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Yeo! asked he, in a low voice, what shall we do with her? Why ask me, sir? said the old man, as he had a very good right to ask. Because, when one dont know oneself, one had best inquire of ones elders. Besides, you saved her life at the risk of your own, and have a right to a voice in the matter, if any one has, old friend. Then, my dear young captain, if the Lord puts a precious soul under your care, dont you refuse to bear the burden He lays on you. Amyas was silent awhile; while Ayacanora, who was evidently utterly exhausted by the nights adventure, and probably by long wanderings, watchings, and weepings which had gone before it, sank with her head against his knee, fell fast asleep, and breathed as gently as a child. At last he rose in the canoe, and called Cary alongside. Listen to me, gentlemen, and sailors all. You know that we have a maiden on board here, by no choice of our own. Whether she will be a blessing to us, God alone can tell: but she may turn to the greatest curse which has befallen us ever since we came out over Bar three years ago. Promise me one thing, or I put her ashore the next beach, and that is, that you will treat her as if she were your own sister; and make an agreement here and now, that if the maid comes to harm among us, the man that is guilty shall hang for it by the neck till hes dead, even though he be I, Captain Leigh, who speak to you. Ill hang you, as I am a Christian; and I give you free leave to hang me. A very fair bargain, quoth Cary, and I for one will see it kept to. Lads, well twine a double strong halter for the captain as we go down along. I am not jesting, Will. I know it, good old lad, said Cary, stretching out his own hand to him across the water through the darkness, and giving him a hearty shake. I know it; and listen, men! So help me God! but Ill be the first to back the Captain in being as good as his word, as I trust he never will need to be. Amen! said Brimblecombe. Amen! said Yeo; and many an honest voice joined in that honest compact, and kept it too, like men. |
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