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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:30:20 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:30:20 -0700 |
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diff --git a/7831-h/7831-h.htm b/7831-h/7831-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..36ac068 --- /dev/null +++ b/7831-h/7831-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,16506 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1"?> + +<!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> + <meta content="pg2html (binary v0.17)" name="linkgenerator" /> + <title> + When London Burned, by G. A. Henty + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .75em; margin-bottom: .75em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%; text-align: justify; font-size: 80%; font-style: italic;} + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .xx-small {font-size: 60%;} + .x-small {font-size: 75%;} + .small {font-size: 85%;} + .large {font-size: 115%;} + .x-large {font-size: 130%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent25 { margin-left: 25%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + .indent35 { margin-left: 35%;} + .indent40 { margin-left: 40%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {position: absolute; right: 1%; font-size: 0.6em; + font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; + text-align: right; background-color: #FFFACD; + border: 1px solid; padding: 0.3em;text-indent: 0em;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 15%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + .head { float: left; font-size: 90%; width: 98%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: center; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 0.8 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of When London Burned, by G. A. Henty + +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: When London Burned + +Author: G. A. Henty + +Release Date: April, 2005 [EBook #7831] +First Posted: May 20, 2003 +Last Updated: April 12, 2019 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK WHEN LONDON BURNED *** + + + + +Etext produced by Charles Aldarondo, Tiffany Vergon, S.R. Ellison, +and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + WHEN LONDON BURNED + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By G. A. Henty + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> <b>WHEN LONDON BURNED</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I — FATHERLESS </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II — A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III — A THIEF SOMEWHERE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV — CAPTURED </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V — KIDNAPPED </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI — A NARROW ESCAPE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII — SAVED FROM A VILLAIN </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII — THE CAPTAIN'S YARN </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX — THE FIRE IN THE SAVOY </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X — HOW JOHN WILKES FOUGHT THE + DUTCH </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI — PRINCE RUPERT </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII — NEW FRIENDS </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII — THE BATTLE OF LOWESTOFT </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV — HONOURABLE SCARS </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV — THE PLAGUE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI — FATHER AND SON </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII — SMITTEN DOWN </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII — A STROKE OF GOOD FORTUNE + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX — TAKING POSSESSION </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX — THE FIGHT OFF DUNKIRK </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI — LONDON IN FLAMES </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII — AFTER THE FIRE </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE + </h2> + <p> + We are accustomed to regard the Reign of Charles II. as one of the most + inglorious periods of English History; but this was far from being the + case. It is true that the extravagance and profligacy of the Court were + carried to a point unknown before or since, forming,—by the + indignation they excited among the people at large,—the main cause + of the overthrow of the House of Stuart. But, on the other hand, the + nation made extraordinary advances in commerce and wealth, while the + valour of our sailors was as conspicuous under the Dukes of York and + Albemarle, Prince Rupert and the Earl of Sandwich, as it had been under + Blake himself, and their victories resulted in transferring the commercial + as well as the naval supremacy of Holland to this country. In spite of the + cruel blows inflicted on the well-being of the country, alike by the + extravagance of the Court, the badness of the Government, the Great + Plague, and the destruction of London by fire, an extraordinary extension + of our trade occurred during the reign of Charles II. Such a period, + therefore, although its brilliancy was marred by dark shadows, cannot be + considered as an inglorious epoch. It was ennobled by the bravery of our + sailors, by the fearlessness with which the coalition of France with + Holland was faced, and by the spirit of enterprise with which our + merchants and traders seized the opportunity, and, in spite of national + misfortunes, raised England in the course of a few years to the rank of + the greatest commercial power in the world. + </p> + <p> + G. A. HENTY. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + WHEN LONDON BURNED + </h1> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I — FATHERLESS + </h2> + <p> + Lad stood looking out of the dormer window in a scantily furnished attic + in the high-pitched roof of a house in Holborn, in September 1664. Numbers + of persons were traversing the street below, many of them going out + through the bars, fifty yards away, into the fields beyond, where some + sports were being held that morning, while country people were coming in + with their baskets from the villages of Highgate and Hampstead, Tyburn and + Bayswater. But the lad noted nothing that was going on; his eyes were + filled with tears, and his thoughts were in the little room behind him; + for here, coffined in readiness for burial, lay the body of his father. + </p> + <p> + Sir Aubrey Shenstone had not been a good father in any sense of the word. + He had not been harsh or cruel, but he had altogether neglected his son. + Beyond the virtues of loyalty and courage, he possessed few others. He had + fought, as a young man, for Charles, and even among the Cavaliers who rode + behind Prince Rupert was noted for reckless bravery. When, on the fatal + field of Worcester, the last hopes of the Royalists were crushed, he had + effected his escape to France and taken up his abode at Dunkirk. His + estates had been forfeited; and after spending the proceeds of his wife's + jewels and those he had carried about with him in case fortune went + against the cause for which he fought, he sank lower and lower, and had + for years lived on the scanty pension allowed by Louis to the King and his + adherents. + </p> + <p> + Sir Aubrey had been one of the wild, reckless spirits whose conduct did + much towards setting the people of England against the cause of Charles. + He gambled and drank, interlarded his conversation with oaths, and + despised as well as hated the Puritans against whom he fought. Misfortune + did not improve him; he still drank when he had money to do so, gambled + for small sums in low taverns with men of his own kind, and quarrelled and + fought on the smallest provocation. Had it not been for his son he would + have taken service in the army of some foreign Power; but he could not + take the child about with him, nor could he leave it behind. + </p> + <p> + Sir Aubrey was not altogether without good points. He would divide his + last crown with a comrade poorer than himself. In the worst of times he + was as cheerful as when money was plentiful, making a joke of his + necessities and keeping a brave face to the world. + </p> + <p> + Wholly neglected by his father, who spent the greater portion of his time + abroad, Cyril would have fared badly indeed had it not been for the + kindness of Lady Parton, the wife of a Cavalier of very different type to + Sir Aubrey. He had been an intimate friend of Lord Falkland, and, like + that nobleman, had drawn his sword with the greatest reluctance, and only + when he saw that Parliament was bent upon overthrowing the other two + estates in the realm and constituting itself the sole authority in + England. After the execution of Charles he had retired to France, and did + not take part in the later risings, but lived a secluded life with his + wife and children. The eldest of these was of the same age as Cyril; and + as the latter's mother had been a neighbour of hers before marriage, Lady + Parton promised her, on her death-bed, to look after the child, a promise + that she faithfully kept. + </p> + <p> + Sir John Parton had always been adverse to the association of his boy with + the son of Sir Aubrey Shenstone; but he had reluctantly yielded to his + wife's wishes, and Cyril passed the greater portion of his time at their + house, sharing the lessons Harry received from an English clergyman who + had been expelled from his living by the fanatics of Parliament. He was a + good and pious man, as well as an excellent scholar, and under his + teaching, aided by the gentle precepts of Lady Parton, and the strict but + kindly rule of her husband, Cyril received a training of a far better kind + than he would ever have been likely to obtain had he been brought up in + his father's house near Norfolk. Sir Aubrey exclaimed sometimes that the + boy was growing up a little Puritan, and had he taken more interest in his + welfare would undoubtedly have withdrawn him from the healthy influences + that were benefiting him so greatly; but, with the usual acuteness of + children, Cyril soon learnt that any allusion to his studies or his life + at Sir John Parton's was disagreeable to his father, and therefore seldom + spoke of them. + </p> + <p> + Sir Aubrey was never, even when under the influence of his potations, + unkind to Cyril. The boy bore a strong likeness to his mother, whom his + father had, in his rough way, really loved passionately. He seldom spoke + even a harsh word to him, and although he occasionally expressed his + disapproval of the teaching he was receiving, was at heart not sorry to + see the boy growing up so different from himself; and Cyril, in spite of + his father's faults, loved him. When Sir Aubrey came back with unsteady + step, late at night, and threw himself on his pallet, Cyril would say to + himself, "Poor father! How different he would have been had it not been + for his misfortunes! He is to be pitied rather than blamed!" And so, as + years went on, in spite of the difference between their natures, there had + grown up a sort of fellowship between the two; and of an evening + sometimes, when his father's purse was so low that he could not indulge in + his usual stoup of wine at the tavern, they would sit together while Sir + Aubrey talked of his fights and adventures. + </p> + <p> + "As to the estates, Cyril," he said one day, "I don't know that Cromwell + and his Roundheads have done you much harm. I should have run through + them, lad—I should have diced them away years ago—and I am not + sure but that their forfeiture has been a benefit to you. If the King ever + gets his own, you may come to the estates; while, if I had had the + handling of them, the usurers would have had such a grip on them that you + would never have had a penny of the income." + </p> + <p> + "It doesn't matter, father," the boy replied. "I mean to be a soldier some + day, as you have been, and I shall take service with some of the + Protestant Princes of Germany; or, if I can't do that, I shall be able to + work my way somehow." + </p> + <p> + "What can you work at, lad?" his father said, contemptuously. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know yet, father; but I shall find some work to do." + </p> + <p> + Sir Aubrey was about to burst into a tirade against work, but he checked + himself. If Cyril never came into the estates he would have to earn his + living somehow. + </p> + <p> + "All right, my boy. But do you stick to your idea of earning your living + by your sword; it is a gentleman's profession, and I would rather see you + eating dry bread as a soldier of fortune than prospering in some vile + trading business." + </p> + <p> + Cyril never argued with his father, and he simply nodded an assent and + then asked some question that turned Sir Aubrey's thoughts on other + matters. + </p> + <p> + The news that Monk had declared for the King, and that Charles would + speedily return to take his place on his father's throne, caused great + excitement among the Cavaliers scattered over the Continent; and as soon + as the matter was settled, all prepared to return to England, in the full + belief that their evil days were over, and that they would speedily be + restored to their former estates, with honours and rewards for their many + sacrifices. + </p> + <p> + "I must leave you behind for a short time, Cyril," his father said to the + boy, when he came in one afternoon. "I must be in London before the King + arrives there, to join in his welcome home, and for the moment I cannot + take you; I shall be busy from morning till night. Of course, in the + pressure of things at first it will be impossible for the King to do + everything at once, and it may be a few weeks before all these Roundheads + can be turned out of the snug nests they have made for themselves, and the + rightful owners come to their own again. As I have no friends in London, I + should have nowhere to bestow you, until I can take you down with me to + Norfolk to present you to our tenants, and you would be grievously in my + way; but as soon as things are settled I will write to you or come over + myself to fetch you. In the meantime I must think over where I had best + place you. It will not matter for so short a time, but I would that you + should be as comfortable as possible. Think it over yourself, and let me + know if you have any wishes in the matter. Sir John Parton leaves at the + end of the week, and ere another fortnight there will be scarce another + Englishman left at Dunkirk." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you think you can take me with you, father?" + </p> + <p> + "Impossible," Sir Aubrey said shortly. "Lodgings will be at a great price + in London, for the city will be full of people from all parts coming up to + welcome the King home. I can bestow myself in a garret anywhere, but I + could not leave you there all day. Besides, I shall have to get more + fitting clothes, and shall have many expenses. You are at home here, and + will not feel it dull for the short time you have to remain behind." + </p> + <p> + Cyril said no more, but went up, with a heavy heart, for his last day's + lessons at the Partons'. Young as he was, he was accustomed to think for + himself, for it was but little guidance he received from his father; and + after his studies were over he laid the case before his master, Mr. + Felton, and asked if he could advise him. Mr. Felton was himself in high + spirits, and was hoping to be speedily reinstated in his living. He looked + grave when Cyril told his story. + </p> + <p> + "I think it is a pity that your father, Sir Aubrey, does not take you over + with him, for it will assuredly take longer to bring all these matters + into order than he seems to think. However, that is his affair. I should + think he could not do better for you than place you with the people where + I lodge. You know them, and they are a worthy couple; the husband is, as + you know, a fisherman, and you and Harry Parton have often been out with + him in his boat, so it would not be like going among strangers. Continue + your studies. I should be sorry to think that you were forgetting all that + you have learnt. I will take you this afternoon, if you like, to my + friend, the Curé of St. Ursula. Although we differ on religion we are good + friends, and should you need advice on any matters he will give it to you, + and may be of use in arranging for a passage for you to England, should + your father not be able himself to come and fetch you." + </p> + <p> + Sir Aubrey at once assented to the plan when Cyril mentioned it to him, + and a week later sailed for England; Cyril moving, with his few + belongings, to the house of Jean Baudoin, who was the owner and master of + one of the largest fishing-boats in Dunkirk. Sir Aubrey had paid for his + board and lodgings for two months. + </p> + <p> + "I expect to be over to fetch you long before that, Cyril," he had said, + "but it is as well to be on the safe side. Here are four crowns, which + will furnish you with ample pocket-money. And I have arranged with your + fencing-master for you to have lessons regularly, as before; it will not + do for you to neglect so important an accomplishment, for which, as he + tells me, you show great aptitude." + </p> + <p> + The two months passed. Cyril had received but one letter from his father. + Although it expressed hopes of his speedy restoration to his estates, + Cyril could see, by its tone, that his father was far from satisfied with + the progress he had made in the matter. Madame Baudoin was a good and + pious woman, and was very kind to the forlorn English boy; but when a + fortnight over the two months had passed, Cyril could see that the + fisherman was becoming anxious. Regularly, on his return from the fishing, + he inquired if letters had arrived, and seemed much put out when he heard + that there was no news. One day, when Cyril was in the garden that + surrounded the cottage, he heard him say to his wife,— + </p> + <p> + "Well, I will say nothing about it until after the next voyage, and then + if we don't hear, the boy must do something for his living. I can take him + in the boat with me; he can earn his victuals in that way. If he won't do + that, I shall wash my hands of him altogether, and he must shift for + himself. I believe his father has left him with us for good. We were wrong + in taking him only on the recommendation of Mr. Felton. I have been + inquiring about his father, and hear little good of him." + </p> + <p> + Cyril, as soon as the fisherman had gone, stole up to his little room. He + was but twelve years old, and he threw himself down on his bed and cried + bitterly. Then a thought struck him; he went to his box, and took out from + it a sealed parcel; on it was written, "To my son. This parcel is only to + be opened should you find yourself in great need, Your Loving Mother." He + remembered how she had placed it in his hands a few hours before her + death, and had said to him,— + </p> + <p> + "Put this away, Cyril. I charge you let no one see it. Do not speak of it + to anyone—not even to your father. Keep it as a sacred gift, and do + not open it unless you are in sore need. It is for you, and you alone. It + is the sole thing that I have to leave you; use it with discretion. I fear + that hard times will come upon you." + </p> + <p> + Cyril felt that his need could hardly be sorer than it was now, and + without hesitation he broke the seals, and opened the packet. He found + first a letter directed to himself. It began,— + </p> + <p> + "MY DARLING CYRIL,—I trust that it will be many years before you + open this parcel and read these words. I have left the enclosed as a + parting gift to you. I know not how long this exile may last, or whether + you will ever be able to return to England. But whether you do or not, it + may well be that the time will arrive when you may find yourself in sore + need. Your father has been a loving husband to me, and will, I am sure, do + what he can for you; but he is not provident in his habits, and may not, + after he is left alone, be as careful in his expenditure as I have tried + to be. I fear then that the time will come when you will be in need of + money, possibly even in want of the necessaries of life. All my other + trinkets I have given to him; but the one enclosed, which belonged to my + mother, I leave to you. It is worth a good deal of money, and this it is + my desire that you shall spend upon yourself. Use it wisely, my son. If, + when you open this, you are of age to enter the service of a foreign + Prince, as is, I know, the intention of your father, it will provide you + with a suitable outfit. If, as is possible, you may lose your father by + death or otherwise while you are still young, spend it on your education, + which is the best of all heritages. Should your father be alive when you + open this, I pray you not to inform him of it. The money, in his hands, + would last but a short time, and might, I fear, be wasted. Think not that + I am speaking or thinking hardly of him. All men, even the best, have + their faults, and his is a carelessness as to money matters, and a certain + recklessness concerning them; therefore, I pray you to keep it secret from + him, though I do not say that you should not use the money for your common + good, if it be needful; only, in that case, I beg you will not inform him + as to what money you have in your possession, but use it carefully and + prudently for the household wants, and make it last as long as may be. My + good friend, Lady Parton, if still near you, will doubtless aid you in + disposing of the jewels to the best advantage. God bless you, my son! This + is the only secret I ever had from your father, but for your good I have + hidden this one thing from him, and I pray that this deceit, which is + practised for your advantage, may be forgiven me. YOUR LOVING MOTHER." + </p> + <p> + It was some time before Cyril opened the parcel; it contained a jewel-box + in which was a necklace of pearls. After some consideration he took this + to the Curé of St. Ursula, and, giving him his mother's letter to read, + asked him for his advice as to its disposal. + </p> + <p> + "Your mother was a thoughtful and pious woman," the good priest said, + after he had read the letter, "and has acted wisely in your behalf. The + need she foresaw might come, has arisen, and you are surely justified in + using her gift. I will dispose of this trinket for you; it is doubtless of + considerable value. If it should be that your father speedily sends for + you, you ought to lay aside the money for some future necessity. If he + does not come for some time, as may well be—for, from the news that + comes from England, it is like to be many months before affairs are + settled—then draw from it only such amounts as are needed for your + living and education. Study hard, my son, for so will you best be + fulfilling the intentions of your mother. If you like, I will keep the + money in my hands, serving it out to you as you need it; and in order that + you may keep the matter a secret, I will myself go to Baudoin, and tell + him that he need not be disquieted as to the cost of your maintenance, for + that I have money in hand with which to discharge your expenses, so long + as you may remain with him." + </p> + <p> + The next day the Curé informed Cyril that he had disposed of the necklace + for fifty louis. Upon this sum Cyril lived for two years. + </p> + <p> + Things had gone very hardly with Sir Aubrey Shenstone. The King had a + difficult course to steer. To have evicted all those who had obtained + possession of the forfeited estates of the Cavaliers would have been to + excite a deep feeling of resentment among the Nonconformists. In vain Sir + Aubrey pressed his claims, in season and out of season. He had no powerful + friends to aid him; his conduct had alienated the men who could have + assisted him, and, like so many other Cavaliers who had fought and + suffered for Charles I., Sir Aubrey Shenstone found himself left + altogether in the cold. For a time he was able to keep up a fair + appearance, as he obtained loans from Prince Rupert and other Royalists + whom he had known in the old days, and who had been more fortunate than + himself; but the money so obtained lasted but a short time, and it was not + long before he was again in dire straits. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had from the first but little hope that his father would recover his + estates. He had, shortly before his father left France, heard a + conversation between Sir John Parton and a gentleman who was in the inner + circle of Charles's advisers. The latter had said,— + </p> + <p> + "One of the King's great difficulties will be to satisfy the exiles. + Undoubtedly, could he consult his own inclinations only, he would on his + return at once reinstate all those who have suffered in their estates from + their loyalty to his father and himself. But this will be impossible. It + was absolutely necessary for him, in his proclamation at Breda, to promise + an amnesty for all offences, liberty of conscience and an oblivion as to + the past, and he specially says that all questions of grants, sales and + purchases of land, and titles, shall be referred to Parliament. The + Nonconformists are at present in a majority, and although it seems that + all parties are willing to welcome the King back, you may be sure that no + Parliament will consent to anything like a general disturbance of the + possessors of estates formerly owned by Royalists. In a vast number of + cases, the persons to whom such grants were made disposed of them by sale + to others, and it would be as hard on them to be ousted as it is upon the + original proprietors to be kept out of their possession. Truly it is a + most difficult position, and one that will have to be approached with + great judgment, the more so since most of those to whom the lands were + granted were generals, officers, and soldiers of the Parliament, and Monk + would naturally oppose any steps to the detriment of his old comrades. + </p> + <p> + "I fear there will be much bitter disappointment among the exiles, and + that the King will be charged with ingratitude by those who think that he + has only to sign an order for their reinstatement, whereas Charles will + have himself a most difficult course to steer, and will have to govern + himself most circumspectly, so as to give offence to none of the governing + parties. As to his granting estates, or dispossessing their holders, he + will have no more power to do so than you or I. Doubtless some of the + exiles will be restored to their estates; but I fear that the great bulk + are doomed to disappointment. At any rate, for a time no extensive changes + can be made, though it may be that in the distance, when the temper of the + nation at large is better understood, the King will be able to do + something for those who suffered in the cause. + </p> + <p> + "It was all very well for Cromwell, who leant solely on the Army, to + dispense with a Parliament, and to govern far more autocratically than + James or Charles even dreamt of doing; but the Army that supported + Cromwell would certainly not support Charles. It is composed for the most + part of stern fanatics, and will be the first to oppose any attempt of the + King to override the law. No doubt it will erelong be disbanded; but you + will see that Parliament will then recover the authority of which Cromwell + deprived it; and Charles is a far wiser man than his father, and will + never set himself against the feeling of the country. Certainly, anything + like a general reinstatement of the men who have been for the last ten + years haunting the taverns of the Continent is out of the question; they + would speedily create such a revulsion of public opinion as might bring + about another rebellion. Hyde, staunch Royalist as he is, would never + suffer the King to make so grievous an error; nor do I think for a moment + that Charles, who is shrewd and politic, and above all things a lover of + ease and quiet, would think of bringing such a nest of hornets about his + ears." + </p> + <p> + When, after his return to England, it became evident that Sir Aubrey had + but small chance of reinstatement in his lands, his former friends began + to close their purses and to refuse to grant further loans, and he was + presently reduced to straits as severe as those he had suffered during his + exile. The good spirits that had borne him up so long failed now, and he + grew morose and petulant. His loyalty to the King was unshaken; Charles + had several times granted him audiences, and had assured him that, did it + rest with him, justice should be at once dealt to him, but that he was + practically powerless in the matter, and the knight's resentment was + concentrated upon Hyde, now Lord Clarendon, and the rest of the King's + advisers. He wrote but seldom to Cyril; he had no wish to have the boy + with him until he could take him down with him in triumph to Norfolk, and + show him to the tenants as his heir. Living from hand to mouth as he did, + he worried but little as to how Cyril was getting on. + </p> + <p> + "The lad has fallen on his feet somehow," he said, "and he is better where + he is than he would be with me. I suppose when he wants money he will + write and say so, though where I should get any to send to him I know not. + Anyhow, I need not worry about him at present." + </p> + <p> + Cyril, indeed, had written to him soon after the sale of the necklace, + telling him that he need not distress himself about his condition, for + that he had obtained sufficient money for his present necessities from the + sale of a small trinket his mother had given him before her death, and + that when this was spent he should doubtless find some means of earning + his living until he could rejoin him. His father never inquired into the + matter, though he made a casual reference to it in his next letter, saying + that he was glad Cyril had obtained some money, as it would, at the + moment, have been inconvenient to him to send any over. + </p> + <p> + Cyril worked assiduously at the school that had been recommended to him by + the Curé, and at the end of two years he had still twenty louis left. He + had several conversations with his adviser as to the best way of earning + his living. + </p> + <p> + "I do not wish to spend any more, Father," he said, "and would fain keep + this for some future necessity." + </p> + <p> + The Curé agreed with him as to this, and, learning from his master that he + was extremely quick at figures and wrote an excellent hand, he obtained a + place for him with one of the principal traders of the town. He was to + receive no salary for a year, but was to learn book-keeping and accounts. + Although but fourteen, the boy was so intelligent and zealous that his + employer told the Curé that he found him of real service, and that he was + able to entrust some of his books entirely to his charge. + </p> + <p> + Six months after entering his service, however, Cyril received a letter + from his father, saying that he believed his affairs were on the point of + settlement, and therefore wished him to come over in the first ship + sailing. He enclosed an order on a house at Dunkirk for fifty francs, to + pay his passage. His employer parted with him with regret, and the kind + Curé bade him farewell in terms of real affection, for he had come to take + a great interest in him. + </p> + <p> + "At any rate, Cyril," he said, "your time here has not been wasted, and + your mother's gift has been turned to as much advantage as even she can + have hoped that it would be. Should your father's hopes be again + disappointed, and fresh delays arise, you may, with the practice you have + had, be able to earn your living in London. There must be there, as in + France, many persons in trade who have had but little education, and you + may be able to obtain employment in keeping the books of such people, who + are, I believe, more common in England than here. Here are the sixteen + louis that still remain; put them aside, Cyril, and use them only for + urgent necessity." + </p> + <p> + Cyril, on arriving in London, was heartily welcomed by his father, who + had, for the moment, high hopes of recovering his estates. These, however, + soon faded, and although Sir Aubrey would not allow it, even to himself, + no chance remained of those Royalists, who had, like him, parted with + their estates for trifling sums, to be spent in the King's service, ever + regaining possession of them. + </p> + <p> + It was not long before Cyril perceived that unless he himself obtained + work of some sort they would soon be face to face with actual starvation. + He said nothing to his father, but started out one morning on a round of + visits among the smaller class of shopkeepers, offering to make up their + books and write out their bills and accounts for a small remuneration. As + he had a frank and pleasant face, and his foreign bringing up had given + him an ease and politeness of manner rare among English lads of the day, + it was not long before he obtained several clients. To some of the smaller + class of traders he went only for an hour or two, once a week, while + others required their bills and accounts to be made out daily. The pay was + very small, but it sufficed to keep absolute want from the door. When he + told his father of the arrangements he had made, Sir Aubrey at first raged + and stormed; but he had come, during the last year or two, to recognise + the good sense and strong will of his son, and although he never verbally + acquiesced in what he considered a degradation, he offered no actual + opposition to a plan that at least enabled them to live, and furnished him + occasionally with a few groats with which he could visit a tavern. + </p> + <p> + So things had gone on for more than a year. Cyril was now sixteen, and his + punctuality, and the neatness of his work, had been so appreciated by the + tradesmen who first employed him, that his time was now fully occupied, + and that at rates more remunerative than those he had at first obtained. + He kept the state of his resources to himself, and had no difficulty in + doing this, as his father never alluded to the subject of his work. Cyril + knew that, did he hand over to him all the money he made, it would be + wasted in drink or at cards; consequently, he kept the table furnished as + modestly as at first, and regularly placed after dinner on the corner of + the mantel a few coins, which his father as regularly dropped into his + pocket. + </p> + <p> + A few days before the story opens, Sir Aubrey had, late one evening, been + carried upstairs, mortally wounded in a brawl; he only recovered + consciousness a few minutes before his death. + </p> + <p> + "You have been a good lad, Cyril," he said faintly, as he feebly pressed + the boy's hand; "far better than I deserve to have had. Don't cry, lad; + you will get on better without me, and things are just as well as they + are. I hope you will come to your estates some day; you will make a better + master than I should ever have done. I hope that in time you will carry + out your plan of entering some foreign service; there is no chance here. I + don't want you to settle down as a city scrivener. Still, do as you like, + lad, and unless your wishes go with mine, think no further of service." + </p> + <p> + "I would rather be a soldier, father. I only undertook this work because I + could see nothing else." + </p> + <p> + "That is right, my boy, that is right. I know you won't forget that you + come of a race of gentlemen." + </p> + <p> + He spoke but little after that. A few broken words came from his lips that + showed that his thoughts had gone back to old times. "Boot and saddle," he + murmured. "That is right. Now we are ready for them. Down with the + prick-eared knaves! God and King Charles!" These were the last words he + spoke. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had done all that was necessary. He had laid by more than half his + earnings for the last eight or nine months. One of his clients, an + undertaker, had made all the necessary preparations for the funeral, and + in a few hours his father would be borne to his last resting-place. As he + stood at the open window he thought sadly over the past, and of his + father's wasted life. Had it not been for the war he might have lived and + died a country gentleman. It was the war, with its wild excitements, that + had ruined him. What was there for him to do in a foreign country, without + resource or employment, having no love for reading, but to waste his life + as he had done? Had his wife lived it might have been different. Cyril had + still a vivid remembrance of his mother, and, though his father had but + seldom spoken to him of her, he knew that he had loved her, and that, had + she lived, he would never have given way to drink as he had done of late + years. + </p> + <p> + To his father's faults he could not be blind; but they stood for nothing + now. He had been his only friend, and of late they had been drawn closer + to each other in their loneliness; and although scarce a word of + endearment had passed between them, he knew that his father had cared for + him more than was apparent in his manner. + </p> + <p> + A few hours later, Sir Aubrey Shenstone was laid to rest in a little + graveyard outside the city walls. Cyril was the only mourner; and when it + was over, instead of going back to his lonely room, he turned away and + wandered far out through the fields towards Hampstead, and then sat + himself down to think what he had best do. Another three or four years + must pass before he could try to get service abroad. When the time came he + should find Sir John Parton, and beg him to procure for him some letter of + introduction to the many British gentlemen serving abroad. He had not seen + him since he came to England. His father had met him, but had quarrelled + with him upon Sir John declining to interest himself actively to push his + claims, and had forbidden Cyril to go near those who had been so kind to + him. + </p> + <p> + The boy had felt it greatly at first, but he came, after a time, to see + that it was best so. It seemed to him that he had fallen altogether out of + their station in life when the hope of his father's recovering his estates + vanished, and although he was sure of a kindly reception from Lady Parton, + he shrank from going there in his present position. They had done so much + for him already, that the thought that his visit might seem to them a sort + of petition for further benefits was intolerable to him. + </p> + <p> + For the present, the question in his mind was whether he should continue + at his present work, which at any rate sufficed to keep him, or should + seek other employment. He would greatly have preferred some life of + action,—something that would fit him better to bear the fatigues and + hardships of war,—but he saw no prospect of obtaining any such + position. + </p> + <p> + "I should be a fool to throw up what I have," he said to himself at last. + "I will stick to it anyhow until some opportunity offers; but the sooner I + leave it the better. It was bad enough before; it will be worse now. If I + had but a friend or two it would not be so hard; but to have no one to + speak to, and no one to think about, when work is done, will be lonely + indeed." + </p> + <p> + At any rate, he determined to change his room as soon as possible. It + mattered little where he went so that it was a change. He thought over + various tradesmen for whom he worked. Some of them might have an attic, he + cared not how small, that they might let him have in lieu of paying him + for his work. Even if they never spoke to him, it would be better to be in + a house where he knew something of those downstairs, than to lodge in one + where he was an utter stranger to all. He had gone round to the shops + where he worked, on the day after his father's death, to explain that he + could not come again until after the funeral, and he resolved that next + morning he would ask each in turn whether he could obtain a lodging with + them. + </p> + <p> + The sun was already setting when he rose from the bank on which he had + seated himself, and returned to the city. The room did not feel so lonely + to him as it would have done had he not been accustomed to spending the + evenings alone. He took out his little hoard and counted it. After paying + the expenses of the funeral there would still remain sufficient to keep + him for three or four months should he fall ill, or, from any cause, lose + his work. He had one good suit of clothes that had been bought on his + return to England,—when his father thought that they would assuredly + be going down almost immediately to take possession of the old Hall,—and + the rest were all in fair condition. + </p> + <p> + The next day he began his work again; he had two visits to pay of an hour + each, and one of two hours, and the spare time between these he filled up + by calling at two or three other shops to make up for the arrears of work + during the last few days. + </p> + <p> + The last place he had to visit was that at which he had the longest task + to perform. It was at a ship-chandler's in Tower Street, a large and dingy + house, the lower portion being filled with canvas, cordage, barrels of + pitch and tar, candles, oil, and matters of all sorts needed by + ship-masters, including many cannon of different sizes, piles of balls, + anchors, and other heavy work, all of which were stowed away in a yard + behind it. The owner of this store was a one-armed man. His father had + kept it before him, but he himself, after working there long enough to + become a citizen and a member of the Ironmongers' Guild, had quarrelled + with his father and had taken to the sea. For twenty years he had voyaged + to many lands, principally in ships trading in the Levant, and had passed + through a great many adventures, including several fights with the Moorish + corsairs. In the last voyage he took, he had had his arm shot off by a + ball from a Greek pirate among the Islands. He had long before made up his + differences with his father, but had resisted the latter's entreaties that + he should give up the sea and settle down at the shop; on his return after + this unfortunate voyage he told him that he had come home to stay. + </p> + <p> + "I shall be able to help about the stores after a while," he said, "but I + shall never be the man I was on board ship. It will be hard work to take + to measuring out canvas and to weighing iron, after a free life on the + sea, but I don't so much mind now I have had my share of adventures; + though I dare say I should have gone on for a few more years if that + rascally ball had not carried away my arm. I don't know but that it is + best as it is, for the older I got the harder I should find it to fall + into new ways and to settle down here." + </p> + <p> + "Anyhow, I am glad you are back, David," his father said. + </p> + <p> + "You are forty-five, and though I don't say it would not have been better + if you had remained here from the first, you have learnt many things you + would not have learnt here. You know just the sort of things that masters + of ships require, and what canvas and cables and cordage will suit their + wants. Besides, customers like to talk with men of their own way of + thinking, and sailors more, I think, than other men. You know, too, most + of the captains who sail up the Mediterranean, and may be able to bring + fresh custom into the shop. Therefore, do not think that you will be of no + use to me. As to your wife and child, there is plenty of room for them as + well as for you, and it will be better for them here, with you always at + hand, than it would be for them to remain over at Rotherhithe and only to + see you after the shutters are up." + </p> + <p> + Eight years later Captain Dave, as he was always called, became sole owner + of the house and business. A year after he did so he was lamenting to a + friend the trouble that he had with his accounts. + </p> + <p> + "My father always kept that part of the business in his own hands," he + said, "and I find it a mighty heavy burden. Beyond checking a bill of + lading, or reading the marks on the bales and boxes, I never had occasion + to read or write for twenty years, and there has not been much more of it + for the last fifteen; and although I was a smart scholar enough in my + young days, my fingers are stiff with hauling at ropes and using the + marling-spike, and my eyes are not so clear as they used to be, and it is + no slight toil and labour to me to make up an account for goods sold. John + Wilkes, my head shopman, is a handy fellow; he was my boatswain in the <i>Kate</i>, + and I took him on when we found that the man who had been my father's + right hand for twenty years had been cheating him all along. We got on + well enough as long as I could give all my time in the shop; but he is no + good with the pen—all he can do is to enter receipts and sales. + </p> + <p> + "He has a man under him, who helps him in measuring out the right length + of canvas and cables or for weighing a chain or an anchor, and knows + enough to put down the figures; but that is all. Then there are the two + smiths and the two apprentices; they don't count in the matter. Robert + Ashford, the eldest apprentice, could do the work, but I have no fancy for + him; he does not look one straight in the face as one who is honest and + above board should do. I shall have to keep a clerk, and I know what it + will be—he will be setting me right, and I shall not feel my own + master; he will be out of place in my crew altogether. I never liked + pursers; most of them are rogues. Still, I suppose it must come to that." + </p> + <p> + "I have a boy come in to write my bills and to make up my accounts, who + would be just the lad for you, Captain Dave. He is the son of a + broken-down Cavalier, but he is a steady, honest young fellow, and I fancy + his pen keeps his father, who is a roystering blade, and spends most of + his time at the taverns. The boy comes to me for an hour, twice a week; he + writes as good a hand as any clerk and can reckon as quickly, and I pay + him but a groat a week, which was all he asked." + </p> + <p> + "Tell him to come to me, then. I should want him every day, if he could + manage it, and it would be the very thing for me." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure you would like him," the other said; "he is a good-looking + young fellow, and his face speaks for him without any recommendation. I + was afraid at first that he would not do for me; I thought there was too + much of the gentleman about him. He has good manners, and a gentle sort of + way. He has been living in France all his life, and though he has never + said anything about his family—indeed he talks but little, he just + comes in and does his work and goes away—I fancy his father was one + of King Charles's men and of good blood." + </p> + <p> + "Well, that doesn't sound so well," the sailor said, "but anyhow I should + like to have a look at him." + </p> + <p> + "He comes to me to-morrow at eleven and goes at twelve," the man said, + "and I will send him round to you when he has done." + </p> + <p> + Cyril had gone round the next morning to the ships' store. + </p> + <p> + "So you are the lad that works for my neighbour Anderson?" Captain Dave + said, as he surveyed him closely. "I like your looks, lad, but I doubt + whether we shall get on together. I am an old sailor, you know, and I am + quick of speech and don't stop to choose my words, so if you are quick to + take offence it would be of no use your coming to me." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think I am likely to take offence," Cyril said quietly; "and if + we don't get on well together, sir, you will only have to tell me that you + don't want me any longer; but I trust you will not have often the occasion + to use hard words, for at any rate I will do my best to please you." + </p> + <p> + "You can't say more, lad. Well, let us have a taste of your quality. Come + in here," and he led him into a little room partitioned off from the shop. + "There, you see," and he opened a book, "is the account of the sales and + orders yesterday; the ready-money sales have got to be entered in that + ledger with the red cover; the sales where no money passed have to be + entered to the various customers or ships in the ledger. I have made out a + list—here it is—of twelve accounts that have to be drawn out + from that ledger and sent in to customers. You will find some of them are + of somewhat long standing, for I have been putting off that job. Sit you + down here. When you have done one or two of them I will have a look at + your work, and if that is satisfactory we will have a talk as to what + hours you have got disengaged, and what days in the week will suit you + best." + </p> + <p> + It was two hours before Captain Dave came in again. Cyril had just + finished the work; some of the accounts were long ones, and the writing + was so crabbed that it took him some time to decipher it. + </p> + <p> + "Well, how are you getting on, lad?" the Captain asked. + </p> + <p> + "I have this moment finished the last account." + </p> + <p> + "What! Do you mean to say that you have done them all! Why, it would have + taken me all my evenings for a week. Now, hand me the books; it is best to + do things ship-shape." + </p> + <p> + He first compared the list of the sales with the entries, and then Cyril + handed him the twelve accounts he had drawn up. Captain David did not + speak until he had finished looking through them. + </p> + <p> + "I would not have believed all that work could have been done in two + hours," he said, getting up from his chair. "Orderly and well written, and + without a blot. The King's secretary could not have done better! Well, now + you have seen the list of sales for a day, and I take it that be about the + average, so if you come three times a week you will always have two days' + sales to enter in the ledger. There are a lot of other books my father + used to keep, but I have never had time to bother myself about them, and + as I have got on very well so far, I do not see any occasion for you to do + so, for my part it seems to me that all these books are only invented by + clerks to give themselves something to do to fill up their time. Of + course, there won't be accounts to send out every day. Do you think with + two hours, three times a week, you could keep things straight?" + </p> + <p> + "I should certainly think so, sir, but I can hardly say until I try, + because it seems to me that there must be a great many items, and I can't + say how long it will take entering all the goods received under their + proper headings; but if the books are thoroughly made up now, I should + think I could keep them all going." + </p> + <p> + "That they are not," Captain David said ruefully; "they are all horribly + in arrears. I took charge of them myself three years ago, and though I + spend three hours every evening worrying over them, they get further and + further in arrears. Look at those files over there," and he pointed to + three long wires, on each of which was strung a large bundle of papers; "I + am afraid you will have to enter them all up before you can get matters + into ship-shape order. The daily sale book is the only one that has been + kept up regularly." + </p> + <p> + "But these accounts I have made up, sir? Probably in those files there are + many other goods supplied to the same people." + </p> + <p> + "Of course there are, lad, though I did not think of it before. Well, we + must wait, then, until you can make up the arrears a bit, though I really + want to get some money in." + </p> + <p> + "Well, sir, I might write at the bottom of each bill 'Account made up to,' + and then put in the date of the latest entry charged." + </p> + <p> + "That would do capitally, lad—I did not think of that. I see you + will be of great use to me. I can buy and sell, for I know the value of + the goods I deal in; but as to accounts, they are altogether out of my + way. And now, lad, what do you charge?" + </p> + <p> + "I charge a groat for two hours' work, sir; but if I came to you three + times a week, I would do it for a little less." + </p> + <p> + "No, lad, I don't want to beat you down; indeed, I don't think you charge + enough. However, let us say, to begin with, three groats a week." + </p> + <p> + This had been six weeks before Sir Aubrey Shenstone's death; and in the + interval Cyril had gradually wiped off all the arrears, and had all the + books in order up to date, to the astonishment of his employer. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II — A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER + </h2> + <p> + "I am glad to see you again, lad," Captain David said, when Cyril entered + his shop. "I have been thinking of the news you gave me last week, and the + mistress and I have been talking it over. Where are you lodging?" + </p> + <p> + "I have been lodging until now in Holborn," Cyril replied; "but I am going + to move." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; that is what we thought you would be doing. It is always better to + make a change after a loss. I don't want to interfere in your business, + lad, but have you any friends you are thinking of going to?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; I do not know a soul in London save those I work for." + </p> + <p> + "That is bad, lad—very bad. I was talking it over with my wife, and + I said that maybe you were lonely. I am sure, lad, you are one of the + right sort. I don't mean only in your work, for as for that I would back + you against any scrivener in London, but I mean about yourself. It don't + need half an eye to see that you have not been brought up to this sort of + thing, though you have taken to it so kindly, but there is not one in a + thousand boys of your age who would have settled down to work and made + their way without a friend to help them as you have done; it shows that + there is right good stuff in you. There, I am so long getting under weigh + that I shall never get into port if I don't steer a straight course. Now, + my ideas and my wife's come to this: if you have got no friends you will + have to take a lodging somewhere among strangers, and then it would be one + of two things—you would either stop at home and mope by yourself, or + you would go out, and maybe get into bad company. If I had not come across + you I should have had to employ a clerk, and he would either have lived + here with us or I should have had to pay him enough to keep house for + himself. Now in fact you are a clerk; for though you are only here for six + hours a week—you do all the work there is to do, and no clerk could + do more. Well, we have got an attic upstairs which is not used, and if you + like to come here and live with us, my wife and I will make you heartily + welcome." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, indeed," Cyril said warmly. "It is of all things what I should + like; but of course I should wish to pay you for my board. I can afford to + do so if you will employ me for the same hours as at present." + </p> + <p> + "No, I would not have that, lad; but if you like we can reckon your board + against what I now pay you. We feed John Wilkes and the two apprentices, + and one mouth extra will make but little difference. I don't want it to be + a matter of obligation, so we will put your board against the work you do + for me. I shall consider that we are making a good bargain." + </p> + <p> + "It is your pleasure to say so, sir, but I cannot tell you what a load + your kind offer takes off my mind. The future has seemed very dark to me." + </p> + <p> + "Very well. That matter is settled, then. Come upstairs with me and I will + present you to my wife and daughter; they have heard me speak of you so + often that they will be glad to see you. In the first place, though, I + must ask you your name. Since you first signed articles and entered the + crew I have never thought of asking you." + </p> + <p> + "My name is Cyril, sir—Cyril Shenstone." + </p> + <p> + His employer nodded and at once led the way upstairs. A motherly looking + woman rose from the seat where she was sitting at work, as they entered + the living-room. + </p> + <p> + "This is my Prince of Scriveners, Mary, the lad I have often spoken to you + about. His name is Cyril; he has accepted the proposal we talked over last + night, and is going to become one of the crew on board our ship." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to see you," she said to Cyril, holding out her hand to him. "I + have not met you before, but I feel very grateful to you. Till you came, + my husband was bothered nearly out of his wits; he used to sit here + worrying over his books, and writing from the time the shop closed till + the hour for bed, and Nellie and I dared not to say as much as a word. Now + we see no more of his books, and he is able to go out for a walk in the + fields with us as he used to do before." + </p> + <p> + "It is very kind of you to say so, Mistress," Cyril said earnestly; "but + it is I, on the contrary, who am deeply grateful to you for the offer + Captain Dave has been good enough to make me. You cannot tell the pleasure + it has given me, for you cannot understand how lonely and friendless I + have been feeling. Believe me, I will strive to give you as little trouble + as possible, and to conform myself in all ways to your wishes." + </p> + <p> + At this moment Nellie Dowsett came into the room. She was a pretty girl + some eighteen years of age. + </p> + <p> + "This is Cyril, your father's assistant, Nellie," her mother said. + </p> + <p> + "You are welcome, Master Cyril. I have been wanting to see you. Father has + been praising you up to the skies so often that I have had quite a + curiosity to see what you could be like." + </p> + <p> + "Your father is altogether too good, Mistress Nellie, and makes far more + of my poor ability than it deserves." + </p> + <p> + "And is he going to live with us, mother?" Nellie asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, child; he has accepted your father's offer." + </p> + <p> + Nellie clapped her hands. + </p> + <p> + "That is good," she said. "I shall expect you to escort me out sometimes, + Cyril. Father always wants me to go down to the wharf to look at the ships + or to go into the fields; but I want to go sometimes to see the fashions, + and there is no one to take me, for John Wilkes always goes off to smoke a + pipe with some sailor or other, and the apprentices are stupid and have + nothing to say for themselves; and besides, one can't walk alongside a boy + in an apprentice cap." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be very happy to, Mistress, when my work is done, though I fear + that I shall make but a poor escort, for indeed I have had no practice + whatever in the esquiring of dames." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure you will do very well," Nellie said, nodding approvingly. "Is + it true that you have been in France? Father said he was told so." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I have lived almost all my life in France." + </p> + <p> + "And do you speak French?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I speak it as well as English." + </p> + <p> + "It must have been very hard to learn?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all. It came to me naturally, just as English did." + </p> + <p> + "You must not keep him any longer now, Nellie; he has other appointments + to keep, and when he has done that, to go and pack up his things and see + that they are brought here by a porter. He can answer some more of your + questions when he comes here this evening." + </p> + <p> + Cyril returned to Holborn with a lighter heart than he had felt for a long + time. His preparations for the move took him but a short time, and two + hours later he was installed in a little attic in the ship-chandler's + house. He spent half-an-hour in unpacking his things, and then heard a + stentorian shout from below,— + </p> + <p> + "Masthead, ahoy! Supper's waiting." + </p> + <p> + Supposing that this hail was intended for himself, he at once went + downstairs. The table was laid. Mistress Dowsett took her seat at the + head; her husband sat on one side of her, and Nellie on the other. John + Wilkes sat next to his master, and beyond him the elder of the two + apprentices. A seat was left between Nellie and the other apprentice for + Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "Now our crew is complete, John," Captain Dave said. "We have been wanting + a supercargo badly." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, Captain Dave, there is no doubt we have been short-handed in that + respect; but things have been more ship-shape lately." + </p> + <p> + "That is so, John. I can make a shift to keep the vessel on her course, + but when it comes to writing up the log, and keeping the reckoning, I make + but a poor hand at it. It was getting to be as bad as that voyage of the + <i>Jane</i> in the Levant, when the supercargo had got himself stabbed at + Lemnos." + </p> + <p> + "I mind it, Captain—I mind it well. And what a trouble there was + with the owners when we got back again!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, yes," the Captain said; "it was worse work than having a brush with + a Barbary corsair. I shall never forget that day. When I went to the + office to report, the three owners were all in. + </p> + <p> + "'Well, Captain Dave, back from your voyage?' said the littlest of the + three. 'Made a good voyage, I hope?' + </p> + <p> + "First-rate, says I, except that the supercargo got killed at Lemnos by + one of them rascally Greeks. + </p> + <p> + "'Dear, dear,' said another of them—he was a prim, sanctimonious + sort—'Has our brother Jenkins left us?' + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about his leaving us, says I, but we left him sure enough in + a burying-place there. + </p> + <p> + "'And how did you manage without him?' + </p> + <p> + "I made as good a shift as I could, I said. I have sold all the cargo, and + I have brought back a freight of six tons of Turkey figs, and four hundred + boxes of currants. And these two bags hold the difference. + </p> + <p> + "'Have you brought the books with you, Captain?' + </p> + <p> + "Never a book, said I. I have had to navigate the ship and to look after + the crew, and do the best I could at each port. The books are on board, + made out up to the day before the supercargo was killed, three months ago; + but I have never had time to make an entry since. + </p> + <p> + "They looked at each other like owls for a minute or two, and then they + all began to talk at once. How had I sold the goods? had I charged the + prices mentioned in the invoice? what percentage had I put on for profit? + and a lot of other things. I waited until they were all out of breath, and + then I said I had not bothered about invoices. I knew pretty well the + prices such things cost in England. I clapped on so much more for the + expenses of the voyage and a fair profit. I could tell them what I had + paid for the figs and the currants, and for some bags of Smyrna sponges I + had bought, but as to the prices I had charged, it was too much to expect + that I could carry them in my head. All I knew was I had paid for the + things I had bought, I had paid all the port dues and other charges, I had + advanced the men one-fourth of their wages each month, and I had brought + them back the balance. + </p> + <p> + "Such a hubbub you never heard. One would have thought they would have + gone raving mad. The sanctimonious partner was the worst of the lot. He + threatened me with the Lord Mayor and the Aldermen, and went on till I + thought he would have had a fit. + </p> + <p> + "Look here, says I, at last, I'll tell you what I will do. You tell me + what the cargo cost you altogether, and put on so much for the hire of the + ship. I will pay you for them and settle up with the crew, and take the + cargo and sell it. That is a fair offer. And I advise you to keep civil + tongues in your heads, or I will knock them off and take my chance before + the Lord Mayor for assault and battery. + </p> + <p> + "With that I took off my coat and laid it on a bench. I reckon they saw + that I was in earnest, and they just sat as mum as mice. Then the little + man said, in a quieter sort of voice,— + </p> + <p> + "'You are too hasty, Captain Dowsett. We know you to be an honest man and + a good sailor, and had no suspicion that you would wrong us; but no + merchant in the City of London could hear that his business had been + conducted in such a way as you have carried it through without for a time + losing countenance. Let us talk the matter over reasonably and quietly.' + </p> + <p> + "That is just what I am wanting, I said; and if there hasn't been reason + and quiet it is from no fault of mine. + </p> + <p> + "'Well, please to put your coat on again, Captain, and let us see how + matters stand!' + </p> + <p> + "Then they took their ink-horns and pens, and, on finding out what I had + paid for the figs and other matters, they reckoned them up; then they put + down what I said was due to the sailors and the mate and myself; then they + got out some books, and for an hour they were busy reckoning up figures; + then they opened the bags and counted up the gold we had brought home. + Well, when they had done, you would hardly have known them for the same + men. First of all, they went through all their calculations again to be + sure they had made no mistake about them; then they laid down their pens, + and the sanctimonious man mopped the perspiration from his face, and the + others smiled at each other. Then the biggest of the three, who had + scarcely spoken before, said,— + </p> + <p> + "'Well, Captain Dowsett, I must own that my partners were a little hasty. + The result of our calculations is that the voyage has been a satisfactory + one, I may almost say very satisfactory, and that you must have disposed + of the goods to much advantage. It has been a new and somewhat + extraordinary way of doing business, but I am bound to say that the result + has exceeded our expectations, and we trust that you will command the <i>Jane</i> + for many more voyages.' + </p> + <p> + "Not for me, says I. You can hand me over the wages due to me, and you + will find the <i>Jane</i> moored in the stream just above the Tower. You + will find her in order and shipshape; but never again do I set my foot on + board her or on any other vessel belonging to men who have doubted my + honesty. + </p> + <p> + "Nor did I. I had a pretty good name among traders, and ten days later I + started for the Levant again in command of a far smarter vessel than the + <i>Jane</i> had ever been." + </p> + <p> + "And we all went with you, Captain," John Wilkes said, "every man jack of + us. And on her very next voyage the <i>Jane</i> was captured by the + Algerines, and I reckon there are some of the poor fellows working as + slaves there now; for though Blake did blow the place pretty nigh out of + water a few years afterwards, it is certain that the Christian slaves + handed over to him were not half those the Moors had in their hands." + </p> + <p> + "It would seem, Captain Dowsett, from your story, that you can manage very + well without a supercargo?" Cyril said quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, lad; but you see that was a ready-money business. I handed over the + goods and took the cash; there was no accounts to be kept. It was all + clear and above board. But it is a different thing in this ship + altogether, when, instead of paying down on the nail for what they get, + you have got to keep an account of everything and send in all their items + jotted down in order. Why, Nellie, your tongue seems quieter than usual." + </p> + <p> + "You have not given me a chance, father. You have been talking ever since + we sat down to table." + </p> + <p> + Supper was now over. The two apprentices at once retired. Cyril would have + done the same, but Mistress Dowsett said,— + </p> + <p> + "Sit you still, Cyril. The Captain says that you are to be considered as + one of the officers of the ship, and we shall be always glad to have you + here, though of course you can always go up to your own room, or go out, + when you feel inclined." + </p> + <p> + "I have to go out three times a week to work," Cyril said; "but all the + other evenings I shall be glad indeed to sit here, Mistress Dowsett. You + cannot tell what a pleasure it is to me to be in an English home like + this." + </p> + <p> + It was not long before John Wilkes went out. + </p> + <p> + "He is off to smoke his pipe," the Captain said. "I never light mine till + he goes. I can't persuade him to take his with me; he insists it would not + be manners to smoke in the cabin." + </p> + <p> + "He is quite right, father," Nellie said. "It is bad enough having you + smoke here. When mother's friends or mine come in they are well-nigh + choked; they are not accustomed to it as we are, for a respectable London + citizen does not think of taking tobacco." + </p> + <p> + "I am a London citizen, Nellie, but I don't set up any special claim to + respectability. I am a sea-captain, though that rascally Greek cannon-ball + and other circumstances have made a trader of me, sorely against my will; + and if I could not have my pipe and my glass of grog here I would go and + sit with John Wilkes in the tavern at the corner of the street, and I + suppose that would not be even as respectable as smoking here." + </p> + <p> + "Nellie doesn't mean, David, that she wants you to give up smoking; only + she thinks that John is quite right to go out to take his pipe. And I must + say I think so too. You know that when you have sea-captains of your + acquaintance here, you always send the maid off to bed and smoke in the + kitchen." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, my dear, I don't want to turn your room into a fo'castle. There + is reason in all things. I suppose you don't smoke, Master Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Captain Dave, I have never so much as thought of such a thing. In + France it is the fashion to take snuff, but the habit seemed to me a + useless one, and I don't think that I should ever have taken to it." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder," Captain Dave said, after they had talked for some time, "that + after living in sight of the sea for so long your thoughts never turned + that way." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot say that I have never thought of it," Cyril said. "I have + thought that I should greatly like to take foreign voyages, but I should + not have cared to go as a ship's boy, and to live with men so ignorant + that they could not even write their own names. My thoughts have turned + rather to the Army; and when I get older I think of entering some foreign + service, either that of Sweden or of one of the Protestant German princes. + I could obtain introductions through which I might enter as a cadet, or + gentleman volunteer. I have learnt German, and though I cannot speak it as + I can French or English, I know enough to make my way in it." + </p> + <p> + "Can you use your sword, Cyril?" Nellie Dowsett asked. + </p> + <p> + "I have had very good teaching," Cyril replied, "and hope to be able to + hold my own." + </p> + <p> + "Then you are not satisfied with this mode of life?" Mistress Dowsett + said. + </p> + <p> + "I am satisfied with it, Mistress, inasmuch as I can earn money sufficient + to keep me. But rather than settle down for life as a city scrivener, I + would go down to the river and ship on board the first vessel that would + take me, no matter where she sailed for." + </p> + <p> + "I think you are wrong," Mistress Dowsett said gravely. "My husband tells + me how clever you are at figures, and you might some day get a good post + in the house of one of our great merchants." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe it would be so," Cyril said; "but such a life would ill suit me. I + have truly a great desire to earn money: but it must be in some way to + suit my taste." + </p> + <p> + "And why do you want to earn a great deal of money, Cyril?" Nellie + laughed, while her mother shook her head disapprovingly. + </p> + <p> + "I wish to have enough to buy my father's estate back again," he said, + "and though I know well enough that it is not likely I shall ever do it, I + shall fight none the worse that I have such a hope in my mind." + </p> + <p> + "Bravo, lad!" Captain Dave said. "I knew not that there was an estate in + the case, though I did hear that you were the son of a Royalist. It is a + worthy ambition, boy, though if it is a large one 'tis scarce like that + you will get enough to buy it back again." + </p> + <p> + "It is not a very large one," Cyril said. "'Tis down in Norfolk, but it + was a grand old house—at least, so I have heard my father say, + though I have but little remembrance of it, as I was but three years old + when I left it. My father, who was Sir Aubrey Shenstone, had hoped to + recover it; but he was one of the many who sold their estates for far less + than their value in order to raise money in the King's service, and, as + you are aware, none of those who did so have been reinstated, but only + those who, having had their land taken from them by Parliament, recovered + them because their owners had no title-deeds to show, save the grant of + Parliament that was of no effect in the Courts. Thus the most loyal men—those + who sold their estates to aid the King—have lost all, while those + that did not so dispossess themselves in his service are now replaced on + their land." + </p> + <p> + "It seems very unfair," Nellie said indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "It is unfair to them, assuredly, Mistress Nellie. And yet it would be + unfair to the men who bought, though often they gave but a tenth of their + value, to be turned out again unless they received their money back. It is + not easy to see where that money could come from, for assuredly the King's + privy purse would not suffice to pay all the money, and equally certain is + it that Parliament would not vote a great sum for that purpose." + </p> + <p> + "It is a hard case, lad—a hard case," Captain Dave said, as he + puffed the smoke from his pipe. "Now I know how you stand, I blame, you in + no way that you long more for a life of adventure than to settle down as a + city scrivener. I don't think even my wife, much as she thinks of the + city, could say otherwise." + </p> + <p> + "It alters the case much," Mistress Dowsett said. "I did not know that + Cyril was the son of a Knight, though it was easy enough to see that his + manners accord not with his present position. Still there are fortunes + made in the city, and no honest work is dishonouring even to a gentleman's + son." + </p> + <p> + "Not at all, Mistress," Cyril said warmly. "'Tis assuredly not on that + account that I would fain seek more stirring employment; but it was always + my father's wish and intention that, should there be no chance of his ever + regaining the estate, I should enter foreign service, and I have always + looked forward to that career." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I will wager that you will do credit to it, lad," Captain Dave + said. "You have proved that you are ready to turn your hand to any work + that may come to you. You have shown a manly spirit, my boy, and I honour + you for it; and by St. Anthony I believe that some day, unless a + musket-ball or a pike-thrust brings you up with a round turn, you will + live to get your own back again." + </p> + <p> + Cyril remained talking for another two hours, and then betook himself to + bed. After he had gone, Mistress Dowsett said, after a pause,— + </p> + <p> + "Do you not think, David, that, seeing that Cyril is the son of a Knight, + it would be more becoming to give him the room downstairs instead of the + attic where he is now lodged?" + </p> + <p> + The old sailor laughed. + </p> + <p> + "That is woman-kind all over," he said. "It was good enough for him + before, and now forsooth, because the lad mentioned, and assuredly in no + boasting way, that his father had been a Knight, he is to be treated + differently. He would not thank you himself for making the change, dame. + In the first place, it would make him uncomfortable, and he might make an + excuse to leave us altogether; and in the second, you may be sure that he + has been used to no better quarters than those he has got. The Royalists + in France were put to sore shifts to live, and I fancy that he has fared + no better since he came home. His father would never have consented to his + going out to earn money by keeping the accounts of little city traders + like myself had it not been that he was driven to it by want. No, no, + wife; let the boy go on as he is, and make no difference in any way. I + liked him before, and I like him all the better now, for putting his + gentlemanship in his pocket and setting manfully to work instead of + hanging on the skirts of some Royalist who has fared better than his + father did. He is grateful as it is—that is easy to see—for + our taking him in here. We did that partly because he proved a good worker + and has taken a lot of care off my shoulders, partly because he was + fatherless and alone. I would not have him think that we are ready to do + more because he is a Knight's son. Let the boy be, and suffer him to steer + his ship his own course. If, when the time comes, we can further his + objects in any way we will do it with right good will. What do you think + of him, Nellie?" he asked, changing the subject. + </p> + <p> + "He is a proper young fellow, father, and I shall be well content to go + abroad escorted by him instead of having your apprentice, Robert Ashford, + in attendance on me. He has not a word to say for himself, and truly I + like him not in anyway." + </p> + <p> + "He is not a bad apprentice, Nellie, and John Wilkes has but seldom cause + to find fault with him, though I own that I have no great liking myself + for him; he never seems to look one well in the face, which, I take it, is + always a bad sign. I know no harm of him; but when his apprenticeship is + out, which it will be in another year, I shall let him go his own way, for + I should not care to have him on the premises." + </p> + <p> + "Methinks you are very unjust, David. The lad is quiet and regular in his + ways; he goes twice every Sunday to the Church of St. Alphage, and always + tells me the texts of the sermons." + </p> + <p> + The Captain grunted. + </p> + <p> + "Maybe so, wife; but it is easy to get hold of the text of a sermon + without having heard it. I have my doubts whether he goes as regularly to + St. Alphage's as he says he does. Why could he not go with us to St. + Bennet's?" + </p> + <p> + "He says he likes the administrations of Mr. Catlin better, David. And, in + truth, our parson is not one of the stirring kind." + </p> + <p> + "So much the better," Captain Dave said bluntly. "I like not these men + that thump the pulpit and make as if they were about to jump out head + foremost. However, I don't suppose there is much harm in the lad, and it + may be that his failure to look one in the face is not so much his fault + as that of nature, which endowed him with a villainous squint. Well, let + us turn in; it is past nine o'clock, and high time to be a-bed." + </p> + <p> + Cyril seemed to himself to have entered upon a new life when he stepped + across the threshold of David Dowsett's store. All his cares and anxieties + had dropped from him. For the past two years he had lived the life of an + automaton, starting early to his work, returning in the middle of the day + to his dinner,—to which as often as not he sat down alone,—and + spending his evenings in utter loneliness in the bare garret, where he was + generally in bed long before his father returned. He blamed himself + sometimes during the first fortnight of his stay here for the feeling of + light-heartedness that at times came over him. He had loved his father in + spite of his faults, and should, he told himself, have felt deeply + depressed at his loss; but nature was too strong for him. The pleasant + evenings with Captain Dave and his family were to him delightful; he was + like a traveller who, after a cold and cheerless journey, comes in to the + warmth of a fire, and feels a glow of comfort as the blood circulates + briskly through his veins. Sometimes, when he had no other engagements, he + went out with Nellie Dowsett, whose lively chatter was new and very + amusing to him. Sometimes they went up into Cheapside, and into St. + Paul's, but more often sallied out of the city at Aldgate, and walked into + the fields. On these occasions he carried a stout cane that had been his + father's, for Nellie tried in vain to persuade him to gird on a sword. + </p> + <p> + "You are a gentleman, Cyril," she would argue, "and have a right to carry + one." + </p> + <p> + "I am for the present a sober citizen, Mistress Nellie, and do not wish to + assume to be of any other condition. Those one sees with swords are either + gentlemen of the Court, or common bullies, or maybe highwaymen. After + nightfall it is different; for then many citizens carry their swords, + which indeed are necessary to protect them from the ruffians who, in spite + of the city watch, oftentimes attack quiet passers-by; and if at any time + I escort you to the house of one of your friends, I shall be ready to take + my sword with me. But in the daytime there is no occasion for a weapon, + and, moreover, I am full young to carry one, and this stout cane would, + were it necessary, do me good service, for I learned in France the + exercise that they call the <i>bâton</i>, which differs little from our + English singlestick." + </p> + <p> + While Cyril was received almost as a member of the family by Captain Dave + and his wife, and found himself on excellent terms with John Wilkes, he + saw that he was viewed with dislike by the two apprentices. He was + scarcely surprised at this. Before his coming, Robert Ashford had been in + the habit of escorting his young mistress when she went out, and had no + doubt liked these expeditions, as a change from the measuring out of ropes + and weighing of iron in the store. Then, again, the apprentices did not + join in the conversation at table unless a remark was specially addressed + to them; and as Captain Dave was by no means fond of his elder apprentice, + it was but seldom that he spoke to him. Robert Ashford was between + eighteen and nineteen. He was no taller than Cyril, but it would have been + difficult to judge his age by his face, which had a wizened look; and, as + Nellie said one day, in his absence, he might pass very well for sixty. + </p> + <p> + It was easy enough for Cyril to see that Robert Ashford heartily disliked + him; the covert scowls that he threw across the table at meal-time, and + the way in which he turned his head and feigned to be too busy to notice + him as he passed through the shop, were sufficient indications of + ill-will. The younger apprentice, Tom Frost, was but a boy of fifteen; he + gave Cyril the idea of being a timid lad. He did not appear to share his + comrade's hostility to him, but once or twice, when Cyril came out from + the office after making up the accounts of the day, he fancied that the + boy glanced at him with an expression of anxiety, if not of terror. + </p> + <p> + "If it were not," Cyril said to himself, "that Tom is clearly too nervous + and timid to venture upon an act of dishonesty, I should say that he had + been pilfering something; but I feel sure that he would not attempt such a + thing as that, though I am by no means certain that Robert Ashford, with + his foxy face and cross eyes, would not steal his master's goods or any + one else's did he get the chance. Unless he were caught in the act, he + could do it with impunity, for everything here is carried on in such a + free-and-easy fashion that any amount of goods might be carried off + without their being missed." + </p> + <p> + After thinking the matter over, he said, one afternoon when his employer + came in while he was occupied at the accounts,— + </p> + <p> + "I have not seen anything of a stock-book, Captain Dave. Everything else + is now straight, and balanced up to to-day. Here is the book of goods + sold, the book of goods received, and the ledger with the accounts; but + there is no stock-book such as I find in almost all the other places where + I work." + </p> + <p> + "What do I want with a stock-book?" Captain Dave asked. + </p> + <p> + "You cannot know how you stand without it," Cyril replied. "You know how + much you have paid, and how much you have received during the year; but + unless you have a stock-book you do not know whether the difference + between the receipts and expenditure represents profit, for the stock may + have so fallen in value during the year that you may really have made a + loss while seeming to make a profit." + </p> + <p> + "How can that be?" Captain Dave asked. "I get a fair profit on every + article." + </p> + <p> + "There ought to be a profit, of course," Cyril said; "but sometimes it is + found not to be so. Moreover, if there is a stock-book you can tell at any + time, without the trouble of opening bins and weighing metal, how much + stock you have of each article you sell, and can order your goods + accordingly." + </p> + <p> + "How would you do that?" + </p> + <p> + "It is very simple, Captain Dave," Cyril said. "After taking stock of the + whole of the goods, I should have a ledger in which each article would + have a page or more to itself, and every day I should enter from John + Wilkes's sales-book a list of the goods that have gone out, each under its + own heading. Thus, at any moment, if you were to ask how much chain you + had got in stock I could tell you within a fathom. When did you take stock + last?" + </p> + <p> + "I should say it was about fifteen months since. It was only yesterday + John Wilkes was saying we had better have a thorough overhauling." + </p> + <p> + "Quite time, too, I should think, Captain Dave. I suppose you have got the + account of your last stock-taking, with the date of it?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, I have got that;" and the Captain unlocked his desk and took out + an account-book. "It has been lying there ever since. It took a wonderful + lot of trouble to do, and I had a clerk and two men in for a fortnight, + for of course John and the boys were attending to their usual duties. I + have often wondered since why I should have had all that trouble over a + matter that has never been of the slightest use to me." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I hope you will take it again, sir; it is a trouble, no doubt, but + you will find it a great advantage." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure you think it needful, Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "Most needful, Captain Dave. You will see the advantage of it afterwards." + </p> + <p> + "Well, if you think so, I suppose it must be done," the Captain said, with + a sigh; "but it will be giving you a lot of trouble to keep this new book + of yours." + </p> + <p> + "That is nothing, sir. Now that I have got all the back work up it will be + a simple matter to keep the daily work straight. I shall find ample time + to do it without any need of lengthening my hours." + </p> + <p> + Cyril now set to work in earnest, and telling Mrs. Dowsett he had some + books that he wanted to make up in his room before going to bed, he asked + her to allow him to keep his light burning. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Dowsett consented, but shook her head and said he would assuredly + injure his health if he worked by candle light. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately, John Wilkes had just opened a fresh sales-book, and Cyril + told him that he wished to refer to some particulars in the back books. He + first opened the ledger by inscribing under their different heads the + amount of each description of goods kept in stock at the last + stock-taking, and then entered under their respective heads all the sales + that had been made, while on an opposite page he entered the amount + purchased. It took him a month's hard work, and he finished it on the very + day that the new stock-taking concluded. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III — A THIEF SOMEWHERE + </h2> + <p> + Two days after the conclusion of the stock-taking, Cyril said, after + breakfast was over,— + </p> + <p> + "Would it trouble you, Captain Dave, to give me an hour up here before you + go downstairs to the counting-house. I am free for two hours now, and + there is a matter upon which I should like to speak to you privately." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, lad," the old sailor said, somewhat surprised. "We shall be + quiet enough here, as soon as the table is cleared. My dame and Nellie + will be helping the maid do up the cabins, and will then be sallying out + marketing." + </p> + <p> + When the maid had cleared the table, Cyril went up to his room and + returned with a large ledger and several smaller books. + </p> + <p> + "I have, for the last month, Captain Dave, been making up this stock-book + for my own satisfaction." + </p> + <p> + "Bless me, lad, why have you taken all that trouble? This accounts, then, + for your writing so long at night, for which my dame has been quarrelling + with you!" + </p> + <p> + "It was interesting work," Cyril said quietly. "Now, you see, sir," he + went on, opening the big ledger, "here are the separate accounts under + each head. These pages, you see, are for heavy cables for hawsers; of + these, at the date of the last stock-taking, there were, according to the + book you handed to me, five hundred fathoms in stock. These are the + amounts you have purchased since. Now, upon the other side are all the + sales of this cable entered in the sales-book. Adding them together, and + deducting them from the other side, you will see there should remain in + stock four hundred and fifty fathoms. According to the new stock-taking + there are four hundred and thirty-eight. That is, I take it, as near as + you could expect to get, for, in the measuring out of so many thousand + fathoms of cable during the fifteen months between the two stock-takings, + there may well have been a loss of the twelve fathoms in giving good + measurement." + </p> + <p> + "That is so," Captain Dave said. "I always say to John Wilkes, 'Give good + measurement, John—better a little over than a little under.' Nothing + can be clearer or more satisfactory." + </p> + <p> + Cyril closed the book. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry to say, Captain Dave, all the items are not so satisfactory, + and that I greatly fear that you have been robbed to a considerable + amount." + </p> + <p> + "Robbed, lad!" the Captain said, starting up from his chair. "Who should + rob me? Not John Wilkes, I can be sworn! Not the two apprentices for a + surety, for they never go out during the day, and John keeps a sharp + look-out upon them, and the entrance to the shop is always locked and + barred after work is over, so that none can enter without getting the key, + which, as you know, John always brings up and hands to me as soon as he + has fastened the door! You are mistaken, lad, and although I know that + your intentions are good, you should be careful how you make a charge that + might bring ruin to innocent men. Carelessness there may be; but robbery! + No; assuredly not." + </p> + <p> + "I have not brought the charge without warrant, Captain Dave," Cyril said + gravely, "and if you will bear with me for a few minutes, I think you will + see that there is at least something that wants looking into." + </p> + <p> + "Well, it is only fair after the trouble you have taken, lad, that I + should hear what you have to say; but it will need strong evidence indeed + to make me believe that there has been foul play." + </p> + <p> + "Well, sir," Cyril said, opening the ledger again, "in the first place, I + would point out that in all the heavy articles, such as could not + conveniently be carried away, the tally of the stock-takers corresponds + closely with the figures in this book. In best bower anchors the figures + are absolutely the same and, as you have seen, in heavy cables they + closely correspond. In the large ship's compasses, the ship's boilers, and + ship's galleys, the numbers tally exactly. So it is with all the heavy + articles; the main blocks are correct, and all other heavy gear. This + shows that John Wilkes's book is carefully kept, and it would be strange + indeed if heavy goods had all been properly entered, and light ones + omitted; but yet when we turn to small articles, we find that there is a + great discrepancy between the figures. Here is the account, for instance, + of the half-inch rope. According to my ledger, there should be eighteen + hundred fathoms in stock, whereas the stock-takers found but three hundred + and eighty. In two-inch rope there is a deficiency of two hundred and + thirty fathoms, in one-inch rope of six hundred and twenty. These sizes, + as you know, are always in requisition, and a thief would find ready + purchasers for a coil of any of them. But, as might be expected, it is in + copper that the deficiency is most serious. Of fourteen-inch bolts, + eighty-two are short, of twelve-inch bolts a hundred and thirty, of + eight-inch three hundred and nine; and so on throughout almost all the + copper stores. According to your expenditure and receipt-book, Captain + Dave, you have made, in the last fifteen months, twelve hundred and thirty + pounds; but according to this book your stock is less in value, by two + thousand and thirty-four pounds, than it should have been. You are, + therefore, a poorer man than you were at the beginning of this fifteen + months' trading, by eight hundred and four pounds." + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave sat down in his chair, breathing hard. He took out his + handkerchief and wiped the drops of perspiration from his forehead. + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure of this, boy?" he said hoarsely. "Are you sure that you have + made no mistake in your figures?" + </p> + <p> + "Quite sure," Cyril said firmly. "In all cases in which I have found + deficiencies I have gone through the books three times and compared the + figures, and I am sure that if you put the books into the hands of any + city accountant, he will bear out my figures." + </p> + <p> + For a time Captain Dave sat silent. + </p> + <p> + "Hast any idea," he said at last, "how this has come about?" + </p> + <p> + "I have none," Cyril replied. "That John Wilkes is not concerned in it I + am as sure as you are; and, thinking the matter over, I see not how the + apprentices could have carried off so many articles, some heavy and some + bulky, when they left the shop in the evening, without John Wilkes + noticing them. So sure am I, that my advice would be that you should take + John Wilkes into your confidence, and tell him how matters stand. My only + objection to that is that he is a hasty man, and that I fear he would not + be able to keep his countenance, so that the apprentices would remark that + something was wrong. I am far from saying that they have any hand in it; + it would be a grievous wrong to them to have suspicions when there is no + shadow of evidence against them; but at any rate, if this matter is to be + stopped and the thieves detected, it is most important that they should + have, if they are guilty, no suspicion that they are in any way being + watched, or that these deficiencies have been discovered. If they have had + a hand in the matter they most assuredly had accomplices, for such goods + could not be disposed of by an apprentice to any dealer without his being + sure that they must have been stolen." + </p> + <p> + "You are right there, lad—quite right. Did John Wilkes know that I + had been robbed in this way he would get into a fury, and no words could + restrain him from falling upon the apprentices and beating them till he + got some of the truth out of them." + </p> + <p> + "They may be quite innocent," Cyril said. "It may be that the thieves have + discovered some mode of entry into the store either by opening the + shutters at the back, or by loosening a board, or even by delving up under + the ground. It is surely easier to believe this than that the boys can + have contrived to carry off so large a quantity of goods under John + Wilkes's eye." + </p> + <p> + "That is so, lad. I have never liked Robert Ashford, but God forbid that I + should suspect him of such crime only because his forehead is as wrinkled + as an ape's, and Providence has set his eyes crossways in his head. You + cannot always judge a ship by her upper works; she may be ugly to the eye + and yet have a clear run under water. Still, you can't help going by what + you see. I agree with you that if we tell John Wilkes about this, those + boys will know five minutes afterwards that the ship is on fire; but if we + don't tell him, how are we to get to the bottom of what is going on?" + </p> + <p> + "That is a difficult question, but a few days will not make much + difference, when we know that it has been going on for over a year, and + may, for aught we know, have been going on much longer. The first thing, + Captain Dave, is to send these books to an accountant, for him to go + through them and check my figures." + </p> + <p> + "There is no need for that, lad. I know how careful you are, and you + cannot have gone so far wrong as all this." + </p> + <p> + "No, sir, I am sure that there is no mistake; but, for your own sake as + well as mine, it were well that you should have the signature of an + accountant to the correctness of the books. If you have to lay the matter + before the magistrates, they would not take my testimony as to your + losses, and might even say that you were rash in acting upon the word of a + boy like myself, and you might then be obliged to have the accounts made + up anew, which would cost you more, and cause much delay in the process; + whereas, if you put in your books and say that their correctness is + vouched for by an accountant, no question would arise on it; nor would + there be any delay now, for while the books are being gone into, we can be + trying to get to the bottom of the matter here." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, it shall be done, Master Cyril, as you say. But for the life of + me I don't see how we are to get at the bottom of the ship to find out + where she is leaking!" + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me that the first thing, Captain Dave, is to see to the + warehouse. As we agreed that the apprentices cannot have carried out all + these goods under John Wilkes's eye, and cannot have come down night after + night through the house, the warehouse must have been entered from + without. As I never go in there, it would be best that you should see to + this matter yourself. There are the fastenings of the shutters in the + first place, then the boardings all round. As for me, I will look round + outside. The window of my room looks into the street, but if you will take + me to one of the rooms at the back we can look at the surroundings of the + yard, and may gather some idea whether the goods can have been passed over + into any of the houses abutting on it, or, as is more likely, into the + lane that runs up by its side." + </p> + <p> + The Captain led the way into one of the rooms at the back of the house, + and opening the casement, he and Cyril leaned out. The store occupied + fully half the yard, the rest being occupied by anchors, piles of iron, + ballast, etc. There were two or three score of guns of various sizes piled + on each other. A large store of cannon-ball was ranged in a great pyramid + close by. A wall some ten feet high separated the yard from the lane Cyril + had spoken of. On the left, adjoining the warehouse, was the yard of the + next shop, which belonged to a wool-stapler. Behind were the backs of a + number of small houses crowded in between Tower Street and Leadenhall + Street. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you do not know who lives in those houses, Captain Dave?" + </p> + <p> + "No, indeed. The land is not like the sea. Afloat, when one sees a sail, + one wonders what is her nationality, and whither she is bound, and still + more whether she is an honest trader or a rascally pirate; but here on + land, one scarcely gives a thought as to who may dwell in the houses + round." + </p> + <p> + "I will walk round presently," Cyril said, "and gather, as far as I can, + who they are that live there; but, as I have said, I fancy it is over that + wall and into the alley that your goods have departed. The apprentices' + room is this side of the house, is it not?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; John Wilkes sleeps in the room next to yours, and the door opposite + to his is that of the lads' room." + </p> + <p> + "Do the windows of any of the rooms look into that lane?" + </p> + <p> + "No; it is a blank wall on that side." + </p> + <p> + "There is the clock striking nine," Cyril said, starting. "It is time for + me to be off. Then you will take the books to-day, Captain Dave?" + </p> + <p> + "I will carry them off at once, and when I return will look narrowly into + the fastenings of the two windows and door from the warehouse into the + yard; and will take care to do so when the boys are engaged in the front + shop." + </p> + <p> + When his work was done, Cyril went round to the houses behind the yard, + and he found that they stood in a small court, with three or four trees + growing in the centre, and were evidently inhabited by respectable + citizens. Over the door of one was painted, "Joshua Heddings, Attorney"; + next to him was Gilbert Gushing, who dealt in jewels, silks, and other + precious commodities from the East; next to him was a doctor, and beyond a + dealer in spices. This was enough to assure him that it was not through + such houses as these that the goods had been carried. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had not been back at the mid-day meal, for his work that day lay up + by Holborn Bar, where he had two customers whom he attended with but half + an hour's interval between the visits, and on the days on which he went + there he was accustomed to get something to eat at a tavern hard by. + </p> + <p> + Supper was an unusually quiet meal. Captain Dave now and then asked John + Wilkes a question as to the business matters of the day, but evidently + spoke with an effort. Nellie rattled on as usual; but the burden of + keeping up the conversation lay entirely on her shoulders and those of + Cyril. After the apprentices had left, and John Wilkes had started for his + usual resort, the Captain lit his pipe. Nellie signed to Cyril to come and + seat himself by her in the window that projected out over the street, and + enabled the occupants of the seats at either side to have a view up and + down it. + </p> + <p> + "What have you been doing to father, Cyril?" she asked, in low tones; "he + has been quite unlike himself all day. Generally when he is out of temper + he rates everyone heartily, as if we were a mutinous crew, but to-day he + has gone about scarcely speaking; he hasn't said a cross word to any of + us, but several times when I spoke to him I got no answer, and it is easy + to see that he is terribly put out about something. He was in his usual + spirits at breakfast; then, you know, he was talking with you for an hour, + and it does not take much guessing to see that it must have been something + that passed between you that has put him out. Now what was it?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't see why you should say that, Mistress Nellie. It is true we did + have a talk together, and he examined some fresh books I have been making + out and said that he was mightily pleased with my work. I went away at + nine o'clock, and something may have occurred to upset him between that + and dinner." + </p> + <p> + "All which means that you don't mean to tell me anything about it, Master + Cyril. Well, then, you may consider yourself in my black books + altogether," she said petulantly. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry that you should say so," he said. "If it were true that + anything that I had said to him had ruffled him, it would be for him to + tell you, and not for me." + </p> + <p> + "Methinks I have treated Robert Ashford scurvily, and I shall take him for + my escort to see His Majesty attend service at St. Paul's to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + Cyril smiled. + </p> + <p> + "I think it would be fair to give him a turn, Mistress, and I am glad to + see that you have such a kind thought." + </p> + <p> + Nellie rose indignantly, and taking her work sat down by the side of her + mother. + </p> + <p> + "It is a fine evening," Cyril said to Captain Dave, "and I think I shall + take a walk round. I shall return in an hour." + </p> + <p> + The Captain understood, by a glance Cyril gave him, that he was going out + for some purpose connected with the matter they had in hand. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, lad," he said. "It is not good for you to be sitting moping at + home every evening. I have often wondered before that you did not take a + walk on deck before you turned in. I always used to do so myself." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think there is any moping in it, Captain Dave," Cyril said, with + a laugh. "If you knew how pleasant the evenings have been to me after the + life I lived before, you would not say so." + </p> + <p> + Cyril's only object in going out, however, was to avoid the necessity of + having to talk with Dame Dowsett and Nellie. His thoughts were running on + nothing but the robbery, and he had found it very difficult to talk in his + usual manner, and to answer Nellie's sprightly sallies. It was dark + already. A few oil lamps gave a feeble light here and there. At present he + had formed no plan whatever of detecting the thieves; he was as much + puzzled as the Captain himself as to how the goods could have been + removed. It would be necessary, of course, to watch the apprentices, but + he did not think that anything was likely to come out of this. It was the + warehouse itself that must be watched, in order to discover how the + thieves made an entry. His own idea was that they got over the wall by + means of a rope, and in some way managed to effect an entry into the + warehouse. The apprentices could hardly aid them unless they came down + through the house. + </p> + <p> + If they had managed to get a duplicate key of the door leading from the + bottom of the stairs to the shop, they could, of course, unbar the + windows, and pass things out—that part of the business would be + easy; but he could not believe that they would venture frequently to pass + down through the house. It was an old one, and the stairs creaked. He + himself was a light sleeper; he had got into the way of waking at the + slightest sound, from the long watches he had had for his father's return, + and felt sure that he should have heard them open their door and steal + along the passage past his room, however quietly they might do it. He + walked up the Exchange, then along Cheapside as far as St. Paul's, and + back. Quiet as it was in Thames Street there was no lack of animation + elsewhere. Apprentices were generally allowed to go out for an hour after + supper, the regulation being that they returned to their homes by eight + o'clock. Numbers of these were about. A good many citizens were on their + way home after supping with friends. The city watch, with lanterns, + patrolled the streets, and not infrequently interfered in quarrels which + broke out among the apprentices. Cyril felt more solitary among the knots + of laughing, noisy lads than in the quiet streets, and was glad to be home + again. Captain Dave himself came down to open the door. + </p> + <p> + "I have just sent the women to bed," he said. "The two boys came in five + minutes ago. I thought you would not be long." + </p> + <p> + "I did not go out for anything particular," Cyril said; "but Mistress + Nellie insisted that there was something wrong with you, and that I must + know what it was about, so, feeling indeed indisposed to talk, I thought + it best to go out for a short time." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, yes. Women always want to know, lad. I have been long enough at sea, + you may be sure, to know that when anything is wrong, it is the best thing + to keep it from the passengers as long as you can." + </p> + <p> + "You took the books away this morning, Captain Dave?" Cyril asked as they + sat down. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, lad, I took them to Master Skinner, who bears as good a reputation as + any accountant in the city, and he promised to take them in hand without + loss of time; but I have been able to do nothing here. John, or one or + other of the boys, was always in the warehouse, and I have had no + opportunity of examining the door and shutters closely. When the house is + sound asleep we will take a lantern and go down to look at them. I have + been thinking that we must let John Wilkes into this matter; it is too + much to bear on my mind by myself. He is my first mate, you see, and in + time of danger, the first mate, if he is worth anything, is the man the + captain relies on for help." + </p> + <p> + "By all means tell him, then," Cyril said. "I can keep books, but I have + no experience in matters like this, and shall be very glad to have his + opinion and advice." + </p> + <p> + "There he is—half-past eight. He is as punctual as clockwork." + </p> + <p> + Cyril ran down and let John in. + </p> + <p> + "The Captain wants to speak to you," he said, "before you go up to bed." + </p> + <p> + John, after carefully bolting the door, followed him upstairs. + </p> + <p> + "I have got some bad news for you, John. There, light your pipe again, and + sit down. My good dame has gone off to bed, and we have got the cabin to + ourselves." + </p> + <p> + John touched an imaginary hat and obeyed orders. + </p> + <p> + "The ship has sprung a bad leak, John. This lad here has found it out, and + it is well he did, for unless he had done so we should have had her + foundering under our feet without so much as suspecting anything was going + wrong." + </p> + <p> + The sailor took his newly-lighted pipe from between his lips and stared at + the Captain in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it is hard to believe, mate, but, by the Lord Harry, it is as I say. + There is a pirate about somewhere, and the books show that, since the + stock-taking fifteen months ago, he has eased the craft of her goods to + the tune of two thousand pounds and odd." + </p> + <p> + John Wilkes flung his pipe on to the table with such force that it + shivered into fragments. + </p> + <p> + "Dash my timbers!" he exclaimed. "Who is the man? You only give me the + orders, sir, and I am ready to range alongside and board him." + </p> + <p> + "That is what we have got to find out, John. That the goods have gone is + certain, but how they can have gone beats us altogether." + </p> + <p> + "Do you mean to say, Captain, that they have stolen them out of the place + under my eyes and me know nothing about it? It can't be, sir. There must + be some mistake. I know naught about figures, save enough to put down the + things I sell, but I don't believe as a thing has gone out of the shop + unbeknown to me. That yarn won't do for me, sir," and he looked angrily at + Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "It is true enough, John, for all that. The books have been balanced up. + We knew what was in stock fifteen months ago, and we knew from your + sale-book what has passed out of the shop, and from your entry-book what + has come in. We know now what there is remaining. We find that in bulky + goods, such as cables and anchors and ships' boilers and suchlike, the + accounts tally exactly, but in the small rope, and above all in the + copper, there is a big shrinkage. I will read you the figures of some of + them." + </p> + <p> + John's face grew longer and longer as he heard the totals read. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'm jiggered!" he said, when the list was concluded. "I could have + sworn that the cargo was right according to the manifest. Well, Captain, + all I can say is, if that 'ere list be correct, the best thing you can do + is to send me adrift as a blind fool. I have kept my tallies as correct as + I could, and I thought I had marked down every package that has left the + ship, and here they must have been passing out pretty nigh in cart-loads + under my very eyes, and I knew nothing about it." + </p> + <p> + "I don't blame you, John, more than I blame myself. I am generally about + on deck, and had no more idea that the cargo was being meddled with than + you had. I have been wrong in letting matters go on so long without taking + stock of them and seeing that it was all right; but I never saw the need + for it. This is what comes of taking to a trade you know nothing about; we + have just been like two children, thinking that it was all plain and above + board, and that we had nothing to do but to sell our goods and to fill up + again when the hold got empty. Well, it is of no use talking over that + part of the business. What we have got to do is to find out this leak and + stop it. We are pretty well agreed, Cyril and me, that the things don't go + out of the shop by daylight. The question is, how do they go out at + night?" + </p> + <p> + "I always lock up the hatches according to orders, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I have no doubt you do, John; but maybe the fastenings have been + tampered with. The only way in which we see it can have been managed is + that someone has been in the habit of getting over the wall between the + yard and the lane, and then getting into the warehouse somehow. It must + have been done very often, for if the things had been taken in + considerable quantities you would have noticed that the stock was short + directly the next order came in. Now I propose we light these two lanterns + I have got here, and that we go down and have a look round the hold." + </p> + <p> + Lighting the candles, they went downstairs. The Captain took out the key + and turned the lock. It grated loudly as he did so. + </p> + <p> + "That is a noisy lock," Cyril said. + </p> + <p> + "It wants oiling," John replied. "I have been thinking of doing it for the + last month, but it has always slipped out of my mind." + </p> + <p> + "At any rate," Cyril said, "it is certain that thieves could not have got + into the shop this way, for the noise would have been heard all over the + house." + </p> + <p> + The door between the shop and the warehouse was next unlocked. The + fastenings of the shutters and doors were first examined; there was no + sign of their having been tampered with. Each bolt and hasp was tried, and + the screws examined. Then they went round trying every one of the stout + planks that formed the side; all were firm and in good condition. + </p> + <p> + "It beats me altogether," the Captain said, when they had finished their + examination. "The things cannot walk out of themselves; they have got to + be carried. But how the fellows who carry them get in is more than I can + say. There is nowhere else to look, is there, John?" + </p> + <p> + "Not that I can see, Captain." + </p> + <p> + They went to the door into the shop, and were about to close it, when + Cyril said,— + </p> + <p> + "Some of the things that are gone are generally kept in here, Captain—the + rope up to two inch, for example, and a good deal of canvas, and most of + the smaller copper fittings; so that, whoever the thief is, he must have + been in the habit of coming in here as well as into the warehouse." + </p> + <p> + "That is so, lad. Perhaps they entered from this side." + </p> + <p> + "Will you hold the lantern here, John?" Cyril said. + </p> + <p> + The sailor held the lantern to the lock. + </p> + <p> + "There are no scratches nor signs of tools having been used here," Cyril + said, examining both the lock and the door-post. "Whether the thief came + into the warehouse first, or not, he must have had a key." + </p> + <p> + The Captain nodded. + </p> + <p> + "Thieves generally carry a lot of keys with them, Cyril; and if one does + not quite fit they can file it until it does." + </p> + <p> + The shutters of the shop window and its fastenings, and those of the door, + were as secure as those of the warehouse, and, completely puzzled, the + party went upstairs again. + </p> + <p> + "There must be some way of getting in and out, although we can't find it," + Captain Dave said. "Things can't have gone off by themselves." + </p> + <p> + "It may be, Captain," John Wilkes said, "that some of the planks may be + loose." + </p> + <p> + "But we tried them all, John." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, they seem firm enough, but it may be that one of them is wedged in, + and that when the wedges are taken out it could be pulled off." + </p> + <p> + "I think you would have noticed it, John. If there was anything of that + sort it must be outside. However, we will take a good look round the yard + to-morrow. The warehouse is strongly built, and I don't believe that any + plank could be taken off and put back again, time after time, without + making a noise that would be heard in the house. What do you think, + Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "I agree with you, Captain Dave. How the thieves make an entry I can't + imagine, but I don't believe that it is through the wall of the warehouse. + I am convinced that the robberies must have been very frequent. Had a + large amount been taken at a time, John Wilkes would have been sure to + notice it. Then, again, the thieves would not come so often, and each time + for a comparatively small amount of booty, unless it could be managed + without any serious risk or trouble. However, now that we do know that + they come, we shall have, I should think, very little difficulty in + finding out how it is done." + </p> + <p> + "You may warrant we will keep a sharp look-out," John Wilkes said + savagely. "If the Captain will give me the use of a room at the back of + the house, you may be sure I shan't close an eye till I have got to the + bottom of the matter. I am responsible for the cargo below, and if I had + kept as sharp an eye on the stores as I ought to have done, this would not + have happened. Only let me catch them trying to board, and I will give + them such a reception that I warrant me they will sheer off with a bullet + or two in them. I have got that pair of boarding pistols, and a cutlass, + hung up over my bed." + </p> + <p> + "You must not do that, John," the Captain said. "It isn't a matter of + beating off the pirates by pouring a broadside into them. Maybe you might + cripple them, more likely they would make off, and we want to capture + them. Therefore, I say, let us watch, and find out how they do it. When we + once know that, we can lay our plans for capturing them the next time they + come. I will take watch and watch with you." + </p> + <p> + "Well, if it goes on long, Captain, I won't say no to that; but for + to-night anyhow I will sit up alone." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, let it be so, John. But mind, whatever you see, you keep as + still as a mouse. Just steal to my room in your stockinged feet directly + you see anything moving. Open the door and say, 'Strange sail in sight!' + and I will be over at your window in no time. And now, Cyril, you and I + may as well turn in." + </p> + <p> + The night passed quietly. + </p> + <p> + "You saw nothing, I suppose, John?" the Captain said next morning, after + the apprentices had gone down from breakfast. + </p> + <p> + "Not a thing, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "Now we will go and have a look in the yard. Will you come, Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "I should like to come," Cyril replied, "but, as I have never been out + there before, had you not better make some pretext for me to do so. You + might say, in the hearing of the apprentices, 'We may as well take the + measurements for that new shed we were talking about, and see how much + boarding it will require.' Then you can call to me out from the office to + come and help you to measure." + </p> + <p> + "Then you still think the apprentices are in it?" John Wilkes asked + sharply. + </p> + <p> + "I don't say I think so, John. I have nothing against them. I don't + believe they could come down at night without being heard; I feel sure + they could not get into the shop without that stiff bolt making a noise. + Still, as it is possible they may be concerned in the matter, I think + that, now we have it in good train for getting to the bottom of it, it + would be well to keep the matter altogether to ourselves." + </p> + <p> + "Quite right," Captain Dave said approvingly. "When you suspect treachery, + don't let a soul think that you have got such a matter in your mind, until + you are in a position to take the traitor by the collar and put a pistol + to his ear. That idea of yours is a very good one; I will say something + about the shed to John this morning, and then when you go down to the + counting-house after dinner I will call to you to come out to the yard + with us." + </p> + <p> + After dinner, Captain Dave went with Cyril into the counting-house. + </p> + <p> + "We had an order in this morning for a set of ship's anchors, and John and + I have been in the yard looking them out; we looked over the place pretty + sharply, as you may be sure, but as far as we could see the place is as + solid as when it was built, fifty years ago, by my father." + </p> + <p> + The Captain went out into the store, and ten minutes afterwards re-entered + the shop and shouted,— + </p> + <p> + "Come out here, Cyril, and lend a hand. We are going to take those + measurements. Bring out your ink-horn, and a bit of paper to put them down + as we take them." + </p> + <p> + The yard was some sixty feet long by twenty-five broad, exclusive of the + space occupied by the warehouse. This, as Cyril had observed from the + window above, did not extend as far as the back wall; but on walking round + there with the two men, he found that the distance was greater than he had + expected, and that there was a space of some twenty feet clear. + </p> + <p> + "This is where we are thinking of putting the shed," the Captain said in a + loud voice. + </p> + <p> + "But I see that you have a crane and door into the loft over the warehouse + there," Cyril said, looking up. + </p> + <p> + "We never use that now. When my father first began business, he used to + buy up old junk and such-like stores, and store them up there, but it + didn't pay for the trouble; and, besides, as you see, he wanted every foot + of the yard room, and of course at that time they had to leave a space + clear for the carts to come up from the gate round here, so it was given + up, and the loft is empty now." + </p> + <p> + Cyril looked up at the crane. It was swung round so as to lie flat against + the wooden shutters. The rope was still through the block, and passed into + the loft through a hole cut at the junction of the shutters. + </p> + <p> + They now measured the space between the warehouse and the wall, the + Captain repeating the figures, still in a loud voice; then they discussed + the height of the walls, and after some argument between the Captain and + John Wilkes agreed that this should be the same as the rest of the + building. Still talking on the subject, they returned through the + warehouse, Cyril on the way taking a look at the massive gate that opened + into the lane. In addition to a heavy bar it had a strong hasp, fastened + by a great padlock. The apprentices were busy at work coiling up some rope + when they passed by. + </p> + <p> + "When we have knocked a door through the end there, John," Captain Dave + said, "it will give you a deal more room, and you will be able to get rid + of all these cables and heavy dunnage, and to have matters more ship-shape + here." + </p> + <p> + While they had been taking the measurements, all three had carefully + examined the wall of the warehouse. + </p> + <p> + "There is nothing wrong there, Cyril," his employer said, as, leaving John + Wilkes in the warehouse, they went through the shop into the little + office. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly nothing that I could see, Captain Dave. I did not before know + the loft had any opening to the outside. Of course I have seen the ladder + going up from the warehouse to that trap-door; but as it was closed I + thought no more of it." + </p> + <p> + "I don't suppose anyone has been up there for years, lad. What, are you + thinking that someone might get in through those shutters? Why, they are + twenty feet from the ground, so that you would want a long ladder, and + when you got up there you would find that you could not open the shutters. + I said nobody had been up there, but I did go up myself to have a look + round when I first settled down here, and there is a big bar with a + padlock." + </p> + <p> + Cyril thought no more about it, and after supper it was arranged that he + and Captain Dave should keep watch by turns at the window of the room that + had been now given to John Wilkes, and that the latter should have a night + in his berth, as the Captain expressed it. John Wilkes had made some + opposition, saying that he would be quite willing to take his watch. + </p> + <p> + "You will just obey orders, John," the Captain said. "You have had + thirty-six hours off the reel on duty, and you have got to be at work all + day to-morrow again. You shall take the middle watch to-morrow night if + you like, but one can see with half an eye that you are not fit to be on + the lookout to-night. I doubt if any of us could see as far as the length + of the bowsprit. It is pretty nearly pitch dark; there is not a star to be + seen, and it looked to me, when I turned out before supper, as if we were + going to have a storm." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV — CAPTURED + </h2> + <p> + It was settled that Cyril was to take the first watch, and that the + Captain should relieve him at one o'clock. At nine, the family went to + bed. A quarter of an hour later, Cyril stole noiselessly from his attic + down to John Wilkes's room. The door had been left ajar, and the candle + was still burning. + </p> + <p> + "I put a chair by the window," the sailor said, from his bed, "and left + the light, for you might run foul of something or other in the dark, + though I have left a pretty clear gangway for you." + </p> + <p> + Cyril blew out the candle, and seated himself at the window. For a time he + could see nothing, and told himself that the whole contents of the + warehouse might be carried off without his being any the wiser. + </p> + <p> + "I shall certainly see nothing," he said to himself; "but, at least, I may + hear something." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he turned the fastening of the casement and opened it about + half an inch. As his eyes became accustomed to the darkness, he was able + to make out the line of the roof of the warehouse, which was some three or + four feet below the level of his eyes, and some twenty feet away on his + left. The time passed slowly. He kept himself awake by thinking over the + old days in France, the lessons he had learnt with his friend, Harry + Parton, and the teaching of the old clergyman. + </p> + <p> + He heard the bell of St. Paul's strike ten and eleven. The last stroke had + scarcely ceased to vibrate when he rose to his feet suddenly. He heard, on + his left, a scraping noise. A moment later it ceased, and then was renewed + again. It lasted but a few seconds; then he heard an irregular, shuffling + noise, that seemed to him upon the roof of the warehouse. Pressing his + face to the casement, he suddenly became aware that the straight line of + the ridge was broken by something moving along it, and a moment later he + made out a second object, just behind the first. Moving with the greatest + care, he made his way out of the room, half closed the door behind him, + crossed the passage, and pushed at a door opposite. + </p> + <p> + "Captain Dave," he said, in a low voice, "get up at once, and please don't + make a noise." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, lad." + </p> + <p> + There was a movement from the bed, and a moment later the Captain stood + beside him. + </p> + <p> + "What is it, lad?" he whispered. + </p> + <p> + "There are two figures moving along on the ridge of the roof of the + warehouse. I think it is the apprentices. I heard a slight noise, as if + they were letting themselves down from their window by a rope. It is just + over that roof, you know." + </p> + <p> + There was a rustling sound as the Captain slipped his doublet on. + </p> + <p> + "That is so. The young scoundrels! What can they be doing on the roof?" + </p> + <p> + They went to the window behind. Just as they reached it there was a vivid + flash of lightning. It sufficed to show them a figure lying at full length + at the farther end of the roof; then all was dark again, and a second or + two later came a sharp, crashing roar of thunder. + </p> + <p> + "We had better stand well back from the window," Cyril whispered. "Another + flash might show us to anyone looking this way." + </p> + <p> + "What does it mean, lad? What on earth is that boy doing there? I could + not see which it was." + </p> + <p> + "I think it is Ashford," Cyril said. "The figure in front seemed the + smaller of the two." + </p> + <p> + "But where on earth can Tom have got to?" + </p> + <p> + "I should fancy, sir, that Robert has lowered him so that he can get his + feet on the crane and swing it outwards; then he might sit down on it and + swing himself by the rope into the loft if the doors are not fastened + inside. Robert, being taller, would have no difficulty in lowering himself—There!" + he broke off, as another flash of lightning lit up the sky. "He has gone, + now; there is no one on the roof." + </p> + <p> + John Wilkes was by this time standing beside them, having started up at + the first flash of lightning. + </p> + <p> + "Do you go up, John, into their room," the Captain said. "I think there + can be no doubt that these fellows on the roof are Ashford and Frost, but + it is as well to be able to swear to it." + </p> + <p> + The foreman returned in a minute or two. + </p> + <p> + "The room is empty, Captain; the window is open, and there is a rope + hanging down from it. Shall I cast it adrift?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not, John. We do not mean to take them tonight, and they must + be allowed to go back to their beds without a suspicion that they have + been watched. I hope and trust that it is not so bad as it looks, and that + the boys have only broken out from devilry. You know, boys will do things + of that sort just because it is forbidden." + </p> + <p> + "There must be more than that," John Wilkes said. "If it had been just + after they went to their rooms, it might be that they went to some tavern + or other low resort, but the town is all asleep now." + </p> + <p> + They again went close to the window, pushed the casement a little more + open, and stood listening there. In two or three minutes there was a very + slight sound heard. + </p> + <p> + "They are unbolting the door into the yard," John Wilkes whispered. "I + would give a month's pay to be behind them with a rope's end." + </p> + <p> + Half a minute later there was a sudden gleam of light below, and they + could see the door open. The light disappeared again, but they heard + footsteps; then they saw the light thrown on the fastening to the outer + gate, and could make out that two figures below were applying a key to the + padlock. This was taken off and laid down; then the heavy wooden bar was + lifted, and also laid on the ground. The gate opened as if pushed from the + other side. The two figures went out; the sound of a low murmur of + conversation could be heard; then they returned, the gate was closed and + fastened again, they entered the warehouse, the light disappeared, and the + door was closed. + </p> + <p> + "That's how the things went, John." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir," the foreman growled. + </p> + <p> + "As they were undoing the gate, the light fell on a coil of rope they had + set down there, and a bag which I guess had copper of some kind in it. + They have done us cleverly, the young villains! There was not noise enough + to wake a cat. They must have had every bolt and hinge well oiled." + </p> + <p> + "We had better close the casement now, sir, for as they come back along + the ridge they will be facing it, and if a flash of lightning came they + would see that it was half open, and even if they did not catch sight of + our faces they would think it suspicious that the window should be open, + and it might put them on their guard." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; and we may as well turn in at once, John. Like enough when they get + back they will listen for a bit at their door, so as to make sure that + everything is quiet before they turn in. There is nothing more to see now. + Of course they will get in as they got out. You had better turn in as you + are, Cyril; they may listen at your door." + </p> + <p> + Cyril at once went up to his room, closed the door, placed a chair against + it, and then lay down on his bed. He listened intently, and four or five + minutes later thought that he heard a door open; but he could not be sure, + for just at that moment heavy drops began to patter down upon the tiles. + The noise rose louder and louder until he could scarce have heard himself + speak. Then there was a bright flash and the deep rumble of the thunder + mingled with the sharp rattle of the raindrops overhead. He listened for a + time to the storm, and then dropped off to sleep. + </p> + <p> + Things went on as usual at breakfast the next morning. During the meal, + Captain Dave gave the foreman several instructions as to the morning's + work. + </p> + <p> + "I am going on board the <i>Royalist</i>," he said. "John Browning wants + me to overhaul all the gear, and see what will do for another voyage or + two, and what must be new. His skipper asked for new running rigging all + over, but he thinks that there can't be any occasion for its all being + renewed. I don't expect I shall be in till dinner-time, so anyone that + wants to see me must come again in the afternoon." + </p> + <p> + Ten minutes later, Cyril went out, on his way to his work. Captain Dave + was standing a few doors away. + </p> + <p> + "Before I go on board the brig, lad, I am going up to the Chief + Constable's to arrange about this business. I want to get four men of the + watch. Of course, it may be some nights before this is tried again, so I + shall have the men stowed away in the kitchen. Then we must keep watch, + and as soon as we see those young villains on the roof, we will let the + men out at the front door. Two will post themselves this end of the lane, + and two go round into Leadenhall Street and station themselves at the + other end. When the boys go out after supper we will unlock the door at + the bottom of the stairs into the shop, and the door into the warehouse. + Then we will steal down into the shop and listen there until we hear them + open the door into the yard, and then go into the warehouse and be ready + to make a rush out as soon as they get the gate open. John will have his + boatswain's whistle ready, and will give the signal. That will bring the + watch up, so they will be caught in a trap." + </p> + <p> + "I should think that would be a very good plan, Captain Dave, though I + wish that it could have been done without Tom Frost being taken. He is a + timid sort of boy, and I have no doubt that he has been entirely under the + thumb of Robert." + </p> + <p> + "Well, if he has he will get off lightly," the Captain said. "Even if a + boy is a timid boy, he knows what will be the consequences if he is caught + robbing his master. Cowardice is no excuse for crime, lad. The boys have + always been well treated, and though I dare say Ashford is the worst of + the two, if the other had been honest he would not have seen him robbing + me without letting me know." + </p> + <p> + For six nights watch was kept without success. Every evening, when the + family and apprentices had retired to rest, John Wilkes went quietly + downstairs and admitted the four constables, letting them out in the + morning before anyone was astir. Mrs. Dowsett had been taken into her + husband's confidence so far as to know that he had discovered he had been + robbed, and was keeping a watch for the thieves. She was not told that the + apprentices were concerned in the matter, for Captain Dave felt sure that, + however much she might try to conceal it, Robert Ashford would perceive, + by her looks, that something was wrong. + </p> + <p> + Nellie was told a day or two later, for, although ignorant of her father's + nightly watchings, she was conscious from his manner, and that of her + mother, that something was amiss, and was so persistent in her inquiries, + that the Captain consented to her mother telling her that he had a + suspicion he was being robbed, and warning her that it was essential that + the subject must not be in any way alluded to. + </p> + <p> + "Your father is worrying over it a good deal, Nellie, and it is better + that he should not perceive that you are aware of it. Just let things go + on as they were." + </p> + <p> + "Is the loss serious, mother?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; he thinks that a good deal of money has gone. I don't think he minds + that so much as the fact that, so far, he doesn't know who the people most + concerned in it may be. He has some sort of suspicion in one quarter, but + has no clue whatever to the men most to blame." + </p> + <p> + "Does Cyril know anything about it?" Nellie asked suddenly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, he knows, my dear; indeed, it was owing to his cleverness that your + father first came to have suspicions." + </p> + <p> + "Oh! that explains it," Nellie said. "He had been talking to father, and I + asked what it was about and he would not tell me, and I have been very + angry with him ever since." + </p> + <p> + "I have noticed that you have been behaving very foolishly," Mrs. Dowsett + said quietly, "and that for the last week you have been taking Robert with + you as an escort when you went out of an evening. I suppose you did that + to annoy Cyril, but I don't think that he minded much." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think he did, mother," Nellie agreed, with a laugh which betrayed + a certain amount of irritation. "I saw that he smiled, two or three + evenings back, when I told Robert at supper that I wanted him to go out + with me, and I was rarely angry, I can tell you." + </p> + <p> + Cyril had indeed troubled himself in no way about Nellie's coolness; but + when she had so pointedly asked Robert to go with her, he had been amused + at the thought of how greatly she would be mortified, when Robert was + haled up to the Guildhall for robbing her father, at the thought that he + had been accompanying her as an escort. + </p> + <p> + "I rather hope this will be our last watch, Captain Dave," he said, on the + seventh evening. + </p> + <p> + "Why do you hope so specially to-night, lad?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course I have been hoping so every night. But I think it is likely + that the men who take the goods come regularly once a week; for in that + case there would be no occasion for them to meet at other times to arrange + on what night they should be in the lane." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, that is like enough, Cyril; and the hour will probably be the same, + too. John and I will share your watch to-night, so as to be ready to get + the men off without loss of time." + </p> + <p> + Cyril had always taken the first watch, which was from half-past nine till + twelve. The Captain and Wilkes had taken the other watches by turns. + </p> + <p> + As before, just as the bell finished striking eleven, the three watchers + again heard through the slightly open casement the scraping noise on the + left. It had been agreed that they should not move, lest the sound should + be heard outside. Each grasped the stout cudgel he held in his hand, and + gazed at the roof of the warehouse, which could now be plainly seen, for + the moon was half full and the sky was clear. As before, the two figures + went along, and this time they could clearly recognise them. They were + both sitting astride of the ridge tiles, and moved themselves along by + means of their hands. They waited until they saw one after the other + disappear at the end of the roof, and then John Wilkes quietly stole + downstairs. The four constables had been warned to be specially wakeful. + </p> + <p> + "They are at it again to-night," John said to them, as he entered. "Now, + do you two who go round into Leadenhall Street start at once, but don't + take your post at the end of the lane for another five or six minutes. The + thieves outside may not have come up at present. As you go out, leave the + door ajar; in five minutes you others should stand ready. Don't go to the + corner, but wait in the doorway below until you hear the whistle. They + will be only fifteen or twenty yards up the lane, and would see you if you + took up your station at the corner; but the moment you hear the whistle, + rush out and have at them. We shall be there before you will." + </p> + <p> + John went down with the last two men, entered the shop, and stood there + waiting until he should be joined by his master. The latter and Cyril + remained at the window until they saw the door of the warehouse open, and + then hurried downstairs. Both were in their stockinged feet, so that their + movements should be noiseless. + </p> + <p> + "Come on, John; they are in the yard," the Captain whispered; and they + entered the warehouse and went noiselessly on, until they stood at the + door. The process of unbarring the gate was nearly accomplished. As it + swung open, John Wilkes put his whistle to his lips and blew a loud, + shrill call, and the three rushed forward. There was a shout of alarm, a + fierce imprecation, and three of the four figures at the gate sprang at + them. Scarce a blow had been struck when the two constables ran up and + joined in the fray. Two men fought stoutly, but were soon overpowered. + Robert Ashford, knife in hand, had attacked John Wilkes with fury, and + would have stabbed him, as his attention was engaged upon one of the men + outside, had not Cyril brought his cudgel down sharply on his knuckles, + when, with a yell of pain, he dropped the knife and fled up the lane. He + had gone but a short distance, however, when he fell into the hands of the + two constables, who were running towards him. One of them promptly knocked + him down with his cudgel, and then proceeded to bind his hands behind him, + while the other ran on to join in the fray. It was over before he got + there, and his comrades were engaged in binding the two robbers. Tom Frost + had taken no part in the fight. He stood looking on, paralysed with + terror, and when the two men were overpowered he fell on his knees + beseeching his master to have mercy on him. + </p> + <p> + "It is too late, Tom," the Captain said. "You have been robbing me for + months, and now you have been caught in the act you will have to take your + share in the punishment. You are a prisoner of the constables here, and + not of mine, and even if I were willing to let you go, they would have + their say in the matter. Still, if you make a clean breast of what you + know about it, I will do all I can to get you off lightly; and seeing that + you are but a boy, and have been, perhaps, led into this, they will not be + disposed to be hard on you. Pick up that lantern and bring it here, John; + let us see what plunder, they were making off with." + </p> + <p> + There was no rope this time, but a bag containing some fifty pounds' + weight of brass and copper fittings. One of the constables took possession + of this. + </p> + <p> + "You had better come along with us to the Bridewell, Master Dowsett, to + sign the charge sheet, though I don't know whether it is altogether + needful, seeing that we have caught them in the act; and you will all + three have to be at the Court to-morrow at ten o'clock." + </p> + <p> + "I will go with you," the Captain said; "but I will first slip in and put + my shoes on; I brought them down in my hand and shall be ready in a + minute. You may as well lock up this gate again, John. I will go out + through the front door and join them in the lane." As he went into the + house, John Wilkes closed the gate and put up the bar, then took up the + lantern and said to Cyril,— + </p> + <p> + "Well, Master Cyril, this has been a good night's work, and mighty + thankful I am that we have caught the pirates. It was a good day for us + all when you came to the Captain, or they might have gone on robbing him + till the time came that there was nothing more to rob; and I should never + have held up my head again, for though the Captain would never believe + that I had had a hand in bringing him to ruin, other people would not have + thought so, and I might never have got a chance of proving my innocence. + Now we will just go to the end of the yard and see if they did manage to + get into the warehouse by means of that crane, as you thought they did." + </p> + <p> + They found that the crane had been swung out just far enough to afford a + foot-hold to those lowering themselves on to it from the roof. The door of + the loft stood open. + </p> + <p> + "Just as you said. You could not have been righter, not if you had seen + them at it. And now I reckon we may as well lock up the place again, and + turn in. The Captain has got the key of the front door, and we will leave + the lantern burning at the bottom of the stairs." + </p> + <p> + Cyril got up as soon as he heard a movement in the house, and went down to + the shop, which had been already opened by John Wilkes. + </p> + <p> + "It seems quiet here, without the apprentices, John. Is there any way in + which I can help?" + </p> + <p> + "No, thank you, sir. We shan't be moving the goods about till after + breakfast, and then, no doubt, the Captain will get an extra man in to + help me. I reckon he will have to get a neighbour in to give an eye to the + place while we are all away at the Court." + </p> + <p> + "I see there is the rope still hanging from their window," Cyril said, as + he went out into the yard. + </p> + <p> + "I thought it best to leave it there," John Wilkes replied, "and I ain't + been up into the loft either. It is best to leave matters just as they + were. Like enough, they will send an officer down from the Court to look + at them." + </p> + <p> + When the family assembled at breakfast, Mrs. Dowsett was looking very + grave. The Captain, on the other hand, was in capital spirits. Nellie, as + usual, was somewhat late. + </p> + <p> + "Where is everybody?" she asked in surprise, seeing that Cyril alone was + in his place with her father and mother. + </p> + <p> + "John Wilkes is downstairs, looking after the shop, and will come up and + have his breakfast when we have done," her father replied. + </p> + <p> + "Are both the apprentices out, then?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "The apprentices are in limbo," the Captain said grimly. + </p> + <p> + "In limbo, father! What does that mean?" + </p> + <p> + "It means that they are in gaol, my dear." + </p> + <p> + Nellie put down the knife and fork that she had just taken up. + </p> + <p> + "Are you joking, father?" + </p> + <p> + "Very far from it, my dear; it is no joke to any of us—certainly not + to me, and not to Robert Ashford, or Tom Frost. They have been robbing me + for the last year, and, for aught I know, before that. If it had not been + for Master Cyril it would not have been very long before I should have had + to put my shutters up." + </p> + <p> + "But how could they rob you, father?" + </p> + <p> + "By stealing my goods, and selling them, Nellie. The way they did it was + to lower themselves by a rope from their window on to the roof of the + warehouse, and to get down at the other end on to the crane, and then into + the loft. Then they went down and took what they had a fancy to, undid the + door, and went into the yard, and then handed over their booty to the + fellows waiting at the gate for it. Last night we caught them at it, after + having been on the watch for ten days." + </p> + <p> + "That is what I heard last night, then," she said. "I was woke by a loud + whistle, and then I heard a sound of quarrelling and fighting in the lane. + I thought it was some roysterers going home late. Oh, father, it is + dreadful to think of! And what will they do to them?" + </p> + <p> + "It is a hanging matter," the Captain said; "it is not only theft, but + mutiny. No doubt the judges will take a lenient view of Tom Frost's case, + both on the ground of his youth, and because, no doubt, he was influenced + by Ashford; but I would not give much for Robert's chances. No doubt it + will be a blow to you, Nellie, for you seem to have taken to him mightily + of late." + </p> + <p> + Nellie was about to give an emphatic contradiction, but as she remembered + how pointedly she had asked for his escort during the last few days, she + flushed up, and was silent. + </p> + <p> + "It is terrible to think of," she said, after a pause. "I suppose this is + what you and Cyril were consulting about, father. I have to ask your + pardon, Master Cyril, for my rudeness to you; but of course I did not + think it was anything of consequence, or that you could not have told me + if you had wished to do so." + </p> + <p> + "You need not beg my pardon, Mistress Nellie. No doubt you thought it + churlish on my part to refuse to gratify your curiosity, and I am not + surprised that you took offence. I knew that when you learned how + important it was to keep silence over the matter, that you would acquit me + of the intention of making a mystery about nothing." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you knew, mother?" Nellie asked. + </p> + <p> + "I knew that your father believed that he was being robbed, Nellie, and + that he was keeping watch for some hours every night, but I did not know + that he suspected the apprentices. I am glad that we did not, for + assuredly we should have found it very hard to school our faces so that + they should not guess that aught was wrong." + </p> + <p> + "That was why we said nothing about it, Nellie. It has been as much as I + have been able to do to sit at table, and talk in the shop as usual, with + boys I knew were robbing me; and I know honest John Wilkes must have felt + it still more. But till a week ago we would not believe that they had a + hand in the matter. It is seven nights since Cyril caught them creeping + along the roof, and called me to the window in John Wilkes's room, whence + he was watching the yard, not thinking the enemy was in the house." + </p> + <p> + "And how did you come to suspect that robbery was going on, Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "Simply because, on making up the books, I found there was a great + deficiency in the stores." + </p> + <p> + "That is what he was doing when he was sitting up at night, after you were + in bed, Miss Nellie," her father said. "You may thank your stars that he + took a berth in this ship, for the scoundrels would have foundered her to + a certainty, if he had not done so. I tell you, child, he has saved this + craft from going to the bottom. I have not said much to him about it, but + he knows that I don't feel it any the less." + </p> + <p> + "And who were the other men who were taken, father?" + </p> + <p> + "That I can't tell you, Nellie. I went to the Bridewell with them, and as + soon as I saw them safely lodged there I came home. They will be had up + before the Lord Mayor this morning, and then I dare say I shall know all + about them. Now I must go and take my watch below, and let John Wilkes + come off duty." + </p> + <p> + "Why, John, what is the matter?" Mrs. Dowsett said, when the foreman + entered. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing worth speaking of, Mistress. I got a clip over the eye from one + of the pirates we were capturing. The thing mattered nothing, one way or + the other, but it might have cost me my life, because, for a moment, it + pretty well dazed me. That young villain, Bob, was just coming at me with + his knife, and I reckon it would have gone hard with me if Master Cyril + here hadn't, just in the nick of time, brought his stick down on Robert's + knuckles, and that so sharply that the fellow dropped his knife with a + yell, and took to his heels, only to fall into the hands of two of the + watch coming from the other end of the lane. You did me a good turn, lad, + and if ever I get the chance of ranging up alongside of you in a fray, you + may trust me to return it." + </p> + <p> + He held out his hand to Cyril, and gave a warm grip to the hand the latter + laid in it. + </p> + <p> + "It is a rum start, Mistress," John went on, as he sat down to his meal, + "that two old hands like the Captain and I were sailing on, not dreaming + of hidden rocks or sand-banks, when this lad, who I used to look upon as a + young cockerel who was rather above his position, should come forward and + have saved us all from shipwreck." + </p> + <p> + "It is indeed, John," his mistress said earnestly, "and I thank God indeed + that He put the thought into the minds of Captain Dave and myself to ask + him to take up his abode with us. It seemed to us then that we were doing + a little kindness that would cost us nothing, whereas it has turned out + the saving of us." + </p> + <p> + "Dear, dear!" Nellie, who had been sitting with a frown on her pretty + face, said pettishly. "What a talk there will be about it all, and how + Jane Greenwood and Martha Stebbings and the rest of them will laugh at me! + They used to say they wondered how I could go about with such an ugly + wretch behind me, and of course I spoke up for him and said that he was an + honest knave and faithful; and now it turns out that he is a villain and a + robber. I shall never hear the last of him." + </p> + <p> + "You will get over that, Nellie," her mother said severely. "It would be + much better if, instead of thinking of such trifles, you would consider + how sad a thing it is that two lads should lose their character, and + perhaps their lives, simply for their greed of other people's goods. I + could cry when I think of it. I know that Robert Ashford has neither + father nor mother to grieve about him, for my husband's father took him + out of sheer charity; but Tom's parents are living, and it will be + heart-breaking indeed to them when they hear of their son's misdoings." + </p> + <p> + "I trust that Captain Dave will get him off," Cyril said. "As he is so + young he may turn King's evidence, and I feel sure that he did not go + willingly into the affair. I have noticed many times that he had a + frightened look, as if he had something on his mind. I believe that he + acted under fear of the other." + </p> + <p> + As soon as John Wilkes had finished his breakfast he went with Captain + Dave and Cyril to the Magistrates' Court at the Guildhall. Some other + cases were first heard, and then the apprentices, with the two men who had + been captured in the lane, were brought in and placed in the dock. The men + bore marks that showed they had been engaged in a severe struggle, and + that the watch had used their staves with effect. One was an elderly man + with shaggy grey eyebrows; the other was a very powerfully built fellow, + who seemed, from his attire, to follow the profession of a sailor. Tom + Frost was sobbing bitterly. One of Robert Ashford's hands was bandaged up. + As he was placed in the dock he cast furtive glances round with his shifty + eyes, and as they fell upon Cyril an expression of deadly hate came over + his face. The men of the watch who had captured them first gave their + evidence as to finding them in the act of robbery, and testified to the + desperate resistance they had offered to capture. Captain Dave then + entered the witness-box, and swore first to the goods that were found on + them being his property, and then related how, it having come to his + knowledge that he was being robbed, he had set a watch, and had, eight + days previously, seen his two apprentices getting along the roof, and how + they had come out from the warehouse door, had opened the outer gate, and + had handed over some goods they had brought out to persons unknown waiting + to receive them. + </p> + <p> + "Why did you not stop them in their commission of the theft?" the Alderman + in the Chair asked. + </p> + <p> + "Because, sir, had I done so, the men I considered to be the chief + criminals, and who had doubtless tempted my apprentices to rob me, would + then have made off. Therefore, I thought it better to wait until I could + lay hands on them also, and so got four men of the watch to remain in the + house at night." + </p> + <p> + Then he went on to relate how, after watching seven nights, he had again + seen the apprentices make their way along the roof, and how they and the + receivers of their booty were taken by the watch, aided by himself, his + foreman, and Master Cyril Shenstone, who was dwelling in his house. + </p> + <p> + After John Wilkes had given his evidence, Cyril went into the box and + related how, being engaged by Captain David Dowsett to make up his books, + he found, upon stock being taken, that there was a deficiency to the + amount of many hundreds of pounds in certain stores, notably such as were + valuable without being bulky. + </p> + <p> + "Is anything known as to the prisoners?" the magistrate asked the officer + of the city watch in charge of the case. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing is known of the two boys, your honour; but the men are well + known. The elder, who gave the name of Peter Johnson, is one Joseph + Marner; he keeps a marine shop close to the Tower. For a long time he has + been suspected of being a receiver of stolen goods, but we have never been + able to lay finger on him before. The other man has, for the last year, + acted as his assistant in the shop; he answers closely to the description + of a man, Ephraim Fowler, who has long been wanted. This man was a seaman + in a brig trading to Yarmouth. After an altercation with the captain he + stabbed him, and then slew the mate who was coming to his assistance; then + with threats he compelled the other two men on board to let him take the + boat. When they were off Brightlingsea he rowed away, and has not been + heard of since. If you will remand them, before he comes up again I hope + to find the men who were on board, and see if they identify him. We are in + possession of Joseph Marner's shop, and have found large quantities of + goods that we have reason to believe are the proceeds of these and other + robberies." + </p> + <p> + After the prisoners had left the dock, Captain Dave went up to the + officer. + </p> + <p> + "I believe," he said, "that the boy has not voluntarily taken part in + these robberies, but has been led away, or perhaps obliged by threats to + take part in them; he may be able to give you some assistance, for maybe + these men are not the only persons to whom the stolen goods have been + sold, and he may be able to put you on the track of other receivers." + </p> + <p> + "The matter is out of my hands now," the officer said, "but I will + represent what you say in the proper quarter; and now you had better come + round with me; you may be able to pick out some of your property. We only + made a seizure of the place an hour ago. I had all the men who came in on + duty this morning to take a look at the prisoners. Fortunately two or + three of them recognised Marner, and you may guess we lost no time in + getting a search warrant and going down to his place. It is the most + important capture we have made for some time, and may lead to the + discovery of other robberies that have been puzzling us for months past. + There is a gang known as the Black Gang, but we have never been able to + lay hands on any of their leaders, and such fellows as have been captured + have refused to say a word, and have denied all knowledge of it. There + have been a number of robberies of a mysterious kind, none of which have + we been able to trace, and they have been put down to the same gang. The + Chief Constable is waiting for me there, and we shall make a thorough + search of the premises, and it is like enough we shall come across some + clue of importance. At any rate, if we can find some of the articles + stolen in the robberies I am speaking of, it will be a strong proof that + Marner is one of the chiefs of the gang, and that may lead to further + discoveries." + </p> + <p> + "You had better come with us, John," Captain Dave said. "You know our + goods better than I do myself. Will you come, Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "I should be of no use in identifying the goods, sir, and I am due in half + an hour at one of my shops." + </p> + <p> + The search was an exhaustive one. There was no appearance of an + underground cellar, but on some of the boards of the shop being taken up, + it was found that there was a large one extending over the whole house. + This contained an immense variety of goods. In one corner was a pile of + copper bolts that Captain Dave and John were able to claim at once, as + they bore the brand of the maker from whom they obtained their stock. + There were boxes of copper and brass ship and house fittings, and a very + large quantity of rope, principally of the sizes in which the stock had + been found deficient; but to these Captain Dave was unable to swear. In + addition to these articles the cellar contained a number of chests, all of + which were found to be filled with miscellaneous articles of wearing + apparel—rolls of silk, velvet, cloth, and other materials—curtains, + watches, clocks, ornaments of all kinds, and a considerable amount of + plate. As among these were many articles which answered to the + descriptions given of goods that had been stolen from country houses, the + whole were impounded by the Chief Constable, and carried away in carts. + The upper part of the house was carefully searched, the walls tapped, + wainscotting pulled down, and the floors carefully examined. Several + hiding-places were found, but nothing of any importance discovered in + them. + </p> + <p> + "I should advise you," the Chief Constable said to Captain Dave, "to put + in a claim for every article corresponding with those you have lost. Of + course, if anyone else comes forward and also puts in a claim, the matter + will have to be gone into, and if neither of you can absolutely swear to + the things, I suppose you will have to settle it somehow between you. If + no one else claims them, you will get them all without question, for you + can swear that, to the best of your knowledge and belief, they are yours, + and bring samples of your own goods to show that they exactly correspond + with them. I have no doubt that a good deal of the readily saleable stuff, + such as ropes, brass sheaves for blocks, and things of that sort, will + have been sold, but as it is clear that there is a good deal of your stuff + in the stock found below, I hope your loss will not be very great. There + is no doubt it has been a splendid find for us. It is likely enough that + we shall discover among those boxes goods that have been obtained from a + score of robberies in London, and likely enough in the country. We have + arrested three men we found in the place, and two women, and may get from + some of them information that will enable us to lay hands on some of the + others concerned in these robberies." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V — KIDNAPPED + </h2> + <p> + That afternoon Captain Dave went down to the Bridewell, and had an + interview with Tom Frost, in the presence of the Master of the prison. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Tom, I never expected to have to come to see you in a place like + this." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad I am here, master," the boy said earnestly, with tears in his + eyes. "I don't mind if they hang me; I would rather anything than go on as + I have been doing. I knew it must come, and whenever I heard anyone walk + into the shop I made sure it was a constable. I am ready to tell + everything, master; I know I deserve whatever I shall get, but that won't + hurt me half as much as it has done, having to go on living in the house + with you, and knowing I was helping to rob you all along." + </p> + <p> + "Anything that you say must be taken down," the officer said; "and I can't + promise that it will make any difference in your sentence." + </p> + <p> + "I do not care anything about that; I am going to tell the truth." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, then, I will take down anything you say. But wait a minute." + </p> + <p> + He went to the door of the room and called. + </p> + <p> + "Is the Chief Constable in?" he asked a man who came up. "If he is, ask + him to step here." + </p> + <p> + A minute later the Chief Constable came in. + </p> + <p> + "This prisoner wishes to make a confession, Master Holmes. I thought it + best that you should be here. You can hear what he says then, and it may + help you in your inquiry. Besides, you may think of questions on points he + may not mention; he understands that he is speaking entirely of his own + free will, and that I have given him no promise whatever that his so doing + will alter his sentence, although no doubt it will be taken into + consideration." + </p> + <p> + "Quite so," the constable said. "This is not a case where one prisoner + would be ordinarily permitted to turn King's evidence against the others, + because, as they were caught in the act, no such evidence is necessary. We + know all about how the thing was done, and who did it." + </p> + <p> + "I want to tell how I first came to rob my master," the boy said. "I never + thought of robbing him. When I came up to London, my father said to me, + 'Whatever you do, Tom, be honest. They say there are rogues up in London; + don't you have anything to do with them.' One evening, about a year ago I + went out with Robert, and we went to a shop near the wall at Aldgate. I + had never been there before, but Robert knew the master, who was the old + man that was taken in the lane. Robert said the man was a relation of his + father's, and had been kind to him. We sat down and talked for a time, and + then Robert, who was sitting close to me, moved for something, and put his + hand against my pocket. + </p> + <p> + "'Hullo!' he said; 'what have you got there?' + </p> + <p> + "'Nothing,' I said. + </p> + <p> + "'Oh, haven't you?' and he put his hand in my pocket, and brought out ten + guineas. 'Hullo!' he said; 'where did you get these? You told me yesterday + you had not got a groat. Why, you young villain, you must have been + robbing the till!' + </p> + <p> + "I was so frightened that I could not say anything, except that I did not + know how they came there and I could swear that I had not touched the + till. I was too frightened to think then, but I have since thought that + the guineas were never in my pocket at all, but were in Robert's hand. + </p> + <p> + "'That won't do, boy,' the man said. 'It is clear that you are a thief. I + saw Robert take them from your pocket, and, as an honest man, it is my + duty to take you to your master and tell him what sort of an apprentice he + has. You are young, and you will get off with a whipping at the pillory, + and that will teach you that honesty is the best policy.' + </p> + <p> + "So he got his hat and put it on, and took me by the collar as if to haul + me out into the street. I went down on my knees to beg for mercy, and at + last he said that he would keep the matter quiet if I would swear to do + everything that Robert told me; and I was so frightened that I swore to do + so. + </p> + <p> + "For a bit there wasn't any stealing, but Robert used to take me out over + the roof, and we used to go out together and go to places where there were + two or three men, and they gave us wine. Then Robert proposed that we + should have a look through the warehouse. I did not know what he meant, + but as we went through he filled his pockets with things and told me to + take some too. I said I would not. Then he threatened to raise the alarm, + and said that when Captain Dave came down he should say he heard me get up + to come down by the rope on to the warehouse, and that he had followed me + to see what I was doing, and had found me in the act of taking goods, and + that, as he had before caught me with money stolen from the till, as a + friend of his could testify, he felt that it was his duty to summon you at + once. I know I ought to have refused, and to have let him call you down, + but I was too frightened. At last I agreed to do what he told me, and ever + since then we have been robbing you." + </p> + <p> + "What have you done with the money you got for the things?" the constable + asked. + </p> + <p> + "I had a groat sometimes," the boy said, "but that is all. Robert said + first that I should have a share, but I said I would have nothing to do + with it. I did as he ordered me because I could not help it. Though I have + taken a groat or two sometimes, that is all I have had." + </p> + <p> + "Do you know anything about how much Robert had?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; I never saw him paid any money. I supposed that he had some + because he has said sometimes he should set up a shop for himself, down at + some seaport town, when he was out of his apprenticeship; but I have never + seen him with any money beyond a little silver. I don't know what he used + to do when we had given the things to the men that met us in the lane. I + used always to come straight back to bed, but generally he went out with + them. I used to fasten the gate after him, and he got back over the wall + by a rope. Most times he didn't come in till a little before daybreak." + </p> + <p> + "Were they always the same men that met you in the lane?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir. The master of the shop was very seldom there. The big man has + come for the last three or four months, and there were two other men. They + used to be waiting for us together until the big man came, but since then + one or other of them came with him, except when the master of the shop was + there himself." + </p> + <p> + "Describe them to me." + </p> + <p> + The boy described them as well as he could. + </p> + <p> + "Could you swear to them if you saw them?" + </p> + <p> + "I think so. Of course, sometimes it was moonlight, and I could see their + faces well; and besides, the light of the lantern often fell upon their + faces." + </p> + <p> + The constable nodded. + </p> + <p> + "The descriptions answer exactly," he said to Captain Dave, "to the two + men we found in the shop. The place was evidently the headquarters of a + gang of thieves." + </p> + <p> + "Please, sir," the boy said, "would you have me shut up in another place? + I am afraid of being with the others. They have sworn they will kill me if + I say a word, and when I get back they will ask me who I have seen and + what I have said." + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave took the other two men aside. + </p> + <p> + "Could you not let the boy come home with me?" he said. "I believe his + story is a true one. He has been terrified into helping that rascal, + Robert Ashford. Of course he himself was of no good to them, but they were + obliged to force him into it, as otherwise he would have found out + Robert's absences and might have reported them to me. I will give what + bail you like, and will undertake to produce him whenever he is required." + </p> + <p> + "I could not do that myself," the constable said, "but I will go round to + the Court now with the boy's confession, and I have no doubt the Alderman + will let him go. But let me give you a word of advice: don't let him stir + out of the house after dark. We have no doubt that there is a big gang + concerned in this robbery, and the others of which we found the booty at + the receiver's. They would not know how much this boy could tell about + them, but if he went back to you they would guess that he had peached. If + he went out after dark, the chances would be against his ever coming back + again. No, now I think of it, I am sure you had better let him stay where + he is. The Master will put him apart from the others, and make him + comfortable. You see, at present we have no clue as to the men concerned + in the robberies. You may be sure that they are watching every move on our + part, and if they knew that this boy was out, they might take the alarm + and make off." + </p> + <p> + "Well, if you think so, I will leave him here." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure that it would be the best plan." + </p> + <p> + "You will make him comfortable, Master Holroyd?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; you need not worry about him, Captain Dowsett." + </p> + <p> + They then turned to the boy. + </p> + <p> + "You will be moved away from the others, Tom," Captain Dave said, "and Mr. + Holroyd has promised to make you comfortable." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Captain Dave," the boy burst out, "will you forgive me? I don't mind + being punished, but if you knew how awfully miserable I have been all this + time, knowing that I was robbing you while you were so kind to me, I think + you would forgive me." + </p> + <p> + "I forgive you, Tom," Captain Dave said, putting his hand on the boy's + shoulder. "I hope that this will be a lesson to you, all your life. You + see all this has come upon you because you were a coward. If you had been + a brave lad you would have said, 'Take me to my master.' You might have + been sure that I would have heard your story as well as theirs, and I + don't think I should have decided against you under the circumstances. It + was only your word against Robert's; and his taking you to this man's, and + finding the money in your pocket in so unlikely a way, would certainly + have caused me to have suspicions. There is nothing so bad as cowardice; + it is the father of all faults. A coward is certain to be a liar, for he + will not hesitate to tell any falsehood to shelter him from the + consequences of a fault. In your case, you see, cowardice has made you a + thief; and in some cases it might drive a man to commit a murder. However, + lad, I forgive you freely. You have been weak, and your weakness has made + you a criminal; but it has been against your own will. When all this is + over, I will see what can be done for you. You may live to be an honest + man and a good citizen yet." + </p> + <p> + Two days later Cyril was returning home late in the evening after being + engaged longer than usual in making up a number of accounts for one of his + customers. He had come through Leadenhall Street, and had entered the lane + where the capture of the thieves had been made, when he heard a footstep + behind him. He turned half round to see who was following him, when he + received a tremendous blow on the head which struck him senseless to the + ground. + </p> + <p> + After a time he was dimly conscious that he was being carried along. He + was unable to move; there was something in his mouth that prevented him + from calling out, and his head was muffled in a cloak. He felt too weak + and confused to struggle. A minute later he heard a voice, that sounded + below him, say,— + </p> + <p> + "Have you got him?" + </p> + <p> + "I have got him all right," was the answer of the man who was carrying + him. + </p> + <p> + Then he felt that he was being carried down some stairs. + </p> + <p> + Someone took him, and he was thrown roughly down; then there was a slight + rattling noise, followed by a regular sound. He wondered vaguely what it + was, but as his senses came back it flashed upon him; it was the sound of + oars; he was in a boat. It was some time before he could think why he + should be in a boat. He had doubtless been carried off by some of the + friends of the prisoners', partly, perhaps, to prevent his giving evidence + against them, partly from revenge for the part he had played in the + discovery of the crime. + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes the sound of oars ceased, and there was a bump as the + boat struck against something hard. Then he was lifted up, and someone + took hold of him from above. He was carried a few steps and roughly thrust + in somewhere. There was a sound of something heavy being thrown down above + him, and then for a long time he knew nothing more. + </p> + <p> + When he became conscious again, he was able, as he lay there, to come to a + distinct conclusion as to where he was. He had been kidnapped, carried + off, taken out in a boat to some craft anchored in the river, and was now + in the hold. He felt almost suffocated. The wrap round his head prevented + his breathing freely, the gag in his mouth pressed on his tongue, and gave + him severe pain, while his head ached acutely from the effects of the + blow. + </p> + <p> + The first thing to do was, if possible, to free his hands, so as to + relieve himself from the gag and muffling. An effort or two soon showed + him that he was but loosely bound. Doubtless the man who had attacked him + had not wasted much time in securing his arms, believing that the blow + would be sufficient to keep him quiet until he was safe on board ship. It + was, therefore, without much difficulty that he managed to free one of his + hands, and it was then an easy task to get rid of the rope altogether. The + cloak was pulled from his face, and, feeling for his knife, he cut the + lashings of the gag and removed it from his mouth. He lay quiet for a few + minutes, panting from his exhaustion. Putting up his hand he felt a beam + about a foot above his body. He was, then, in a hold already stored with + cargo. The next thing was to shift his position among the barrels and + bales upon which he was lying, until he found a comparatively level spot. + He was in too great pain to think of sleep; his head throbbed fiercely, + and he suffered from intense thirst. + </p> + <p> + From time to time heavy footsteps passed overhead. Presently he heard a + sudden rattling of blocks, and the flapping of a sail. Then he noticed + that there was a slight change in the level of his position, and knew that + the craft was under way on her voyage down the river. + </p> + <p> + It seemed an immense time to him before he saw a faint gleam of light, and + edging himself along, found himself again under the hatchway, through a + crack in which the light was shining. It was some hours before the hatch + was lifted off, and he saw two men looking down. + </p> + <p> + "Water!" he said. "I am dying of thirst." + </p> + <p> + "Bring a pannikin of water," one of the men said, "but first give us a + hand, and we will have him on deck." + </p> + <p> + Stooping down, they took Cyril by the shoulders and hoisted him out. + </p> + <p> + "He is a decent-looking young chap," the speaker went on. "I would have + seen to him before, if I had known him to be so bad. Those fellows didn't + tell us they had hurt him. Here is the water, young fellow. Can you sit up + to drink it?" + </p> + <p> + Cyril sat up and drank off the contents of the pannikin. + </p> + <p> + "Why, the back of your head is all covered with blood!" the man who had + before spoken said. "You must have had an ugly knock?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't care so much for that," Cyril replied. "It's the gag that hurt + me. My tongue is so much swollen I can hardly speak." + </p> + <p> + "Well, you can stay here on deck if you will give me your promise not to + hail any craft we may pass. If you won't do that I must put you down under + hatches again." + </p> + <p> + "I will promise that willingly," Cyril said; "the more so that I can + scarce speak above a whisper." + </p> + <p> + "Mind, if you as much as wave a hand, or do anything to bring an eye on + us, down you go into the hold again, and when you come up next time it + will be to go overboard. Now just put your head over the rail, and I will + pour a few buckets of water over it. I agreed to get you out of the way, + but I have got no grudge against you, and don't want to do you harm." + </p> + <p> + Getting a bucket with a rope tied to the handle, he dipped it into the + river, and poured half-a-dozen pailfuls over Cyril's head. The lad felt + greatly refreshed, and, sitting down on the deck, was able to look round. + The craft was a coaster of about twenty tons burden. There were three men + on deck besides the man who had spoken to him, and who was evidently the + skipper. Besides these a boy occasionally put up his head from a hatchway + forward. There was a pile of barrels and empty baskets amidship, and the + men presently began to wash down the decks and to tidy up the ropes and + gear lying about. The shore on both sides was flat, and Cyril was + surprised at the width of the river. Behind them was a small town, + standing on higher ground. + </p> + <p> + "What place is that?" he asked a sailor who passed near him. + </p> + <p> + "That is Gravesend." + </p> + <p> + A few minutes afterwards the boy again put his head out of the hatchway + and shouted,— + </p> + <p> + "Breakfast!" + </p> + <p> + "Can you eat anything, youngster?" the skipper asked Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "No, thank you, my head aches too much; and my mouth is so sore I am sure + I could not get anything down." + </p> + <p> + "Well, you had best lie down, then, with your head on that coil of rope; I + allow you did not sleep much last night." + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes Cyril was sound asleep, and when he awoke the sun was + setting. + </p> + <p> + "You have had a good bout of it, lad," the skipper said, as he raised + himself on his elbow and looked round. "How are you feeling now?" + </p> + <p> + "A great deal better," Cyril said, as he rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + "Supper will be ready in a few minutes, and if you can manage to get a bit + down it will do you good." + </p> + <p> + "I will try, anyhow," Cyril said. "I think that I feel hungry." + </p> + <p> + The land was now but a faint line on either hand. A gentle breeze was + blowing from the south-west, and the craft was running along over the + smooth water at the rate of three or four miles an hour. Cyril wondered + where he was being taken to, and what was going to be done with him, but + determined to ask no questions. The skipper was evidently a kind-hearted + man, although he might be engaged in lawless business, but it was as well + to wait until he chose to open the subject. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the boy hailed, the captain led the way to the hatchway. They + descended a short ladder into the fo'castle, which was low, but roomy. + Supper consisted of boiled skate—a fish Cyril had never tasted + before—oaten bread, and beer. His mouth was still sore, but he + managed to make a hearty meal of fish, though he could not manage the hard + bread. One of the men was engaged at the helm, but the other two shared + the meal, all being seated on lockers that ran round the cabin. The fish + were placed on an earthenware dish, each man cutting off slices with his + jack-knife, and using his bread as a platter. Little was said while the + meal went on; but when they went on deck again, the skipper, having put + another man at the tiller, while the man released went forward to get his + supper, said,— + </p> + <p> + "Well, I think you are in luck, lad." + </p> + <p> + Cyril opened his eyes in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "You don't think so?" the man went on. "I don't mean that you are in luck + in being knocked about and carried off, but that you are not floating down + the river at present instead of walking the deck here. I can only suppose + that they thought your body might be picked up, and that it would go all + the harder with the prisoners, if it were proved that you had been put out + of the way. You don't look like an informer either!" + </p> + <p> + "I am not an informer," Cyril said indignantly. "I found that my employer + was being robbed, and I aided him to catch the thieves. I don't call that + informing. That is when a man betrays others engaged in the same work as + himself." + </p> + <p> + "Well, well, it makes no difference to me," the skipper said. "I was + engaged by a man, with whom I do business sometimes, to take a fellow who + had been troublesome out of the way, and to see that he did not come back + again for some time. I bargained that there was to be no foul play; I + don't hold with things of that sort. As to carrying down a bale of goods + sometimes, or taking a few kegs of spirits from a French lugger, I see no + harm in it; but when it comes to cutting throats, I wash my hands of it. I + am sorry now I brought you off, though maybe if I had refused they would + have put a knife into you, and chucked you into the river. However, now + that I have got you I must go through with it. I ain't a man to go back + from my word, and what I says I always sticks to. Still, I am sorry I had + anything to do with the business. You look to me a decent young gentleman, + though your looks and your clothes have not been improved by what you have + gone through. Well, at any rate, I promise you that no harm shall come to + you as long as you are in my hands." + </p> + <p> + "And how long is that likely to be, captain?" + </p> + <p> + "Ah! that is more than I can tell you. I don't want to do you harm, lad, + and more than that, I will prevent other people from doing you harm as + long as you are on board this craft. But more than that I can't say. It is + likely enough I shall have trouble in keeping that promise, and I can't go + a step farther. There is many a man who would have chucked you overboard, + and so have got rid of the trouble altogether, and of the risk of its + being afterwards proved that he had a hand in getting you out of the way." + </p> + <p> + "I feel that, captain," Cyril said, "and I thank you heartily for your + kind treatment of me. I promise you that if at any time I am set ashore + and find my way back to London, I will say no word which can get you into + trouble." + </p> + <p> + "There is Tom coming upon deck. You had better turn in. You have had a + good sleep, but I have no doubt you can do with some more, and a night's + rest will set you up. You take the left-hand locker. The boy sleeps on the + right hand, and we have bunks overhead." + </p> + <p> + Cyril was soon soundly asleep, and did not wake when the others turned in. + He was alone in the cabin when he opened his eyes, but the sun was shining + brightly through the open hatchway. He sprang up and went on deck. The + craft was at anchor. No land could be seen to the south, but to the north + a low shore stretched away three or four miles distant. There was scarcely + a breath of wind. + </p> + <p> + "Well, you have had a good sleep, lad," the captain said. "You had best + dip that bucket overboard and have a wash; you will feel better after it. + Now, boy, slip down and get your fire going; we shall be ready for + breakfast as soon as it is ready for us." + </p> + <p> + Cyril soused his head with the cold water, and felt, as the captain had + said, all the better for it, for the air in the little cabin was close and + stuffy, and he had felt hot and feverish before his wash. + </p> + <p> + "The wind died out, you see," the captain said, "and we had to anchor when + tide turned at two o'clock. There is a dark line behind us, and as soon as + the wind reaches us, we will up anchor. The force of the tide is spent." + </p> + <p> + The wind, however, continued very light, and the vessel did little more + than drift with the tide, and when it turned at two o'clock they had to + drop anchor again close under some high land, on the top of which stood a + lofty tower. + </p> + <p> + "That is a land-mark," the captain said. "There are some bad sands outside + us, and that stands as a mark for vessels coming through." + </p> + <p> + Cyril had enjoyed the quiet passage much. The wound at the back of his + head still smarted, and he had felt disinclined for any exertion. More + than once, in spite of the good allowance of sleep he had had, he dozed + off as he sat on the deck with his back against the bulwark, watching the + shore as they drifted slowly past it, and wondering vaguely, how it would + all end. They had been anchored but half an hour when the captain ordered + the men to the windlass. + </p> + <p> + "There is a breeze coming, lads," he said; "and even if it only lasts for + an hour, it will take us round the head and far enough into the bay to get + into the tide running up the rivers." + </p> + <p> + The breeze, however, when it came, held steadily, and in two hours they + were off Harwich; but on coming opposite the town they turned off up the + Orwell, and anchored, after dark, at a small village some six miles up the + river. + </p> + <p> + "If you will give me your word, lad, that you will not try to escape, and + will not communicate with anyone who may come off from the shore, I will + continue to treat you as a passenger; but if not, I must fasten you up in + the cabin, and keep a watch over you." + </p> + <p> + "I will promise, captain. I should not know where to go if I landed. I + heard you say, 'There is Harwich steeple,' when we first came in sight of + it, but where that is I have no idea, nor how far we are from London. As I + have not a penny in my pocket, I should find it well-nigh impossible to + make my way to town, which may, for aught I know, be a hundred miles away; + for, in truth, I know but little of the geography of England, having been + brought up in France, and not having been out of sight of London since I + came over." + </p> + <p> + Just as he was speaking, the splash of an oar was heard close by. + </p> + <p> + "Up, men," the captain said in a low tone to those in the fo'castle. + "Bring up the cutlasses. Who is that?" he called, hailing the boat. + </p> + <p> + "Merry men all," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + "All right. Come alongside. You saw our signal, then?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, we saw it; but there is an officer with a boat-load of sailors + ashore from the King's ship at Harwich. He is spending the evening with + the revenue captain here, and we had to wait until the two men left in + charge of the boat went up to join their comrades at the tavern. What have + you got for us?" + </p> + <p> + "Six boxes and a lot of dunnage, such as cables, chains, and some small + anchors." + </p> + <p> + "Well, you had better wait for an hour before you take the hatches off. + You will hear the gig with the sailors row past soon. The tide has begun + to run down strong, and I expect the officer won't be long before he + moves. As soon as he has gone we will come out again. We shall take the + goods up half a mile farther. The revenue man on that beat has been paid + to keep his eyes shut, and we shall get them all stored in a hut, a mile + away in the woods, before daybreak. You know the landing-place; there will + be water enough for us to row in there for another two hours." + </p> + <p> + The boat rowed away to the shore, which was not more than a hundred yards + distant. A little later they heard a stir on the strand, then came the + sound of oars, and two minutes later a boat shot past close to them, and + then, bearing away, rowed down the river. + </p> + <p> + "Now, lads," the captain said, "get the hatches off. The wind is coming + more offshore, which is all the better for us, but do not make more noise + than you can help." + </p> + <p> + The hatches were taken off, and the men proceeded to get up a number of + barrels and bales, some sail-cloth being thrown on the deck to deaden the + sound. Lanterns, passed down into the hold, gave them light for their + operations. + </p> + <p> + "This is the lot," one of the sailors said presently. + </p> + <p> + Six large boxes were then passed up and put apart from the others. Then + followed eight or ten coils of rope, a quantity of chain, some kedge + anchors, a number of blocks, five rolls of canvas, and some heavy bags + that, by the sound they made when they were laid down, Cyril judged to + contain metal articles of some sort. Then the other goods were lowered + into the hold and the hatches replaced. The work had scarcely concluded + when the boat again came alongside, this time with four men on board. + Scarcely a word was spoken as the goods were transferred to the boat. + </p> + <p> + "You will be going to-morrow?" one of the men in the boat asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I shall get up to Ipswich on the top of the tide—that is, if I + don't stick fast in this crooked channel. My cargo is all either for + Ipswich or Aldborough. Now let us turn in," as the boatmen made their way + up the river. "We must be under way before daylight, or else we shall not + save the tide down to-morrow evening. I am glad we have got that lot + safely off. I always feel uncomfortable until we get rid of that part of + the cargo. If it wasn't that it paid better than all the rest together I + would not have anything to do with it." + </p> + <p> + Cyril was very glad to lie down on the locker, while the men turned into + their berths overhead. He had not yet fully recovered from the effects of + the blow he had received, but in spite of the aching of his head he was + soon sound asleep. It seemed to him that he had scarcely closed his eyes + when he was roused by the captain's voice,— + </p> + <p> + "Tumble up, lads. The light is beginning to show." + </p> + <p> + Ten minutes later they were under way. The breeze had almost died out, and + after sailing for some two miles in nearly a straight course, the boat was + thrown over, two men got into it, and, fastening a rope to the ketch's + bow, proceeded to tow her along, the captain taking the helm. + </p> + <p> + To Cyril's surprise, they turned off almost at right angles to the course + they had before been following, and made straight for the opposite shore. + They approached it so closely that Cyril expected that in another moment + the craft would take ground, when, at a shout from the captain, the men in + the boat started off parallel with the shore, taking the craft's head + round. For the next three-quarters of an hour they pursued a serpentine + course, the boy standing in the chains and heaving the lead continually. + At last the captain shouted,—"You can come on board now, lads. We + are in the straight channel at last." Twenty minutes later they again + dropped their anchor opposite a town of considerable size. + </p> + <p> + "That is Ipswich, lad," the captain said. "It is as nasty a place to get + into as there is in England, unless you have got the wind due aft." + </p> + <p> + The work of unloading began at once, and was carried on until after dark. + </p> + <p> + "That is the last of them," the captain said, to Cyril's satisfaction. "We + can be off now when the tide turns, and if we hadn't got clear to-night we + might have lost hours, for there is no getting these people on shore to + understand that the loss of a tide means the loss of a day, and that it is + no harder to get up and do your work at one hour than it is at another. I + shall have a clean up, now, and go ashore. I have got your promise, lad, + that you won't try to escape?" + </p> + <p> + Cyril assented. Standing on the deck there, with the river bank but twenty + yards away, it seemed hard that he should not be able to escape. But, as + he told himself, he would not have been standing there if it had not been + for that promise, but would have been lying, tightly bound, down in the + hold. + </p> + <p> + Cyril and the men were asleep when the captain came aboard, the boy alone + remaining up to fetch him off in the boat when he hailed. + </p> + <p> + "There is no wind, captain," Cyril said, as the anchor was got up. + </p> + <p> + "No, lad, I am glad there is not. We can drop down with the tide and the + boat towing us, but if there was a head wind we might have to stop here + till it either dropped or shifted. I have been here three weeks at a + spell. I got some news ashore," he went on, as he took his place at the + helm, while the three men rowed the boat ahead. "A man I sometimes bring + things to told me that he heard there had been an attempt to rescue the + men concerned in that robbery. I heard, before I left London, it was + likely that it would be attempted." + </p> + <p> + There were a lot of people concerned in that affair, one way and another, + and I knew they would move heaven and earth to get them out, for if any of + them peached there would be such a haul as the constables never made in + the city before. Word was passed to the prisoners to be ready, and as they + were being taken from the Guildhall to Newgate there was a sudden rush + made. The constables were not caught napping, and there was a tough fight, + till the citizens ran out of their shops and took part with them, and the + men, who were sailors, watermen, 'longshore-men, and rascals of all sorts, + bolted. + </p> + <p> + "But two of the prisoners were missing. One was, I heard, an apprentice + who was mixed up in the affair, and no one saw him go. They say he must + have stooped down and wriggled away into the crowd. The other was a man + they called Black Dick; he struck down two constables, broke through the + crowd, and got clean away. There is a great hue and cry, but so far + nothing has been heard of them. They will be kept in hiding somewhere till + there is a chance of getting them through the gates or on board a craft + lying in the river. Our men made a mess of it, or they would have got them + all off. I hear that they are all in a fine taking that Marner is safely + lodged in Newgate with the others taken in his house; he knows so much + that if he chose to peach he could hang a score of men. Black Dick could + tell a good deal, but he wasn't in all the secrets, and they say Marner is + really the head of the band and had a finger in pretty nigh every robbery + through the country. All those taken in his place are also in Newgate, and + they say the constables are searching the city like ferrets in a + rabbit-warren, and that several other arrests have been made." + </p> + <p> + "I am not sorry the apprentice got away," Cyril said. "He is a bad fellow, + there is no doubt, and, by the look he gave me, he would do me harm if he + got a chance, but I suppose that is only natural. As to the other man, he + looked to me to be a desperate villain, and he also gave me so evil a look + that, though he was in the dock with a constable on either side of him, I + felt horribly uncomfortable, especially when I heard what sort of man he + was." + </p> + <p> + "What did they say of him?" + </p> + <p> + "They said they believed he was a man named Ephraim Fowler, who had + murdered the skipper and mate of a coaster and then went off in the boat." + </p> + <p> + "Is that the man? Then truly do I regret that he has escaped. I knew both + John Moore, the master, and George Monson, the mate, and many a flagon of + beer we have emptied together. If I had known the fellow's whereabouts, I + would have put the constables on his track. I am heartily sorry now, boy, + that I had a hand in carrying you off, though maybe it is best for you + that it has been so. If I hadn't taken you someone else would, and more + than likely you would not have fared so well as you have done, for some of + them would have saved themselves all further trouble and risk, by chucking + you overboard as soon as they were well out of the Pool." + </p> + <p> + "Can't you put me ashore now, captain?" + </p> + <p> + "No, boy; I have given my word and taken my money, and I am not one to + fail to carry out a bargain because I find that I have made a bad one. + They have trusted me with thousands of pounds' worth of goods, and I have + no reason to complain of their pay, and am not going to turn my back on + them now they have got into trouble; besides, though I would trust you not + to round upon me, I would not trust them. If you were to turn up in London + they would know that I had sold them, and Marner would soon hear of it. + There is a way of getting messages to a man even in prison. Then you may + be sure that, if he said nothing else, he would take good care to let out + that I was the man who used to carry their booty away, sometimes to quiet + places on the coast, and sometimes across to Holland, and the first time I + dropped anchor in the Pool I should find myself seized and thrown into + limbo. No, lad; I must carry out my agreement—which is that I am not + to land you in England, but that I am to take you across to Holland or + elsewhere—the elsewhere meaning that if you fall overboard by the + way there will be no complaints as to the breach of the agreement. That + is, in fact, what they really meant, though they did not actually put it + into words. They said, 'We have a boy who is an informer, and has been the + means of Marner being seized and his place broken up, and there is no + saying that a score of us may not get a rope round our necks. In + consequence, we want him carried away. What you do with him is nothing to + us so long as he don't set foot in England again.' 'Will Holland suit you? + I am going across there,' I said, 'after touching at Ipswich and + Aldborough.' 'It would be much safer for you and everyone else if it + happen that he falls over before he gets there. However, we will call it + Holland.'" + </p> + <p> + "Then if I were to fall overboard," Cyril said, with a smile, "you would + not be breaking your agreement, captain? I might fall overboard to-night, + you know." + </p> + <p> + "I would not advise it, lad. You had much better stay where you are. I + don't say I mightn't anchor off Harwich, and that if you fell overboard + you couldn't manage to swim ashore, but I tell you I would not give + twopence for your life when you got back to London. It is to the interest + of a score of men to keep Marner's mouth shut. They have shown their + willingness to help him as far as they could, by getting you out of the + way, and if you got back they would have your life the first time you + ventured out of doors after dark; they would be afraid Marner would + suppose they had sold him if you were to turn up at his trial, and as like + as not he would round on the whole lot. Besides, I don't think it would be + over safe for me the first time I showed myself in London afterwards, for, + though I never said that I would do it, I have no doubt they reckoned that + I should chuck you overboard, and if you were to make your appearance in + London they would certainly put it down that I had sold them. You keep + yourself quiet, and I will land you in Holland, but not as they would + expect, without a penny or a friend; I will put you into good hands, and + arrange that you shall be sent back again as soon as the trial is over." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you very much, captain. I have no relations in London, and no + friends, except my employer, Captain David Dowsett, and by this time he + will have made up his mind that I am dead, and it won't make much + difference whether I return in four or five days or as many weeks." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI — A NARROW ESCAPE + </h2> + <p> + The <i>Eliza</i>, for this Cyril, after leaving Ipswich, learnt was her + name, unloaded the rest of her cargo at Aldborough, and then sailed across + to Rotterdam. The skipper fulfilled his promise by taking Cyril to the + house of one of the men with whom he did business, and arranging with him + to board the boy until word came that he could safely return to England. + The man was a diamond-cutter, and to him packets of jewellery and gems + that could not be disposed of in England had often been brought over by + the captain. The latter had nothing to do with the pecuniary arrangements, + which were made direct by Marner, and he had only to hand over the packets + and take back sums of money to England. + </p> + <p> + "You understand," the captain said to Cyril, "that I have not said a word + touching the matter for which you are here. I have only told him that it + had been thought it was as well you should be out of England for a time. + Of course, he understood that you were wanted for an affair in which you + had taken part; but it matters not what he thinks. I have paid him for a + month's board for you, and here are three pounds, which will be enough to + pay for your passage back if I myself should not return. If you do not + hear from me, or see the <i>Eliza</i>, within four weeks, there is no + reason why you should not take passage back. The trial will be over by + that time, and as the members of the gang have done their part in + preventing you from appearing, I see not why they should have further + grudge against you." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot thank you too much for your kindness, captain. I trust that when + I get back you will call at Captain Dowsett's store in Tower Street, so + that I may see you and again thank you; I know that the Captain himself + will welcome you heartily when I tell him how kindly you have treated me. + He will be almost as glad as I shall myself to see you. I suppose you + could not take him a message or letter from me now?" + </p> + <p> + "I think not, lad. It would never do for him to be able to say at the + trial that he had learnt you had been kidnapped. They might write over + here to the Dutch authorities about you. There is one thing further. From + what I heard when I landed yesterday, it seems that there is likely to be + war between Holland and England." + </p> + <p> + "I heard a talk of it in London," Cyril said, "but I do not rightly + understand the cause, nor did I inquire much about the matter." + </p> + <p> + "It is something about the colonies, and our taxing their goods, but I + don't rightly understand the quarrel, except that the Dutch think, now + that Blake is gone and our ships for the most part laid up, they may be + able to take their revenge for the lickings we have given them. Should + there be war, as you say you speak French as well as English, I should + think you had best make your way to Dunkirk as a young Frenchman, and from + there you would find no difficulty in crossing to England." + </p> + <p> + "I know Dunkirk well, captain, having indeed lived there all my life. I + should have no difficulty in travelling through Holland as a French boy." + </p> + <p> + "If there is a war," the captain said, "I shall, of course, come here no + more; but it may be that you will see me at Dunkirk. French brandy sells + as well as Dutch Schiedam, and if I cannot get the one I may perhaps get + the other; and there is less danger in coming to Dunkirk and making across + to Harwich than there is in landing from Calais or Nantes on the south + coast, where the revenue men are much more on the alert than they are at + Harwich." + </p> + <p> + "Are you not afraid of getting your boat captured? You said it was your + own." + </p> + <p> + "Not much, lad. I bring over a regular cargo, and the kegs are stowed away + under the floor of the cabin, and I run them at Pin-mill—that is the + place we anchored the night before we got to Ipswich. I have been + overhauled a good many times, but the cargo always looks right, and after + searching it for a bit, they conclude it is all regular. You see, I don't + bring over a great quantity—fifteen or twenty kegs is as much as I + can stow away—and it is a long way safer being content with a small + profit than trying to make a big one." + </p> + <p> + Cyril parted with regret from the captain, whose departure had been + hastened by a report that war might be declared at any moment, in which + case the <i>Eliza</i> might have been detained for a considerable time. He + had, therefore, been working almost night and day to get in his cargo, and + Cyril had remained on board until the last moment. He had seen the diamond + dealer but once, and hoped that he should not meet him often, for he felt + certain that awkward questions would be asked him. This man was in the + habit of having dealings with Marner, and had doubtless understood from + the captain that he was in some way connected with his gang; and were he + to find out the truth he would view him with the reverse of a friendly + eye. He had told him that he was to take his meals with his clerk, and + Cyril hoped, therefore, that he should seldom see him. + </p> + <p> + He wandered about the wharf until it became dark. Then he went in and took + supper with the clerk. As the latter spoke Dutch only, there was no + possibility of conversation. Cyril was thinking of going up to his bed + when there was a ring at the bell. The clerk went to answer it, leaving + the door open as he went out, and Cyril heard a voice ask, in English, if + Herr Schweindorf was in. The clerk said something in Dutch. + </p> + <p> + "The fool does not understand English, Robert," the man said. + </p> + <p> + "Tell him," he said, in a louder voice, to the clerk, "that two persons + from England—England, you understand—who have only just + arrived, want to see him on particular business. There, don't be blocking + up the door; just go and tell your master what I told you." + </p> + <p> + He pushed his way into the passage, and the clerk, seeing that there was + nothing else to do, went upstairs. + </p> + <p> + A minute later he came down again, and made a sign for them to follow him. + As they went up Cyril stole out and looked after them. The fact that they + had come from England, and that one of them was named Robert, and that + they had business with this man, who was in connection with Marner, had + excited his suspicions, but he felt a shiver of fear run through him as he + recognised the figures of Robert Ashford and the man who was called Black + Dick. He remembered the expression of hatred with which they had regarded + him in the Court, and felt that his danger would be great indeed did they + hear that he was in Rotterdam. A moment's thought convinced him that they + would almost certainly learn this at once from his host. The letter would + naturally mention that the captain had left a lad in his charge who was, + as he believed, connected with them. They would denounce him as an enemy + instead of a friend. The diamond merchant would expel him from his house, + terrified at the thought that he possessed information as to his dealings + with this band in England; and once beyond the door he would, in this + strange town, be at the mercy of his enemies. Cyril's first impulse was to + run back into the room, seize his cap, and fly. He waited, however, until + the clerk came down again; then he put his cap carelessly on his head. + </p> + <p> + "I am going for a walk," he said, waving his hand vaguely. + </p> + <p> + The man nodded, went with him to the door, and Cyril heard him put up the + bar after he had gone out. He walked quietly away, for there was no fear + of immediate pursuit. + </p> + <p> + Black Dick had probably brought over some more jewels to dispose of, and + that business would be transacted, before there would be any talk of other + matters. It might be a quarter of an hour before they heard that he was an + inmate of the house; then, when they went downstairs with the dealer, they + would hear that he had gone out for a walk and would await his return, so + that he had two or three hours at least before there would be any search. + </p> + <p> + It was early yet. Some of the boats might be discharging by torchlight. At + any rate, he might hear of a ship starting in the morning. He went down to + the wharf. There was plenty of bustle here; boats were landing fish, and + larger craft were discharging or taking in cargo; but his inability to + speak Dutch prevented his asking questions. He crossed to the other side + of the road. The houses here were principally stores or drinking taverns. + In the window of one was stuck up, "English and French Spoken Here." He + went inside, walked up to the bar, and called for a glass of beer in + English. + </p> + <p> + "You speak English, landlord?" he asked, as the mug was placed before him. + </p> + <p> + The latter nodded. + </p> + <p> + "I want to take passage either to England or to France," he said. "I came + out here but a few days ago, and I hear that there is going to be trouble + between the two countries. It will therefore be of no use my going on to + Amsterdam. I wish to get back again, for I am told that if I delay I may + be too late. I cannot speak Dutch, and therefore cannot inquire if any + boat will be sailing in the morning for England or Dunkirk. I have + acquaintances in Dunkirk, and speak French, so it makes no difference to + me whether I go there or to England." + </p> + <p> + "My boy speaks French," the landlord said, "and if you like he can go + along the port with you. Of course, you will give him something for his + trouble?" + </p> + <p> + "Willingly," Cyril said, "and be much obliged to you into the bargain." + </p> + <p> + The landlord left the bar and returned in a minute with a boy twelve years + old. + </p> + <p> + "He does not speak French very well," he said, "but I dare say it will be + enough for your purpose. I have told him that you want to take ship to + England, or that, if you cannot find one, to Dunkirk. If that will not do, + Ostend might suit you. They speak French there, and there are boats always + going between there and England." + </p> + <p> + "That would do; though I should prefer the other." + </p> + <p> + "There would be no difficulty at any other time in getting a boat for + England, but I don't know whether you will do so now. They have been + clearing off for some days, and I doubt if you will find an English ship + in port now, though of course there may be those who have been delayed for + their cargo." + </p> + <p> + Cyril went out with the boy, and after making many inquiries learnt that + there was but one English vessel still in port. However, Cyril told his + guide that he would prefer one for Dunkirk if they could find one, for if + war were declared before the boat sailed, she might be detained. After + some search they found a coasting scow that would sail in the morning. + </p> + <p> + "They will touch at two or three places," the boy said to Cyril, after a + talk with the captain; "but if you are not in a hurry, he will take you + and land you at Dunkirk for a pound—that is, if he finds food; if + you find food he will take you for eight shillings. He will start at + daybreak." + </p> + <p> + "Tell him that I agree to his price. I don't want the trouble of getting + food. As he will be going so early, I will come on board at once. I will + get my bundle, and will be back in half an hour." + </p> + <p> + He went with the boy to one of the sailors' shops near, bought a rough + coat and a thick blanket, had them wrapped up into a parcel, and then, + after paying the boy, went on board. + </p> + <p> + As he expected, he found there were no beds or accommodation for + passengers, so he stretched himself on a locker in the cabin, covered + himself with his blanket, and put the coat under his head for a pillow. + His real reason for choosing this craft in preference to the English ship + was that he thought it probable that, when he did not return to the house, + it would at once be suspected that he had recognised the visitors, and was + not going to return at all. In that case, they might suspect that he would + try to take passage to England, and would, the first thing in the morning, + make a search for him on board any English vessels that might be in the + port. + </p> + <p> + It would be easy then for them to get him ashore, for the diamond merchant + might accuse him of theft, and so get him handed over to him. Rather than + run that risk, he would have started on foot had he not been able to find + a native craft sailing early in the morning. Failing Dunkirk and Ostend, + he would have taken a passage to any other Dutch port, and run his chance + of getting a ship from there. The great point was to get away from + Rotterdam. + </p> + <p> + The four men forming the crew of the scow returned late, and by their loud + talk Cyril, who kept his eyes closed, judged that they were in liquor. In + a short time they climbed up into their berths, and all was quiet. At + daybreak they were called up by the captain. Cyril lay quiet until, by the + rippling of the water against the side, he knew that the craft was under + way. He waited a few minutes, and then went up on deck. The scow, clumsy + as she looked, was running along fast before a brisk wind, and in an hour + Rotterdam lay far behind them. + </p> + <p> + The voyage was a pleasant one. They touched at Dordrecht, at Steenbergen + on the mainland, and Flushing, staying a few hours in each place to take + in or discharge cargo. After this, they made out from the Islands, and ran + along the coast, putting into Ostend and Nieuport, and, four days after + starting, entered the port of Dunkirk. + </p> + <p> + Cyril did not go ashore at any of the places at which they stopped. It was + possible that war might have been declared with England, and as it might + be noticed that he was a foreigner he would in that case be questioned and + arrested. As soon, therefore, as they neared a quay, he went down to the + cabin and slept until they got under way again. The food was rough, but + wholesome; it consisted entirely of fish and black bread; but the sea air + gave him a good appetite, and he was in high spirits at the thought that + he had escaped from danger and was on his way back again. At Dunkirk he + was under the French flag, and half an hour after landing had engaged a + passage to London on a brig that was to sail on the following day. The + voyage was a stormy one, and he rejoiced in the possession of his + great-coat, which he had only bought in order that he might have a packet + to bring on board the scow, and so avoid exciting any suspicion or + question as to his being entirely unprovided with luggage. + </p> + <p> + It was three days before the brig dropped anchor in the Pool. As soon as + she did so, Cyril hailed a waterman, and spent almost his last remaining + coin in being taken to shore. He was glad that it was late in the + afternoon and so dark that his attire would not be noticed. His clothes + had suffered considerably from his capture and confinement on board the <i>Eliza</i>, + and his great-coat was of a rough appearance that was very much out of + character in the streets of London. He had, however, but a short distance + to traverse before he reached the door of the house. He rang at the bell, + and the door was opened by John Wilkes. + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" the latter asked. "The shop is shut for the night, and I + ain't going to open for anyone. At half-past seven in the morning you can + get what you want, but not before." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know me, John?" Cyril laughed. The old sailor stepped back as + if struck with a blow. + </p> + <p> + "Eh, what?" he exclaimed. "Is it you, Cyril? Why, we had all thought you + dead! I did not know you in this dim light and in that big coat you have + got on. Come upstairs, master. Captain Dave and the ladies will be glad + indeed to see you. They have been mourning for you sadly, I can tell you." + </p> + <p> + Cyril took off his wrap and hung it on a peg, and then followed John + upstairs. + </p> + <p> + "There, Captain Dave," the sailor said, as he opened the door of the + sitting-room. "There is a sight for sore eyes!—a sight you never + thought you would look on again." + </p> + <p> + For a moment Captain Dave, his wife, and daughter stared at Cyril as if + scarce believing their eyes. Then the Captain sprang to his feet. + </p> + <p> + "It's the lad, sure enough. Why, Cyril," he went on, seizing him by the + hand, and shaking it violently, "we had never thought to see you alive + again; we made sure that those pirates had knocked you on the head, and + that you were food for fishes by this time. There has been no comforting + my good wife; and as to Nellie, if it had been a brother she had lost, she + could not have taken it more hardly." + </p> + <p> + "They did knock me on the head, and very hard too, Captain Dave. If my + skull hadn't been quite so thick, I should, as you say, have been food for + fishes before now, for that is what they meant me for, and there is no + thanks to them that I am here at present. I am sorry that you have all + been made so uncomfortable about me." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +"We should have been an ungrateful lot indeed if we had not, +considering that in the first place you saved us from being ruined by +those pirates, and that it was, as we thought, owing to the services +you had done us that you had come to your end." + + "But where have you been, Master Cyril?" Nellie broke in. "What has +happened to you? We have been picturing all sorts of horrors, mother +and I. That evil had befallen you we were sure, for we knew that you +would not go away of a sudden, in this fashion, without so much as +saying goodbye. We feared all the more when, two days afterwards, the +wretches were so bold as to attack the constables, and to rescue +Robert Ashford and another from their hands. Men who would do this in +broad daylight would surely hesitate at nothing." +</pre> + <p> + "Let him eat his supper without asking further questions, Nellie," her + father said. "It is ill asking one with victuals before him to begin a + tale that may, for aught I know, last an hour. Let him have his food, + lass, and then I will light my pipe, and John Wilkes shall light his here + instead of going out for it, and we will have the yarn in peace and + comfort. It spoils a good story to hurry it through. Cyril is here, alive + and well; let that content you for a few minutes." + </p> + <p> + "If I must, I must," Nellie said, with a little pout. "But you should + remember, father, that, while you have been all your life having + adventures of some sort, this is the very first that I have had; for + though Cyril is the one to whom it befell, it is all a parcel with the + robbery of the house and the capture of the thieves." + </p> + <p> + "When does the trial come off, Captain Dave?" + </p> + <p> + "It came off yesterday. Marner is to be hung at the end of the week. He + declared that he was but in the lane by accident when two lads opened the + gate. He and the man with him, seeing that they were laden with goods, + would have seized them, when they themselves were attacked and beaten + down. But this ingenuity did not save him. Tom Frost had been admitted as + King's evidence, and testified that Marner had been several times at the + gate with the fellow that escaped, to receive the stolen goods. Moreover, + there were many articles among those found at his place that I was able to + swear to, besides the proceeds of over a score of burglaries. The two men + taken in his house will have fifteen years in gaol. The women got off + scot-free; there was no proof that they had taken part in the robberies, + though there is little doubt they knew all about them." + </p> + <p> + "But how did they prove the men were concerned?" + </p> + <p> + "They got all the people whose property had been found there, and four of + these, on seeing the men in the yard at Newgate, were able to swear to + them as having been among those who came into their rooms and frightened + them well-nigh to death. It was just a question whether they should be + hung or not, and there was some wonder that the Judge let them escape the + gallows." + </p> + <p> + "And what has become of Tom?" + </p> + <p> + "They kept Tom in the prison till last night. I saw him yesterday, and I + am sure the boy is mighty sorry for having been concerned in the matter, + being, as I truly believe, terrified into it. I had written down to an old + friend of mine who has set up in the same way as myself at Plymouth. Of + course I told him all the circumstances, but assured him, that according + to my belief, the boy was not so much to blame, and that I was sure the + lesson he had had, would last him for life; so I asked him to give Tom + another chance, and if he did so, to keep the knowledge of this affair + from everyone. I got his answer yesterday morning, telling me to send him + down to him; he would give him a fair trial, and if he wasn't altogether + satisfied with him, would then get him a berth as ship's boy. So, last + night after dark, he was taken down by John Wilkes, and put on board a + coaster bound for Plymouth. I would have taken him back here, but after + your disappearance I feared that his life would not be safe; for although + they had plenty of other cases they could have proved against Marner, + Tom's evidence brought this business home to him." + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave would not allow Cyril to begin his story until the table had + been cleared and he and John Wilkes had lighted their pipes. Then Cyril + told his adventure, the earlier part of which elicited many exclamations + of pity from Dame Dowsett and Mistress Nellie, and some angry ejaculations + from the Captain when he heard that Black Dick and Robert Ashford had got + safely off to Holland. + </p> + <p> + "By St. Anthony, lad," he broke out, when the story was finished, "you had + a narrow escape from those villains at Rotterdam. Had it chanced that you + were out at the time they came, I would not have given a groat for your + life. By all accounts, that fellow Black Dick is a desperate villain. They + say that they had got hold of evidence enough against him to hang a dozen + men, and it seems that there is little doubt that he was concerned in + several cases, where, not content with robbing, the villain had murdered + the inmates of lonely houses round London. He had good cause for hating + you. It was through you that he had been captured, and had lost his share + in all that plunder at Marner's. Well, I trust the villain will never + venture to show his face in London again; but there is never any saying. I + should like to meet that captain who behaved so well to you, and I will + meet him too, and shake him by the hand and tell him that any gear he may + want for that ketch of his, he is free to come in here to help himself. + There is another thing to be thought of. I must go round in the morning to + the Guildhall and notify the authorities that you have come back. There + has been a great hue and cry for you. They have searched the thieves' dens + of London from attic to cellar; there have been boats out looking for your + body; and on the day after you were missing they overhauled all the ships + in the port. Of course the search has died out now, but I must go and tell + them, and you will have to give them the story of the affair." + </p> + <p> + "I shan't say a word that will give them a clue that will help them to lay + hands on the captain. He saved my life, and no one could have been kinder + than he was. I would rather go away for a time altogether, for I don't see + how I am to tell the story without injuring him." + </p> + <p> + "No; it is awkward, lad. I see that, even if you would not give them the + name of the craft, they might find out what vessels went into Ipswich on + that morning, and also the names of those that sailed from Rotterdam on + the day she left." + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me, Captain, that the only way will be for me to say the + exact truth, namely, that I gave my word to the captain that I would say + naught of the matter. I could tell how I was struck down, and how I did + not recover consciousness until I found myself in a boat, and was lifted + on board a vessel and put down into the hold, and was there kept until + morning. I could say that when I was let out I found we were far down the + river, that the captain expressed great regret when he found that I had + been hurt so badly, that he did everything in his power for me, and that + after I had been some days on board the ship he offered to land me in + Holland, and to give me money to pay my fare back here if I would give him + my word of honour not to divulge his name or the name of the ship, or that + of the port at which he landed me. Of course, they can imprison me for a + time if I refuse to tell, but I would rather stay in gaol for a year than + say aught that might set them upon the track of Captain Madden. It was not + until the day he left me in Holland that I knew his name, for of course + the men always called him captain, and so did I." + </p> + <p> + "That is the only way I can see out of it, lad. I don't think they will + imprison you after the service you have done in enabling them to break up + this gang, bring the head of it to justice, and recover a large amount of + property." + </p> + <p> + So indeed, on their going to the Guildhall next morning, it turned out. + The sitting Alderman threatened Cyril with committal to prison unless he + gave a full account of all that had happened to him, but Captain Dowsett + spoke up for him, and said boldly that instead of punishment he deserved + honour for the great service he had done to justice, and that, moreover, + if he were punished for refusing to keep the promise of secrecy he had + made, there was little chance in the future of desperate men sparing the + lives of those who fell into their hands. They would assuredly murder them + in self-defence if they knew that the law would force them to break any + promise of silence they might have made. The Magistrate, after a + consultation with the Chief Constable, finally came round to this view, + and permitted Cyril to leave the Court, after praising him warmly for the + vigilance he had shown in the protection of his employer's interests. He + regretted that he had not been able to furnish them with the name of a man + who had certainly been, to some extent, an accomplice of those who had + assaulted him, but this was not, however, so much to be regretted, since + the man had done all in his power to atone for his actions. + </p> + <p> + "There is no further information you can give us, Master Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "Only this, your worship: that on the day before I left Holland, I caught + sight of the two persons who had escaped from the constables. They had + just landed." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry to hear it," the Alderman said. "I had hoped that they were + still in hiding somewhere in the City, and that the constables might yet + be able to lay hands on them. However, I expect they will be back again + erelong. Your ill-doer is sure to return here sooner or later, either with + the hope of further gain, or because he cannot keep away from his old + haunts and companions. If they fall into the hands of the City Constables, + I will warrant they won't escape again." + </p> + <p> + He nodded to Cyril, who understood that his business was over and left the + Court with Captain Dave. + </p> + <p> + "I am not so anxious as the Alderman seemed to be that Black Dick and + Robert Ashford should return to London, Captain Dave." + </p> + <p> + "No; I can understand that, Cyril. And even now that you know they are + abroad, it would be well to take every precaution, for the others whose + business has been sorely interrupted by the capture of that villain Marner + may again try to do you harm. No doubt other receivers will fill his place + in time, but the loss of a ready market must incommode them much. Plate + they can melt down themselves, and I reckon they would have but little + difficulty in finding knaves ready to purchase the products of the + melting-pot; but it is only a man with premises specially prepared for it + who will buy goods of all kinds, however bulky, without asking questions + about them." + </p> + <p> + Cyril was now in high favour with Mistress Nellie, and whenever he was not + engaged when she went out he was invited to escort her. + </p> + <p> + One day he went with her to hear a famous preacher hold forth at St. + Paul's. Only a portion of the cathedral was used for religious services; + the rest was utilised as a sort of public promenade, and here people of + all classes met—gallants of the Court, citizens, their wives and + daughters, idlers and loungers, thieves and mendicants. + </p> + <p> + As Nellie walked forward to join the throng gathered near the pulpit, + Cyril noticed a young man in a Court suit, standing among a group who were + talking and laughing much louder than was seemly, take off his plumed hat, + and make a deep bow, to which she replied by a slight inclination of the + head, and passed on with somewhat heightened colour. + </p> + <p> + Cyril waited until the service was over, when, as he left the cathedral + with her, he asked,— + </p> + <p> + "Who was that ruffler in gay clothes, who bowed so deeply to you, Mistress + Nellie?—that is, if there is no indiscretion in my asking." + </p> + <p> + "I met him in a throng while you were away," she said, with an attempt at + carelessness which he at once detected. "There was a great press, and I + well-nigh fainted, but he very courteously came to my assistance, and + brought me safely out of the crowd." + </p> + <p> + "And doubtless you have seen him since, Mistress?" + </p> + <p> + Nellie tossed her head. + </p> + <p> + "I don't see what right you have to question me, Master Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "No right at all," Cyril replied good-temperedly, "save that I am an + inmate of your father's house, and have received great kindness from him, + and I doubt if he would be pleased if he knew that you bowed to a person + unknown to him and unknown, I presume, to yourself, save that he has + rendered you a passing service." + </p> + <p> + "He is a gentleman of the Court, I would have you know," she said angrily. + </p> + <p> + "I do not know that that is any great recommendation if the tales one + hears about the Court are true," Cyril replied calmly. "I cannot say I + admire either his companions or his manners, and if he is a gentleman he + should know that if he wishes to speak to an honest citizen's daughter it + were only right that he should first address himself to her father." + </p> + <p> + "Heigh ho!" Nellie exclaimed, with her face flushed with indignation. "Who + made you my censor, I should like to know? I will thank you to attend to + your own affairs, and to leave mine alone." + </p> + <p> + "The affairs of Captain Dave's daughter are mine so long as I am abroad + with her," Cyril said firmly. "I am sorry to displease you, but I am only + doing what I feel to be my duty. Methinks that, were John Wilkes here in + charge of you, he would say the same, only probably he would express his + opinion as to yonder gallant more strongly than I do;" he nodded in the + direction of the man, who had followed them out of the cathedral, and was + now walking on the other side of the street and evidently trying to + attract Nellie's attention. + </p> + <p> + Nellie bit her lips. She was about to answer him passionately, but + restrained herself with a great effort. + </p> + <p> + "You are mistaken in the gentleman, Cyril," she said, after a pause; "he + is of a good family, and heir to a fine estate." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, he has told you as much as that, has he? Well, Mistress Nellie, it + may be as he says, but surely it is for your father to inquire into that, + when the gentleman comes forward in due course and presents himself as a + suitor. Fine feathers do not always make fine birds, and a man may ruffle + it at King Charles's Court without ten guineas to shake in his purse." + </p> + <p> + At this moment the young man crossed the street, and, bowing deeply to + Nellie, was about to address her when Cyril said gravely,— + </p> + <p> + "Sir, I am not acquainted with your name, nor do I know more about you + save that you are a stranger to this lady's family. That being so, and as + she is at present under my escort, I must ask you to abstain from + addressing her." + </p> + <p> + "You insolent young varlet!" the man said furiously. "Had I a cane instead + of a sword I would chastise you for your insolence." + </p> + <p> + "That is as it may be," Cyril said quietly. "That sort of thing may do + down at Whitehall, but if you attempt to make trouble here in Cheapside + you will very speedily find yourself in the hands of the watch." + </p> + <p> + "For Heaven's sake, sir," Nellie said anxiously, as several passers-by + paused to see what was the matter, "do not cause trouble. For my sake, if + not for your own, pray leave me." + </p> + <p> + "I obey you, Mistress," the man said again, lifting his hat and bowing + deeply. "I regret that the officiousness of this blundering varlet should + have mistaken my intentions, which were but to salute you courteously." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he replaced his hat, and, with a threatening scowl at Cyril, + pushed his way roughly through those standing round, and walked rapidly + away. + </p> + <p> + Nellie was very pale, and trembled from head to foot. + </p> + <p> + "Take me home, Cyril," she murmured. + </p> + <p> + He offered her his arm, and he made his way along the street, while his + face flushed with anger at some jeering remarks he heard from one or two + of those who looked on at the scene. It was not long before Nellie's anger + gained the upper hand of her fears. + </p> + <p> + "A pretty position you have placed me in, with your interference!" + </p> + <p> + "You mean, I suppose, Mistress Nellie, a pretty position that man placed + you in, by his insolence. What would Captain Dave say if he heard that his + daughter had been accosted by a Court gallant in the streets?" + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to tell him?" she asked, removing her hand sharply from his + arm. + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt I ought to do so, and if you will take my advice you will + tell him yourself as soon as you reach home, for it may be that among + those standing round was someone who is acquainted with both you and your + father; and you know as well as I do what Captain Dave would say if it + came to his ears in such fashion." + </p> + <p> + Nellie walked for some time in silence. Her anger rose still higher + against Cyril at the position in which his interference had placed her, + but she could not help seeing that his advice was sound. She had indeed + met this man several times, and had listened without chiding to his + protestations of admiration and love. Nellie was ambitious. She had been + allowed to have her own way by her mother, whose sole companion she had + been during her father's absence at sea. She knew that she was remarkably + pretty, and saw no reason why she, like many another citizen's daughter, + should not make a good match. She had readily given the man her promise to + say nothing at home until he gave her leave to do so, and she had been + weak, enough to take all that he said for gospel. Now she felt that, at + any rate, she must smooth matters over and put it so that as few questions + as possible should be asked. After a long pause, then, she said,— + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you are right, Cyril. I will myself tell my father and mother. I + can assure you that I had no idea I should meet him to-day." + </p> + <p> + This Cyril could readily believe, for certainly she would not have asked + him to accompany her if she had known. However, he only replied gravely,— + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to hear that you will tell them, Mistress Nellie, and trust + that you will take them entirely into your confidence." + </p> + <p> + This Nellie had no idea of doing; but she said no further word until they + reached home. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII — SAVED FROM A VILLAIN + </h2> + <p> + "I find that I have to give you thanks for yet another service, Cyril," + Captain Dave said heartily, when they met the next morning. "Nellie tells + me a young Court gallant had the insolence to try to address her yesterday + in Cheapside, on her way back from St. Paul's, that you prevented his + doing so, and that there was quite a scene in the street. If I knew who he + was I would break his sconce for him, were he Rochester himself. A pretty + pass things have come to, when a citizen's daughter cannot walk home from + St. Paul's without one of these impudent vagabonds of the Court venturing + to address her! Know you who he was?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I have never seen the fellow before, Captain Dave. I do know many of + the courtiers by sight, having, when we first came over, often gone down + to Whitehall with my father when he was seeking to obtain an audience with + the King; but this man's face is altogether strange to me." + </p> + <p> + "Well, well! I will take care that Nellie shall not go abroad again except + under her mother's escort or mine. I know, Cyril, that she would be as + safe under your charge as in ours, but it is better that she should have + the presence of an older person. It is not that I doubt your courage or + your address, lad, but a ruffling gallant of this sort would know naught + of you, save that you are young, and besides, did you interfere, there + might be a scene that would do serious harm to Nellie's reputation." + </p> + <p> + "I agree with you thoroughly, Captain Dave," Cyril said warmly. "It will + be far better that you or Mrs. Dowsett should be by her side as long as + there is any fear of further annoyance from this fellow. I should ask + nothing better than to try a bout with him myself, for I have been right + well taught how to use my sword; but, as you say, a brawl in the street is + of all things to be avoided." + </p> + <p> + Three or four weeks passed quietly. Nellie seldom went abroad; when she + did so her mother always accompanied her if it were in the daytime, and + her father whenever she went to the house of any friend after dusk. + </p> + <p> + Cyril one day caught sight of the gallant in Tower Street, and although he + was on his way to one of his customers, he at once determined to break his + appointment and to find out who the fellow was. The man sauntered about + looking into the shops for full half an hour, but it was apparent to Cyril + that he paid little attention to their contents, and was really waiting + for someone. When the clock struck three he started, stamped his foot + angrily on the ground, and, walking away rapidly to the stairs of London + Bridge, took a seat in a boat, and was rowed up the river. + </p> + <p> + Cyril waited until he had gone a short distance, and then hailed a wherry + rowing two oars. + </p> + <p> + "You see that boat over there?" he said. "I don't wish to overtake it at + present. Keep a hundred yards or so behind it, but row inshore so that it + shall not seem that you are following them." + </p> + <p> + The men obeyed his instructions until they had passed the Temple; then, as + the other boat still kept in the middle of the stream, Cyril had no doubt + that it would continue its course to Westminster. + </p> + <p> + "Now stretch to your oars," he said to the watermen. "I want to get to + Westminster before the other boat, and to be well away from the stairs + before it comes up." + </p> + <p> + The rest of the journey was performed at much greater speed, and Cyril + alighted at Westminster while the other boat was some three or four + hundred yards behind. Paying the watermen, he went up the stairs, walked + away fifty or sixty yards, and waited until he saw the man he was + following appear. The latter walked quietly up towards Whitehall and + entered a tavern frequented by young bloods of the Court. Cyril pressed + his hat down over his eyes. His dress was not the same as that in which he + had escorted Nellie to the cathedral, and he had but small fear of being + recognised. + </p> + <p> + When he entered he sat down at a vacant table, and, having ordered a stoup + of wine, looked round. The man had joined a knot of young fellows like + himself, seated at a table. They were dissipated-looking blades, and were + talking loudly and boisterously. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Harvey, how goes it? Is the lovely maiden we saw when we were with + you at St. Paul's ready to drop into your arms?" + </p> + <p> + "Things are going on all right," Harvey said, with an air of + consciousness; "but she is watched by two griffins, her father and mother. + 'Tis fortunate they do not know me by sight, and I have thus chances of + slipping a note in her hand when I pass her. I think it will not be long + before you will have to congratulate me." + </p> + <p> + "She is an heiress and only daughter, is she not, honest John?" another + asked. + </p> + <p> + "She is an only child, and her father bears the reputation of doing a good + business; but as to what I shall finally do, I shall not yet determine. As + to that, I shall be guided by circumstances." + </p> + <p> + "Of course, of course," the one who had first spoken said. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had gained the information he required. The man's name was John + Harvey, and Nellie was keeping up a clandestine correspondence with him. + Cyril felt that were he to listen longer he could not restrain his + indignation, and, without touching the wine he had paid for, he hastily + left the tavern. + </p> + <p> + As he walked towards the city, he was unable to decide what he had better + do. Were he to inform Captain Dave of what he had heard there would be a + terrible scene, and there was no saying what might happen. Still, Nellie + must be saved from falling into the hands of this fellow, and if he + abstained from telling her father he must himself take steps to prevent + the possibility of such a thing taking place. The more he thought of it + the more he felt of the heavy responsibility it would be. Anxious as he + was to save Nellie from the anger of her father, it was of far greater + consequence to save her from the consequences of her own folly. At last he + resolved to take John Wilkes into his counsels. John was devoted to his + master, and even if his advice were not of much value, his aid in keeping + watch would be of immense service. Accordingly, that evening, when John + went out for his usual pipe after supper, Cyril, who had to go to a trader + in Holborn, followed him out quickly and overtook him a few yards from the + door. + </p> + <p> + "I want to have a talk with you, John." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir. Where shall it be? Nothing wrong, I hope? That new + apprentice looks to me an honest sort of chap, and the man we have got in + the yard now is an old mate of mine. He was a ship's boy on board the <i>Dolphin</i> + twenty-five years back, and he sailed under the Captain till he left the + sea. I would trust that chap just as I would myself." + </p> + <p> + "It is nothing of that sort, John. It is another sort of business + altogether, and yet it is quite as serious as the last. I have got half an + hour before I have to start to do those books at Master Hopkins'. Where + can we have a talk in a quiet place where there is no chance of our being + overheard?" + </p> + <p> + "There is a little room behind the bar at the place I go to, and I have no + doubt the landlord will let us have it, seeing as I am a regular + customer." + </p> + <p> + "At any rate we can see, John. It is too cold for walking about talking + here; and, besides, I think one can look at a matter in all lights much + better sitting down than one can walking about." + </p> + <p> + "That is according to what you are accustomed to," John said, shaking his + head. "It seems to me that I can look further into the innards of a + question when I am walking up and down the deck on night watch with just + enough wind aloft to take her along cheerful, and not too much of it, than + I can at any other time; but then, you see, that is just what one is + accustomed to. This is the place." + </p> + <p> + He entered a quiet tavern, and, nodding to five or six + weather-beaten-looking men, who were sitting smoking long pipes, each with + a glass of grog before him, went up to the landlord, who formed one of the + party. He had been formerly the master of a trader, and had come into the + possession of the tavern by marriage with its mistress, who was still the + acting head of the establishment. + </p> + <p> + "We have got a piece of business we want to overhaul, Peter. I suppose we + can have that cabin in yonder for a bit?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay. There is a good fire burning. You will find pipes on the table. + You will want a couple of glasses of grog, of course?" + </p> + <p> + John nodded, and then led the way into the little snuggery at the end of + the room. It had a glass door, so that, if desired, a view could be + obtained of the general room, but there was a curtain to draw across this. + There was a large oak settle on either side of the fire, and there was a + table, with pipes and a jar of tobacco standing between them. + </p> + <p> + "This is a tidy little crib," John said, as he seated himself and began to + fill a pipe. "There is no fear of being disturbed here. There has been + many a voyage talked over and arranged in this 'ere room. They say that + Blake himself, when the Fleet was in the river, would drop in here + sometimes, with one of his captains, for a quiet talk." + </p> + <p> + A minute later a boy entered and placed two steaming glasses of grog on + the table. The door closed after him, and John said,— + </p> + <p> + "Now you can get under way, Master Cyril. You have got a fair course now, + and nothing to bring you up." + </p> + <p> + "It is a serious matter, John. And before I begin, I must tell you that I + rely on your keeping absolute silence as to what I am going to tell you." + </p> + <p> + "That in course," John said, as he lifted his glass to his lips. "You + showed yourself a first-rate pilot in that last job, and I am content to + sail under you this time without asking any questions as to the ship's + course, and to steer according to orders." + </p> + <p> + Cyril told the story, interrupted frequently by angry ejaculations on the + part of the old bo'swain. + </p> + <p> + "Dash my wig!" he exclaimed, when Cyril came to an end. "But this is a bad + business altogether, Master Cyril. One can engage a pirate and beat him + off if the crew is staunch, but when there is treason on board ship, it + makes it an awkward job for those in command." + </p> + <p> + "The question is this, John: ought we to tell the Captain, or shall we try + to take the affair into our own hands, and so to manage it that he shall + never know anything about it?" + </p> + <p> + The sailor was silent for a minute or two, puffing his pipe meditatively. + </p> + <p> + "I see it is an awkward business to decide," he said. "On one side, it + would pretty nigh kill Captain Dave to know that Mistress Nellie has been + steering wild and has got out of hand. She is just the apple of his eye. + Then, on the other hand, if we undertook the job without telling him, and + one fine morning we was to find out she was gone, we should be in a mighty + bad fix, for the Captain would turn round and say, 'Why didn't you tell + me? If you had done so, I would have locked her up under hatches, and + there she would be, safe now.'" + </p> + <p> + "That is just what I see, and it is for that reason I come to you. I could + not be always on the watch, but I think that you and I together would keep + so sharp a look-out that we might feel pretty sure that she could not get + away without our knowledge." + </p> + <p> + "We could watch sharply enough at night, Master Cyril. There would be no + fear of her getting away then without our knowing it. But how would it be + during the day? There am I in the shop or store from seven in the morning + until we lock up before supper-time. You are out most of your time, and + when you are not away, you are in the office at the books, and she is free + to go in and out of the front door without either of us being any the + wiser." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think he would venture to carry her off by daylight," Cyril said. + "She never goes out alone now, and could scarcely steal away unnoticed. + Besides, she would know that she would be missed directly, and a hue and + cry set up. I should think she would certainly choose the evening, when we + are all supposed to be in bed. He would have a chair waiting somewhere + near; and there are so often chairs going about late, after city + entertainments, that they would get off unnoticed. I should say the most + dangerous time is between nine o'clock and midnight. She generally goes + off to bed at nine or soon after, and she might very well put on her hood + and cloak and steal downstairs at once, knowing that she would not be + missed till morning. Another dangerous time would be when she goes out to + a neighbour's. The Captain always takes her, and goes to fetch her at nine + o'clock, but she might make some excuse to leave quite early, and go off + in that way." + </p> + <p> + "That would be awkward, Mr. Cyril, for neither you nor I could be away at + supper-time without questions being asked. It seems to me that I had + better take Matthew into the secret. As he don't live in the house he + could very well watch wherever she is, till I slip round after supper to + relieve him, and he could watch outside here in the evening till either + you or I could steal downstairs and take his place. You can count on him + keeping his mouth shut just as you can on me. The only thing is, how is he + to stop her if he finds her coming out from a neighbour's before the + Captain has come for her?" + </p> + <p> + "If he saw her coming straight home he could follow her to the door + without being noticed, John, but if he found her going some other way he + must follow her till he sees someone speak to her, and must then go + straight up and say, 'Mistress Dowsett, I am ready to escort you home.' If + she orders him off, or the man she meets threatens him, as is like enough, + he must say, 'Unless you come I shall shout for aid, and call upon + passers-by to assist me'; and, rather than risk the exposure, she would + most likely return with him. Of course, he would carry with him a good + heavy cudgel, and choose a thoroughfare where there are people about to + speak to her, and not an unfrequented passage, for you may be sure the + fellow would have no hesitation in running him through if he could do so + without being observed." + </p> + <p> + "Matthew is a stout fellow," John Wilkes said, "and was as smart a sailor + as any on board till he had his foot smashed by being jammed by a spare + spar that got adrift in a gale, so that the doctors had to cut off the leg + under the knee, and leave him to stump about on a timber toe for the rest + of his life. I tell you what, Master Cyril: we might make the thing safer + still if I spin the Captain a yarn as how Matthew has strained his back + and ain't fit to work for a bit; then I can take on another hand to work + in the yard, and we can put him on watch all day. He might come on duty at + nine o'clock in the morning, and stop until I relieve him as soon as + supper is over. Of course, he would not keep opposite the house, but might + post himself a bit up or down the street, so that he could manage to keep + an eye on the door." + </p> + <p> + "That would be excellent," Cyril said. "Of course, at the supper-hour he + could go off duty, as she could not possibly leave the house between that + time and nine o'clock. You always come in about that hour, and I hear you + go up to bed. When you get there, you should at once take off your boots, + slip downstairs again with them, and go quietly out. I often sit talking + with Captain Dave till half-past nine or ten, but directly I can get away + I will come down and join you. I think in that way we need feel no + uneasiness as to harm coming from our not telling Captain Dave, for it + would be impossible for her to get off unnoticed. Now that is all arranged + I must be going, for I shall be late at my appointment unless I hurry." + </p> + <p> + "Shall I go round and begin my watch at once, Master Cyril?". + </p> + <p> + "No, there is no occasion for that. We know that he missed her to-day, and + therefore can have made no appointment; and I am convinced by what he said + to the fellows he met, that matters are not settled yet. However, we will + begin to-morrow. You can take an opportunity during the day to tell + Matthew about it, and he can pretend to strain his back in the afternoon, + and you can send him away. He can come round again next morning early, and + when the Captain comes down you can tell him that you find that Matthew + will not be able to work for the present, and ask him to let you take + another man on until he can come back again." + </p> + <p> + Cyril watched Nellie closely at meal-times and in the evening for the next + few days. He thought that he should be certain to detect some slight + change in her manner, however well she might play her part, directly she + decided on going off with this man. She would not dream that she was + suspected in any way, and would therefore be the less cautious. Matthew + kept watch during the day, and followed if she went out with her father to + a neighbour's, remaining on guard outside the house until John Wilkes + relieved him as soon as he had finished his supper. If she remained at + home in the evening John went out silently, after his return at his usual + hour, and was joined by Cyril as soon as Captain Dave said good-night and + went in to his bedroom. At midnight they re-entered the house and stole up + to their rooms, leaving their doors open and listening attentively for + another hour before they tried to get to sleep. + </p> + <p> + On the sixth morning Cyril noticed that Nellie was silent and abstracted + at breakfast-time. She went out marketing with her mother afterwards, and + at dinner her mood had changed. She talked and laughed more than usual. + There was a flush of excitement on her cheeks, and he drew the conclusion + that in the morning she had not come to an absolute decision, but had + probably given an answer to the man during the time she was out with her + mother, and that she felt the die was now cast. + </p> + <p> + "Pass the word to Matthew to keep an extra sharp watch this afternoon and + to-morrow, John. I think the time is close at hand," he said, as they went + downstairs together after dinner. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think so? Well, the sooner the better. It is trying work, this + here spying, and I don't care how soon it is over. I only hope it will end + by our running down this pirate and engaging him." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so too, John. I feel it very hard to be sitting at table with her + and Captain Dave and her mother, and to know that she is deceiving them." + </p> + <p> + "I can't say a word for her," the old sailor said, shaking his head. "She + has as good parents as a girl could want to have. They would give their + lives for her, either of them, cheerful, and there she is thinking of + running away from them with a scamp she knows nothing of and has probably + never spoken with for an hour. I knew her head was a bit turned with young + fellows dangling after her, and by being noticed by some of the Court + gallants at the last City ball, and by being made the toast by many a + young fellow in City taverns—'Pretty Mistress Nellie Dowsett'; but I + did not think her head was so turned that she would act as she is doing. + Well, well, we must hope that this will be a lesson, Master Cyril, that + she will remember all her life." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so, John, and I trust that we shall be able to manage it all so + that the matter will never come to her parents' ears." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so, and I don't see why it should. The fellow may bluster, but he + will say nothing about it because he would get into trouble for trying to + carry off a citizen's daughter." + </p> + <p> + "And besides that, John,—which would be quite as serious in the eyes + of a fellow of this sort,—he would have the laugh against him among + all his companions for having been outwitted in the City. So I think when + he finds the game is up he will be glad enough to make off without causing + trouble." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you think we might give him a sound thrashing? It would do him a + world of good." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think it would do a man of that sort much good, John, and he + would be sure to shout, and then there would be trouble, and the watch + might come up, and we should all get hauled off together. In the morning + the whole story would be known, and Mistress Nellie's name in the mouth of + every apprentice in the City. No, no; if he is disposed to go off quietly, + by all means let him go." + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt that you are right, Master Cyril, but it goes mightily + against the grain to think that a fellow like that is to get off with a + whole skin. However, if one should fall foul of him some other time, one + might take it out of him." + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave found Cyril but a bad listener to his stories that evening, + and, soon after nine, said he should turn in. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what ails you to-night, Cyril," he said. "Your wits are + wool-gathering, somewhere. I don't believe that you heard half that last + story I was telling you." + </p> + <p> + "I heard it all, sir; but I do feel a little out of sorts this evening." + </p> + <p> + "You do too much writing, lad. My head would be like to go to pieces if I + were to sit half the hours that you do at a desk." + </p> + <p> + When Captain Dave went into his room, Cyril walked upstairs and closed his + bedroom door with a bang, himself remaining outside. Then he took off his + boots, and, holding them in his hand, went noiselessly downstairs to the + front door. The lock had been carefully oiled, and, after putting on his + boots again, he went out. + </p> + <p> + "You are right, Master Cyril, sure enough," John Wilkes said when he + joined him, fifty yards away from the house. "It is to-night she is going + to try to make off. I thought I had best keep Matthew at hand, so I bid + him stop till I came out, then sent him round to have a pint of ale at the + tavern, and when he came back told him he had best cruise about, and look + for signs of pirates. He came back ten minutes ago, and told me that a + sedan chair had just been brought to the other end of the lane. It was set + down some thirty yards from Fenchurch Street. There were the two chairmen + and three fellows wrapped up in cloaks." + </p> + <p> + "That certainly looks like action, John. Well, I should say that Matthew + had better take up his station at the other end of the lane, there to + remain quiet until he hears an uproar at the chair; then he can run up to + our help if we need it. We will post ourselves near the door. No doubt + Harvey, and perhaps one of his friends, will come and wait for her. We + can't interfere with them here, but must follow and come up with her just + before they reach the chair. The further they are away from the house the + better. Then if there is any trouble Captain Dave will not hear anything + of it." + </p> + <p> + "That will be a good plan of operations," John agreed. "Matthew is just + round the next corner. I will send him to Fenchurch Street at once." + </p> + <p> + He went away, and rejoined Cyril in two or three minutes. They then went + along towards the house, and took post in a doorway on the other side of + the street, some thirty yards from the shop. They had scarcely done so, + when they heard footsteps, and presently saw two men come along in the + middle of the street. They stopped and looked round. + </p> + <p> + "There is not a soul stirring," one said. "We can give the signal." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he sang a bar or two of a song popular at the time, and they + then drew back from the road into a doorway and waited. + </p> + <p> + Five minutes later, Cyril and his fellow-watcher heard a very slight + sound, and a figure stepped out from Captain Dowsett's door. The two men + crossed at once and joined her. A few low words were spoken, and they + moved away together, and turned up the lane. + </p> + <p> + As soon as they disappeared from sight, Cyril and John Wilkes issued out. + The latter had produced some long strips of cloth, which he wound round + both their boots, so as, he said, to muffle the oars. Their steps, + therefore, as they followed, were almost noiseless. Walking fast, they + came up to the three persons ahead of them just as they reached the sedan + chair. The two chairmen were standing at the poles, and a third man was + holding the door open with his hat in his hand. + </p> + <p> + "Avast heaving, mates!" John Wilkes said. "It seems to me as you are + running this cargo without proper permits." + </p> + <p> + Nellie gave a slight scream on hearing the voice, while the man beside her + stepped forward, exclaiming furiously: + </p> + <p> + "S" death, sir! who are you, and what are you interfering about?" + </p> + <p> + "I am an honest man I hope, master. My name is John Wilkes, and, as that + young lady will tell you, I am in the employ of her father." + </p> + <p> + "Then I tell you, John Wilkes, or John the Devil, or whatever your name + maybe, that if you don't at once take yourself off, I will let daylight + into you," and he drew his sword, as did his two companions. + </p> + <p> + John gave a whistle, and the wooden-legged man was heard hurrying up from + Fenchurch Street. + </p> + <p> + "Cut the scoundrel down, Penrose," Harvey exclaimed, "while I put the lady + into the chair." + </p> + <p> + The man addressed sprang at Wilkes, but in a moment his Court sword was + shivered by a blow from the latter's cudgel, which a moment later fell + again on his head, sending him reeling back several paces. + </p> + <p> + "Stay, sir, or I will run you through," Cyril said, pricking Harvey + sharply in the arm as he was urging Nellie to enter the chair. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, it's you, is it?" the other exclaimed, in a tone of fury. "My boy of + Cheapside! Well, I can spare a moment to punish you." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, do not fight with him, my lord!" Nellie exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + "My lord!" Cyril laughed. "So he has become a lord, eh?" + </p> + <p> + Then he changed his tone. + </p> + <p> + "Mistress Nellie, you have been deceived. This fellow is no lord. He is a + hanger-on of the Court, one John Harvey, a disreputable blackguard whom I + heard boasting to his boon-companions of his conquest. I implore you to + return home as quietly as you went. None will know of this." + </p> + <p> + He broke off suddenly, for, with an oath, Harvey rushed at him. Their + swords clashed, there was a quick thrust and parry, and then Harvey + staggered back with a sword-wound through the shoulder, dropping his sword + to the ground. + </p> + <p> + "Your game is up, John Harvey," Cyril said. "Did you have your deserts I + would pass my sword through your body. Now call your fellows off, or it + will be worse for them." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, it is not true? Surely it cannot be true?" Nellie cried, addressing + Harvey. "You cannot have deceived me?" + </p> + <p> + The fellow, smarting with pain, and seeing that the game was up, replied + with a savage curse. + </p> + <p> + "You may think yourself lucky that you are only disabled, you villain!" + Cyril said, taking a step towards him with his sword menacingly raised. + "Begone, sir, before my patience is exhausted, or, by heaven! it will be + your dead body that the chairmen will have to carry away." + </p> + <p> + "Disabled or not," John Wilkes exclaimed, "I will have a say in the + matter;" and, with a blow with his cudgel, he stretched Harvey on the + ground, and belaboured him furiously until Cyril dragged him away by + force. Harvey rose slowly to his feet. + </p> + <p> + "Take yourself off, sir," Cyril said. "One of your brave companions has + long ago bolted; the other is disarmed, and has his head broken. You may + thank your stars that you have escaped with nothing worse than a + sword-thrust through your shoulder, and a sound drubbing. Hanging would be + a fit punishment for knaves like you. I warn you, if you ever address or + in any way molest this lady again, you won't get off so easily." + </p> + <p> + Then he turned and offered his arm to Nellie, who was leaning against the + wall in a half-fainting state. Not a word was spoken until they emerged + from the lane. + </p> + <p> + "No one knows of this but ourselves, Mistress Nellie, and you will never + hear of it from us. Glad indeed I am that I have saved you from the misery + and ruin that must have resulted from your listening to that plausible + scoundrel. Go quietly upstairs. We will wait here till we are sure that + you have gone safely into your room; then we will follow. I doubt not that + you are angry with me now, but in time you will feel that you have been + saved from a great danger." + </p> + <p> + The door was not locked. He lifted the latch silently, and held the door + open for her to pass in. Then he closed it again, and turned to the two + men who followed them. + </p> + <p> + "This has been a good night's work, John." + </p> + <p> + "That has it. I don't think that young spark will be coming after City + maidens again. Well, it has been a narrow escape for her. It would have + broken the Captain's heart if she had gone in that way. What strange + things women are! I have always thought Mistress Nellie as sensible a girl + as one would want to see. Given a little over-much, perhaps, to thinking + of the fashion of her dress, but that was natural enough, seeing how + pretty she is and how much she is made of; and yet she is led, by a few + soft speeches from a man she knows nothing of, to run away from home, and + leave father, and mother, and all. Well, Matthew, lad, we sha'n't want any + more watching. You have done a big service to the master, though he will + never know it. I know I can trust you to keep a stopper on your jaws. + Don't you let a soul know of this—not even your wife." + </p> + <p> + "You trust me, mate," the man replied. "My wife is a good soul, but her + tongue runs nineteen to the dozen, and you might as well shout a thing out + at Paul's Cross as drop it into her ear. I think my back will be well + enough for me to come to work again to-morrow," he added, with a laugh. + </p> + <p> + "All right, mate. I shall be glad to have you again, for the chap who has + been in your place is a landsman, and he don't know a marling-spike from + an anchor. Good-night, mate." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Master Cyril," he went on, as the sailor walked away, "I don't + think there ever was such a good wind as that which blew you here. First + of all you saved Captain Dave's fortune, and now you save his daughter. I + look on Captain Dave as being pretty nigh the same as myself, seeing as I + have been with him man and boy for over thirty years, and I feel what you + have done for him just as if you had done it for me. I am only a rough + sailor-man, and I don't know how to put it in words, but I feel just full + up with a cargo of thankfulness." + </p> + <p> + "That is all right," Cyril said, holding out his hand, which John Wilkes + shook with a heartiness that was almost painful. "Captain Dave offered me + a home when I was alone without a friend in London, and I am glad indeed + that I have been able to render him service in return. I myself have done + little enough, though I do not say that the consequences have not been + important. It has been just taking a little trouble and keeping a few + watches—a thing not worth talking about one way or the other. I hope + this will do Mistress Nellie good. She is a nice girl, but too fond of + admiration, and inclined to think that she is meant for higher things than + to marry a London citizen. I think to-night's work will cure her of that. + This fellow evidently made himself out to her to be a nobleman of the + Court. Now she sees that he is neither a nobleman nor a gentleman, but a + ruffian who took advantage of her vanity and inexperience, and that she + would have done better to have jumped down the well in the yard than to + have put herself in his power. Now we can go up to bed. There is no more + probability of our waking the Captain than there has been on other nights; + but mind, if we should do so, you stick to the story we agreed on, that + you thought there was someone by the gate in the lane again, and so called + me to go down with you to investigate, not thinking it worth while to + rouse up the Captain on what might be a false alarm." + </p> + <p> + Everything remained perfectly quiet as they made their way upstairs to + their rooms as silently as possible. + </p> + <p> + "Where is Nellie?" Captain Dave asked, when they assembled at breakfast. + </p> + <p> + "She is not well," his wife replied, "I went to her room just now and + found that she was still a-bed. She said that she had a bad headache, and + I fear that she is going to have a fever, for her face is pale and her + eyes red and swollen, just as if she had been well-nigh crying them out of + her head; her hands are hot and her pulse fast. Directly I have had + breakfast I shall make her some camomile tea, and if that does not do her + good I shall send for the doctor." + </p> + <p> + "Do so, wife, without delay. Why, the girl has never ailed a day for + years! What can have come to her?" + </p> + <p> + "She says it is only a bad headache—that all she wants is to be left + alone." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, yes; that is all very well, but if she does not get better soon she + must be seen to. They say that there were several cases last week of that + plague that has been doing so much harm in foreign parts, and if that is + so it behoves us to be very careful, and see that any illness is attended + to without delay." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think that there is any cause for alarm," his wife said quietly. + "The child has got a headache and is a little feverish, but there is no + occasion whatever for thinking that it is anything more. There is nothing + unusual in a girl having a headache, but Nellie has had such good health + that if she had a prick in the finger you would think it was serious." + </p> + <p> + "By the way, John," Captain Dave said suddenly, "did you hear any noise in + the lane last night? Your room is at the back of the house, and you were + more likely to have heard it than I was. I have just seen one of the + watch, and he tells me that there was a fray there last night, for there + is a patch of blood and marks of a scuffle. It was up at the other end. + There is some mystery about it, he thinks, for he says that one of his + mates last night saw a sedan chair escorted by three men turn into the + lane from Fenchurch Street just before ten o'clock, and one of the + neighbours says that just after that hour he heard a disturbance and a + clashing of swords there. On looking out, he saw something dark that might + have been a chair standing there, and several men engaged in a scuffle. It + seemed soon over, and directly afterwards three people came down the lane + this way. Then he fancied that someone got into the chair, which was + afterwards carried out into Fenchurch Street." + </p> + <p> + "I did hear something that sounded like a quarrel or a fray," John Wilkes + said, "but there is nothing unusual about that. As everything was soon + quiet again, I gave no further thought to it." + </p> + <p> + "Well, it seems a curious affair, John. However, it is the business of the + City watch and not mine, so we need not bother ourselves about it. I am + glad to see you have got Matthew at work again this morning. He tells me + that he thinks he has fairly got over that sprain in his back." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII — THE CAPTAIN'S YARN + </h2> + <p> + Mindful of the fact that this affair had added a new enemy to those he had + acquired by the break-up of the Black Gang, Cyril thought it as well to go + round and give notice to the two traders whose books he attended to in the + evening, that unless they could arrange for him to do them in the daytime + he must give up the work altogether. Both preferred the former + alternative, for they recognised the advantage they had derived from his + work, and that at a rate of pay for which they could not have obtained the + services of any scrivener in the City. + </p> + <p> + It was three or four days before Nellie Dowsett made her appearance at the + general table. + </p> + <p> + "I can't make out what ails the girl," her mother said, on the previous + evening. "The fever speedily left her, as I told you, but she is weak and + languid, and seems indisposed to talk." + </p> + <p> + "She will soon get over that, my dear," Captain Dave said. "Girls are not + like men. I have seen them on board ship. One day they are laughing and + fidgeting about like wild things, the next day they are poor, woebegone + creatures. If she gets no better in a few days, I will see when my old + friend, Jim Carroll, is starting in his brig for Yarmouth, and will run + down with her myself—and of course with you, wife, if you will go—and + stay there a few days while he is unloading and filling up again. The + sea-air will set her up again, I warrant." + </p> + <p> + "Not at this time of year," Dame Dowsett said firmly. "With these bitter + winds it is no time for a lass to go a-sailing; and they say that Yarmouth + is a great deal colder than we are here, being exposed to the east winds." + </p> + <p> + "Well, well, Dame, then we will content ourselves with a run in the hoy + down to Margate. If we choose well the wind and tide we can start from + here in the morning and maybe reach there late in the evening, or, if not, + the next morning to breakfast. Or if you think that too far we will stop + at Sheerness, where we can get in two tides easily enough if the wind be + fair." + </p> + <p> + "That would be better, David; but it were best to see how she goes on. It + may be, as you say, that she will shortly gain her strength and spirits + again." + </p> + <p> + It was evident, when Nellie entered the room at breakfast-time the next + morning, that her mother's reports had not been exaggerated. She looked, + indeed, as if recovering from a severe illness, and when she said + good-morning to her father her voice trembled and her eyes filled with + tears. + </p> + <p> + "Tut, tut, lass! This will never do. I shall soon hardly own you for my + Nellie. We shall have to feed you up on capons and wine, child, or send + you down to one of the baths for a course of strengthening waters." + </p> + <p> + She smiled faintly, and then turning, gave her hand to Cyril. As she did + so, a slight flush of colour came into her cheeks. + </p> + <p> + "I am heartily glad to see you down again, Mistress Nellie," he said, "and + wish you a fair and speedy recovery." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be better presently," she replied, with an effort. "Good-morning, + John." + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning, Mistress Nellie. Right glad are we to see you down again, + for it makes but a dull table without your merry laugh to give an edge to + our appetites." + </p> + <p> + She sat down now, and the others, seeing that it was best to let her alone + for a while, chatted gaily together. + </p> + <p> + "There is no talk in the City but of the war, Cyril," the Captain said + presently. "They say that the Dutch make sure of eating us up, but they + won't find it as easy a job as they fancy. The Duke of York is to command + the Fleet. They say that Prince Rupert will be second. To my mind they + ought to have entrusted the whole matter to him. He proved himself as + brave a captain at sea as he was on land, and I will warrant he would lead + his ships into action as gallantly as he rode at the head of his Cavaliers + on many a stricken field. The ships are fitting out in all haste, and they + are gathering men at every sea-port. I should say they will have no lack + of hands, for there are many ships laid up, that at other times trade with + Holland, and Dantzic, and Dunkirk, and many a bold young sailor who will + be glad to try whether he can fight as stoutly against the Dutch under + York and Rupert as his father did under Blake." + </p> + <p> + "For my part," Cyril said, "I cannot understand it; for it seems to me + that the English and Dutch have been fighting for the last year. I have + been too busy to read the Journal, and have not been in the way of hearing + the talk of the coffeehouses and taverns; but, beyond that it is some + dispute about the colonies, I know little of the matter." + </p> + <p> + "I am not greatly versed in it myself, lad. Nellie here reads the Journal, + and goes abroad more than any of us, and should be able to tell us + something about it. Now, girl, can't you do something to set us right in + this matter, for I like not to be behind my neighbours, though I am such a + stay-at-home, having, as I thank the Lord, much happiness here, and no + occasion to go out to seek it." + </p> + <p> + "There was much discourse about it, father, the evening I went to Dame + King's. There were several gentlemen there who had trade with the East, + and one of them held shares in the English Company trading thither. After + supper was over, they discoursed more fully on the matter than was + altogether pleasing to some of us, who would much rather that, as we had + hoped, we might have dancing or singing. I could see that Dame King + herself was somewhat put out that her husband should have, without her + knowing of his intention, brought in these gentlemen. Still, the matter of + their conversation was new to us, and we became at last so mightily + interested in it that we listened to the discourse without bemoaning + ourselves that we had lost the amusement we looked for. I know I wished at + the time that you had been there. I say not that I can repeat all that I + heard, but as I had before read some of the matters spoken of in the + Journal, I could follow what the gentlemen said more closely. Soon after + the coming of the King to the throne the friendship between us and the + Spaniards, that had been weakened during the mastership of Cromwell, was + renewed, and they gave our ships many advantages at their ports, while, on + the other hand, they took away the privileges the Dutch had enjoyed there, + and thus our commerce with Spain increased, while that of the Dutch + diminished." + </p> + <p> + "That is certainly true, Nellie," her father said. "We have three ships + sailing through the Mediterranean now to one that sailed there ten years + ago, and doubtless the Dutch must have suffered by the increase in our + trade." + </p> + <p> + "Then he said that, as we had obtained the Island of Bombay in the East + Indies and the City of Tangier in Africa as the dowry of the Queen, and + had received the Island of Poleron for our East India Company by the + treaty with Holland, our commerce everywhere increased, and raised their + jealousy higher and higher. There was nothing in this of which complaint + could be made by the Dutch Government, but nevertheless they gave + encouragement to their East and West India Companies to raise trouble. + Their East India Company refused to hand over the Island, and laid great + limitations as to the places at which our merchants might trade in India. + The other Company acted in the same manner, and lawlessly took possession + of Cape Coast Castle, belonging to our English Company. + </p> + <p> + "The Duke of York, who was patron and governor of our African Company, + sent Sir Robert Holmes with four frigates to Guinea to make reprisals. He + captured a place from the Dutch and named it James's Fort, and then, + proceeding to the river Gambia, he turned out the Dutch traders there and + built a fort. A year ago, as the Dutch still held Cape Coast Castle, Sir + Robert was sent out again with orders to take it by force, and on the way + he overhauled a Dutch ship and found she carried a letter of secret + instructions from the Dutch Government to the West India Company to take + the English Fort at Cormantin. Seeing that the Hollanders, although + professing friendship, were thus treacherously inclined, he judged himself + justified in exceeding the commission he had received, and on his way + south he touched at Cape Verde. There he first captured two Dutch ships + and then attacked their forts on the Island of Gorse and captured them, + together with a ship lying under their guns. + </p> + <p> + "In the fort he found a great quantity of goods ready to be shipped. He + loaded his own vessels, and those that he had captured, with the + merchandise, and carried it to Sierra Leone. Then he attacked the Dutch + fort of St. George del Mena, the strongest on the coast, but failed there; + but he soon afterwards captured Cape Coast Castle, though, as the + gentlemen said, a mightily strong place. Then he sailed across to America, + and, as you know, captured the Dutch Settlements of New Netherlands, and + changed the name into that of New York. He did this not so much out of + reprisal for the misconduct of the Dutch in Africa, but because the land + was ours by right, having been discovered by the Cabots and taken + possession of in the name of King Henry VII., and our title always + maintained until the Dutch seized it thirty years ago. + </p> + <p> + "Then the Dutch sent orders to De Ruyter, who commanded the fleet which + was in the Mediterranean, to sail away privately and to make reprisals on + the Coast of Guinea and elsewhere. He first captured several of our + trading forts, among them that of Cormantin, taking great quantities of + goods belonging to our Company; he then sailed to Barbadoes, where he was + beaten off by the forts. Then he captured twenty of our ships off + Newfoundland, and so returned to Holland, altogether doing damage, as the + House of Commons told His Majesty, to the extent of eight hundred thousand + pounds. All this time the Dutch had been secretly preparing for war, which + they declared in January, which has forced us to do the same, although we + delayed a month in hopes that some accommodation might be arrived at. I + think, father, that is all that he told us, though there were many details + that I do not remember." + </p> + <p> + "And very well told, lass, truly. I wonder that your giddy head should + have taken in so much matter. Of course, now you tell them over, I have + heard these things before—the wrong that the Dutch did our Company + by seizing their post at Cape Coast, and the reprisals that Sir Robert + Holmes took upon them with our Company's ships—but they made no + great mark on my memory, for I was just taking over my father's work when + the first expedition took place. At any rate, none can say that we have + gone into this war unjustly, seeing that the Dutch began it, altogether + without cause, by first attacking our trading posts." + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me, Captain Dave," John Wilkes said, "that it has been mighty + like the war that our English buccaneers waged against the Spaniards in + the West Indies, while the two nations were at peace at home." + </p> + <p> + "It is curious," Cyril said, "that the trouble begun in Africa should have + shifted to the other side of the Atlantic." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, lad; just as that first trouble was at last fought out in the English + Channel, off the coast of France, so this is likely to be decided in + well-nigh the same waters." + </p> + <p> + "The gentlemen, the other night, were all of opinion," Nellie said, "that + the matter would never have come to such a head had it not been that De + Witt, who is now the chief man in Holland, belongs to the French party + there, and has been urged on by King Louis, for his own interest, to make + war with us." + </p> + <p> + "That may well be, Nellie. In all our English wars France has ever had a + part either openly or by intrigues. France never seems to be content with + attending to her own business, but is ever meddling with her neighbours', + and, if not fighting herself, trying to set them by the ears against each + other. If I were a bit younger, and had not lost my left flipper, I would + myself volunteer for the service. As for Master Cyril here, I know he is + burning to lay aside the pen and take to the sword." + </p> + <p> + "That is so, Captain Dave. As you know, I only took up the pen to keep me + until I was old enough to use a sword. I have been two years at it now, + and I suppose it will be as much longer before I can think of entering the + service of one of the Protestant princes; but as soon as I am fit to do + so, I shall get an introduction and be off; but I would tenfold rather + fight for my own country, and would gladly sail in the Fleet, though I + went but as a ship's boy." + </p> + <p> + "That is the right spirit, Master Cyril," John Wilkes exclaimed. "I would + go myself if the Captain could spare me and they would take such a + battered old hulk." + </p> + <p> + "I couldn't spare you, John," Captain Dave said. "I have been mighty near + making a mess of it, even with you as chief mate, and I might as well shut + up shop altogether if you were to leave me. I should miss you, too, + Cyril," he went on, stretching his arm across the table to shake hands + with the lad. "You have proved a real friend and a true; but were there a + chance of your going as an officer, I would not balk you, even if I could + do so. It is but natural that a lad of spirit should speak and think as + you do; besides, the war may not last for long, and when you come back, + and the ships are paid off, you would soon wipe off the arrears of work, + and get the books into ship-shape order. But, work or no work, that room + of yours will always stand ready for you while I live, and there will + always be a plate for you on this table." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Captain Dave. You always overrate my services, and forget that + they are but the consequence of the kindness that you have shown to me. + But I have no intention of going. It was but a passing thought. I have but + one friend who could procure me a berth as a volunteer, and as it is to + him I must look for an introduction to some foreign prince, I would not go + to him twice for a favour, especially as I have no sort of claim on his + kindness. To go as a cabin boy would be to go with men under my own + condition, and although I do not shirk hard work and rough usage, I should + not care for them in such fashion. Moreover, I am doing work which, even + without your hospitality, would suffice to keep me comfortably, and if I + went away, though but for a month, I might find that those for whom I work + had engaged other assistance. Spending naught, I am laying by money for + the time when I shall have to travel at my own expense and to provide + myself necessaries, and, maybe, to keep myself for a while until I can + procure employment. I have the prospect that, by the end of another two + years, I shall have gathered a sufficient store for all my needs, and I + should be wrong to throw myself out of employment merely to embark on an + adventure, and so to make a break, perhaps a long one, in my plans." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you worry yourself on that score," Captain Dave said warmly, and + then checked himself. "It will be time to talk about that when the time + comes. But you are right, lad. I like a man who steadfastly holds on the + way he has chosen, and will not turn to the right or left. There is not + much that a man cannot achieve if he keeps his aim steadily in view. Why, + Cyril, if you said you had made up your mind to be Lord Mayor of London, I + would wager that you would some day be elected." + </p> + <p> + Cyril laughed. + </p> + <p> + "I shall never set my eyes in that direction, nor do I think the thing I + have set myself to do will ever be in my power—that is, to buy back + my father's estate; but so long as I live I shall keep that in view." + </p> + <p> + "More unlikely things have happened, lad. You have got first to rise to be + a General; then, what with your pay and your share in the sack of a city + or two, and in other ways, you may come home with a purse full enough even + for that. But it is time for us to be going down below. Matthew will think + that we have forgotten him altogether." + </p> + <p> + Another fortnight passed. Nellie had, to a considerable extent, recovered + from the shock that she had suffered, but her manner was still quiet and + subdued, her sallies were less lively, and her father noticed, with some + surprise, that she no longer took any great interest in the gossip he + retailed of the gay doings of the Court. + </p> + <p> + "I can't think what has come over the girl," he said to his wife. "She + seems well in health again, but she is changed a good deal, somehow. She + is gentler and softer. I think she is all the better for it, but I miss + her merry laugh and her way of ordering things about, as if her pleasure + only were to be consulted." + </p> + <p> + "I think she is very much improved," Mrs. Dowsett said decidedly; "though + I can no more account for it than you can. She never used to have any care + about the household, and now she assists me in my work, and is in all + respects dutiful and obedient, and is not for ever bent upon gadding about + as she was before. I only hope it will continue so, for, in truth, I have + often sighed over the thought that she would make but a poor wife for an + honest citizen." + </p> + <p> + "Tut, tut, wife. It has never been as bad as that. Girls will be girls, + and if they are a little vain of their good looks, that will soften down + in time, when they get to have the charge of a household. You yourself, + dame, were not so staid when I first wooed you, as you are now; and I + think you had your own little share of vanity, as was natural enough in + the prettiest girl in Plymouth." + </p> + <p> + When Nellie was in the room Cyril did his best to save her from being + obliged to take part in the conversation, by inducing Captain Dave to tell + him stories of some of his adventures at sea. + </p> + <p> + "You were saying, Captain Dave, that you had had several engagements with + the Tunis Rovers," he said one evening. "Were they ever near taking you?" + </p> + <p> + "They did take me once, lad, and that without an engagement; but, + fortunately, I was not very long a prisoner. It was not a pleasant time + though, John, was it?" + </p> + <p> + "It was not, Captain Dave. I have been in sore danger of wreck several + times, and in three big sea-fights; but never did I feel so out of heart + as when I was lying, bound hand and foot, on the ballast in the hold of + that corsair. No true sailor is afraid of being killed; but the thought + that one might be all one's life a slave among the cruel heathen was + enough to take the stiffness out of any man's courage." + </p> + <p> + "But how was it that you were taken without an engagement, Captain Dave? + And how did you make your escape?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, lad, it was the carelessness of my first mate that did it; but as + he paid for his fault with his life let us say naught against him. He was + a handsome, merry young fellow, and had shipped as second mate, but my + first had died of fever in the Levant, and of course he got the step, + though all too young for the responsibility. We had met with some bad + weather when south of Malta, and had had a heavy gale for three days, + during which time we lost our main topmast, and badly strained the mizzen. + The weather abated when we were off Pantellaria, which is a bare rock + rising like a mountain peak out of the sea, and with only one place where + a landing can be safely effected. As the gale had blown itself out, and it + was likely we should have a spell of settled weather, I decided to anchor + close in to the Island, and to repair damages. + </p> + <p> + "We were hard at work for two days. All hands had had a stiff time of it, + and the second night, having fairly repaired damages, I thought to give + the crew a bit of a rest, and, not dreaming of danger, ordered that half + each watch might remain below. John Wilkes was acting as my second mate. + Pettigrew took the first watch; John had the middle watch; and then the + other came up again. I turned out once or twice, but everything was quiet—we + had not seen a sail all day. There was a light breeze blowing, but no + chance of its increasing, and as we were well sheltered in the only spot + where the anchorage was good, I own that I did not impress upon Pettigrew + the necessity for any particular vigilance. Anyhow, just as morning was + breaking I was woke by a shout. I ran out on deck, but as I did so there + was a rush of dark figures, and I was knocked down and bound before I knew + what had happened. As soon as I could think it over, it was clear enough. + The Moor had been coming into the anchorage, and, catching sight of us in + the early light, had run alongside and boarded us. + </p> + <p> + "The watch, of course, must have been asleep. There was not a shot fired + nor a drop of blood shed, for those on deck had been seized and bound + before they could spring to their feet, and the crew had all been caught + in their bunks. It was bitter enough. There was the vessel gone, and the + cargo, and with them my savings of twenty years' hard work, and the + prospect of slavery for life. The men were all brought aft and laid down + side by side. Young Pettigrew was laid next to me. + </p> + <p> + "'I wish to heaven, captain,' he said, 'you had got a pistol and your hand + free, and would blow out my brains for me. It is all my fault, and hanging + at the yard-arm is what I deserve. I never thought there was the slightest + risk—not a shadow of it—and feeling a bit dozy, sat down for + five minutes' caulk. Seeing that, no doubt the men thought they might do + the same; and this is what has come of it. I must have slept half an hour + at least, for there was no sail in sight when I went off, and this Moor + must have come round the point and made us out after that.' + </p> + <p> + "The corsair was lying alongside of us, her shrouds lashed to ours. There + was a long jabbering among the Moors when they had taken off our hatches + and seen that we were pretty well full up with cargo; then, after a bit, + we were kicked, and they made signs for us to get on our feet and to cross + over into their ship. The crew were sent down into the forward hold, and + some men went down with them to tie them up securely. John Wilkes, + Pettigrew, and myself were shoved down into a bit of a place below the + stern cabin. Our legs were tied, as well as our arms. The trap was shut, + and there we were in the dark. Of course I told Pettigrew that, though he + had failed in his duty, and it had turned out badly, he wasn't to be + blamed as if he had gone to sleep in sight of an enemy. + </p> + <p> + "'I had never given the Moors a thought myself,' I said, 'and it was not + to be expected that you would. But no sailor, still less an officer, ought + to sleep on his watch, even if his ship is anchored in a friendly harbour, + and you are to blame that you gave way to drowsiness. Still, even if you + hadn't, it might have come to the same thing in the long run, for the + corsair is a large one, and might have taken us even if you had made her + out as she rounded the point.' + </p> + <p> + "But, in spite of all I could say to cheer him, he took it to heart badly, + and was groaning and muttering to himself when they left us in the dark, + so I said to him,— + </p> + <p> + "'Look here, lad, the best way to retrieve the fault you have committed is + to try and get us out of the scrape. Set your brains to work, and let us + talk over what had best be done. There is no time to be lost, for with a + fair wind they can run from here to Tunis in four-and-twenty hours, and + once there one may give up all hope. There are all our crew on board this + ship. The Moor carried twice as many men as we do, but we may reckon they + will have put more than half of them on board our barque; they don't + understand her sails as well as they do their own, and will therefore want + a strong prize crew on board.' + </p> + <p> + "'I am ready to do anything, captain,' the young fellow said firmly. 'If + you were to give me the word, I would get into their magazine if I could, + and blow the ship into the air.' + </p> + <p> + "'Well, I don't know that I will give you that order, Pettigrew. To be a + heathen's slave is bad, but, at any rate, I would rather try that life for + a bit than strike my colours at once. Now let us think it over. In the + first place we have to get rid of these ropes; then we have to work our + way forward to the crew; and then to get on deck and fight for it. It is a + stiff job, look at it which way one will, but at any rate it will be + better to be doing something—even if we find at last that we can't + get out of this dog-kennel—than to lie here doing nothing.' + </p> + <p> + "After some talk, we agreed that it was not likely the Moors would come + down to us for a long time, for they might reckon that we could hold on + without food or water easy enough until they got to Tunis; having agreed + as to that point, we set to work to get our ropes loose. Wriggling + wouldn't do it, though we tried until the cords cut into our flesh. + </p> + <p> + "At last Pettigrew said,— + </p> + <p> + "'What a fool I am! I have got my knife hanging from a lanyard round my + neck. It is under my blouse, so they did not notice it when they turned my + pockets out.' + </p> + <p> + "It was a long job to get at that knife. At last I found the string behind + his neck, and, getting hold of it with my teeth, pulled till the knife + came up to his throat. Then John got it in his teeth, and the first part + of the job was done. The next was easy enough. John held the handle of the + knife in his teeth and Pettigrew got hold of the blade in his, and between + them they made a shift to open it; then, after a good deal of trouble, + Pettigrew shifted himself till he managed to get the knife in his hands. I + lay across him and worked myself backwards and forwards till the blade cut + through the rope at my wrist; then, in two more minutes, we were free. + Then we felt about, and found that the boarding between us and the main + hold was old and shaky, and, with the aid of the knife and of our three + shoulders, we made a shift at last to wrench one of the boards from its + place. + </p> + <p> + "Pettigrew, who was slightest, crawled through, and we soon got another + plank down. The hold was half full of cargo, which, no doubt, they had + taken out of some ship or other. We made our way forward till we got to + the bulkhead, which, like the one we had got through, was but a make-shift + sort of affair, with room to put your fingers between the planks. So we + hailed the men and told them how we had got free, and that if they didn't + want to work all their lives as slaves they had best do the same. They + were ready enough, you may be sure, and, finding a passage between the + planks wider in one place than the rest, we passed the knife through to + them, and told them how to set about cutting the rope. They were a deal + quicker over it than we had been, for in our place there had been no + height where we could stand upright, but they were able to do so. Two men, + standing back to back and one holding the knife, made quick work of + cutting the rope. + </p> + <p> + "We had plenty of strength now, and were not long in getting down a couple + of planks. The first thing was to make a regular overhaul of the cargo—as + well as we could do it, without shifting things and making a noise—to + look for weapons or for anything that would come in handy for the fight. + Not a thing could we find, but we came upon a lot of kegs that we knew, by + their feel, were powder. If there had been arms and we could have got up, + we should have done it at once, trusting to seize the ship before the + other could come up to her help. But without arms it would be madness to + try in broad daylight, and we agreed to wait till night, and to lie down + again where we were before, putting the ropes round our legs again and our + hands behind our backs, so that, if they did look in, everything should + seem secure. + </p> + <p> + "'We shall have plenty of time,' one of the sailors said, 'for they have + coiled a big hawser down on the hatch.' + </p> + <p> + "When we got back to our lazaret, we tried the hatch by which we had been + shoved down, but the three of us couldn't move it any more than if it had + been solid stone. We had a goodish talk over it, and it was clear that the + hatchway of the main hold was our only chance of getting out; and we might + find that a tough job. + </p> + <p> + "'If we can't do it in any other way,' Pettigrew said, 'I should say we + had best bring enough bales and things to fill this place up to within a + foot of the top; then on that we might put a keg of powder, bore a hole in + it, and make a slow match that would blow the cabin overhead into + splinters, while the bales underneath it would prevent the force of the + explosion blowing her bottom out.' + </p> + <p> + "We agreed that, if the worst came to the worst, we would try this, and + having settled that, went back to have a look at the main hatch. Feeling + about round it, we found the points of the staple on which the hatchway + bar worked above; they were not fastened with nuts as they would have been + with us, but were simply turned over and clinched. We had no means of + straightening them out, but we could cut through the woodwork round them. + Setting to work at that, we took it by turns till we could see the light + through the wood; then we left it to finish after dark. All this time we + knew we were under sail by the rippling of the water along the sides. The + men on board were evidently in high delight at their easy capture, and + kicked up so much noise that there was no fear of their hearing any slight + stir we made below. + </p> + <p> + "Very carefully we brought packages and bales under the hatchway, till we + built up a sort of platform about four feet below it. We reckoned that, + standing as thick as we could there, and all lifting together, we could + make sure of hoisting the hatchway up, and could then spring out in a + moment. + </p> + <p> + "Pettigrew still stuck to his plan, and talked us into carrying it out, + both under the fore and aft hatches, pointing out that the two explosions + would scare the crew out of their wits, that some would be killed, and + many jump overboard in their fright. We came to see that the scheme was + really a good one, so set all the crew to carry out the business, and + they, working with stockinged feet, built up a platform under their hatch, + as well as in our den aft. Then we made holes in two of the kegs of + powder, and, shaking a little out, damped it, and rubbed it into two + strips of cotton. Putting an end of a slow match into each of the holes, + we laid the kegs in their places and waited. + </p> + <p> + "We made two other fuses, so that a man could go forward, and another aft, + to fire them both together. Two of the men were told off for this job, and + the rest of us gathered under the main hatch, for we had settled now that + if we heard them making any move to open the hatches we would fire the + powder at once, whatever hour it was. In order to be ready, we cut deeper + into the woodwork round the staple till there was but the thickness of a + card remaining, and we could tell by this how light it was above. + </p> + <p> + "It don't take long to tell you, but all this had taken us a good many + hours; and so baked were we by the heat down below, and parched by thirst, + that it was as much as I could do to persuade the men to wait until + nightfall. At last we saw the light in the cut fade and darken. Again the + men wanted to be at work, but I pointed out that if we waited till the + crew had laid down on the deck, we might carry it through without losing a + life, but if they were all awake, some of them would be sure to come at us + with their weapons, and, unarmed as we were, might do us much harm. Still, + though I succeeded in keeping the men quiet, I felt it was hard work to + put a stopper on my own impatience. + </p> + <p> + "At last even John here spoke up for action. + </p> + <p> + "'I expect those who mean to sleep are off by this time,' he said. 'As to + reckoning upon them all going off, there ain't no hope of it; they will + sit and jabber all night. They have made a good haul, and have taken a + stout ship with a full hold, and five-and-twenty stout slaves, and that + without losing a man. There won't be any sleep for most of them. I reckon + it is two bells now. I do think, Captain, we might as well begin, for + human nature can't stand this heat and thirst much longer.' + </p> + <p> + "'All right, John,' I said. 'Now, lads, remember that when the first + explosion comes—for we can't reckon on the two slow matches burning + just the same time—we all heave together till we find the hatch + lifts; then, when the second comes, we chuck it over and leap out. If you + see a weapon, catch it up, but don't waste time looking about, but go at + them with your fists. They will be scared pretty well out of their senses, + and you will not be long before you all get hold of weapons of some sort. + Now, Pettigrew, shove your blade up through the wood and cut round the + staple. Now, Jack Brown, get out that tinder-box you said you had about + you, and get a spark going.' + </p> + <p> + "Three or four clicks were heard as the sailor struck his flint against + the steel lid of the tinder-box. + </p> + <p> + "'All right, yer honour,' he said, 'I have got the spark.' + </p> + <p> + "Then the two hands we had given the slow matches to, lit them at the + tinder-box, and went fore and aft, while as many of the rest of us as + could crowded under the hatch. + </p> + <p> + "'Are you ready, fore and aft?' I asked. + </p> + <p> + "The two men hailed in reply. + </p> + <p> + "'Light the matches, then, and come here.' + </p> + <p> + "I suppose it was not above a minute, but it seemed ten before there was a + tremendous explosion aft. The ship shook from stem to stern. There was a + moment's silence, and then came yells and screams mixed with the sound of + timbers and wreckage falling on the deck. + </p> + <p> + "'Now lift,' I said. 'But not too high. That is enough—she is free. + Wait for the other.' + </p> + <p> + "There was a rush of feet overhead as the Moors ran forward. Then came the + other explosion. + </p> + <p> + "'Off with her, lads!' I shouted, and in a moment we flung the hatch off + and leapt out with a cheer. There was no fighting to speak of. The + officers had been killed by the first explosion under their cabin, and + many of the men had either been blown overboard or lay crushed under the + timber and wreckage. + </p> + <p> + "The second explosion had been even more destructive, for it happened just + as the crew, in their terror, had rushed forward. Many of those unhurt had + sprung overboard at once, and as we rushed up most of the others did the + same. There was no difficulty about arms, for the deck was strewn with + weapons. Few of us, however, stopped to pick one up, but, half mad with + rage and thirst, rushed forward at the Moors. That finished them; and + before we got to them the last had sprung overboard. There was a rush on + the part of the men to the scuttle butt. + </p> + <p> + "'Take one drink, lads,' I shouted, 'and then to the buckets.' + </p> + <p> + "It took us a quarter of an hour's hard work to put out the flames, and it + was lucky the powder had blown so much of the decks up that we were + enabled to get at the fire without difficulty, and so extinguish it before + it got any great hold. + </p> + <p> + "As soon as we had got it out I called a muster. There was only one + missing;—it was Pettigrew, he being the first to leap out and rush + aft. There had been but one shot fired by the Moors. One fellow, as he + leapt on to the rail, drew his pistol from his belt and fired before he + sprang overboard. In the excitement and confusion no one had noticed + whether the shot took effect, for two or three men had stumbled and fallen + over fragments of timber or bodies as we rushed aft. But now we searched, + and soon came on the poor young fellow. The ball had struck him fair on + the forehead, and he had fallen dead without a word or a cry. + </p> + <p> + "There was, however, no time to grieve. We had got to re-capture the + barque, which had been but a cable's length away when we rushed on deck; + while we had been fighting the fire she had sailed on, regardless of the + shrieks and shouts of the wretches who had sprung overboard from us. But + she was still near us; both vessels had been running before the wind, for + I had sent John Wilkes to the tiller the moment that we got possession of + the corsair, and the barque was but about a quarter of a mile ahead. + </p> + <p> + "The wind was light, and we were running along at four knots an hour. The + Moors on board the <i>Kate</i> had, luckily, been too scared by the + explosion to think of getting one of the guns aft and peppering us while + we were engaged in putting out the fire; and indeed, they could not have + done us much harm if they had, for the high fo'castle hid us from their + view. + </p> + <p> + "As soon as we had found Pettigrew's body and laid it on the hatch we had + thrown off, I went aft to John. + </p> + <p> + "'Are we gaining on her, John?' + </p> + <p> + "'No; she has drawn away a little. But this craft is not doing her best. I + expect they wanted to keep close to the barque, and so kept her sheets in. + If you square the sails, captain, we shall soon be upon her.' + </p> + <p> + "That was quickly done, and then the first thing was to see that the men + were all armed. We could have got a gun forward, but I did not want to + damage the <i>Kate</i>, and we could soon see that we were closing on her. + We shoved a bag of musket-balls into each cannon, so as to sweep her decks + as we came alongside, for we knew that her crew was a good deal stronger + than we were. Still, no one had any doubt as to the result, and it was + soon evident that the Moors had got such a scare from the fate of their + comrades that they had no stomach for fighting. + </p> + <p> + "'They are lowering the boats,' John shouted. + </p> + <p> + "'All the better,' I said. 'They would fight like rats caught in a trap if + we came up to them, and though we are men enough to capture her, we might + lose half our number.' + </p> + <p> + "As soon as the boats reached the water they were all pulled up to the + starboard side, and then the helm was put down, and the barque came round + till she was broadside on to us. + </p> + <p> + "'Down with your helm, John Wilkes!' I shouted. 'Hard down, man!' + </p> + <p> + "John hesitated, for he had thought that I should have gone round to the + other side of her and so have caught all the boats; but, in truth, I was + so pleased at the thought of getting the craft back again that I was + willing to let the poor villains go, since they were of a mind to do so + without giving us trouble. We had punished them enough, and the shrieks + and cries of those left behind to drown were ringing in my ears then. So + we brought the corsair up quietly by the side of the <i>Kate</i>, lashed + her there, and then, with a shout of triumph, sprang on board the old + barky. + </p> + <p> + "Not a Moor was left on board. The boats were four or five hundred yards + away, rowing at the top of their speed. The men would have run to the + guns, but I shouted,— + </p> + <p> + "'Let them go, lads. We have punished them heavily enough; we have taken + their ship, and sent half of them to Eternity. Let them take the tale back + to Tunis how a British merchantman re-captured their ship. Now set to work + to get some of the sail off both craft, and then, when we have got things + snug, we will splice the main brace and have a meal.' + </p> + <p> + "There is no more to tell. We carried the rover into Gibraltar and sold + her and her cargo there. It brought in a good round sum, and, except for + the death of Pettigrew, we had no cause to regret the corsair having taken + us by surprise that night off Pantellaria." + </p> + <p> + "That was an exciting business, indeed, Captain Dave," Cyril said, when + the Captain brought his story to a conclusion. "If it had not been for + your good fortune in finding those kegs of powder, and Pettigrew's idea of + using them as he did, you and John might now, if you had been alive, have + been working as slaves among the Moors." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, lad. And not the least lucky thing was that Pettigrew's knife and + Jack Brown's tinder-box had escaped the notice of the Moors. Jack had it + in an inside pocket sewn into his shirt so as to keep it dry. It was a + lesson to me, and for the rest of the time I was at sea I always carried a + knife, with a lanyard round my neck, and stowed away in an inside pocket + of my shirt, together with a tinder-box. They are two as useful things as + a sailor can have about him, for, if cast upon a desert shore after a + wreck, a man with a knife and tinder-box may make shift to live, when, + without them, he and his comrades might freeze to death." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX — THE FIRE IN THE SAVOY + </h2> + <p> + The next evening John Wilkes returned after an absence of but half an + hour. + </p> + <p> + "Why, John, you can but have smoked a single pipe! Did you not find your + cronies there?" + </p> + <p> + "I hurried back, Captain, because a man from one of the ships in the Pool + landed and said there was a great light in the sky, and that it seemed to + him it was either a big fire in the Temple, or in one of the mansions + beyond the walls; so methought I would come in and ask Cyril if he would + like to go with me to see what was happening." + </p> + <p> + "I should like it much, John. I saw a great fire in Holborn just after I + came over from France, and a brave sight it was, though very terrible; and + I would willingly see one again." + </p> + <p> + He took his hat and cloak and was about to be off, when Captain Dave + called after him,— + </p> + <p> + "Buckle on your sword, lad, and leave your purse behind you. A fire ever + attracts thieves and cut-throats, who flock round in hopes of stealing + something in the confusion. Besides, as I have told you before, you should + never go out after dark without your sword, even were it but to cross the + road." + </p> + <p> + Cyril ran upstairs to his room, buckled on his weapon, and ran down again. + </p> + <p> + "The Captain is right," John Wilkes said, as he joined him at the door. + "After your two adventures, it would be folly for you to go out unarmed." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I expect they have forgotten about me long ago," Cyril laughed + lightly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," John Wilkes said seriously. "As to Marner's gang, I think + that there is not much fear from them, unless that young rascal Robert and + the scoundrel who was with him have returned from Holland; and that they + are not likely to do for some time to come. But it would not be in human + nature if the man you call John Harvey should take his defeat without + trying to pay you back for that wound you gave him, for getting Mistress + Nellie out of his hands, and for making him the laughing-stock of his + comrades. I tell you that there is scarce an evening that I have gone out + but some fellow passes me before I have gone twenty yards, and, as he + brushes my sleeve, turns his head to look at me. But yesternight I said to + one who so behaved, 'Look here, mate, this is not the first time you have + run against me. I warn you that if it happens again I will crack your head + with my cudgel.' The fellow went off, muttering and grumbling, but I have + no doubt that he and the others, for it certainly was not always the same + man, were watching for you. To-night there was no one about, or, if there + was, he did not come near me, and it may be that, finding you never leave + the house after nightfall, they have decided to give it up for the + present. But I thought I heard a footfall lower down the street, just as + we came out of the house, and it is like enough that we are followed now." + </p> + <p> + "At any rate, they would scarce attack two of us, John, and I should not + mind if they did. It is a stab in the back that I am afraid of more than + an open quarrel." + </p> + <p> + "You may have a better swordsman to deal with next time. The fellow + himself would scarcely care to cross swords with you again, but he would + have no difficulty in getting half-a-dozen cut-throats from the purlieus + of the Temple or Westminster, professional bullies, who are ready to use + their swords to those who care to purchase them, and who would cut a + throat for a few crowns, without caring a jot whose throat it was. Some of + these fellows are disbanded soldiers. Some are men who were ruined in the + wars. Some are tavern bullies—broken men, reckless and quarrelsome + gamblers so long as they have a shilling in their pockets, but equally + ready to take to the road or to rob a house when their pockets are empty." + </p> + <p> + By this time they had passed the Exchange into Cheapside. Many people were + hurrying in the same direction and wondering where the fire was. Presently + one of the Fire Companies, with buckets, ladders, and axes, passed them at + a run. Even in Cheapside the glow in the sky ahead could be plainly seen, + but it was not until they passed St. Paul's and stood at the top of + Ludgate Hill that the flames, shooting up high in the air, were visible. + They were almost straight ahead. + </p> + <p> + "It must be at the other end of Fleet Street," Cyril said, as they broke + into a run. + </p> + <p> + "Farther than that, lad. It must be one of the mansions along the Strand. + A fire always looks closer than it is. I have seen a ship in flames that + looked scarce a mile away, and yet, sailing with a brisk wind, it took us + over an hour to come up to it." + </p> + <p> + The crowd became thicker as they approached Temple Bar. The upper windows + of the houses were all open, and women were leaning out looking at the + sight. From every lane and alley men poured into the street and swelled + the hurrying current. They passed through the Bar, expecting to find that + the fire was close at hand. They had, however, some distance farther to + go, for the fire was at a mansion in the Savoy. Another Fire Company came + along when they were within a hundred yards of the spot. + </p> + <p> + "Join in with them," Cyril said; and he and John Wilkes managed to push + their way into the ranks, joining in the shout, "Way there, way! Make room + for the buckets!" + </p> + <p> + Aided by some of the City watch the Company made its way through the + crowd, and hurried down the hill from the Strand into the Savoy. A party + of the King's Guard, who had just marched up, kept back the crowd, and, + when once in the open space, Cyril and his companion stepped out from the + ranks and joined a group of people who had arrived before the constables + and soldiers had come up. + </p> + <p> + The mansion from which the fire had originated was in flames from top to + bottom. The roof had fallen in. Volumes of flame and sparks shot high into + the air, threatening the safety of several other houses standing near. The + Fire Companies were working their hand-pumps, throwing water on to the + doors and woodwork of these houses. Long lines of men were extended down + to the edge of the river and passed the buckets backwards and forwards. + City officials, gentlemen of the Court, and officers of the troops, moved + to and fro shouting directions and superintending the work. From many of + the houses the inhabitants were bringing out their furniture and goods, + aided by the constables and spectators. + </p> + <p> + "It is a grand sight," Cyril said, as, with his companion, he took his + place in a quiet corner where a projecting portico threw a deep shadow. + </p> + <p> + "It will soon be grander still. The wind is taking the sparks and flames + westwards, and nothing can save that house over there. Do you see the + little jets of flame already bursting through the roof?" + </p> + <p> + "The house seems empty. There is not a window open." + </p> + <p> + "It looks so, Cyril, but there may be people asleep at the back. Let us + work round and have a look from behind." + </p> + <p> + They turned down an alley, and in a minute or two came out behind the + house. There was a garden and some high trees, but it was surrounded by a + wall, and they could not see the windows. + </p> + <p> + "Here, Cyril, I will give you a hoist up. If you stand on my shoulders, + you can reach to the top of the wall and pull yourself up. Come along here + to where that branch projects over. That's it. Now drop your cloak, and + jump on to my back. That is right. Now get on to my shoulders." + </p> + <p> + Cyril managed to get up. + </p> + <p> + "I can just touch the top, but I can't get my fingers on to it." + </p> + <p> + "Put your foot on my head. I will warrant it is strong enough to bear your + weight." + </p> + <p> + Cyril did as he was told, grasped the top of the wall, and, after a sharp + struggle, seated himself astride on it. Just as he did so, a window in a + wing projecting into the garden was thrown open, and a female voice + uttered a loud scream for help. There was light enough for Cyril to see + that the lower windows were all barred. He shouted back,— + </p> + <p> + "Can't you get down the staircase?" + </p> + <p> + "No; the house is full of smoke. There are some children here. Help! + Help!" and the voice rose in a loud scream again. + </p> + <p> + Cyril dropped down into the roadway by the side of John Wilkes. + </p> + <p> + "There are some women and children in there, John. They can't get out. We + must go round to the other side and get some axes and break down the + door." + </p> + <p> + Snatching up his cloak, he ran at full speed to his former position, + followed by Wilkes. The roof of the house was now in flames. Many of the + shutters and window-frames had also caught fire, from the heat. He ran up + to two gentlemen who seemed to be directing the operations. + </p> + <p> + "There are some women and children in a room at the back of that house," + he said. "I have just been round there to see. They are in the second + storey, and are crying for help." + </p> + <p> + "I fear the ladders are too short." + </p> + <p> + "I can tie two or three of them together," Wilkes said. "I am an old + sailor and can answer for the knots." + </p> + <p> + The firemen were already dashing water on the lower windows of the front + of the house. A party with axes were cutting at the door, but this was so + massive and solid that it resisted their efforts. One of the gentlemen + went down to them. At his orders eight or ten men seized ladders. Cyril + snatched some ropes from a heap that had been thrown down by the firemen, + and the party, with one of the gentlemen, ran round to the back of the + house. Two ladders were placed against the wall. John Wilkes, running up + one of them, hauled several of the others up, and lowered them into the + garden. + </p> + <p> + The flames were now issuing from some of the upper windows. Cyril dropped + from the wall into the garden, and, running close up to the house, shouted + to three or four women, who were screaming loudly, and hanging so far out + that he thought they would fall, that help was at hand, and that they + would be speedily rescued. John Wilkes rapidly tied three of the short + ladders together. These were speedily raised, but it was found that they + just reached the window. One of the firemen ran up, while John set to work + to prepare another long ladder. As there was no sign of life at any other + window he laid it down on the grass when finished. + </p> + <p> + "If you will put it up at the next window," Cyril said, "I will mount it. + The woman said there were children in the house, and possibly I may find + them. Those women are so frightened that they don't know what they are + doing." + </p> + <p> + One woman had already been got on to the other ladder, but instead of + coming down, she held on tightly, screaming at the top of her voice, until + the fireman with great difficulty got up by her side, wrenched her hands + from their hold, threw her across his shoulder, and carried her down. + </p> + <p> + The room was full of smoke as Cyril leapt into it, but he found that it + was not, as he had supposed, the one in which the women at the next window + were standing. Near the window, however, an elderly woman was lying on the + floor insensible, and three girls of from eight to fourteen lay across + her. Cyril thrust his head out of the window. + </p> + <p> + "Come up, John," he shouted. "I want help." + </p> + <p> + He lifted the youngest of the girls, and as he got her out of the window, + John's head appeared above the sill. + </p> + <p> + "Take her down quick, John," he said, as he handed the child to him. + "There are three others. They are all insensible from the smoke." + </p> + <p> + Filling his lungs with fresh air, he turned into the blinding smoke again, + and speedily reappeared at the window with another of the girls. John was + not yet at the bottom; he placed her with her head outside the window, and + was back with the eldest girl by the time Wilkes was up again. He handed + her to him, and then, taking the other, stepped out on to the ladder and + followed Wilkes down. + </p> + <p> + "Brave lad!" the gentleman said, patting him on the shoulder. "Are there + any more of them?" + </p> + <p> + "One more—a woman, sir. Do you go up, John. I will follow, for I + doubt whether I can lift her by myself." + </p> + <p> + He followed Wilkes closely up the ladder. There was a red glow now in the + smoke. Flames were bursting through the door. John was waiting at the + window. + </p> + <p> + "Which way, lad? There is no seeing one's hand in the smoke." + </p> + <p> + "Just in front, John, not six feet away. Hold your breath." + </p> + <p> + They dashed forward together, seized the woman between them, and, dragging + her to the window, placed her head and shoulders on the sill. + </p> + <p> + "You go first, John. She is too heavy for me," Cyril gasped. + </p> + <p> + John stumbled out, half suffocated, while Cyril thrust his head as far as + he could outside the window. + </p> + <p> + "That is it, John; you take hold of her shoulder, and I will help you get + her on to your back." + </p> + <p> + Between them they pushed her nearly out, and then, with Cyril's + assistance, John got her across his shoulders. She was a heavy woman, and + the old sailor had great difficulty in carrying her down. Cyril hung far + out of the window till he saw him put his foot on the ground; then he + seized a rung of the ladder, swung himself out on to it, and was soon + down. + </p> + <p> + For a time he felt confused and bewildered, and was conscious that if he + let go the ladder he should fall. He heard a voice say, "Bring one of + those buckets of water," and directly afterwards, "Here, lad, put your + head into this," and a handful of water was dashed into his face. It + revived him, and, turning round, he plunged his head into a bucket that a + man held up for him. Then he took a long breath or two, pressed the water + from his hair, and felt himself again. The women at the other window had + by this time been brought down. A door in the garden wall had been broken + down with axes, and the women and girls were taken away to a neighbouring + house. + </p> + <p> + "There is nothing more to do here," the gentlemen said. "Now, men, you are + to enter the houses round about. Wherever a door is fastened, break it in. + Go out on to the roofs with buckets, put out the sparks as fast as they + fall. I will send some more men to help you at once." He then put his hand + on Cyril's shoulder, and walked back with him to the open space. + </p> + <p> + "We have saved them all," he said to the other gentleman who had now come + up, "but it has been a close touch, and it was only by the gallantry of + this young gentleman and another with him that the lives of three girls + and a woman were rescued. I think all the men that can be spared had + better go round to the houses in that direction. You see, the wind is + setting that way, and the only hope of stopping the progress of the fire + is to get plenty of men with buckets out on the roofs and at all the upper + windows." + </p> + <p> + The other gentleman gave the necessary orders to an officer. + </p> + <p> + "Now, young sir, may I ask your name?" the other said to Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "Cyril Shenstone, sir," he replied respectfully; for he saw that the two + men before him were persons of rank. + </p> + <p> + "Shenstone? I know the name well. Are you any relation of Sir Aubrey + Shenstone?" + </p> + <p> + "He was my father, sir." + </p> + <p> + "A brave soldier, and a hearty companion," the other said warmly. "He rode + behind me scores of times into the thick of the fight. I am Prince Rupert, + lad." + </p> + <p> + Cyril doffed his hat in deep respect. His father had always spoken of the + Prince in terms of boundless admiration, and had over and over again + lamented that he had not been able to join the Prince in his exploits at + sea. + </p> + <p> + "What has become of my old friend?" the Prince asked. + </p> + <p> + "He died six months ago, Prince." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry to hear it. I did hear that, while I was away, he had been + suing at Court. I asked for him, but could get no tidings of his + whereabouts. But we cannot speak here. Ask for me to-morrow at Whitehall. + Do you know this gentleman?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir, I have not the honour." + </p> + <p> + "This is the Duke of Albemarle, my former enemy, but now my good friend. + You will like the lad no worse, my Lord, because his father more than once + rode with me into the heart of your ranks." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not," the Duke said. "It is clear that the son will be as + gallant a gentleman as his father was before him, and, thank God! it is + not against Englishmen that he will draw his sword. You may count me as + your friend, sir, henceforth." + </p> + <p> + Cyril bowed deeply and retired, while Prince Rupert and the Duke hurried + away again to see that the operations they had directed were properly + carried out. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X — HOW JOHN WILKES FOUGHT THE DUTCH + </h2> + <p> + After leaving Prince Rupert, Cyril returned to John Wilkes, who was + standing a short distance away. + </p> + <p> + "John! John!" he said eagerly, as he joined him. "Who do you think those + gentlemen are?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, lad. It is easy to see that they are men of importance by + the way they order everyone about." + </p> + <p> + "The one who went with us to the garden is Prince Rupert; the other is the + Duke of Albemarle. And the Prince has told me to call upon him to-morrow + at Whitehall." + </p> + <p> + "That is a stroke of luck, indeed, lad, and right glad am I that I took it + into my head to fetch you out to see the fire. But more than that, you + have to thank yourself, for, indeed, you behaved right gallantly. You + nearly had the Prince for your helper, for just before I went up the + ladder the last time he stepped forward and said to me, 'You must be + well-nigh spent, man. I will go up this time.' However, I said that I + would finish the work, and so, without more ado, I shook off the hand he + had placed on my arm, and ran up after you. Well, it is a stroke of good + fortune to you, lad, that you should have shown your courage under his eye—no + one is more able to appreciate a gallant action. This may help you a long + way towards bringing about the aim you were talking about the other night, + and I may live to see you Sir Cyril Shenstone yet." + </p> + <p> + "You can see me that now," Cyril said, laughing. "My father was a baronet, + and therefore at his death I came into the title, though I am not silly + enough to go about the City as Sir Cyril Shenstone when I am but a poor + clerk. It will be time enough to call myself 'Sir' when I see some chance + of buying back our estate, though, indeed, I have thought of taking the + title again when I embark on foreign service, as it may help me somewhat + in obtaining promotion. But do not say anything about it at home. I am + Cyril Shenstone, and have been fortunate enough to win the friendship of + Captain Dave, and I should not be so comfortable were there any change + made in my position in the family. A title is an empty thing, John, unless + there are means to support it, and plain Cyril Shenstone suits my position + far better than a title without a guinea in my purse. Indeed, till you + spoke just now, I had well-nigh forgotten that I have the right to call + myself 'Sir.'" + </p> + <p> + They waited for two hours longer. At the end of that time four mansions + had been burnt to the ground, but the further progress of the flames had + been effectually stayed. The crowd had already begun to scatter, and as + they walked eastward the streets were full of people making their way + homeward. The bell of St. Paul's was striking midnight as they entered. + The Captain and his family had long since gone off to bed. + </p> + <p> + "This reminds one of that last business," John whispered, as they went + quietly upstairs. + </p> + <p> + "It does, John. But it has been a pleasanter evening in every way than + those fruitless watches we kept in the street below." + </p> + <p> + The next morning the story of the fire was told, and excited great + interest. + </p> + <p> + "Who were the girls you saved, Cyril?" Nellie asked. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know. I did not think of asking to whom the house belonged, nor, + indeed, was there anyone to ask. Most of the people were too busy to talk + to, and the rest were spectators who had, like ourselves, managed to make + their way in through the lines of the soldiers and watch." + </p> + <p> + "Were they ladies?" + </p> + <p> + "I really don't know," Cyril laughed. "The smoke was too thick to see + anything about them, and I should not know them if I met them to-day; and, + besides, when you only see a young person in her nightdress, it is hard to + form any opinion as to her rank." + </p> + <p> + Nellie joined in the laugh. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose not, Cyril. It might make a difference to you, though. Those + houses in the Savoy are almost all the property of noblemen, and you might + have gained another powerful friend if they had been the daughters of + one." + </p> + <p> + "I should not think they were so," Cyril said. "There seemed to be no one + else in the house but three maid servants and the woman who was in the + room with them. I should say the family were all away and the house left + in charge of servants. The woman may have been a housekeeper, and the + girls her children; besides, even had it been otherwise, it was merely by + chance that I helped them out. It was John who tied the ladders together + and who carried the girls down, one by one. If I had been alone I should + only have had time to save the youngest, for I am not accustomed to + running up and down ladders, as he is, and by the time I had got her down + it would have been too late to have saved the others. Indeed, I am not + sure that we did save them; they were all insensible, and, for aught I + know, may not have recovered from the effects of the smoke. My eyes are + smarting even now." + </p> + <p> + "And so you are to see Prince Rupert to-day, Cyril?" Captain Dave said. "I + am afraid we shall be losing you, for he will, I should say, assuredly + appoint you to one of his ships if you ask him." + </p> + <p> + "That would be good fortune indeed," Cyril said. "I cannot but think + myself that he may do so, though it would be almost too good to be true. + Certainly he spoke very warmly, and, although he may not himself have the + appointment of his officers, a word from him at the Admiralty would, no + doubt, be sufficient. At any rate, it is a great thing indeed to have so + powerful a friend at Court. It may be that, at the end of another two + years, we may be at war with some other foreign power, and that I may be + able to enter our own army instead of seeking service abroad. If not, much + as I should like to go to sea to fight against the Dutch, service in this + Fleet would be of no real advantage to me, for the war may last but for a + short time, and as soon as it is over the ships will be laid up again and + the crews disbanded." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, but if you find the life of a sailor to your liking, Cyril, you might + do worse than go into the merchant service. I could help you there, and + you might soon get the command of a trader. And, let me tell you, it is a + deal better to walk the decks as captain than it is to be serving on shore + with twenty masters over you; and there is money to be made, too. A + captain is always allowed to take in a certain amount of cargo on his own + account; that was the way I scraped together money enough to buy my own + ship at last, and to be master as well as owner, and there is no reason + why you should not do the same." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Captain Dave. I will think it over when I find out whether I + like a sea life, but at present it seems to me that my inclinations turn + rather towards the plan that my father recommended, and that, for the last + two years, I have always had before me. You said, the other day, you had + fought the Dutch, John?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, Master Cyril; but, in truth, it was from no wish or desire on my + part that I did so. I had come ashore from Captain Dave's ship here in the + Pool, and had been with some of my messmates who had friends in Wapping + and had got three days' leave ashore, as the cargo we expected had not + come on board the ship. We had kept it up a bit, and it was latish when I + was making my way down to the stairs. I expect that I was more intent on + making a straight course down the street than in looking about for + pirates, when suddenly I found myself among a lot of men. One of them + seized me by the arm. + </p> + <p> + "'Hands off, mate!' says I, and I lifted my fist to let fly at him, when I + got a knock at the back of the head. The next thing I knew was, I was + lying in the hold of a ship, and, as I made out presently, with a score of + others, some of whom were groaning, and some cursing. + </p> + <p> + "'Hullo, mates!' says I. 'What port is this we are brought up in?' + </p> + <p> + "'We are on board the <i>Tartar</i>,' one said. + </p> + <p> + "I knew what that meant, for the <i>Tartar</i> was the receiving hulk + where they took the pressed men. + </p> + <p> + "The next morning, without question asked, we were brought up on deck, + tumbled into a small sloop, and taken down to Gravesend, and there put, in + batches of four or five, into the ships of war lying there. It chanced + that I was put on board Monk's flagship the <i>Resolution</i>. And that is + how it was I came to fight the Dutch." + </p> + <p> + "What year was that in, John?" + </p> + <p> + "'53—in May it was. Van Tromp, at that time, with ninety-eight ships + of war, and six fire-ships, was in the Downs, and felt so much Master of + the Sea that he sailed in and battered Dover Castle." + </p> + <p> + "Then you were in the fight of the 2nd of June?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay; and in that of the 31st of July, which was harder still." + </p> + <p> + "Tell me all about it, John." + </p> + <p> + "Lor' bless you, sir, there is nothing to tell as far as I was concerned. + I was at one of the guns on the upper deck, but I might as well have been + down below for anything I saw of it. It was just load and fire, load and + fire. Sometimes, through the clouds of smoke, one caught a sight of the + Dutchman one was firing at; more often one didn't. There was no time for + looking about, I can tell you, and if there had been time there was + nothing to see. It was like being in a big thunderstorm, with thunderbolts + falling all round you, and a smashing and a grinding and a ripping that + would have made your hair stand on end if you had only had time to think + of it. But we hadn't time. It was 'Now then, my hearties, blaze away! Keep + it up, lads! The Dutchmen have pretty near had enough of it!' And then, at + last, 'They are running, lads. Run in your guns, and tend the sails.' And + then a cheer as loud as we could give—which wasn't much, I can tell + you, for we were spent with labour, and half choked with powder, and our + tongues parched up with thirst." + </p> + <p> + "How many ships had you?" + </p> + <p> + "We had ninety-five war-ships, and five fire-ships, so the game was an + equal one. They had Tromp and De Ruyter to command them, and we had Monk + and Deane. Both Admirals were on board our ship, and in the very first + broadside the Dutch fired a chain-shot, and pretty well cut Admiral Deane + in two. I was close to him at the time. Monk, who was standing by his + side, undid his own cloak in a moment, threw it over his comrade, and held + up his hand to the few of us that had seen what had happened, to take no + notice of it. + </p> + <p> + "It was a good thing that Deane and Monk were on board the same ship. If + it had not been so, Deane's flag would have been hauled down and all the + Fleet would have known of his death, which, at the commencement of the + fight, would have greatly discouraged the men. + </p> + <p> + "They told me, though I know naught about it, that Rear-Admiral Lawson + charged with the Blue Squadron right through the Dutch line, and so threw + them into confusion. However, about three o'clock, the fight having begun + at eleven, Van Tromp began to draw off, and we got more sail on the <i>Resolution</i> + and followed them for some hours, they making a sort of running fight of + it, till one of their big ships blew up, about nine in the evening, when + they laid in for shore. Blake came up in the night with eighteen ships. + The Dutch tried to draw off, but at eight o'clock we came up to them, and, + after fighting for four hours, they hauled off and ran, in great + confusion, for the flats, where we could not follow them, and so they + escaped to Zeeland. We heard that they had six of their best ships sunk, + two blown up and eleven taken, but whether it was so or not I knew not, + for, in truth, I saw nothing whatever of the matter. + </p> + <p> + "We sailed to the Texel, and there blocked in De Ruyter's squadron of + twenty-five large ships, and we thought that there would be no more + fighting, for the Dutch had sent to England to ask for terms of peace. + However, we were wrong, and, to give the Dutchmen their due, they showed + resolution greater than we gave them credit for, for we were astonished + indeed to hear, towards the end of July, that Van Tromp had sailed out + again with upwards of ninety ships. + </p> + <p> + "On the 29th they came in view, and we sailed out to engage them, but they + would not come to close quarters, and it was seven at night before the <i>Resolution</i>, + with some thirty other ships, came up to them and charged through their + line. By the time we had done that it was quite dark, and we missed them + altogether and sailed south, thinking Van Tromp had gone that way; but, + instead, he had sailed north, and in the morning we found he had picked up + De Ruyter's fleet, and was ready to fight. But we had other things to + think of besides fighting that day, for the wind blew so hard that it was + as much as we could do to keep off the shore, and if the gale had + continued a good part of the ships would have left their bones there. + However, by nightfall the gale abated somewhat, and by the next morning + the sea had gone down sufficient for the main deck ports to be opened. So + the Dutch, having the weather gauge, sailed down to engage us. + </p> + <p> + "I thought it rough work in the fight two months before, but it was as + nothing to this. To begin with, the Dutch fire-ships came down before the + wind, and it was as much as we could do to avoid them. They did, indeed, + set the <i>Triumph</i> on fire, and most of the crew jumped overboard; but + those that remained managed to put out the flames. + </p> + <p> + "Lawson, with the Blue Squadron, began the fighting, and that so briskly, + that De Ruyter's flagship was completely disabled and towed out of the + fight. However, after I had seen that, our turn began, and I had no more + time to look about. I only know that ship after ship came up to engage us, + seeming bent upon lowering Monk's flag. Three Dutch Admirals, Tromp, + Evertson, and De Ruyter, as I heard afterwards, came up in turn. We did + not know who they were, but we knew they were Admirals by their flags, and + pounded them with all our hearts; and so good was our aim that I myself + saw two of the Admirals' flags brought down, and they say that all three + of them were lowered. But you may guess the pounding was not all on our + side, and we suffered very heavily. + </p> + <p> + "Four men were hurt at the gun I worked, and nigh half the crew were + killed or wounded. Two of our masts were shot away, many of our guns + disabled, and towards the end of the fight we were towed out of the line. + How the day would have gone if Van Tromp had continued in command of the + Dutch, I cannot say, but about noon he was shot through the body by a + musket-ball, and this misfortune greatly discouraged the Dutchmen, who + fight well as long as things seem to be going their way, but lose heart + very easily when they think the matter is going against them. + </p> + <p> + "By about two o'clock the officers shouted to us that the Dutch were + beginning to draw off, and it was not long before they began to fly, each + for himself, and in no sort of order. Some of our light frigates, that had + suffered less than the line-of-battle ships, followed them until the one + Dutch Admiral whose flag was left flying, turned and fought them till two + or three of our heavier ships came up and he was sunk. + </p> + <p> + "We could see but little of the chase, having plenty of work, for, had a + gale come on, our ship, and a good many others, would assuredly have been + driven ashore, in the plight we were in. Anyhow, at night their ships got + into the Texel, and our vessels, which had been following them, anchored + five or six leagues out, being afraid of the sands. Altogether we had + burnt or sunk twenty-six of their ships of war, while we lost only two + frigates, both of which were burnt by their fire-ships. + </p> + <p> + "As it was certain that they would not come out for some time again, and + many of our ships being unfit for further contention until repaired, we + returned to England, and I got my discharge and joined Captain Dave again + a fortnight later, when his ship came up the river. + </p> + <p> + "Monk is a good fighter, Master Cyril, and should have the command of the + Fleet instead of, as they say, the Duke of York. Although he is called + General, and not Admiral, he is as good a sea-dog as any of them, and he + can think as well as fight. + </p> + <p> + "Among our ships that day were several merchantmen that had been taken up + for the service at the last moment and had guns slapped on board, with + gunners to work them. Some of them had still their cargoes in the hold, + and Monk, thinking that it was likely the captains would think more of + saving their ships and goods than of fighting the Dutch, changed the + captains all round, so that no man commanded his own vessel. And the + consequence was that, as all admitted, the merchantmen were as willing to + fight as any, and bore themselves right stoutly. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you think, Master Cyril, if you go with the Fleet, that you are + going to see much of what goes on. It will be worse for you than it was + for me, for there was I, labouring and toiling like a dumb beast, with my + mind intent upon working the gun, and paying no heed to the roar and + confusion around, scarce even noticing when one beside me was struck down. + You will be up on the poop, having naught to do but to stand with your + hand on your sword hilt, and waiting to board an enemy or to drive back + one who tries to board you. You will find that you will be well-nigh dazed + and stupid with the din and uproar." + </p> + <p> + "It does not sound a very pleasant outlook, John," Cyril laughed. + "However, if I ever do get into an engagement, I will think of what you + have said, and will try and prevent myself from getting either dazed or + stupid; though, in truth, I can well imagine that it is enough to shake + anyone's nerves to stand inactive in so terrible a scene." + </p> + <p> + "You will have to take great care of yourself, Cyril," Nellie said + gravely. + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave and John Wilkes both burst into a laugh. + </p> + <p> + "How is he to take care of himself, Nellie?" her father said. "Do you + suppose that a man on deck would be any the safer were he to stoop down + with his head below the rail, or to screw himself up on the leeward side + of a mast? No, no, lass; each man has to take his share of danger, and the + most cowardly runs just as great a risk as the man who fearlessly exposes + himself." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI — PRINCE RUPERT + </h2> + <p> + The next day Cyril went down to breakfast in what he had often called, + laughingly, his Court suit. This suit he had had made for him a short time + before his father's death, to replace the one he had when he came over, + that being altogether outgrown. He had done so to please Sir Aubrey, who + had repeatedly expressed his anxiety that Cyril should always be prepared + to take advantage of any good fortune that might befall him. This was the + first time he had put it on. + </p> + <p> + "Well, truly you look a pretty fellow, Cyril," the Captain said, as he + entered. "Don't you think so, Nellie?" + </p> + <p> + The girl nodded. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know that I like him better than in his black suit, father. But + he looks very well." + </p> + <p> + "Hullo, lass! This is a change of opinion, truly! For myself I care not + one jot for the fashion of a man's clothes, but I had thought that you + always inclined to gay attire, and Cyril now would seem rather to belong + to the Court than to the City." + </p> + <p> + "If it had been any other morning, father, I might have thought more of + Cyril's appearance; but what you were telling us but now of the + continuance of the Plague is so sad, that mourning, rather than Court + attire, would seem to be the proper wear." + </p> + <p> + "Is the Plague spreading fast, then, Captain Dave?" + </p> + <p> + "No; but it is not decreasing, as we had hoped it would do. From the + beginning of December the deaths rose steadily until the end of January. + While our usual death-rate is under three hundred it went to four hundred + and seventy-four. Then the weather setting in very severe checked it till + the end of February, and we all hoped that the danger was over, and that + we should be rid of the distemper before the warm weather set in; but for + the last fortnight there has been a rise rather than a fall—not a + large one, but sufficient to cause great alarm that it will continue until + warm weather sets in, and may then grow into terrible proportions. So far, + there has been no case in the City, and it is only in the West that it has + any hold, the deaths being altogether in the parishes of St. Giles's, St. + Andrew's, St. Bride's, and St. James's, Clerkenwell. Of course, there have + been cases now and then for many years past, and nine years ago it spread + to a greater extent than now, and were we at the beginning of winter + instead of nearing summer there would be no occasion to think much of the + matter; but, with the hot weather approaching, and the tales we hear of + the badness of the Plague in foreign parts one cannot but feel anxious." + </p> + <p> + "And they say, too, that there have been prophecies of grievous evils in + London," Nellie put in. + </p> + <p> + "We need not trouble about that," her father replied. "The Anabaptists + prophesied all sorts of evils in Elizabeth's time, but naught came of it. + There are always men and women with disordered minds, who think that they + are prophets, and have power to see further into the future than other + people, but no one minds them or thinks aught of their wild words save at + a time like the present, when there is a danger of war or pestilence. You + remember Bill Vokes, John?" + </p> + <p> + "I mind him, yer honour. A poor, half-crazed fellow he was, and yet a good + seaman, who would do his duty blow high or blow low. He sailed six voyages + with us, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "And never one of them without telling the crew that the ship would never + return to port. He had had dreams about it, and the black cat had mewed + when he left home, and he saw the three magpies in a tree hard by when he + stepped from the door, and many other portents of that kind. The first + time he well-nigh scared some of the crew, but after the first voyage—from + which we came back safely, of course—they did but laugh at him; and + as in all other respects he was a good sailor, and a willing fellow, I did + not like to discharge him, for, once the men found out that his prophecies + came to naught, they did no harm, and, indeed, they afforded them much + amusement. Just as it is on board a ship, so it is elsewhere. If our + vessel had gone down that first voyage, any man who escaped drowning would + have said that Bill Vokes had not been without reason in his warnings, and + that it was nothing less than flying in the face of Providence, to put to + sea when the loss of the ship had been so surely foretold. So, on shore, + the fools or madmen who have dreams and visions are not heeded when times + are good, and men's senses sound, whereas, in troubled times, men take + their ravings to heart. If all the scatterbrains had a good whipping at + the pillory it would be well, both for them and for the silly people who + pay attention to their ravings." + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later, Cyril took a boat to the Whitehall steps, and after + some delay was shown up to Prince Rupert's room. + </p> + <p> + "None the worse for your exertions yester-even, young gentleman, I hope?" + the Prince said, shaking hands with him warmly. + </p> + <p> + "None, sir. The exertion was not great, and it was but the inconvenience + of the smoke that troubled me in any way." + </p> + <p> + "Have you been to inquire after the young ladies who owe their lives to + you?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; I know neither their names nor their condition, nor, had I + wished it, could I have made inquiries, for I know not whither they were + taken." + </p> + <p> + "I sent round early this morning," the Prince said, "and heard that they + were as well as might be expected after the adventure they went through. + And now tell me about yourself, and what you have been doing. 'Tis one of + the saddest things to me, since I returned to England, that so many good + men who fought by my side have been made beggars in the King's service, + and that I could do naught for them. 'Tis a grievous business, and yet I + see not how it is to be mended. The hardest thing is, that those who did + most for the King's service are those who have suffered most deeply. None + of those who were driven to sell their estates at a fraction of their + value, in order to raise money for the King's treasury or to put men into + the field, have received any redress. It would need a vast sum to buy back + all their lands, and Parliament would not vote money for that purpose; nor + would it be fair to turn men out of the estates that they bought and paid + for. Do you not think so?" he asked suddenly, seeing, by the lad's face, + that he was not in agreement with him. + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; it does not seem to me that it would be unfair. These men bought + the lands for, as you say, but a fraction of their value; they did so in + the belief that Parliament would triumph, and their purchase was but a + speculation grounded on that belief. They have had the enjoyment of the + estates for years, and have drawn from them an income which has, by this + time, brought them in a sum much exceeding that which they have + adventured, and it does not seem to me that there would be any hardship + whatever were they now called upon to restore them to their owners. 'Tis + as when a man risks his money in a venture at sea. If all goes as he hopes + he will make a great profit on his money. If the ship is cast away or + taken by pirates, it is unfortunate, but he has no reason to curse his + ill-luck if the ship had already made several voyages which have more than + recouped the money he ventured." + </p> + <p> + "Well and stoutly argued!" the Prince said approvingly. "But you must + remember, young sir, that the King, on his return, was by no means + strongly seated on the throne. There was the Army most evilly affected + towards him; there were the Puritans, who lamented the upset of the work + they or their fathers had done. All those men who had purchased the + estates of the Royalists had families and friends, and, had these estates + been restored to their rightful owners, there might have been an outbreak + that would have shaken the throne again. Many would have refused to give + up possession, save to force; and where was the force to come from? Even + had the King had troops willing to carry out such a measure, they might + have been met by force, and had blood once been shed, none can say how the + trouble might have spread, or what might have been the end of it. And now, + lad, come to your own fortunes." + </p> + <p> + Cyril briefly related the story of his life since his return to London, + stating his father's plan that he should some day take foreign service. + </p> + <p> + "You have shown that you have a stout heart, young sir, as well as a brave + one, and have done well, indeed, in turning your mind to earn your living + by such talents as you have, rather than in wasting your time in vain + hopes and in ceaseless importunities for justice. It may be that you have + acted wisely in thinking of taking service on the Continent, seeing that + we have no Army; and when the time comes, I will further your wishes to + the utmost of my power. But in the meantime there is opportunity for + service at home, and I will gladly appoint you as a Volunteer in my own + ship. There are many gentlemen going with me in that capacity, and it + would be of advantage to you, if, when I write to some foreign prince on + your behalf, I can say that you have fought under my eye." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you greatly, Prince. I have been wishing, above all things, that I + could join the Fleet, and it would be, indeed, an honour to begin my + career under the Prince of whom I heard so often from my father." + </p> + <p> + Prince Rupert looked at his watch. + </p> + <p> + "The King will be in the Mall now," he said. "I will take you across and + present you to him. It is useful to have the <i>entrée</i> at Court, + though perhaps the less you avail yourself of it the better." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he rose, put on his hat, and, throwing his cloak over his + shoulder, went across to the Mall, asking questions of Cyril as he went, + and extracting from him a sketch of the adventure of his being kidnapped + and taken to Holland. + </p> + <p> + Presently they arrived at the spot where the King, with three or four + nobles and gentlemen, had been playing. Charles was in a good humour, for + he had just won a match with the Earl of Rochester. + </p> + <p> + "Well, my grave cousin," he said merrily, "what brings you out of your + office so early? No fresh demands for money, I hope?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at present. And indeed, it is not to you that I should come on such a + quest, but to the Duke of York." + </p> + <p> + "And he would come to me," said the King; "so it is the same thing." + </p> + <p> + "I have come across to present to your Majesty a very gallant young + gentleman, who yesterday evening, at the risk of his life, saved the three + daughters of the Earl of Wisbech from being burned at the fire in the + Savoy, where his Lordship's mansion was among those that were destroyed. I + beg to present to your Majesty Sir Cyril Shenstone, the son of the late + Sir Aubrey Shenstone, a most gallant gentleman, who rode under my banner + in many a stern fight in the service of your royal father." + </p> + <p> + "I knew him well," the King said graciously, "but had not heard of his + death. I am glad to hear that his son inherits his bravery. I have often + regretted deeply that it was out of my power to requite, in any way, the + services Sir Aubrey rendered, and the sacrifices he made for our House." + </p> + <p> + His brow clouded a little, and he looked appealingly at Prince Rupert. + </p> + <p> + "Sir Cyril Shenstone has no more intention of asking for favours than I + have, Charles," the latter said. "He is going to accompany me as a + Volunteer against the Dutch, and if the war lasts I shall ask for a better + appointment for him." + </p> + <p> + "That he shall have," the King said warmly. "None have a better claim to + commissions in the Navy and Army than sons of gentlemen who fought and + suffered in the cause of our royal father. My Lords," he said to the + little group of gentlemen, who had been standing a few paces away while + this conversation had been going on, "I would have you know Sir Cyril + Shenstone, the son of a faithful adherent of my father, and who, yesterday + evening, saved the lives of the three daughters of My Lord of Wisbech in + the fire at the Savoy. He is going as a Volunteer with my cousin Rupert + when he sails against the Dutch." + </p> + <p> + The gentlemen all returned Cyril's salute courteously. + </p> + <p> + "He will be fortunate in beginning his career under the eyes of so brave a + Prince," the Earl of Rochester said, bowing to Prince Rupert. + </p> + <p> + "It would be well if you all," the latter replied bluntly, "were to ship + in the Fleet for a few months instead of wasting your time in empty + pleasures." + </p> + <p> + The Earl smiled. Prince Rupert's extreme disapproval of the life at Court + was well known. + </p> + <p> + "We cannot all be Bayards, Prince, and most of us would, methinks, be too + sick at sea to be of much assistance, were we to go. But if the Dutchmen + come here, which is not likely—for I doubt not, Prince, that you + will soon send them flying back to their own ports—we shall all be + glad to do our best to meet them when they land." + </p> + <p> + The Prince made no reply, but, turning to the King, said,— + </p> + <p> + "We will not detain you longer from your game, Cousin Charles. I have + plenty to do, with all the complaints as to the state of the ships, and + the lack of stores and necessaries." + </p> + <p> + "Remember, I shall be glad to see you at my <i>levées</i>, Sir Cyril," the + King said, holding out his hand. "Do not wait for the Prince to bring you, + for if you do you will wait long." + </p> + <p> + Cyril doffed his hat, raised the King's hand to his lips, then, with a + deep bow and an expression of thanks, followed Prince Rupert, who was + already striding away. + </p> + <p> + "You might have been better introduced," the Prince said when he overtook + him. "Still it is better to be badly introduced than to have no + introduction at all. I am too old for the flippancies of the Court. You + had better show yourself there sometimes; you will make friends that may + be useful. By the way, I have not your address, and it may be a fortnight + or more before the <i>Henrietta</i> is ready to take her crew on board." + He took out his tablet and wrote down the address. "Come and see me if + there is anything you want to ask me. Do not let the clerks keep you out + with the pretence that I am busy, but send up your name to me, and tell + them that I have ordered it shall be taken up, however I may be engaged." + </p> + <p> + Having no occasion for haste, Cyril walked back to the City after leaving + Prince Rupert. A great change had taken place in his fortunes in the last + twenty-four hours. Then he had no prospects save continuing his work in + the City for another two years, and even after that time he foresaw grave + difficulties in the way of his obtaining a commission in a foreign army; + for Sir John Parton, even if ready to carry out the promise he had + formerly made him, might not have sufficient influence to do so. Now he + was to embark in Prince Rupert's own ship. He would be the companion of + many other gentlemen going out as Volunteers, and, at a bound, spring from + the position of a writer in the City to that occupied by his father before + he became involved in the trouble between King and Parliament. He was + already admitted to Court, and Prince Rupert himself had promised to push + his fortunes abroad. + </p> + <p> + And yet he felt less elated than he would have expected from his sudden + change. The question of money was the cloud that dulled the brightness of + his prospects. As a Volunteer he would receive no pay, and yet he must + make a fair show among the young noblemen and gentlemen who would be his + companions. Doubtless they would be victualled on board, but he would have + to dress well and probably pay a share in the expenses that would be + incurred for wine and other things on board. Had it not been for the + future he would have been inclined to regret that he had not refused the + tempting offer; but the advantages to be gained by Prince Rupert's + patronage were so large that he felt no sacrifice would be too great to + that end—even that of accepting the assistance that Captain Dave had + more than once hinted he should give him. It was just the dinner-hour when + he arrived home. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Cyril, I see by your face that the Prince has said nothing in the + direction of your wishes," Captain Dave said, as he entered. + </p> + <p> + "Then my face is a false witness, Captain Dave, for Prince Rupert has + appointed me a Volunteer on board his own ship." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad, indeed, lad, heartily glad, though your going will be a heavy + loss to us all. But why were you looking so grave over it?" + </p> + <p> + "I have been wondering whether I have acted wisely in accepting it," Cyril + said. "I am very happy here, I am earning my living, I have no cares of + any sort, and I feel that it is a very serious matter to make a change. + The Prince has a number of noblemen and gentlemen going with him as + Volunteers, and I feel that I shall be out of my element in such company. + At the same time I have every reason to be thankful, for Prince Rupert has + promised that he will, after the war is over, give me introductions which + will procure me a commission abroad." + </p> + <p> + "Well, then, it seems to me that things could not look better," Captain + Dave said heartily. "When do you go on board?" + </p> + <p> + "The Prince says it may be another fortnight; so that I shall have time to + make my preparations, and warn the citizens I work for, that I am going to + leave them." + </p> + <p> + "I should say the sooner the better, lad. You will have to get your outfit + and other matters seen to. Moreover, now that you have been taken under + Prince Rupert's protection, and have become, as it were, an officer on his + ship—for gentlemen Volunteers, although they have no duties in + regard to working the ship, are yet officers—it is hardly seemly + that you should be making up the accounts of bakers and butchers, + ironmongers, and ship's storekeepers." + </p> + <p> + "The work is honest, and I am in no way ashamed of it," Cyril said; "but + as I have many things to see about, I suppose I had better give them + notice at once. Prince Rupert presented me to the King to-day, and His + Majesty requested me to attend at Court, which I should be loath to do, + were it not that the Prince urged upon me that it was of advantage that I + should make myself known." + </p> + <p> + "One would think, Master Cyril, that this honour which has suddenly + befallen you is regarded by you as a misfortune," Mrs. Dowsett said, + laughing. "Most youths would be overjoyed at such a change in their + fortune." + </p> + <p> + "It would be all very pleasant," Cyril said, "had I the income of my + father's estate at my back; but I feel that I shall be in a false + position, thus thrusting myself among men who have more guineas in their + pockets than I have pennies. However, it seems that the matter has been + taken out of my own hands, and that, as things have turned out, so I must + travel. Who would have thought, when John Wilkes fetched me out last night + to go to the fire, it would make an alteration in my whole life, and that + such a little thing as climbing up a ladder and helping to get three girls + out of a room full of smoke—and John Wilkes did the most difficult + part of the work—was to change all my prospects?" + </p> + <p> + "There was a Providence in it, Cyril," Mrs. Dowsett said gently. "Why, + else, should you have gone up that ladder, when, to all seeming, there was + no one there. The maids were so frightened, John says, that they would + never have said a word about there being anyone in that room, and the + girls would have perished had you not gone up. Now as, owing to that, + everything has turned out according to your wishes, it would be a sin not + to take advantage of it, for you may be sure that, as the way has thus + been suddenly opened to you, so will all other things follow in due + course." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, madam," Cyril said simply. "I had not thought of it in that + light, but assuredly you are right, and I will not suffer myself to be + daunted by the difficulties there may be in my way." + </p> + <p> + John Wilkes now came in and sat down to the meal. He was vastly pleased + when he heard of the good fortune that had befallen Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me," Cyril said, "that I am but an impostor, and that at + least some share in the good luck ought to have fallen to you, John, + seeing that you carried them all down the ladder." + </p> + <p> + "I have carried heavier bales, many a time, much longer distances than + that—though I do not say that the woman was not a tidy weight, for, + indeed, she was; but I would have carried down ten of them for the honour + I had in being shaken by the hand by Prince Rupert, as gallant a sailor as + ever sailed a ship. No, no; what I did was all in a day's work, and no + more than lifting anchors and chains about in the storehouse. As for + honours, I want none of them. I am moored in a snug port here, and would + not leave Captain Dave if they would make a Duke of me." + </p> + <p> + Nellie had said no word of congratulation to Cyril, but as they rose from + dinner, she said, in low tones,— + </p> + <p> + "You know I am pleased, and hope that you will have all the good fortune + you deserve." + </p> + <p> + Cyril set out at once to make a round of the shops where he worked. The + announcement that he must at once terminate his connection with them, as + he was going on board the Fleet, was everywhere received with great + regret. + </p> + <p> + "I would gladly pay double," one said, "rather than that you should go, + for, indeed, it has taken a heavy load off my shoulders, and I know not + how I shall get on in the future." + </p> + <p> + "I should think there would be no difficulty in getting some other young + clerk to do the work," Cyril said. + </p> + <p> + "Not so easy," the man replied. "I had tried one or two before, and found + they were more trouble than they were worth. There are not many who write + as neatly as you do, and you do as much in an hour as some would take a + day over. However, I wish you good luck, and if you should come back, and + take up the work again, or start as a scrivener in the City, I can promise + you that you shall have my books again, and that among my friends I can + find you as much work as you can get through." + </p> + <p> + Something similar was said to him at each of the houses where he called, + and he felt much gratified at finding that his work had given such + satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + When he came in to supper, Cyril was conscious that something had occurred + of an unusual nature. Nellie's eyes were swollen with crying; Mrs. Dowsett + had also evidently been in tears; while Captain Dave was walking up and + down the room restlessly. + </p> + <p> + The servant was placing the things upon the table, and, just as they were + about to take their seats, the bell of the front door rang loudly. + </p> + <p> + "See who it is, John," Captain Dave said. "Whoever it is seems to be in a + mighty hurry." + </p> + <p> + In a minute or two John returned, followed by a gentleman. The latter + paused at the door, and then said, bowing courteously, as he advanced, to + Mrs. Dowsett,— + </p> + <p> + "I must ask pardon for intruding on your meal, madam, but my business is + urgent. I am the Earl of Wisbech, and I have called to see Sir Cyril + Shenstone, to offer him my heartfelt thanks for the service he has + rendered me by saving the lives of my daughters." + </p> + <p> + All had risen to their feet as he entered, and there was a slight + exclamation of surprise from the Captain, his wife, and daughter, as the + Earl said "Sir Cyril Shenstone." + </p> + <p> + Cyril stepped forward. + </p> + <p> + "I am Cyril Shenstone, my Lord," he said, "and had the good fortune to be + able, with the assistance of my friend here, John Wilkes, to rescue your + daughters, though, at the time, indeed, I was altogether ignorant of their + rank. It was a fortunate occurrence, but I must disclaim any merit in the + action, for it was by mere accident that, mounting to the window by a + ladder, I saw them lying insensible on the ground." + </p> + <p> + "Your modesty does you credit, sir," the Earl said, shaking him warmly by + the hand. "But such is not the opinion of Prince Rupert, who described it + to me as a very gallant action; and, moreover, he said that it was you who + first brought him the news that there were females in the house, which he + and others had supposed to be empty, and that it was solely owing to you + that the ladders were taken round." + </p> + <p> + "Will you allow me, my Lord, to introduce to you Captain Dowsett, his + wife, and daughter, who have been to me the kindest of friends?" + </p> + <p> + "A kindness, my Lord," Captain Dave said earnestly, "that has been repaid + a thousandfold by this good youth, of whose rank we were indeed ignorant + until you named it. May I ask you to honour us by joining in our meal?" + </p> + <p> + "That will I right gladly, sir," the Earl said, "for, in truth, I have + scarce broke my fast to-day. I was down at my place in Kent when I was + awoke this morning by one of my grooms, who had ridden down with the news + that my mansion in the Savoy had been burned, and that my daughters had + had a most narrow escape of their lives. Of course, I mounted at once and + rode to town, where I was happy in finding that they had well-nigh + recovered from the effects of their fright and the smoke. Neither they nor + the nurse who was with them could give me any account of what had + happened, save that they had, as they supposed, become insensible from the + smoke. When they recovered, they found themselves in the Earl of Surrey's + house, to which it seems they had been carried. After inquiry, I learned + that the Duke of Albemarle and Prince Rupert had both been on the scene + directing operations. I went to the latter, with whom I have the honour of + being well acquainted, and he told me the whole story, saying that had it + not been for Sir Cyril Shenstone, my daughters would certainly have + perished. He gave credit, too, to Sir Cyril's companion, who, he said, + carried them down the ladder, and himself entered the burning room the + last time, to aid in bringing out the nurse, who was too heavy for the + rescuer of my daughters to lift. Save a cup of wine and a piece of bread, + that I took on my first arrival, I have not broken my fast to-day." + </p> + <p> + Then he seated himself on a chair that Cyril had placed for him between + Mrs. Dowsett and Nellie. + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave whispered to John Wilkes, who went out, and returned in two + or three minutes with three or four flasks of rare Spanish wine which the + Captain had brought back on his last voyage, and kept for drinking on + special occasions. The dame always kept an excellent table, and although + she made many apologies to the Earl, he assured her that none were needed, + for that he could have supped no better in his own house. + </p> + <p> + "I hear," he said presently to Cyril, "that you are going out as a + Volunteer in Prince Rupert's ship. My son is also going with him, and I + hope, in a day or two, to introduce him to you. He is at present at + Cambridge, but, having set his mind on sailing with the Prince, I have + been fain to allow him to give up his studies. I heard from Prince Rupert + that you had recently been kidnapped and taken to Holland. He gave me no + particulars, nor did I ask them, being desirous of hurrying off at once to + express my gratitude to you. How was it that such an adventure befell you—for + it would hardly seem likely that you could have provoked the enmity of + persons capable of such an outrage?" + </p> + <p> + "It was the result of his services to me, my Lord," Captain Dave said. + "Having been a sea-captain, I am but a poor hand at accounts; but, having + fallen into this business at the death of my father, it seemed simple + enough for me to get on without much book-learning. I made but a bad shape + at it; and when Master Shenstone, as he then called himself, offered to + keep my books for me, it seemed to me an excellent mode of saving myself + worry and trouble. However, when he set himself to making up the accounts + of my stock, he found that I was nigh eight hundred pounds short; and, + setting himself to watch, discovered that my apprentices were in alliance + with a band of thieves, and were nightly robbing me. We caught them and + two of the thieves in the act. One of the latter was the receiver, and on + his premises the proceeds of a great number of robberies were found, and + there was no doubt that he was the chief of a notorious gang, called the + 'Black Gang,' which had for a long time infested the City and the + surrounding country. It was to prevent Sir Cyril from giving evidence at + the trial that he was kidnapped and sent away. He was placed in the house + of a diamond merchant, to whom the thieves were in the habit of consigning + jewels; and this might well have turned out fatal to him, for to the same + house came my elder apprentice and one of the men captured with him—a + notorious ruffian—who had been rescued from the constables by a gang + of their fellows, in open daylight, in the City. These, doubtless, would + have compassed his death had he not happily seen them enter the house, and + made his escape, taking passage in a coaster bound for Dunkirk, from which + place he took another ship to England. Thus you see, my Lord, that I am + indebted to him for saving me from a further loss that might well have + ruined me." + </p> + <p> + He paused, and glanced at Nellie, who rose at once, saying to the Earl,— + </p> + <p> + "I trust that your Lordship will excuse my mother and myself. My father + has more to tell you; at least, I should wish him to do so." + </p> + <p> + Then, taking her mother's hand, she curtsied deeply, and they left the + room together. + </p> + <p> + "Such, my Lord, as I have told you, is the service, so far as I knew till + this afternoon, Sir Cyril Shenstone has rendered me. That was no small + thing, but it is very little to what I know now that I am indebted to him. + After he went out I was speaking with my wife on money matters, desiring + much to be of assistance to him in the matter of the expedition on which + he is going. Suddenly my daughter burst into tears and left the room. I + naturally bade my wife follow her and learn what ailed her. Then, with + many sobs and tears, she told her mother that we little knew how much we + were indebted to him. She said she had been a wicked girl, having + permitted herself to be accosted several times by a well-dressed gallant, + who told her that he was the Earl of Harwich, who had professed great love + for her, and urged her to marry him privately. + </p> + <p> + "He was about to speak to her one day when she was out under Master + Cyril's escort. The latter interfered, and there was well-nigh a <i>fracas</i> + between them. Being afraid that some of the lookers-on might know her, and + bring the matter to our ears, she mentioned so much to us, and, in + consequence, we did not allow her to go out afterwards, save in the + company of her mother. Nevertheless, the man continued to meet her, and, + as he was unknown to her mother, passed notes into her hand. To these she + similarly replied, and at last consented to fly with him. She did so at + night, and was about to enter a sedan chair in the lane near this house + when they were interrupted by the arrival of Master Shenstone and my + friend John Wilkes. The former, it seems, had his suspicions, and setting + himself to watch, had discovered that she was corresponding with this man—whom + he had found was not the personage he pretended to be, but a disreputable + hanger-on of the Court, one John Harvey—and had then kept up an + incessant watch, with the aid of John Wilkes, outside the house at night, + until he saw her come out and join the fellow with two associates, when he + followed her to the chair they had in readiness for her. + </p> + <p> + "There was, she says, a terrible scene. Swords were drawn. John Wilkes + knocked down one of the men, and Master Shenstone ran John Harvey through + the shoulder. Appalled now at seeing how she had been deceived, and how + narrowly she had escaped destruction, she returned with her rescuers to + the house, and no word was ever said on the subject until she spoke this + afternoon. We had noticed that a great change had come over her, and that + she seemed to have lost all her tastes for shows and finery, but little + did we dream of the cause. She said that she could not have kept the + secret much longer in any case, being utterly miserable at the thought of + how she had degraded herself and deceived us. + </p> + <p> + "It was a sad story to have to hear, my Lord, but we have fully forgiven + her, having, indeed, cause to thank God both for her preservation and for + the good that this seems to have wrought in her. She had been a spoilt + child, and, being well-favoured, her head had been turned by flattery, and + she indulged in all sorts of foolish dreams. Now she is truly penitent for + her folly. Had you not arrived, my Lord, I should, when we had finished + our supper, have told Master Shenstone that I knew of this vast service he + has rendered us—a service to which the other was as nothing. That + touched my pocket only; this my only child's happiness. I have told you + the story, my Lord, by her consent, in order that you might know what sort + of a young fellow this gentleman who has rescued your daughter is. John, I + thank you for your share in this matter," and, with tears in his eyes, he + held out his hand to his faithful companion. + </p> + <p> + "I thank you deeply, Captain Dowsett, for having told me this story," the + Earl said gravely. "It was a painful one to tell, and I feel sure that the + circumstance will, as you say, be of lasting benefit to your daughter. It + shows that her heart is a true and loyal one, or she would not have had so + painful a story told to a stranger, simply that the true character of her + preserver should be known. I need not say that it has had the effect she + desired of raising Sir Cyril Shenstone highly in my esteem. Prince Rupert + spoke of him very highly and told me how he had been honourably supporting + himself and his father, until the death of the latter. Now I see that he + possesses unusual discretion and acuteness, as well as bravery. Now I will + take my leave, thanking you for the good entertainment that you have given + me. I am staying at the house of the Earl of Surrey, Sir Cyril, and I hope + that you will call to-morrow morning, in order that my daughters may thank + you in person." + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave and Cyril escorted the Earl to the door and then returned to + the chamber above. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII — NEW FRIENDS + </h2> + <p> + On arriving at the room upstairs, Captain Dave placed his hand on Cyril's + shoulder and said: + </p> + <p> + "How can I thank you, lad, for what you have done for us?" + </p> + <p> + "By saying nothing further about it, Captain Dave. I had hoped that the + matter would never have come to your ears, and yet I rejoice, for her own + sake, that Mistress Nellie has told you all. I thought that she would do + so some day, for I, too, have seen how much she has been changed since + then, and though it becomes me not to speak of one older than myself, I + think that the experience has been for her good, and, above all, I am + rejoiced to find that you have fully forgiven her, for indeed I am sure + that she has been grievously punished." + </p> + <p> + "Well, well, lad, it shall be as you say, for indeed I am but a poor hand + at talking, but believe me that I feel as grateful as if I could express + myself rightly, and that the Earl of Wisbech cannot feel one whit more + thankful to you for having saved the lives of his three children than I do + for your having saved my Nellie from the consequences of her own folly. + There is one thing that you must let me do—it is but a small thing, + but at present I have no other way of showing what I feel: you must let me + take upon myself, as if you had been my son, the expenses of this outfit + of yours. I was talking of the matter, as you may have guessed by what I + said to the Earl, when Nellie burst into tears; and if I contemplated this + when I knew only you had saved me from ruin, how much more do I feel it + now that you have done this greater thing? I trust that you will not + refuse me and my wife this small opportunity of showing our gratitude. + What say you, John Wilkes?" + </p> + <p> + "I say, Captain Dave, that it is well spoken, and I am sure Master Cyril + will not refuse your offer." + </p> + <p> + "I will not, Captain Dave, providing that you let it be as a loan that I + may perhaps some day be enabled to repay you. I feel that it would be + churlish to refuse so kind an offer, and it will relieve me of the one + difficulty that troubled me when the prospects in all other respects + seemed so fair." + </p> + <p> + "That is right, lad, and you have taken a load off my mind. You have not + acted quite fairly by us in one respect, Master Cyril!" + </p> + <p> + "How is that?" Cyril asked in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "In not telling us that you were Sir Cyril Shenstone, and in letting us + put you up in an attic, and letting you go about as Nellie's escort, as if + you had been but an apprentice." + </p> + <p> + Cyril laughed. + </p> + <p> + "I said that my father was Sir Aubrey Shenstone, though I own that I did + not say so until I had been here some time; but the fact that he was a + Baronet and not a Knight made little difference. It was a friendless lad + whom you took in and gave shelter to, Captain Dave, and—it mattered + not whether he was plain Cyril or Sir Cyril. I had certainly no thought of + taking my title again until I entered a foreign army, and indeed it would + have been a disservice to me here in London. I should have cut but a poor + figure asking for work and calling myself Sir Cyril Shenstone. I should + have had to enter into all sorts of explanations before anyone would have + believed me, and I don't think that, even with you, I should have been so + comfortable as I have been." + </p> + <p> + "Well, at any rate, no harm has been done," Captain Dave said; "but I + think you might have told me." + </p> + <p> + "If I had, Captain Dave, you would assuredly have told your wife and + Mistress Nellie; and it was much more pleasant for me that things should + be as they were." + </p> + <p> + "Well, perhaps you were right, lad. And I own that I might not have let + you work at my books, and worry over that robbery, had I known that you + were of a station above me." + </p> + <p> + "That you could never have known," Cyril said warmly. "We have been poor + ever since I can remember. I owed my education to the kindness of friends + of my mother, and in no way has my station been equal to that of a London + trader like yourself. As to the title, it was but a matter of birth, and + went but ill with an empty purse and a shabby doublet. In the future it + may be useful, but until now, it has been naught, and indeed worse than + naught, to me." + </p> + <p> + The next morning when Cyril went into the parlour he found that Nellie was + busy assisting the maid to lay the table. When the latter had left the + room, the girl went up to Cyril and took his hand. + </p> + <p> + "I have never thanked you yet," she said. "I could not bring myself to + speak of it, but now that I have told them I can do so. Ever since that + dreadful night I have prayed for you, morning and evening, and thanked God + for sending you to my rescue. What a wicked girl you must have thought me—and + with reason! But you could not think of me worse than I thought of myself. + Now that my father and mother have forgiven me I shall be different + altogether. I had before made up my mind to tell them. Still, it did not + seem to me that I should ever be happy again. But now that I have had the + courage to speak out, and they have been so good to me, a great weight is + lifted off my mind, and I mean to learn to be a good housewife like my + mother, and to try to be worthy, some day, of an honest man's love." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure you will be," Cyril said warmly. "And so, Mistress Nellie, it + has all turned out for the best, though it did not seem so at one time." + </p> + <p> + At this moment Captain Dave came in. "I am glad to see you two talking + together as of old," he said. "We had thought that there must be some + quarrel between you, for you had given up rating him, Nellie. Give her a + kiss, Cyril; she is a good lass, though she has been a foolish one. Nay, + Nellie, do not offer him your cheek—it is the fashion to do that to + every idle acquaintance. Kiss him heartily, as if you loved him. That is + right, lass. Now let us to breakfast. Where is your mother? She is late." + </p> + <p> + "I told her that I would see after the breakfast in future, father, and I + have begun this morning—partly because it is my duty to take the + work off her hands, and partly because I wanted a private talk with Sir + Cyril." + </p> + <p> + "I won't be called Sir Cyril under this roof," the lad said, laughing. + "And I warn you that if anyone calls me so I will not answer. I have + always been Cyril with you all, and I intend to remain so to the end, and + you must remember that it is but a few months that I have had the right to + the title, and was never addressed by it until by Prince Rupert. I was for + the moment well nigh as much surprised as you were last night." + </p> + <p> + An hour later Cyril again donned his best suit, and started to pay his + visit to the Earl. Had he not seen him over-night, he would have felt very + uncomfortable at the thought of the visit; but he had found him so + pleasant and friendly, and so entirely free from any air of pride or + condescension, that it seemed as if he were going to meet a friend. He was + particularly struck with the manner in which he had placed Captain Dave + and his family at their ease, and got them to talk as freely and naturally + with him as if he had been an acquaintance of long standing. It seemed + strange to him to give his name as Sir Cyril Shenstone to the lackeys at + the door, and he almost expected to see an expression of amusement on + their faces. They had, however, evidently received instructions respecting + him, for he was without question at once ushered into the room in which + the Earl of Wisbech and his daughters were sitting. + </p> + <p> + The Earl shook him warmly by the hand, and then, turning to his daughters, + said,— + </p> + <p> + "This is the gentleman to whom you owe your lives, girls. Sir Cyril, these + are my daughters—Lady Dorothy, Lady Bertha, and Lady Beatrice. It + seems somewhat strange to have to introduce you, who have saved their + lives, to them; but you have the advantage of them, for you have seen them + before, but they have not until now seen your face." + </p> + <p> + Each of the girls as she was named made a deep curtsey, and then presented + her cheek to be kissed, as was the custom of the times. + </p> + <p> + "They are somewhat tongue-tied," the Earl said, smiling, as the eldest of + the three cast an appealing glance to him, "and have begged me to thank + you in their names, which I do with all my heart, and beg you to believe + that their gratitude is none the less deep because they have no words to + express it. They generally have plenty to say, I can assure you, and will + find their tongues when you are a little better acquainted." + </p> + <p> + "I am most happy to have been of service to you, ladies," Cyril said, + bowing deeply to them. "I can hardly say that I have the advantage your + father speaks of, for in truth the smoke was so thick, and my eyes smarted + so with it, that I could scarce see your faces." + </p> + <p> + "Their attire, too, in no way helped you," the Earl said, with a laugh, + "for, as I hear, their costume was of the slightest. I believe that + Dorothy's chief concern is that she did not have time to attire herself in + a more becoming toilette before the smoke overpowered her." + </p> + <p> + "Now, father," the girl protested, with a pretty colour in her cheeks, + "you know I have never said anything of the sort, though I did say that I + wished I had thrown a cloak round me. It is not pleasant, whatever you may + think, to know that one was handed down a ladder in one's nightdress." + </p> + <p> + "I don't care about that a bit," Beatrice said; "but you did not say, + father, that it was a young gentleman, no older than Sydney, who found us + and carried us out. I had expected to see a great big man." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think I said anything about his age, Beatrice, but simply told + you that I had found out that it was Sir Cyril Shenstone that had saved + you." + </p> + <p> + "Is the nurse recovering, my Lord?" + </p> + <p> + "She is still in bed, and the doctor says she will be some time before she + quite recovers from the fright and shock. They were all sleeping in the + storey above. It was Dorothy who first woke, and, after waking her + sisters, ran into the nurse's room, which was next door, and roused her. + The silly woman was so frightened that she could do nothing but stand at + the window and scream until the girls almost dragged her away, and forced + her to come downstairs. The smoke, however, was so thick that they could + get no farther than the next floor; then, guided by the screams of the + other servants, they opened a door and ran in, but, as you know, it was + not the room into which the women had gone. The nurse fell down in a faint + as soon as she got in. The girls, as it seems, dragged her as far as they + could towards the window, but she was too heavy for them; and as they had + not shut the door, the smoke poured in and overpowered them, and they fell + beside her. The rest you know. She is a silly woman, and she has quite + lost my confidence by her folly and cowardice, but she has been a good + servant, and the girls, all of whom she nursed, were fond of her. Still, + it is evident that she is not to be trusted in an emergency, and it was + only because the girls' governess is away on a visit to her mother that + she happened to be left in charge of them. Now, young ladies, you can + leave us, as I have other matters to talk over with Sir Cyril." + </p> + <p> + The three girls curtsied deeply, first to their father, and then to Cyril, + who held the door for them to pass out. + </p> + <p> + "Now, Sir Cyril," the Earl said, as the door closed behind them, "we must + have a talk together. You may well believe that, after what has happened, + I look upon you almost as part of my family, and that I consider you have + given me the right to look after your welfare as if you were a near + relation of my own; and glad I am to have learned yesterday evening that + you are, in all respects, one whom I might be proud indeed to call a + kinsman. Had you been a cousin of mine, with parents but indifferently off + in worldly goods, it would have been my duty, of course, to push you + forward and to aid you in every way to make a proper figure on this + expedition. I think that, after what has happened, I have equally the + right to do so, and what would have been my duty, had you been a relation, + is no less a duty, and will certainly be a great gratification to me to do + now. You understand me, do you not? I wish to take upon myself all the + charges connected with your outfit, and to make you an allowance, similar + to that which I shall give to my son, for your expenses on board ship. All + this is of course but a slight thing, but, believe me, that when the + expedition is over it will be my pleasure to help you forward to + advancement in any course which you may choose." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you most heartily, my Lord," Cyril said, "and would not hesitate + to accept your help in the present matter, did I need it. However, I have + saved some little money during the past two years, and Captain Dowsett has + most generously offered me any sum I may require for my expenses, and has + consented to allow me to take it as a loan to be repaid at some future + time, should it be in my power to do so. Your offer, however, to aid me in + my career afterwards, I most thankfully accept. My idea has always been to + take service under some foreign prince, and Prince Rupert has most kindly + promised to aid me in that respect; but after serving for a time at sea I + shall be better enabled to judge than at present as to whether that course + is indeed the best, and I shall be most thankful for your counsel in this + and all other matters, and feel myself fortunate indeed to have obtained + your good will and patronage." + </p> + <p> + "Well, if it must be so, it must," the Earl said. "Your friend Captain + Dowsett seems to me a very worthy man. You have placed him under an + obligation as heavy as my own, and he has the first claim to do you + service. In this matter, then, I must be content to stand aside, but on + your return from sea it will be my turn, and I shall be hurt and grieved + indeed if you do not allow me an opportunity of proving my gratitude to + you. As to the career you speak of, it is a precarious one. There are + indeed many English and Scotch officers who have risen to high rank and + honour in foreign service; but to every one that so succeeds, how many + fall unnoticed, and lie in unmarked graves, in well-nigh every country in + Europe? Were you like so many of your age, bent merely on adventure and + pleasure, the case would be different, but it is evident that you have a + clear head for business, that you are steady and persevering, and such + being the case, there are many offices under the Crown in which you might + distinguish yourself and do far better than the vast majority of those who + sell their swords to foreign princes, and become mere soldiers of fortune, + fighting for a cause in which they have no interest, and risking their + lives in quarrels that are neither their own nor their country's. + </p> + <p> + "However, all this we can talk over when you come back after having, as I + hope, aided in destroying the Dutch Fleet. I expect my son up to-morrow, + and trust that you will accompany him to the King's <i>levée</i>, next + Monday. Prince Rupert tells me that he has already presented you to the + King, and that you were well received by him, as indeed you had a right to + be, as the son of a gentleman who had suffered and sacrificed much in the + Royal cause. But I will take the opportunity of introducing you to several + other gentlemen who will sail with you. On the following day I shall be + going down into Kent, and shall remain there until it is time for Sydney + to embark. If you can get your preparations finished by that time, I trust + that you will give us the pleasure of your company, and will stay with me + until you embark with Sydney. In this way you will come to know us better, + and to feel, as I wish you to feel, as one of the family." + </p> + <p> + Cyril gratefully accepted the invitation, and then took his leave. + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave was delighted when he heard the issue of his visit to the + Earl. + </p> + <p> + "I should never have forgiven you, lad, if you had accepted the Earl's + offer to help you in the matter of this expedition. It is no great thing, + and comes well within my compass, and I should have been sorely hurt had + you let him come between us; but in the future I can do little, and he + much. I have spoken to several friends who are better acquainted with + public affairs than I am, and they all speak highly of him. He holds, for + the most part, aloof from Court, which is to his credit seeing how matters + go on there; but he is spoken of as a very worthy gentleman and one of + merit, who might take a prominent part in affairs were he so minded. He + has broad estates in Kent and Norfolk, and spends the greater part of his + life at one or other of his country seats. Doubtless, he will be able to + assist you greatly in the future." + </p> + <p> + "I did not like to refuse his offer to go down with him to Kent," Cyril + said, "though I would far rather have remained here with you until we + sail." + </p> + <p> + "You did perfectly right, lad. It will cut short your stay here but a + week, and it would be madness to refuse the opportunity of getting to know + him and his family better. The Countess died three years ago, I hear, and + he has shown no disposition to take another wife, as he might well do, + seeing he is but a year or two past forty, and has as pleasant a face and + manner as I have ever seen. He is not the sort of man to promise what he + will not perform, Cyril, and more than ever do I think that it was a + fortunate thing for you that John Wilkes fetched you to that fire in the + Savoy. And now, lad, you have no time to lose. You must come with me at + once to Master Woods, the tailor, in Eastcheap, who makes clothes not only + for the citizens but for many of the nobles and gallants of the Court. In + the first place, you will need a fitting dress for the King's <i>levée</i>; + then you will need at least one more suit similar to that you now wear, + and three for on board ship and for ordinary occasions, made of stout + cloth, but in the fashion; then you must have helmet, and breast- and + back-pieces for the fighting, and for these we will go to Master Lawrence, + the armourer, in Cheapside. All these we will order to-day in my name, and + put them down in your account to me. As to arms, you have your sword, and + there is but a brace of pistols to be bought. You will want a few things + such as thick cloaks for sea service; for though I suppose that Volunteers + do not keep their watch, you may meet with rains and heavy weather, and + you will need something to keep you dry." + </p> + <p> + They sallied out at once. So the clothes were ordered, and the Court suit, + with the best of the others promised by the end of the week; the armour + was fitted on and bought, and a stock of fine shirts with ruffles, hose, + and shoes, was also purchased. The next day Sydney Oliphant, the Earl's + son, called upon Cyril. He was a frank, pleasant young fellow, about a + year older than Cyril. He was very fond of his sisters, and expressed in + lively terms his gratitude for their rescue. + </p> + <p> + "This expedition has happened in the nick of time for me," he said, when, + in accordance with his invitation, Cyril and he embarked in the Earl's + boat in which he had been rowed to the City, "for I was in bad odour with + the authorities, and was like, erelong, to have been sent home far less + pleasantly; and although the Earl, my father, is very indulgent, he would + have been terribly angry with me had it been so. To tell you the truth, at + the University we are divided into two sets—those who read and those + who don't—and on joining I found myself very soon among the latter. + I don't think it was quite my fault, for I naturally fell in with + companions whom I had known before, and it chanced that some of these were + among the wildest spirits in the University. + </p> + <p> + "Of course I had my horses, and, being fond of riding, I was more often in + the saddle than in my seat in the college schools. Then there were + constant complaints against us for sitting up late and disturbing the + college with our melodies, and altogether we stood in bad odour with the + Dons; and when they punished us we took our revenge by playing them + pranks, until lately it became almost open war, and would certainly have + ended before long in a score or more of us being sent down. I should not + have minded that myself, but it would have grieved the Earl, and I am not + one of the new-fashioned ones who care naught for what their fathers may + say. He has been praising you up to the skies this morning, I can tell you—I + don't mean only as to the fire but about other things—and says he + hopes we shall be great friends, and I am sure I hope so too, and think + so. He had been telling me about your finding out about their robbing that + good old sea-captain you live with, and how you were kidnapped afterwards, + and sent to Holland; and how, in another adventure, although he did not + tell me how that came about, you pricked a ruffling gallant through the + shoulder; so that you have had a larger share of adventure, by a great + deal, than I have. I had expected to see you rather a solemn personage, + for the Earl told me you had more sense in your little finger than I had + in my whole body, which was not complimentary to me, though I dare say it + is true." + </p> + <p> + "Now, as a rule, they say that sensible people are very disagreeable; but + I hope I shall not be disagreeable," Cyril laughed, "and I am certainly + not aware that I am particularly sensible." + </p> + <p> + "No, I am sure you won't be disagreeable, but I should have been quite + nervous about coming to see you if it had not been for the girls. Little + Beatrice told me she thought you were a prince in disguise, and had + evidently a private idea that the good fairies had sent you to her rescue. + Bertha said that you were a very proper young gentleman, and that she was + sure you were nice. Dorothy didn't say much, but she evidently approved of + the younger girls' sentiments, so I felt that you must be all right, for + the girls are generally pretty severe critics, and very few of my friends + stand at all high in their good graces. What amusement are you most fond + of?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid I have had very little time for amusements," Cyril said. "I + was very fond of fencing when I was in France, but have had no opportunity + of practising since I came to England. I went to a bull-bait once, but + thought it a cruel sport." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you go to a play-house sometimes?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I have never been inside one. A good deal of my work has been done in + the evening, and I don't know that the thought ever occurred to me to go. + I know nothing of your English sports, and neither ride nor shoot, except + with a pistol, with which I used to be a good shot when I was in France." + </p> + <p> + They rowed down as low as Greenwich, then, as the tide turned, made their + way back; and by the time Cyril alighted from the boat at London Bridge + stairs the two young fellows had become quite intimate with each other. + </p> + <p> + Nellie looked with great approval at Cyril as he came downstairs in a full + Court dress. Since the avowal she had made of her fault she had recovered + much of her brightness. She bustled about the house, intent upon the + duties she had newly taken up, to the gratification of Mrs. Dowsett, who + protested that her occupation was gone. + </p> + <p> + "Not at all, mother. It is only that you are now captain of the ship, and + have got to give your orders instead of carrying them out yourself. Father + did not pull up the ropes or go aloft to furl the sails, while I have no + doubt he had plenty to do in seeing that his orders were carried out. You + will be worse off than he was, for he had John Wilkes, and others, who + knew their duty, while I have got almost everything to learn." + </p> + <p> + Although her cheerfulness had returned, and she could again be heard + singing snatches of song about the house, her voice and manner were + gentler and softer, and Captain Dave said to Cyril,— + </p> + <p> + "It has all turned out for the best, lad. The ship was very near wrecked, + but the lesson has been a useful one, and there is no fear of her being + lost from want of care or good seamanship in future. I feel, too, that I + have been largely to blame in the matter. I spoilt her as a child, and I + spoilt her all along. Her mother would have kept a firmer hand upon the + helm if I had not always spoken up for the lass, and said, 'Let her have + her head; don't check the sheets in too tautly.' I see I was wrong now. + Why, lad, what a blessing it is to us all that it happened when it did! + for if that fire had been but a month earlier, you would probably have + gone away with the Earl, and we should have known nothing of Nellie's + peril until we found that she was gone." + </p> + <p> + "Sir Cyril—no, I really cannot call you Cyril now," Nellie said, + curtseying almost to the ground after taking a survey of the lad, "your + costume becomes you rarely; and I am filled with wonder at the thought of + my own stupidity in not seeing all along that you were a prince in + disguise. It is like the fairy tales my old nurse used to tell me of the + king's son who went out to look for a beautiful wife, and who worked as a + scullion in the king's palace without anyone suspecting his rank. I think + fortune has been very hard upon me, in that I was born five years too + soon. Had I been but fourteen instead of nineteen, your Royal Highness + might have cast favourable eyes upon me." + </p> + <p> + "But then, Mistress Nellie," Cyril said, laughing, "you would be filled + with grief now at the thought that I am going away to the wars." + </p> + <p> + The girl's face changed. She dropped her saucy manner and said earnestly,— + </p> + <p> + "I am grieved, Cyril; and if it would do any good I would sit down and + have a hearty cry. The Dutchmen are brave fighters, and their fleet will + be stronger than ours; and there will be many who sail away to sea who + will never come back again. I have never had a brother; but it seems to me + that if I had had one who was wise, and thoughtful, and brave, I should + have loved him as I love you. I think the princess must always have felt + somehow that the scullion was not what he seemed; and though I have always + laughed at you and scolded you, I have known all along that you were not + really a clerk. I don't know that I thought you were a prince; but I + somehow felt a little afraid of you. You never said that you thought me + vain and giddy, but I knew you did think so, and I used to feel a little + malice against you; and yet, somehow, I respected and liked you all the + more, and now it seems to me that you are still in disguise, and that, + though you seem to be but a boy, you are really a man to whom some good + fairy has given a boy's face. Methinks no boy could be as thoughtful and + considerate, and as kind as you are." + </p> + <p> + "You are exaggerating altogether," Cyril said; "and yet, in what you say + about my age, I think you are partly right. I have lived most of my life + alone; I have had much care always on my shoulders, and grave + responsibility; thus it is that I am older in many ways than I should be + at my years. I would it were not so. I have not had any boyhood, as other + boys have, and I think it has been a great misfortune for me." + </p> + <p> + "It has not been a misfortune for us, Cyril; it has been a blessing indeed + to us all that you have not been quite like other boys, and I think that + all your life it will be a satisfaction for you to know that you have + saved one house from ruin, one woman from misery, and disgrace. Now it is + time for you to be going; but although you are leaving us tomorrow, Cyril, + I hope that you are not going quite out of our lives." + </p> + <p> + "That you may be sure I am not, Nellie. If you have reason to be grateful + to me, truly I have much reason to be grateful to your father. I have + never been so happy as since I have been in this house, and I shall always + return to it as to a home where I am sure of a welcome—as the place + to which I chiefly owe any good fortune that may ever befall me." + </p> + <p> + The <i>levée</i> was a brilliant one, and was attended, in addition to the + usual throng of courtiers, by most of the officers and gentlemen who were + going with the Fleet. Cyril was glad indeed that he was with the Earl of + Wisbech and his son, for he would have felt lonely and out of place in the + brilliant throng, in which Prince Rupert's face would have been the only + one with which he was familiar. The Earl introduced him to several of the + gentlemen who would be his shipmates, and by all he was cordially received + when the Earl named him as the gentleman who had rescued his daughters + from death. + </p> + <p> + At times, when the Earl was chatting with his friends, Cyril moved about + through the rooms with Sydney, who knew by appearance a great number of + those present, and was able to point out all the distinguished persons of + the Court to him. + </p> + <p> + "There is the Prince," he said, "talking with the Earl of Rochester. What + a grave face he has now! It is difficult to believe that he is the Rupert + of the wars, and the headstrong prince whose very bravery helped to lose + well-nigh as many battles as he won. We may be sure that he will take us + into the very thick of the fight, Cyril. Even now his wrist is as firm, + and, I doubt not, his arm as strong as when he led the Cavaliers. I have + seen him in the tennis-court; there is not one at the Court, though many + are well-nigh young enough to be his sons, who is his match at tennis. + There is the Duke of York. They say he is a Catholic, but I own that makes + no difference to me. He is fond of the sea, and is never so happy as when + he is on board ship, though you would hardly think it by his grave face. + The King is fond of it, too. He has a pleasure vessel that is called a + yacht, and so has the Duke of York, and they have races one against the + other; but the King generally wins. He is making it a fashionable pastime. + Some day I will have one myself—that is, if I find I like the sea; + for it must be pleasant to sail about in your own vessel, and to go + wheresoever one may fancy without asking leave from any man." + </p> + <p> + When it came to his turn Cyril passed before the King with the Earl and + his son. The Earl presented Sydney, who had not before been at Court, to + the King, mentioning that he was going out as a Volunteer in Prince + Rupert's vessel. + </p> + <p> + "That is as it should be, my Lord," the King said. "England need never + fear so long as her nobles and gentlemen are ready themselves to go out to + fight her battles, and to set an example to the seamen. You need not + present this young gentleman to me; my cousin Rupert has already done so, + and told me of the service he has rendered to your daughters. He, too, + sails with the Prince, and after what happened there can be no doubt that + he can stand fire well. I would that this tiresome dignity did not prevent + my being of the party. I would gladly, for once, lay my kingship down and + go out as one of the company to help give the Dutchmen a lesson that will + teach them that, even if caught unexpectedly, the sea-dogs of England can + well hold their own, though they have no longer a Blake to command them." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder that the King ventures to use Blake's name," Sydney whispered, + as they moved away, "considering the indignities that he allowed the + judges to inflict on the body of the grand old sailor." + </p> + <p> + "It was scandalous!" Cyril said warmly; "and I burned with indignation + when I heard of it in France. They may call him a traitor because he sided + with the Parliament, but even Royalists should never have forgotten what + great deeds he did for England. However, though they might have + dishonoured his body, they could not touch his fame, and his name will be + known and honoured as long as England is a nation and when the names of + the men who condemned him have been long forgotten." + </p> + <p> + After leaving the <i>levée</i>, Cyril went back to the City, and the next + morning started on horseback, with the Earl and his son, to the latter's + seat, near Sevenoaks, the ladies having gone down in the Earl's coach on + the previous day. Wholly unaccustomed as Cyril was to riding, he was so + stiff that he had difficulty in dismounting when they rode up to the + mansion. The Earl had provided a quiet and well-trained horse for his use, + and he had therefore found no difficulty in retaining his seat. + </p> + <p> + "You must ride every day while you are down here," the Earl said, "and by + the end of the week you will begin to be fairly at home in the saddle. A + good seat is one of the prime necessities of a gentleman's education, and + if it should be that you ever carry out your idea of taking service abroad + it will be essential for you, because, in most cases, the officers are + mounted. You can hardly expect ever to become a brilliant rider. For that + it is necessary to begin young; but if you can keep your seat under all + circumstances, and be able to use your sword on horseback, as well as on + foot, it will be all that is needful." + </p> + <p> + The week passed very pleasantly. Cyril rode and fenced daily with Sydney, + who was surprised to find that he was fully his match with the sword. He + walked in the gardens with the girls, who had now quite recovered from the + effects of the fire. Bertha and Beatrice, being still children, chatted + with him as freely and familiarly as they did with Sydney. Of Lady Dorothy + he saw less, as she was in charge of her <i>gouvernante</i>, who always + walked beside her, and was occupied in training her into the habits of + preciseness and decorum in vogue at the time. + </p> + <p> + "I do believe, Dorothy," Sydney said, one day, "that you are forgetting + how to laugh. You walk like a machine, and seem afraid to move your hands + or your feet except according to rule. I like you very much better as you + were a year ago, when you did not think yourself too fine for a romp, and + could laugh when you were pleased. That dragon of yours is spoiling you + altogether." + </p> + <p> + "That is a matter of opinion, Sydney," Dorothy said, with a deep curtsey. + "When you first began to fence, I have no doubt you were stiff and + awkward, and I am sure if you had always had someone by your side, saying, + 'Keep your head up!' 'Don't poke your chin forward!' 'Pray do not swing + your arms!' and that sort of thing, you would be just as awkward as I + feel. I am sure I would rather run about with the others; the process of + being turned into a young lady is not a pleasant one. But perhaps some + day, when you see the finished article, you will be pleased to give your + Lordship's august approval," and she ended with a merry laugh that would + have shocked her <i>gouvernante</i> if she had heard it. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII — THE BATTLE OF LOWESTOFT + </h2> + <p> + The Earl returned with his son and Cyril to town, and the latter spent the + night in the City. + </p> + <p> + "I do not know, Cyril," Captain Dave said, as they talked over his + departure, "that you run much greater risk in going than do we in staying + here. The Plague makes progress, and although it has not invaded the City, + we can hardly hope that it will be long before it appears here. There are + many evil prophecies abroad, and it is the general opinion that a great + misfortune hangs over us, and they say that many have prepared to leave + London. I have talked the matter over with my wife. We have not as yet + thought of going, but should the Plague come heavily, it may be that we + shall for a time go away. There will be no business to be done, for + vessels will not come up the Thames and risk infection, nor, indeed, would + they be admitted into ports, either in England or abroad, after coming + from an infected place. Therefore I could leave without any loss in the + way of trade. It will, of course, depend upon the heaviness of the malady, + but if it becomes widespread we shall perhaps go for a visit to my wife's + cousin, who lives near Gloucester, and who has many times written to us + urging us to go down with Nellie for a visit to her. Hitherto, business + has prevented my going, but if all trade ceases, it would be a good + occasion for us, and such as may never occur again. Still, I earnestly + desire that it may not arise, for it cannot do so without sore trouble and + pain alighting on the City. Did the Earl tell you, Cyril, what he has done + with regard to John?" + </p> + <p> + "No; he did not speak to me on the subject." + </p> + <p> + "His steward came here three days since with a gold watch and chain, as a + gift from the Earl. The watch has an inscription on the case, saying that + it is presented to John Wilkes from the Earl of Wisbech, as a memorial of + his gratitude for the great services rendered to his daughters. Moreover, + he brought a letter from the Earl saying that if John should at any time + leave my service, owing to my death or retirement from business, or from + John himself wishing, either from age or other reason, to leave me, he + would place at his service a cottage and garden on his estate, and a + pension of twenty pounds a year, to enable him to live in comfort for the + remainder of his days. John is, as you may suppose, mightily pleased, for + though I would assuredly never part with him as long as I live, and have + by my will made provision that will keep him from want in case I die + before him, it was mighty pleasant to receive so handsome a letter and + offer of service from the Earl. Nellie wrote for him a letter in which he + thanked the Earl for the kindness of his offer, for which, although he + hoped he should never be forced to benefit from it, he was none the less + obliged and grateful, seeing that he had done nothing that any other + bystander would not have done, to deserve it." + </p> + <p> + Early the next morning Sydney Oliphant rode up to the door, followed by + two grooms, one of whom had a led horse, and the other a sumpter-mule, + which was partly laden. Captain Dave went down with Cyril to the door. + </p> + <p> + "I pray you to enter, my Lord," he said. "My wife will not be happy unless + you take a cup of posset before you start. Moreover, she and my daughter + desire much to see you, as you are going to sail with Sir Cyril, whom we + regard as a member of our family." + </p> + <p> + "I will come up right willingly," the young noble said, leaping lightly + from his horse. "If your good dame's posset is as good as the wine the + Earl, my father, tells me you gave him, it must be good indeed; for he + told me he believed he had none in his cellar equal to it." + </p> + <p> + He remained for a few minutes upstairs, chatting gaily, vowing that the + posset was the best he had ever drank, and declaring to Nellie that he + regarded as a favourable omen for his expedition that he should have seen + so fair a face the last thing before starting. He shook hands with John + Wilkes heartily when he came up to say that Cyril's valises were all + securely packed on the horses, and then went off, promising to send + Captain Dave a runnet of the finest schiedam from the Dutch Admiral's + ship. + </p> + <p> + "Truly, I am thankful you came up," Cyril said, as they mounted and rode + off. "Before you came we were all dull, and the Dame and Mistress Nellie + somewhat tearful; Now we have gone off amidst smiles, which is vastly more + pleasant." + </p> + <p> + Crossing London Bridge, they rode through Southwark, and then out into the + open country. Each had a light valise strapped behind the saddle, and the + servants had saddle-bags containing the smaller articles of luggage, while + the sumpter-mule carried two trunks with their clothes and sea + necessaries. It was late in the evening when they arrived at Chatham. Here + they put up at an hotel which was crowded with officers of the Fleet, and + with Volunteers like themselves. + </p> + <p> + "I should grumble at these quarters, Cyril," Sydney said, as the landlord, + with many apologies, showed them into a tiny attic, which was the only + place he had unoccupied, "were it not that we are going to sea to-morrow, + and I suppose that our quarters will be even rougher there. However, we + may have elbow-room for a time, for most of the Volunteers will not join, + I hear, until the last thing before the Fleet sails, and it may be a + fortnight yet before all the ships are collected. I begged my father to + let me do the same, but he goes back again to-day to Sevenoaks, and he + liked not the idea of my staying in town, seeing that the Plague is + spreading so rapidly. I would even have stayed in the country had he let + me, but he was of opinion that I was best on board—in the first + place, because I may not get news down there in time to join the Fleet + before it sails, and in the second, that I might come to get over this + sickness of the sea, and so be fit and able to do my part when we meet the + Dutch. This was so reasonable that I could urge nothing against it; for, + in truth, it would be a horrible business if I were lying like a sick dog, + unable to lift my head, while our men were fighting the Dutch. I have + never been to sea, and know not how I shall bear it. Are you a good + sailor?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I used to go out very often in a fishing-boat at Dunkirk, and never + was ill from the first. Many people are not ill at all, and it will + certainly be of an advantage to you to be on board for a short time in + quiet waters before setting out for sea." + </p> + <p> + On going downstairs, Lord Oliphant found several young men of his + acquaintance among those staying in the house. He introduced Cyril to + them. But the room was crowded and noisy; many of those present had drunk + more than was good for them, and it was not long before Cyril told his + friend that he should go up to bed. + </p> + <p> + "I am not accustomed to noisy parties, Sydney, and feel quite confused + with all this talk." + </p> + <p> + "You will soon get accustomed to it, Cyril. Still, do as you like. I dare + say I shall not be very long before I follow you." + </p> + <p> + The next morning after breakfast they went down to the quay, and took a + boat to the ship, which was lying abreast of the dockyard. The captain, on + their giving their names, consulted the list. + </p> + <p> + "That is right, gentlemen, though indeed I know not why you should have + come down until we are ready to sail, which may not be for a week or more, + though we shall go out from here to-morrow and join those lying in the + Hope; for indeed you can be of no use while we are fitting, and would but + do damage to your clothes and be in the way of the sailors. It is but + little accommodation you will find on board here, though we will do the + best we can for you." + </p> + <p> + "We do not come about accommodation, captain," Lord Oliphant laughed, "and + we have brought down gear with us that will not soil, or rather, that + cannot be the worse for soiling. There are three or four others at the inn + where we stopped last night who are coming on board, but I hear that the + rest of the Volunteers will probably join when the Fleet assembles in + Yarmouth roads." + </p> + <p> + "Then they must be fonder of journeying on horseback than I am," the + captain said. "While we are in the Hope, where, indeed, for aught I know, + we may tarry but a day or two, they could come down by boat conveniently + without trouble, whereas to Yarmouth it is a very long ride, with the risk + of losing their purses to the gentlemen of the road. Moreover, though the + orders are at present that the Fleet gather at Yarmouth, and many are + already there 'tis like that it may be changed in a day for Harwich or the + Downs. I pray you get your meals at your inn to-day, for we are, as you + see, full of work taking on board stores. If it please you to stay and + watch what is doing here you are heartily welcome, but please tell the + others that they had best not come off until late in the evening, by which + time I will do what I can to have a place ready for them to sleep. We + shall sail at the turn of the tide, which will be at three o'clock in the + morning." + </p> + <p> + Oliphant wrote a few lines to the gentlemen on shore, telling them that + the captain desired that none should come on board until the evening, and + having sent it off by their boatmen, telling them to return in time to + take them back to dinner, he and Cyril mounted to the poop and surveyed + the scene round them. The ship was surrounded with lighters and boats from + the dockyards, and from these casks and barrels, boxes and cases, were + being swung on board by blocks from the yards, or rolled in at the + port-holes. A large number of men were engaged at the work, and as fast as + the stores came on board they were seized by the sailors and carried down + into the hold, the provisions piled in tiers of barrels, the powder-kegs + packed in the magazine. + </p> + <p> + "'Tis like an ant-hill," Cyril said. "'Tis just as I have seen when a nest + has been disturbed. Every ant seizes a white egg as big as itself, and + rushes off with it to the passage below." + </p> + <p> + "They work bravely," his companion said. "Every man seems to know that it + is important that the ship should be filled up by to-night. See! the other + four vessels lying above us are all alike at work, and may, perhaps, start + with us in the morning. The other ships are busy, too, but not as we are. + I suppose they will take them in hand when they have got rid of us." + </p> + <p> + "I am not surprised that the captain does not want idlers here, for, + except ourselves, every man seems to have his appointed work." + </p> + <p> + "I feel half inclined to take off my doublet and to go and help to roll + those big casks up the planks." + </p> + <p> + "I fancy, Sydney, we should be much more in the way there than here. There + is certainly no lack of men, and your strength and mine together would not + equal that of one of those strong fellows; besides, we are learning + something here. It is good to see how orderly the work is being carried + on, for, in spite of the number employed, there is no confusion. You see + there are three barges on each side; the upper tiers of barrels and bales + are being got on board through the portholes, while the lower ones are + fished up from the bottom by the ropes from the yards and swung into the + waist, and so passed below; and as fast as one barge is unloaded another + drops alongside to take its place." + </p> + <p> + They returned to the inn to dinner, after which they paid a visit to the + victualling yard and dockyard, where work was everywhere going on. After + supper they, with the other gentlemen for Prince Rupert's ship, took boat + and went off together. They had learned that, while they would be + victualled on board, they must take with them wine and other matters they + required over and above the ship's fare. They had had a consultation with + the other gentlemen after dinner, and concluded that it would be best to + take but a small quantity of things, as they knew not how they would be + able to stow them away, and would have opportunities of getting, at + Gravesend or at Yarmouth, further stores, when they saw what things were + required. They therefore took only a cheese, some butter, and a case of + wine. As soon as they got on board they were taken below. They found that + a curtain of sail-cloth had been hung across the main deck, and hammocks + slung between the guns. Three or four lanterns were hung along the middle. + </p> + <p> + "This is all we can do for you, gentlemen," the officer who conducted them + down said. "Had we been going on a pleasure trip we could have knocked up + separate cabins, but as we must have room to work the guns, this cannot be + done. In the morning the sailors will take down these hammocks, and will + erect a table along the middle, where you will take your meals. At + present, as you see, we have only slung hammocks for you, but when you all + come on board there will be twenty. We have, so far, only a list of + sixteen, but as the Prince said that two or three more might come at the + last moment we have railed off space enough for ten hammocks on each side. + We will get the place cleaned for you to-morrow, but the last barge was + emptied but a few minutes since, and we could do naught but just sweep the + deck down. To-morrow everything shall be scrubbed and put in order." + </p> + <p> + "It will do excellently well," one of the gentlemen said. "We have not + come on board ship to get luxuries, and had we to sleep on the bare boards + you would hear no grumbling." + </p> + <p> + "Now, gentlemen, as I have shown you your quarters, will you come up with + me to the captain's cabin? He has bade me say that he will be glad if you + will spend an hour with him there before you retire to rest." + </p> + <p> + On their entering, the captain shook hands with Lord Oliphant and Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "I must apologise, gentlemen, for being short with you when you came on + board this morning; but my hands were full, and I had no time to be + polite. They say you can never get a civil answer from a housewife on her + washing-day, and it is the same thing with an officer on board a ship when + she is taking in her stores. However, that business is over, and now I am + glad to see you all, and will do my best to make you as comfortable as I + can, which indeed will not be much; for as we shall, I hope, be going into + action in the course of another ten days, the decks must all be kept + clear, and as we have the Prince on board, we have less cabin room than we + should have were we not an admiral's flagship." + </p> + <p> + Wine was placed on the table, and they had a pleasant chat. They learnt + that the Fleet was now ready for sea. + </p> + <p> + "Four ships will sail with ours to-morrow," the captain said, "and the + other five will be off the next morning. They have all their munitions on + board, and will take in the rest of their provisions to-morrow. The Dutch + had thought to take us by surprise, but from what we hear they are not so + forward as we, for things have been pushed on with great zeal at all our + ports, the war being generally popular with the nation, and especially + with the merchants, whose commerce has been greatly injured by the + pretensions and violence of the Dutch. The Portsmouth ships, and those + from Plymouth, are already on their way round to the mouth of the Thames, + and in a week we may be at sea. I only hope the Dutch will not be long + before they come out to fight us. However, we are likely to pick up a + great many prizes, and, next to fighting, you know, sailors like + prize-money." + </p> + <p> + After an hour's talk the five gentlemen went below to their hammocks, and + then to bed, with much laughter at the difficulty they had in mounting + into their swinging cots. + </p> + <p> + It was scarce daylight when they were aroused by a great stir on board the + ship, and, hastily putting on their clothes, went on deck. Already a crowd + of men were aloft loosening the sails. Others had taken their places in + boats in readiness to tow the ship, for the wind was, as yet, so light + that it was like she would scarce have steerage way, and there were many + sharp angles in the course down the river to be rounded, and shallows to + be avoided. A few minutes later the moorings were cast off, the sails + sheeted home, and the crew gave a great cheer, which was answered from the + dockyard, and from boats alongside, full of the relations and friends of + the sailors, who stood up and waved their hats and shouted good bye. + </p> + <p> + The sails still hung idly, but the tide swept the ship along, and the men + in the boats ahead simply lay on their oars until the time should come to + pull her head round in one direction or another. They had not long to + wait, for, as they reached the sharp corner at the end of the reach, + orders were shouted, the men bent to their oars, and the vessel was taken + round the curve until her head pointed east. Scarcely had they got under + way when they heard the cheer from the ship astern of them, and by the + time they had reached the next curve, off the village of Gillingham, the + other four ships had rounded the point behind them, and were following at + a distance of about a hundred yards apart. Soon afterwards the wind sprang + up and the sails bellied out, and the men in the boats had to row briskly + to keep ahead of the ship. The breeze continued until they passed + Sheerness, and presently they dropped anchor inside the Nore sands. There + they remained until the tide turned, and then sailed up the Thames to the + Hope, where some forty men-of-war were already at anchor. + </p> + <p> + The next morning some barges arrived from Tilbury, laden with soldiers, of + whom a hundred and fifty came on board, their quarters being on the main + deck on the other side of the canvas division. A cutter also brought down + a number of impressed men, twenty of whom were put on board the <i>Henrietta</i> + to complete her crew. Cyril was standing on the poop watching them come on + board, when he started as his eye fell on two of their number. One was + Robert Ashford; the other was Black Dick. They had doubtless returned from + Holland when war was declared. Robert Ashford had assumed the dress of a + sailor the better to disguise himself, and the two had been carried off + together from some haunt of sailors at Wapping. He pointed them out to his + friend Sydney. + </p> + <p> + "So those are the two scamps? The big one looks a truculent ruffian. Well, + they can do you no harm here, Cyril. I should let them stay and do their + share of the fighting, and then, when the voyage is over, if they have not + met with a better death than they deserve at the hands of the Dutch, you + can, if you like, denounce them, and have them handed over to the City + authorities." + </p> + <p> + "That I will do, as far as the big ruffian they call Black Dick is + concerned. He is a desperate villain, and for aught I know may have + committed many a murder, and if allowed to go free might commit many more. + Besides, I shall never feel quite safe as long as he is at large. As to + Robert Ashford, he is a knave, but I know no worse of him, and will + therefore let him go his way." + </p> + <p> + In the evening the other ships from Chatham came up, and the captain told + them later that the Earl of Sandwich, who was in command, would weigh + anchor in the morning, as the contingent from London, Chatham, and + Sheerness was now complete. Cyril thought that he had never seen a + prettier sight, as the Fleet, consisting of fifty men-of-war, of various + sizes, and eight merchant vessels that had been bought and converted into + fire-ships, got under way and sailed down the river. That night they + anchored off Felixstowe, and the next day proceeded, with a favourable + wind, to Yarmouth, where already a great number of ships were at anchor. + So far the five Volunteers had taken their meals with the captain, but as + the others would be coming on board, they were now to mess below, getting + fresh meat and vegetables from the shore as they required them. As to + other stores, they resolved to do nothing till the whole party arrived. + </p> + <p> + They had not long to wait, for, on the third day after their arrival, the + Duke of York and Prince Rupert, with a great train of gentlemen, arrived + in the town, and early the next morning embarked on board their respective + ships. A council was held by the Volunteers in their quarters, three of + their number were chosen as caterers, and, a contribution of three pounds + a head being agreed upon, these went ashore in one of the ship's boats, + and returned presently with a barrel or two of good biscuits, the + carcasses of five sheep, two or three score of ducks and chickens, and + several casks of wine, together with a large quantity of vegetables. The + following morning the signal was hoisted on the mast-head of the <i>Royal + Charles</i>, the Duke of York's flagship, for the Fleet to prepare to + weigh anchor, and they presently got under way in three squadrons, the red + under the special orders of the Duke, the white under Prince Rupert, and + the blue under the Earl of Sandwich. + </p> + <p> + The Fleet consisted of one hundred and nine men-of-war and frigates, and + twenty-eight fire-ships and ketches, manned by 21,006 seamen and soldiers. + They sailed across to the coast of Holland, and cruised, for a few days, + off Texel, capturing ten or twelve merchant vessels that tried to run in. + So far, the weather had been very fine, but there were now signs of a + change of weather. The sky became overcast, the wind rose rapidly, and the + signal was made for the Fleet to scatter, so that each vessel should have + more sea-room, and the chance of collision be avoided. By nightfall the + wind had increased to the force of a gale, and the vessels were soon + labouring heavily. Cyril and two or three of his comrades who, like + himself, did not suffer from sickness, remained on deck; the rest were + prostrate below. + </p> + <p> + For forty-eight hours the gale continued, and when it abated and the ships + gradually closed up round the three admirals' flags, it was found that + many had suffered sorely in the gale. Some had lost their upper spars, + others had had their sails blown away, some their bulwarks smashed in, and + two or three had lost their bowsprits. There was a consultation between + the admirals and the principal captains, and it was agreed that it was + best to sail back to England for repairs, as many of the ships were + unfitted to take their place in line of battle, and as the Dutch Fleet was + known to be fully equal to their own in strength, it would have been + hazardous to risk an engagement. So the ketches and some of the light + frigates were at once sent off to find the ships that had not yet joined, + and give them orders to make for Yarmouth, Lowestoft, or Harwich. All + vessels uninjured were to gather off Lowestoft, while the others were to + make for the other ports, repair their damages as speedily as possible, + and then rejoin at Lowestoft. + </p> + <p> + No sooner did the Dutch know that the English Fleet had sailed away than + they put their fleet to sea. It consisted of one hundred and twelve + men-of-war, and thirty fire-ships, and small craft manned by 22,365 + soldiers and sailors. It was commanded by Admiral Obdam, having under him + Tromp, Evertson, and other Dutch admirals. On their nearing England they + fell in with nine ships from Hamburg, with rich cargoes, and a convoy of a + thirty-four gun frigate. These they captured, to the great loss of the + merchants of London. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Henrietta</i> had suffered but little in the storm, and speedily + repaired her damages without going into port. With so much haste and + energy did the crews of the injured ships set to work at refitting them, + that in four days after the main body had anchored off Lowestoft, they + were rejoined by all the ships that had made for Harwich and Yarmouth. + </p> + <p> + At midnight on June 2nd, a fast-sailing fishing-boat brought in the news + that the Dutch Fleet were but a few miles away, sailing in that direction, + having apparently learnt the position of the English from some ship or + fishing-boat they had captured. + </p> + <p> + The trumpets on the admiral's ship at once sounded, and Prince Rupert and + the Earl of Sandwich immediately rowed to her. They remained but a few + minutes, and on their return to their respective vessels made the signals + for their captains to come on board. The order, at such an hour, was + sufficient to notify all that news must have been received of the + whereabouts of the Dutch Fleet, and by the time the captains returned to + their ships the crews were all up and ready to execute any order. At two + o'clock day had begun to break, and soon from the mastheads of several of + the vessels the look-out shouted that they could perceive the Dutch Fleet + but four miles away. A mighty cheer rose throughout the Fleet, and as it + subsided a gun from the <i>Royal Charles</i> gave the order to weigh + anchor, and a few minutes later the three squadrons, in excellent order, + sailed out to meet the enemy. + </p> + <p> + They did not, however, advance directly towards them, but bore up closely + into the wind until they had gained the weather gauge of the enemy. Having + obtained this advantage, the Duke flew the signal to engage. The + Volunteers were all in their places on the poop, being posted near the + rail forward, that they might be able either to run down the ladder to the + waist and aid to repel boarders, or to spring on to a Dutch ship should + one come alongside, and also that the afterpart of the poop, where Prince + Rupert and the captain had taken their places near the wheel, should be + free. The Prince himself had requested them so to station themselves. + </p> + <p> + "At other times, gentlemen, you are my good friends and comrades," he + said, "but, from the moment that the first gun fires, you are soldiers + under my orders; and I pray you take your station and remain there until I + call upon you for action, for my whole attention must be given to the + manoeuvring of the ship, and any movement or talking near me might + distract my thoughts. I shall strive to lay her alongside of the biggest + Dutchman I can pick out, and as soon as the grapnels are thrown, and their + sides grind together, you will have the post of honour, and will lead the + soldiers aboard her. Once among the Dutchmen, you will know what to do + without my telling you." + </p> + <p> + "'Tis a grand sight, truly, Cyril," Sydney said, in a low tone, as the + great fleets met each other. + </p> + <p> + "A grand sight, truly, Sydney, but a terrible one. I do not think I shall + mind when I am once at it, but at present I feel that, despite my efforts, + I am in a tremor, and that my knees shake as I never felt them before." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad you feel like that, Cyril, for I feel much like it myself, and + began to be afraid that I had, without knowing it, been born a coward. + There goes the first gun." + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, a puff of white smoke spouted out from the bows of one of the + Dutch ships, and a moment later the whole of their leading vessels opened + fire. There was a rushing sound overhead, and a ball passed through the + main topsail of the <i>Henrietta</i>. No reply was made by the English + ships until they passed in between the Dutchmen; then the <i>Henrietta</i> + poured her broadsides into the enemy on either side of her, receiving + theirs in return. There was a rending of wood, and a quiver through the + ship. One of the upper-deck-guns was knocked off its carriage, crushing + two of the men working it as it fell. Several others were hurt with + splinters, and the sails pierced with holes. Again and again as she + passed, did the <i>Henrietta</i> exchange broadsides with the Dutch + vessels, until—the two fleets having passed through each other—she + bore up, and prepared to repeat the manoeuvre. + </p> + <p> + "I feel all right now," Cyril said, "but I do wish I had something to do + instead of standing here useless. I quite envy the men there, stripped to + the waist, working the guns. There is that fellow Black Dick, by the gun + forward; he is a scoundrel, no doubt, but what strength and power he has! + I saw him put his shoulder under that gun just now, and slew it across by + sheer strength, so as to bear upon the stern of the Dutchman. I noticed + him and Robert looking up at me just before the first gun was fired, and + speaking together. I have no doubt he would gladly have pointed the gun at + me instead of at the enemy, for he knows that, if I denounce him, he will + get the due reward of his crimes." + </p> + <p> + As soon as the ships were headed round they passed through the Dutch as + before, and this manoeuvre was several times repeated. Up to one o'clock + in the day no great advantage had been gained on either side. Spars had + been carried away; there were yawning gaps in the bulwarks; portholes had + been knocked into one, guns dismounted, and many killed; but as yet no + vessel on either side had been damaged to an extent that obliged her to + strike her flag, or to fall out of the fighting line. There had been a + pause after each encounter, in which both fleets had occupied themselves + in repairing damages, as far as possible, reeving fresh ropes in place of + those that had been shot away, clearing the wreckage of fallen spars and + yards, and carrying the wounded below. Four of the Volunteers had been + struck down—two of them mortally wounded, but after the first + passage through the enemy's fleet, Prince Rupert had ordered them to arm + themselves with muskets from the racks, and to keep up a fire at the Dutch + ships as they passed, aiming specially at the man at the wheel. The order + had been a very welcome one, for, like Cyril, they had all felt inactivity + in such a scene to be a sore trial. They were now ranged along on both + sides of the poop. + </p> + <p> + At one o'clock Lord Sandwich signalled to the Blue Squadron to close up + together as they advanced, as before, against the enemy's line. His + position at the time was in the centre, and his squadron, sailing close + together, burst into the Dutch line before their ships could make any + similar disposition. Having thus broken it asunder, instead of passing + through it, the squadron separated, and the ships, turning to port and + starboard, each engaged an enemy. The other two squadrons similarly ranged + up among the Dutch, and the battle now became furious all along the line. + Fire-ships played an important part in the battles of the time, and the + thoughts of the captain of a ship were not confined to struggles with a + foe of equal size, but were still more engrossed by the need for avoiding + any fire-ship that might direct its course towards him. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had now no time to give a thought as to what was passing elsewhere. + The <i>Henrietta</i> had ranged up alongside a Dutch vessel of equal size, + and was exchanging broadsides with her. All round were vessels engaged in + an equally furious encounter. The roar of the guns and the shouts of the + seamen on both sides were deafening. One moment the vessel reeled from the + recoil of her own guns, the next she quivered as the balls of the enemy + crashed through her sides. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly, above the din, Cyril heard the voice of Prince Rupert sound like + a trumpet. + </p> + <p> + "Hatchets and pikes on the starboard quarter! Draw in the guns and keep + off this fire-ship." + </p> + <p> + Laying their muskets against the bulwarks, he and Sydney sprang to the + mizzen-mast, and each seized a hatchet from those ranged against it. They + then rushed to the starboard side, just as a small ship came out through + the cloud of smoke that hung thickly around them. + </p> + <p> + There was a shock as she struck the <i>Henrietta</i>, and then, as she + glided alongside, a dozen grapnels were thrown by men on her yards. The + instant they had done so, the men disappeared, sliding down the ropes and + running aft to their boat. Before the last leaped in he stooped. A flash + of fire ran along the deck, there was a series of sharp explosions, and + then a bright flame sprang up from the hatchways, ran up the shrouds and + ropes, that had been soaked with oil and tar, and in a moment the sails + were on fire. In spite of the flames, a score of men sprang on to the + rigging of the <i>Henrietta</i> and cut the ropes of the grapnels, which, + as yet—so quickly had the explosion followed their throwing—had + scarce begun to check the way the fire-ship had on her as she came up. + </p> + <p> + Cyril, having cast over a grapnel that had fallen on the poop, looked down + on the fire-ship as she drifted along. The deck, which, like everything + else, had been smeared with tar, was in a blaze, but the combustible had + not been carried as far as the helm, where doubtless the captain had stood + to direct her course. A sudden thought struck him. He ran along the poop + until opposite the stern of the fire-ship, climbed over the bulwark and + leapt down on to the deck, some fifteen feet below him. Then he seized the + helm and jammed it hard down. The fire-ship had still steerage way on her, + and he saw her head at once begin to turn away from the <i>Henrietta</i>; + the movement was aided by the latter's crew, who, with poles and oars, + pushed her off. + </p> + <p> + The heat was terrific, but Cyril's helmet and breast-piece sheltered him + somewhat; yet though he shielded his face with his arm, he felt that it + would speedily become unbearable. His eye fell upon a coil of rope at his + feet. Snatching it up, he fastened it to the tiller and then round a + belaying-pin in the bulwark, caught up a bucket with a rope attached, + threw it over the side and soused its contents over the tiller-rope, then, + unbuckling the straps of his breast- and back-pieces, he threw them off, + cast his helmet on the deck, blistering his hands as he did so, and leapt + overboard. It was with a delicious sense of coolness that he rose to the + surface and looked round. Hitherto he had been so scorched by the flame + and smothered by the smoke that it was with difficulty he had kept his + attention upon what he was doing, and would doubtless, in another minute, + have fallen senseless. The plunge into the sea seemed to restore his + faculties, and as he came up he looked eagerly to see how far success had + attended his efforts. + </p> + <p> + He saw with delight that the bow of the fire-ship was thirty or forty feet + distant from the side of the <i>Henrietta</i> and her stern half that + distance. Two or three of the sails of the man-of-war had caught fire, but + a crowd of seamen were beating the flames out of two of them while + another, upon which the fire had got a better hold, was being cut away + from its yard. As he turned to swim to the side of the <i>Henrietta</i>, + three or four ropes fell close to him. He twisted one of these round his + body, and, a minute later, was hauled up into the waist. He was saluted + with a tremendous cheer, and was caught up by three or four strong + fellows, who, in spite of his remonstrances, carried him up on to the + poop. Prince Rupert was standing on the top of the ladder. + </p> + <p> + "Nobly done, Sir Cyril!" he exclaimed. "You have assuredly saved the <i>Henrietta</i> + and all our lives. A minute later, and we should have been on fire beyond + remedy. But I will speak more to you when we have finished with the + Dutchman on the other side." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV — HONOURABLE SCARS + </h2> + <p> + During the time that the greater part of the crew of the <i>Henrietta</i> + had been occupied with the fire-ship, the enemy had redoubled their + efforts, and as the sailors returned to their guns, the mizzen-mast fell + with a crash. A minute later, a Dutch man-of-war ran alongside, fired a + broadside, and grappled. Then her crew, springing over the bulwarks, + poured on to the deck of the <i>Henrietta</i>. They were met boldly by the + soldiers, who had hitherto borne no part in the fight, and who, enraged at + the loss they had been compelled to suffer, fell upon the enemy with fury. + For a moment, however, the weight of numbers of the Dutchmen bore them + back, but the sailors, who had at first been taken by surprise, snatched + up their boarding pikes and axes. + </p> + <p> + Prince Rupert, with the other officers and Volunteers, dashed into the + thick of the fray, and, step by step, the Dutchmen were driven back, until + they suddenly gave way and rushed back to their own ship. The English + would have followed them, but the Dutch who remained on board their ship, + seeing that the fight was going against their friends, cut the ropes of + the grapnels, and the ships drifted apart, some of the last to leave the + deck of the <i>Henrietta</i> being forced to jump into the sea. The + cannonade was at once renewed on both sides, but the Dutch had had enough + of it—having lost very heavily in men—and drew off from the + action. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had joined in the fray. He had risen to his feet and drawn his + sword, but he found himself strangely weak. His hands were blistered and + swollen, his face was already so puffed that he could scarce see out of + his eyes; still, he had staggered down the steps to the waist, and, + recovering his strength from the excitement, threw himself into the fray. + </p> + <p> + Scarce had he done so, when a sailor next to him fell heavily against him, + shot through the head by one of the Dutch soldiers. Cyril staggered, and + before he could recover himself, a Dutch sailor struck at his head. He + threw up his sword to guard the blow, but the guard was beaten down as if + it had been a reed. It sufficed, however, slightly to turn the blow, which + fell first on the side of the head, and then, glancing down, inflicted a + terrible wound on the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + He fell at once, unconscious, and, when he recovered his senses, found + himself laid out on the poop, where Sydney, assisted by two of the other + gentlemen, had carried him. His head and shoulder had already been + bandaged, the Prince having sent for his doctor to come up from below to + attend upon him. + </p> + <p> + The battle was raging with undiminished fury all round, but, for the + moment, the <i>Henrietta</i> was not engaged, and her crew were occupied + in cutting away the wreckage of the mizzen-mast, and trying to repair the + more important of the damages that she had suffered. Carpenters were + lowered over the side, and were nailing pieces of wood over the shot-holes + near the water-line. Men swarmed aloft knotting and splicing ropes and + fishing damaged spars. + </p> + <p> + Sydney, who was standing a short distance away, at once came up to him. + </p> + <p> + "How are you, Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "My head sings, and my shoulder aches, but I shall do well enough. Please + get me lifted up on to that seat by the bulwark, so that I can look over + and see what is going on." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think you are strong enough to sit up, Cyril." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes I am; besides, I can lean against the bulwark." + </p> + <p> + Cyril was placed in the position he wanted, and, leaning his arm on the + bulwark and resting his head on it, was able to see what was passing. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly a tremendous explosion was heard a quarter of a mile away. + </p> + <p> + "The Dutch admiral's ship has blown up," one of the men aloft shouted, and + a loud cheer broke from the crew. + </p> + <p> + It was true. The Duke of York in the <i>Royal Charles</i>, of eighty guns, + and the <i>Eendracht</i>, of eighty-four, the flagship of Admiral Obdam, + had met and engaged each other fiercely. For a time the Dutchmen had the + best of it. A single shot killed the Earl of Falmouth, Lord Muskerry, and + Mr. Boyle, three gentlemen Volunteers, who at the moment were standing + close to the Duke, and the <i>Royal Charles</i> suffered heavily until a + shot from one of her guns struck the Dutchman's magazine, and the <i>Eendracht</i> + blew up, only five men being rescued out of the five hundred that were on + board of her. + </p> + <p> + This accident in no small degree decided the issue of the engagement, for + the Dutch at once fell into confusion. Four of their ships, a few hundred + yards from the <i>Henrietta</i>, fell foul of each other, and while the + crews were engaged in trying to separate them an English fire-ship sailed + boldly up and laid herself alongside. A moment later the flames shot up + high, and the boat with the crew of the fire-ship rowed to the <i>Henrietta</i>. + The flames instantly spread to the Dutch men-of-war, and the sailors were + seen jumping over in great numbers. Prince Rupert ordered the boats to be + lowered, but only one was found to be uninjured. This was manned and + pushed off at once, and, with others from British vessels near, rescued a + good many of the Dutch sailors. + </p> + <p> + Still the fight was raging all round; but a short time afterwards three + other of the finest ships in the Dutch Fleet ran into each other. Another + of the English fire-ships hovering near observed the opportunity, and was + laid alongside, with the same success as her consort, the three men-of-war + being all destroyed. + </p> + <p> + This took place at some distance from the <i>Henrietta</i>, but the + English vessels near them succeeded in saving, in their boats, a portion + of the crews. The Dutch ship <i>Orange</i>, of seventy-five guns, was + disabled after a sharp fight with the <i>Mary</i>, and was likewise burnt. + Two Dutch vice-admirals were killed, and a panic spread through the Dutch + Fleet. About eight o'clock in the evening between thirty and forty of + their ships made off in a body, and the rest speedily followed. During the + fight and the chase eighteen Dutch ships were taken, though some of these + afterwards escaped, as the vessels to which they had struck joined the + rest in the chase. Fourteen were sunk, besides those burnt and blown up. + Only one English ship, the <i>Charity</i>, had struck, having, at the + beginning of the fight been attacked by three Dutch vessels, and lost the + greater part of her men, and was then compelled to surrender to a Dutch + vessel of considerably greater strength that came up and joined the + others. The English loss was, considering the duration of the fight, + extremely small, amounting to but 250 killed, and 340 wounded. Among the + killed were the Earl of Marlborough, the Earl of Portland, who was present + as a Volunteer, Rear-Admiral Sampson, and Vice-Admiral Lawson, the latter + of whom died after the fight, from his wounds. + </p> + <p> + The pursuit of the Dutch was continued for some hours, and then terminated + abruptly, owing to a Member of Parliament named Brounker, who was in the + suite of the Duke of York, giving the captain of the <i>Royal Charles</i> + orders, which he falsely stated emanated from the Duke, for the pursuit to + be abandoned. For this he was afterwards expelled the House of Commons, + and was ordered to be impeached, but after a time the matter was suffered + to drop. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the battle was over Cyril was taken down to a hammock below. He + was just dozing off to sleep when Sydney came to him. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry to disturb you, Cyril, but an officer tells me that a man who + is mortally wounded wishes to speak to you; and from his description I + think it is the fellow you call Black Dick. I thought it right to tell + you, but I don't think you are fit to go to see him." + </p> + <p> + "I will go," Cyril said, "if you will lend me your arm. I should like to + hear what the poor wretch has to say." + </p> + <p> + "He lies just below; the hatchway is but a few yards distant." + </p> + <p> + There had been no attempt to remove Cyril's clothes, and, by the aid of + Lord Oliphant and of a sailor he called to his aid, he made his way below, + and was led through the line of wounded, until a doctor, turning round, + said,— + </p> + <p> + "This is the man who wishes to see you, Sir Cyril." + </p> + <p> + Although a line of lanterns hung from the beams, so nearly blind was he + that Cyril could scarce distinguish the man's features. + </p> + <p> + "I have sent for you," the latter said faintly, "to tell you that if it + hadn't been for your jumping down on to that fire-ship you would not have + lived through this day's fight. I saw that you recognised me, and knew + that, as soon as we went back, you would hand us over to the constables. + So I made up my mind that I would run you through in the <i>mêlée</i> if + we got hand to hand with the Dutchmen, or would put a musket-ball into you + while the firing was going on. But when I saw you standing there with the + flames round you, giving your life, as it seemed, to save the ship, I felt + that, even if I must be hung for it, I could not bring myself to hurt so + brave a lad; so there is an end of that business. Robert Ashford was + killed by a gun that was knocked from its carriage, so you have got rid of + us both. I thought I should like to tell you before I went that the brave + action you did saved your life, and that, bad as I am, I had yet heart + enough to feel that I would rather take hanging than kill you." + </p> + <p> + The last words had been spoken in a scarcely audible whisper. The man + closed his eyes; and the doctor, laying his hand on Cyril's arm, said,— + </p> + <p> + "You had better go back to your hammock now, Sir Cyril. He will never + speak again. In a few minutes the end will come." + </p> + <p> + Cyril spent a restless night. The wind was blowing strongly from the + north, and the crews had hard work to keep the vessels off the shore. His + wounds did not pain him much, but his hands, arms, face, and legs smarted + intolerably, for his clothes had been almost burnt off him, and, + refreshing as the sea-bath had been at the moment, it now added to the + smarting of the wounds. + </p> + <p> + In the morning Prince Rupert came down to see him. + </p> + <p> + "It was madness of you to have joined in that <i>mêlée</i>, lad, in the + state in which you were. I take the blame on myself in not ordering you to + remain behind; but when the Dutchmen poured on board I had no thought of + aught but driving them back again. It would have marred our pleasure in + the victory we have won had you fallen, for to you we all owe our lives + and the safety of the ship. No braver deed was performed yesterday than + yours. I fear it will be some time before you are able to fight by my side + again; but, at least, you have done your share, and more, were the war to + last a lifetime." + </p> + <p> + Cyril was in less pain now, for the doctor had poured oil over his burns, + and had wrapped up his hands in soft bandages. + </p> + <p> + "It was the thought of a moment, Prince," he said. "I saw the fire-ship + had steerage way on her, and if the helm were put down she would drive + away from our side, so without stopping to think about it one way or the + other, I ran along to the stern, and jumped down to her tiller." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, lad, it was but a moment's thought, no doubt, but it is one thing to + think, and another to execute, and none but the bravest would have + ventured that leap on to the fire-ship. By to-morrow morning we shall be + anchored in the river. Would you like to be placed in the hospital at + Sheerness, or to be taken up to London?" + </p> + <p> + "I would rather go to London, if I may," Cyril said. "I know that I shall + be well nursed at Captain Dave's, and hope, erelong, to be able to + rejoin." + </p> + <p> + "Not for some time, lad—not for some time. Your burns will doubtless + heal apace, but the wound in your shoulder is serious. The doctor says + that the Dutchman's sword has cleft right through your shoulder-bone. 'Tis + well that it is your left, for it may be that you will never have its full + use again. You are not afraid of the Plague, are you? for on the day we + left town there was a rumour that it had at last entered the City." + </p> + <p> + "I am not afraid of it," Cyril said; "and if it should come to Captain + Dowsett's house, I would rather be there, that I may do what I can to help + those who were so kind to me." + </p> + <p> + "Just as you like, lad. Do not hurry to rejoin. It is not likely there + will be any fighting for some time, for it will be long before the Dutch + are ready to take the sea again after the hammering we have given them, + and all there will be to do will be to blockade their coast and to pick up + their ships from foreign ports as prizes." + </p> + <p> + The next morning Cyril was placed on board a little yacht, called the <i>Fan + Fan</i>, belonging to the Prince, and sailed up the river, the ship's + company mustering at the side and giving him a hearty cheer. The wind was + favourable, and they arrived that afternoon in town. According to the + Prince's instructions, the sailors at once placed Cyril on a litter that + had been brought for the purpose, and carried him up to Captain Dowsett's. + </p> + <p> + The City was in a state of agitation. The news of the victory had arrived + but a few hours before, and the church bells were all ringing, flags were + flying, the shops closed, and the people in the streets. John Wilkes came + down in answer to the summons of the bell. + </p> + <p> + "Hullo!" he said; "whom have we here?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know me, John?" Cyril said. + </p> + <p> + John gave a start of astonishment. + </p> + <p> + "By St. Anthony, it is Master Cyril! At least, it is his voice, though it + is little I can see of him, and what I see in no way resembles him." + </p> + <p> + "It is Sir Cyril Shenstone," the captain of the <i>Fan Fan</i>, who had + come with the party, said sternly, feeling ruffled at the familiarity with + which this rough-looking servitor of a City trader spoke of the gentleman + in his charge. "It is Sir Cyril Shenstone, as brave a gentleman as ever + drew sword, and who, as I hear, saved Prince Rupert's ship from being + burnt by the Dutchmen." + </p> + <p> + "He knows me," John Wilkes said bluntly, "and he knows no offence is + meant. The Captain and his dame, and Mistress Nellie are all out, Sir + Cyril, but I will look after you till they return. Bring him up, lads. I + am an old sailor myself, and fought the Dutch under Blake and Monk more + than once." + </p> + <p> + He led the way upstairs into the best of the spare rooms. Here Cyril was + laid on a bed. He thanked the sailors heartily for the care they had taken + of him, and the captain handed a letter to John, saying,— + </p> + <p> + "The young Lord Oliphant asked me to give this to Captain Dowsett, but as + he is not at home I pray you to give it him when he returns." + </p> + <p> + As soon as they had gone, John returned to the bed. + </p> + <p> + "This is terrible, Master Cyril. What have they been doing to you? I can + see but little of your face for those bandages, but your eyes look mere + slits, your flesh is all red and swollen, your eyebrows have gone, your + arms and legs are all swathed up in bandages—Have you been blown up + with gunpowder?—for surely no wound could have so disfigured you." + </p> + <p> + "I have not been blown up, John, but I was burnt by the flames of a Dutch + fire-ship that came alongside. It is a matter that a fortnight will set + right, though I doubt not that I am an unpleasant-looking object at + present, and it will be some time before my hair grows again." + </p> + <p> + "And you are not hurt otherwise, Master?" John asked anxiously. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I am hurt gravely enough, though not so as to imperil my life. I + have a wound on the side of my head, and the same blow, as the doctor + says, cleft through my shoulder-bone." + </p> + <p> + "I had best go and get a surgeon at once," John said; "though it will be + no easy matter, for all the world is agog in the streets." + </p> + <p> + "Leave it for the present, John. There is no need whatever for haste. In + that trunk of mine is a bottle of oils for the burns, though most of the + sore places are already beginning to heal over, and the doctor said that I + need not apply it any more, unless I found that they smarted too much for + bearing. As for the other wounds, they are strapped up and bandaged, and + he said that unless they inflamed badly, they would be best let alone for + a time. So sit down quietly, and let me hear the news." + </p> + <p> + "The news is bad enough, though the Plague has not yet entered the City." + </p> + <p> + "The Prince told me that there was a report, before he came on board at + Lowestoft, that it had done so." + </p> + <p> + "No, it is not yet come; but people are as frightened as if it was raging + here. For the last fortnight they have been leaving in crowds from the + West End, and many of the citizens are also beginning to move. They + frighten themselves like a parcel of children. The comet seemed to many a + sign of great disaster." + </p> + <p> + Cyril laughed. + </p> + <p> + "If it could be seen only in London there might be something in it, but as + it can be seen all over Europe, it is hard to say why it should augur evil + to London especially. It was shining in the sky three nights ago when we + were chasing the Dutch, and they had quite as good reason for thinking it + was a sign of misfortune to them as have the Londoners." + </p> + <p> + "That is true enough," John Wilkes agreed; "though, in truth, I like not + to see the' thing in the sky myself. Then people have troubled their heads + greatly because, in Master Lilly's Almanack, and other books of + prediction, a great pestilence is foretold." + </p> + <p> + "It needed no great wisdom for that," Cyril said, "seeing that the Plague + has been for some time busy in foreign parts, and that it was here, though + not so very bad, in the winter, when these books would have been written." + </p> + <p> + "Then," John Wilkes went on, "there is a man going through the streets, + night and day. He speaks to no one, but cries out continually, 'Oh! the + great and dreadful God!' This troubles many men's hearts greatly." + </p> + <p> + "It is a pity, John, that the poor fellow is not taken and shut up in some + place where madmen are kept. Doubtless, it is some poor coward whose brain + has been turned by fright. People who are frightened by such a thing as + that must be poor-witted creatures indeed." + </p> + <p> + "That may be, Master Cyril, but methinks it is as they say, one fool makes + many. People get together and bemoan themselves till their hearts fail + them altogether. And yet, methinks they are not altogether without reason, + for if the pestilence is so heavy without the walls, where the streets are + wider and the people less crowded than here, it may well be that we shall + have a terrible time of it in the City when it once passes the walls." + </p> + <p> + "That may well be, John, but cowardly fear will not make things any + better. We knew, when we sailed out against the Dutch the other day, that + very many would not see the setting sun, yet I believe there was not one + man throughout the Fleet who behaved like a coward." + </p> + <p> + "No doubt, Master Cyril; but there is a difference. One can fight against + men, but one cannot fight against the pestilence, and I do not believe + that if the citizens knew that a great Dutch army was marching on London, + and that they would have to withstand a dreadful siege, they would be + moved with fear as they are now." + </p> + <p> + "That may be so," Cyril agreed. "Now, John, I think that I could sleep for + a bit." + </p> + <p> + "Do so, Master, and I will go into the kitchen and see what I can do to + make you a basin of broth when you awake; for the girl has gone out too. + She wanted to see what was going on in the streets; and as I had sooner + stay quietly at home I offered to take her place, as the shop was shut and + I had nothing to do. Maybe by the time you wake again Captain Dave and the + others will be back from their cruise." + </p> + <p> + It was dark when Cyril woke at the sound of the bell. He heard voices and + movements without, and then the door was quietly opened. + </p> + <p> + "I am awake," he said. "You see I have taken you at your word, and come + back to be patched up." + </p> + <p> + "You are heartily welcome," Mrs. Dowsett said. "Nellie, bring the light. + Cyril is awake. We were sorry indeed when John told us that you had come + in our absence. It was but a cold welcome for you to find that we were all + out." + </p> + <p> + "There was nothing I needed, madam. Had there been, John would have done + it for me." + </p> + <p> + Nellie now appeared at the door with the light, and gave an exclamation of + horror as she approached the bedside. + </p> + <p> + "It is not so bad as it looks, Nellie," Cyril said. "Not that I know how + it looks, for I have not seen myself in a glass since I left here; but I + can guess that I am an unpleasant object to look at." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Dowsett made a sign to Nellie to be silent. + </p> + <p> + "John told us that you were badly burned and were all wrapped up in + bandages, but we did not expect to find you so changed. However, that will + soon pass off, I hope." + </p> + <p> + "I expect I shall be all right in another week, save for this wound in my + shoulder. As for that on my head, it is but of slight consequence. My + skull was thick enough to save my brain." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Master Cyril," Captain Dave said heartily, as he entered the room + with a basin of broth in his hand, and then stopped abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Captain Dave, here I am, battered out of all shape, you see, but + not seriously damaged in my timbers. There, you see, though I have only + been a fortnight at sea, I am getting quite nautical." + </p> + <p> + "That is right, lad—that is right," Captain Dave said, a little + unsteadily. "My dame and Nellie will soon put you into ship-shape trim + again. So you got burnt, I hear, by one of those rascally Dutch + fire-ships? and John tells me that the captain of the sailors who carried + you here said that you had gained mighty credit for yourself." + </p> + <p> + "I did my best, as everyone did, Captain Dave. There was not a man on + board the Fleet who did not do his duty, or we should never have beaten + the Dutchmen so soundly." + </p> + <p> + "You had better not talk any more," Mrs. Dowsett said. "You are in my + charge now, and my first order is that you must keep very quiet, or else + you will be having fever come on. You had best take a little of this broth + now. Nellie will sit with you while I go out to prepare you a cooling + drink." + </p> + <p> + "I will take a few spoonfuls of the soup since John has taken the trouble + to prepare it for me," Cyril said; "though, indeed, my lips are so parched + and swollen that the cooling drink will be much more to my taste." + </p> + <p> + "I think it were best first, dame," the Captain said, "that John and I + should get him comfortably into bed, instead of lying there wrapped up in + the blanket in which they brought him ashore. The broth will be none the + worse for cooling a bit." + </p> + <p> + "That will be best," his wife agreed. "I will fetch some more pillows, so + that we can prop him up. He can swallow more comfortably so, and will + sleep all the better when he lies down again." + </p> + <p> + As soon as Cyril was comfortably settled John Wilkes was sent to call in a + doctor, who, after examining him, said that the burns were doing well, and + that he would send in some cooling lotion to be applied to them + frequently. As to the wounds, he said they had been so skilfully bandaged + that it were best to leave them alone, unless great pain set in. + </p> + <p> + Another four days, and Cyril's face had so far recovered its usual + condition that the swelling was almost abated, and the bandages could be + removed. The peak of the helmet had sheltered it a good deal, and it had + suffered less than his hands and arms. Captain Dave and John had sat up + with him by turns at night, while the Dame and her daughter had taken care + of him during the day. He had slept a great deal, and had not been allowed + to talk at all. This prohibition was now removed, as the doctor said that + the burns were now all healing fast, and that he no longer had any fear of + fever setting in. + </p> + <p> + "By the way, Captain," John Wilkes said, that day, at dinner, "I have just + bethought me of this letter, that was given me by the sailor who brought + Cyril here. It is for you, from young Lord Oliphant. It has clean gone out + of my mind till now. I put it in the pocket of my doublet, and have + forgotten it ever since." + </p> + <p> + "No harm can have come of the delay, John," Captain Dave said. "It was + thoughtful of the lad. He must have been sure that Cyril would not be in a + condition to tell us aught of the battle, and he may have sent us some + details of it, for the Gazette tells us little enough, beyond the ships + taken and the names of gentlemen and officers killed. Here, Nellie, do you + read it. It seems a long epistle, and my eyes are not as good as they + were." + </p> + <p> + Nellie took the letter and read aloud:— + </p> + <p> + "'DEAR AND WORTHY SIR,—I did not think when I was so pleasantly + entertained at your house that it would befall me to become your + correspondent, but so it has happened, for, Sir Cyril being sorely hurt, + and in no state to tell you how the matter befell him—if indeed his + modesty would allow him, which I greatly doubt—it is right that you + should know how the business came about, and what great credit Sir Cyril + has gained for himself. In the heat of the fight, when we were briskly + engaged in exchanging broadsides with a Dutchman of our own size, one of + their fire-ships, coming unnoticed through the smoke, slipped alongside of + us, and, the flames breaking out, would speedily have destroyed us, as + indeed they went near doing. The grapnels were briskly thrown over, but + she had already touched our sides, and the flames were blowing across us + when Sir Cyril, perceiving that she had still some way on her, sprang down + on to her deck and put over the helm. She was then a pillar of flame, and + the decks, which were plentifully besmeared with pitch, were all in a + blaze, save just round the tiller where her captain had stood to steer + her. It was verily a furnace, and it seemed impossible that one could + stand there for only half a minute and live. Everyone on board was filled + with astonishment, and the Prince called out loudly that he had never seen + a braver deed. As the fire-ship drew away from us, we saw Sir Cyril fasten + the helm down with a rope, and then, lowering a bucket over, throw water + on to it; then he threw off his helmet and armour—his clothes being, + by this time, all in a flame—and sprang into the sea, the fire-ship + being now well nigh her own length from us. She had sheered off none too + soon, for some of our sails were on fire, and it was with great difficulty + that we succeeded in cutting them from the yards and so saving the ship. + </p> + <p> + "'All, from the Prince down, say that no finer action was ever performed, + and acknowledge that we all owe our lives, and His Majesty owes his ship, + to it. Then, soon after we had hauled Sir Cyril on board, the Dutchmen + boarded us, and there was a stiff fight, all hands doing their best to + beat them back, in which we succeeded. + </p> + <p> + "'Sir Cyril, though scarce able to stand, joined in the fray, unnoticed by + us all, who in the confusion had not thought of him, and being, indeed, + scarce able to hold his sword, received a heavy wound, of which, however, + the doctor has all hopes that he will make a good recovery. + </p> + <p> + "'It would have done you good to hear how the whole crew cheered Sir Cyril + as we dragged him on board. The Prince is mightily taken with him, and is + sending him to London in his own yacht, where I feel sure that your good + dame and fair daughter will do all that they can to restore him to health. + As soon as I get leave—though I do not know when that will be, for + we cannot say as yet how matters will turn out, or what ships will keep + the sea—I shall do myself the honour of waiting upon you. I pray you + give my respectful compliments to Mrs. Dowsett and Mistress Nellie, who + are, I hope, enjoying good health. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "'Your servant to command, + + "'SYDNEY OLIPHANT.'" +</pre> + <p> + The tears were standing in Nellie's eyes, and her voice trembled as she + read. When she finished she burst out crying. + </p> + <p> + "There!" John Wilkes exclaimed, bringing his fist down upon the table. "I + knew, by what that skipper said, the lad had been doing something quite + out of the way, but when I spoke to him about it before you came in he + only said that he had tried his best to do his duty, just as every other + man in the Fleet had done. Who would have thought, Captain Dave, that that + quiet young chap, who used to sit down below making out your accounts, was + going to turn out a hero?" + </p> + <p> + "Who, indeed?" the Captain said, wiping his eyes with the back of his + hands. "Why, he wasn't more than fifteen then, and, as you say, such a + quiet fellow. He used to sit there and write, and never speak unless I + spoke to him. 'Tis scarce two years ago, and look what he has done! Who + would have thought it? I can't finish my breakfast," he went on, getting + up from his seat, "till I have gone in and shaken him by the hand." + </p> + <p> + "You had better not, David," Mrs. Dowsett said gently. "We had best say + but little to him about it now. We can let him know we have heard how he + came by his burns from Lord Oliphant, but do not let us make much of it. + Had he wished it he would have told us himself." + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave sat down again. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you are right, my dear. At any rate, till he is getting strong we + will not tell him what we think of him. Anyhow, it can't do any harm to + tell him we know it, and may do him good, for it is clear he does not like + telling it himself, and may be dreading our questioning about the affair." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Dowsett and Nellie went into Cyril's room as soon as they had + finished breakfast. Captain Dave followed them a few minutes later. + </p> + <p> + "We have been hearing how you got burnt," he began. "Your friend, Lord + Oliphant, sent a letter about it by the skipper of his yacht. That stupid + fellow, John, has been carrying it about ever since, and only remembered + it just now, when we were at breakfast. It was a plucky thing to do, lad." + </p> + <p> + "It turned out a very lucky one," Cyril said hastily, "for it was the + means of saving my life." + </p> + <p> + "Saving your life, lad! What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + Cyril then told how Robert Ashford and Black Dick had been brought on + board as impressed men, how the former had been killed, and the confession + that Black Dick had made to him before dying. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +"He said he had made up his mind to kill me during the fight, but +that, after I had risked my life to save the <i>Henrietta</i>, he was +ashamed to kill me, and that, rather than do so, he had resolved to +take his chance of my denouncing him when he returned to land." + + "There was some good in the knave, then," Captain Dave said. "Yes, +it was a fortunate as well as a brave action, as it turned out." +</pre> + <p> + "Fortunate in one respect, but not in another," Cyril put in, anxious to + prevent the conversation reverting to the question of his bravery. "I put + down this wound in my shoulder to it, for if I had been myself I don't + think I should have got hurt. I guarded the blow, but I was so shaky that + he broke my guard down as if I had been a child, though I think that it + did turn the blow a little, and saved it from falling fair on my skull. + Besides, I should have had my helmet and armour on if it had not been for + my having to take a swim. So, you see, Captain Dave, things were pretty + equally balanced, and there is no occasion to say anything more about + them." + </p> + <p> + "We have one piece of bad news to tell you, Cyril," Mrs. Dowsett remarked, + in order to give the conversation the turn which she saw he wished for. + "We heard this morning that the Plague has come at last into the City. Dr. + Burnet was attacked yesterday." + </p> + <p> + "That is bad news indeed, Dame, though it was not to be expected that it + would spare the City. If you will take my advice, you will go away at + once, before matters get worse, for if the Plague gets a hold here the + country people will have nothing to do with Londoners, fearing that they + will bring the infection among them." + </p> + <p> + "We shall not go until you are fit to go with us, Cyril," Nellie said + indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "Then you will worry me into a fever," Cyril replied. "I am getting on + well now, and as you said, when you were talking of it before, you should + leave John in charge of the house and shop, he will be able to do + everything that is necessary for me. If you stay here, and the Plague + increases, I shall keep on worrying myself at the thought that you are + risking your lives needlessly for me, and if it should come into the + house, and any of you die, I shall charge myself all my life with having + been the cause of your death. I pray you, for my sake as well as your own, + to lose no time in going to the sister Captain Dave spoke of, down near + Gloucester." + </p> + <p> + "Do not agitate yourself," Mrs. Dowsett said gently, pressing him quietly + back on to the pillows from which he had risen in his excitement. "We will + talk it over, and see what is for the best. It is but a solitary case yet, + and may spread no further. In a few days we shall see how matters go. + Things have not come to a bad pass yet." + </p> + <p> + Cyril, however, was not to be consoled. Hitherto he had given + comparatively small thought to the Plague, but now that it was in the + City, and he felt that his presence alone prevented the family from + leaving, he worried incessantly over it. + </p> + <p> + "Your patient is not so well," the doctor said to Mrs. Dowsett, next + morning. "Yesterday he was quite free from fever—his hands were + cool; now they are dry and hard. If this goes on, I fear that we shall + have great trouble." + </p> + <p> + "He is worrying himself because we do not go out of town. We had, indeed, + made up our minds to do so, but we could not leave him here." + </p> + <p> + "Your nursing would be valuable certainly, but if he goes on as he is he + will soon be in a high fever; his wounds will grow angry and fester. While + yesterday he seemed in a fair way to recovery, I should be sorry to give + any favourable opinion as to what may happen if this goes on. Is there no + one who could take care of him if you went?" + </p> + <p> + "John Wilkes will remain behind, and could certainly be trusted to do + everything that you directed; but that is not like women, doctor." + </p> + <p> + "No, I am well aware of that; but if things go on well he will really not + need nursing, while, if fever sets in badly, the best nursing may not save + him. Moreover, wounds and all other ailments of this sort do badly at + present; the Plague in the air seems to affect all other maladies. If you + will take my advice, Dame, you will carry out your intention, and leave at + once. I hear there are several new cases of the Plague today in the City, + and those who can go should lose no time in doing so; but, even if not for + your own sakes, I should say go for that of your patient." + </p> + <p> + "Will you speak to my husband, doctor? I am ready to do whatever is best + for your patient, whom we love dearly, and regard almost as a son." + </p> + <p> + "If he were a son I should give the same advice. Yes, I will see Captain + Dowsett." + </p> + <p> + Half an hour later, Cyril was told what the doctor's advice had been, and, + seeing that he was bent on it, and that if they stayed they would do him + more harm than good, they resolved to start the next day for + Gloucestershire. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV — THE PLAGUE + </h2> + <p> + Reluctant as they were to leave Cyril, Mrs. Dowsett and her daughter + speedily saw that the doctor's advice was good. Cyril did not say much, + but an expression of restful satisfaction came over his face, and it was + not long before he fell into a quiet sleep that contrasted strongly with + the restless and fretful state in which he had passed the night. + </p> + <p> + "You see I was right, madam," the doctor said that evening. "The fever has + not quite left him, but he is a different man to what he was this morning; + another quiet night's rest, and he will regain the ground he has lost. I + think you can go in perfect comfort so far as he is concerned. Another + week and he will be up, if nothing occurs to throw him back again; but of + course it will be weeks before he can use his arm." + </p> + <p> + John Wilkes had been sent off as soon as it was settled that they would + go, and had bought, at Epping, a waggon and a pair of strong horses. It + had a tilt, and the ladies were to sleep in it on the journey, as it was + certain that, until they were far away from London, they would be unable + to obtain lodgings. A man was engaged to drive them down, and a sail and + two or three poles were packed in the waggon to make a tent for him and + Captain Dowsett. A store of provisions was cooked, and a cask of beer, + another of water, and a case of wine were also placed in. Mattresses were + laid down for the ladies to sit on during the day and to sleep on at + night; so they would be practically independent during the journey. Early + next morning they started. + </p> + <p> + "It seems heartless to leave you, Cyril," Nellie said, as they came in to + say good-bye. + </p> + <p> + "Not heartless at all," Cyril replied. "I know that you are going because + I wish it." + </p> + <p> + "It is more than wishing, you tiresome boy. We are going because you have + made up your mind that you will be ill if we don't. You are too weak to + quarrel with now, but when we meet again, tremble, for I warn you I shall + scold you terribly then." + </p> + <p> + "You shall scold me as much as you please, Nellie; I shall take it all + quite patiently." + </p> + <p> + Nellie and her mother went away in tears, and Captain Dave himself was a + good deal upset. They had thought the going away from home on such a long + journey would be a great trial, but this was now quite lost sight of in + their regret at what they considered deserting Cyril, and many were the + injunctions that were given to John Wilkes before the waggon drove off. + They were somewhat consoled by seeing that Cyril was undoubtedly better + and brighter. He had slept all night without waking, his hands were cool, + and the flush had entirely left his cheek. + </p> + <p> + "If they were starting on a voyage to the Indies they could not be in a + greater taking," John Wilkes said, on returning to Cyril's bedside. "Why, + I have seen the Captain go off on a six months' voyage and less said about + it." + </p> + <p> + "I am heartily glad they are gone, John. If the Plague grows there will be + a terrible time here. Is the shop shut?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay; the man went away two days ago, and we sent off the two 'prentices + yesterday. There is naught doing. Yesterday half the vessels in the Pool + cleared out on the news of the Plague having got into the City, and I + reckon that, before long, there won't be a ship in the port. We shall have + a quiet time of it, you and I; we shall be like men in charge of an old + hulk." + </p> + <p> + Another week, and Cyril was up. All his bandages, except those on the + shoulder and head, had been thrown aside, and the doctor said that, + erelong, the former would be dispensed with. John had wanted to sit up + with him, but as Cyril would not hear of this he had moved his bed into + the same room, so that he could be up in a moment if anything was wanted. + He went out every day to bring in the news. + </p> + <p> + "There is little enough to tell, Master Cyril," he said one day. "So far, + the Plague grows but slowly in the City, though, indeed, it is no fault of + the people that it does not spread rapidly. Most of them seem scared out + of their wits; they gather together and talk, with white faces, and one + man tells of a dream that his wife has had, and another of a voice that he + says he has heard; and some have seen ghosts. Yesterday I came upon a + woman with a crowd round her; she was staring up at a white cloud, and + swore that she could plainly see an angel with a white sword, and some of + the others cried that they saw it too. I should like to have been a + gunner's mate with a stout rattan, and to have laid it over their + shoulders, to give them something else to think about for a few hours. It + is downright pitiful to see such cowards. At the corner of one street + there was a quack, vending pills and perfumes that he warranted to keep + away the Plague, and the people ran up and bought his nostrums by the + score; I hear there are a dozen such in the City, making a fortune out of + the people's fears. I went into the tavern I always use, and had a glass + of Hollands and a talk with the landlord. He says that he does as good a + trade as ever, though in a different way. There are no sailors there now, + but neighbours come in and drink down a glass of strong waters, which many + think is the best thing against the Plague, and then hurry off again. I + saw the Gazette there, and it was half full of advertisements of people + who said they were doctors from foreign parts, and all well accustomed to + cure the Plague. They say the magistrates are going to issue notices about + shutting up houses, as they do at St. Giles's, and to have watchmen at the + doors to see none come in or go out, and that they are going to appoint + examiners in every parish to go from house to house to search for infected + persons." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose these are proper steps to take," Cyril said, "but it will be a + difficult thing to keep people shut up in houses where one is infected. No + doubt it would be a good thing at the commencement of the illness, but + when it has once spread itself, and the very air become infected, it seems + to me that it will do but little good, while it will assuredly cause great + distress and trouble. I long to be able to get up myself, and to see about + things." + </p> + <p> + "The streets have quite an empty aspect, so many have gone away; and what + with that, and most of the shops being closed, and the dismal aspect of + the people, there is little pleasure in being out, Master Cyril." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say, John. Still, it will be a change, and, as soon as I am strong + enough, I shall sally out with you." + </p> + <p> + Another fortnight, and Cyril was able to do so. The Plague had still + spread, but so slowly that people began to hope that the City would be + spared any great calamity, for they were well on in July, and in another + six weeks the heat of summer would be passed. Some of those who had gone + into the country returned, more shops had been opened, and the panic had + somewhat subsided. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean to do, Master Cyril?" John Wilkes asked that evening. + "Of course you cannot join the Fleet again, for it will be, as the doctor + says, another two months before your shoulder-bone will have knit strongly + enough for you to use your arm, and at sea it is a matter of more + consequence than on land for a man to have the use of both arms. The ship + may give a sudden lurch, and one may have to make a clutch at whatever is + nearest to prevent one from rolling into the lee scuppers; and such a + wrench as that would take from a weak arm all the good a three months' + nursing had done it, and might spoil the job of getting the bone to grow + straight again altogether. I don't say you are fit to travel yet, but you + should be able before long to start on a journey, and might travel down + into Gloucestershire, where, be sure, you will be gladly welcomed by the + Captain, his dame, and Mistress Nellie. Or, should you not care for that, + you might go aboard a ship. There are hundreds of them lying idle in the + river, and many families have taken up their homes there, so as to be free + from all risks of meeting infected persons in the streets." + </p> + <p> + "I think I shall stay here, John, and keep you company. If the Plague dies + away, well and good. If it gets bad, we can shut ourselves up. You say + that the Captain has laid in a great store of provisions, so that you + could live without laying out a penny for a year, and it is as sure as + anything can be, that when the cold weather comes on it will die out. + Besides, John, neither you nor I are afraid of the Plague, and it is + certain that it is fear that makes most people take it. If it becomes bad, + there will be terrible need for help, and maybe we shall be able to do + some good. If we are not afraid of facing death in battle, why should we + fear it by the Plague. It is as noble a death to die helping one's + fellow-countrymen in their sore distress as in fighting for one's + country." + </p> + <p> + "That is true enough, Master Cyril, if folks did but see it so. I do not + see what we could do, but if there be aught, you can depend on me. I was + in a ship in the Levant when we had a fever, which, it seems to me, was + akin to this Plague, though not like it in all its symptoms. Half the crew + died, and, as you say, I verily believe that it was partly from the + lowness of spirits into which they fell from fear. I used to help nurse + the sick, and throw overboard the dead, and it never touched me. I don't + say that I was braver than others, but it seemed to me as it was just as + easy to take things comfortable as it was to fret over them." + </p> + <p> + Towards the end of the month the Plague spread rapidly, and all work + ceased in the parishes most affected. But, just as it had raged for weeks + in the Western parishes outside the City, so it seemed restricted by + certain invisible lines, after it had made its entry within the walls, and + while it raged in some parts others were entirely unaffected, and here + shops were open, and the streets still retained something of their usual + appearance. There had been great want among the poorer classes, owing to + the cessation of work, especially along the riverside. The Lord Mayor, + some of the Aldermen, and most other rich citizens had hastened to leave + the City. While many of the clergy were deserting their flocks, and many + doctors their patients, others remained firmly at their posts, and worked + incessantly, and did all that was possible in order to check the spread of + the Plague and to relieve the distress of the poor. + </p> + <p> + Numbers of the women were engaged as nurses. Examiners were appointed in + each parish, and these, with their assistants, paid house-to-house + visitations, in order to discover any who were infected; and as soon as + the case was discovered the house was closed, and none suffered to go in + or out, a watchman being placed before the door day and night. Two men + therefore were needed to each infected house, and this afforded employment + for numbers of poor. Others were engaged in digging graves, or in going + round at night, with carts, collecting the dead. + </p> + <p> + So great was the dread of the people at the thought of being shut up in + their houses, without communication with the world, that every means was + used for concealing the fact that one of the inmates was smitten down. + This was the more easy because the early stages of the disease were + without pain, and people were generally ignorant that they had been + attacked until within a few hours, and sometimes within a few minutes, of + their death; consequently, when the Plague had once spread, all the + precautions taken to prevent its increase were useless, while they caused + great misery and suffering, and doubtless very much greater loss of life. + For, owing to so many being shut up in the houses with those affected, and + there being no escape from the infection, whole families, with the + servants and apprentices, sickened and died together. + </p> + <p> + Cyril frequently went up to view the infected districts. He was not moved + by curiosity, but by a desire to see if there were no way of being of use. + There was not a street but many of the houses were marked with the red + cross. In front of these the watchmen sat on stools or chairs lent by the + inmates, or borrowed from some house whence the inhabitants had all fled. + The air rang with pitiful cries. Sometimes women, distraught with terror + or grief, screamed wildly through open windows. Sometimes people talked + from the upper stories to their neighbours on either hand, or opposite, + prisoners like themselves, each telling their lamentable tale of misery, + of how many had died and how many remained. + </p> + <p> + It was by no means uncommon to see on the pavement men and women who, in + the excess of despair or pain, had thrown themselves headlong down. While + such sounds and sights filled Cyril with horror, they aroused still more + his feelings of pity and desire to be of some use. Very frequently he went + on errands for people who called down from above to him. Money was lowered + in a tin dish, or other vessel, in which it lay covered with vinegar as a + disinfectant. Taking it out, he would go and buy the required articles, + generally food or medicine, and, returning, place them in a basket that + was again lowered. + </p> + <p> + The watchmen mostly executed these commissions, but many of them were + surly fellows, and, as they were often abused and cursed by those whom + they held prisoners, would do but little for them. They had, moreover, an + excuse for refusing to leave the door, because, as often happened, it + might be opened in their absence and the inmates escape. It was true that + the watchmen had the keys, but the screws were often drawn from the locks + inside; and so frequently was this done that at last chains with padlocks + were fastened to all the doors as soon as the watch was set over them. But + even this did not avail. Many of the houses had communications at the + backs into other streets, and so eluded the vigilance of the watch; while, + in other cases, communications were broken through the walls into other + houses, empty either by desertion or death, and the escape could thus be + made under the very eye of the watchman. + </p> + <p> + Very frequently Cyril went into a church when he saw the door open. Here + very small congregations would be gathered, for there was a fear on the + part of all of meeting with strangers, for these might, unknown to + themselves, be already stricken with the pest, and all public meetings of + any kind were, for this reason, strictly forbidden. One day, he was + passing a church that had hitherto been always closed, its incumbent being + one of those who had fled at the outbreak of the Plague. Upon entering he + saw a larger congregation than usual, some twenty or thirty people being + present. + </p> + <p> + The minister had just mounted the pulpit, and was beginning his address as + Cyril entered. The latter was struck with his appearance. He was a man of + some thirty years of age, with a strangely earnest face. His voice was + deep, but soft and flexible, and in the stillness of the almost empty + church its lowest tones seemed to come with impressive power, and Cyril + thought that he had never heard such preaching before. The very text + seemed strange at such a time: <i>"Rejoice ye, for the kingdom of heaven + is at hand."</i> From most of the discourses he had heard Cyril had gone + out depressed rather than inspirited. They had been pitched in one tone. + The terrible scourge that raged round them was held up as a punishment + sent by the wrath of God upon a sinful people, and the congregation were + warned to prepare themselves for the fate, that might at any moment be + theirs, by repentance and humiliation. The preacher to whom Cyril was now + listening spoke in an altogether different strain. + </p> + <p> + "You are all soldiers of Christ," he said, "and now is an opportunity + given to you to show that you are worthy soldiers. When the troops of a + worldly monarch go into battle they do so with head erect, with proud and + resolute bearing, with flashing eye, and with high courage, determined to + bear aloft his banner and to crown it with victory, even though it cost + them their lives. Such is the mien that soldiers of Christ should bear in + the mortal strife now raging round us. Let them show the same fearlessness + of death, the same high courage, the same unlimited confidence in their + Leader. What matter if they die in His service? He has told them what + their work should be. He has bidden them visit the sick and comfort the + sorrowing. What if there be danger in the work? Did He shrink from the + Cross which was to end His work of love, and is it for His followers to do + so? 'Though you go down into the pit,' He has said, 'I am there also'; and + with His companionship one must be craven indeed to tremble. This is a + noble opportunity for holding high the banner of Christ. There is work to + be done for all, and as the work is done, men should see by the calm + courage, the cheerfulness, and the patience of those that do it, that they + know that they are doing His work, and that they are content to leave the + issue, whatever it be, in His hands." + </p> + <p> + Such was the tone in which, for half an hour, he spoke. When he had + finished he offered up a prayer, gave the blessing, and then came down + from the pulpit and spoke to several of the congregation. He was evidently + personally known to most of them. One by one, after a few words, they left + the church. Cyril remained to the last. + </p> + <p> + "I am willing to work, sir," he said, as the preacher came up, "but, so + far, no work has come in my way." + </p> + <p> + "Have you father or mother, or any dependent on you?" + </p> + <p> + "No one, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Then come along with me; I lodge close by. I have eaten nothing to-day, + and must keep up my strength, and I have a long round of calls to make." + </p> + <p> + "This is the first time I have seen the church open," Cyril said, as they + went out. + </p> + <p> + "It is not my church, sir, nor do I belong to the Church of England; I am + an Independent. But as many of the pastors have fled and left their sheep + untended, so have we—for there are others besides myself who have + done so—taken possession of their empty pulpits, none gainsaying us, + and are doing what good we can. You have been in the war, I see," he went + on, glancing at Cyril's arm, which was carried in a sling. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I was at the battle of Lowestoft, and having been wounded there, + came to London to stay in a friend's house till I was cured. He and his + family have left, but I am living with a trusty foreman who is in charge + of the house. I have a great desire to be useful. I myself have little + fear of the Plague." + </p> + <p> + "That is the best of all preservatives from its ravages, although not a + sure one; for many doctors who have laboured fearlessly have yet died. + Have you thought of any way of being useful?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; that is what is troubling me. As you see, I have but the use of + one arm, and I have not got back my full strength by a long way." + </p> + <p> + "Everyone can be useful if he chooses," the minister said. "There is need + everywhere among this stricken, frightened, helpless people, of men of + calm courage and cool heads. Nine out of ten are so scared out of their + senses, when once the Plague enters the houses, as to be well-nigh + useless, and yet the law hinders those who would help if they could. I am + compelled to labour, not among those who are sick, but among those who are + well. When one enters a house with the red cross on the door, he may leave + it no more until he is either borne out to the dead-cart, or the Plague + has wholly disappeared within it, and a month has elapsed. The sole + exception are the doctors; they are no more exempt from spreading the + infection than other men, but as they must do their work so far as they + can they have free passage; and yet, so few is their number and so heavy + already their losses, that not one in a hundred of those that are smitten + can have their aid. Here is one coming now, one of the best—Dr. + Hodges. If you are indeed willing so to risk your life, I will speak to + him. But I know not your name?" + </p> + <p> + "My name is Cyril Shenstone." + </p> + <p> + The clergyman looked at him suddenly, and would have spoken, but the + doctor was now close to them. + </p> + <p> + "Ah! Mr. Wallace," he said, "I am glad to see you, and to know that, so + far, you have not taken the disease, although constantly going into the + worst neighbourhoods." + </p> + <p> + "Like yourself, Dr. Hodges, I have no fear of it." + </p> + <p> + "I do not say I have no fear," the doctor replied. "I do my duty so far as + I can, but I do not doubt that, sooner or later, I shall catch the malady, + as many of us have done already. I take such precautions as I can, but the + distemper seems to baffle all precautions. My only grief is that our skill + avails so little. So far we have found nothing that seems to be of any + real use. Perhaps if we could attack it in the earlier stages we might be + more successful. The strange nature of the disease, and the way in which + it does its work well-nigh to the end, before the patient is himself aware + of it, puts it out of our power to combat it. In many cases I am not sent + for until the patient is at the point of death, and by the time I reach + his door I am met with the news that he is dead. But I must be going." + </p> + <p> + "One moment, Dr. Hodges. This young gentleman has been expressing to me + his desire to be of use. I know nothing of him save that he was one of my + congregation this morning, but, as he fears not the Plague, and is moved + by a desire to help his fellows in distress, I take it that he is a good + youth. He was wounded in the battle of Lowestoft, and, being as ready to + encounter the Plague as he was the Dutch, would now fight in the cause of + humanity. Would you take him as an assistant? I doubt if he knows anything + of medicine, but I think he is one that would see your orders carried out. + He has no relations or friends, and therefore considers himself free to + venture his life." + </p> + <p> + The doctor looked earnestly at Cyril and then raised his hat. + </p> + <p> + "Young sir," he said, "since you are willing so to venture your life, I + will gladly accept your help. There are few enough clear heads in this + city, God knows. As for the nurses, they are Jezebels. They have the + choice of starving or nursing, and they nurse; but they neglect their + patients, they rob them, and there is little doubt that in many cases they + murder them, so that at the end of their first nursing they may have + enough money to live on without going to another house. But I am pressed + for time. Here is my card. Call on me this evening at six, and we will + talk further on the matter." + </p> + <p> + Shaking hands with the minister he hurried away. + </p> + <p> + "Come as far as my lodgings," Mr. Wallace said to Cyril, "and stay with me + while I eat my meal. 'Tis a diversion to one's mind to turn for a moment + from the one topic that all men are speaking of. + </p> + <p> + "Your name is Shenstone. I come from Norfolk. There was a family of that + name formerly had estates near my native place. One Sir Aubrey Shenstone + was at its head—a brave gentleman. I well remember seeing him when I + was a boy, but he took the side of the King against the Parliament, and, + as we heard, passed over with Charles to France when his cause was lost. I + have not heard of him since." + </p> + <p> + "Sir Aubrey was my father," Cyril said quietly; "he died a year ago. I am + his only son." + </p> + <p> + "And therefore Sir Cyril," the minister said, "though you did not so name + yourself." + </p> + <p> + "It was needless," Cyril said. "I have no estates to support my title, and + though it is true that, when at sea with Prince Rupert, I was called Sir + Cyril, it was because the Prince had known my father, and knew that I, at + his death, inherited the title, though I inherited nothing else." + </p> + <p> + They now reached the door of Mr. Wallace's lodging, and went up to his + room on the first floor. + </p> + <p> + "Neglect no precaution," the minister said. "No one should throw away his + life. I myself, although not a smoker, nor accustomed to take snuff, use + it now, and would, as the doctors advise, chew a piece of tobacco, but + 'tis too nasty, and when I tried it, I was so ill that I thought even the + risk of the Plague preferable. But I carry camphor in my pockets, and when + I return from preaching among people of whom some may well have the + infection, I bathe my face and hands with vinegar, and, pouring some on to + a hot iron, fill the room with its vapour. My life is useful, I hope, and + I would fain keep it, as long as it is the Lord's will, to work in His + service. As a rule, I take wine and bread before I go out in the morning, + though to-day I was pressed for time, and neglected it. I should advise + you always to do so. I am convinced that a full man has less chance of + catching the infection than a fasting one, and that it is the weakness + many men suffer from their fears, and from their loss of appetite from + grief, that causes them to take it so easily. When the fever was so bad in + St. Giles's, I heard that in many instances, where whole families were + carried away, the nurses shut up with them were untouched with the + infection, and I believe that this was because they had become hardened to + the work, and ate and drank heartily, and troubled not themselves at all + at the grief of those around them. They say that many of these harpies + have grown, wealthy, loading themselves with everything valuable they + could lay hands on in the houses of those they attended." + </p> + <p> + After the meal, in which he insisted upon Cyril joining him, was + concluded, Mr. Wallace uttered a short prayer that Cyril might safely pass + through the work he had undertaken. + </p> + <p> + "I trust," he said, "that you will come here frequently? I generally have + a few friends here of an evening. We try to be cheerful, and to strengthen + each other, and I am sure we all have comfort at these meetings." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, I will come sometimes, sir; but as a rule I must return home, + for my friend, John Wilkes, would sorely miss my company, and is so good + and faithful a fellow that I would not seem to desert him on any account." + </p> + <p> + "Do as you think right, lad, but remember there will always be a welcome + for you here when you choose to come." + </p> + <p> + John Wilkes was dismayed when he heard of Cyril's intention. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Master Cyril," he said, after smoking his pipe in silence for some + time, "it is not for me to hinder you in what you have made up your mind + to do. I don't say that if I wasn't on duty here that I mightn't go and do + what I could for these poor creatures. But I don't know. It is one thing + to face a deadly fever like this Plague if it comes on board your own + ship, for there is no getting out of it; and as you have got to face it, + why, says I, do it as a man; but as for going out of your way to put + yourself in the middle of it, that is going a bit beyond me." + </p> + <p> + "Well, John, you didn't think it foolish when I went as a Volunteer to + fight the Dutch. It was just the same thing, you know." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose it was," John said reluctantly, after a pause. "But then, you + see, you were fighting for your country." + </p> + <p> + "Well, but in the present case I shall be fighting for my countrymen and + countrywomen, John. It is awful to think of the misery that people are + suffering, and it seems to me that, having nothing else to do here, it is + specially my duty to put my hand to the work of helping as far as I can. + The risk may, at present, be greater than it would be if I stayed at home, + but if the Plague spreads—and it looks as if all the City would + presently be affected—all will have to run the risk of contagion. + There are thousands of women now who voluntarily enter the houses as + nurses for a small rate of pay. Even robbers, they say, will enter and + ransack the houses of the dead in search of plunder. It will be a shame + indeed then if one should shrink from doing so when possibly one might do + good." + </p> + <p> + "I will say nothing more against it, Master Cyril. Still, I do not see + exactly what you are going to do; with one arm you could scarce hold down + a raving man." + </p> + <p> + "I am not going to be a nurse, certainly, John," Cyril said, with a laugh. + "I expect that the doctor wants certain cases watched. Either he may doubt + the nurses, or he may want to see how some particular drug works. Nothing, + so far, seems of use, but that may be partly because the doctors are all + so busy that they cannot watch the patients and see, from hour to hour, + how medicines act." + </p> + <p> + "When I was in the Levant, and the pest was bad there," John Wilkes said, + "I heard that the Turks, when seized with the distemper, sometimes wrapped + themselves up in a great number of clothes, so that they sweated heavily, + and that this seemed, in some cases, to draw off the fever, and so the + patient recovered." + </p> + <p> + "That seems a sensible sort of treatment, John, and worth trying with this + Plague." + </p> + <p> + On calling on Dr. Hodges that afternoon, Cyril found that he had rightly + guessed the nature of the work that the doctor wished him to perform. + </p> + <p> + "I can never rely upon the nurses," he said. "I give instructions with + medicines, but in most cases I am sure that the instructions are never + carried out. The relations and friends are too frightened to think or act + calmly, too full of grief for the sick, and anxiety for those who have not + yet taken the illness, to watch the changes in the patient. As to the + nurses, they are often drunk the whole time they are in the house. + Sometimes they fear to go near the sick man or woman; sometimes, + undoubtedly, they hasten death. In most cases it matters little, for we + are generally called in too late to be of any service. The poor people + view us almost as enemies; they hide their malady from us in every way. + Half our time, too, is wasted uselessly, for many are there who frighten + themselves into the belief that they are ill, and send for us in all + haste. So far, we feel that we are working altogether in the dark; none of + us can see that any sort of drug avails even in the slightest degree when + the malady has once got a hold. One in twenty cases may live, but why we + know not. Still the fact that some do live shows that the illness is not + necessarily mortal, and that, could the right remedy befound, we might yet + overcome it. The first thing, however, is to try to prevent its spread. + Here we have ten or more people shut up in a house with one sick person. + It is a terrible necessity, for it is a sentence of death to many, if not + to all. We give the nurses instructions to fumigate the room by + evaporating vinegar upon hot irons, by burning spices and drugs, by + sprinkling perfumes. So far, I cannot see that these measures have been of + any service, but I cannot say how thoroughly they have been carried out, + and I sorely need an assistant to see that the system is fairly tried. It + is not necessary that he should be a doctor, but he must have influence + and power over those in the house. He must be calm and firm, and he must + be regarded by the people as a doctor. If you will undertake this, you + must put on a wig, for you know that that is looked upon as a necessary + part of a doctor's outfit by people in general. I shall introduce you as + my assistant, and say that you are to be obeyed as implicitly as if I + myself were present. There is another reason why you must pass as a + doctor, for you would otherwise be a prisoner and unable to pass in and + out. You had best wear a black suit. I will lend you one of my canes and a + snuff-box, and should advise you to take snuff, even if it is not your + habit, for I believe that it is good against infection, and one of the + experiments I wish to try is as to what its result may be if burnt freely + in the house. Are you ready to undertake this work?" + </p> + <p> + "Quite ready, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Then come round here at eight in the morning. I shall have heard by that + hour from the examiners of this parish of any fresh case they have found. + They begin their rounds at five o'clock." + </p> + <p> + The next day Cyril presented himself at the doctor's, dressed in black, + with white ruffles to his shirt, and a flowing wig he had purchased the + night before. + </p> + <p> + "Here are the cane and snuff-box," Dr. Hodges said. "Now you will pass + muster very well as my assistant. Let us be off at once; for I have a long + list of cases." + </p> + <p> + Cyril remained outside while Dr. Hodges went into three or four houses. + Presently he came down to the door, and said to him,— + </p> + <p> + "This is a case where things are favourable for a first trial. It is a boy + who is taken ill, and the parents, though in deep grief, seem to have some + sense left." + </p> + <p> + He turned to the watchman, who had already been placed at the door. The + man, who evidently knew him, had saluted respectfully when he entered the + house. + </p> + <p> + "This gentleman is my assistant," he said, "and you will allow him to pass + in and out just as you would myself. He is going to take this case + entirely in hand, and you will regard him as being in charge here." + </p> + <p> + He then re-entered the house with Cyril, and led him to the room where the + parents of the boy, and two elder sisters, were assembled. + </p> + <p> + "This is my assistant," he said, "and he has consented to take entire + charge of the case, though I myself shall look in and consult with him + every morning. In the first place, your son must be taken to the top + storey of the house. You say that you are ready to nurse him yourselves, + and do not wish that a paid nurse should be had in. I commend your + determination, for the nurses are, for the most part, worse than useless, + and carry the infection all over the house. But only one of you must go + into the room, and whoever goes in must stay there. It is madness for all + to be going in and out and exposing themselves to the infection when no + good can be done. When this is the case, one or other is sure to take the + malady, and then it spreads to all. Which of you will undertake the duty?" + </p> + <p> + All four at once offered themselves, and there was an earnest contest + between them for the dangerous post. Dr. Hodges listened for a minute or + two, and then decided upon the elder of the two sisters—a quiet, + resolute-looking girl with a healthy face. + </p> + <p> + "This young lady shall be nurse," he said. "I feel that I can have + confidence in her. She looks healthy and strong, and would, methinks, best + resist the malady, should she take it. I am leaving my assistant here for + a time to see to the fumigation of the house. You will please see that his + orders are carried out in every respect. I have every hope that if this is + done the Plague will not spread further; but much must depend upon + yourselves. Do not give way to grief, but encourage each other, and go + about with calm minds. I see," he said, pointing to a Bible on the table, + "that you know where to go for comfort and strength. The first thing is to + carry the boy up to the room that we chose for him." + </p> + <p> + "I will do that," the father said. + </p> + <p> + "He had better be left in the blankets in which he is lying. Cover him + completely over with them, for, above all, it is necessary that you should + not inhale his breath. You had better take the head and your daughter the + feet. But first see that the room upstairs is prepared." + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes the lad was transferred to the upper room, the doctor + warning the others not to enter that from which he had been carried until + it had been fumigated and sprinkled with vinegar. + </p> + <p> + "Now," he said to the girl who was to remain with the patient, "keep the + window wide open; as there is no fireplace, keep a brazier of charcoal + burning near the window. Keep the door shut, and open it only when you + have need for something. Give him a portion of this medicine every half + hour. Do not lean over him—remember that his breath is a fatal + poison. Put a pinch of these powdered spices into the fire every few + minutes. Pour this perfume over your handkerchief, and put it over your + mouth and nose whenever you approach the bed. He is in a stupor now, poor + lad, and I fear that his chance of recovery is very slight; but you must + remember that your own life is of value to your parents, and that it + behoves you to do all in your power to preserve it, and that if you take + the contagion it may spread through the house. We shall hang a sheet, + soaked in vinegar, outside the door." + </p> + <p> + "We could not have a better case for a trial," he said, as he went + downstairs and joined Cyril, whom he had bidden wait below. "The people + are all calm and sensible, and if we succeed not here, there is small + chance of our succeeding elsewhere." + </p> + <p> + The doctor then gave detailed orders as to fumigating the house, and left. + Cyril saw at once that a brazier of charcoal was lighted and carried + upstairs, and he called to the girl to come out and fetch it in. As soon + as she had done so the sheet was hung over the door. Then he took another + brazier, placed it in the room from which the boy had been carried, laid + several lumps of sulphur upon it, and then left the room. All the doors of + the other rooms were then thrown open, and a quantity of tobacco, spices, + and herbs, were burnt on a red-hot iron at the foot of the stairs, until + the house was filled with a dense smoke. Half an hour later all the + windows were opened. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI — FATHER AND SON + </h2> + <p> + The process of fumigation had well-nigh suffocated the wife and daughter + of the trader, but, as soon as the smoke cleared away, Cyril set them all + to work to carry up articles of furniture to another bedroom on the top + floor. + </p> + <p> + "When your daughter is released from nursing, madam," he said, "she must + at once come into this room, and remain there secluded for a few days. + Therefore, it will be well to make it as comfortable as possible for her. + Her food must be taken up and put outside the door, so that she can take + it in there without any of you going near her." + </p> + <p> + The occupation was a useful one, as it distracted the thoughts of those + engaged in it from the sick room. + </p> + <p> + Cyril did not enter there. He had told the girl to call him should there + be any necessity, but said,— + </p> + <p> + "Do not call me unless absolutely needful, if, for instance, he becomes + violent, in which case we must fasten the sheets across him so as to + restrain him. But it is of no use your remaining shut up there if I go in + and out of the room to carry the infection to the others." + </p> + <p> + "You have hurt your arm, doctor?" the mother said, when the arrangements + were all made, and they had returned to the room below. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," he said; "I met with an accident, and must, for a short time, keep + my arm in a sling." + </p> + <p> + "You look young, sir, to be running these fearful perils." + </p> + <p> + "I am young," Cyril said, "and have not yet completed all my studies; but + Dr. Hodges judged that I was sufficiently advanced to be able to be of + service to him, not so much in prescribing as by seeing that his orders + were carried out." + </p> + <p> + Every half hour he went upstairs, and inquired, through the door, as to + the state of the boy. + </p> + <p> + Late in the afternoon he heard the girl crying bitterly within. He + knocked, and she cried out,— + </p> + <p> + "He is dead, sir; he has just expired." + </p> + <p> + "Then you must think of yourself and the others," he said. "The small + packet I placed on the chair contains sulphur. Close the window, then + place the packet on the fire, and leave the room at once and go into the + next room, which is all ready for you. There, I pray you, undress, and + sponge yourself with vinegar, then make your clothes into a bundle and put + them outside the door. There will be a bowl of hot broth in readiness for + you there; drink that, and then go to bed at once, and keep the blankets + over you and try to sleep." + </p> + <p> + He went part of the way downstairs, and, in a minute or two, heard a door + open and shut, then another door shut. Knowing that the order had been + carried out, he went downstairs. + </p> + <p> + "Madam," he said, "God has taken your boy. The doctor had but little hope + for him. For the sake of yourself and those around you, I pray you all to + bear up against the sorrow." + </p> + <p> + The mother burst into tears, and, leaving her with her husband and + daughter, Cyril went into the kitchen, where the maid and an apprentice + were sitting with pale faces, and bade the servant at once warm up the + broth, that had already been prepared. As soon as it was ready, he carried + a basin upstairs. The bundle of clothes had already been placed outside + the girl's room. He took this down and put it on the kitchen fire. + </p> + <p> + "Now," he said, "take four basins up to the parlour, and do you and the + boy each make a hearty meal. I think there is little fear of the Plague + spreading, and your best chance of avoiding it is by keeping up your + spirits and not fretting about it." + </p> + <p> + As soon as the broth had been taken into the parlour, he went in and + persuaded them to eat and to take a glass of wine with it, while he + himself sat down with them. + </p> + <p> + "You are all weak," he said, "for, doubtless, you have eaten nothing + to-day, and you need strength as well as courage. I trust that your + daughter will presently go off into a sound sleep. The last thing before + you go to bed, take up with you a basin of good posset with a glass of + wine in it; knock gently at her door; if she is awake, tell her to come + out and take it in as soon as you have gone, but if she does not reply, do + not rouse her. I can be of no further use to-night, but will return in the + morning, when I hope to find all is well." + </p> + <p> + The father accompanied him to the door. + </p> + <p> + "You will of course bring the poor boy down to-night. It were best that + you made some excuse to sleep in another room. Let your daughter sleep + with her mother. When you go in to fetch him, be careful that you do not + enter at once, for the fumes of the sulphur will scarcely have abated. As + you go in, place a wet handkerchief to your mouth, and make to the window + and throw it open, closing the door behind you. Sit at the window till the + air is tolerable, then wrap the blankets round him and carry him + downstairs when you hear the bell. After he has gone tell the servant to + have a brazier lighted, and to keep up the kitchen fire. As soon as he is + gone, burn on the brazier at the foot of the stairs, tobacco and spices, + as we did before; then take off your clothes and burn them on the kitchen + fire, and then go up to bed. You can leave the doors and windows of the + rooms that are not in use open, so that the smoke may escape." + </p> + <p> + "God bless you, sir!" the man said. "You have been a comfort indeed to us, + and I have good hopes that the Plague will spread no further among us." + </p> + <p> + Cyril went first to the doctor's, and reported what had taken place. + </p> + <p> + "I will go round in the morning and see how they are," he concluded, "and + bring you round word before you start on your rounds." + </p> + <p> + "You have done very well indeed," the doctor said. "If people everywhere + would be as calm, and obey orders as well as those you have been with, I + should have good hopes that we might check the spread of the Plague; but + you will find that they are quite the exception." + </p> + <p> + This, indeed, proved to be the case. In many instances, the people were so + distracted with grief and fear that they ran about the house like mad + persons, crying and screaming, running in and out of the sick chamber, or + sitting there crying helplessly, and refusing to leave the body until it + was carried out to the dead-cart. But with such cases Cyril had nothing to + do, as the doctor would only send him to the houses where he saw that his + instructions would be carried out. + </p> + <p> + To his great satisfaction, Cyril found that the precautions taken in the + first case proved successful. Regularly, every morning, he inquired at the + door, and received the answer, "All are well." + </p> + <p> + In August the Plague greatly increased in violence, the deaths rising to + ten thousand a week. A dull despair had now seized the population. It + seemed that all were to be swept away. Many went out of their minds. The + quacks no longer drove a flourishing trade in their pretended nostrums; + these were now utterly discredited, for nothing seemed of the slightest + avail. Some went to the opposite extreme, and affected to defy fate. The + taverns were filled again, and boisterous shouts and songs seemed to mock + the dismal cries from the houses with the red cross on the door. Robberies + were rife. Regardless of the danger of the pest, robbers broke into the + houses where all the inmates had perished by the Plague, and rifled them + of their valuables. The nurses plundered the dying. All natural affection + seemed at an end. + </p> + <p> + Those stricken were often deserted by all their relatives, and left alone + to perish. + </p> + <p> + Bands of reckless young fellows went through the streets singing, and, + dressing up in masks, performed the dance of death. The dead were too many + to be carried away in carts at night to the great pits prepared for them, + but the dismal tones of the bell, and the cries of "Bring out your dead!" + sounded in the streets all day. It was no longer possible to watch the + whole of the infected houses. Sometimes Plague-stricken men would escape + from their beds and run through the streets until they dropped dead. One + such man, in the height of his delirium, sprang into the river, and, after + swimming about for some time, returned to the shore, marvellously cured of + his malady by the shock. + </p> + <p> + Cyril went occasionally in the evening to the lodgings of Mr. Wallace. At + first he met several people gathered there, but the number became fewer + every time he went. He had told the minister that he thought that it would + be better for him to stay away, exposed as he was to infection, but Mr. + Wallace would take no excuses on this score. + </p> + <p> + "We are all in the hands of God," he said. "The streets are full of + infected people, and I myself frequently go to pray with my friends in the + earliest stages of the malady. There is no longer any use in precautions. + We can but all go on doing our duty until we are called away, and even + among the few who gather here of an evening there may be one or more who + are already smitten, though unconscious yet that their summons has come." + </p> + <p> + Among others Cyril was introduced to a Mr. and Mrs. Harvey, who were, the + minister told him, from the country, but were staying in town on account + of a painful family business. + </p> + <p> + "I have tried to persuade them to return home and to stay there until the + Plague ceases, but they conceive it their duty to remain. They are, like + myself, Independents, and are not easily to be turned from a resolution + they have taken." + </p> + <p> + Cyril could easily understand that Mr. Harvey was exactly what he, from + the description he had heard of them, had pictured to himself that a + Roundhead soldier would be. He had a stern face, eyes deeply sunk in his + head, high cheekbones, a firm mouth, and a square jaw. He wore his hair + cut close. His figure was bony, and he must, as a young man, have been + very powerful. He spoke in a slow, deliberate way, that struck Cyril as + being the result of long effort, for a certain restless action of the + fingers and the quick movement of the eye, told of a naturally impulsive + and fiery disposition. He constantly used scriptural texts in the course + of his speech. His wife was gentle and quiet, but it was evident that + there was a very strong sympathy between them, and Cyril found, after + meeting them once or twice, that he liked them far better than he thought + he should do on their first introduction. This was, no doubt, partly due + to the fact that Mr. Harvey frequently entered into conversation with him, + and appeared to interest himself in him. He was, too, a type that was + altogether new to the lad. From his father, and his father's companions, + he had heard nothing good of the Puritans, but the evident earnestness of + this man's nature was, to some extent, in accordance with his own + disposition, and he felt that, widely as he might differ from him on all + points of politics, he could not but respect him. The evenings were + pleasant. As if by common consent, the conversation never turned on the + Plague, but they talked of other passing events, of the trials of their + friends, and of the laws that were being put in force against + Nonconformists. + </p> + <p> + "What think you of these persecutions, young sir?" Mr. Harvey abruptly + asked Cyril, one evening, breaking off in the midst of a general + conversation. + </p> + <p> + Cyril was a little confused at the unexpected question. + </p> + <p> + "I think all persecutions for conscience' sake are wrong," he said, after + a moment's pause, "and generally recoil upon the persecutors. Spain lost + Holland owing to her persecution of the people. France lost great numbers + of her best citizens by her laws against the Protestants. I agree with you + thoroughly, that the persecution of the Nonconformists at present is a + grievous error, and a cruel injustice; but, at the same time, if you will + excuse my saying so, it is the natural consequence of the persecution by + the Nonconformists, when they were in power, of the ministers of the + Church of England. My tutor in France was an English clergyman, who had + been driven from his living, like thousands of other ministers, because he + would not give up his opinions. Therefore, you see, I very early was + imbued with a hatred of persecution in any form. I trust that I have not + spoken too boldly; but you asked for my opinion, and I was forced to give + it." + </p> + <p> + "At any rate, young sir, you have spoken manfully, and I like you none the + worse for it. Nor can I altogether gainsay your words. But you must + remember that we had before been oppressed, and that we have been engaged + in a desperate struggle for liberty of conscience." + </p> + <p> + "Which, having won for ourselves, we proceeded to deny to others," Mr. + Wallace said, with a smile. "Cyril has us fairly, Mr. Harvey. We are + reaping what our fathers sowed. They thought that the power they had + gained was to be theirs to hold always, and they used it tyrannously, + being thereby false to all their principles. It is ever the persecuted, + when he attains power, who becomes the persecutor, and, hard as is the + pressure of the laws now, we should never forget that we have, in our + time, been persecutors, and that in defiance of the rights of conscience + we had fought to achieve. Man's nature is, I fear, unchangeable. The slave + longs, above all things, for freedom, but when he rises successfully + against his master he, in turn, becomes a tyrant, and not infrequently a + cruel and bloodthirsty one. Still, we must hope. It may be in the good + days that are to come, we may reach a point when each will be free to + worship in his own fashion, without any fear or hindrance, recognising the + fact that each has a right to follow his own path to Heaven, without its + being a subject of offence to those who walk in other ways." + </p> + <p> + One or two of the other visitors were on the point of speaking, when Mr. + Wallace put a stop to further argument by fetching a Bible from his + closet, and preparing for the short service of prayer with which the + evening always closed. + </p> + <p> + One evening, Mr. Harvey and his wife were absent from the usual gathering. + </p> + <p> + "I feel anxious about them," Mr. Wallace said; "they have never, since + they arrived in town, missed coming here at seven o'clock. The bells are + usually striking the hour as they come. I fear that one or other of them + may have been seized by the Plague." + </p> + <p> + "With your permission, sir, I will run round and see," Cyril said. "I know + their lodging, for I have accompanied them to the door several times. It + is but five minutes' walk from here. If one or other is ill I will run + round to Dr. Hodges, and I am sure, at my request, he will go round at + once to see them." + </p> + <p> + Cyril walked fast towards the lodging occupied by the Harveys. It was at + the house of a mercer, but he and his family had, three weeks before, gone + away, having gladly permitted his lodgers to remain, as their presence + acted as a guard to the house. They had brought up an old servant with + them, and were therefore able to dispense with other attendants. Cyril + hurried along, trying, as usual, to pay as little heed as he could to the + doleful cries that arose from many of the houses. Although it was still + broad daylight there was scarce a soul in the streets, and those he met + were, like himself, walking fast, keeping as far as possible from any one + they met, so as to avoid contact. + </p> + <p> + As he neared the house he heard a woman scream. A moment later a casement + was thrown open, and Mrs. Harvey's head appeared. She gave another + piercing cry for help, and was then suddenly dragged back, and the + casement was violently closed. Cyril had so frequently heard similar cries + that he would have paid no attention to it had it come from a stranger, + but he felt that Mrs. Harvey was not one to give way to wild despair, even + had her husband been suddenly attacked with the Plague. Her sudden + disappearance, and the closing of the casement, too, were unaccountable, + unless, indeed, her husband were in a state of violent delirium. He ran to + the door and flung himself against it. + </p> + <p> + "Help me to force it down," he cried to a man who was passing. + </p> + <p> + "You are mad," the man replied. "Do you not see that they have got the + Plague? You may hear hundreds of such cries every day." + </p> + <p> + Cyril drew his sword, which he always carried when he went out of an + evening—for, owing to the deaths among the City watch, deeds of + lawlessness and violence were constantly perpetrated—and struck, + with all his strength, with the hilt upon the fastening of the casement + next the door. Several of the small panes of glass fell in, and the whole + window shook. Again and again he struck upon the same spot, when the + fastening gave way, and the window flew open. He sprang in at once, ran + through the shop into the passage, and then upstairs. The door was open, + and he nearly fell over the body of a man. As he ran into the room he + heard the words,— + </p> + <p> + "For the last time: Will you sign the deed? You think I will not do this, + but I am desperate." + </p> + <p> + As the words left his mouth, Cyril sprang forward between the man and Mr. + Harvey, who was standing with his arms folded, looking steadfastly at his + opponent, who was menacing him with a drawn sword. The man, with a + terrible oath, turned to defend himself, repeating the oath when he saw + who was his assailant. + </p> + <p> + "I let you off last time lightly, you scoundrel!" Cyril exclaimed. "This + time it is your life or mine." + </p> + <p> + The man made a furious lunge at him. Cyril parried it, and would at the + next moment have run him through had not Mr. Harvey suddenly thrown + himself between them, hurling Cyril's antagonist to the ground. + </p> + <p> + "Put up your sword," he said to Cyril. "This man is my son; scoundrel and + villain, yet still my son, even though he has raised his hand against me. + Leave him to God." + </p> + <p> + Cyril had stepped a pace back in his surprise. At first he thought that + Mr. Harvey's trouble had turned his brain; then it flashed across him that + this ruffian's name was indeed John Harvey. The man was about to rise from + the floor when Cyril again sprang forward. + </p> + <p> + "Drop that sword," he exclaimed, "or I will run you through. Now, sir," he + said to Mr. Harvey, "will you draw out that pistol, whose butt projects + from his pocket, or your son may do one of us mischief yet?" + </p> + <p> + That such had been the man's intention was evident from the glance of + baffled rage he threw at Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "Now, sir, go," his father said sternly. "Remember that, henceforth, you + are no son of mine. Did I do my duty I should hand you over to the watch—not + for your threats to me, but for the sword-thrust you have given to Joseph + Edmonds, who has many times carried you on his shoulder when a child. You + may compass my death, but be assured that not one farthing will you gain + thereby. 'Vengeance is mine, saith the Lord.' I leave it to Him to pay it. + Now go." + </p> + <p> + John Harvey rose to his feet, and walked to the door. Then he turned and + shook his fist at Cyril. + </p> + <p> + "Curse you!" he said. "I will be even with you yet." + </p> + <p> + Cyril now had time to look round. His eye fell upon the figure of Mrs. + Harvey, who had fallen insensible. He made a step towards her, but her + husband said, "She has but fainted. This is more pressing," and he turned + to the old servant. Cyril aided him in lifting the old man up and laying + him on the couch. + </p> + <p> + "He breathes," said he. + </p> + <p> + "He is wounded to death," Mr. Harvey said sadly; "and my son hath done + it." + </p> + <p> + Cyril opened the servant's coat. + </p> + <p> + "Here is the wound, high up on the left side. It may not touch a vital + part. It bleeds freely, and I have heard that that is a good sign." + </p> + <p> + "It is so," Mr. Harvey said excitedly. "Perhaps he may yet recover. I + would give all that I am worth that it might be so, and that, bad as he + may be, the sin of this murder should not rest on my son's soul." + </p> + <p> + "I will run for the doctor, sir, but before I go let me help you to lift + your wife. She will doubtless come round shortly, and will aid you to + stanch the wound till the doctor comes." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harvey was indeed already showing signs of returning animation. She + was placed on a couch, and water sprinkled on her face. As soon as he saw + her eyes open Cyril caught up his hat and ran to Dr. Hodges. The doctor + had just finished his supper, and was on the point of going out again to + see some of his patients. On hearing from Cyril that a servant of some + friends of his had been wounded by a robber, he put some lint and bandages + in his pocket, and started with him. + </p> + <p> + "These robberies are becoming more and more frequent," he said; "and so + bold and reckless are the criminals that they seem to care not a jot + whether they add murder to their other crimes. Where do you say the wound + is?" + </p> + <p> + Cyril pointed below his own shoulder. + </p> + <p> + "It is just about there, doctor." + </p> + <p> + "Then it may be above the upper edge of the lung. If so, we may save the + man. Half an inch higher or lower will make all the difference between + life and death. As you say that it was bleeding freely, it is probable + that the sword has missed the lung, for had it pierced it, the bleeding + would have been chiefly internal, and the hope of saving him would have + been slight indeed." + </p> + <p> + When they reached the house Cyril found that Mrs. Harvey had quite + recovered. They had cut open the man's clothes and her husband was + pressing a handkerchief, closely folded, upon the wound. + </p> + <p> + "It is serious, but, I think, not vital," Dr. Hodges said, after examining + it. "I feel sure that the sword has missed the lung." + </p> + <p> + After cutting off the rest of the man's upper garments, he poured, from a + phial he had brought with him, a few drops of a powerful styptic into the + wound, placed a thick pad of lint over it, and bandaged it securely. Then, + giving directions that a small quantity of spirits and water should be + given to the patient from time to time, and, above all things, that he + should be kept perfectly quiet, he hurried away. + </p> + <p> + "Is there anything more I can do, sir?" Cyril asked Mr. Harvey. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing more. You will understand, sir, what our feelings are, and that + our hearts are too full of grief and emotion for us to speak. We shall + watch together to-night, and lay our case before the Lord." + </p> + <p> + "Then I will come early in the morning and see if there is aught I can do, + sir. I am going back now to Mr. Wallace, who was uneasy at your absence. I + suppose you would wish me to say only that I found that there was a robber + in the place who, having wounded your servant, was on the point of + attacking you when I entered, and that he fled almost immediately." + </p> + <p> + "That will do. Say to him that for to-night we shall be busy nursing, and + that my wife is greatly shaken; therefore I would not that he should come + round, but I pray him to call here in the morning." + </p> + <p> + "I will do so, sir." + </p> + <p> + Cyril went downstairs, closed the shutters of the window into which he had + broken, and put up the bars, and then went out at the door, taking special + pains to close it firmly behind him. + </p> + <p> + He was glad to be out of the house. He had seen many sad scenes during the + last few weeks, but it seemed to him that this was the saddest of all. + Better, a thousand times, to see a son stricken by the Plague than this. + He walked slowly back to the minister's. He met Mr. Wallace at the door of + his house. + </p> + <p> + "I was coming round," the latter said. "Of course one or other of them are + stricken?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; it was another cause that prevented their coming. Just as I + reached the house I heard a scream, and Mrs. Harvey appeared at the + casement calling for help. I forced open a window and ran up. I found that + a robber had entered the house. He had seriously wounded the old servant, + and was on the point of attacking Mr. Harvey when I entered. Taken by + surprise, the man fled almost immediately. Mrs. Harvey had fainted. At + first, we thought the servant was killed, but, finding that he lived, I + ran off and fetched Dr. Hodges, who has dressed the wound, and thinks that + the man has a good chance of recovery. As Mrs. Harvey had now come round, + and was capable of assisting her husband, they did not accept my offer to + stay and do anything I could. I said I was coming to you, and Mr. Harvey + asked me to say that, although they were too much shaken to see you this + evening, they should be glad if you would go round to them the first thing + in the morning." + </p> + <p> + "Then the robber got away unharmed?" Mr. Wallace asked. + </p> + <p> + "He was unharmed, sir. I would rather that you did not question me on the + subject. Mr. Harvey will doubtless enter fully into the matter with you in + the morning. We did not exchange many words, for he was greatly disturbed + in spirit at the wounding of his old servant, and the scene he had gone + through; and, seeing that he and his wife would rather be alone with their + patient, I left almost directly after Dr. Hodges went away. However, I may + say that I believe that there are private matters in the affair, which he + will probably himself communicate to you." + </p> + <p> + "Then I will ask no more questions, Cyril. I am well content to know that + it is not as I feared, and that the Plague had not attacked them." + </p> + <p> + "I said that I would call round in the morning, sir; but I have been + thinking of it as I came along, and consider that, as you will be there, + it is as well that I should not do so. I will come round here at ten + o'clock, and should you not have returned, will wait until you do. I do + not know that I can be of any use whatever, and do not wish to intrude + there. Will you kindly say this to them, but add that should they really + wish me to go, I will of course do so?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wallace looked a little puzzled. + </p> + <p> + "I will do as you ask me, but it seems to me that they will naturally wish + to see you, seeing that, had it not been for your arrival, they might have + been robbed and perhaps murdered." + </p> + <p> + "You will understand better when you have seen Mr. Harvey, sir. Now I will + be making for home; it is about my usual hour, and John Wilkes will be + beginning to wonder and worry about me." + </p> + <p> + To John, Cyril told the same story as to Mr. Wallace. + </p> + <p> + "But, how was it that you let the villain escape, Master Cyril? Why did + you not run him through the body?" + </p> + <p> + "I had other things to think of, John. There was Mrs. Harvey lying + insensible, and the servant desperately wounded, and I thought more of + these than of the robber, and was glad enough, when he ran out, to be able + to turn my attention to them." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, that was natural enough, lad; but 'tis a pity the villain got off + scot-free. Truly it is not safe for two old people to be in an empty house + by themselves in these times, specially as, maybe, the houses on either + side are also untenanted, and robbers can get into them and make their way + along the roof, and so enter any house they like by the windows there. It + was a mercy you chanced to come along. Men are so accustomed now to hear + screams and calls for aid, that none trouble themselves as to such sounds. + And you still feel quite well?" + </p> + <p> + "Never better, John, except for occasional twitches in my shoulder." + </p> + <p> + "It does not knit so fast as it should do," John said. "In the first + place, you are always on the move; then no one can go about into infected + houses without his spirits being disturbed, and of all things a calm and + easy disposition is essential for the proper healing of wounds. Lastly, it + is certain that when there is poison in the air wounds do not heal so + quickly as at other times." + </p> + <p> + "It is going on well enough, John; indeed, I could not desire it to do + better. As soon as it is fairly healed I ought to join Prince Rupert + again; but in truth I do not wish to go, for I would fain see this + terrible Plague come to an end before I leave; for never since the days of + the Black Death, hundreds of years ago, was there so strange and terrible + a malady in this country." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wallace had returned to his house when Cyril called the next morning. + </p> + <p> + "Thinking over what you said last night, Cyril, I arrived at a pretty + correct conclusion as to what had happened, though I thought not that it + could be as bad as it was. I knew the object with which Mr. Harvey and his + wife had come up to London, at a time when most men were fleeing from it. + Their son has, ever since he came up three years ago, been a source of + grievous trouble to them, as he was, indeed, for a long time previously. + Some natures seem naturally to turn to evil, and this boy's was one of + them. It may be that the life at home was too rigid and severe, and that + he revolted against it. Certain it is that he took to evil courses and + consorted with bad companions. Severity was unavailing. He would break out + of the house at night and be away for days. He was drunken and dissolute. + </p> + <p> + "At last, just after a considerable sum of money had come into the house + from the tenants' rents, he stole it, and went up to London. His name was + not mentioned at home, though his father learnt from correspondents here + that he had become a hanger-on of the Court, where, his father being a man + of condition, he found friends without difficulty. He was a gambler and a + brawler, and bore a bad reputation even among the riff-raff of the Court. + His father learnt that he had disappeared from sight at the time the Court + went to Oxford early in June, and his correspondent found that he was + reported to have joined a band of abandoned ruffians, whose least crimes + were those of robbery. + </p> + <p> + "When the Plague spread rapidly, Mr. Harvey and his wife determined to + come up to London, to make one more effort to draw him from his evil + courses. The only thing that they have been able to learn for certain was, + that he was one of the performers in that wicked mockery the dance of + death, but their efforts to trace him have otherwise failed. + </p> + <p> + "They had intended, if they had found him, and he would have made promises + of amendment, to have given him money that would have enabled him to go + over to America and begin a new life there, promising him a regular + allowance to maintain him in comfort. As they have many friends over + there, some of whom went abroad to settle before the Civil War broke out + here, they would be able to have news how he was going on; and if they + found he was living a decent life, and truly repented his past course, + they would in five years have had him back again, and reinstated him as + their heir. + </p> + <p> + "I knew their intentions in the matter, and have done my best to gain them + news of him. I did not believe in the reformation of one who had shown + himself to be of such evil spirit; but God is all-powerful, and might have + led him out from the slough into which he had fallen. + </p> + <p> + "Yesterday evening, half an hour before you went there, his father and + mother were astonished at his suddenly entering. He saluted them at first + with ironical politeness, and said that having heard from one from the + same part of the country that he had seen them in London, he had had the + streets thereabouts watched, and having found where they lodged, had come + to pay his respects. + </p> + <p> + "There was a reckless bravado in his manner that alarmed his mother, and + it was not long before the purpose of his visit came out. He demanded that + his father should at once sign a deed which he had brought drawn out in + readiness, assigning to him at once half his property. + </p> + <p> + "'You have,' he said, 'far more than you can require. Living as you do, + you must save three-quarters of your income, and it would be at once an + act of charity, and save you the trouble of dealing with money that is of + no use to you.' + </p> + <p> + "His father indignantly refused to take any such step, and then told him + the plans he had himself formed for him. At this he laughed scoffingly. + </p> + <p> + "'You have the choice,' he said, 'of giving me half, or of my taking + everything.' And then he swore with terrible oaths that unless his father + signed the paper, that day should be his last. 'You are in my power,' he + said, 'and I am desperate. Do you think that if three dead bodies are + found in a house now any will trouble to inquire how they came to their + end? They will be tossed into the plague-cart, and none will make inquiry + about them.' + </p> + <p> + "Hearing voices raised in anger, the old servant ran in. At once the + villain drew and ran at him, passing his sword through his body. Then, as + if transported at the sight of the blood he had shed, he turned upon his + father. It was at this moment that his mother ran to the window and called + for help. He dragged her back, and as she fell fainting with horror and + fear he again turned upon his father; his passion grew hotter and hotter + as the latter, upbraiding him with the deed he had done, refused to sign; + and there is no doubt that he would have taken his life had you not + luckily ran in at this moment. + </p> + <p> + "It has truly been a terrible night for them. They have passed it in + prayer, and when I went this morning were both calm and composed, though + it was easy to see by their faces how they had suffered, and how much the + blow has told upon them. They have determined to save their son from any + further temptation to enrich himself by their deaths. I fetched a lawyer + for them; and when I left Mr. Harvey was giving him instructions for + drawing up his will, by which every farthing is left away from him. They + request me to go to them this evening with two or three of our friends to + witness it, as it is necessary in a time like this that a will should be + witnessed by as many as possible, as some may be carried off by the + Plague; and should all the witnesses be dead, the will might be disputed + as a forgery. So the lawyer will bring his clerks with him, and I shall + take four or five of our friends. + </p> + <p> + "They will return to the country as soon as their servant can be moved. + Dr. Hodges came when I was there, and gives hopes that the cure will be a + speedy one. We are going to place some men in the house. I have among my + poorer friends two men who will be glad to establish themselves there with + their wives, seeing that they will pay no rent, and will receive wages as + long as Mr. Harvey remains there. There will thus be no fear of any + repetition of the attempt. Mr. Harvey, on my advice, will also draw up and + sign a paper giving a full account of the occurrence of last evening, and + will leave this in the hands of the lawyer. + </p> + <p> + "This will be a protection to him should his son follow him into the + country, as he will then be able to assure him that if he proceeds to + violence suspicion will at once fall upon him, and he will be arrested for + his murder. But, indeed, the poor gentleman holds but little to his life; + and it was only on my representing to him that this document might be the + means of averting the commission of the most terrible of all sins from the + head of his son, that he agreed to sign it. I gave him your message, and + he prays me to say that, deeply grateful as he and his wife are to you, + not so much for the saving of their lives, as for preventing their son's + soul being stained by the crime, they would indeed rather that you did not + call for a time, for they are so sorely shaken that they do not feel equal + to seeing you. You will not, I hope, take this amiss." + </p> + <p> + "By no means," Cyril replied; "it is but a natural feeling; and, in truth, + I myself am relieved that such is their decision, for it would be + well-nigh as painful to me as to them to see them again, and to talk over + the subject." + </p> + <p> + "By the way, Cyril, Mr. Harvey said that when you saw his son you cried + out his name, and that by the manner in which he turned upon you it was + clear that he had some cause for hating you. Is this so, or was it merely + his fancy?" + </p> + <p> + "It was no fancy, sir. It is not long since I thwarted his attempt to + carry off the daughter of a city merchant, to whom he had represented + himself as a nobleman. He was in the act of doing so, with the aid of some + friends, when, accompanied by John Wilkes, I came up. There was a fray, in + the course of which I ran him through the shoulder. The young lady + returned home with us, and has since heartily repented of her folly. I had + not seen the man since that time till I met him yesterday; but certainly + the house was watched for some time, as I believe, by his associates who + would probably have done me an ill turn had I gone out after nightfall." + </p> + <p> + "That explains it, Cyril. I will tell Mr. Harvey, whose mind has been much + puzzled by your recognition of his son." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII — SMITTEN DOWN + </h2> + <p> + Two days later, Cyril started at his usual hour to go to Dr. Hodges'; but + he had proceeded but a few yards when a man, who was leaning against the + wall, suddenly lurched forward and caught him round the neck. Thinking + that the fellow had been drinking, Cyril angrily tried to shake him off. + As he did so the man's hat, which had been pressed down over his eyes, + fell off, and, to his astonishment, Cyril recognised John Harvey. + </p> + <p> + "You villain! What are you doing here?" he exclaimed, as he freed himself + from the embrace, sending his assailant staggering back against the wall. + </p> + <p> + The man's face lit up with a look of savage exultation.. + </p> + <p> + "I told you you should hear from me again," he said, "and I have kept my + word. I knew the hour you went out, and I have been waiting for you. You + are a doomed man. I have the Plague, and I have breathed in your face. + Before twenty-four hours have passed you will be, as I am, a dying man. + That is a good piece of vengeance. You may be a better swordsman than I + am, but you can't fight with the Plague." + </p> + <p> + Cyril drew back in horror. As he did so, a change came over John Harvey's + face, he muttered a few words incoherently, swayed backwards and forwards, + and then slid to the ground in a heap. A rush of blood poured from his + mouth, and he fell over dead. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had seen more than one similar death in the streets, but the + horrible malignity of this man, and his sudden death, gave him a terrible + shock. He felt for the moment completely unmanned, and, conscious that he + was too unhinged for work, he turned and went back to the house. + </p> + <p> + "You look pale, lad," John Wilkes said, as Cyril went upstairs. "What + brings you back so soon?" + </p> + <p> + "I have had rather a shock, John." And he told him of what had happened. + </p> + <p> + "That was enough to startle you, lad. I should say the best thing you + could do would be to take a good strong tumbler of grog, and then lay + down." + </p> + <p> + "That I will do, and will take a dose of the medicine Dr. Hodges makes + everyone take when the infection first shows itself in a house. As you + know, I have never had any fear of the Plague hitherto. I don't say that I + am afraid of it now, but I have run a far greater risk of catching it than + I have ever done before, for until now I have never been in actual contact + with anyone with the disease." + </p> + <p> + After a sleep Cyril rose, and feeling himself again, went to call upon Mr. + Wallace. + </p> + <p> + "I shall not come again for a few days," he said, after telling him what + had happened, but without mentioning the name of John Harvey, "but I will + send you a note every other day by John Wilkes. If he does not come, you + will know that I have taken the malady, and in that case, Mr. Wallace, I + know that I shall have your prayers for my recovery. I am sure that I + shall be well cared for by John Wilkes." + </p> + <p> + "Of my prayers you maybe sure, Cyril; and, indeed, I have every faith + that, should you catch the malady, you will recover from it. You have + neither well-nigh frightened yourself to death, nor have you dosed + yourself with drugs until nature was exhausted before the struggle began. + You will, I am sure, be calm and composed, and above all you have faith in + God, and the knowledge that you have done your part to carry out His + orders, and to visit the sick and aid those in sorrow." + </p> + <p> + The next day Cyril was conscious of no change except that he felt a + disinclination to exert himself. The next morning he had a feeling of + nausea. + </p> + <p> + "I think that I am in for it, John," he said. "But at any rate it can do + no harm to try that remedy you spoke of that is used in the East. First of + all, let us fumigate the room. As far as I have seen, the smoke of tobacco + is the best preservative against the Plague. Now do you, John, keep a bit + of tobacco in your mouth." + </p> + <p> + "That I mostly do, lad." + </p> + <p> + "Well, keep a bigger bit than usual, John, and smoke steadily. Still, that + will not be enough. Keep the fire burning, and an iron plate heated to + redness over it. Bring that into my room from time to time, and burn + tobacco on it. Keep the room full of smoke." + </p> + <p> + "I will do that," John said, "but you must not have too much of it. I am + an old hand, and have many times sat in a fo'castle so full of smoke that + one could scarce see one's hands, but you are not accustomed to it, and it + may like enough make you sick." + </p> + <p> + "There will be no harm in that, John, so that one does not push it too + far. Now, how are you going to set about this sweating process?" + </p> + <p> + "While you undress and get into bed I will get a blanket ready. It is to + be dipped in boiling water, and then wrung out until it is as dry as we + can get it. Then you are wrapped in that, and then rolled in five or six + dry blankets to keep in the heat. You will keep in that until you feel + almost weak with sweating; then I take you out and sponge you with warmish + water, and then wrap you in another dry blanket." + </p> + <p> + "You had better sponge me with vinegar, John." + </p> + <p> + Cyril undressed. When he had done so he carefully examined himself, and + his eye soon fell on a black spot on the inside of his leg, just above the + knee. It was the well-known sign of the Plague. + </p> + <p> + "I have got it, John," he said, when the latter entered with a pile of + blankets. + </p> + <p> + "Well, then, we have got to fight it, Master Cyril, and we will beat it if + it is to be beaten. Now, lad, for the hot blanket." + </p> + <p> + "Lay it down on the bed, and I will wrap myself in it, and the same with + the others. Now I warn you, you are not to come nearer to me than you can + help, and above all you are not to lean over me. If you do, I will turn + you out of the room and lock the door, and fight it out by myself. Now + puff away at that pipe, and the moment you wrap me up get the room full of + smoke." + </p> + <p> + John nodded. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you bother about me," he growled. "I reckon the Plague ain't going + to touch such a tough old bit of seasoned mahogany as I am. Still, I will + do as you tell me." + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes Cyril was in a profuse perspiration, in which even his + head, which was above the blankets, shared. + </p> + <p> + "That is grand," John said complacently. + </p> + <p> + The cloud of tobacco, with which the room was soon filled, was not long in + having the effect that John had predicted, and Cyril was soon violently + sick, which had the effect of further increasing the perspiration. + </p> + <p> + "You must open the window and let the smoke out a bit, John," he gasped. + "I can't stand any more of it." + </p> + <p> + This was done, and for another hour Cyril lay between the blankets. + </p> + <p> + "I shall faint if I lie here any longer," he said at last. "Now, John, do + you go out of the room, and don't come back again until I call you. I see + you have put the vinegar handy. It is certain that if this is doing me any + good the blankets will be infected. You say you have got a big fire in the + kitchen. Well, I shall take them myself, and hang them up in front of it, + and you are not to go into the room till they are perfectly dry again. You + had better light another fire at once in the parlour, and you can do any + cooking there. I will keep the kitchen for my blankets." + </p> + <p> + John nodded and left the room, and Cyril at once proceeded to unroll the + blankets. As he came to the last he was conscious of a strong fetid odour, + similar to that he had more than once perceived in houses infected by the + Plague. + </p> + <p> + "I believe it is drawing it out of me," he said to himself. "I will give + it another trial presently." + </p> + <p> + He first sponged himself with vinegar, and felt much refreshed. He then + wrapped himself up and lay down for a few minutes, for he felt strangely + weak. Then he got up and carried the blankets into the kitchen, where a + huge fire had been made up by John. He threw the one that had been next to + him into a tub, and poured boiling water on it, and the others he hung on + chairs round it. Then he went back to his room, and lay down and slept for + half an hour. He returned to the kitchen and rearranged the blankets. When + John saw him go back to his room he followed him. + </p> + <p> + "I have got some strong broth ready," he said. "Do you think that you + could take a cupful?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, and a good-sized one, John. I feel sure that the sweating has done me + good, and I will have another turn at it soon. You must go at once and + report that I have got it, or when the examiners come round, and find that + the Plague is in the house, you will be fined, or perhaps imprisoned. + Before you go there, please leave word at Dr. Hodges' that I am ill, and + you might also call at Mr. Wallace's and leave the same message. Tell + them, in both cases, that I have everything that I want, and trust that I + shall make a good recovery." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir; I will be off as soon as I have brought you in your broth, + and will be back here in half an hour." + </p> + <p> + Cyril drank the broth, and then dozed again until John returned. When he + heard his step he called out to him to bring the hot iron, and he filled + the room with tobacco smoke before allowing him to enter. + </p> + <p> + "Now, John, the blankets are dry, and can be handled again, and I am ready + for another cooking." + </p> + <p> + Four times that day did Cyril undergo the sweating process. By the evening + he was as weak as a child, but his skin was soft and cool, and he was free + from all feeling of pain or uneasiness. Dr. Hodges called half an hour + after he had taken it for the last time, having only received his message + when he returned late from a terrible day's work. Cyril had just turned in + for the night. + </p> + <p> + "Well, lad, how are you feeling? I am so sorry that I did not get your + message before." + </p> + <p> + "I am feeling very well, doctor." + </p> + <p> + "Your hand is moist and cool," Dr. Hodges said in surprise. "You must have + been mistaken. I see no signs whatever of the Plague." + </p> + <p> + "There was no mistake, doctor; there were the black marks on my thighs, + but I think I have pretty well sweated it out of me." + </p> + <p> + He then described the process he had followed, and said that John Wilkes + had told him that it was practised in the Levant. + </p> + <p> + "Sweating is greatly used here, and I have tried it very repeatedly among + my patients, and in some cases, where I had notice of the disease early, + have saved them. Some bleed before sweating, but I have not heard of one + who did so who recovered. In many cases the patient, from terror or from + weakness of body, cannot get up the heat required, and even if they arrive + at it, have not the strength to support it. In your case you lost no time; + you had vital heat in plenty, and you had strength to keep up the heat in + full force until you washed, as it were, the malady out of you. Henceforth + I shall order that treatment with confidence when patients come to me whom + I suspect to have the Plague, although it may not have as yet fully + declared itself. What have you done with the blankets?" + </p> + <p> + "I would not suffer John to touch them, but carried them myself into the + kitchen. The blankets next to me I throw into a tub and pour boiling water + over them; the others I hang up before a huge fire, so as to be dry for + the next operation. I take care that John does not enter the kitchen." + </p> + <p> + "How often have you done this?" + </p> + <p> + "Four times, and lay each time for an hour in the blankets. I feel very + weak, and must have lost very many pounds in weight, but my head is clear, + and I suffer no pain whatever. The marks on my legs have not spread, and + seem to me less dark in colour than they were." + </p> + <p> + "Your case is the most hopeful that I have seen," Dr. Hodges said. "The + system has had every advantage, and to this it owes its success. In the + first place, you began it as soon as you felt unwell. Most people would + have gone on for another twelve hours before they paid much attention to + the first symptoms, and might not have noticed the Plague marks even when + they went to bed. In the second place, you are cool and collected, and + voluntarily delivered yourself to the treatment. And in the third place, + which is the most important perhaps of all, you were in good health + generally. You had not weakened yourself by swallowing every nostrum + advertised, or wearing yourself out by vain terrors. Ninety-nine cases out + of a hundred would be probably beyond the reach of help before they were + conscious of illness, and be too weak to stand so severe a strain on the + system as that you have undergone. Another thing is that the remedy could + hardly be attempted in a house full of frightened people. There would be + sure to be carelessness in the matter of the blankets, which, unless + treated as you have done, would be a certain means of spreading the + infection over the house. At any rate, I would continue the sweating as + long as you can possibly stand it. Take nourishment in the shape of broth + frequently, but in small quantity. I would do it again at midnight; 'tis + well not to let the virus have time to gather strength again. I see you + have faith in tobacco." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, doctor. I never let John Wilkes into the room after I have taken a + bath until it is full of tobacco smoke. I have twice made myself ill with + it to-day." + </p> + <p> + "Don't carry it too far, lad; for although I also believe in the virtue of + the weed, 'tis a powerful poison, and you do not want to weaken yourself. + Well, I see I can do nothing for you. You and your man seem to me to have + treated the attack far more successfully than I should have done; for, + indeed, this month very few of those attacked have recovered, whatever the + treatment has been. I shall come round early tomorrow morning to see how + you are going on. At present nothing can be better. Since the first + outbreak, I have not seen a single case in which the patient was in so + fair a way towards recovery in so short a time after the discovery of the + infection." + </p> + <p> + John Wilkes at this moment came in with a basin of broth. + </p> + <p> + "This is my good friend, John Wilkes, doctor." + </p> + <p> + "You ought to be called Dr. John Wilkes," the doctor, who was one of the + most famous of his time, said, with a smile, as he shook hands with him. + "Your treatment seems to be doing wonders." + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me he is doing well, doctor, but I am afraid he is carrying + it too far; he is so weak he can hardly stand." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind that," the doctor said; "it will be easy enough to build him + up when we have once got the Plague out of him. I have told him to have + another turn in the blankets at twelve o'clock to-night; it will not do to + let the malady get a fresh hold of him. But don't push it too far, lad. If + you begin to feel faint, stop it, even if you have not been a quarter of + an hour in the blankets. Do not cover yourself up too warmly when you have + done; let nature have a rest. I shall be round between eight and nine, and + no doubt you will have had another bath before I come. Do not sleep in the + room, Wilkes; he is sure to go off soundly to sleep, and there is no use + your running any needless risk. Let his window stand open; indeed, it + should always be open, except when he gets out of his blankets, or is + fumigating the room. Let him have a chair by the open window, so as to get + as much fresh air as possible; but be sure that he is warmly wrapped up + with blankets, so as to avoid getting a chill. You might place a hand-bell + by the side of his bed to-night, so that he can summons you should he have + occasion." + </p> + <p> + When the doctor came next morning he nodded approvingly as soon as he felt + Cyril's hand. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing could be better," he said; "your pulse is even quieter than last + night. Now let me look at those spots." + </p> + <p> + "They are fainter," Cyril said. + </p> + <p> + "A great deal," Dr. Hodges said, in a tone of the greatest pleasure. + "Thank God, my lad, it is dying out. Not above three or four times since + the Plague began have I been able to say so. I shall go about my work with + a lighter heart today, and shall order your treatment in every case where + I see the least chance of its being carried out, but I cannot hope that it + will often prove as successful as it has with you. You have had everything + in your favour—youth, a good constitution, a tranquil mind, an + absence of fear, and a faith in God." + </p> + <p> + "And a good attendant, doctor—don't forget that." + </p> + <p> + "No, that goes for a great deal, lad—for a great deal. Not one nurse + out of a hundred would carry out my instructions carefully; not one + patient in a thousand would be able to see that they were carried out. Of + course you will keep on with the treatment, but do not push it to + extremes; you have pulled yourself down prodigiously, and must not go too + far. Do you perceive any change in the odour when you take off the + blankets?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, doctor, a great change; I could scarcely distinguish it this + morning, and indeed allowed John Wilkes to carry them out, as I don't + think I myself could have walked as far as the kitchen, though it is but + ten or twelve paces away. I told him to smoke furiously all the time, and + to come out of the kitchen as soon as he had hung them up." + </p> + <p> + Cyril took three more baths in the course of the day, but was only able to + sustain them for twenty minutes each, as by the end of that time he nearly + fainted. The doctor came in late in the evening. + </p> + <p> + "The spots are gone, doctor," Cyril said. + </p> + <p> + "Then I think you may consider yourself cured, lad. Do not take the + treatment again to-night; you can take it once in the morning; and then if + I find the spots have not reappeared by the time I come, I shall pronounce + the cure as complete, and shall begin to build you up again." + </p> + <p> + The doctor was able to give this opinion in the morning. + </p> + <p> + "I shall not come again, lad, unless you send for me, for every moment of + my time is very precious, and I shall leave you in the hands of Dr. + Wilkes. All you want now is nourishment; but take it carefully at first, + and not too much at a time; stick to broths for the next two or three + days, and when you do begin with solids do so very sparingly." + </p> + <p> + "There was a gentleman here yesterday asking about you," John Wilkes said, + as Cyril, propped up in bed, sipped his broth. "It was Mr. Harvey. He rang + at the bell, and I went down to the lower window and talked to him through + that, for of course the watchman would not let me go out and speak to him. + I had heard you speak of him as one of the gentlemen you met at the + minister's, and he seemed muchly interested in you. He said that you had + done him a great service, and of course I knew it was by frightening that + robber away. I never saw a man more pleased than he was when I told him + that the doctor thought you were as good as cured, and he thanked God very + piously for the same. After he had done that, he asked me first whether + you had said anything to me about him. I said that you had told me you had + met him and his wife at the minister's, and that you said you had + disturbed a robber you found at his house. He said, quite sharp, 'Nothing + more?' 'No, not as I can think of. He is always doing good to somebody,' + says I, 'and never a word would he say about it, if it did not get found + out somehow. Why, he saved Prince Rupert's ship from being blown up by a + fire-vessel, and never should we have known of it if young Lord Oliphant + had not written to the Captain telling him all about it, and saying that + it was the gallantest feat done in the battle. Then there were other + things, but they were of the nature of private affairs.' 'You can tell me + about them, my good man,' he said; 'I am no vain babbler; and as you may + well believe, from what he did for me, and for other reasons, I would fain + know as much as I can of him.' So then I told him about how you found out + about the robbery and saved master from being ruined, and how you + prevented Miss Nellie from going off with a rascal who pretended he was an + earl." + </p> + <p> + "Then you did very wrong, John," Cyril said angrily. "I say naught about + your speaking about the robbery, for that was told in open Court, but you + ought not, on any account, to have said a word about Mistress Nellie's + affairs." + </p> + <p> + "Well, your honour, I doubt not Mistress Nellie herself would have told + the gentleman had she been in my place. I am sure he can be trusted not to + let it go further. I took care to tell him what good it had done Mistress + Nellie, and that good had come out of evil." + </p> + <p> + "Well, you ought not to have said anything about it, John. It may be that + Mistress Nellie out of her goodness of heart might herself have told, but + that is no reason why anyone else should do so. I charge you in future + never to open your lips about that to anyone, no matter who. I say not + that any harm will come of it in this case, for Mr. Harvey is indeed a + sober and God-fearing man, and assuredly asked only because he felt an + interest in me, and from no idle curiosity. Still, I would rather that he + had not known of a matter touching the honour of Mistress Nellie." + </p> + <p> + "Mum's the word in future, Master Cyril. I will keep the hatches fast down + on my tongue. Now I will push your bed up near the window as the doctor + ordered, and then I hope you will get a good long sleep." + </p> + <p> + The Plague and the process by which it had been expelled had left Cyril so + weak that it was some days before he could walk across the room. Every + morning he inquired anxiously of John how he felt, and the answer was + always satisfactory. John had never been better in his life; therefore, by + the time Cyril was able to walk to his easy-chair by the window, he began + to hope that John had escaped the infection, which generally declared + itself within a day or two, and often within a few hours, of the first + outbreak in a house. + </p> + <p> + A week later the doctor, who paid him a flying visit every two or three + days, gave him the welcome news that he had ordered the red cross to be + removed from the door, and the watchmen to cease their attendance, as the + house might now be considered altogether free from infection. + </p> + <p> + The Plague continued its ravages with but slight abatement, moving + gradually eastward, and Aldgate and the district lying east of the walls + were now suffering terribly. It was nearly the end of September before + Cyril was strong enough to go out for his first walk. Since the beginning + of August some fifty thousand people had been carried off, so that the + streets were now almost entirely deserted, and in many places the grass + was shooting up thickly in the road. In some streets every house bore the + sign of a red cross, and the tolling of the bells of the dead-carts and + piteous cries and lamentations were the only sounds that broke the strange + silence. + </p> + <p> + The scene was so disheartening that Cyril did not leave the house again + for another fortnight. His first visit was to Mr. Wallace. The sight of a + watchman at the door gave him quite a shock, and he was grieved indeed + when he heard from the man that the brave minister had died a fortnight + before. Then he went to Mr. Harvey's. There was no mark on the door, but + his repeated knockings met with no response, and a woman, looking out from + a window opposite, called to him that the house had been empty for + well-nigh a month, and the people that were in it had gone off in a cart, + she supposed into the country. + </p> + <p> + "There was a gentleman and lady," she said, "who seemed well enough, and + their servant, who was carried down and placed in the cart. It could not + have been the Plague, though the man looked as if he had been sorely ill." + </p> + <p> + The next day he called on Dr. Hodges, who had not been near him for the + last month. There was no watchman at the door, and his man opened it. + </p> + <p> + "Can I see the doctor?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, you can see him," he said; "he is cured now, and will soon be about + again." + </p> + <p> + "Has he had the Plague, then?" + </p> + <p> + "That he has, but it is a week now since the watchman left." + </p> + <p> + Cyril went upstairs. The doctor was sitting, looking pale and thin, by the + window. + </p> + <p> + "I am grieved indeed to hear that you have been ill, doctor," Cyril said; + "had I known it I should have come a fortnight since, for I was strong + enough to walk this distance then. I did indeed go out, but the streets + had so sad an aspect that I shrank from stirring out again." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I have had it," the doctor said. "Directly I felt it come on I + followed your system exactly, but it had gone further with me than it had + with you, and it was a week before I fairly drove the enemy out. I ordered + sweating in every case, but, as you know, they seldom sent for me until + too late, and it is rare that the system got a fair chance. However, in my + case it was a complete success. Two of my servants died; they were taken + when I was at my worst. Both were dead before I was told of it. The man + you saw was the one who waited on me, and as I adopted all the same + precautions you had taken with your man, he did not catch it, and it was + only when he went downstairs one day and found the other two servants + lying dead in the kitchen that he knew they had been ill." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Wallace has gone, you will be sorry to hear, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry," the doctor said; "but no one was more fitted to die. He was + a brave man and a true Christian, but he ran too many risks, and your news + does not surprise me." + </p> + <p> + "The only other friends I have, Mr. Harvey and his wife, went out of town + a month ago, taking with them their servant." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I saw them the day before I was taken ill," the doctor said, "and + told them that the man was so far out of danger that he might safely be + moved. They seemed very interested in you, and were very pleased when I + told them that I had now given up attending you, and that you were able to + walk across the room, and would, erelong, be yourself again. I hope we are + getting to the end of it now, lad. As the Plague travels East it abates in + the West, and the returns for the last week show a distinct fall in the + rate of mortality. There is no further East for it to go now, and I hope + that in another few weeks it will have worn itself out. We are half + through October, and may look for cold weather before long." + </p> + <p> + "I should think that I am strong enough to be useful again now, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think you are strong enough, and I am sure I shall not give you + leave to do so," the doctor said. "I can hardly say how far a first attack + is a protection against a second, for the recoveries have been so few that + we have scarce means of knowing, but there certainly have been cases where + persons have recovered from a first attack and died from a second. Your + treatment is too severe to be gone through twice, and it is, therefore, + more essential that you should run no risk of infection than it was + before. I can see that you are still very far from strong, and your duty + now is, in the first place, to regain your health. I should say get on + board a hoy and go to Yarmouth. A week in the bracing air there would do + you more good than six months here. But it is useless to give you that + advice, because, in the first place, no shipping comes up the river, and, + even if you could get down to Yarmouth by road, no one would receive you. + Still, that is what I should do myself as soon as I could get away, were + it not that, in my case, I have my duties here." + </p> + <p> + "But, doctor, what you said to me surely applies to yourself also?" Cyril + said, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "I know that," the doctor said good-humouredly, "and expected it, but it + is not for a doctor to choose. He is not free, like other men; he has + adopted a vocation in which it is his first duty to go among the sick, + whatever their ailment may be, to do all that he can for them, and if, as + in the present case, he can do practically nothing else, to set them an + example of calmness and fearlessness. Still, for a time, at any rate, I + shall be able to go no more into houses where the Plague is raging. 'Tis + more than a month since you were cured, yet you are still a mere shadow of + what you were. I had a much harder fight with the enemy, and cannot walk + across the room yet without William's help. Therefore, it will be a + fortnight or three weeks yet before I can see patients, and much longer + before I shall have strength to visit them in their houses. By that time I + trust that the Plague will have very greatly abated. Thus, you see, I + shall not be called upon to stand face to face with it for some time. + Those who call upon me here are seldom Plague-stricken. They come for + other ailments, or because they feel unwell, and are nervous lest it + should be the beginning of an attack; but of late I have had very few come + here. My patients are mostly of the middle class, and these have either + fled or fallen victims to the Plague, or have shut themselves up in their + houses like fortresses, and nothing would tempt them to issue abroad. + Therefore, I expect that I shall have naught to do but to gain strength + again. Come here when you will, lad, and the oftener the better. + Conversation is the best medicine for both of us, and as soon as I can I + will visit you. I doubt not that John Wilkes has many a story of the sea + that will take our thoughts away from this sad city. Bring him with you + sometimes; he is an honest fellow, and the talk of sailors so smacks of + the sea that it seems almost to act as a tonic." + </p> + <p> + Cyril stayed for an hour, and promised to return on the following evening. + He said, however, that he was sure John Wilkes would not accompany him. + </p> + <p> + "He never leaves the house unless I am in it. He considers himself on + duty; and although, as I tell him, there is little fear of anyone breaking + in, seeing how many houses with much more valuable and more portable goods + are empty and deserted, he holds to his purpose, saying that, even with + the house altogether empty, it would be just as much his duty to remain in + charge." + </p> + <p> + "Well, come yourself, Cyril. If we cannot get this old watch-dog out I + must wait until I can go to him." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be very glad to come, doctor, for time hangs heavily on my hands. + John Wilkes spends hours every day in washing and scrubbing decks, as he + calls it, and there are but few books in the house." + </p> + <p> + "As to that, I can furnish you, and will do so gladly. Go across to the + shelves there, and choose for yourself." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you very much indeed, sir. But will you kindly choose for me? I + have read but few English books, for of course in France my reading was + entirely French." + </p> + <p> + "Then take Shakespeare. I hold his writings to be the finest in our + tongue. I know them nearly by heart, for there is scarce an evening when I + do not take him down for an hour, and reading him I forget the worries and + cares of my day's work, which would otherwise often keep me from sleep. + 'Tis a bulky volume, but do not let that discourage you; it is full of wit + and wisdom, and of such romance that you will often find it hard to lay it + down. Stay—I have two editions, and can well spare one of them, so + take the one on that upper shelf, and keep it when you have read it. There + is but little difference between them, but I generally use the other, and + have come to look upon it as a friend." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, sir, I will take it as a loan." + </p> + <p> + "You will do nothing of the sort. I owe you a fee, and a bumping one." + </p> + <p> + Henceforth Cyril did not find his time hang heavy on his hands. It seemed + to him, as he sat at the window and read, that a new world opened to him. + His life had been an eminently practical one. He had studied hard in + France, and when he laid his books aside his time had been spent in the + open air. It was only since he had been with Captain Dave that he had ever + read for amusement, and the Captain's library consisted only of a few + books of travels and voyages. He had never so much as dreamt of a book + like this, and for the next few days he devoured its pages. + </p> + <p> + "You are not looking so well, Cyril," Dr. Hodges said to him abruptly one + day. + </p> + <p> + "I am doing nothing but reading Shakespeare, doctor." + </p> + <p> + "Then you are doing wrong, lad. You will never build yourself up unless + you take exercise." + </p> + <p> + "The streets are so melancholy, doctor, and whenever I go out I return + sick at heart and in low spirits." + </p> + <p> + "That I can understand, lad. But we must think of something," and he sat + for a minute or two in silence. Then he said suddenly, "Do you understand + the management of a boat?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, doctor; it was my greatest pleasure at Dunkirk to be out with the + fishermen." + </p> + <p> + "That will do, then. Go down at once to the riverside. There are hundreds + of boats lying idle there, for there are no passengers and no trade, and + half of their owners are dead. You are sure to see some men there; having + nothing else to do, some will be hanging about. Say you want to hire a + boat for a couple of months or to buy one. You will probably get one for a + few shillings. Get one with a sail as well as oars. Go out the first thing + after breakfast, and go up or down the river as the tide or wind may suit. + Take some bread and meat with you, and don't return till supper-time. Then + you can spend your evenings with Shakespeare. Maybe I myself will come + down and take a sail with you sometimes. That will bring the colour back + into your cheeks, and make a new man of you. Would that I had thought of + it before!" + </p> + <p> + Cyril was delighted with the idea, and, going down to Blackfriars, bought + a wherry with a sail for a pound. Its owner was dead, but he learned where + the widow lived, and effected the bargain without difficulty, for she was + almost starving. + </p> + <p> + "I have bought it," he said, "because it may be that I may get it damaged + or sunk; but I only need it for six weeks or two months, and at the end of + that time I will give it you back again. As soon as the Plague is over + there will be work for boats, and you will be able to let it, or to sell + it at a fair price." + </p> + <p> + John Wilkes was greatly pleased when Cyril came back and told him what he + had done. + </p> + <p> + "That is the very thing for you," he said. "I have been a thick-head not + to think of it. I have been worrying for the last week at seeing you sit + there and do nothing but read, and yet there seemed nothing else for you + to do, for ten minutes out in the streets is enough to give one the + heartache. Maybe I will go out for a sail with you myself sometimes, for + there is no fear of the house being broken into by daylight." + </p> + <p> + "Not in the slightest, John. I hope that you will come out with me always. + I should soon find it dull by myself, and besides, I don't think that I am + strong enough yet to manage a pair of sculls for long, and one must reckon + occasionally on having to row against the tide. Even if the worst + happened, and anyone did break in and carry off a few things, I am sure + Captain Dave would not grumble at the loss when he knew that I had wanted + you to come out and help me to manage the boat, which I was ordered to use + for my health's sake." + </p> + <p> + "That he wouldn't," John said heartily; "not if they stripped the house + and shop of everything there was in them." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII — A STROKE OF GOOD FORTUNE + </h2> + <p> + Having finally disposed of John Wilkes's scruples as to leaving the house + during the daytime, Cyril thenceforth went out with him every day. If the + tide was in flood they rowed far up the river, and came down on the ebb. + If it was running out they went down as far as it would take them. + Whenever the wind was favourable they hoisted the sail; at other times, + they rowed. The fresh air, and the exercise, soon did their work. Cyril at + first could only take one scull, and that only for a short time, but at + the end of a fortnight was able to manage both for a time, or to row with + one for hours. The feeling of lassitude which had oppressed him passed + away speedily, the colour came back to his cheeks, his muscles + strengthened, and he began to put on flesh. + </p> + <p> + They were now in November, and needed warm garments when on the water, and + John insisted on completely muffling him up whenever they hoisted the + sail; but the colder weather braced him up, and he was often inclined to + shout with pleasure as the wind drove the boat along before it. + </p> + <p> + It was cheering to know that others were benefiting by the change. In the + week ending October 3rd the deaths officially given were 4,328, though at + least another thousand must be added to this, for great numbers of deaths + from the Plague were put down to other causes, and very many, especially + those of infants, were never counted at all. It was said that as many + people were infected as ever, but that the virulence of the disease was + abated, and that, whereas in August scarce one of those attacked + recovered, in October but one out of every three died of the malady. + </p> + <p> + In the second week of October, the number of deaths by the Plague was but + 2,665, and only 1,250 in the third week, though great numbers were still + attacked. People, however, grew careless, and ran unnecessary risks, and, + in consequence, in the first week of November the number of deaths rose by + 400. After this it decreased rapidly, and the people who had fled began to + come back again—the more so because it had now spread to other large + cities, and it seemed that there was less danger in London, where it had + spent its force, than in places where it had but lately broken out. The + shops began to open again, and the streets to reassume their former + appearance. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had written several times to Captain Dowsett, telling him how + matters were going on, and in November, hearing that they were thinking of + returning, he wrote begging them not to do so. + </p> + <p> + "Many of those who have returned have fallen sick, and died," he said. "It + seems to me but a useless risk of life, after taking so much pains to + avoid infection, to hurry back before the danger has altogether passed. In + your case, Captain Dave, there is the less reason for it, since there is + no likelihood of the shipping trade being renewed for the present. All the + ports of Europe are closed to our ships, and it is like to be a long time + before they lose fear of us. Even the coasting trade is lost for the + present. Therefore, my advice is very strongly against your returning for + some weeks. All is going on well here. I am getting quite strong again, + and, by the orders of the doctor, go out with John daily for a long row, + and have gained much benefit from it. John sends his respects. He says + that everything is ship-shape above and below, and the craft holding well + on her way. He also prays you not to think of returning at present, and + says that it would be as bad seamanship, as for a captain who has made a + good offing in a gale, and has plenty of sea-room, to run down close to a + rocky shore under the lee, before the storm has altogether blown itself + out." + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave took the advice, and only returned with his wife and Nellie a + week before Christmas. + </p> + <p> + "I am glad indeed to be back," he said, after the first greetings were + over. "'Twas well enough for the women, who used to help in the dairy, and + to feed the fowls, and gather the eggs, and make the butter, but for me + there was nothing to do, and it seemed as if the days would never come to + an end." + </p> + <p> + "It was not so bad as that, father," Nellie said. "First of all, you had + your pipe to smoke. Then, once a week you used to go over with the + market-cart to Gloucester and to look at the shipping there, and talk with + the masters and sailors. Then, on a Sunday, of course, there was church. + So there were only five days each week to get through; and you know you + took a good deal of interest in the horses and cows and pigs." + </p> + <p> + "I tried to take an interest in them, Nellie; but it was very hard work." + </p> + <p> + "Well, father, that is just what you were saying you wanted, and I am sure + you spent hours every day walking about with the children, or telling them + stories." + </p> + <p> + "Well, perhaps, when I think of it, it was not so very bad after all," + Captain Dave admitted. "At any rate, I am heartily glad I am back here + again. We will open the shop to-morrow morning, John." + </p> + <p> + "That we will, master. We sha'n't do much trade at present. Still, a few + coasters have come in, and I hope that every day things will get better. + Besides, all the vessels that have been lying in the Pool since June will + want painting up and getting into trim again before they sail out of the + river, so things may not be so slack after all. You will find everything + in order in the store. I have had little to do but to polish up brass work + and keep the metal from rusting. When do the apprentices come back again?" + </p> + <p> + "I shall write for them as soon as I find that there is something for them + to do. You are not thinking of running away as soon as we come back I + hope, Cyril? You said, when you last wrote, that you were fit for sea + again." + </p> + <p> + "I am not thinking of going for some little time, if you will keep me, + Captain Dave. There is no news of the Fleet fitting out at present, and + they will not want us on board till they are just ready to start. They say + that Albemarle is to command this time instead of the Duke, at which I am + right glad, for he has fought the Dutch at sea many times, and although + not bred up to the trade, he has shown that he can fight as steadily on + sea as on land. All say the Duke showed courage and kept a firm + countenance at Lowestoft, but there was certainly great slackness in the + pursuit, though this, 'tis said, was not so much his fault as that of + those who were over-careful of his safety. Still, as he is the heir to the + throne, it is but right that he should be kept out of the fighting." + </p> + <p> + "It is like to be stern work next time, Cyril, if what I hear be true. + Owing partly to all men's minds being occupied by the Plague, and partly + to the great sums wasted by the King in his pleasures, nothing whatever + has been done for the Fleet. Of course, the squadron at sea has taken + great numbers of prizes; but the rest of the Fleet is laid up, and no new + ships are being built, while they say that the Dutch are busy in all their + ship-yards, and will send out a much stronger fleet this spring than that + which fought us at Lowestoft. I suppose you have not heard of any of your + grand friends?" + </p> + <p> + "No. I should have written to Sydney Oliphant, but I knew not whether he + was at sea or at home, and, moreover, I read that most folks in the + country are afraid of letters from London, thinking that they might carry + contagion. Many noblemen have now returned to the West End, and when I + hear that the Earl has also come back with his family it will, of course, + be my duty to wait upon him, and on Prince Rupert also. But I hope the + Prince will not be back yet, for he will be wanting me to go to Court + again, and for this, in truth, I have no inclination, and, moreover, it + cannot be done without much expense for clothes, and I have no intention + to go into expenses on follies or gew-gaws, or to trench upon the store of + money that I had from you, Captain Dave." + </p> + <p> + They had just finished breakfast on the day before Christmas, when one of + the apprentices came up from the shop and said that one Master + Goldsworthy, a lawyer in the Temple, desired to speak to Sir Cyril + Shenstone. Cyril was about to go down when Captain Dave said,— + </p> + <p> + "Show the gentleman up, Susan. We will leave you here to him, Cyril." + </p> + <p> + "By no means," Cyril said. "I do not know him, and he can assuredly have + no private business with me that you may not hear." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Dowsett and her daughter, however, left the room. The lawyer, a + grave-looking gentleman of some fifty years of age, glanced at Cyril and + the Captain as he entered the room, and then advanced towards the former. + </p> + <p> + "My name is unknown to you, Sir Cyril," he said, "but it has been said + that a bearer of good news needs no introduction, and I come in that + capacity. I bring you, sir, a Christmas-box," and he took from a bag he + carried a bundle of some size, and a letter. "Before you open it, sir, I + will explain the character of its contents, which would take you some time + to decipher and understand, while I can explain them in a very few words. + I may tell you that I am the legal adviser of Mr. Ebenezer Harvey, of + Upmead Court, Norfolk. You are, I presume, familiar with the name?" + </p> + <p> + Cyril started. Upmead Court was the name of his father's place, but with + the name of its present owner he was not familiar. Doubtless, he might + sometimes have heard it from his father, but the latter, when he spoke of + the present possessor of the Court, generally did so as "that Roundhead + dog," or "that canting Puritan." + </p> + <p> + "The Court I know, sir," he said gravely, "as having once been my + father's, but I do not recall the name of its present owner, though it may + be that in my childhood my father mentioned it in my hearing." + </p> + <p> + "Nevertheless, sir, you know the gentleman himself, having met him, as he + tells me, frequently at the house of Mr. Wallace, who was minister of the + chapel at which he worshipped, and who came up to London to minister to + those sorely afflicted and needing comfort. Not only did you meet with Mr. + Harvey and his wife, but you rendered to them very material service." + </p> + <p> + "I was certainly unaware," Cyril said, "that Mr. Harvey was the possessor + of what had been my father's estate, but, had I known it, it would have + made no difference in my feeling towards him. I found him a kind and godly + gentleman whom, more than others there, was good enough to converse + frequently with me, and to whom I was pleased to be of service." + </p> + <p> + "The service was of a most important nature," the lawyer said, "being + nothing less than the saving of his life, and probably that of his wife. + He sent for me the next morning, and then drew out his will. By that will + he left to you the estates which he had purchased from your father." + </p> + <p> + Cyril gave a start of surprise, and would have spoken, but Master + Goldsworthy held up his hand, and said,— + </p> + <p> + "Please let me continue my story to the end. This act was not the + consequence of the service that you had rendered him. He had previously + consulted me on the subject, and stated his intentions to me. He had met + you at Mr. Wallace's, and at once recognised your name, and learnt from + Mr. Wallace that you were the son of Sir Aubrey Shenstone. He studied your + character, had an interview with Dr. Hodges, and learnt how fearlessly you + were devoting yourself to the work of aiding those stricken with the + Plague. With his own son he had reason for being profoundly dissatisfied. + The young man had thrown off his authority, had become a notorious + reprobate, and had, he believed, sunk down to become a companion of + thieves and highwaymen. He had come up to London solely to make a last + effort to save him from his evil courses and to give him a chance of + reformation by sending him out to New England. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Harvey is possessed of considerable property in addition to the + estates purchased of your father, for, previous to that purchase he had + been the owner of large tanneries at Norwich, which he has ever since + maintained, not so much for the sake of the income he derived from them as + because they afforded a livelihood to a large number of workmen. He had, + therefore, ample means to leave to his son, should the latter accept his + offer and reform his life, without the estates of Upmead. When he saw you, + he told me his conscience was moved. He had, of course, a legal right to + the estates, but he had purchased them for a sum not exceeding a fifth of + their value, and he considered that in the twenty years he had held them + he had drawn from them sums amply sufficient to repay him for the price he + had given for them, and had received a large interest on the money in + addition. He questioned, therefore, strongly whether he had any right + longer to retain them. + </p> + <p> + "When he consulted me on the subject, he alluded to the fact that, by the + laws of the Bible, persons who bought lands were bound to return the land + to its former possessors, at the end of seven times seven years. He had + already, then, made up his mind to leave that portion of his property to + you, when you rendered him that great service, and at the same time it + became, alas! but too evident to him that his son was hopelessly bad, and + that any money whatever left to him would assuredly be spent in evil + courses, and would do evil rather than good. Therefore, when I came in the + morning to him he said,— + </p> + <p> + "'My will must be made immediately. Not one penny is to go to my son. I + may be carried off to-morrow by the Plague, or my son may renew his + attempt with success. So I must will it away from him at once. For the + moment, therefore, make a short will bequeathing the estate of Upmead to + Sir Cyril Shenstone, all my other possessions to my wife for her lifetime, + and at her death also to Sir Cyril Shenstone. + </p> + <p> + "'I may alter this later on,' he said, 'but for the present I desire + chiefly to place them beyond my son's reach. Please draw up the document + at once, for no one can say what half an hour may bring forth to either of + us. Get the document in form by this evening, when some friends will be + here to witness it. Pray bring your two clerks also!' + </p> + <p> + "A few days later he called upon me again. + </p> + <p> + "'I have been making further inquiries about Sir Cyril Shenstone,' he + said, 'and have learnt much concerning him from a man who is in the + employment of the trader with whom he lives. What I have learnt more than + confirms me in my impression of him. He came over from France, three years + ago, a boy of scarce fourteen. He was clever at figures, and supported his + reprobate father for the last two years of his life by keeping the books + of small traders in the City. So much was he esteemed that, at his + father's death, Captain Dowsett offered him a home in his house. He + rewarded the kindness by making the discovery that the trader was being + foully robbed, and brought about the arrest of the thieves, which + incidentally led to the breaking-up of one of the worst gangs of robbers + in London. Later on he found that his employer's daughter was in + communication with a hanger-on of the Court, who told her that he was a + nobleman. The young fellow set a watch upon her, came upon her at the + moment she was about to elope with this villain, ran him through the + shoulder, and took her back to her home, and so far respected her secret + that her parents would never have known of it had she not, some time + afterwards, confessed it to them. That villain, Mr. Goldsworthy,' he said, + 'was my son! Just after that Sir Cyril obtained the good will of the Earl + of Wisbech, whose three daughters he saved from being burnt to death at a + fire in the Savoy. Thus, you see, this youth is in every way worthy of + good fortune, and can be trusted to administer the estate of his fathers + worthily and well. I wish you to draw out, at once, a deed conveying to + him these estates, and rehearsing that, having obtained them at a small + price, and having enjoyed them for a time long enough to return to me the + money I paid for them with ample interest thereon, I now return them to + him, confident that they will be in good hands, and that their revenues + will be worthily spent.' + </p> + <p> + "In this parcel is the deed in question, duly signed and witnessed, + together with the parchments, deeds, and titles of which he became + possessed at his purchase of the estate. I may say, Sir Cyril, that I have + never carried out a legal transfer with greater pleasure to myself, + considering, as I do, that the transaction is alike just and honourable on + his part and most creditable to yourself. He begged me to hand the deeds + to you myself. They were completed two months since, but he himself + suggested that I should bring them to you on Christmas Eve, when it is the + custom for many to give to their friends tokens of their regard and good + will. I congratulate you heartily, sir, and rejoice that, for once, merit + has met with a due reward." + </p> + <p> + "I do not know, sir," Cyril replied, "how I can express my feelings of + deep pleasure and gratitude at the wonderful tidings you have brought me. + I had set it before me as the great object of my life, that, some day, + should I live to be an old man, I might be enabled to repurchase the + estate of my father's. I knew how improbable it was that I should ever be + able to do so, and I can scarce credit that what seemed presumptuous even + as a hope should have thus been so strangely and unexpectedly realised. I + certainly do not feel that it is in any way due to what you are good + enough to call my merits, for in all these matters that you have spoken of + there has been nothing out of the way, or, so far as I can see, in any way + praiseworthy, in what I have done. It would seem, indeed, that in all + these matters, and in the saving of my life from the Plague, things have + arranged themselves so as to fall out for my benefit." + </p> + <p> + "That is what Mr. Harvey feels very strongly, Sir Cyril. He has told me, + over and over again, that it seemed to him that the finger of God was + specially manifest in thus bringing you together, and in placing you in a + position to save his life. And now I will take my leave. I may say that in + all legal matters connected with the estate I have acted for Mr. Harvey, + and should be naturally glad if you will continue to entrust such matters + to me. I have some special facilities in the matter, as Mr. Popham, a + lawyer of Norwich, is married to my daughter, and we therefore act + together in all business connected with the estate, he performing what may + be called the local business, while I am advised by him as to matters + requiring attention here in London." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be glad indeed if you and Mr. Popham will continue to act in the + same capacity for me," Cyril said warmly. "I am, as you see, very young, + and know nothing of the management of an estate, and shall be grateful if + you will, in all matters, act for me until I am of an age to assume the + duties of the owner of Upmead." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you, Sir Cyril, and we shall, I trust, afford you satisfaction. + The deed, you will observe, is dated the 29th of September, the day on + which it was signed, though there have been other matters to settle. The + tenants have already been notified that from that date they are to regard + you as their landlord. Now that you authorise us to act for you, my + son-in-law will at once proceed to collect the rents for this quarter. I + may say that, roughly, they amount to seventeen hundred pounds a year, and + as it may be a convenience to you to draw at once, if it so please you I + will place, on Monday next, the sum of four hundred pounds to your credit + with Messrs. Murchison and Graham, who are my bankers, or with any other + firm you may prefer." + </p> + <p> + "With the bankers you name, by all means," Cyril said; "and I thank you + heartily for so doing, for as I shall shortly rejoin the Fleet, a portion, + at least, of the money will be very useful to me." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Goldsworthy took his hat. + </p> + <p> + "There is one thing further I have forgotten. Mr. Harvey requested me to + say that he wished for no thanks in this matter. He regards it as an act + of rightful restitution, and, although you will doubtless write to him, he + would be pleased if you will abstain altogether from treating it as a + gift." + </p> + <p> + "I will try to obey his wishes," Cyril said, "but it does not seem to me + that it will be possible for me to abstain from any expression of + gratitude for his noble act." + </p> + <p> + Cyril accompanied the lawyer to the door, and then returned upstairs. + </p> + <p> + "Now I can speak," Captain Dowsett said. "I have had hard work to keep a + stopper on my tongue all this time, for I have been well-nigh bursting to + congratulate you. I wish you joy, my lad," and he wrung Cyril's hand + heartily, "and a pleasant voyage through life. I am as glad, ay, and a + deal more glad than if such a fortune had come in my way, for it would + have been of little use to me, seeing I have all that the heart of man + could desire." + </p> + <p> + He ran to the door and shouted loudly for his wife and daughter. + </p> + <p> + "I have news for you both," he said, as they came in. "What do you think? + Cyril, like the King, has come to his own again, and he is now Sir Cyril + Shenstone, the owner of the estate of Upmead." + </p> + <p> + Both broke into exclamations of surprise and pleasure. + </p> + <p> + "How has the wonder come about?" Nellie asked, after the first + congratulations were over. "What good fairy has brought this round?" + </p> + <p> + "The good fairy was the Mr. Harvey whose name Cyril once mentioned + casually, and whose life, as it now appears, he saved, though he has said + nothing to us about it. That gentleman was, most strangely, the man who + bought the estate from his father. He, it seems, is a wealthy man, and his + conscience has for some time been pricked with the thought that he had + benefited too largely from the necessities of Sir Aubrey, and that, having + received back from the rents all the money he paid, and goodly interest + thereon, he ought to restore the estate to its former owner. Possibly he + might never have acted on this thought, but he considered the circumstance + that he had so strangely met Cyril here at the time of the Plague, and + still more strangely that Cyril had saved his life, was a matter of more + than chance, and was a direct and manifest interposition of Providence; + and he has therefore made restitution, and that parcel on the table + contains a deed of gift to Cyril of all his father's estates." + </p> + <p> + "He has done quite rightly," Mrs. Dowsett said warmly, "though, indeed, it + is not everyone who would see matters in that light. If men always acted + in that spirit it would be a better world." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, wife. There are not many men who, having got the best of a + bargain, voluntarily resign the profits they have made. It is pleasant to + come across one who so acts, more especially when one's best friend is the + gainer. Ah! Nellie, what a pity some good fairy did not tell you of what + was coming! What a chance you have lost, girl! See what might have + happened if you had set your cap at Cyril!" + </p> + <p> + "Indeed, it is terrible to think of," Nellie laughed. "It was hard on me + that he was not five or six years older. Then I might have done it, even + if my good fairy had not whispered in my ear about this fortune. Never + mind. I shall console myself by looking forward to dance at his wedding—that + is, if he will send me an invitation." + </p> + <p> + "Like as not you will be getting past your dancing days by the time that + comes off, Nellie. I hope that, years before then, I shall have danced at + your wedding—that is to say," he said, imitating her, "if you will + send me an invitation." + </p> + <p> + "What are you going to do next, Cyril?" Captain Dave asked, when the laugh + had subsided. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, I am sure," Cyril replied. "I have not really woke up to it + all yet. It will be some time before I realise that I am not a penniless + young baronet, and that I can spend a pound without looking at it a dozen + times. I shall have to get accustomed to the thought before I can make any + plans. I suppose that one of the first things to do will be to go down to + Oxford to see Prince Rupert—who, I suppose, is with the Court, + though this I can doubtless learn at the offices of the Admiralty—and + to tell him that I am ready to rejoin his ship as soon as he puts to sea + again. Then I shall find out where Sydney Oliphant is, and how his family + have fared in the Plague. I would fain find out what has become of the + Partons, to whom, and especially to Lady Parton, I owe much. I suppose, + too, I shall have to go down to Norfolk, but that I shall put off as long + as I can, for it will be strange and very unpleasant at first to go down + as master to a place I have never seen. I shall have to get you to come + down with me, Captain Dave, to keep me in countenance." + </p> + <p> + "Not I, my lad. You will want a better introducer. I expect that the + lawyer who was here will give you a letter to his son-in-law, who will, of + course, place himself at your service, establishing you in your house and + taking you round to your tenants." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes," Nellie said, clapping her hands. "And there will be fine + doings, and bonfires, and arches, and all sorts of festivities. I do begin + to feel how much I have missed the want of that good fairy." + </p> + <p> + "It will be all very disagreeable," Cyril said seriously; whereat the + others laughed. + </p> + <p> + Cyril then went downstairs with Captain Dave, and told John Wilkes of the + good fortune that had befallen him, at which he was as much delighted as + the others had been. + </p> + <p> + Ten days later Cyril rode to Oxford, and found that Prince Rupert was at + present there. The Prince received him with much warmth. + </p> + <p> + "I have wondered many times what had become of you, Sir Cyril," he said. + "From the hour when I saw you leave us in the <i>Fan Fan</i> I have lost + sight of you altogether. I have not been in London since, for the Plague + had set in badly before the ships were laid up, and as I had naught + particular to do there I kept away from it. Albemarle has stayed through + it, and he and Mr. Pepys were able to do all there was to do, but I have + thought of you often and wondered how you fared, and hoped to see you + here, seeing that there was, as it seemed to me, nothing to keep you in + London after your wounds had healed. I have spoken often to the King of + the brave deed by which you saved us all, and he declared that, had it not + been that you were already a baronet, he would knight you as soon as you + appeared, as many of the captains and others have already received that + honour; and he agreed with me that none deserved it better than yourself. + Now, what has become of you all this time?" + </p> + <p> + Cyril related how he had stayed in London, had had the Plague, and had + recovered from it. + </p> + <p> + "I must see about getting you a commission at once in the Navy," the + Prince said, "though I fear you will have to wait until we fit out again. + There will be no difficulty then, for of course there were many officers + killed in the action." + </p> + <p> + Cyril expressed his thanks, adding,— + </p> + <p> + "There is no further occasion for me to take a commission, Prince, for, + strangely enough, the owner of my father's property has just made it over + to me. He is a good man, and, considering that he has already reaped large + benefits by his purchase, and has been repaid his money with good + interest, his conscience will no longer suffer him to retain it." + </p> + <p> + "Then he is a Prince of Roundheads," the Prince said, "and I most heartily + congratulate you; and I believe that the King will be as pleased as I am. + He said but the other day, when I was speaking to him of you, that it + grieved him sorely that he was powerless to do anything for so many that + had suffered in his cause, and that, after the bravery you had shown, he + was determined to do something, and would insist with his ministers that + some office should be found for you,—though it is not an easy + matter, when each of them has special friends of his own among whom to + divide any good things that fall vacant. He holds a Court this evening, + and I will take you with me." + </p> + <p> + The King was most gracious when the Prince again presented Cyril to him + and told him of the good fortune that had befallen him. + </p> + <p> + "By my faith, Sir Cyril, you were born under a lucky star. First of all + you saved my Lord of Wisbech's daughters; then, as Prince Rupert tells me, + you saved him and all on board his ship from being burned; and now a + miracle has well-nigh happened in your favour. I see, too, that you have + the use of your arm, which the Prince doubted would ever altogether + recover." + </p> + <p> + "More still, Your Majesty," the Prince said. "He had the Plague in August + and recovered from it." + </p> + <p> + "I shall have to keep you about me, Sir Cyril," the King said, "as a sort + of amulet to guard me against ill luck." + </p> + <p> + "I am going to take him to sea first," Prince Rupert broke in, seeing that + Cyril was about to disclaim the idea of coming to Court. "I may want him + to save my ship again, and I suppose he will be going down to visit his + estate till I want him. You have never seen it, have you, Sir Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; at least not to have any remembrance of it. I naturally long to + see Upmead, of which I have heard much from my father. I should have gone + down at once, but I thought it my duty to come hither and report myself to + you as being ready to sail again as soon as you put to sea." + </p> + <p> + "Duty first and pleasure afterwards," the King said. "I am afraid that is + a little beyond me—eh, Rupert?" + </p> + <p> + "Very much so, I should say, Cousin Charles," the Prince replied, with a + smile. "However, I have no doubt Sir Cyril will not grudge us a few days + before he leaves. There are several of the gentlemen who were his comrades + on the <i>Henrietta</i> here, and they will be glad to renew their + acquaintance with him, knowing, as they all do, that they owe their lives + to him." + </p> + <p> + As Cyril was walking down the High Street, he saw a student coming along + whose face seemed familiar to him. He looked hard at him. + </p> + <p> + "Surely you must be Harry Parton?" he said. + </p> + <p> + "That is my name, sir; though I cannot recall where I have met you. Yet + there seems something familiar in your face, and still more in your + voice." + </p> + <p> + "I am Cyril Shenstone." + </p> + <p> + "Why, what has become of you, Cyril?" Harry said, shaking him warmly by + the hand. "I searched for you a year ago when I was in London, but could + obtain no tidings whatever of you, save that you had lost your father. We + are alike there, for my father died a few months after yours did." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry indeed, Harry. I had not heard of it before. I was not, + indeed, in the way of doing so, as I was working in the City and knew + nothing of what was passing elsewhere." + </p> + <p> + "This is my college, Cyril. Come up to my room; there we can talk + comfortably, and we have much to tell each other. How is it that you have + never been near us?" he went on, when they were seated in front of a + blazing fire in his room. "I know that there was some quarrel between our + fathers, but when we heard of Sir Aubrey's death, both my father and + mother thought that you would come to see us or would have written—for + indeed it was not until after my father's death that we paid a visit to + London. It was then my mother asked me to search for you; and after great + difficulty I found the quarter in which you had lived, and then from the + parish register learned where your father had died. Going there, I learned + that you had left the lodging directly after his death, but more than that + the people could not tell me." + </p> + <p> + "I should have come to see your mother and Sir John, Harry. I know how + deeply I am indebted to them, and as long as I live shall never cease to + be grateful for Lady Parton's kindness to me. But I had received so much + kindness that I shrank from seeming to wish to presume upon it further. I + had, of course, to work for my living, and I wanted, before I recalled + myself to them, to be able to say that I had not come as a beggar for + further favours, but that I was making my way independently. Sooner or + later I should have come, for your father once promised me that if I + followed out what you remember was my plan, of entering foreign service, + he would give me letters of introduction that would be useful to me. Had I + that favour still to ask I could do it without shame. But more than that I + would not have asked, even had I wanted bread, which, thank God! was never + the case." + </p> + <p> + "I can understand your feeling, Cyril, but my mother assuredly would + always have been pleased to see you. You know you were a favourite of + hers." + </p> + <p> + "Had you been near town, Harry, I should certainly have come to see her + and you as soon as I had fairly established myself, but I heard from my + father that you had all gone away into the country soon after the + unfortunate quarrel he had with Sir John, and therefore delayed taking any + step for the time, and indeed did not know in what part of the country + your father's estates lay. I know that he recovered them as soon as he + returned." + </p> + <p> + "They had never been forfeited," Harry said. "My father retired from the + struggle after Naseby, and as he had influential friends among the + Puritans, there was no forfeiture of his estates, and we were therefore + able, as you know, to live in comfort at Dunkirk, his steward sending over + such monies as were required. And now about yourself. Your brains must + have served you rarely somehow, for you are dressed in the latest fashion, + and indeed I took you for a Court gallant when you accosted me." + </p> + <p> + "I have been truly fortunate, Harry, and indeed everything has turned out + as if specially designed for my good, and, in a most strange and + unlooked-for manner, I have just come into my father's estates again." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad indeed to hear it, Cyril. Tell me how it has all come about." + </p> + <p> + Cyril told the story of his life since he had come to London. + </p> + <p> + "You have, indeed, had strange adventures, Cyril, and, though you say + little about it, you must have done something special to have gained + Prince Rupert's patronage and introduction to Court; but I shall worm all + that out of you some day, or get it from other lips. What a contrast your + life has been to mine! Here have you been earning your living bravely, + fighting in the great battle against the Dutch, going through that + terrible Plague, and winning your way back to fortune, while I have been + living the life of a school-boy. Our estates lie in Shropshire, and as + soon as we went down there my father placed me at a school at Shrewsbury. + There I remained till his death, and then, as was his special wish, + entered here. I have still a year of my course to complete. I only came up + into residence last week. When the summer comes I hope that you will come + down to Ardleigh and stay with us; it will give my mother great pleasure + to see you again, for I never see her but she speaks of you, and wonders + what has become of you, and if you are still alive." + </p> + <p> + "Assuredly I will come, and that with the greatest pleasure," Cyril said, + "providing only that I am not then at sea, which is, I fear, likely, as I + rejoin the ship as soon as Prince Rupert takes the sea against the Dutch. + However, directly we return I will write to you." + </p> + <p> + "If you do so, let it be to Ardleigh, near Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Should + I be here when your letter arrives, my mother will forward it to me." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX — TAKING POSSESSION + </h2> + <p> + Cyril stayed a week at Oxford. He greatly enjoyed the visit; and not only + was he most warmly received by his former comrades on board the <i>Henrietta</i>, + but Prince Rupert spoke so strongly in his favour to other gentlemen to + whom he introduced him that he no longer felt a stranger at Court. Much of + his spare time he spent with Harry Parton, and in his rooms saw something + of college life, which seemed to him a very pleasant and merry one. He had + ascertained, as soon as he arrived, that the Earl of Wisbech and his + family were down at his estate, near the place from which he took his + title, and had at once written to Sydney, from whom he received an answer + on the last day of his stay at Oxford. It contained a warm invitation for + him to come down to Wisbech. + </p> + <p> + "You say you will be going to Norwich to take possession of your estate. + If you ride direct from Oxford, our place will be but little out of your + way, therefore we shall take no excuse for your not coming to see us, and + shall look for you within a week or so from the date of this. We were all + delighted to get your missive, for although what you say about infection + carried by letters is true enough, and, indeed there was no post out of + London for months, we had begun to fear that the worst must have befallen + you when no letter arrived from you in December. Still, we thought that + you might not know where we were, and so hoped that you might be waiting + until you could find that out. My father bids me say that he will take no + refusal. Since my return he more than ever regards you as being the good + genius of the family, and it is certainly passing strange that, after + saving my sisters' lives from fire you should, though in so different a + way, have saved me from a similar death. So set off as soon as you get + this—that is, if you can tear yourself away from the gaieties of + Oxford." + </p> + <p> + Cyril had, indeed, been specially waiting for Sydney's answer, having told + him that he should remain at Oxford until he received it, and on the + following morning he packed his valise and rode for Wisbech, where he + arrived three days' later. His welcome at the Earl's was a most cordial + one. He spent a week there, at the end of which time Sydney, at his + earnest request, started for Norwich with him. The Earl had insisted on + Cyril's accepting a splendid horse, and behind him, on his other animal, + rode a young fellow, the son of a small tenant on the Earl's estate, whom + he had engaged as a servant. He had written, three days before, to Mr. + Popham, telling him that he would shortly arrive, and begging him to order + the two old servants of his father, whom he had, at his request, engaged + to take care of the house to get two or three chambers in readiness for + him, which could doubtless be easily done, as he had learnt from the deed + that the furniture and all contents of the house had been included in the + gift. After putting up at the inn, he went to the lawyer's. Mr. Popham, he + found, had had a room prepared in readiness for him at his house, but + Cyril, while thanking him for so doing, said that, as Lord Oliphant was + with him, he would stay at the inn for the night. + </p> + <p> + The next morning they rode over with Mr. Popham to Upmead, which was six + miles distant from the town. + </p> + <p> + "That is the house," the lawyer said, as a fine old mansion came in sight. + "There are larger residences in the county, but few more handsome. Indeed, + it is almost too large for the estate, but, as perhaps you know, that was + at one time a good deal larger than it is at present, for it was + diminished by one of your ancestors in the days of Elizabeth." + </p> + <p> + At the gate where they turned into the Park an arch of evergreens had been + erected. + </p> + <p> + "You don't mean to say you let them know that I was coming home?" Cyril + said, in a tone of such alarm that Lord Oliphant laughed and Mr. Popham + said apologetically,— + </p> + <p> + "I certainly wrote to the tenants, sir, when I received your letter, and + sent off a message saying that you would be here this morning. Most of + them or their fathers were here in the old time, for Mr. Harvey made no + changes, and I am sure they would have been very disappointed if they had + not had notice that Sir Aubrey's son was coming home." + </p> + <p> + "Of course it was quite right for you to do so, Mr. Popham, but you see I + am quite unaccustomed to such things, and would personally have been much + more pleased to have come home quietly. Still, as you say, it is only + right that the tenants should have been informed, and at any rate it will + be a satisfaction to get it all over at once." + </p> + <p> + There were indeed quite a large number of men and women assembled in front + of the house—all the tenants, with their wives and families, having + gathered to greet their young landlord—and loud bursts of cheering + arose as he rode up, Sydney and Mr. Popham reining back their horses a + little to allow him to precede them. Cyril took off his hat, and bowed + repeatedly in reply to the acclamations that greeted him. The tenants + crowded round, many of the older men pressing forward to shake him by the + hand. + </p> + <p> + "Welcome back to your own again, Sir Cyril!" + </p> + <p> + "I fought under your father, sir, and a good landlord he was to us all." + </p> + <p> + Such were the exclamations that rose round him until he reached the door + of the mansion, and, dismounting, took his place at the top of the steps. + Then he took off his hat again, and when there was silence he said,— + </p> + <p> + "I thank you heartily, one and all, good friends, for the welcome that you + have given me. Glad indeed I am to come down to my father's home, and to + be so greeted by those who knew him, and especially by those who followed + him in the field in the evil days which have, we may hope, passed away for + ever. You all know, perhaps, that I owe my return here as master to the + noble generosity of Mr. Harvey, your late landlord, who restored me the + estates, not being bound in any way to do so, but solely because he + considered that he had already been repaid the money he gave for them. + This may be true, but, nevertheless, there is not one man in a hundred + thousand who would so despoil himself of the benefits of a bargain + lawfully made, and I beg you therefore to give three cheers, as hearty as + those with which you greeted me, for Mr. Harvey." + </p> + <p> + Three cheers, as long and loud as those that had before risen, responded + to the appeal. + </p> + <p> + "Such a man," Cyril went on, when they subsided, "must have been a just + and good landlord to you all, and I shall do my best to give you no cause + for regret at the change that has come about." + </p> + <p> + He paused for a moment to speak to Mr. Popham, who stood beside him, and + then went on,— + </p> + <p> + "I did not know whether I could ask you to drink to my health, but I learn + from Mr. Popham that the cellars have been left well filled; therefore, my + first orders on coming to the house of my fathers will be that a cask of + wine shall be speedily broached, and that you shall be enabled to drink my + health. While that is being done, Mr. Popham will introduce you to me one + by one." + </p> + <p> + Another loud cheer arose, and then the tenants came forward with their + wives and families. + </p> + <p> + Cyril shook hands with them all, and said a few words to each. The elder + men had all ridden by his father in battle, and most of the younger ones + said, as he shook hands with them,— + </p> + <p> + "My father fell, under Sir Aubrey, at Naseby," or "at Worcester," or in + other battles. + </p> + <p> + By the time all had been introduced, a great cask of wine had been + broached, and after the tenants had drunk to his health, and he had, in + turn, pledged them, Cyril entered the house with Sydney and Mr. Popham, + and proceeded to examine it under the guidance of the old man who had been + his father's butler, and whose wife had also been a servant in Sir + Aubrey's time. + </p> + <p> + "Everything is just as it was then, Sir Cyril. A few fresh articles of + furniture have been added, but Mr. Harvey would have no general change + made. The family pictures hang just where they did, and your father + himself would scarce notice the changes." + </p> + <p> + "It is indeed a fine old mansion, Cyril," Lord Oliphant said, when they + had made a tour of the house; "and now that I see it and its furniture I + am even more inclined than before to admire the man who could voluntarily + resign them. I shall have to modify my ideas of the Puritans. They have + shown themselves ready to leave the country and cross the ocean to + America, and begin life anew for conscience' sake—that is to say, to + escape persecution—and they fought very doughtily, and we must own, + very successfully, for the same reason, but this is the first time I have + ever heard of one of them relinquishing a fine estate for conscience' + sake." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Harvey is indeed a most worthy gentleman," Mr. Popham said, "and has + the esteem and respect of all, even of those who are of wholly different + politics. Still, it may be that although he would in any case, I believe, + have left this property to Sir Cyril, he might not have handed it over to + him in his lifetime, had not he received so great a service at his hands." + </p> + <p> + "Why, what is this, Cyril?" Sydney said, turning upon him. "You have told + us nothing whatever of any services rendered. I never saw such a fellow as + you are for helping other people." + </p> + <p> + "There was nothing worth speaking of," Cyril said, much vexed. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popham smiled. + </p> + <p> + "Most people would think it was a very great service, Lord Oliphant. + However, I may not tell you what it was, although I have heard all the + details from my father-in-law, Mr. Goldsworthy. They were told in + confidence, and in order to enlighten me as to the relations between Mr. + Harvey and Sir Cyril, and as they relate to painful family matters I am + bound to preserve an absolute silence." + </p> + <p> + "I will be content to wait, Cyril, till I get you to myself. It is a + peculiarity of Sir Cyril Shenstone, Mr. Popham, that he goes through life + doing all sorts of services for all sorts of people. You may not know that + he saved the lives of my three sisters in a fire at our mansion in the + Savoy; he also performed the trifling service of saving Prince Rupert's + ship and the lives of all on board, among whom was myself, from a Dutch + fire-ship, in the battle of Lowestoft. These are insignificant affairs, + that he would not think it worth while to allude to, even if you knew him + for twenty years." + </p> + <p> + "You do not know Lord Oliphant, Mr. Popham," Cyril laughed, "or you would + be aware that his custom is to make mountains out of molehills. But let us + sit down to dinner. I suppose it is your forethought, Mr. Popham, that I + have to thank for having warned them to make this provision? I had thought + that we should be lucky if the resources of the establishment sufficed to + furnish us with a meal of bread and cheese." + </p> + <p> + "I sent on a few things with my messenger yesterday evening, Sir Cyril, + but for the hare and those wild ducks methinks you have to thank your + tenants, who doubtless guessed that an addition to the larder would be + welcome. I have no doubt that, good landlord as Mr. Harvey was, they are + really delighted to have you among them again. As you know, these eastern + counties were the stronghold of Puritanism, and that feeling is still held + by the majority. It is only among the tenants of many gentlemen who, like + your father, were devoted Royalists, that there is any very strong feeling + the other way. As you heard from their lips, most of your older tenants + fought under Sir Aubrey, while the fathers of the younger ones fell under + his banner. Consequently, it was galling to them that one of altogether + opposite politics should be their landlord, and although in every other + respect they had reason to like him, he was, as it were, a symbol of their + defeat, and I suppose they viewed him a good deal as the Saxons of old + times regarded their Norman lords." + </p> + <p> + "I can quite understand that, Mr. Popham." + </p> + <p> + "Another feeling has worked in your favour, Sir Cyril," the lawyer went + on. "It may perhaps be a relic of feudalism, but there can be no doubt + that there exists, in the minds of English country folks, a feeling of + respect and of something like affection for their landlords when men of + old family, and that feeling is never transferred to new men who may take + their place. Mr. Harvey was, in their eyes, a new man—a wealthy one, + no doubt, but owing his wealth to his own exertions—and he would + never have excited among them the same feeling as they gave to the family + who had, for several hundred years, been owners of the soil." + </p> + <p> + Cyril remained for a fortnight at Upmead, calling on all the tenants, and + interesting himself in them and their families. The day after his arrival + he rode into Norwich, and paid a visit to Mr. Harvey. He had, in + compliance to his wishes, written but a short letter of acknowledgment of + the restitution of the estate, but he now expressed the deep feeling of + gratitude that he entertained. + </p> + <p> + "I have only done what is right," Mr. Harvey said quietly, "and would + rather not be thanked for it; but your feelings are natural, and I have + therefore not checked your words. It was assuredly God's doing in so + strangely bringing us together, and making you an instrument in saving our + lives, and so awakening an uneasy conscience into activity. I have had but + small pleasure from Upmead. I have a house here which is more than + sufficient for all my wants, and I have, I hope, the respect of my + townsfellows, and the affection of my workmen. At Upmead I was always + uncomfortable. Such of the county gentlemen who retained their estates + looked askance at me. The tenants, I knew, though they doffed their hats + as I passed them, regarded me as a usurper. I had no taste for the sports + and pleasures of country life, being born and bred a townsman. The + ill-doing of my son cast a gloom over my life of late. I have lived + chiefly here with the society of friends of my own religious and political + feeling. Therefore, I have made no sacrifice in resigning my tenancy of + Upmead, and I pray you say no further word of your gratitude. I have + heard, from one who was there yesterday, how generously you spoke of me to + your tenants, and I thank you for so doing, for it is pleasant for me to + stand well in the thoughts of those whose welfare I have had at heart." + </p> + <p> + "I trust that Mrs. Harvey is in good health?" Cyril said. + </p> + <p> + "She is far from well, Cyril. The events of that night in London have told + heavily upon her, as is not wonderful, for she has suffered much sorrow + for years, and this last blow has broken her sorely. She mourns, as David + mourned over the death of Absalom, over the wickedness of her son, but she + is quite as one with me in the measures that I have taken concerning him, + save that, at her earnest prayer, I have made a provision for him which + will keep him from absolute want, and will leave him no excuse to urge + that he was driven by poverty into crime. Mr. Goldsworthy has not yet + discovered means of communicating with him, but when he does so he will + notify him that he has my instructions to pay to him fifteen pounds on the + first of every month, and that the offer of assistance to pay his passage + to America is still open to him, and that on arriving there he will + receive for three years the same allowance as here. Then if a favourable + report of his conduct is forthcoming from the magistrates and deacons of + the town where he takes up his residence, a correspondent of Mr. + Goldsworthy's will be authorised to expend four thousand pounds on the + purchase of an estate for him, and to hand to him another thousand for the + due working and maintenance of the same. For these purposes I have already + made provisions in my will, with proviso that if, at the end of five years + after my death, no news of him shall be obtained, the money set aside for + these purposes shall revert to the main provisions of the will. It may be + that he died of the Plague. It may be that he has fallen, or will fall, a + victim to his own evil courses and evil passions. But I am convinced that, + should he be alive, Mr. Goldsworthy will be able to obtain tidings of him + long before the five years have expired. And now," he said, abruptly + changing the subject, "what are you thinking of doing, Sir Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "In the first place, sir, I am going to sea again with the Fleet very + shortly. I entered as a Volunteer for the war, and could not well, even if + I wished it, draw back." + </p> + <p> + "They are a stiff-necked people," Mr. Harvey said. "That the Sovereigns of + Europe should have viewed with displeasure the overthrow of the monarchy + here was natural enough; but in Holland, if anywhere, we might have looked + for sympathy, seeing that as they had battled for freedom of conscience, + so had we done here; and yet they were our worst enemies, and again and + again had Blake to sail forth to chastise them. They say that Monk is to + command this time?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe so, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Monk is the bruised reed that pierced our hand, but he is a good fighter. + And after the war is over, Sir Cyril, you will not, I trust, waste your + life in the Court of the profligate King?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not," Cyril said earnestly. "As soon as the war is over I shall + return to Upmead and take up my residence there. I have lived too hard a + life to care for the gaieties of Court, still less of a Court like that of + King Charles. I shall travel for a while in Europe if there is a genuine + peace. I have lost the opportunity of completing my education, and am too + old now to go to either of the Universities. Not too old perhaps; but I + have seen too much of the hard side of life to care to pass three years + among those who, no older than myself, are still as boys in their + feelings. The next best thing, therefore, as it seems to me, would be to + travel, and perhaps to spend a year or two in one of the great + Universities abroad." + </p> + <p> + "The matter is worth thinking over," Mr. Harvey said. "You are assuredly + young yet to settle down alone at Upmead, and will reap much advantage + from speaking French which is everywhere current, and may greatly aid you + in making your travels useful to you. I have no fear of your falling into + Popish error, Sir Cyril; but if my wishes have any weight with you I would + pray you to choose the schools of Leyden or Haarlem, should you enter a + foreign University, for they turn out learned men and good divines." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly your wishes have weight with me, Mr. Harvey, and should events + so turn out that I can enter one of the foreign Universities, it shall be + one of those you name—that is, should we, after this war is ended, + come into peaceful relations with the Dutch." + </p> + <p> + Before leaving the Earl's, Cyril had promised faithfully that he would + return thither with Sydney, and accordingly, at the end of the fortnight, + he rode back with him there, and, three weeks later, journeyed up to + London with the Earl and his family. + </p> + <p> + It was the middle of March when they reached London. The Court had come up + a day or two before, and the Fleet was, as Cyril learnt, being fitted out + in great haste. The French had now, after hesitating all through the + winter, declared war against us, and it was certain that we should have + their fleet as well as that of the Dutch to cope with. Calling upon Prince + Rupert on the day he arrived, Cyril learnt that the Fleet would assuredly + put to sea in a month's time. + </p> + <p> + "Would you rather join at once, or wait until I go on board?" the Prince + asked. + </p> + <p> + "I would rather join at once, sir. I have no business to do in London, and + it would be of no use for me to take an apartment when I am to leave so + soon; therefore, if I can be of any use, I would gladly join at once." + </p> + <p> + "You would be of no use on board," the Prince said, "but assuredly you + could be of use in carrying messages, and letting me know frequently, from + your own report, how matters are going on. I heard yesterday that the <i>Fan + Fan</i> is now fitted out. You shall take the command of her. I will give + you a letter to the boatswain, who is at present in charge, saying that I + have placed her wholly under your orders. You will, of course, live on + board. You will be chiefly at Chatham and Sheerness. If you call early + to-morrow I will have a letter prepared for you, addressed to all captains + holding commands in the White Squadron, bidding them to acquaint you, + whensoever you go on board, with all particulars of how matters have been + pushed forward, and to give you a list of all things lacking. Then, twice + a week you will sail up to town, and report to me, or, should there be any + special news at other times, send it to me by a mounted messenger. Mr. + Pepys, the secretary, is a diligent and hard-working man, but he cannot + see to everything, and Albemarle so pushes him that I think the White + Squadron does not get a fair share of attention; but if I can go to him + with your reports in hand, I may succeed in getting what is necessary + done." + </p> + <p> + Bidding farewell to the Earl and his family, and thanking him for his + kindness, Cyril stopped that night at Captain Dave's, and told him of all + that had happened since they met. The next morning he went early to Prince + Rupert's, received the two letters, and rode down to Chatham. Then, + sending the horses back by his servant, who was to take them to the Earl's + stable, where they would be cared for until his return, Cyril went on + board the <i>Fan Fan</i>. For the next month he was occupied early and + late with his duties. The cabin was small, but very comfortable. The crew + was a strong one, for the yacht rowed twelve oars, with which she could + make good progress even without her sails. He was waited on by his + servant, who returned as soon as he had left the horses in the Earl's + stables; his cooking was done for him in the yacht's galley. On occasions, + as the tide suited, he either sailed up to London in the afternoon, gave + his report to the Prince late in the evening, and was back at Sheerness by + daybreak, or he sailed up at night, saw the Prince as soon as he rose, and + returned at once. + </p> + <p> + The Prince highly commended his diligence, and told him that his reports + were of great use to him, as, with them in his hand, he could not be put + off at the Admiralty with vague assurances. Every day one or more ships + went out to join the Fleet that was gathering in the Downs, and on April + 20th Cyril sailed in the <i>Fan Fan</i>, in company with the last vessel + of the White Squadron, and there again took up his quarters on board the + <i>Henrietta</i>, the <i>Fan Fan</i> being anchored hard by in charge of + the boatswain. + </p> + <p> + On the 23rd, the Prince, with the Duke of Albemarle, and a great company + of noblemen and gentlemen, arrived at Deal, and came on board the Fleet, + which, on May 1st, weighed anchor. + </p> + <p> + Lord Oliphant was among the volunteers who came down with the Prince, and, + as many of the other gentlemen had also been on board during the first + voyage, Cyril felt that he was among friends, and had none of the feeling + of strangeness and isolation he had before experienced. + </p> + <p> + The party was indeed a merry one. For upwards of a year the fear of the + Plague had weighed on all England. At the time it increased so terribly in + London, that all thought it would, like the Black Death, spread over + England, and that, once again, half the population of the country might be + swept away. Great as the mortality had been, it had been confined almost + entirely to London and some of the great towns, and now that it had died + away even in these, there was great relief in men's minds, and all felt + that they had personally escaped from a terrible and imminent danger. That + they were about to face peril even greater than that from which they had + escaped did not weigh on the spirits of the gentlemen on board Prince + Rupert's ship. To be killed fighting for their country was an honourable + death that none feared, while there had been, in the minds of even the + bravest, a horror of death by the Plague, with all its ghastly + accompaniments. Sailing out to sea to the Downs, then, they felt that the + past year's events lay behind them as an evil dream, and laughed and + jested and sang with light-hearted mirth. + </p> + <p> + As yet, the Dutch had not put out from port, and for three weeks the Fleet + cruised off their coast. Then, finding that the enemy could not be tempted + to come out, they sailed back to the Downs. The day after they arrived + there, a messenger came down from London with orders to Prince Rupert to + sail at once with the White Squadron to engage the French Fleet, which was + reported to be on the point of putting to sea. The Prince had very little + belief that the French really intended to fight. Hitherto, although they + had been liberal in their promises to the Dutch, they had done nothing + whatever to aid them, and the general opinion was that France rejoiced at + seeing her rivals damage each other, but had no idea of risking her ships + or men in the struggle. + </p> + <p> + "I believe, gentlemen," Prince Rupert said to his officers, "that this is + but a ruse on the part of Louis to aid his Dutch allies by getting part of + our fleet out of the way. Still, I have nothing to do but to obey orders, + though I fear it is but a fool's errand on which we are sent." + </p> + <p> + The wind was from the north-east, and was blowing a fresh gale. The Prince + prepared to put to sea. While the men were heaving at the anchors a + message came to Cyril that Prince Rupert wished to speak to him in his + cabin. + </p> + <p> + "Sir Cyril, I am going to restore you to your command. The wind is so + strong and the sea will be so heavy that I would not risk my yacht and the + lives of the men by sending her down the Channel. I do not think there is + any chance of our meeting the French, and believe that it is here that the + battle will be fought, for with this wind the Dutch can be here in a few + hours, and I doubt not that as soon as they learn that one of our + squadrons has sailed away they will be out. The <i>Fan Fan</i> will sail + with us, but will run into Dover as we pass. Here is a letter that I have + written ordering you to do so, and authorising you to put out and join the + Admiral's Fleet, should the Dutch attack before my return. If you like to + have young Lord Oliphant with you he can go, but he must go as a Volunteer + under you. You are the captain of the <i>Fan Fan</i>, and have been so for + the last two months; therefore, although your friend is older than you + are, he must, if he choose to go, be content to serve under you. Stay, I + will put it to him myself." + </p> + <p> + He touched the bell, and ordered Sydney to be sent for. + </p> + <p> + "Lord Oliphant," he said, "I know that you and Sir Cyril are great + friends. I do not consider that the <i>Fan Fan</i>, of which he has for + some time been commander, is fit to keep the sea in a gale like this, and + I have therefore ordered him to take her into Dover. If the Dutch come out + to fight the Admiral, as I think they will, he will join the Fleet, and + although the <i>Fan Fan</i> can take but small share in the fighting, she + may be useful in carrying messages from the Duke while the battle is going + on. It seems to me that, as the <i>Fan Fan</i> is more likely to see + fighting than my ships, you, as a Volunteer, might prefer to transfer + yourself to her until she again joins us. Sir Cyril is younger than you + are, but if you go, you must necessarily be under his command seeing that + he is captain of the yacht. It is for you to choose whether you will + remain here or go with him." + </p> + <p> + "I should like to go with him, sir. He has had a good deal of experience + of the sea, while I have never set foot on board ship till last year. And + after what he did at Lowestoft I should say that any gentleman would be + glad to serve under him." + </p> + <p> + "That is the right feeling," Prince Rupert said warmly. "Then get your + things transferred to the yacht. If you join Albemarle's Fleet, Sir Cyril, + you will of course report yourself to him, and say that I directed you to + place yourself under his orders." + </p> + <p> + Five minutes later Cyril and his friend were on board the <i>Fan Fan.</i> + Scarcely had they reached her, when a gun was fired from Prince Rupert's + ship as a signal, and the ships of the White Squadron shook out their + sails, and, with the wind free, raced down towards the South Foreland. + </p> + <p> + "We are to put into Dover," Cyril said to the boatswain, a weatherbeaten + old sailor. + </p> + <p> + "The Lord be praised for that, sir! She is a tight little craft, but there + will be a heavy sea on as soon we are beyond shelter of the sands, and + with these two guns on board of her she will make bad weather. Besides, in + a wind like this, it ain't pleasant being in a little craft in the middle + of a lot of big ones, for if we were not swamped by the sea, we might very + well be run down. We had better keep her close to the Point, yer honour, + and then run along, under shelter of the cliffs, into Dover. The water + will be pretty smooth in there, though we had best carry as little sail as + we can, for the gusts will come down from above fit to take the mast out + of her." + </p> + <p> + "I am awfully glad you came with me, Sydney," Cyril said, as he took his + place with his friend near the helmsman, "but I wish the Prince had put + you in command. Of course, it is only a nominal thing, for the boatswain + is really the captain in everything that concerns making sail and giving + orders to the crew. Still, it would have been much nicer the other way." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see that it would, Cyril," Sydney laughed, "for you know as much + more about handling a boat like this than I do, as the boatswain does than + yourself. You have been on board her night and day for more than a month, + and even if you knew nothing about her at all, Prince Rupert would have + been right to choose you as a recognition of your great services last + time. Don't think anything about it. We are friends, and it does not + matter a fig which is the nominal commander. I was delighted to come, not + only to be with you, but because it will be a very great deal pleasanter + being our own masters on board this pretty little yacht than being + officers on board the <i>Henrietta</i> where we would have been only in + the way except when we went into action." + </p> + <p> + As soon as they rounded the Point most of the sail was taken off the <i>Fan + Fan,</i> but even under the small canvas she carried she lay over until + her lee rail was almost under water when the heavy squalls swooped down on + her from the cliffs. The rest of the squadron was keeping some distance + out, presenting a fine sight as the ships lay over, sending the spray + flying high into the air from their bluff bows, and plunging deeply into + the waves. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it is very distinctly better being where we are," Lord Oliphant + said, as he gazed at them. "I was beginning to feel qualmish before we got + under shelter of the Point, and by this time, if I had been on board the + <i>Henrietta,</i> I should have been prostrate, and should have had I know + not how long misery before me." + </p> + <p> + A quarter of an hour later they were snugly moored in Dover Harbour. For + twenty-four hours the gale continued; the wind then fell somewhat, but + continued to blow strongly from the same quarter. Two days later it veered + round to the south-west, and shortly afterwards the English Fleet could be + seen coming out past the Point. As soon as they did so they headed + eastward. + </p> + <p> + "They are going out to meet the Dutch," Sydney said, as they watched the + ships from the cliffs, "The news must have arrived that their fleet has + put out to sea." + </p> + <p> + "Then we may as well be off after them, Sydney; they will sail faster than + we shall in this wind, for it is blowing too strongly for us to carry much + sail." + </p> + <p> + They hurried on board. A quarter of an hour later the <i>Fan Fan</i> put + out from the harbour. The change of wind had caused an ugly cross sea and + the yacht made bad weather of it, the waves constantly washing over her + decks, but before they were off Calais she had overtaken some of the + slower sailers of the Fleet. The sea was less violent as they held on, for + they were now, to some extent, sheltered by the coast. + </p> + <p> + In a short time Cyril ran down into the cabin where Sydney was lying ill. + </p> + <p> + "The Admiral has given the signal to anchor, and the leading ships are + already bringing up. We will choose a berth as near the shore as we can; + with our light draught we can lie well inside of the others, and shall be + in comparatively smooth water." + </p> + <p> + Before dusk the Fleet was at anchor, with the exception of two or three of + the fastest frigates, which were sent on to endeavour to obtain some news + of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX — THE FIGHT OFF DUNKIRK + </h2> + <p> + As soon as the <i>Fan Fan</i> had been brought to an anchor the boat was + lowered, and Cyril was rowed on board the Admiral's ship. + </p> + <p> + Albemarle was on the poop, and Cyril made his report to him. + </p> + <p> + "Very well, sir," the Duke said, "I dare say I shall be able to make you + of some use. Keep your craft close to us when we sail. I seem to know your + face." + </p> + <p> + "I am Sir Cyril Shenstone, my Lord Duke. I had the honour of meeting you + first at the fire in the Savoy, and Prince Rupert afterwards was good + enough to present me to you." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, yes, I remember. And it was you who saved the <i>Henrietta</i> from + the fire-ship at Lowestoft. You have begun well indeed, young sir, and are + like to have further opportunities of showing your bravery." + </p> + <p> + Cyril bowed, and then, going down the side to his boat, returned to the <i>Fan + Fan.</i> She was lying in almost smooth water, and Sydney had come up on + deck again. + </p> + <p> + "You heard no news of the Dutch, I suppose, Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I asked a young officer as I left the ship, and he said that, so far + as he knew, nothing had been heard of them, but news had come in, before + the Admiral sailed from the Downs, that everything was ready for sea, and + that orders were expected every hour for them to put out." + </p> + <p> + "It is rather to be hoped that they won't put out for another two days," + Sydney said. "That will give the Prince time to rejoin with his squadron. + The wind is favourable now for his return, and I should think, as soon as + they hear in London that the Dutch are on the point of putting out, and + Albemarle has sailed, they will send him orders to join us at once. We + have only about sixty sail, while they say that the Dutch have over + ninety, which is too heavy odds against us to be pleasant." + </p> + <p> + "I should think the Duke will not fight till the Prince comes up." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think he will wait for him if he finds the Dutch near. All say + that he is over-confident, and apt to despise the Dutch too much. Anyhow, + he is as brave as a lion, and, though he might not attack unless the Dutch + begin it, I feel sure he will not run away from them." + </p> + <p> + The next morning early, the <i>Bristol</i> frigate was seen returning from + the east. She had to beat her way back in the teeth of the wind, but, when + still some miles away, a puff of white smoke was seen to dart out from her + side, and presently the boom of a heavy gun was heard. Again and again she + fired, and the signal was understood to be a notification that she had + seen the Dutch. The signal for the captains of the men-of-war to come on + board was at once run up to the mast-head of the flagship, followed by + another for the Fleet to be prepared to weigh anchor. Captain Bacon, of + the <i>Bristol</i>, went on board as soon as his ship came up. In a short + time the boats were seen to put off, and as the captains reached their + respective ships the signal to weigh anchor was hoisted. + </p> + <p> + This was hailed with a burst of cheering throughout the Fleet, and all + felt that it signified that they would soon meet the Dutch. The <i>Fan Fan</i> + was under sail long before the men-of-war had got up their heavy anchors, + and, sailing out, tacked backwards and forwards until the Fleet were under + sail, when Cyril told the boatswain to place her within a few cables' + length of the flagship on her weather quarter. After two hours' sail the + Dutch Fleet were made out, anchored off Dunkirk. The Blue Squadron, under + Sir William Berkley, led the way, the Red Squadron, under the Duke, + following. + </p> + <p> + "I will put a man in the chains with the lead," the boatswain said to + Cyril. "There are very bad sands off Dunkirk, and though we might get over + them in safety, the big ships would take ground, and if they did so we + should be in a bad plight indeed." + </p> + <p> + "In that case, we had best slack out the sheet a little, and take up our + post on the weather bow of the Admiral, so that we can signal to him if we + find water failing." + </p> + <p> + The topsail was hoisted, and the <i>Fan Fan,</i> which was a very fast + craft in comparatively smooth water, ran past the Admiral's flagship. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I order him back, your Grace?" the Captain asked angrily. + </p> + <p> + Albemarle looked at the <i>Fan Fan</i> attentively. + </p> + <p> + "They have got a man sounding," he said. "It is a wise precaution. The + young fellow in command knows what he is doing. We ought to have been + taking the same care. See! he is taking down his topsail again. Set an + officer to watch the yacht, and if they signal, go about at once." + </p> + <p> + The soundings continued for a short time at six fathoms, when suddenly the + man at the lead called out sharply,— + </p> + <p> + "Three fathoms!" + </p> + <p> + Cyril ran to the flagstaff, and as the next cry came—"Two fathoms!"—hauled + down the flag and stood waving his cap, while the boatswain, who had gone + to the tiller, at once pushed it over to starboard, and brought the yacht + up into the wind. Cyril heard orders shouted on board the flagship, and + saw her stern sweeping round. A moment later her sails were aback, but the + men, who already clustered round the guns, were not quick enough in + hauling the yards across, and, to his dismay, he saw the main topmast + bend, and then go over the side with a crash. All was confusion on board, + and for a time it seemed as if the other topmast would also go. + </p> + <p> + "Run her alongside within hailing distance," Cyril said to the boatswain. + "They will want to question us." + </p> + <p> + As they came alongside the flagship the Duke himself leant over the side. + </p> + <p> + "What water had you when you came about, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "We went suddenly from six fathoms to three, your Grace," Cyril shouted, + "and a moment after we found but two." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, sir," the Duke called back. "In that case you have certainly + saved our ship. I thought perhaps that you had been over-hasty, and had + thus cost us our topmast, but I see it was not so, and thank you. Our + pilot assured us there was plenty of water on the course we were taking." + </p> + <p> + The ships of the Red Squadron had all changed their course on seeing the + flagship come about so suddenly, and considerable delay and confusion was + caused before they again formed in order, and, in obedience to the Duke's + signal, followed in support of the Blue Squadron. This had already dashed + into the midst of the Dutch Fleet, who were themselves in some confusion; + for, so sudden had been the attack, that they had been forced to cut their + cables, having no time to get up their anchors. + </p> + <p> + The British ships poured in their broadsides as they approached, while the + Dutch opened a tremendous cannonade. Besides their great inferiority in + numbers, the British were under a serious disadvantage. They had the + weather gauge, and the wind was so strong that it heeled them over, so + that they were unable to open their lower ports, and were therefore + deprived of the use of their heaviest guns. + </p> + <p> + Four of the ships of the Red Squadron remained by the flagship, to protect + her if attacked, and to keep off fire-ships, while her crew laboured to + get up another topmast. More than three hours were occupied in this + operation, but so busily did the rest of the Fleet keep the Dutch at work + that they were unable to detach sufficient ships to attack her. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the topmast was in place and the sails hoisted, the flagship + and her consorts hastened to join their hard-pressed comrades. + </p> + <p> + The fight was indeed a desperate one. Sir William Berkley and his ship, + the <i>Swiftsure,</i> a second-rate, was taken, as was the <i>Essex,</i> a + third-rate. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Henry,</i> commanded by Sir John Harman, was surrounded by foes. + Her sails and rigging were shot to pieces, so she was completely disabled, + and the Dutch Admiral, Cornelius Evertz, summoned Sir John Harman to + surrender. + </p> + <p> + "It has not come to that yet," Sir John shouted back, and continued to + pour such heavy broadsides into the Dutch that several of their ships were + greatly damaged, and Evertz himself killed. + </p> + <p> + The Dutch captains drew off their vessels, and launched three fire-ships + at the <i>Henry.</i> The first one, coming up on her starboard quarter, + grappled with her. The dense volumes of smoke rising from her prevented + the sailors from discovering where the grapnels were fixed, and the flames + were spreading to her when her boatswain gallantly leapt on board the + fire-ship, and, by the light of its flames, discovered the grapnels and + threw them overboard, and succeeded in regaining his ship. + </p> + <p> + A moment later, the second fire-ship came up on the port side, and so + great a body of flames swept across the <i>Henry</i> that her chaplain and + fifty men sprang overboard. Sir John, however, drew his sword, and + threatened to cut down the first man who refused to obey orders, and the + rest of the crew, setting manfully to work, succeeded in extinguishing the + flames, and in getting free of the fire-ship. The halliards of the main + yard were, however, burnt through, and the spar fell, striking Sir John + Harman to the deck and breaking his leg. + </p> + <p> + The third fire-ship was received with the fire of four cannon loaded with + chain shot. These brought her mast down, and she drifted by, clear of the + <i>Henry,</i> which was brought safely into Harwich. + </p> + <p> + The fight continued the whole day, and did not terminate until ten o'clock + in the evening. The night was spent in repairing damages, and in the + morning the English recommenced the battle. It was again obstinately + contested. Admiral Van Tromp threw himself into the midst of the British + line, and suffered so heavily that he was only saved by the arrival of + Admiral de Ruyter. He, in his turn, was in a most perilous position, and + his ship disabled, when fresh reinforcements arrived. And so the battle + raged, until, in the afternoon, as if by mutual consent, the Fleets drew + off from each other, and the battle ceased. The fighting had been + extraordinarily obstinate and determined on both sides, many ships had + been sunk, several burnt, and some captured. The sea was dotted with + wreckage, masts, and spars, fragments of boats and <i>débris</i> of all + kinds. Both fleets presented a pitiable appearance; the hulls, but + forty-eight hours ago so trim and smooth, were splintered and jagged, + port-holes were knocked into one, bulwarks carried away, and stern + galleries gone. The sails were riddled with shot-holes, many of the ships + had lost one or more masts, while the light spars had been, in most cases, + carried away, and many of the yards had come down owing to the destruction + of the running gear. + </p> + <p> + In so tremendous a conflict the little <i>Fan Fan</i> could bear but a + small part. Cyril and Lord Oliphant agreed, at the commencement of the + first day's fight, that it would be useless for them to attempt to fire + their two little guns, but that their efforts should be entirely directed + against the enemy's fire-ships. During each day's battle, then, they + hovered round the flagship, getting out of the way whenever she was + engaged, as she often was, on both broadsides, and although once or twice + struck by stray shots, the <i>Fan Fan</i> received no serious damage. In + this encounter of giants, the little yacht was entirely overlooked, and + none of the great ships wasted a shot upon her. Two or three times each + day, when the Admiral's ship had beaten off her foes, a fire-ship directed + its course against her. Then came the <i>Fan Fan's</i> turn for action. + Under the pressure of her twelve oars she sped towards the fire-ship, and + on reaching her a grapnel was thrown over the end of the bowsprit, and by + the efforts of the rowers her course was changed, so that she swept + harmlessly past the flagship. + </p> + <p> + Twice when the vessels were coming down before the wind at a rate of speed + that rendered it evident that the efforts of the men at the oars would be + insufficient to turn her course, the <i>Fan Fan</i> was steered alongside, + grapnels were thrown, and, headed by Lord Oliphant and Cyril, the crew + sprang on board, cut down or drove overboard the few men who were in + charge of her. Then, taking the helm and trimming the sails, they directed + her against one of the Dutch men-of-war, threw the grapnels on board, + lighted the train, leapt back into the <i>Fan Fan</i>, rowed away, and + took up their place near the Admiral, the little craft being greeted with + hearty cheers by the whole ship's company. + </p> + <p> + The afternoon was spent in repairing damages as far as practicable, but + even the Duke saw it was impossible to continue the fight. The Dutch had + received a reinforcement while the fighting was going on that morning, and + although the English had inflicted terrible damage upon the Dutch Fleet, + their own loss in ships was greater than that which they had caused their + adversaries. A considerable portion of their vessels were not in a + condition to renew the battle, and the carpenters had hard work to save + them from sinking outright. Albemarle himself embarked on the <i>Fan Fan</i>, + and sailed from ship to ship, ascertaining the condition of each, and the + losses its crew had suffered. As soon as night fell, the vessels most + disabled were ordered to sail for England as they best could. The crew of + three which were totally dismasted and could hardly be kept afloat, were + taken out and divided between the twenty-eight vessels which alone + remained in a condition to renew the fight. + </p> + <p> + These three battered hulks were, early the next morning, set on fire, and + the rest of the Fleet, in good order and prepared to give battle, followed + their companions that had sailed on the previous evening. The Dutch + followed, but at a distance, thinking to repair their damages still + farther before they again engaged. In the afternoon the sails of a + squadron were seen ahead, and a loud cheer ran from ship to ship, for all + knew that this was Prince Rupert coming up with the White Squadron. A + serious loss, however, occurred a few minutes afterwards. The <i>Royal + Prince</i>, the largest and most powerful vessel in the Fleet, which was + somewhat in rear of the line, struck on the sands. The tide being with + them and the wind light, the rest of the Fleet tried in vain to return to + her assistance, and as the Dutch Fleet were fast coming up, and some of + the fire-ships making for the <i>Royal Prince</i>, they were forced to + give up the attempt to succour her, and Sir George Ayscue, her captain, + was obliged to haul down his flag and surrender. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the White Squadron joined the remnant of the Fleet the whole + advanced against the Dutch, drums beating and trumpets sounding, and twice + made their way through the enemy's line. But it was now growing dark, and + the third day's battle came to an end. The next morning it was seen that + the Dutch, although considerably stronger than the English, were almost + out of sight. The latter at once hoisted sail and pursued, and, at eight + o'clock, came up with them. + </p> + <p> + The Dutch finding the combat inevitable, the terrible fight was renewed, + and raged, without intermission, until seven in the evening. Five times + the British passed through the line of the Dutch. On both sides many ships + fell out of the fighting line wholly disabled. Several were sunk, and some + on both sides forced to surrender, being so battered as to be unable to + withdraw from the struggle. Prince Rupert's ship was wholly disabled, and + that of Albemarle almost as severely damaged, and the battle, like those + of the preceding days, ended without any decided advantage on either side. + Both nations claimed the victory, but equally without reason. The Dutch + historians compute our loss at sixteen men-of-war, of which ten were sunk + and six taken, while we admitted only a loss of nine ships, and claimed + that the Dutch lost fifteen men-of-war. Both parties acknowledged that it + was the most terrible battle fought in this, or any other modern war. + </p> + <p> + De Witte, who at that time was at the head of the Dutch Republic, and who + was a bitter enemy of the English, owned, some time afterwards, to Sir + William Temple, "that the English got more glory to their nation through + the invincible courage of their seamen during those engagements than by + the two victories of this war, and that he was sure that his own fleet + could not have been brought on to fight the fifth day, after the + disadvantages of the fourth, and he believed that no other nation was + capable of it but the English." + </p> + <p> + Cyril took no part in the last day's engagement, for Prince Rupert, when + the <i>Fan Fan</i> came near him on his arrival on the previous evening, + returned his salute from the poop, and shouted to him that on no account + was he to adventure into the fight with the <i>Fan Fan</i>. + </p> + <p> + On the morning after the battle ended, Lord Oliphant and Cyril rowed on + board Prince Rupert's ship, where every unwounded man was hard at work + getting up a jury-mast or patching up the holes in the hull. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Sir Cyril, I see that you have been getting my yacht knocked + about," he said, as they came up to him. + </p> + <p> + "There is not much damage done, sir. She has but two shot-holes in her + hull." + </p> + <p> + "And my new mainsail spoiled. Do you know, sir, that I got a severe rating + from the Duke yesterday evening, on your account?" + </p> + <p> + Cyril looked surprised. + </p> + <p> + "I trust, sir, that I have not in any way disobeyed orders?" + </p> + <p> + "No, it was not that. He asked after the <i>Fan Fan</i>, and said that he + had seen nothing of her during the day's fighting, and I said I had + strictly ordered you not to come into the battle. He replied, 'Then you + did wrong, Prince, for that little yacht of yours did yeomen's service + during the first two days' fighting. I told Sir Cyril to keep her near me, + thinking that she would be useful in carrying orders, and during those two + days she kept close to us, save when we were surrounded by the enemy. Five + times in those three days did she avert fire-ships from us. We were so + damaged that we could sail but slowly, and, thinking us altogether + unmanageable, the Dutch launched their fire-ships. The <i>Fan Fan</i> + rowed to meet them. Three of them were diverted from their course by a + rope being thrown over the bowsprit, and the crew rowing so as to turn her + head. On the second day there was more wind, and the fire-ships could have + held on their course in spite of the efforts of the men on board the <i>Fan + Fan</i>. Twice during the day the little boat was boldly laid alongside + them, while the crew boarded and captured them, and then, directing them + towards the Dutch ships, grappled and set them on fire. One of the + Dutchmen was burned, the other managed to throw off the grapnels. It was + all done under our eyes, and five times in the two days did my crew cheer + your little yacht as she came alongside. So you see, Prince, by ordering + her out of the fight you deprived us of the assistance of as boldly + handled a little craft as ever sailed.' + </p> + <p> + "'I am quite proud of my little yacht, gentlemen, and I thank you for + having given her so good a christening under fire. But I must stay no + longer talking. Here is the despatch I have written of my share of the + engagement. You, Sir Cyril, will deliver this. You will now row to the + Duke's ship, and he will give you his despatches, which you, Lord + Oliphant, will deliver. I need not say that you are to make all haste to + the Thames. We have no ship to spare except the <i>Fan Fan</i>, for we + must keep the few that are still able to manoeuvre, in case the Dutch + should come out again before we have got the crippled ones in a state to + make sail. '" + </p> + <p> + Taking leave of the Prince, they were at once rowed to the Duke's + flagship. They had a short interview with the Admiral, who praised them + highly for the service they had rendered. + </p> + <p> + "You will have to tell the story of the fighting," he said, "for the + Prince and myself have written but few lines; we have too many matters on + our minds to do scribe's work. They will have heard, ere now, of the first + two days' fighting, for some of the ships that were sent back will have + arrived at Harwich before this. By to-morrow morning I hope to have the + Fleet so far refitted as to be able to follow you." + </p> + <p> + Five minutes later, the <i>Fan Fan</i>, with every stitch of sail set, was + on her way to the Thames. As a brisk wind was blowing, they arrived in + London twenty-four hours later, and at once proceeded to the Admiralty, + the despatches being addressed to the Duke of York. They were immediately + ushered in to him. Without a word he seized the despatches, tore them + open, and ran his eye down them. + </p> + <p> + "God be praised!" he exclaimed, when he finished them. "We had feared even + worse intelligence, and have been in a terrible state of anxiety since + yesterday, when we heard from Harwich that one of the ships had come in + with the news that more than half the Fleet was crippled or destroyed, and + that twenty-eight only remained capable of continuing the battle. The only + hope was that the White Squadron might arrive in time, and it seems that + it has done so. The account of our losses is indeed a terrible one, but at + least we have suffered no defeat, and as the Dutch have retreated, they + must have suffered well-nigh as much as we have done. Come along with me + at once, gentlemen; I must go to the King to inform him of this great + news, which is vastly beyond what we could have hoped for. The Duke, in + his despatch, tells me that the bearers of it, Lord Oliphant and Sir Cyril + Shenstone, have done very great service, having, in Prince Rupert's little + yacht, saved his flagship no less than five times from the attacks of the + Dutch fire-ships." + </p> + <p> + The Duke had ordered his carriage to be in readiness as soon as he learnt + that the bearers of despatches from the Fleet had arrived. It was already + at the door, and, taking his seat in it, with Lord Oliphant and Cyril + opposite to him, he was driven to the Palace, learning by the way such + details as they could give him of the last two days' fighting. He led them + at once to the King's dressing-room. Charles was already attired, for he + had passed a sleepless night, and had risen early. + </p> + <p> + "What news, James?" he asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "Good news, brother. After two more days' fighting—and terrible + fighting, on both sides—the Dutch Fleet has returned to its ports." + </p> + <p> + "A victory!" the King exclaimed, in delight. + </p> + <p> + "A dearly-bought one with the lives of so many brave men, but a victory + nevertheless. Here are the despatches from Albemarle and Rupert. They have + been brought by these gentlemen, with whom you are already acquainted, in + Rupert's yacht. Albemarle speaks very highly of their conduct." + </p> + <p> + The King took the despatches, and read them eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "It has indeed been a dearly-bought victory," he said, "but it is + marvellous indeed how our captains and men bore themselves. Never have + they shown greater courage and endurance. Well may Monk say that, after + four days of incessant fighting and four nights spent in the labour of + repairing damages, the strength of all has well-nigh come to an end, and + that he himself can write but a few lines to tell me of what has happened, + leaving all details for further occasion. I thank you both, gentlemen, for + the speed with which you have brought me this welcome news, and for the + services of which the Duke of Albemarle speaks so warmly. This is the + second time, Sir Cyril, that my admirals have had occasion to speak of + great and honourable service rendered by you. Lord Oliphant, the Earl, + your father, will have reason to be proud when he hears you so highly + praised. Now, gentlemen, tell me more fully than is done in these + despatches as to the incidents of the fighting. I have heard something of + what took place in the first two days from an officer who posted up from + Harwich yesterday." + </p> + <p> + Lord Oliphant related the events of the first two days, and then went on. + </p> + <p> + "Of the last two I can say less, Your Majesty, for we took no part in, + having Prince Rupert's orders, given as he came up, that we should not + adventure into the fight. Therefore, we were but spectators, though we + kept on the edge of the fight and, if opportunity had offered, and we had + seen one of our ships too hard pressed, and threatened by fire-ships, we + should have ventured so far to transgress orders as to bear in and do what + we could on her behalf; but indeed, the smoke was so great that we could + see but little. + </p> + <p> + "It was a strange sight, when, on the Prince's arrival, his ships and + those of the Duke's, battered as they were, bore down on the Dutch line; + the drums beating, the trumpets sounding, and the crews cheering loudly. + We saw them disappear into the Dutch line; then the smoke shut all out + from view, and for hours there was but a thick cloud of smoke and a + continuous roar of the guns. Sometimes a vessel would come out from the + curtain of smoke torn and disabled. Sometimes it was a Dutchman, sometimes + one of our own ships. If the latter, we rowed up to them and did our best + with planks and nails to stop the yawning holes close to the water-line, + while the crew knotted ropes and got up the spars and yards, and then + sailed back into the fight. + </p> + <p> + "The first day's fighting was comparatively slight, for the Dutch seemed + to be afraid to close with the Duke's ships, and hung behind at a + distance. It was not till the White Squadron came up, and the Duke turned, + with Prince Rupert, and fell upon his pursuers like a wounded boar upon + the dogs, that the battle commenced in earnest; but the last day it went + on for nigh twelve hours without intermission; and when at last the roar + of the guns ceased, and the smoke slowly cleared off, it was truly a + pitiful sight, so torn and disabled were the ships. + </p> + <p> + "As the two fleets separated, drifting apart as it would almost seem, so + few were the sails now set, we rowed up among them, and for hours were + occupied in picking up men clinging to broken spars and wreckage, for but + few of the ships had so much as a single boat left. We were fortunate + enough to save well-nigh a hundred, of whom more than seventy were our own + men, the remainder Dutch. From these last we learnt that the ships of Van + Tromp and Ruyter had both been so disabled that they had been forced to + fall out of battle, and had been towed away to port. They said that their + Admirals Cornelius Evertz and Van der Hulst had both been killed, while on + our side we learnt that Admiral Sir Christopher Mings had fallen." + </p> + <p> + "Did the Dutch Fleet appear to be as much injured as our own?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Your Majesty. Judging by the sail set when the battle was over, + theirs must have been in better condition than ours, which is not + surprising, seeing how superior they were in force, and for the most part + bigger ships, and carrying more guns." + </p> + <p> + "Then you will have your hands full, James, or they will be ready to take + to sea again before we are. Next time I hope that we shall meet them with + more equal numbers." + </p> + <p> + "I will do the best I can, brother," the Duke replied. "Though we have so + many ships sorely disabled there have been but few lost, and we can supply + their places with the vessels that have been building with all haste. If + the Dutch will give us but two months' time I warrant that we shall be + able to meet them in good force." + </p> + <p> + As soon as the audience was over, Cyril and his friend returned to the <i>Fan + Fan</i>, and after giving the crew a few hours for sleep, sailed down to + Sheerness, where, shortly afterwards, Prince Rupert arrived with a portion + of the Fleet, the rest having been ordered to Harwich, Portsmouth, and + other ports, so that they could be more speedily refitted. + </p> + <p> + Although the work went on almost without intermission day and night, the + repairs were not completed before the news arrived that the Dutch Fleet + had again put to sea. Two days later they arrived off our coast, where, + finding no fleet ready to meet them, they sailed away to France, where + they hoped to be joined by their French allies. + </p> + <p> + Two days later, however, our ships began to assemble at the mouth of the + Thames, and on June 24th the whole Fleet was ready to take to sea. It + consisted of eighty men-of-war, large and small, and nineteen fire-ships. + Prince Rupert was in command of the Red Squadron, and the Duke of + Albemarle sailed with him, on board the same ship. Sir Thomas Allen was + Admiral of the White, and Sir Jeremiah Smith of the Blue Squadron. Cyril + remained on board the <i>Fan Fan</i>, Lord Oliphant returning to his + duties on board the flagship. Marvels had been effected by the zeal and + energy of the crews and dockyard men. But three weeks back, the English + ships had, for the most part, been crippled seemingly almost beyond + repair, but now, with their holes patched, with new spars, and in the + glory of fresh paint and new canvas, they made as brave a show as when + they had sailed out from the Downs a month previously. + </p> + <p> + They were anchored off the Nore when, late in the evening, the news came + out from Sheerness that a mounted messenger had just ridden in from Dover, + and that the Dutch Fleet had, in the afternoon, passed the town, and had + rounded the South Foreland, steering north. + </p> + <p> + Orders were at once issued that the Fleet should sail at daybreak, and at + three o'clock the next morning they were on their way down the river. At + ten o'clock the Dutch Fleet was seen off the North Foreland. According to + their own accounts they numbered eighty-eight men-of-war, with twenty-five + fire-ships, and were also divided into three squadrons, under De Ruyter, + John Evertz, and Van Tromp. + </p> + <p> + The engagement began at noon by an attack by the White Squadron upon that + commanded by Evertz. An hour later, Prince Rupert and the Duke, with the + Red Squadron, fell upon De Ruyter, while that of Van Tromp, which was at + some distance from the others, was engaged by Sir Jeremiah Smith with the + Blue Squadron. Sir Thomas Allen completely defeated his opponents, killing + Evertz, his vice- and rear-admirals, capturing the vice-admiral of + Zeeland, who was with him, and burning a ship of fifty guns. + </p> + <p> + The Red Squadron was evenly matched by that of De Ruyter, and each vessel + laid itself alongside an adversary. Although De Ruyter himself and his + vice-admiral, Van Ness, fought obstinately, their ships in general, + commanded, for the most part, by men chosen for their family influence + rather than for either seamanship or courage, behaved but badly, and all + but seven gradually withdrew from the fight, and went off under all sail; + and De Ruyter, finding himself thus deserted, was forced also to draw off. + During this time, Van Tromp, whose squadron was the strongest of the three + Dutch divisions, was so furiously engaged by the Blue Squadron, which was + the weakest of the English divisions, that he was unable to come to the + assistance of his consorts; when, however, he saw the defeat of the rest + of the Dutch Fleet, he, too, was obliged to draw off, lest he should have + the whole of the English down upon him, and was able the more easily to do + so as darkness was closing in when the battle ended. + </p> + <p> + The Dutch continued their retreat during the night, followed at a distance + by the Red Squadron, which was, next morning, on the point of overtaking + them, when the Dutch sought refuge by steering into the shallows, which + their light draught enabled them to cross, while the deeper English ships + were unable to follow. Great was the wrath and disappointment of the + English when they saw themselves thus baulked of reaping the full benefit + of the victory. Prince Rupert shouted to Cyril, who, in the <i>Fan Fan</i>, + had taken but small share in the engagement, as the fire-ships had not + played any conspicuous part in it. + </p> + <p> + "Sir Cyril, we can go no farther, but do you pursue De Ruyter and show him + in what contempt we hold him." + </p> + <p> + Cyril lifted his hat to show that he heard and understood the order. Then + he ordered his men to get out their oars, for the wind was very light, + and, amidst loud cheering, mingled with laughter, from the crews of the + vessels that were near enough to hear Prince Rupert's order, the <i>Fan + Fan</i> rowed out from the English line in pursuit of the Dutch. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI — LONDON IN FLAMES + </h2> + <p> + The sailors laughed and joked as they rowed away from the Fleet, but the + old boatswain shook his head. + </p> + <p> + "We shall have to be careful, Sir Cyril," he said. "It is like a small cur + barking at the heels of a bull—it is good fun enough for a bit, but + when the bull turns, perchance the dog will find himself thrown high in + the air." + </p> + <p> + Cyril nodded. He himself considered Prince Rupert's order to be beyond all + reason, and given only in the heat of his anger at De Ruyter having thus + escaped him, and felt that it was very likely to cost the lives of all on + board the <i>Fan Fan</i>. However, there was nothing to do but to carry it + out. It seemed to him that the boatswain's simile was a very apt one, and + that, although the spectacle of the <i>Fan Fan</i> worrying the great + Dutch battle-ship might be an amusing one to the English spectators, it + was likely to be a very serious adventure for her. + </p> + <p> + De Ruyter's ship, which was in the rear of all the other Dutch vessels, + was but a mile distant when the <i>Fan Fan</i> started, and as the wind + was so light that it scarce filled her sails, the yacht approached her + rapidly. + </p> + <p> + "We are within half a mile now, your honour," the boatswain said. "I + should say we had better go no nearer if we don't want to be blown out of + the water." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I think we may as well stop rowing now, and get the guns to work. + There are only those two cannon in her stern ports which can touch us + here. She will scarcely come up in the wind to give us a broadside. She is + moving so slowly through the water that it would take her a long time to + come round, and De Ruyter would feel ashamed to bring his great flag-ship + round to crush such a tiny foe." + </p> + <p> + The boatswain went forward to the guns, round which the men, after laying + in their oars, clustered in great glee. + </p> + <p> + "Now," he said, "you have got to make those two guns in the stern your + mark. Try and send your shots through the port-holes. It will be a waste + to fire them at the hull, for the balls would not penetrate the thick + timber that she is built of. Remember, the straighter you aim the more + chance there is that the Dutch won't hit us. Men don't stop to aim very + straight when they are expecting a shot among them every second. We will + fire alternately, and one gun is not to fire until the other is loaded + again. I will lay the first gun myself." + </p> + <p> + It was a good shot, and the crew cheered as they saw the splinters fly at + the edge of the port-hole. Shot after shot was fired with varying success. + </p> + <p> + The Dutch made no reply, and seemed to ignore the presence of their tiny + foe. The crew were, for the most part, busy aloft repairing damages, and + after half an hour's firing, without eliciting a reply, the boatswain went + aft to Cyril, and suggested that they should now aim at the spars. + </p> + <p> + "A lucky shot might do a good deal of damage, sir," he said. "The weather + is fine enough at present, but there is no saying when a change may come, + and if we could weaken one of the main spars it might be the means of her + being blown ashore, should the wind spring up in the right direction." + </p> + <p> + Cyril assented, and fire was now directed at the masts. A few ropes were + cut away, but no serious damage was effected until a shot struck one of + the halliard blocks of the spanker, and the sail at once ran down. + </p> + <p> + "It has taken a big bit out of the mast, too," the boatswain called + exultingly to Cyril. "I think that will rouse the Dutchmen up." + </p> + <p> + A minute later it was evident that the shot had at least had that effect. + Two puffs of smoke spirted out from the stern of the Dutch flagship, and, + simultaneously with the roar of the guns, came the hum of two heavy shot + flying overhead. Delighted at having excited the Dutchmen's wrath at last, + the crew of the <i>Fan Fan</i> took off their hats and gave a loud cheer, + and then, more earnestly than before, settled down to work; their guns + aimed now, as at first, at the port-holes. Four or five shots were + discharged from each of the little guns before the Dutch were ready again. + Then came the thundering reports. The <i>Fan Fan's</i> topmast was carried + away by one of the shot, but the other went wide. Two or three men were + told to cut away the wreckage, and the rest continued their fire. One of + the next shots of the enemy was better directed. It struck the deck close + to the foot of the mast, committed great havoc in Cyril's cabin, and + passed out through the stern below the water-line. Cyril leapt down the + companion as he heard the crash, shouting to the boatswain to follow him. + The water was coming through the hole in a great jet. Cyril seized a + pillow and—stuffed it into the shot-hole, being drenched from head + to foot in the operation. One of the sailors had followed the boatswain, + and Cyril called him to his assistance. + </p> + <p> + "Get out the oars at once," he said to the boatswain. "Another shot like + this and she will go down. Get a piece cut off a spar and make a plug. + There is no holding this pillow in its place, and the water comes in fast + still." + </p> + <p> + The sailor took Cyril's post while he ran up on deck and assisted in + cutting the plug; this was roughly shaped to the size of the hole, and + then driven in. It stopped the rush of the water, but a good deal still + leaked through. + </p> + <p> + By the time this was done the <i>Fan Fan</i> had considerably increased + her distance from De Ruyter. Four or five more shots were fired from the + Dutch ship. The last of these struck the mast ten feet above the deck, + bringing it down with a crash. Fortunately, none of the crew were hurt, + and, dropping the oars, they hauled the mast alongside, cut the sail from + its fastening to the hoops and gaff, and then severed the shrouds and + allowed the mast to drift away, while they again settled themselves to the + oars. Although every man rowed his hardest, the <i>Fan Fan</i> was half + full of water before she reached the Fleet, which was two miles astern of + them when they first began to row. + </p> + <p> + "Well done, <i>Fan Fan</i>!" Prince Rupert shouted, as the little craft + came alongside. "Have you suffered any damage besides your spars? I see + you are low in the water." + </p> + <p> + "We were shot through our stern, sir; we put in a plug, but the water + comes in still. Will you send a carpenter on board? For I don't think she + will float many minutes longer unless we get the hole better stopped." + </p> + <p> + The Prince gave some orders to an officer standing by him. The latter + called two or three sailors and bade them bring some short lengths of + thick hawser, while a strong party were set to reeve tackle to the + mainyard. As soon as the hawsers, each thirty feet in length, were + brought, they were dropped on to the deck of the <i>Fan Fan</i>, and the + officer told the crew to pass them under her, one near each end, and to + knot the hawsers. By the time this was done, two strong tackles were + lowered and fixed to the hawsers, and the crew ordered to come up on to + the ship. The tackles were then manned and hauled on by strong parties, + and the <i>Fan Fan</i> was gradually raised. The boatswain went below + again and knocked out the plug, and, as the little yacht was hoisted up, + the water ran out of it. As soon as the hole was above the water-level, + the tackle at the bow was gradually slackened off until she lay with her + fore-part in the water, which came some distance up her deck. The + carpenter then slung himself over the stern, and nailed, first a piece of + tarred canvas, and then a square of plank, over the hole. Then the stern + tackle was eased off, and the <i>Fan Fan</i> floated on a level keel. Her + crew went down to her again, and, in half an hour, pumped her free of + water. + </p> + <p> + By this time, the results of the victory were known. On the English side, + the <i>Resolution</i> was the only ship lost, she having been burnt by a + Dutch fire-ship; three English captains, and about three hundred men were + killed. On the other hand, the Dutch lost twenty ships, four admirals, a + great many of their captains, and some four thousand men. It was, indeed, + the greatest and most complete victory gained throughout the war. Many of + the British ships had suffered a good deal, that which carried the Duke's + flag most of all, for it had been so battered in the fight with De Ruyter + that the Duke and Prince Rupert had been obliged to leave her, and to + hoist their flags upon another man-of-war. + </p> + <p> + The next morning the Fleet sailed to Schonevelt, which was the usual <i>rendezvous</i> + of the Dutch Fleet, and there remained some time, altogether undisturbed + by the enemy. The <i>Fan Fan</i> was here thoroughly repaired. + </p> + <p> + On July 29th they sailed for Ulic, where they arrived on August 7th, the + wind being contrary. + </p> + <p> + Learning that there was a large fleet of merchantmen lying between the + islands of Ulic and Schelling, guarded by but two men-of-war, and that + there were rich magazines of goods on these islands, it was determined to + attack them. Four small frigates, of a slight draught of water, and five + fire-ships, were selected for the attack, together with the boats of the + Fleet, manned by nine hundred men. + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the 8th, Cyril was ordered to go, in the <i>Fan Fan</i>, + to reconnoitre the position of the Dutch. He did not sail until after + nightfall, and, on reaching the passage between the islands, he lowered + his sails, got out his oars, and drifted with the tide silently down + through the Dutch merchant fleet, where no watch seemed to be kept, and in + the morning carried the news to Sir Robert Holmes, the commander of the + expedition, who had anchored a league from the entrance. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had sounded the passage as he went through, and it was found that + two of the frigates could not enter it. These were left at the anchorage, + and, on arriving at the mouth of the harbour, the <i>Tiger</i>, Sir Robert + Holmes's flagship, was also obliged to anchor, and he came on board the <i>Fan + Fan</i>, on which he hoisted his flag. The captains of the other ships + came on board, and it was arranged that the <i>Pembroke</i>, which had but + a small draught of water, should enter at once with the five fire-ships. + </p> + <p> + The attack was completely successful. Two of the fire-ships grappled with + the men-of-war and burnt them, while three great merchantmen were + destroyed by the others. Then the boats dashed into the fleet, and, with + the exception of four or five merchantmen and four privateers, who took + refuge in a creek, defended by a battery, the whole of the hundred and + seventy merchantmen, the smallest of which was not less than 200 tons + burden, and all heavily laden, were burned. + </p> + <p> + The next day, Sir Robert Holmes landed eleven companies of troops on the + Island of Schonevelt and burnt Bandaris, its principal town, with its + magazines and store-houses, causing a loss to the Dutch, according to + their own admission, of six million guilders. This, and the loss of the + great Fleet, inflicted a very heavy blow upon the commerce of Holland. The + <i>Fan Fan</i> had been hit again by a shot from one of the batteries, + and, on her rejoining the Fleet, Prince Rupert determined to send her to + England so that she could be thoroughly repaired and fitted out again. + Cyril's orders were to take her to Chatham, and to hand her over to the + dockyard authorities. + </p> + <p> + "I do not think the Dutch will come out and fight us again this autumn, + Sir Cyril, so you can take your ease in London as it pleases you. We are + now halfway through August, and it will probably be at least a month after + your arrival before the <i>Fan Fan</i> is fit for sea again. It may be a + good deal longer than that, for they are busy upon the repairs of the + ships sent home after the battle, and will hardly take any hands off these + to put on to the <i>Fan Fan</i>. In October we shall all be coming home + again, so that, until next spring, it is hardly likely that there will be + aught doing." + </p> + <p> + Cyril accordingly returned to London. The wind was contrary, and it was + not until the last day of August that he dropped anchor in the Medway. + After spending a night at Chatham, he posted up to London the next + morning, and, finding convenient chambers in the Savoy, he installed + himself there, and then proceeded to the house of the Earl of Wisbech, to + whom he was the bearer of a letter from his son. Finding that the Earl and + his family were down at his place near Sevenoaks, he went into the City, + and spent the evening at Captain Dave's, having ordered his servant to + pack a small valise, and bring it with the two horses in the morning. He + had gone to bed but an hour when he was awoke by John Wilkes knocking at + his door. + </p> + <p> + "There is a great fire burning not far off, Sir Cyril. A man who ran past + told me it was in Pudding Lane, at the top of Fish Street. The Captain is + getting up, and is going out to see it; for, with such dry weather as we + have been having, there is no saying how far it may go." + </p> + <p> + Cyril sprang out of his bed and dressed. Captain Dave, accustomed to slip + on his clothes in a hurry, was waiting for him, and, with John Wilkes, + they sallied out. There was a broad glare of light in the sky, and the + bells of many of the churches were ringing out the fire-alarm. As they + passed, many people put their heads out from windows and asked where the + fire was. In five minutes they approached the scene. A dozen houses were + blazing fiercely, while, from those near, the inhabitants were busily + removing their valuables. The Fire Companies, with their buckets, were + already at work, and lines of men were formed down to the river and were + passing along buckets from hand to hand. Well-nigh half the water was + spilt, however, before it arrived at the fire, and, in the face of such a + body of flame, it seemed to make no impression whatever. + </p> + <p> + "They might as well attempt to pump out a leaky ship with a child's + squirt," the Captain said. "The fire will burn itself out, and we must + pray heaven that the wind drops altogether; 'tis not strong, but it will + suffice to carry the flames across these narrow streets. 'Tis lucky that + it is from the east, so there is little fear that it will travel in our + direction." + </p> + <p> + They learnt that the fire had begun in the house of Faryner, the King's + baker, though none knew how it had got alight. It was not long before the + flames leapt across the lane, five or six houses catching fire almost at + the same moment. A cry of dismay broke from the crowd, and the fright of + the neighbours increased. Half-clad women hurried from their houses, + carrying their babes, and dragging their younger children out. Men + staggered along with trunks of clothing and valuables. Many wrung their + hands helplessly, while the City Watch guarded the streets leading to + Pudding Lane, so as to prevent thieves and vagabonds from taking advantage + of the confusion to plunder. + </p> + <p> + With great rapidity the flames spread from house to house. A portion of + Fish Street was already invaded, and the Church of St. Magnus in danger. + The fears of the people increased in proportion to the advance of the + conflagration. The whole neighbourhood was now alarmed, and, in all the + streets round, people were beginning to remove their goods. The river + seemed to be regarded by all as the safest place of refuge. The boats from + the various landing-places had already come up, and these were doing a + thriving trade by taking the frightened people, with what goods they + carried, to lighters and ships moored in the river. + </p> + <p> + The lines of men passing buckets had long since broken up, it being too + evident that their efforts were not of the slightest avail. The wind had, + in the last two hours, rapidly increased in strength, and was carrying the + burning embers far and wide. + </p> + <p> + Cyril and his companions had, after satisfying their first curiosity, set + to work to assist the fugitives, by aiding them to carry down their goods + to the waterside. Cyril was now between eighteen and nineteen, and had + grown into a powerful, young fellow, having, since he recovered from the + Plague, grown fast and widened out greatly. He was able to shoulder heavy + trunks, and to carry them down without difficulty. + </p> + <p> + By six o'clock, however, all were exhausted by their labours, and Captain + Dave's proposal, that they should go back and get breakfast and have a + wash, was at once agreed to. + </p> + <p> + At this time the greater part of Fish Street was in flames, the Church of + St. Magnus had fallen, and the flames had spread to many of the streets + and alleys running west. The houses on the Bridge were blazing. + </p> + <p> + "Well, father, what is the news?" Nellie exclaimed, as they entered. "What + have you been doing? You are all blackened, like the men who carry out the + coals from the ships. I never saw such figures." + </p> + <p> + "We have been helping people to carry their goods down to the water, + Nellie. The news is bad. The fire is a terrible one." + </p> + <p> + "That we can see, father. Mother and I were at the window for hours after + you left, and the whole sky seemed ablaze. Do you think that there is any + danger of its coming here?" + </p> + <p> + "The wind is taking the flames the other way, Nellie, but in spite of that + I think that there is danger. The heat is so great that the houses catch + on this side, and we saw, as we came back, that it had travelled + eastwards. Truly, I believe that if the wind keeps on as it is at present, + the whole City will be destroyed. However, we will have a wash first and + then some breakfast, of which we are sorely in need. Then we can talk over + what had best be done." + </p> + <p> + Little was said during breakfast. The apprentices had already been out, + and so excited were they at the scenes they had witnessed that they had + difficulty in preserving their usual quiet and submissive demeanour. + Captain Dave was wearied with his unwonted exertions. Mrs. Dowsett and + Nellie both looked pale and anxious, and Cyril and John Wilkes were + oppressed by the terrible scene of destruction and the widespread misery + they had witnessed. + </p> + <p> + When breakfast was over, Captain Dave ordered the apprentices on no + account to leave the premises. They were to put up the shutters at once, + and then to await orders. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think we had better do, Cyril?" he said, when the boys had + left the room. + </p> + <p> + "I should say that you had certainly better go on board a ship, Captain + Dave. There is time to move now quietly, and to get many things taken on + board, but if there were a swift change of wind the flames would come down + so suddenly that you would have no time to save anything. Do you know of a + captain who would receive you?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly; I know of half a dozen." + </p> + <p> + "Then the first thing is to secure a boat before they are all taken up." + </p> + <p> + "I will go down to the stairs at once." + </p> + <p> + "Then I should say, John, you had better go off with Captain Dave, and, as + soon as he has arranged with one of the captains, come back to shore. Let + the waterman lie off in the stream, for if the flames come this way there + will be a rush for boats, and people will not stop to ask to whom they + belong. It will be better still to take one of the apprentices with you, + leave him at the stairs till you return, and then tie up to a ship till we + hail him." + </p> + <p> + "That will be the best plan," Captain Dave said. "Now, wife, you and + Nellie and the maid had best set to work at once packing up all your best + clothes and such other things as you may think most valuable. We shall + have time, I hope, to make many trips." + </p> + <p> + "While you are away, I will go along the street and see whether the fire + is making any way in this direction," Cyril said. "Of course if it's + coming slowly you will have time to take away a great many things. And we + may even hope that it may not come here at all." + </p> + <p> + Taking one of the apprentices, Captain Dave and John at once started for + the waterside, while Cyril made his way westward. + </p> + <p> + Already, people were bringing down their goods from most of the houses. + Some acted as if they believed that if they took the goods out of the + houses they would be safe, and great piles of articles of all kinds almost + blocked the road. Weeping women and frightened children sat on these piles + as if to guard them. Some stood at their doors wringing their hands + helplessly; others were already starting eastward laden with bundles and + boxes, occasionally looking round as if to bid farewell to their homes. + Many of the men seemed even more confused and frightened than the women, + running hither and thither without purpose, shouting, gesticulating, and + seeming almost distraught with fear and grief. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had not gone far when he saw that the houses on both sides of the + street, at the further end, were already in flames. He was obliged to + advance with great caution, for many people were recklessly throwing goods + of all kinds from the windows, regardless of whom they might fall upon, + and without thought of how they were to be carried away. He went on until + close to the fire, and stood for a time watching. The noise was + bewildering. Mingled with the roar of the flames, the crackling of + woodwork, and the heavy crashes that told of the fall of roofs or walls, + was the clang of the alarm-bells, shouts, cries, and screams. The fire + spread steadily, but with none of the rapidity with which he had seen it + fly along from house to house on the other side of the conflagration. The + houses, however, were largely composed of wood. The balconies generally + caught first, and the fire crept along under the roofs, and sometimes a + shower of tiles, and a burst of flames, showed that it had advanced there, + while the lower portion of the house was still intact. + </p> + <p> + "Is it coming, Cyril?" Mrs. Dowsett asked, when he returned. + </p> + <p> + "It is coming steadily," he said, "and can be stopped by nothing short of + a miracle. Can I help you in any way?" + </p> + <p> + "No," she said; "we have packed as many things as can possibly be carried. + It is well that your things are all at your lodging, Cyril, and beyond the + risk of this danger." + </p> + <p> + "It would have mattered little about them," he said. "I could have + replaced them easily enough. That is but a question of money. And now, in + the first place, I will get the trunks and bundles you have packed + downstairs. That will save time." + </p> + <p> + Assisted by the apprentice and Nellie, Cyril got all the things + downstairs. + </p> + <p> + "How long have we, do you think?" Nellie asked. + </p> + <p> + "I should say that in three hours the fire will be here," he said. "It may + be checked a little at the cross lanes; but I fear that three hours is all + we can hope for." + </p> + <p> + Just as they had finished taking down the trunks, Captain Dave and John + Wilkes arrived. + </p> + <p> + "I have arranged the affair," the former said. "My old friend, Dick + Watson, will take us in his ship; she lies but a hundred yards from the + stairs. Now, get on your mantle and hood, Nellie, and bring your mother + and maid down." + </p> + <p> + The three women were soon at the foot of the stairs, and Mrs. Dowsett's + face showed signs of tears; but, though pale, she was quiet and calm, and + the servant, a stout wench, had gained confidence from her mistress's + example. As soon as they were ready, the three men each shouldered a + trunk. The servant and the apprentice carried one between them. Mrs. + Dowsett and her daughter took as many bundles as they could carry. It was + but five minutes' walk down to the stairs. The boat was lying twenty yards + out in the stream, fastened up to a lighter, with the apprentice and + waterman on board. It came at once alongside, and in five minutes they + reached the <i>Good Venture</i>. As soon as the women had ascended the + accommodation ladder, some sailors ran down and helped to carry up the + trunks. + </p> + <p> + "Empty them all out in the cabin," Captain Dave said to his wife; "we will + take them back with us." + </p> + <p> + As soon as he had seen the ladies into the cabin, Captain Watson called + his son Frank, who was his chief mate, and half a dozen of his men. These + carried the boxes, as fast as they were emptied, down into the boat. + </p> + <p> + "We will all go ashore together," he said to Captain Dave. "I was a fool + not to think of it before. We will soon make light work of it." + </p> + <p> + As soon as they reached the house, some of the sailors were sent off with + the remaining trunks and bundles, while the others carried upstairs those + they had brought, and quickly emptied into them the remaining contents of + the drawers and linen press. So quickly and steadily did the work go on, + that no less than six trips were made to the <i>Good Venture</i> in the + next three hours, and at the end of that time almost everything portable + had been carried away, including several pieces of valuable furniture, and + a large number of objects brought home by Captain Dave from his various + voyages. The last journey, indeed, was devoted to saving some of the most + valuable contents of the store. Captain Dave, delighted at having saved so + much, would not have thought of taking more, but Captain Watson would not + hear of this. + </p> + <p> + "There is time for one more trip, old friend," he said, "and there are + many things in your store that are worth more than their weight in silver. + I will take my other two hands this time, and, with the eight men and our + five selves, we shall be able to bring a good load." + </p> + <p> + The trunks were therefore this time packed with ship's instruments, and + brass fittings of all kinds, to the full weight that could be carried. All + hands then set to work, and, in a very short time, a great proportion of + the portable goods were carried from the store-house into an arched cellar + beneath it. By the time that they were ready to start there were but six + houses between them and the fire. + </p> + <p> + "I wish we had another three hours before us," Captain Watson said. "It + goes to one's heart to leave all this new rope and sail cloth, good + blocks, and other things, to be burnt." + </p> + <p> + "There have been better things than that burnt to-day, Watson. Few men + have saved as much as I have, thanks to your assistance and that of these + stout sailors of yours. Why, the contents of these twelve boxes are worth + as much as the whole of the goods remaining." + </p> + <p> + The sailors' loads were so heavy that they had to help each other to get + them upon their shoulders, and the other five were scarcely less weighted; + and, short as was the distance, all had to rest several times on the way + to the stairs, setting their burdens upon window-sills, or upon boxes + scattered in the streets. One of the ship's boats had, after the first + trip, taken the place of the light wherry, but even this was weighted down + to the gunwale when the men and the goods were all on board. After the + first two trips, the contents of the boxes had been emptied on deck, and + by the time the last arrived the three women had packed away in the empty + cabins all the clothing, linen, and other articles, that had been taken + below. Captain Watson ordered a stiff glass of grog to be given to each of + the sailors, and then went down with the others into the main cabin, where + the steward had already laid the table for a meal, and poured out five + tumblers of wine. + </p> + <p> + "I have not had so tough a job since I was before the mast," he said. + "What say you, Captain Dave?" + </p> + <p> + "It has been a hard morning's work, indeed, Watson, and, in truth, I feel + fairly spent. But though weary in body I am cheerful in heart. It seemed + to me at breakfast-time that we should save little beyond what we stood + in, and now I have rescued well-nigh everything valuable that I have. I + should have grieved greatly had I lost all those mementos that it took me + nigh thirty years to gather, and those pieces of furniture that belonged + to my father I would not have lost for any money. Truly, it has been a + noble salvage." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Dowsett and Nellie now joined them. They had quite recovered their + spirits, and were delighted at the unexpected rescue of so many things + precious to them, and Captain Watson was overwhelmed by their thanks for + what he had done. + </p> + <p> + After the meal was over they sat quietly talking for a time, and then + Cyril proposed that they should row up the river and see what progress the + fire was making above the Bridge. Mrs. Dowsett, however, was too much + fatigued by her sleepless night and the troubles and emotions of the + morning to care about going. Captain Dave said that he was too stiff to do + anything but sit quiet and smoke a pipe, and that he would superintend the + getting of their things on deck a little ship-shape. Nellie embraced the + offer eagerly, and young Watson, who was a well-built and handsome fellow, + with a pleasant face and manner, said that he would go, and would take a + couple of hands to row. The tide had just turned to run up when they set + out. Cyril asked the first mate to steer, and he sat on one side of him + and Nellie on the other. + </p> + <p> + "You will have to mind your oars, lads," Frank Watson said. "The river is + crowded with boats." + </p> + <p> + They crossed over to the Southwark side, as it would have been dangerous + to pass under the arches above which the houses were burning. The flames, + however, had not spread right across the bridge, for the houses were built + only over the piers, and the openings at the arches had checked the + flames, and at these points numbers of men were drawing water in buckets + and throwing it over the fronts of the houses, or passing them, by ropes, + to other men on the roofs, which were kept deluged with water. Hundreds of + willing hands were engaged in the work, for the sight of the tremendous + fire on the opposite bank filled people with terror lest the flames should + cross the bridge and spread to the south side of the river. The warehouses + and wharves on the bank were black with spectators, who looked with + astonishment and awe at the terrible scene of destruction. + </p> + <p> + It was not until they passed under the bridge that the full extent of the + conflagration was visible. The fire had made its way some distance along + Thames Street, and had spread far up into the City. Gracechurch Street and + Lombard Street were in flames, and indeed the fire seemed to have extended + a long distance further; but the smoke was so dense, that it was difficult + to make out the precise point that it had reached. The river was a + wonderful sight. It was crowded with boats and lighters, all piled up with + goods, while along the quays from Dowgate to the Temple, crowds of people + were engaged in placing what goods they had saved on board lighters and + other craft. Many of those in the boats seemed altogether helpless and + undecided as to what had best be done, and drifted along with the tide, + but the best part were making either for the marshes at Lambeth or the + fields at Millbank, there to land their goods, the owners of the boats + refusing to keep them long on board, as they desired to return by the next + tide to fetch away other cargoes, being able to obtain any price they + chose to demand for their services. + </p> + <p> + Among the boats were floating goods and wreckage of all kinds, charred + timber that had fallen from the houses on the bridge, and from the + warehouses by the quays, bales of goods, articles of furniture, bedding, + and other matters. At times, a sudden change of wind drove a dense smoke + across the water, flakes of burning embers and papers causing great + confusion among the boats, and threatening to set the piles of goods on + fire. + </p> + <p> + At Frank Watson's suggestion, they landed at the Temple, after having been + some two hours on the river. Going up into Fleet Street, they found a + stream of carts and other vehicles proceeding westward, all piled with + furniture and goods, mostly of a valuable kind. The pavements were + well-nigh blocked with people, all journeying in the same direction, laden + with their belongings. With difficulty they made their way East as far as + St. Paul's. The farther end of Cheapside was already in flames, and they + learnt that the fire had extended as far as Moorfields. It was said that + efforts had been made to pull down houses and so check its progress, but + that there was no order or method, and that no benefit was gained by the + work. + </p> + <p> + After looking on at the scene for some time, they returned to Fleet + Street. Frank Watson went down with Nellie to the boat, while Cyril went + to his lodgings in the Savoy. Here he found his servant anxiously awaiting + him. + </p> + <p> + "I did not bring the horses this morning, sir," he said. "I heard that + there was a great fire, and went on foot as far as I could get, but, + finding that I could not pass, I thought it best to come back here and + await your return." + </p> + <p> + "Quite right, Reuben; you could not have got the horses to me unless you + had ridden round the walls and come in at Aldgate, and they would have + been useless had you brought them. The house at which I stayed last night + is already burnt to the ground. You had better stay here for the present, + I think. There is no fear of the fire extending beyond the City. Should + you find that it does so, pack my clothes in the valises, take the horses + down to Sevenoaks, and remain at the Earl's until you hear from me." + </p> + <p> + Having arranged this, Cyril went down to the Savoy stairs, where he found + the boat waiting for him, and then they rowed back to London Bridge, + where, the force of the tide being now abated, they were able to row + through and get to the <i>Good Venture</i>. + </p> + <p> + They had but little sleep that night. Gradually the fire worked its way + eastward until it was abreast of them. The roaring and crackling of the + flames was prodigious. Here and there the glare was diversified by columns + of a deeper red glow, showing where warehouses, filled with pitch, tar, + and oil, were in flames. The heavy crashes of falling buildings were + almost incessant. Occasionally they saw a church tower or steeple, that + had stood for a time black against the glowing sky, become suddenly + wreathed in flames, and, after burning for a time, fall with a crash that + could be plainly heard above the general roar. + </p> + <p> + "Surely such a fire was never seen before!" Captain Dave said. + </p> + <p> + "Not since Rome was burnt, I should think," Cyril replied. + </p> + <p> + "How long was that ago, Cyril? I don't remember hearing about it." + </p> + <p> + "'Tis fifteen hundred years or so since then, Captain Dave; but the + greater part of the city was destroyed, and Rome was then many times + bigger than London. It burnt for three days." + </p> + <p> + "Well, this is bad enough," Captain Watson said. "Even here the heat is + well-nigh too great to face. Frank, you had better call the crew up and + get all the sails off the yards. Were a burning flake to fall on them we + might find it difficult to extinguish them. When they have done that, let + the men get all the buckets filled with water and ranged on the deck; and + it will be as well to get a couple of hands in the boat and let them chuck + water against this side. We shall have all the paint blistered off before + morning." + </p> + <p> + So the night passed. Occasionally they went below for a short time, but + they found it impossible to sleep, and were soon up again, and felt it a + relief when the morning began to break. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII — AFTER THE FIRE + </h2> + <p> + Daylight brought little alleviation to the horrors of the scene. The + flames were less vivid, but a dense pall of smoke overhung the sky. As + soon as they had breakfasted, Captain Watson, his son, Captain Dowsett, + Nellie, and Cyril took their places in the boat, and were rowed up the + river. An exclamation burst from them all as they saw how fast the flames + had travelled since the previous evening. + </p> + <p> + "St. Paul's is on fire!" Cyril exclaimed. "See! there are flames bursting + through its roof. I think, Captain Watson, if you will put me ashore at + the Temple, I will make my way to Whitehall, and report myself there. I + may be of use." + </p> + <p> + "I will do that," Captain Watson said. "Then I will row back to the ship + again. We must leave a couple of hands on board, in case some of these + burning flakes should set anything alight. We will land with the rest, and + do what we can to help these poor women and children." + </p> + <p> + "I will stay on board and take command, if you like, Watson," Captain Dave + said. "You ought to have some one there, and I have not recovered from + yesterday's work, and should be of little use ashore." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, Dowsett. That will certainly be best; but I think it will be + prudent, before we leave, to run out a kedge with forty or fifty fathoms + of cable towards the middle of the stream, and then veer out the cable on + her anchor so as to let her ride thirty fathoms or so farther out. We left + six men sluicing her side and deck, but it certainly would be prudent to + get her out a bit farther. Even here, the heat is as much as we can + stand." + </p> + <p> + As soon as Cyril had landed, he hurried up into Fleet Street. He had just + reached Temple Bar when he saw a party of horsemen making their way + through the carts. A hearty cheer greeted them from the crowd, who hoped + that the presence of the King—for it was Charles who rode in front—was + a sign that vigorous steps were about to be taken to check the progress of + the flames. Beside the King rode the Duke of Albemarle, and following were + a number of other gentlemen and officers. Cyril made his way through the + crowd to the side of the Duke's horse. + </p> + <p> + "Can I be of any possible use, my Lord Duke?" he asked, doffing his hat. + </p> + <p> + "Ah, Sir Cyril, it is you, is it? I have not seen you since you bearded De + Ruyter in the <i>Fan Fan</i>. Yes, you can be of use. We have five hundred + sailors and dockyard men behind; they have just arrived from Chatham, and + a thousand more have landed below the Bridge to fight the flames on that + side. Keep by me now, and, when we decide where to set to work, I will put + you under the orders of Captain Warncliffe, who has charge of them." + </p> + <p> + When they reached the bottom of Fleet Street, the fire was halfway down + Ludgate Hill, and it was decided to begin operations along the bottom of + the Fleet Valley. The dockyard men and sailors were brought up, and + following them were some carts laden with kegs of powder. + </p> + <p> + "Warncliffe," Lord Albemarle said, as the officer came up at the head of + them, "Sir Cyril Shenstone is anxious to help. You know him by repute, and + you can trust him in any dangerous business. You had better tell off + twenty men under him. You have only to tell him what you want done, and + you can rely upon its being done thoroughly." + </p> + <p> + The sailors were soon at work along the line of the Fleet Ditch. All + carried axes, and with these they chopped down the principal beams of the + small houses clustered by the Ditch, and so weakened them that a small + charge of powder easily brought them down. In many places they met with + fierce opposition from the owners, who, still clinging to the faint hope + that something might occur to stop the progress of the fire before it + reached their abodes, raised vain protestations against the destruction of + their houses. All day the men worked unceasingly, but in vain. Driven by + the fierce wind, the flames swept down the opposite slope, leapt over the + space strewn with rubbish and beams, and began to climb Fleet Street and + Holborn Hill and the dense mass of houses between them. + </p> + <p> + The fight was renewed higher up. Beer and bread and cheese were obtained + from the taverns, and served out to the workmen, and these kept at their + task all night. Towards morning the wind had fallen somewhat. The open + spaces of the Temple favoured the defenders; the houses to east of it were + blown up, and, late in the afternoon, the progress of the flames at this + spot was checked. As soon as it was felt that there was no longer any fear + of its further advance here, the exhausted men, who had, for twenty-four + hours, laboured, half suffocated by the blinding smoke and by the dust + made by their own work, threw themselves down on the grass of the Temple + Gardens and slept. At midnight they were roused by their officers, and + proceeded to assist their comrades, who had been battling with the flames + on the other side of Fleet Street. They found that these too had been + successful; the flames had swept up to Fetter Lane, but the houses on the + west side had been demolished, and although, at one or two points, the + fallen beams caught fire, they were speedily extinguished. Halfway up + Fetter Lane the houses stood on both sides uninjured, for a large open + space round St. Andrew's, Holborn, had aided the defenders in their + efforts to check the flames. North of Holborn the fire had spread but + little, and that only among the poorer houses in Fleet Valley. + </p> + <p> + Ascending the hill, they found that, while the flames had overleapt the + City wall from Ludgate to Newgate in its progress west, the wall had + proved an effective barrier from the sharp corner behind Christchurch up + to Aldersgate and thence up to Cripplegate, which was the farthest limit + reached by the fire to the north. To the east, the City had fared better. + By the river, indeed, the destruction was complete as far as the Tower. + Mark Lane, however, stood, and north of this the line of destruction swept + westward to Leaden Hall, a massive structure at the entrance to the street + that took its name from it, and proved a bulwark against the flames. From + this point, the line of devastated ground swept round by the eastern end + of Throgmorton Street to the northern end of Basinghall Street. + </p> + <p> + Cyril remained with the sailors for two days longer, during which time + they were kept at work beating out the embers of the fire. In this they + were aided by a heavy fall of rain, which put an end to all fear of the + flames springing up again. + </p> + <p> + "There can be no need for you to remain longer with us, Sir Cyril," + Captain Warncliffe said, at the end of the second day. "I shall have + pleasure in reporting to the Duke of Albemarle the good services that you + have rendered. Doubtless we shall remain on duty here for some time, for + we may have, for aught I know, to aid in the clearing away of some of the + ruins; but, at any rate, there can be no occasion for you to stay longer + with us." + </p> + <p> + Cyril afterwards learnt that the sailors and dockyard men were, on the + following day, sent back to Chatham. The fire had rendered so great a + number of men homeless and without means of subsistence, that there was an + abundant force on hand for the clearing away of ruins. Great numbers were + employed by the authorities, while many of the merchants and traders + engaged parties to clear away the ruins of their dwellings, in order to + get at the cellars below, in which they had, as soon as the danger from + fire was perceived, stowed away the main bulk of their goods. As soon as + he was released from duty, Cyril made his way to the Tower, and, hiring a + boat, was rowed to the <i>Good Venture</i>. + </p> + <p> + The shipping presented a singular appearance, their sides being blistered, + and in many places completely stripped of their paint, while in some cases + the spars were scorched, and the sails burnt away. There was lively + satisfaction at his appearance, as he stepped on to the deck of the <i>Good + Venture</i>, for, until he did so, he had been unrecognised, so begrimed + with smoke and dust was he. + </p> + <p> + "We have been wondering about you," Captain Dave said, as he shook him by + the hand, "but I can scarce say we had become uneasy. We learnt that a + large body of seamen and others were at work blowing up houses, and as you + had gone to offer your services we doubted not that you were employed with + them. Truly you must have been having a rough time of it, for not only are + you dirtier than any scavenger, but you look utterly worn out and + fatigued." + </p> + <p> + "It was up-hill work the first twenty-four hours, for we worked + unceasingly, and worked hard, too, I can assure you, and that well-nigh + smothered with smoke and dust. Since then, our work has been more easy, + but no less dirty. In the three days I have not had twelve hours' sleep + altogether." + </p> + <p> + "I will get a tub of hot water placed in your cabin," Captain Watson said, + "and should advise you, when you get out from it, to turn into your bunk + at once. No one shall go near you in the morning until you wake of your + own accord." + </p> + <p> + Cyril was, however, down to breakfast. + </p> + <p> + "Now tell us all about the fire," Nellie said, when they had finished the + meal. + </p> + <p> + "I have nothing to tell you, for I know nothing," Cyril replied. "Our work + was simply pulling down and blowing up houses. I had scarce time so much + as to look at the fire. However, as I have since been working all round + its course, I can tell you exactly how far it spread." + </p> + <p> + When he brought his story to a conclusion, he said,— + </p> + <p> + "And now, Captain Dave, what are you thinking of doing?" + </p> + <p> + "In the first place, I am going ashore to look at the old house. As soon + as I can get men, I shall clear the ground, and begin to rebuild it. I + have enough laid by to start me again. I should be like a fish out of + water with nothing to see to. I have the most valuable part of my stock + still on hand here on deck, and if the cellar has proved staunch my loss + in goods will be small indeed, for the anchors and chains in the yard will + have suffered no damage. But even if the cellar has caved in, and its + contents are destroyed, and if, when I have rebuilt my house, I find I + have not enough left to replenish my stock, I am sure that I can get + credit from the rope- and sail-makers, and iron-masters with whom I deal." + </p> + <p> + "Do not trouble yourself about that, Captain Dave," Cyril said. "You came + to my help last time, and it will be my turn this time. I am sure that I + shall have no difficulty in getting any monies that may be required from + Mr. Goldsworthy, and there is nothing that will give me more pleasure than + to see you established again in the place that was the first where I ever + felt I had a home." + </p> + <p> + "I hope that it will not be needed, lad," Captain Dave said, shaking his + hand warmly, "but if it should, I will not hesitate to accept your offer + in the spirit in which it is made, and thus add one more to the + obligations that I am under to you." + </p> + <p> + Cyril went ashore with Captain Dave and John Wilkes. The wall of the yard + was, of course, uninjured, but the gate was burnt down. The store-house, + which was of wood, had entirely disappeared, and the back wall of the + house had fallen over it and the yard. The entrance to the cellar, + therefore, could not be seen, and, as yet, the heat from the fallen bricks + was too great to attempt to clear them away to get at it. + </p> + <p> + That night, however, it rained heavily, and in the morning Captain Watson + took a party of sailors ashore, and these succeeded in clearing away the + rubbish sufficiently to get to the entrance of the cellar. The door was + covered by an iron plate, and although the wood behind this was charred it + had not caught fire, and on getting it open it was found that the contents + of the cellar were uninjured. + </p> + <p> + In order to prevent marauders from getting at it before preparations could + be made for rebuilding, the rubbish was again thrown in so as to + completely conceal the entrance. On returning on board there was a + consultation on the future, held in the cabin. Captain Dave at once said + that he and John Wilkes must remain in town to make arrangements for the + rebuilding and to watch the performance of the work. Cyril warmly pressed + Mrs. Dowsett and Nellie to come down with him to Norfolk until the house + was ready to receive them, but both were in favour of remaining in London, + and it was settled that, next day, they should go down to Stepney, hire a + house and store-room there, and remove thither their goods on board the + ship, and the contents of the cellar. + </p> + <p> + There was some little difficulty in getting a house, as so many were + seeking for lodgings, but at last they came upon a widow who was willing + to let a house, upon the proviso that she was allowed to retain one room + for her own occupation. This being settled, Cyril that evening returned to + his lodging, and the next day rode down to Norfolk. There he remained + until the middle of May, when he received a letter from Captain Dave, + saying that his house was finished, and that they should move into it in a + fortnight, and that they all earnestly hoped he would be present. As he + had already been thinking of going up to London for a time, he decided to + accept the invitation. + </p> + <p> + By this time he had made the acquaintance of all the surrounding gentry, + and felt perfectly at home at Upmead. He rode frequently into Norwich, + and, whenever he did so, paid a visit to Mr. Harvey, whose wife had died + in January, never having completely recovered from the shock that she had + received in London. Mr. Harvey himself had aged much; he still took a + great interest in the welfare of the tenants of Upmead, and in Cyril's + proposals for the improvement of their homes, and was pleased to see how + earnestly he had taken up the duties of his new life. He spoke + occasionally of his son, of whose death he felt convinced. + </p> + <p> + "I have never been able to obtain any news of him," he often said, "and + assuredly I should have heard of him had he been alive. + </p> + <p> + "It would ease my mind to know the truth," he said, one day. "It troubles + me to think that, if alive, he is assuredly pursuing evil courses, and + that he will probably end his days on a gallows. That he will repent, and + turn to better courses, I have now no hope whatever. Unless he be living + by roguery, he would, long ere this, have written, professing repentance, + even if he did not feel it, and begging for assistance. It troubles me + much that I can find out nothing for certain of him." + </p> + <p> + "Would it be a relief to you to know surely that he was dead?" Cyril + asked. + </p> + <p> + "I would rather know that he was dead than feel, as I do, that if alive, + he is going on sinning. One can mourn for the dead as David mourned for + Absalom, and trust that their sins may be forgiven them; but, uncertain as + I am of his death, I cannot so mourn, since it may be that he still + lives." + </p> + <p> + "Then, sir, I am in a position to set your mind at rest. I have known for + a long time that he died of the Plague, but I have kept it from you, + thinking that it was best you should still think that he might be living. + He fell dead beside me on the very day that I sickened of the Plague, and, + indeed, it was from him that I took it." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey remained silent for a minute or two. + </p> + <p> + "'Tis better so," he said solemnly. "The sins of youth may be forgiven, + but, had he lived, his whole course might have been wicked. How know you + that it was he who gave you the Plague?" + </p> + <p> + "I met him in the street. He was tottering in his walk, and, as he came + up, he stumbled, and grasped me to save himself. I held him for a moment, + and then he slipped from my arms and fell on the pavement, and died." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harvey looked keenly at Cyril, and was about to ask a question, but + checked himself. + </p> + <p> + "He is dead," he said. "God rest his soul, and forgive him his sins! + Henceforth I shall strive to forget that he ever lived to manhood, and + seek to remember him as he was when a child." + </p> + <p> + Then he held out his hand to Cyril, to signify that he would fain be + alone. + </p> + <p> + On arriving in London, Cyril took up his abode at his former lodgings, and + the next day at twelve o'clock, the hour appointed in a letter he found + awaiting him on his arrival, he arrived in Tower Street, having ridden + through the City. An army of workmen, who had come up from all parts of + the country, were engaged in rebuilding the town. In the main + thoroughfares many of the houses were already finished, and the shops + re-opened. In other parts less progress had been made, as the traders were + naturally most anxious to resume their business, and most able to pay for + speed. + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave's was one of the first houses completed in Tower Street, but + there were many others far advanced in progress. The front differed + materially from that of the old house, in which each story had projected + beyond the one below it. Inside, however, there was but little change in + its appearance, except that the rooms were somewhat more lofty, and that + there were no heavy beams across the ceilings. Captain Dave and his family + had moved in that morning. + </p> + <p> + "It does not look quite like the old place," Mrs. Dowsett said, after the + first greetings. + </p> + <p> + "Not quite," Cyril agreed. "The new furniture, of course, gives it a + different appearance as yet; but one will soon get accustomed to that, and + you will quickly make it home-like again. I see you have the bits of + furniture you saved in their old corners." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; and it will make a great difference when they get all my curiosities + up in their places again," Captain Dave put in. "We pulled them down + anyhow, and some of them will want glueing up a bit. And so your fighting + is over, Cyril?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it looks like it. The Dutch have evidently had enough of it. They + asked for peace, and as both parties consented to the King of Sweden being + mediator, and our representatives and those of Holland are now settling + affairs at Breda, peace may be considered as finally settled. We have only + two small squadrons now afloat; the rest are all snugly laid up. I trust + that there is no chance of another war between the two nations for years + to come." + </p> + <p> + "I hope not, Cyril. But De Witte is a crafty knave, and is ever in close + alliance with Louis. Were it not for French influence the Prince of Orange + would soon oust him from the head of affairs." + </p> + <p> + "I should think he would not have any power for mischief in the future," + Cyril said. "It was he who brought on the last war, and, although it has + cost us much, it has cost the Dutch very much more, and the loss of her + commerce has well-nigh brought Holland to ruin. Besides, the last victory + we won must have lowered their national pride greatly." + </p> + <p> + "You have not heard the reports that are about, then?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I have heard no news whatever. It takes a long time for it to travel + down to Norwich, and I have seen no one since I came up to town last + night." + </p> + <p> + "Well, there is a report that a Dutch Fleet of eighty sail has put to sea. + It may be that 'tis but bravado to show that, though they have begged for + peace, 'tis not because they are in no condition to fight. I know not how + this may be, but it is certain that for the last three days the Naval + people have been very busy, and that powder is being sent down to Chatham. + As for the Fleet, small as it is, it is doubtful whether it would fight, + for the men are in a veritable state of mutiny, having received no pay for + many months. Moreover, several ships were but yesterday bought by + Government, for what purpose it is not known, but it is conjectured they + are meant for fire-ships." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot but think that it is, as you say, a mere piece of bravado on the + part of the Dutch, Captain Dave. They could never be so treacherous as to + attack us when peace is well-nigh concluded, but, hurt as their pride must + be by the defeat we gave them, it is not unnatural they should wish to + show that they can still put a brave fleet on the seas, and are not driven + to make peace because they could not, if need be, continue the war." + </p> + <p> + "And now I have a piece of news for you. We are going to have a wedding + here before long." + </p> + <p> + "I am right glad to hear it," Cyril said heartily. "And who is the happy + man, Nellie?" he asked, turning towards where she had been standing the + moment before. But Nellie had fled the moment her father had opened his + lips. + </p> + <p> + "It is Frank Watson," her father said. "A right good lad; and her mother + and I are well pleased with her choice." + </p> + <p> + "I thought that he was very attentive the few days we were on board his + father's ship," Cyril said. "I am not surprised to hear the news." + </p> + <p> + "They have been two voyages since then, and while the <i>Good Venture</i> + was in the Pool, Master Frank spent most of his time down at Stepney, and + it was settled a fortnight since. My old friend Watson is as pleased as I + am. And the best part of the business is that Frank is going to give up + the sea and become my partner. His father owns the <i>Good Venture</i>, + and, being a careful man, has laid by a round sum, and he settled to give + him fifteen hundred pounds, which he will put into the business." + </p> + <p> + "That is a capital plan, Captain Dave. It will be an excellent thing for + you to have so young and active a partner." + </p> + <p> + "Watson has bought the house down at Stepney that we have been living in, + and Frank and Nellie are going to settle there, and Watson will make it + his headquarters when his ship is in port, and will, I have no doubt, take + up his moorings there, when he gives up the sea. The wedding is to be in a + fortnight's time, for Watson has set his heart on seeing them spliced + before he sails again, and I see no reason for delay. You must come to the + wedding, of course, Cyril. Indeed, I don't think Nellie would consent to + be married if you were not there. The girl has often spoken of you lately. + You see, now that she really knows what love is, and has a quiet, happy + life to look forward to, she feels more than ever the service you did her, + and the escape she had. She told the whole story to Frank before she said + yes, when he asked her to be his wife, and, of course, he liked her no + less for it, though I think it would go hard with that fellow if he ever + met him." + </p> + <p> + "The fellow died of the Plague, Captain Dave. His last action was to try + and revenge himself on me by giving me the infection, for, meeting me in + the streets, he threw his arms round me and exclaimed, 'I have given you + the Plague!' They were the last words he ever spoke, for he gave a hideous + laugh, and then dropped down dead. However, he spoke truly, for that night + I sickened of it." + </p> + <p> + "Then your kindness to Nellie well-nigh cost you your life," Mrs. Dowsett + said, laying her hand on his shoulder, while the tears stood in her eyes. + "And you never told us this before!" + </p> + <p> + "There was nothing to tell," Cyril replied. "If I had not caught it from + him, I should have, doubtless, taken it from someone else, for I was + constantly in the way of it, and could hardly have hoped to escape an + attack. Now, Captain Dave, let us go downstairs, and see the store." + </p> + <p> + "John Wilkes and the two boys are at work there," the Captain said, as he + went downstairs, "and we open our doors tomorrow. I have hurried on the + house as fast as possible, and as no others in my business have yet + opened, I look to do a thriving trade at once. Watson will send all his + friends here, and as there is scarce a captain who goes in or out of port + but knows Frank, I consider that our new partner will greatly extend the + business." + </p> + <p> + Captain Watson and Frank came in at supper-time, and, after spending a + pleasant evening, Cyril returned to his lodgings in the Strand. The next + day he was walking near Whitehall when a carriage dashed out at full + speed, and, as it came along, he caught sight of the Duke of Albemarle, + who looked in a state of strange confusion. His wig was awry, his coat was + off, and his face was flushed and excited. As his eye fell on Cyril, he + shouted out to the postillions to stop. As they pulled up, he shouted,— + </p> + <p> + "Jump in, Sir Cyril! Jump in, for your life." + </p> + <p> + Astonished at this address, Cyril ran to the door, opened it, and jumped + in, and the Duke shouted to the postillions to go on. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think, sir?—what do you think?" roared the Duke. "Those + treacherous scoundrels, the Dutch, have appeared with a great Fleet of + seventy men-of-war, besides fire-ships, off Sheerness, this morning at + daybreak, and have taken the place, and Chatham lies open to them. We have + been bamboozled and tricked. While the villains were pretending they were + all for peace, they have been secretly fitting out, and there they are at + Sheerness. A mounted messenger brought in the news, but ten minutes ago." + </p> + <p> + "Have they taken Sheerness, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; there were but six guns mounted on the fort, and no preparations + made. The ships that were there did nothing. The rascals are in mutiny—and + small wonder, when they can get no pay; the money voted for them being + wasted by the Court. It is enough to drive one wild with vexation, and, + had I my will, there are a dozen men, whose names are the foremost in the + country, whom I would hang up with my own hands. The wind is from the + east, and if they go straight up the Medway they may be there this + afternoon, and have the whole of our ships at their mercy. It is enough to + make Blake turn in his grave that such an indignity should be offered us, + though it be but the outcome of treachery on the part of the Dutch, and of + gross negligence on ours. But if they give us a day or two to prepare, we + will, at least, give them something to do before they can carry out their + design, and, if one could but rely on the sailors, we might even beat them + off; but it is doubtful whether the knaves will fight. The forts are + unfinished, though the money was voted for them three years since. And all + this is not the worst of it, for, after they have taken Chatham, there is + naught to prevent their coming up to London. We have had plague and we + have had fire, and to be bombarded by the Dutchmen would be the crowning + blow, and it would be like to bring about another revolution in England." + </p> + <p> + They posted down to Chatham as fast as the horses could gallop. The + instant the news had arrived, the Duke had sent off a man, on horseback, + to order horses to be in readiness to change at each posting station. Not + a minute, therefore, was lost. In a little over two hours from the time of + leaving Whitehall, they drove into the dockyard. + </p> + <p> + "Where is Sir Edward Spragge?" the Duke shouted, as he leapt from the + carriage. + </p> + <p> + "He has gone down to the new forts, your Grace," an officer replied. + </p> + <p> + "Have a gig prepared at once, without the loss of a moment," the Duke + said. "What is being done?" he asked another officer, as the first ran + off. + </p> + <p> + "Sir Edward has taken four frigates down to the narrow part of the river, + sir, and preparations have been made for placing a great chain there. + Several of the ships are being towed out into the river, and are to be + sunk in the passage." + </p> + <p> + "Any news of the Dutch having left Sheerness?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; a shallop rowed up at noon, but was chased back again by one of + our pinnaces." + </p> + <p> + "That is better than I had hoped. Come, come, we shall make a fight for it + yet," and he strode away towards the landing. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I accompany you, sir?" Cyril asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes. There is nothing for you to do until we see exactly how things + stand. I shall use you as my staff officer—that is, if you are + willing, Sir Cyril. I have carried you off without asking whether you + consented or no; but, knowing your spirit and quickness, I felt sure you + would be of use." + </p> + <p> + "I am at your service altogether," Cyril said, "and am glad indeed that + your Grace encountered me, for I should have been truly sorry to have been + idle at such a time." + </p> + <p> + An eight-oared gig was already at the stairs, and they were rowed rapidly + down the river. They stopped at Upnor Castle, and found that Major Scott, + who was in command there, was hard at work mounting cannon and putting the + place in a posture of defence. + </p> + <p> + "You will have more men from London by to-morrow night, at the latest," + the Duke said, "and powder and shot in abundance was sent off yesterday. + We passed a train on our way down, and I told them to push on with all + speed. As the Dutch have not moved yet, they cannot be here until the + afternoon of to-morrow, and, like enough, will not attack until next day, + for they must come slowly, or they will lose some of their ships on the + sands. We will try to get up a battery opposite, so as to aid you with a + cross fire. I am going down to see Sir Edward Spragge now." + </p> + <p> + Taking their places in the boat again, they rowed round the horseshoe + curve down to Gillingham, and then along to the spot where the frigates + were moored. At the sharp bend lower down here the Duke found the Admiral, + and they held a long consultation together. It was agreed that the chain + should be placed somewhat higher up, where a lightly-armed battery on + either side would afford some assistance, that behind the chain the three + ships, the <i>Matthias</i>, the <i>Unity</i>, and the <i>Charles V.</i>, + all prizes taken from the Dutch, should be moored, and that the <i>Jonathan</i> + and <i>Fort of Honinggen</i>—also a Dutch prize—should be also + posted there. + </p> + <p> + Having arranged this, the Duke was rowed back to Chatham, there to see + about getting some of the great ships removed from their moorings off + Gillingham, up the river. To his fury, he found that, of all the eighteen + hundred men employed in the yard, not more than half a dozen had remained + at their work, the rest being, like all the townsmen, occupied in removing + their goods in great haste. Even the frigates that were armed had but a + third, at most, of their crews on board, so many having deserted owing to + the backwardness of their pay. + </p> + <p> + That night, Sir W. Coventry, Sir W. Penn, Lord Brounker, and other + officers and officials of the Admiralty, came down from London. Some of + these, especially Lord Brounker, had a hot time of it with the Duke, who + rated them roundly for the state of things which prevailed, telling the + latter that he was the main cause of all the misfortunes that might occur, + owing to his having dismantled and disarmed all the great ships. In spite + of the efforts of all these officers, but little could be done, owing to + the want of hands, and to the refusal of the dockyard men, and most of the + sailors, to do anything. A small battery of sandbags was, however, erected + opposite Upnor, and a few guns placed in position there. + </p> + <p> + Several ships were sunk in the channel above Upnor, and a few of those + lying off Gillingham were towed up. Little help was sent down from London, + for the efforts of the authorities were directed wholly to the defence of + the Thames. The train-bands were all under arms, fire-ships were being + fitted out and sent down to Gravesend, and batteries erected there and at + Tilbury, while several ships were sunk in the channel. + </p> + <p> + The Dutch remained at Sheerness from the 7th to the 12th, and had it not + been for the misconduct of the men, Chatham could have been put into a + good state for defence. As it was, but little could be effected; and when, + on the 12th, the Dutch Fleet were seen coming up the river, the chances of + successful resistance were small. + </p> + <p> + The fight commenced by a Dutch frigate, commanded by Captain Brakell, + advancing against the chain. Carried up by a strong tide and east wind the + ship struck it with such force that it at once gave way. The English + frigates, but weakly manned, could offer but slight resistance, and the <i>Jonathan</i> + was boarded and captured by Brakell. Following his frigate were a host of + fire-ships, which at once grappled with the defenders. The <i>Matthias, + Unity, Charles V.</i>, and <i>Fort of Honinggen</i> were speedily in + flames. The light batteries on the shore were silenced by the guns of the + Fleet, which then anchored. The next day, six of their men-of-war, with + five fire-ships, advanced, exchanged broadsides, as they went along, with + the <i>Royal Oak</i> and presently engaged Upnor. They were received with + so hot a fire from the Castle, and from the battery opposite, where Sir + Edward Spragge had stationed himself, that, after a time, they gave up the + design of ascending to the dockyard, which at that time occupied a + position higher up the river than at present. + </p> + <p> + The tide was beginning to slacken, and they doubtless feared that a number + of fire-barges might be launched at them did they venture higher up. On + the way back, they launched a fire-ship at the <i>Royal Oak</i>, which was + commanded by Captain Douglas. The flames speedily communicated to the + ship, and the crew took to the boats and rowed ashore. Captain Douglas + refused to leave his vessel, and perished in the flames. The report given + by the six men-of-war decided the Dutch not to attempt anything further + against Chatham. On the 14th, they set fire to the hulks, the <i>Loyal + London</i> and the <i>Great James</i>, and carried off the hulk of the <i>Royal + Charles</i>, after the English had twice tried to destroy her by fire. As + this was the ship in which the Duke of Albemarle, then General Monk, had + brought the King over to England from Holland, her capture was considered + a special triumph for the Dutch and a special dishonour to us. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Albemarle had left Chatham before the Dutch came up. As the + want of crews prevented his being of any use there, and he saw that Sir + Edward Spragge would do all that was possible in defence of the place, he + posted back to London, where his presence was urgently required, a + complete panic reigning. Crowds assembled at Whitehall, and insulted the + King and his ministers as the cause of the present misfortunes, while at + Deptford and Wapping, the sailors and their wives paraded the streets, + shouting that the ill-treatment of our sailors had brought these things + about, and so hostile were their manifestations that the officials of the + Admiralty scarce dared show themselves in the streets. + </p> + <p> + Cyril had remained at Chatham, the Duke having recommended him to Sir + Edward Spragge, and he, with some other gentlemen and a few sailors, had + manned the battery opposite Upnor. + </p> + <p> + The great proportion of the Dutch ships were still at the Nore, as it + would have been dangerous to have hazarded so great a fleet in the narrow + water of the Medway. As it was, two of their men-of-war, on the way back + from Chatham, ran ashore, and had to be burnt. They had also six + fire-ships burnt, and lost over a hundred and fifty men. + </p> + <p> + Leaving Admiral Van Ness with part of the Fleet in the mouth of the + Thames, De Ruyter sailed first for Harwich, where he attempted to land + with sixteen hundred men in boats, supported by the guns of the Fleet. The + boats, however, failed to effect a landing, being beaten off, with + considerable loss, by the county Militia; and Ruyter then sailed for + Portsmouth, where he also failed. He then went west to Torbay, where he + was likewise repulsed, and then returned to the mouth of the Thames. + </p> + <p> + On July 23rd, Van Ness, with twenty-five men-of-war, sailed up the Hope, + where Sir Edward Spragge had now hoisted his flag on board a squadron of + eighteen ships, of whom five were frigates and the rest fire-ships. A + sharp engagement ensued, but the wind was very light, and the English, by + towing their fire-ships, managed to lay them alongside the Dutch + fire-ships, and destroyed twelve of these with a loss of only six English + ships. But, the wind then rising, Sir Edward retired from the Hope to + Gravesend, where he was protected by the guns at Tilbury. + </p> + <p> + The next day, being joined by Sir Joseph Jordan, with a few small ships, + he took the offensive, and destroyed the last fire-ship that the Dutch had + left, and compelled the men-of-war to retire. Sir Edward followed them + with his little squadron, and Van Ness, as he retired down the river, was + met by five frigates and fourteen fire-ships from Harwich. These boldly + attacked him. Two of the Dutch men-of-war narrowly escaped being burnt, + another was forced ashore and greatly damaged, and the whole of the Dutch + Fleet was compelled to bear away. + </p> + <p> + While these events had been happening in the Thames, the negotiations at + Breda had continued, and, just as the Dutch retreated, the news came that + Peace had been signed. The Dutch, on their side, were satisfied with the + success with which they had closed the war, while England was, at the + moment, unable to continue it, and the King, seeing the intense + unpopularity that had been excited against him by the affair at Chatham, + was glad to ratify the Peace, especially as we thereby retained possession + of several islands we had taken in the West Indies from the Dutch, and it + was manifest that Spain was preparing to join the coalition of France and + Holland against us. + </p> + <p> + A Peace concluded under such circumstances was naturally but a short one. + When the war was renewed, three years later, the French were in alliance + with us, and, after several more desperate battles, in which no great + advantages were gained on either side, the Dutch were so exhausted and + impoverished by the loss of trade, that a final Peace was arranged on + terms far more advantageous to us than those secured by the Treaty of + 1667. The De Wittes, the authors of the previous wars, had both been + killed in a popular tumult. The Prince of Orange was at the head of the + State, and the fact that France and Spain were both hostile to Holland had + reawakened the feeling of England in favour of the Protestant Republic, + and the friendship between the two nations has never since been broken. + </p> + <p> + Cyril took no part in the last war against the Dutch. He, like the + majority of the nation, was opposed to it, and, although willing to give + his life in defence of his country when attacked, felt it by no means his + duty to do so when we were aiding the designs of France in crushing a + brave enemy. Such was in fact the result of the war; for although peace + was made on even terms, the wars of Holland with England and the ruin + caused to her trade thereby, inflicted a blow upon the Republic from which + she never recovered. From being the great rival of England, both on the + sea and in her foreign commerce, her prosperity and power dwindled until + she ceased altogether to be a factor in European affairs. + </p> + <p> + After the Peace of Breda was signed, Cyril went down to Upmead, where, for + the next four years, he devoted himself to the management of his estate. + His friendship with Mr. Harvey grew closer and warmer, until the latter + came to consider him in really the light of a son; and when he died, in + 1681, it was found that his will was unaltered, and that, with the + exception of legacies to many of his old employés at his factory, the + whole of his property was left to Cyril. The latter received a good offer + for the tanyard, and, upon an estate next to his own coming shortly + afterwards into the market, he purchased it, and thus the Upmead estates + became as extensive as they had been before the time of his ancestor, who + had so seriously diminished them during the reign of Elizabeth. + </p> + <p> + His friendship with the family of the Earl of Wisbech had remained + unaltered, and he had every year paid them a visit, either at Wisbech or + at Sevenoaks. A year after Mr. Harvey's death, he married Dorothy, who had + previously refused several flattering offers. + </p> + <p> + Captain Dave and his wife lived to a good old age. The business had + largely increased, owing to the energy of their son-in-law, who had, with + his wife and children, taken up his abode in the next house to theirs, + which had been bought to meet the extension of their business. John + Wilkes, at the death of Captain Dave, declined Cyril's pressing offer to + make his home with him. + </p> + <p> + "It would never do, Sir Cyril," he said. "I should be miserable out of the + sight of ships, and without a place where I could meet seafaring men, and + smoke my pipe, and listen to their yarns." + </p> + <p> + He therefore remained with Frank Watson, nominally in charge of the + stores, but doing, in fact, as little as he chose until, long past the + allotted age of man, he passed quietly away. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of When London Burned, by G. A. 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