Passing the groups of sailors hurrying to the rail, he crossed the deck to where he believed Beven awaited him, for a glimpse of one or more figures in this quarter announced that it was not deserted. To his surprise he saw two men. Captain Beven had company, and Roderic at first glance guessed the identity of that tall figure. It was Don Porfidio. He had walked with the captain to where his yawl awaited, instead of proceeding to the quarter deck; and now he was also able to resist the temptation to rush across to the other rail in order to gratify his natural curiosity. It meant something. Don Porfidio had somehow guessed the truth, or been let in on the ground floor by Beven. Was it war, or peace? Roderic should have disliked the job exceedingly had he been compelled to administer any sort of drubbing to his excellency the good and gruff don, but nevertheless had the fates demanded it he must have obeyed the call to duty. On the whole, therefore, he was well pleased when the big Porto Rican soldier suddenly thrust out his hand, saying: "_Por Dios!_ I honor a brave man who risks much to see one he loves. Senor Owen, success to you!" Roderic took the hand that was offered--he had much respect for this patriot and veteran. "Thank you, senor," he replied. "All is well?" "Delightfully so." "_Cospita!_ good. And pray, what is the cause of all that wonderful splashing yonder?" asked the don, as if suspecting that the Yankee knew. Roderic, already in the act of following Captain Beven down the rope ladder that stretched to the yawl below paused long enough to look up at the general, and laughing say: "Ask Jerome!" "Aha! it is as I thought--ask Jerome--undoubtedly Senor Wellington has met his Waterloo." But Owen had already dropped down the side of the blockade runner and into the boat. Hardly had he gained the yawl than Beven, who was in the stern sheets said huskily: "Push off, and away. Pull like tigers, my hearties, for unless all signs fail we may have a chase before we reach the yacht." The men needed no urging. Once clear of the steamer and they began to ply their ashen blades with an energy that sent the little boat flying through the water. It was a period of suspense. Roderic kept his eyes fastened upon the stern of the steamer, for in this quarter would the pursuit be inaugurated, should one follow. The shouts had ceased. An ominous silence seemed to rest upon the scene. All depended upon whether the wretched Jerome, upon being rescued from the bay, was in a state to disclose what he knew, and the readiness that bold Captain Shackelford would show in following up the clue thus given. And as he looked, too soon he saw the boat shoot into view propelled by sturdy arms. "Faster!" cried Beven at the same moment. There were six pair of English arms against two, but the little yawl was light and trimly built, so the chances seemed pretty evenly divided.