The next instant he sprang over the ship's rail into the sea, and as he did so a shot rang out behind him.

It was not repeated when he came to the surface, for the very good reason that an armed boat from the steam-yacht was so close at hand, that ere the young trooper had cleared his eyes of salt water, its occupants were hauling him aboard.
"Sergeant Norris!" cried an amazed voice from the stern sheets.

"Can it be possible ?" "Lieutenant Norris, if you please," answered our dripping hero, with what dignity he could command.

"But oh, Comly! get me aboard your ship as quick as you can.

It is a matter of life or death!" "But I am ordered to investigate the mutiny on that transport" replied the bewildered Ensign.
"I am the mutiny, and in capturing me you have got the whole of it," declared Ridge.