troubled with the idea that such resistance might lead to much
bloodshed; and he was still debating how to act, when they reported to
him that there was a boat coming from the admiral's ship. Philip went
upon deck to receive the officer, who stated that it was the admiral's
order that he should immediately come on board, and that he must
consider himself now under arrest and deliver up his sword.

"No! no!" exclaimed the ship's company of the Dort. "He shall not go on
board. We will stand by our captain to the last."

"Silence, men! silence!" cried Philip. "You must be aware, sir," said
he to the officer, "that in the cruel punishment of that innocent young
man the admiral has exceeded his powers: and, much as I regret to see
any symptoms of mutiny and insubordination, it must be remembered, that
if those in command disobey the orders they have received, by exceeding
them, they not only set the example, but give an excuse for those who
otherwise would be bound to obey them, to do the same. Tell the admiral
that his murder of that innocent man has determined me no longer to
consider myself under his authority, and that I will hold myself as well
as him answerable to the Company whom we serve, for our conduct. I do
not intend to go on board and put myself in his power, that he might
gratify his resentment by my ignominious death. It is a duty that I owe
these men under my command to preserve my life, that I may, if possible,
preserve theirs in this strait; and you may also add, that a little
reflection must point out to him that this is no time for us to war
with, but to assist each other with all our energies. We are here,
shipwrecked on a barren coast, with provisions insufficient for any
lengthened stay, no prospect of succour, and little of escape. As the
commodore truly prophesied, many more are likely to perish as well as
him--and even the admiral himself may be of the number. I shall wait
his answer; if he choose to lay aside all animosity, and refer our
conduct to a higher tribunal, I am willing to join with him in rendering
that assistance to each other which our situation requires--if not, you
must perceive, and of course will tell him, that I have those with me
who will defend me against any attempt at force. You have my answer,
sir, and may return on board."

The officer went to the gangway, but found that none of his crew, except
the bowman were in the boat; they had gone up to gain from the men o