You have alarmed the ladies.

A suspicious sail, Mrs Ferguson, merely implies--in fact, that they do not know what she is." "Is that _all_ it means ?" replied Mrs Ferguson, with an incredulous look.
"Nothing more, madam; nothing more, I assure you." "Commodore has made signal that the strange vessel is a man-of-war bearing down," said the second mate, again entering the cabin.
"Very well, Mr Jones," said Captain Drawlock, with assumed indifference, but at the same time fidgeting on his chair.
The first mate and Newton immediately quitted the cabin.
"Miss Tavistock, will you take a little of this pudding ?" "If you please, sir, a very little." "A man-of-war! I'll go and have a look at her," said the colonel, who rose up, bowed to the ladies, and left the cuddy.
"Most probably one of our cruisers," observed Captain Drawlock.
"The commodore has made the signal to prepare for action, sir," said the second mate.
"Very well, Mr Jones," said Captain Drawlock, who could now restrain himself no longer.

"You must excuse me, ladies, for a moment or two; but our commodore is so _very_ prudent a man, and I am under his orders.

In a short time I hope to return to the pleasure of your society." Captain Drawlock's departure was followed by that of all the male party, with the exception of Dr Plausible and Mr Ferguson, both of whom, however, were anxious to go upon deck, and ascertain how matters stood.
"Mr Ferguson, where are you going ?" said his wife, sharply.

"Pray! sir, do us the favour to remain.