The river at this point was about one mile across, and they started to cross one mile above the island. The wind was in the east, and the float made slow progress. The strong ebb tide carried them down stream so that they barely cleared the rift, and placed them nearly east of the island. Rolla sniffed the wind from the island and goes to the rear of the float and whines. The dog winds something on the island, said Cahoonshee. But he hasn’t given the Amy bark, replied Drake. Bang! went a gun on board of the Reindeer, and a cannon ball came skipping over the water, passing directly ahead of the float. What does that mean? inquired Drake. That means stop, replied Cahoonshee. Rolla gave three barks, sprang into the water, and swam toward the island. That is the Amy bark, exclaimed Drake. Let us paddle after him. Put down the paddle, boy, or they will blow us out of the water. Bang! The ball is seen ricocheting on the water in a direct line with the float, and struck the end of one of the forward logs, and knocked off a sliver that struck Cahoonshee and carried him overboard. Quick caught him by the hair and pulled him back. Don’t move a paddle, he said. If you do, the third shot will tear us to pieces. But just keep still and we are safe. See, they are coming after us, and then they will tell us what they want. Perhaps they will take us on board of the ship. By this time the ship’s boat had nearly reached the float. Walter stood in the bow with his sword drawn. Lieutenant Powers was at the helm, and between them stood a company of armed marines. Keep quiet, said Cahoonshee, I will answer all questions. Who commands this float? inquired Lieutenant Wallace. I do, replied Cahoonshee. What is your wish? We have orders to bring you on board of the ship. By whose orders? By the orders of Captain Davis. Captain Davis shall be obeyed, said Cahoonshee. Then hand in your guns and consider yourselves prisoners for the present. The guns and other articles were placed in the boat. Cahoonshee stepped on board and was conducted to the stern. The Quicks were seated at mid-ship, and Drake at the bow. I think that we have met before, said Cahoonshee to Lieutenant Powers. I think not, replied Powers. You was a mere boy then—the son of Admiral Powers. Was you acquainted with my father! Before the question could be answered Cahoonshee fainted. Drake instantly sprang to his assistance, but was restrained by the sailors. Gentlemen, said Drake, I do not know for what crime you have shot this old man, but I beg of you to let me take care of him. See—he is dying. Let me hold his head. This appeal touched the sympathies of the officers, and Drake was permitted to go to his assistance. What caused this wound on his head? asked the Lieutenant. The shot from the ship, replied Drake.