CHAPTER XXVIITHE HOME-COMING OF THE "SAUCIEST BOY"Probably so extraordinary a battle had never yet been fought at sea in modern times.It must have been pretty nearly eight bells in the night-watch, when suddenly sweeping round a headland, with the Russian flag flying, theBreezyfound herself almost cheek by jowl with a great German cruiser. Not far off were five British merchantmen, all evidently prisoners. This was perceived by search-light.The interpreter Kep roared through the great megaphone in German--"What ship is that?""Kaiser the Secondof Germany. Who are you?""The Russian cruiserBorloff, Captain, his Excellency the Count Kaskovisky.""We don't believe you.""Take that, then, as you can take no snuff."Immediately a torpedo was let fly, followed by the roar of big artillery that all but swept the German into the sea, guns and all. She was hard hit and reeled and swayed like an old tub.At that very moment the spirit of old Nelson seemed to entered into the soul of Captain Breezy."Away boarders!" he yelled. "Steer her close alongside. Hurrah! boys, Hurrah! We'll give her old fashioned fits. Keep the flash-light on us. Follow me!" and he was the first himself to board, all the officers and men that could be spared scrambling after him.Kep, too, was near him, with his borrowed cutlass.Oh, God! what amêlée.The Germans fought well for a short time. The big doctor with his broadsword must have slain a dozen.The ring of revolvers, the clashing of steel, the thuds, the blows, the cries and groans, ay, and the terrible oaths as men struck home with knife or bayonet.In fifteen minutes the crew had sought shelter below, and the Captain himself and those of his officers not killed or wounded had handed their swords to Captain Breezy. Breezy thanked them coolly and quietly."And now, sir, your ship is sinking and on fire forward. Call your men up unarmed to take refuge on our ship. Quickly too, or we must haul off, and leave you."Kep rushed aft and hauled down the German flag. He wrapped it around him like a Scottish plaid, and shouted Hurrah!No attempt was made to quench the fire; but side by side British and Germans worked bravely for nearly half an hour under the command of McTavish, till they got the wounded taken on board theBreezy, then the latter speedily steamed off and away.None too soon, for they were but half a mile off when theKaiserblew up. Oh, a terrible sight, such as I trust your eyes, my youthful readers, may never behold.The Germans were really good fellows, and thought of the loss of their ship as a mere trick of fortune.The unwounded men were landed as prisoners next morning on this thrice beautiful Isle. But Captain and officers as well as the wounded were kept as prisoners of war.The British merchant ships went on their several ways rejoicing at the turn of the tide, and the German prisoners seemed as happy as schoolboys in a strawberry patch, only they smoked all day, a thing that boys who want to grow up hardy and well should never do.The Captain of the sunken cruiser could talk good English and so could his officers, and they told many a side-splitting yarn after dinner, so they were really good company.They were good musicians too, and were both thrilled and delighted when Kep took out his magical little black flute with which he had charmed both snakes and savages.But they would have McTavish to play them on the great Highland bagpipes, laments, coronachs, and battle pieces. They had never heard so wonderful or warlike an instrument before."Shall I play you a lullaby or cradle hymn, Captain?""Mein Gott!" exclaimed the German. "You think you can play a lullaby on that.""Sit here a moment, sir. The skylights are open and I am going to play well forward, or in the ship's waist. Listen."He went below first to the cook's galley to tune properly up.Then in a few minutes the lullaby began. It seemed the lowest and dreamiest music those Germans ever listened to, and appeared to be coming up out of some dreary pine-forest, or from far away behind a heather hill."Dat was glorious," cried the German. "Oh, Captain Breezy, send a sentry to request an encore." When the last notes filled the air in cadence long and low, there were tears in that Captain's eyes."You are a wonderful peoples, you Scotch," he said, as McTavish flung the pipes on the sofa. "Love, romance and music dwells only in a mountain-land."One day, not long after this, theBreezywas sighted by a Russian battle-ship. Had this vessel overhauled her, they would have fought like mountain cats, and would have probably sunk with the British colours flying.There was no occasion, for just then a huge and majestic British ship hove in sight, and the Russian now took to her heels, showing her ugly stern, with the Britisher, after an exchange of salutes with theBreezy, going full speed after her.They passed to the east of the Channel Islands that evening."Now," said Breezy to Kep, "we have some considerable amount of repairs to make, as I don't want to go into port like a lame duck. So, lad, if you choose, I shall cast anchor just off your father's village of Mareton and complete repairs there, and you can ask your people to come off every day.""Oh, how can I ever thank you, sir?""By holding your peace, lad. But," he added, "I'll be bound that the broadsword-men of theBreezywill manage to amuse them."When big McTavish heard this, strong though he was, he became almost hysterical at the thought of seeing Madge again once more.Says Kep: "I say, old Mac, let me give you a straight tip. Not a word then about your having any money, nor about the treasure. My family are proud, and if my sister does not marry you for your own dear self, sister of mine though she be, she is not worth having.""So be it, Kep, my friend."Next morning the good people of Maretown were surprised to see a bonnie cruiser lying at anchor in the bay, her beautiful flag almost trailing on the surface of the calm unruffled ocean. And about two bells in the forenoon watch, a light boat was lowered nimbly and came dancing shorewards, a young officer holding the ribbons.She was beached on the sand, and in a few minutes' time Kep was rattling up the green cliffs and landed just opposite his dear father's door.He knew it, because Bounder--the same dear old Bounder--came fiercely on him when he attempted to open the gate. But a word from the boy changed all this to wildest joy, and the boy received a real dog-welcome. Not content with kissing him and knocking his cap off, he seized that cap and went bounding round and round on a grand circus tour with it. Round and round he dashed through the shrubberies and ferns, across the lawns and over flower-beds and borders, finally darting in through the hall doorway, where he laid the cap graciously at the feet of his mistress. And then they knew by that dog's joyous countenance, and his smiles canine, that it was theBreezythat lay at anchor in the blue summer-lit bay, and that the long lost boy had indeed returned.Both father and sister rushed out, meeting Kep on the lawn, and I just leave it to yourself to imagine what his reception was.Why, while the sister hugged and kissed him, poor Drummond himself, with tears in his eyes, stood holding his hand, bare-headed in the sunshine.They led him in and he spent a whole all too short hour with him, and then went off with reluctance.He promised to bring a bigger boat for them at one bell for luncheon."I think," said Kep, as he said good-bye for a time, "I think, when you hear my record from Captain's lips, you will believe that I never disgraced the grand old name of Drummond."McTavish himself was at the gangway when the Captain's boat brought Drummond and his daughter Madge off to luncheon. He helped them on deck, Madge first tenderly, but shyly, the father next, somewhat reservedly.And Madge, who walked up and down the deck with McTavish, she asking the drollest questions imaginable about great guns and torpedoes, never heeding or caring what the answers were, because she was thinking of matters far different, Madge, I say, captivated all hands, from the Captain right down to the cook's slush boy. No wonder, with her dark and beautiful eyes, her gentle ways, her wealth of hair and pearly teeth, and her ripe red lips that so strangely contrasted with her almost brown skin, for she was half an Italian and sea breezes had done the rest. For Madge from her very infancy had loved the ocean wild and wide, ni sunshine or in howling storm.So these two walked together, saying not a word that would have revealed to them how very nearly their hearts were one.But the steward himself came up at last to tell them that luncheon was about to be served. Then below they went hand in hand, and took their places quietly, she between her father and Kep, McTavish to the left of Kep.The Captain lunched in the ward-room to-day, and everyone at table was very happy and gay. And all talked about their wild adventures, but never a soul spoke about the treasure that lay below.Somehow or other, Drummond was captivated by the stalwart doctor. The latter listened respectfully to all the Squire said, but by no means in a cringing way. Drummond came of a good old family, but the doctor's was older still.The Squire was not yet fifty, but through long worry and sorrow his hair was white as snow. Consequently the middies called him old.McTavish had the gift of diplomacy.And here is a hint or two to my younger readers, who may wish to curry favour with some white-haired uncle they have not seen before, but think old.You will naturally imagine that he is deaf. Make no such mistake. Don't shout at him while at table, lowering your voice when you turn to talk to others. If you do so what a little ill-mannered brat he will consider you.Never tell him that he looks a little poorly, "sir." In fact the less you "sir" the better.Never, in asking a question, prefix it with the words: "I suppose when you were young, sir."Never, if talking about ages or the long ago, make use of the words: "Oh! you may live a good few years yet, sir."For there is a good chance of the boy who smokes cigarettes and reads the sporting papers being dead long, long before the man of fifty.And never on any account hold out your arm as if to support him when alighting from a carriage, or ten to one you'll receive a snub.If invited to such a gentleman's house, leave all your swagger at home, and don't go chucking the maids under the chin and calling them "Mary." The result would probably be that you would be speedily kicked out by the old guv'nor.And men of fifty can kick too. It is the scientific kick, not done with the toe of the boot but the flat sole. You get there all the same, however, that is, sprawling on your face on the muddy pavement.These words may be a digression, boys, but they are very true.The engineers all that day were busy repairing, but next day was Saturday, and till well into the dog watches McTavish thought he had never spent such an anxious day, but about five o'clock the gig was called away, and the doctor himself went in her.He almost lifted Madge into the boat, but said laughingly to her father, "I needn't assist you, Squire; you've been in many a brave boat." And Drummond felt as lively as a kitten.Such a really delightful evening was spent, and so downright happy were Madge and McTavish, to say nothing of everybody else, that naughty old Time flew as quickly by as if he had hired a motor-car for the express purpose.CHAPTER XXVIIINOT ANOTHER "BUT" ABOUT ITThe dinner that evening was a great success, as society reporters say. But I am writing facts--true facts, not the ordinary kind that are good enough for newspapers.Happy crew, happy officers! Madge was very much at home, and at ease, but who would not be so at a Royal Navy mess dinner.Only sometimes McTavish was too quiet, and apparently a trifle sad. He was wondering to himself what this depression might portend."What are you thinking about, Mac," cried Guilford; "why, you've got a face like a latter day saint."Mac laughed, blushed a little--for it is only men nowadays who do blush--but with an extreme effort he shook himself, mentally that is, and for the remainder of the evening was the life and soul of the ward-room.No one spoke much about adventures. When the Captain was asked about those in New Guinea, he only laughed. "We sailor men," he said, "think little of adventure, so used to it, and as for bravery in the battlefield, why my worthy surgeon McTavish will tell you that to be slain is a far less cruel death than dying in bed."The band to-night was playing at first delightful selections from operas, then they got on to the sweet bonnie lilts of old Scotland. Then to waltzes, and this was more than blood of sailors could stand. The middies had turned out in a body, and the men forward, too, kept it up.Then McTavish, with Madge, and every other wardroom officer with any partner they could pick up."May I lead you forward sister dear, just to show you how our fellows can hornpipe."The band stopped now. Kep's marvellous pipe soon filled the deck with hornpipe dancers. As soon as one dropped out of the ring another hopped in and this continued for an hour.Then came the broadsword-men of theBreezyon deck, and this was the grandest treat ever Madge had known in all her young lifetime. But the duel between Stormalong and McTavish fairly brought down the house.Mac of course had the tartans on, and being begged of to dance the sword dance, he did so, and with real Highland glee too.Poor Squire Drummond was visibly affected,But pleasures are like poppies spread,You seize the flow'r, the bloom is shed;Or like the snow falls in the river,A moment white, then melts for ever;Or like the borealis race,That flit ere you can point their place.Every good time has an end. And so had this evening.Kep and Mac took Madge and her father on shore. Hardly anyone spoke. No one could under such a starlit canopy with the big moon silvering all the sea southwards.I wonder what made Mac squeeze the little hand that somehow--accident, I suppose--found its way into his, and was the gentle pressure he thought was returned, all mere imagination on his part?* * * * *Next evening Kep went on shore with his friend McTavish. They went long, long before sundown, because first the surgeon must talk a bit with the Squire, then Madge and the young men were going to be off on a ramble over the moor with Bounder.The Squire and the gallant Navy surgeon talked chiefly about Scotland and the Clans. The ancestors of both had been out in the 45.Drummond found that Mac was descended directly from a chief of the McTavish clan, which delighted the old man.What delighted him most, however, was Mac's sturdily stating the facts which English boys need so much to be taught, that the short but bloody war that took place between the Jacobites and the Hanoverian was decidedly not a war between Scotland and England. There were as many so-called "Royalists" in Scotland as there were so-called rebels. That had Prince Charlie reached Norfolk his army would have been trebled in number."God bless you, young fellow."And hand met hand in a hearty shake.Away over hill and dale now for a long stroll. But where was Kep and Bounder. The restless Kep had gone on before. He left word with the housekeeper that he had gone on and that they would find him--forest way. I'm really afraid that Kep was a sly little dog."Oh, we'll find him," said McTavish, and away the two went together up and across the moor.I'm sure of one thing, that McTavish, did not talk about Scotland and the Clans to his sweet and beautiful companion. They gathered wild flowers instead, and Mac could name them all and tell the story of their lives.Sweet occupation!Then, by chance I suppose, they entered a shady, ferny dell, and down they sat upon a rock. Then the past somehow came back and their romance in fair Italy.Suddenly the girl burst into tears.He was an awkward fellow, this Mac, and really was at a loss what to do or what to say.But he blurted out at last--"Oh, dearest on earth, life of my life, soul of my soul, we love each other. Will you not be mine?"She did not lisp out like a Society belle--"It's so sudden."But her tearful face was upturned to his."Yes, dear, if father can be got over.""That is nothing," said bold Mac. "I'll manage father. Then----"Well, then Bounder put in an appearance with his red tongue out over his white teeth and laughing all down both sides."Hilloa! you fellows"--it was Kep's voice--"I've been looking for you everywhere."The journey back to the Cottage was a lightsome and happy one. The dinner was a splendid one. All McTavish's despondency had fled, and he kept his host laughing almost continuously all the while with the strange stories he told.After dinner the Squire and he went out to smoke in the garden, while the full moon rose silently up and sparkled on the beautiful sea.You must have known long before this that this great athlete surgeon was not the man to hang fire about anything. His motto was, if you've got to fight, why, the sooner you charge the better.He stopped so quickly in his walk that the Squire had forged ahead a few paces before he too could stop ship and get about.Thus the two men faced each other."Squire Drummond, I love your daughter, and have reason to believe she is fond of me. Squire Drummond, may I call you father?"The Squire looked the bold young rascal up and down, then burst out laughing. And here is what he said as he held out his hand--"Damnme, Duncan McTavish, if I think I can do better."So there was an end of the whole matter. Dr. McTavish was a bold young fellow, and you knowHe either fears his fate too muchOr his deserts are smallWho dares not put it to the test,To win or lose it all.But I say you know, according to Mac, there never was a moon so bright as that under which our heroes returned to theBreezy, nor a perfume half so sweet as that which arose from the cliffs clad with yellow gorse.* * * * *Now time is up, and reader and author have to part till another Christmas, if God in His goodness should see fit to spare us.TheBreezyarrived safely at Plymouth and had a very happy home coming. Captain Breezy was made Rear Admiral almost at once, and the King gave him a C.B.Each officer and man was paid his share of the treasure as soon as its value was ascertained in the Bank of England. And here it was stored for a time.But before I drop the curtain for the last time, I may tell you that every one of theBreezy'screw attended the marriage of McTavish and his bonnie bride, and they departed on their honeymoon in a special train for London.It was not until Kep's return from town that he told his father about the treasure.Three months after that, Drummond was back home and his daughter with Mac had come to live with father and comfort him.Kep received a capital appointment as interpreter and secretary at Whitehall, where he remained till the terrible war was over.Adolph went back to Austria, but promised to visit Martello many times and oft.I need hardly say a word about Stormalong. Fact is he married his Katie, who had been as true to her sailor boy as the needle to the pole.TheBlue Ensignwas transformed completely, and made into a really fashionable hotel, and everybody was proud of the jolly sailor landlord, who often condescended even to appear at the bar counter itself, and his laugh at such time, shook the very rigging, as Stormalong himself would have described it.But in this hotel there was a snuggery, called the Man-o'-War Sailors' own room. Only sailors and sailor's friends were ever admitted, but to drop in there of an evening and listen to the yarns that the seamen spun--each with his pipe and his pint--would have made life seem pleasanter to the veriest hypochondriac.But--but--why I don't think there is another "but" about it.Lower away with the curtain. Good-bye, my brave British boys. And just one little cheer for the British Royal Navy.THE END.Butler & Tanner, The Selwood Printing Works, Frome and London.*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOKTHE SAUCIEST BOY IN THE SERVICE***
CHAPTER XXVII
THE HOME-COMING OF THE "SAUCIEST BOY"
Probably so extraordinary a battle had never yet been fought at sea in modern times.
It must have been pretty nearly eight bells in the night-watch, when suddenly sweeping round a headland, with the Russian flag flying, theBreezyfound herself almost cheek by jowl with a great German cruiser. Not far off were five British merchantmen, all evidently prisoners. This was perceived by search-light.
The interpreter Kep roared through the great megaphone in German--
"What ship is that?"
"Kaiser the Secondof Germany. Who are you?"
"The Russian cruiserBorloff, Captain, his Excellency the Count Kaskovisky."
"We don't believe you."
"Take that, then, as you can take no snuff."
Immediately a torpedo was let fly, followed by the roar of big artillery that all but swept the German into the sea, guns and all. She was hard hit and reeled and swayed like an old tub.
At that very moment the spirit of old Nelson seemed to entered into the soul of Captain Breezy.
"Away boarders!" he yelled. "Steer her close alongside. Hurrah! boys, Hurrah! We'll give her old fashioned fits. Keep the flash-light on us. Follow me!" and he was the first himself to board, all the officers and men that could be spared scrambling after him.
Kep, too, was near him, with his borrowed cutlass.
Oh, God! what amêlée.
The Germans fought well for a short time. The big doctor with his broadsword must have slain a dozen.
The ring of revolvers, the clashing of steel, the thuds, the blows, the cries and groans, ay, and the terrible oaths as men struck home with knife or bayonet.
In fifteen minutes the crew had sought shelter below, and the Captain himself and those of his officers not killed or wounded had handed their swords to Captain Breezy. Breezy thanked them coolly and quietly.
"And now, sir, your ship is sinking and on fire forward. Call your men up unarmed to take refuge on our ship. Quickly too, or we must haul off, and leave you."
Kep rushed aft and hauled down the German flag. He wrapped it around him like a Scottish plaid, and shouted Hurrah!
No attempt was made to quench the fire; but side by side British and Germans worked bravely for nearly half an hour under the command of McTavish, till they got the wounded taken on board theBreezy, then the latter speedily steamed off and away.
None too soon, for they were but half a mile off when theKaiserblew up. Oh, a terrible sight, such as I trust your eyes, my youthful readers, may never behold.
The Germans were really good fellows, and thought of the loss of their ship as a mere trick of fortune.
The unwounded men were landed as prisoners next morning on this thrice beautiful Isle. But Captain and officers as well as the wounded were kept as prisoners of war.
The British merchant ships went on their several ways rejoicing at the turn of the tide, and the German prisoners seemed as happy as schoolboys in a strawberry patch, only they smoked all day, a thing that boys who want to grow up hardy and well should never do.
The Captain of the sunken cruiser could talk good English and so could his officers, and they told many a side-splitting yarn after dinner, so they were really good company.
They were good musicians too, and were both thrilled and delighted when Kep took out his magical little black flute with which he had charmed both snakes and savages.
But they would have McTavish to play them on the great Highland bagpipes, laments, coronachs, and battle pieces. They had never heard so wonderful or warlike an instrument before.
"Shall I play you a lullaby or cradle hymn, Captain?"
"Mein Gott!" exclaimed the German. "You think you can play a lullaby on that."
"Sit here a moment, sir. The skylights are open and I am going to play well forward, or in the ship's waist. Listen."
He went below first to the cook's galley to tune properly up.
Then in a few minutes the lullaby began. It seemed the lowest and dreamiest music those Germans ever listened to, and appeared to be coming up out of some dreary pine-forest, or from far away behind a heather hill.
"Dat was glorious," cried the German. "Oh, Captain Breezy, send a sentry to request an encore." When the last notes filled the air in cadence long and low, there were tears in that Captain's eyes.
"You are a wonderful peoples, you Scotch," he said, as McTavish flung the pipes on the sofa. "Love, romance and music dwells only in a mountain-land."
One day, not long after this, theBreezywas sighted by a Russian battle-ship. Had this vessel overhauled her, they would have fought like mountain cats, and would have probably sunk with the British colours flying.
There was no occasion, for just then a huge and majestic British ship hove in sight, and the Russian now took to her heels, showing her ugly stern, with the Britisher, after an exchange of salutes with theBreezy, going full speed after her.
They passed to the east of the Channel Islands that evening.
"Now," said Breezy to Kep, "we have some considerable amount of repairs to make, as I don't want to go into port like a lame duck. So, lad, if you choose, I shall cast anchor just off your father's village of Mareton and complete repairs there, and you can ask your people to come off every day."
"Oh, how can I ever thank you, sir?"
"By holding your peace, lad. But," he added, "I'll be bound that the broadsword-men of theBreezywill manage to amuse them."
When big McTavish heard this, strong though he was, he became almost hysterical at the thought of seeing Madge again once more.
Says Kep: "I say, old Mac, let me give you a straight tip. Not a word then about your having any money, nor about the treasure. My family are proud, and if my sister does not marry you for your own dear self, sister of mine though she be, she is not worth having."
"So be it, Kep, my friend."
Next morning the good people of Maretown were surprised to see a bonnie cruiser lying at anchor in the bay, her beautiful flag almost trailing on the surface of the calm unruffled ocean. And about two bells in the forenoon watch, a light boat was lowered nimbly and came dancing shorewards, a young officer holding the ribbons.
She was beached on the sand, and in a few minutes' time Kep was rattling up the green cliffs and landed just opposite his dear father's door.
He knew it, because Bounder--the same dear old Bounder--came fiercely on him when he attempted to open the gate. But a word from the boy changed all this to wildest joy, and the boy received a real dog-welcome. Not content with kissing him and knocking his cap off, he seized that cap and went bounding round and round on a grand circus tour with it. Round and round he dashed through the shrubberies and ferns, across the lawns and over flower-beds and borders, finally darting in through the hall doorway, where he laid the cap graciously at the feet of his mistress. And then they knew by that dog's joyous countenance, and his smiles canine, that it was theBreezythat lay at anchor in the blue summer-lit bay, and that the long lost boy had indeed returned.
Both father and sister rushed out, meeting Kep on the lawn, and I just leave it to yourself to imagine what his reception was.
Why, while the sister hugged and kissed him, poor Drummond himself, with tears in his eyes, stood holding his hand, bare-headed in the sunshine.
They led him in and he spent a whole all too short hour with him, and then went off with reluctance.
He promised to bring a bigger boat for them at one bell for luncheon.
"I think," said Kep, as he said good-bye for a time, "I think, when you hear my record from Captain's lips, you will believe that I never disgraced the grand old name of Drummond."
McTavish himself was at the gangway when the Captain's boat brought Drummond and his daughter Madge off to luncheon. He helped them on deck, Madge first tenderly, but shyly, the father next, somewhat reservedly.
And Madge, who walked up and down the deck with McTavish, she asking the drollest questions imaginable about great guns and torpedoes, never heeding or caring what the answers were, because she was thinking of matters far different, Madge, I say, captivated all hands, from the Captain right down to the cook's slush boy. No wonder, with her dark and beautiful eyes, her gentle ways, her wealth of hair and pearly teeth, and her ripe red lips that so strangely contrasted with her almost brown skin, for she was half an Italian and sea breezes had done the rest. For Madge from her very infancy had loved the ocean wild and wide, ni sunshine or in howling storm.
So these two walked together, saying not a word that would have revealed to them how very nearly their hearts were one.
But the steward himself came up at last to tell them that luncheon was about to be served. Then below they went hand in hand, and took their places quietly, she between her father and Kep, McTavish to the left of Kep.
The Captain lunched in the ward-room to-day, and everyone at table was very happy and gay. And all talked about their wild adventures, but never a soul spoke about the treasure that lay below.
Somehow or other, Drummond was captivated by the stalwart doctor. The latter listened respectfully to all the Squire said, but by no means in a cringing way. Drummond came of a good old family, but the doctor's was older still.
The Squire was not yet fifty, but through long worry and sorrow his hair was white as snow. Consequently the middies called him old.
McTavish had the gift of diplomacy.
And here is a hint or two to my younger readers, who may wish to curry favour with some white-haired uncle they have not seen before, but think old.
You will naturally imagine that he is deaf. Make no such mistake. Don't shout at him while at table, lowering your voice when you turn to talk to others. If you do so what a little ill-mannered brat he will consider you.
Never tell him that he looks a little poorly, "sir." In fact the less you "sir" the better.
Never, in asking a question, prefix it with the words: "I suppose when you were young, sir."
Never, if talking about ages or the long ago, make use of the words: "Oh! you may live a good few years yet, sir."
For there is a good chance of the boy who smokes cigarettes and reads the sporting papers being dead long, long before the man of fifty.
And never on any account hold out your arm as if to support him when alighting from a carriage, or ten to one you'll receive a snub.
If invited to such a gentleman's house, leave all your swagger at home, and don't go chucking the maids under the chin and calling them "Mary." The result would probably be that you would be speedily kicked out by the old guv'nor.
And men of fifty can kick too. It is the scientific kick, not done with the toe of the boot but the flat sole. You get there all the same, however, that is, sprawling on your face on the muddy pavement.
These words may be a digression, boys, but they are very true.
The engineers all that day were busy repairing, but next day was Saturday, and till well into the dog watches McTavish thought he had never spent such an anxious day, but about five o'clock the gig was called away, and the doctor himself went in her.
He almost lifted Madge into the boat, but said laughingly to her father, "I needn't assist you, Squire; you've been in many a brave boat." And Drummond felt as lively as a kitten.
Such a really delightful evening was spent, and so downright happy were Madge and McTavish, to say nothing of everybody else, that naughty old Time flew as quickly by as if he had hired a motor-car for the express purpose.
CHAPTER XXVIII
NOT ANOTHER "BUT" ABOUT IT
The dinner that evening was a great success, as society reporters say. But I am writing facts--true facts, not the ordinary kind that are good enough for newspapers.
Happy crew, happy officers! Madge was very much at home, and at ease, but who would not be so at a Royal Navy mess dinner.
Only sometimes McTavish was too quiet, and apparently a trifle sad. He was wondering to himself what this depression might portend.
"What are you thinking about, Mac," cried Guilford; "why, you've got a face like a latter day saint."
Mac laughed, blushed a little--for it is only men nowadays who do blush--but with an extreme effort he shook himself, mentally that is, and for the remainder of the evening was the life and soul of the ward-room.
No one spoke much about adventures. When the Captain was asked about those in New Guinea, he only laughed. "We sailor men," he said, "think little of adventure, so used to it, and as for bravery in the battlefield, why my worthy surgeon McTavish will tell you that to be slain is a far less cruel death than dying in bed."
The band to-night was playing at first delightful selections from operas, then they got on to the sweet bonnie lilts of old Scotland. Then to waltzes, and this was more than blood of sailors could stand. The middies had turned out in a body, and the men forward, too, kept it up.
Then McTavish, with Madge, and every other wardroom officer with any partner they could pick up.
"May I lead you forward sister dear, just to show you how our fellows can hornpipe."
The band stopped now. Kep's marvellous pipe soon filled the deck with hornpipe dancers. As soon as one dropped out of the ring another hopped in and this continued for an hour.
Then came the broadsword-men of theBreezyon deck, and this was the grandest treat ever Madge had known in all her young lifetime. But the duel between Stormalong and McTavish fairly brought down the house.
Mac of course had the tartans on, and being begged of to dance the sword dance, he did so, and with real Highland glee too.
Poor Squire Drummond was visibly affected,
But pleasures are like poppies spread,You seize the flow'r, the bloom is shed;Or like the snow falls in the river,A moment white, then melts for ever;Or like the borealis race,That flit ere you can point their place.
But pleasures are like poppies spread,You seize the flow'r, the bloom is shed;Or like the snow falls in the river,A moment white, then melts for ever;Or like the borealis race,That flit ere you can point their place.
But pleasures are like poppies spread,
You seize the flow'r, the bloom is shed;
You seize the flow'r, the bloom is shed;
Or like the snow falls in the river,
A moment white, then melts for ever;
A moment white, then melts for ever;
Or like the borealis race,
That flit ere you can point their place.
That flit ere you can point their place.
Every good time has an end. And so had this evening.
Kep and Mac took Madge and her father on shore. Hardly anyone spoke. No one could under such a starlit canopy with the big moon silvering all the sea southwards.
I wonder what made Mac squeeze the little hand that somehow--accident, I suppose--found its way into his, and was the gentle pressure he thought was returned, all mere imagination on his part?
* * * * *
Next evening Kep went on shore with his friend McTavish. They went long, long before sundown, because first the surgeon must talk a bit with the Squire, then Madge and the young men were going to be off on a ramble over the moor with Bounder.
The Squire and the gallant Navy surgeon talked chiefly about Scotland and the Clans. The ancestors of both had been out in the 45.
Drummond found that Mac was descended directly from a chief of the McTavish clan, which delighted the old man.
What delighted him most, however, was Mac's sturdily stating the facts which English boys need so much to be taught, that the short but bloody war that took place between the Jacobites and the Hanoverian was decidedly not a war between Scotland and England. There were as many so-called "Royalists" in Scotland as there were so-called rebels. That had Prince Charlie reached Norfolk his army would have been trebled in number.
"God bless you, young fellow."
And hand met hand in a hearty shake.
Away over hill and dale now for a long stroll. But where was Kep and Bounder. The restless Kep had gone on before. He left word with the housekeeper that he had gone on and that they would find him--forest way. I'm really afraid that Kep was a sly little dog.
"Oh, we'll find him," said McTavish, and away the two went together up and across the moor.
I'm sure of one thing, that McTavish, did not talk about Scotland and the Clans to his sweet and beautiful companion. They gathered wild flowers instead, and Mac could name them all and tell the story of their lives.
Sweet occupation!
Then, by chance I suppose, they entered a shady, ferny dell, and down they sat upon a rock. Then the past somehow came back and their romance in fair Italy.
Suddenly the girl burst into tears.
He was an awkward fellow, this Mac, and really was at a loss what to do or what to say.
But he blurted out at last--"Oh, dearest on earth, life of my life, soul of my soul, we love each other. Will you not be mine?"
She did not lisp out like a Society belle--"It's so sudden."
But her tearful face was upturned to his.
"Yes, dear, if father can be got over."
"That is nothing," said bold Mac. "I'll manage father. Then----"
Well, then Bounder put in an appearance with his red tongue out over his white teeth and laughing all down both sides.
"Hilloa! you fellows"--it was Kep's voice--"I've been looking for you everywhere."
The journey back to the Cottage was a lightsome and happy one. The dinner was a splendid one. All McTavish's despondency had fled, and he kept his host laughing almost continuously all the while with the strange stories he told.
After dinner the Squire and he went out to smoke in the garden, while the full moon rose silently up and sparkled on the beautiful sea.
You must have known long before this that this great athlete surgeon was not the man to hang fire about anything. His motto was, if you've got to fight, why, the sooner you charge the better.
He stopped so quickly in his walk that the Squire had forged ahead a few paces before he too could stop ship and get about.
Thus the two men faced each other.
"Squire Drummond, I love your daughter, and have reason to believe she is fond of me. Squire Drummond, may I call you father?"
The Squire looked the bold young rascal up and down, then burst out laughing. And here is what he said as he held out his hand--
"Damnme, Duncan McTavish, if I think I can do better."
So there was an end of the whole matter. Dr. McTavish was a bold young fellow, and you know
He either fears his fate too muchOr his deserts are smallWho dares not put it to the test,To win or lose it all.
He either fears his fate too muchOr his deserts are smallWho dares not put it to the test,To win or lose it all.
He either fears his fate too much
Or his deserts are small
Or his deserts are small
Who dares not put it to the test,
To win or lose it all.
To win or lose it all.
But I say you know, according to Mac, there never was a moon so bright as that under which our heroes returned to theBreezy, nor a perfume half so sweet as that which arose from the cliffs clad with yellow gorse.
* * * * *
Now time is up, and reader and author have to part till another Christmas, if God in His goodness should see fit to spare us.
TheBreezyarrived safely at Plymouth and had a very happy home coming. Captain Breezy was made Rear Admiral almost at once, and the King gave him a C.B.
Each officer and man was paid his share of the treasure as soon as its value was ascertained in the Bank of England. And here it was stored for a time.
But before I drop the curtain for the last time, I may tell you that every one of theBreezy'screw attended the marriage of McTavish and his bonnie bride, and they departed on their honeymoon in a special train for London.
It was not until Kep's return from town that he told his father about the treasure.
Three months after that, Drummond was back home and his daughter with Mac had come to live with father and comfort him.
Kep received a capital appointment as interpreter and secretary at Whitehall, where he remained till the terrible war was over.
Adolph went back to Austria, but promised to visit Martello many times and oft.
I need hardly say a word about Stormalong. Fact is he married his Katie, who had been as true to her sailor boy as the needle to the pole.
TheBlue Ensignwas transformed completely, and made into a really fashionable hotel, and everybody was proud of the jolly sailor landlord, who often condescended even to appear at the bar counter itself, and his laugh at such time, shook the very rigging, as Stormalong himself would have described it.
But in this hotel there was a snuggery, called the Man-o'-War Sailors' own room. Only sailors and sailor's friends were ever admitted, but to drop in there of an evening and listen to the yarns that the seamen spun--each with his pipe and his pint--would have made life seem pleasanter to the veriest hypochondriac.
But--but--why I don't think there is another "but" about it.
Lower away with the curtain. Good-bye, my brave British boys. And just one little cheer for the British Royal Navy.
THE END.
Butler & Tanner, The Selwood Printing Works, Frome and London.
*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOKTHE SAUCIEST BOY IN THE SERVICE***