"Here is the ship just alongside now." As the vessel, which was a coaster, came along, the crew looked over the side, their attention, being called by the sound of the pistol and the shouts of those in chase.
"Throw us a rope, sir," Jacob shouted.

"We are not malefactors, but have been up to a boyish freak, and shall be heavily punished if we are caught." Again the pistol rang out behind, and one of the Sailors threw a rope to the boys.

It was caught, and in a minute the boat was gliding rapidly along in the wake of the ship.

She was then pulled up alongside, the boys clambered on board, and the boat was sent adrift, The pursuers continued the chase for a few minutes longer, but seeing the ship gradually drawing away from them, they desisted, and turned in toward shore.
"And who are you ?" the captain of the brig said.
"We are apprentices, as you see," Jacob said.

"We were listening to some preaching at Paul's Cross.