And, after all, I for one am not surprised at the report gaining credence.’ ‘How so, sir?’ asked I indignantly. ‘Simply that when a promise of fifteen thousand men dwindles down to a force of eight hundred; when a hundred thousand stand of arms come to be represented by a couple of thousand; when an expedition, pledged by a Government, has fallen down to a marauding party; when Hoche or Kléber---- But never mind, I always swore that if you sent but a corporal’s guard that I ‘d go with them.’ A musket-shot here was heard, followed by a sharp volley and a cheer, and, in an agony of anxiety, I rushed to the deck. Although above half a mile from the shore, we could see the movement of troops hither and thither, and hear the loud words of command. Whatever the struggle, it was over in a moment, and now we saw the troops descending the steps to the boats. With an inconceivable speed the men fell into their places, and, urged on by the long sweeps, the heavy launches swept across the calm water of the bay. If a cautious reserve prevented any open questioning as to the late affray, the second boat which came alongside revealed some of its terrible consequences. Seven wounded soldiers were assisted up the side by their comrades, and in total silence conveyed to their station between decks. ‘A bad augury this!’ muttered Sullivan, as his eye followed them. ‘They might as well have left that work for the English!’ A swift six-oar boat, with the tricolour flag floating from a flagstaff at her stern, now skimmed along towards us, and as she came nearer we could recognise the uniforms of the officers of Humbert’s staff, while the burly figure of the general himself was soon distinguishable in the midst of them. As he stepped up the ladder, not a trace of displeasure could be seen on his broad bold features. Greeting the assembled officers with a smile, he asked how the wind was. ‘All fair, and freshening at every moment,’ was the answer. ‘May it continue!’ cried he fervently. ‘Welcome a hurricane, if it only waft us westward!’ The foresail filled out as he spoke, the heavy ship heaved over to the wind, and we began our voyage. CHAPTER XVIII. ‘THE BAY OF BATHFRAN’