nd him, they should be able to devise a
plan for their escape. Shortly after this, O'Harrall came into the
cabin. "You expected the tables to be turned, and that the _Ouzel
Galley_ would be captured by yonder man-of-war," he observed, as he
stood with his arms folded, leaning carelessly against the bulkhead.
"It is as well for you, however, that we had not to engage her, for my
fellows are not men who would consent to be taken alive. Had we not
escaped from her, they would to a certainty have blown up the ship, when
all hope had abandoned them."

"Then, sir, we may congratulate you and ourselves on having avoided a
fight," said Captain O'Brien. "We may wish you a better fate, and it is
certainly one we are thankful to have escaped."

"I hope to enjoy greater happiness for many years to come than has
hitherto been my lot," said the pirate, gazing at Norah, who cast down
her eyes to avoid his glance. "Circumstances have made me what I am,
but I intend to abandon my present course, and to engage in some service
where I may gain an honourable name and retrieve the years which have
passed. I already possess sufficient wealth to satisfy my utmost
desires. My only wish is to share it with one whose affections I may
hope to gain."

The pirate continued for some time speaking in this strain. Norah did
her utmost to pretend that she did not understand him, while Captain
O'Brien stood fuming with rage at what he mentally called the audacious
impudence of the villain. Poor Captain Tracy's heart sank, and though
not less indignant than his friend, he endeavoured to conceal his
feelings. Happily O'Harrall was again summoned on deck. No sooner was
he gone than Norah gave way to hysterical sobs.

"Oh, father! father! kill me sooner than let him take me from you," she
exclaimed. "I know too well what he means; but I would pray for death
sooner than become his wife."

"If he really wishes to obtain an honourable name he will offer no
violence, my child," said Captain Tracy, endeavouring to comfort her.
"Heaven will find some way for you to escape."

The cause of the pirate's being summoned on deck was soon apparent. The
wind had fallen, and the _Ouzel Galley_ lay becalmed, surrounded by the
reefs amid which she had taken shelter. Though the passage occupied her
some time, she was still at no great distance from the open channel.

"Why, as I live, there is the frigate, not more than three or four miles
off," exclaime