g brig bound for Hong-Kong.
As was the custom, the brig stopped to allow the commander of the
_Shohirika_ to make certain that she was not carrying contrabands of war
for Russia or had no intentions of running the blockade.

While this examination was going on, Larry and Luke chanced to come on
deck, curious to have a look at the stranger.

"About as big a brig as I ever see in these parts," was the Yankee tar's
comment. "She must carry a whopping cargo."

"Yes, and a lot of men to man her," answered Larry. "Think of hoisting
and furling such sails as she carries!"

The two vessels had come fairly close to each other, and our friends
continued to survey the brig with interest. Then Larry gave a cry.

"Oh, Luke, I wish I had a glass!"

"Why?"

"Unless I am mistaken, there is Shamhaven on the deck of that ship!"

"No!"

Larry pointed with his hand. "Doesn't that look like him?" he continued.

"Keelhaul me, if I don't think you're right, lad. Wait, I'll get a glass
an' make certain!"

The old tar knew where he could borrow a glass, and in a minute more he
returned, and both took a brief look through the instrument.

"It is Shamhaven!" ejaculated Larry. "And look, there is Peterson coming
from the fo'castle!"

"That's so. What ye goin' to do about it?"

"Tell the officer of the deck. They shan't get off with my money if I
can help it."

Rushing away, Larry soon acquainted the proper officer with what he had
discovered--telling as much about the robbery as seemed necessary. The
officer was interested, and, what was even more to the point, liked the
young American.

"Do you wish to go to yonder ship and confront the men?" he asked.

"Try me and see!" answered Larry, excitedly. "I mean, yes, sir," he
stammered. "And will you let Luke Striker go, too?"

The officer agreed, and soon another small boat put off from the
warship, and Larry and Luke, with the officer, were speedily landed on
the deck of the brig.

"You're a fine rascal, to rob me!" cried Larry, rushing up to Shamhaven.
"And to rob Captain Ponsberry, too!"

Shamhaven had not expected this encounter, and for the moment he was
dumbstruck. He gazed from Larry to Luke as if they were ghosts.

"I--I--who are you, anyway?" he stammered. "I don't know you," he added,
striving to regain his composure.

"Yes, you do know me, and you know Luke Striker, too," answered the
young gunner's mate.

"What does this mean?" asked the captain of the brig, w