Poor Ithuel was not the only one who was condemned to this equivocal servitude, hundreds passing weary years of probation, with the same dim ray of hope, for ever deferred, gleaming in the distance.

It was determined, however, not to put Ithuel on his trial until the captain had conversed with the admiral on the subject, at least; and Nelson, removed from the influence of the siren by whom he was enthralled, was a man inclined to leniency, and of even chivalrous notions of justice.

To such contradictions is even a great mind subject, when it loses sight of the polar star of its duties! When the sentence on Raoul was pronounced, therefore, and the prisoner was removed, the court adjourned; a boat being immediately despatched to the Foudroyant with a copy of the proceedings, for the rear-admiral's approbation.

Then followed a discussion on much the most interesting topic for them all: the probable position of, and the means of capturing, the lugger.

That le Feu-Follet was near, all were convinced; but where she was to be found, it was hard to tell.