Page:Ballantyne--The Battery and the Boiler.djvu/355

 hand, he threaded his way through the crowd, introducing him right and left to his friends. Not less pleasant was it to observe the lively interest with which the natives regarded the captain when they learned who he was.

At this point in the evening's proceedings, a gentleman in civilian costume came up to Sam Shipton, and asked him if he were acquainted with Mr. Davis—one of the petty officers of the Great Eastern.

"I know him slightly," said Sam.

"He has got into trouble, sir," said the stranger, "and begged me to find you, if possible, and take you to him. I have been on board the Great Eastern looking for you, and was directed here."

"That 's strange," returned Sam, "I have seldom spoken to the man. Are you sure he did not send you for some one else—one of his mess-mates?"

"Quite sure, sir. And he bade me urge you to go quickly, else you may be too late."

"Well—lead the way. Come, Robin, I 'm sorry to quit this gay and festive scene—especially before supper—but it can't be helped. You 'll go with me, and we can return together."

The stranger seemed to hesitate a moment, as if annoyed at Robin being thus asked to go, but, as if quickly making up his mind, led them out of the