, springing up the rocks, and mixing with the rest, who now commenced hooting and laughing at their preservers. Nid, observed Easy to Gascoigne, we have let that rascal loose. More's the pity, replied Gascoigne, but we've only obeyed orders. It can't be helped, but I've a notion there will be some mischief out of this. We obeyed orders, replied Gascoigne. We've let the rascals loose not ten miles from Don Ribiera's. Obeyed orders, Jack, with the whole gang to back him if he goes there. Orders, Jack! Agnes, at his mercy! Captains, orders, Jack! I shall argue this point when I go on board, replied Jack. Too late, Jack. Yes, replied Easy, sinking down on the stem sheets with a look of despair. Give way, my lads! Give way! Jack returned on board and reported what he had done, also that Don Silvio was among those liberated, and he ventured to mention his fears of what might take place from their contiguity to the house of Don Ribiera. Captain Wilson bit his lips. He felt that his philanthropy had induced him to act without his usual prudence. I have done a rash thing, Mr. Easy, I am afraid. I should have taken them all on board and delivered them up to the authorities. I wish I had thought of that before. We must get to Palermo as fast as we can and have the troops sent after these miscreants. Hands about ship, fill the main yard. The wind had veered round and the Aurora was now able to lay up clear of the island of Maritimo. The next morning she anchored in Palermo roads and gave immediate notice to the authorities who, wishing Captain's philanthropy to the devil, immediately dispatched a large body of troops in quest of the liberated malefactors. Captain Wilson, feeling for Jack's anxiety about his friends, called him over to him on deck and gave him and Gasco in permission to go on shore. Will you allow me to take Mesti with me, sir, if you please? replied Jack. Yes, Mr. Easy, but reflect that even with Mesti you are no match for one hundred and fifty men, so be prudent. I send you to relieve your anxiety, not to run into danger. Of course, sir, replied Jack, touching his hat and walking away quietly till he came to the hatchway when he darted down like a shot and was immediately occupied with his preparations. In half an hour our two midshipmen with Mesti had landed and proceeded to the inn where they had put up before. They were armed up to the teeth. Their first inquiries were for Don Philip and his brother. Both on leave of absence, replied the landlord, and staying with Don Ribiera. That's some comfort, thought Jack. Now we must get horses fast as we can. Mesti, can you ride? By all the power I can ride, Master Easy. Suppose you ride the Kentucky Haas, you ride anything. In half an hour four horses and a guide were procured, and at eight o'clock in the morning the party set off in the direction of Don Ribiera's country seat. They had not ridden more than six miles when they came up with one of the detachment sent out in pursuit of the liberated criminals. Our hero recognized the commanding officer as an old acquaintance, and imparting to him the release of Don Silvio and his fears upon Don Ribiera's account begged him to direct his attention that way. Corpo de Baco, you are right, senior mid, replied the officer, but Don Philip is there, and his brother too, I believe. I will be there by ten o'clock tomorrow morning. We will march almost the whole night. They have no arms, observed Easy. No, but they will soon get them. They will go to some small town in a body, plunder it, and then seek the protection of the mountains. Your captain has given us a pretty job. Jack exchanged a few more words, and then, excusing him on account of his haste, put the spurs to his horse, and regained his own party, who now proceeded at a rapid place. Oh, senior, said the guide, we shall kill the horses. I pray for them, said Jack. Yes, but we shall kill them before we get there, Jack, replied Gascoigne, and have to walk the rest of the way. Very true, Ned. Let's pull up and give them their wind. Boy, to holy polka, Master Easy, but my shirt stick to my ribs, cried Mestie, whose black face was hung with dewdrops from their rapid course. Never mind, Mestie. It was about five o'clock in the afternoon when they arrived at the seat of Don Ribiera. Jack threw himself off his jaded steed, and hastened into the house, followed by Gascoigne. They found the whole family collected in the large sitting-room, quite ignorant of any danger threatening them, and equally astonished and pleased at the arrival of their old friends. Jack flew to Agnes, who screamed when she saw him, and felt so giddy afterwards that he was obliged to support her. Having seated her again, he was kindly greeted by the old people and the two young officers. After a few minutes dedicated to mutual inquiries, a hero stated the cause of their expeditious arrival. Don Silvio, with one hundred and fifty galliarians, let loose upon the coast yesterday afternoon, exclaimed Don Ribiera. You are right. I only wonder they were not here last night. But I expect Pedro from the town. He has gone with a load of wine. He will bring us intelligence. At all events we must be prepared, said Don Phillip. The troops you say will be here tomorrow morning. Holy Virgin! exclaimed the ladies in a breath. How many can we muster? We have five men here, or shall have by the evening, replied Don Phillip. All I think good men. My father, my brother, and myself. We are three, four with the guide whom I know nothing about. Twelve in all. Not one too many, but I think that now we are prepared if they attack. We can hold out till the morning. Had we not better send the ladies away? said Jack. Who is to escort them? replied Don Phillip. We shall only weaken our force. Besides, they may fall into the miscreant's hands. Shall we all leave the house together? They can plunder it. observed Don Ribeira. Still we may be intercepted by them, and our whole force will be nothing against so many, observed Don Phillip, if we are without defence. Whereas in the house we shall have an advantage. Ivero replied Don Ribeira thoughtfully. Then let us prepare, for depend upon it. Don Silvio will not lose such an opportunity to wreak his vengeance. He will be here tonight. I only wonder he has not been here with his companions before. However, Pedro will arrive in two hours. We must now see what means we have of defence, said Phillip. Come, brother, will you come, sir? End of chapter 30