I am left here to sail the last with the Caesar; Sir Gervaise leading out in the Plantagenet, with a view to draw a line across the channel that shall effectually prevent de Vervillin from getting to the westward." "To the _westward_!" repeated the other, smiling ironically, though the darkness prevented the admiral from seeing the expression of his features.

"Does Admiral Oakes then think that the French ships are steering in _that_ direction ?" "Such is our information; have you any reason to suppose that the enemy intend differently ?" The baronet paused, and he appeared to ruminate.

Enough had already passed to satisfy him he had not an ordinary mind in that of his companion to deal with, and he was slightly at a loss how to answer.

To bring the other within his lures, he was fully resolved; and the spirits that aid the designing just at that moment suggested the plan which, of all others, was most likely to be successful.

Bluewater had betrayed his aversion to the interference of foreign troops in the quarrel, and on this subject he intended to strike a chord which he rightly fancied would thrill on the rear-admiral's feelings.
"We have our information, certainly," answered Sir Reginald, like one who was reluctant to tell all he knew; "though good faith requires it should not actually be exposed.