nges, the panels gave way, and with a loud
crash it was burst open. Two seamen with savage looks were the first to
attempt to enter. Feeling sure that we should receive no mercy,
whatever we did, we at once ran them through with our swords, and they
fell at the entrance of the cabin. The others, seeing their fate, drew
back for an instant. We followed up our advantage.

"If any others wish to share the fate of these ruffians, let them come
on!" we cried out boldly.

Our assailants soon recovered from their surprise, and several shots
were fired into the cabin, filling it with smoke, under cover of which
they attempted again to force their way. The next two were treated as
had been the first. The shrieks and cries of Madam Clough and the poor
women within nearly unnerved us. However, we had resolved, if we could
not save them, to sell our lives dearly. We therefore stood at our
posts, prepared for the worst. Again our enemies pushed forward, led by
their boatswain, with a huge battle-axe in his hand. Fortunately he was
not able to wield it with due effect in the confined space of the cabin
entrance. A'Dale's sword, as he attempted to keep the ruffian at bay,
was struck down, and the man, again lifting his axe, was about to bring
it down with terrific force on A'Dale's head, when, springing forward, I
plunged my sword into his bosom. The fall of their leader seemed to
enrage the rest of the men, and with terrific execrations they again
made an attempt to force their way into the cabin.

CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT.

THE BEGGARS OF THE SEA.

At the moment I have described, when we felt that all hope of escape had
gone--for we could scarcely expect ourselves to resist the numbers who
were rushing down with cries of vengeance to force their way in--a voice
of authority was heard, ordering them to desist. At first they seemed
in no way inclined to obey. One who appeared by his rich costume to be
an officer of authority made his appearance. He spoke with a Spanish
accent:

"Hold! men, hold! what are you about to do? We come not to war against
helpless women. On deck, all of you; or expect the punishment of
mutineers!"

He spoke with a tone of authority not to be disobeyed. Our enraged
assailants quickly retired, without attempting any further violence.
The officer started back with surprise when he found the dead bodies at
the entrance of the cabin.

"You have defended yourselves well, gentlemen," he s