My dear Laura, do not be so foolish; Mr Forster can be of no service to us: but he will be on deck.

Let go, Laura." Newton was released.

"I am much obliged to you, Miss Isabel," said Newton, with his foot on the ladder; "but I have no time now to express my thanks--not to be on deck--" "I know it, Mr Forster: go up, I beseech you; do not wait a moment:" and Newton sprang up the ladder; but not before he had exchanged with Isabel a glance which, had he been deficient in courage, would have nerved him for the approaching combat.

We must leave the ladies with Mr Ferguson (who had no pleasant office), while we follow Newton on deck.

The stranger had borne down with studding-sails, until within three miles of the Indiamen, when she rounded to.