It had been given to the Captain years before by the officers of a sinking schooner, whom Shadrach's boat's crew, led by Shadrach himself, had rescued at a big risk off the Great South School.

It had the Captain's name, with an inscription and date, on a silver plate fastened to the stock.

Isaiah was not too willing to lend it, but chicken stealing is a capital offense in South Harniss, as it is in most rural communities, and the cat caught in the act is summarily executed.
So Mr.Chase went to the Captain's room and returned with the gun.
"There you be, Ab," he said.

"Hope you get the critter." "Oh, I'll get him all right, don't you fret.

Say, Isaiah--er--er--" Mr.
Bacheldor hesitated.