Your unexpected presence will only make this
difference, which is, that I must previously obtain your lordship's
assurance that those with you will allow me and my men to quit her
without molestation, after we have performed this service."
"I pledge you my word, Mr Pickersgill, and I thank you into the bargain.
I trust you will allow me to offer some remuneration."
"Most certainly not, my lord."
"At all events, Mr Pickersgill, if, at any other time, I can be of
service, you may command me."
Pickersgill made no reply.
"Surely, Mr Pickersgill,--"
"Pickersgill! how I hate that name!" said the smuggler, musing. "I beg
your lordship's pardon--if I may require your assistance for any of my
unfortunate companions--"
"Not for yourself, Mr Pickersgill?" said Mrs Lascelles.
"Madam, I smuggle no more."
"For the pleasure I feel in hearing that resolution, Mr Pickersgill,"
said Cecilia, "take my hand and thanks."
"And mine," said Mrs Lascelles, half crying.
"And mine, too," said Lord B., rising up.
Pickersgill passed the back of his hand across his eyes, turned round,
and left the cabin.
"I'm so happy!" said Mrs Lascelles, bursting into tears.
"He's a magnificent fellow," observed Lord B. "Come, let us all go on
deck."
"You have not seen my aunt, papa."
"True; I'll go in to her, and then follow you."
The ladies went upon deck. Cecilia entered into conversation with Mr
Stewart, giving him a narrative of what had happened. Mrs Lascelles sat
abaft at the taffrail, with her pretty hand supporting her cheek,
looking very much _a la Juliette_.
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