I could I
concealed my feelings, and desired my Dutch friend to inquire of Mulock
Ben Azel whether he desired my presence any longer; and if not, I begged
leave to go forth into the open air that I might gaze on the beautiful
scenery amidst which he had the happiness of dwelling and I had the
happiness of finding myself. I fancy that the interpreter gave my
request a more oriental turn. The chief was at all events pleased to
comply with it, and directed some of his attendants and my Dutch friend
to accompany me. I made a profound salaam, as if I was highly pleased
at all that had occurred. The act was somewhat hypocritical, I must
confess, but, at all events, I was heartily glad to get over the
audience, which was becoming very tedious. As soon as I got out on the
terrace I have before described as affording a magnificent view of the
surrounding country, I eagerly looked seaward in search of the
_Barbara_. I almost gave a shout of satisfaction as I saw her with a
strong breeze off shore, standing away under all the canvas she could
carry. She had good reason to make the best use of her heels, for a
whole fleet of boats, some of considerable size and full of men, were in
hot chase after her. I stood with my companions eagerly watching the
chase, though the objects of our interest were very different. I was
anxious that the _Barbara_ should escape, they that she should be
caught. I knew for one, though, that if good seamanship would enable
him to get away, Captain Hassall would give his pursuers the slip. I
knew too that he would not be taken, even if the boats should catch him
up, without a fight. My earnest hope was therefore that the breeze
might continue. In that climate, however, the land wind often falls
towards the evening, and if it should do so, it would give the Javanese
a great advantage. I found my new friend by my side, and I glanced at
him.

"Your vessel sails well, and I am glad of it," he observed. "The orders
were to bring her in at all risks; at the same time, if her captain
shows a bold front I do not think the natives will dare to attack him at
a distance from the land."

My hopes and fears alternately rose and fell as I watched the chase.
Sometimes the boats seemed to be gaining on her. At other times she
appeared to be obtaining the advantage. She continued to increase her
canvas till every stitch she could carry was set on her, studding sails
on either side, royals, and even stil