I hope they will make out our signal." "I have no fear of that," James replied.

"They are sure to keep a sharp lookout for it." Presently the tide grew slacker, and, half an hour later, the ships were seen to hoist their sails, and soon began to drop slowly up the river.

When they approached, James fastened his handkerchief against the trunk of a tree, well open to view from the river, and then stood with his eyes fixed on the approaching ships.

Just as the Sutherland came abreast of the spot where they were standing, the ensign was dipped.

James at once removed his handkerchief.
"Now," he said, "Middleton, you can turn in and take a sleep.