Presently Hugh succeeded in striking a light--no easy task in the
days of flint and steel--and the candles being lighted, they sat
down to consider the position.
"We are prisoners, Master Rupert; no doubt about that."
"None at all, Hugh. The question is what do they mean to do with
us. We've got food enough here to last us with ease for a week; and
with our pistols and swords, to say nothing of the duck gun, we
could hold this cabin against any number."
Presently they heard the men on deck hailing another boat.
"I suppose that is that rascal Fulke," Rupert said. "I hope that I
am not quarrelsome by disposition, Hugh; but the next time I meet
that fellow I will, if time and place be suitable, come to a
reckoning with him."
There was a movement above, and then a bump came against the side.
The other boat had come up.
"Now we shall see what they are up to."
Nothing, however, came of it. There was some low talking above, and
some coarse laughter.
"Master Rupert," Hugh exclaimed suddenly, "I am standing in water!"
Rupert had half lain down again, but he leapt up now.
"They have scuttled the boat, Hugh, and mean to drown us like rats;
the cowards."
"What's to be done now, Master Rupert?" Hugh asked.
"Let us try the door, Hugh."
A single effort showed that they were powerless here. The door was
strong, it was fastened outside, and it was heavily weighted with
coils of rope and other substances.
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