Then a lively discourse arose and throve among the younger; and the elders let them hold it, while they talked of something else.
On the following morning two dialogues were held upon different parts of Springhaven shore, but each of great import to the beautiful captive still fast aground in the offing.

The first was between Captain Zebedee Tugwell and Lieutenant Scudamore.

The gentle Scuddy, still hoping against hope, had stuck fast to his charge, upon whose fortunes so much of his own depended.

If he could only succeed in floating and carrying her into Portsmouth, his mark would be made, his position secured far quicker than by ten gallant actions; and that which he cared for a hundredfold, the comfort of his widowed mother, would be advanced and established.

For, upon the valuation of the prizes, a considerable sum would fall to him, and every farthing of it would be sent to her.