from the top of the cliffs right
down on our decks, and, as we may probably be peppered pretty severely
for the greater part of the way, it will not be altogether an amusing
expedition, though we may get plenty `of the bubble reputation, e'en at
the cannon's mouth.' Anything, however, is better than idleness."

"We are not likely out here to meet with much besides fighting to amuse
us," observed Jack. "However, I am thankful to find that you are to
join the brig, and am much obliged to the commodore for it."

The two old shipmates sat talking for some time, and as soon as Terence
returned to the corvette, Jack took out his writing materials and
indited his letter for home. He made as light of Tom's capture as
possible, and spoke as if it was certain that he and Desmond would find
their way back again before many days were over. He begged that his
father would find out Murray through Admiral Triton, and from him learn
where the Bradshaws, with Miss O'Regan, were staying, that his family
might pay them any attention in their power; he expressed a hope that,
after the Parana business was over, he himself should be sent home, and
bring back Tom safe and sound.

He tried to make his letter appear cheerful, but in reality he never in
his life before felt so much out of spirits.

Next morning he took it on board the _Tudor_ and wished Murray farewell.

"You will do well, depend on it, Alick," he said. "You already look
better, and we shall meet again before long in old England."

Murray smiled faintly; his wound was painful, though the surgeon assured
him that it was going on favourably. The officer who was to supersede
Adair having come on board the corvette, the latter accompanied Jack
back to the brig.

He received an order directly afterwards to proceed in search of a
schooner, supposed to be in one of the numerous passages which carries
the waters of the Parana into the River Plate.

"It is very well to say go, but we must get a breeze first," said Jack.

A breeze soon afterwards got up, but it came from the wrong direction;
it was, however, favourable for the _Tudor_, and Jack and Terence
watched her as her sails were let fall, and she glided away down the
river. They would for many reasons have liked to have been on board
her. Few men, after having spent several years on a foreign station,
can look without concern on a homeward-bound ship, which carries away
friends and acquaintances, while they themsel