We shall never
get away from this valley. What need then for so much rule when death
is certain?"
"Certain it is for thee," cried Hartog, placing his hand on Hugen's
shoulder, and tightening his grip so that the man winced with pain.
"Ask pardon before I tear thine arm from its socket!"
At this, those who had begun to advance to their leader's assistance
drew back. It was known that the punishment which Hartog threatened had
actually been carried out by one of the buccaneer captains upon a
mutinous seaman, and none doubted but Hartog had the strength to fulfil
his threat. Hugen's face blanched as the grip tightened upon his arm.
He tried to free himself. Tears started to his eyes. A sob broke from
his heaving chest. Then he screamed with the intolerable agony he
suffered, but none dare interfere, and I verily believe that Hartog
would have performed his promise and torn the limb from its socket had
not one of the men, who had been looking seaward, cried, "A sail!
sail!"
CHAPTER XXXIII
CAPTAIN MONTBAR
The report of a sail having been sighted dispelled every other thought.
Hartog released Hugens, and, hurrying to the Queen's house, shortly
afterwards returned with his spyglass, with which he anxiously scanned
the horizon.
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