Part 70 (1/2)

”Mr Pickersgill, I feel that you have had cause of enmity against me, and that you have behaved with forbearance. I thank you for your considerate treatment of the ladies; and I a.s.sure you, that I feel no resentment for what has pa.s.sed.”

”My lord, I am quite satisfied with what you have said; and I only hope that, in future, you will not interfere with a poor smuggler, who may be striving, by a life of danger and privation, to procure subsistence for himself and, perhaps, his family. I stated to these ladies my intention of anchoring the yacht this night at Cowes, and leaving her as soon as she was in safety. Your unexpected presence will only make this difference, which is, that I must previously obtain your lords.h.i.+p's a.s.surance that those with you will allow me and my men to quit her without molestation, after we have performed this service.”

”I pledge you my word, Mr Pickersgill, and I thank you into the bargain.

I trust you will allow me to offer some remuneration.”

”Most certainly not, my lord.”

”At all events, Mr Pickersgill, if, at any other time, I can be of service, you may command me.”

Pickersgill made no reply.

”Surely, Mr Pickersgill,--”

”Pickersgill! how I hate that name!” said the smuggler, musing. ”I beg your lords.h.i.+p's pardon--if I may require your a.s.sistance for any of my unfortunate companions--”

”Not for yourself, Mr Pickersgill?” said Mrs Lascelles.

”Madam, I smuggle no more.”

”For the pleasure I feel in hearing that resolution, Mr Pickersgill,”

said Cecilia, ”take my hand and thanks.”

”And mine,” said Mrs Lascelles, half crying.

”And mine, too,” said Lord B., rising up.

Pickersgill pa.s.sed the back of his hand across his eyes, turned round, and left the cabin.

”I'm so happy!” said Mrs Lascelles, bursting into tears.

”He's a magnificent fellow,” observed Lord B. ”Come, let us all go on deck.”

”You have not seen my aunt, papa.”