boat's crew (at their head the faithful though ferocious William), and demanded to see the Mayor, who came out of his office. "Dost know the name of yon ship, Mayor?" asked Boldheart fiercely.[Pg 26] [Pg 26] "Dost Know The Name Of Yon Ship, Mayor?" "No," said the Mayor, rubbing his eyes, which he[Pg 27] could scarce believe when he saw the goodly vessel riding at anchor. [Pg 27] "She is named the Beauty," said the captain. "Hah!" exclaimed the Mayor, with a start. "And you, then, are Captain Boldheart?" "The same." A pause ensued. The Mayor trembled. "Now, Mayor," said the captain, "choose. Help me to my Bride, or be bombarded."[Pg 28] [Pg 28] Standing Sentry Over Him The Mayor begged for two hours' grace, in which to make inquiries respecting the young lady. Boldheart accorded him but one; and during that one placed William Boozey sentry over him, with a drawn sword and instructions to accompany him wherever he went, and to run him through the body if he showed a sign of playing false. At the end of the hour, the Mayor re-appeared more dead than alive, closely waited on by Boozey more alive than dead. "Captain," said the Mayor, "I have ascertained that the young lady is going to bathe. Even now she waits her turn for a machine. The tide is low, though rising.[Pg 29] I, in one of our town-boats, shall not be suspected. When she comes forth in her bathing-dress into the shallow water from behind the hood of the machine, my boat shall intercept her and prevent her return. Do you the rest." [Pg 29] "Mayor," returned Capt. Boldheart, "thou hast saved thy town."
Prev.
Back
Top