"And now,
gentlemen," he concluded, "I expect you both to be
particularly on the alert to-night. The absence of that
fishing-party distresses me, and I would give much that
they were back."
"Captain Headley," said the ensign, quickly and almost
beseechingly, "let me pick out a dozen men from the
company, and I pledge myself to restore the party before
mid-day to-morrow. Nay, sir," seeing strong surprise and
disapproval on the countenance of the commandant, "I am
ready to forfeit my commission if I fail--"
"Are you mad, Mr. Ronayne, or do you suppose that I am
mad enough to entertain such a proposition, and thus
weaken my force still more? Forfeit your commission if
you fail! Why, sir, you would deserve to forfeit your
commission, if you even succeeded in any thing so wholly
at variance with military prudence. Gentlemen, recollect
what I have said--I expect you to use the utmost vigilance
to-night, and, Mr. Elmsley, fail not instantly to report
the fishing-boat." Thus enjoining, he passed slowly on
to his quarters.
"D--n your military prudence, and d--n your pompous
cold-bloodedness!" muttered the fiery ensign between his
teeth--scarcely waiting until his captain was out of
hearing.
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