We had now been in Hong Kong several weeks, and it was time for the “old man” to think of deep water again. Accordingly, on Tuesday, February 28th, we commenced preparations for sea—for our _last_ cruise. Our provisions, water and all, were on board, and all that was wanting was the word, and the anchor would soon be apeak. A little incident transpired, however, which served to detain us a day longer. Several Chinese merchants were on board, showing their goods and doing their best endeavors to effect sales. They knew, from seeing the “Blue Peter” at the fore, that we were to sail on that day, and they were off in great numbers in consequence. Among the rest were several shoemakers, who appeared _determined_ to sell. After a good deal of bargaining and bantering, the chief mate ordered all to leave _instanter_. In collecting their shoes preparatory to leaving, one of them discovered, or supposed he discovered, a pair missing, for which he had received no pay. This put him in a great rage, and he left muttering vengeance on the “’parme whaler,” as he termed it. He soon returned, however, accompanied by a policeman, who explained what he came for. The Chinaman charged one of the crew with stealing them, whose chest was immediately searched, but no shoes were found. There was now no remedy but the man must go on shore before a magistrate. In company with the chief mate, the man proceeded to the magistrate’s office, where the Chinaman was called upon to make his statement. After having sworn him as to the truth of it, the _prisoner_ was put upon the _witness’_ stand and sworn. On being asked if he saw the Chinaman on board the ship with shoes for sale, he answered “yes.” “Did you take any of those shoes unlawfully?” was the next question. “No, sir,” was the answer. “Did you _see_ any person take any shoes unlawfully from the plaintiff?” “No, sir.” The magistrate now turned to the Celestial, and sternly remarked: “Look here, John Chinaman, if you ever come before me again with such a story, I will send you to the ‘lock-up’ for two years,” and then dismissed the case. The following day, March 1st, we took our anchor from China soil, bade adieu to Hong Kong, and with light hearts made sail for Japan. The pilot remained with us until the day following, when we took leave of him with three hearty cheers, with three more for a “lucky cruise.” CHAPTER XXVI.