CHAPTER XXVI.
WILLIS FALLS IN WITH THE SLOOP ON TERRA FIRMA, INSTEAD OF AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA, AS MIGHT HAVE BEEN EXPECTED--ADMIRAL CICERO--THE DEFUNCT NOT YET DEAD.
The corvette, notwithstanding the multitude of British cruisers scattered about the ocean, and the other dangers that beset her, held on the even tenor of her way.

A gale sprung up now and then, but they only tended to give a filip to the common-place incidents recorded in the log.

This quietude was not, however, enjoyed by all the persons on board.

Willis was a prey to violent emotions; and so it often happens, in the midst of the profoundest calm, storms often rage in the heart of man.
Whether in reality or in a dream, Willis declared that Captain Littlestone paid him a visit every night, and invariably asked him precisely the same questions.

On these occasions, Willis asserted that he distinctly heard the door open and shut whilst a shadow glided through.