THE NABOB OF SINGAPORE.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XVI, Issue IV, 25 January 1896, Page 104

THE NABOB OF SINGAPORE.

BY

ST. GEORGE RATHBORNE.

Author of * Baron Sam,' • Monsieur Bob,* 'Captain Tom,’ ‘Miss Pauline of Nev York,’ Etc. CHAPTER XVIII. BOARDERS, AHOY ! The suspense is terrible, and it seems hours to the men in the boat, while in reality only a minute or so passes. Manuel no longer uses hie oars—there is no necessity for it, as the tide takes them along in such a manner that they will soon come against the side of the yacht. In the bow crouches the Nabob, whose business it is to fend off, so there will be no collision. Other hands are also ready to do their part of the business. Still there is no outcry, no sudnen hail from the deck of the boat. They can hear a peculiar clinking sound, and now one fellow bursts into a song which others take up. It Hashes upon Max Lee that they have come none too soon—that the anchor is being raised. Ha ! Nat Mayne has touched the side of the boat with hie hands, and keeps the boat from colliding. The current swings them broadside—Manuel has ere this taken in hie oars, so that all they have to do is to reach out and push along in the direction of the stern.

They could climb on board now, but it suits the major to go farther aft. He has been on the steam yacht several times, and remembers the lay of things. The soldier is the first one to climb aboard, and thD he does with the agility of a man of twenty-five. His active out door life has done much toward keeping him in condition.

Am soon as he reaches the deck of the yacht, he bends down and takes the painter of the boat which the Nabob passes up to him.

As all this has been arranged beforehand, there is not the least friction—things work like a charm.

Mayne crawls aboard, and following in his wake comes Phineas. The boatman remains in his craft, under strict orders to keep in readiness to take them aboard at any minute. Major Max has before him the plan which he purposes to carry out. They move along the deck, making for the cabin. Plainly can be heard the clang of the chain as the anchor comes in. If they had missed the boat for even ten minutes it would have been too late.

Again they are favoured in not meeting with a single soul on the way to the cabin. The major’s hand is on the knob—he casts one quick glance over his shoulder, to see that his two companions are at his heels, then Hings the door open and enters. Close behind him comes the Nabob ot Singapore, while Phineas—bold Phineas, with not a weapon save hi- clarion voice—brings up the rear. He knows his duty well, and the first thing he is to do is to close the door behind him ; yes, ami turn the key in the lock at the same time, which may prevent a sudden and undesirable inHux or visitors. When Major Max enters he finds the cabin dense with tobacco smoke. Through this haze he can make out several figures seated in easy chairs at the table, upon which rests a decanter of cut glass, a few bottles, and several unique tumblers, while a box of prime cigars lies open close by. Nou’ that the owner of the British yacht Talisman has again come into possession, he has changed the order of things to suit his own taste.

The soldier takes a step or two forward —he is using his eyes to the best advantage, and trying to make out who these parties may be. They seem bent on making themselves comfortable at lea«t. A voice reaches his ear—he recognises it immediately as belonging to the British gentleman who played such a tremendous game with De Lesseps’ side partner to back hitn up, and lost. Yes, it is Lord Aleck beyond question, and his last sentence is very suggestive :

• A million at the lowest, my dear fellow —not a shilling les* upon my word.’ They look through the haze.’ •Is that you. Captain Wakeman ?’ demands the lordly owner of the yacht. • What doe* this intrusion mean, air ? I am not accustomed to having an audience forced upon me.* • It. means that you are a prisoner, str,* says the major, quietly.

The two men utter exclamations of sudden alarm, and spring to their feet ; one of them upsets bis chair in his mad haste.

• Who are you, and what the deuce do you want?* exclaims the owner of the yacht.

• Major Max Lee,’ falls from Lord Aleck’s lips. Through the dense tobacco smoke he has recognised the man whom he has moat reason to dread in ail Singapore. The eyes of fear are keen.

• Yes, that is my name—my mission here you can guess just as readily.’ says the soldier, grimly. He does not trust this style of men further than he can see them, and deems it wise to keep a hand on his weapon while talking. •Nonsense! how should we guess it? We are just about to leave Singapore for Hong Kong.’ Time is what the proprietor of the yacht desires—time to collect his thoughts and form a plan of action. Time is also a valuable consideration with the invaders, who know they have undertaken a tremendous job, yet are bound to carry it through. ‘ Then 1 will tell you. We are here after a lady.’ ‘A lady?’ echoes the other. ‘Yes; we have brought the same boatman who rowed you out from the dock. Do you deny that you brought a lady aboard a short time since ?’ The two men look at each other.

• Why, certainly nor,’ says Lord Aleck grinning ; ‘ but I don’t believe you have any claim on that lady, my dear Major Lee. She is—ahem —the wife of my friend Edgemont, here.’

•Yes—that’s so—my wife, you see,’declares the stout individual, quickly, and he has the appearance of a drowning man catching at a straw. There comes a knock at the door.

Major Max produces his revolver, and steps up close to the side of Edgemont. ‘Call out,’ he says in a low tone. ‘ Hello ! who is it ?’ demands the other.

‘Captain Wakeman. Anchor’s catted, sir. Shall we steam out of the harbour at once ?’

The Englishman looks at Max. * What would you have me say ?’ he asks, eneeringly. ‘The moon will rise in half an hour.’ • Yes.’ ‘ Tell him to wait until then.’ The Englishman frowns, and mutters something under his breath. ‘Tell him 1 Do you hear?’ repeats the soldier.

Eye looks into eye ; what Edgemont sees in the orb of the American does not matter, but he comes to a wise conclusion.

‘Captain Wakeman, keep the yacht where she is now until moonrise,’ he calls out, sullenly. • Ay, ay. sir.’

Then the captain is gone. Edgemont throws himself into his chair again, showing anger. Lord Aleck looks into a pair of flashing eyes that belong to the Nabob of Singapore. •I whipped you once. Lord Aleck, and, by Heaven ! I’m only waiting for a chance to give you another dose of the same medicine.’ is what that excited individual says to him. Hence, Pemberton makes no move to start a fracas—his eye has hardly recovered from the previous acquaintance with Nat’s fists.

‘Now, we’ll talk business again. We have come to rescue the lady you brought aboard,’ resumes the veteran.

‘ Rescue my wife ! Ridiculous, man,’ says the other, with a hoarse laugh. ‘Twice you have called the lady by that name. Would you object to showing her to us ?’

‘ Not at all. Aleck, old boy, would you mind stepping over and knocking at her door.’

Our friends are somewhat taken aback by this proposal, but stand their ground. Major Max prepares for further business. He is positive they aie on the right track, and he does not mean to give up until the whole yacht has been searched. Meanwhile Pemberton steps over to one of the several doors and knocks. * What is it?* asks a feminine voice. ‘ Edgemont wishes you to come in here.’ • Oh, I’m tired—can’t he wait until dinner?’

•It’s very important.* • Humbug ! More papers to sign.’

The state-room door opens, and a vision of English beauty emerges. Nabob Nat immediately catches his breath, and begins to smooth his moustache. It is second nature with this Adonis to be on parade—he has so long been accustomed to the society of ladies, and endeavouring to fascinate them by his personal appearance, that if he were on the rack, and a female entered the room, with the pains of approaching dissolution shooting through his frame, this man would try to win the admiration of the dear creature.

Sure enough, no sooner does the indolent lady who enters set eyes upon the Nabob than she is like a poor bird fluttering around the head of a rattlesnake. She does not remove her gaze from Nat even while answering the questions put by Edgemont. * Are you satisfied, gentlemen ?’ demands the Englishman, contemptuously.

• That this is your wife—yes. Butthat she is the lady you brought on board—no,’ returns the major, calmly. ‘ She will tell you so her&eif. Is it not the truth, my dear, that I brought you aboard in a boat?* • Oh, yes.’ • How long ago was this?’ asks the major. She does not notice him. The Nabob repeats the question. Edgemont would put word* into her mouth, but the soldier makes a threatening motion and utters one word : • Silence !’ ‘ Some hours ago, at least,’ she replies. It is the major’s turn to smile now, and the Englishmans look distressed—ugly. ‘Just as I suspected. You have the person abeard for whom we search. Produce her.’ The soldier is very stern now, for he realises that these men are ready to attempt anything within their power rather than confess their defeat. ‘lsn’t the word of an English gentleman quite sufficient, sir?’ and Edgemont draw's himself up stiffly ; but the bold bluff falls flat. Major Max laughs and snaps his fingers. ‘I know many such gentlemen whose word is their bond —I would risk my life upon it ; but you, sir—bah ! your word would never reassure a tailor. The lady whom we seek is on board this boat; we have sworn to find her. even if we scuttle your yacht and go down with her. Phineas, try each door in turn while we watch these honourable gentlemen.’

CHAPTER XIX. A NEW COMMANDER ON THE YACHT.

Phineas has been only too eager to take a hand in the affair, and at the word he springs forward to open the nearest door. The room, evidently belonging to Edgemont, is void of human presence. He tries the next—the door is locked, and upon the panel he knocks loudly, calling ! * Miss Eulalie—oh, Miss Eulalie !’

Now Phineas is proud of his voice, and he has good reason to be. When he gently murmurs the name of Miss Eulalie, a dozen doors could not prevent the resonant tones from penetrating beyond. Hence, though ordinary sounds may not have been heard, his cry reaches the ears for which it is intended.

•Oh, Phineas, is that you?’ comes a shriek.

‘ Open the door. We’ve come to save you.’ ‘ I cannot—it is locked.’

• Who has the key 9 ’ •Mr Edgemont. I threatened to jump overboard, and the wretch locked me in. l a —ia—the major with you. Phineas?’

• Ye*, and Mr Nat. too." • Oh, what rapture !’ she is heard to exclaim ; and the conceited Nabob, thinking that of course thin applies wholly to him, and not her condition, smiles amiably and pulls his divine moustache, while the fair English beauty continues to gaze upon him with the eyes ot enchantment.

The major has wheeled upon Edgemont. He holds out his left hand.

• That key, sir.’ ‘ I declare, on my honour ' • I said that key, sir.’ ‘ Do you doubt ’ • I shall be compelled to search you like a thief unless you hand it over.’ Edgemont is white with sullen fury—he is not used to being baited in this way ; but fate is against him. So, with a deep curse, he dives a hand into one pocket, then into another.

‘ Be quick, sir !’ thunders the major, for Eulalie is already shaking the door as if fearing they are about to leave her there. • Take it, then,’ producing a key. •No. you unlock the door yourself.’

‘ Oh, very well. Give your orders, commodore, while you may. It’s your turn now—mine may come later." . Assuming a jaunty air, and scowling at the Nabob, because already the demon of jealousy has possession of his soul. Edgement steps over to the door of the stateroom.

He inserts the key in the lock, turns it, and then suddenly opens the door.

Eulalie immediately appears. Her lovely face shows signs of recent weeping, but just at the present moment it is lighted up with the most transcendent joy. Through the haze she glances quickly to right and left. Nat Mayne imagines, of

course, that he and he alone is the object of her solicitude.

* Here I am, Eulalie—heaven and earth could not have kept me away,’ he cries, striking his most killing attitude ; but Eulalie actually passes by him and darts to the major’s side. ‘Thank Heaven for your coming. Again I owe my lite to you,’ she can only say. * We are all equal sharers in the honour, my dear girl. Nor can we be sufficiently thankful that we have arrived in time. Heaven only knows what these evil men had in view.’ * The cool million her uncle beat me out of—we wouldn’t have ottered Miss Thorpe harm for any consideration. She will tell you herself that we have treated her as a lady,’ says Pemberton, a little uneasy when he feels the black look the American soldier dart* his wav.

• Yes, yes ; what he says is true. All they refused me was my liberty ; but that was everything to me, dear major. Let us leave this place. I never want to see these people again,’ shuddering. • He’s gone !’ comes like the crack of doom, in Phineas’ piercing voice. • Who is gone ?’ ‘That blasted Edgemont.’ • Why, you have the key of the door—it is locked.’ • That’s so, but you see he dodged into the same stateroom that was open—his own.’ ‘ Ah, and locked himself in. Let him stay.’ • But there’s a window in each —he can reach the deck in that way.’ ‘ Then we have no time to lose.' • They will start the engine and we can’t get off. Manuel must cut loose or drown.’ • Confusion ! I never thought of that. It was a bad move to let him get away. Watch the other.* Major Max darts into the next stateroom, and thrusts his head out the window. He is just a second too late —a disappearing foot tells him that Edgemont has succeeded in clambering out, and has reached the deck.

Back again rushes the soldier—now is the time for his wonderful coolness, his systematic method of action to come into play. • Follow me, Nat. Bring milord, and keep him covered. We are desperate, and perhaps may have to use him tor a shield. Come. ’ Phineas unlocks the door. ‘Look after Miss Eulalie,’ orders the major—Nat would have preferred this pleasant duty, but he already has his hands full in the way of a prisoner ; and it roust be confessed he does his work well—possibly because he realises that the eyes of his charmer are on him.

In this way they quit the cabin. Lord Aleck is in anything but a pleasant frame of mind, but he has not lost his senses. To a capitalist life is very pleasant even when baulked in one design. He does not like the looks of the Nabob, who walks at his side, nor, for that matter, is he particularly delighted with the weapon the other carries.

From the cabin Major Max leads them straight to the engineer’s department, which is forward of the main saloon. The engine of the yacht is a beauty, and the man in charge, with an assistant, takes great pride in keeping the nickel and brass and steel polished until one can scarcely find a speck of dust on any section. They are rubbing away when the major bursts into the room like an avalanche. Enough steam has been generated to start the trim craft at a fair rate of speed. In the engineer, Max Lee recognises a man he talked with before when looking over the boat, but who is greatly surprised to see him now.

A bell rings three times, and the engineer is just about to start his machinery when he hears a peremptory : ‘ Stop !’ •Sir !" he exclaims, amazed. ‘I say don’t start this boat.’ ‘ But the captain is at the wheel. He has given the order to move ahead.’ • Temporarily I am in command of this boat, and you will obey me, Mr Garrison.’ The engineer now sees Lord Aleck trying to keep a smile of indifference upon his face, while he endeavours to get his head out of range, for the Nabob moves..„the weapon he holds, and looks so grim* that a fear lest some spasm might cause his finger to suddenly crook, has seized upon the financier, which would ot course cause a lamentable result, but yet be of considerable advantage to his next of kin.

‘ Well, sir, I see you are in a condition

to enforce your orders—wbat will you have?’ replies the wise engineer. The bell jinglee again—evidently the captain grows furiously impatient. * Hello, Mr Garrison I* bellows a voice down the speaking-tube. * Yes, sir,' answers the party addressed. * Why the deuce don’t you start the engine ?’ * He’s got me, sir.* * W hose got you ?* ‘The American gentleman—the major.* * The deuce, be has I Can’t you knock him over the bead with a bar ?’ * Hardly. He covers me with a revolver.* * Well, hold on. We’ll rout him out.* That means there will come war—an assault by the sailors on board, and blood will be shed. Major Max is equal to the occasion. ‘Mr Garrison, if this bar were temporarily removed, could you start the engine ?' ‘That bar? No, sir—neither forward nor backward,’ replies the other, who possibly sees that Eulalie has an inkling as to how matters stand, and, like a true Englishman, is not averse to aiding beauty in distress.

* Then we will take it with us ; if we land in safety the bar will be immediately returned to you. Should we go down, it will sink with us.’

‘So saying, the major dislocates the piece of steel in question, and carries it in hie left hand.

* Now we will go out. Let Lord Aleck walk between us, Nat, so that he may receive hie full share of the favours thrown, be they bullets or billets.’ ‘Gentlemen, this is monstrous !* remonstrates the object of this attention. * Then use your influence with your friends to bring about peace,’ says Mayne, quickly.

Pemberton finds himself between two fires. He grows more uneasy. * They're bound to kill me off before the end comes,’ he groans. •Oh, human nature can stand a good deal when it becomes necessary. Keep up your courage, and shout like a good fellow. Edgemont will call off his dogs when he finds that you can act as a shield. Forward, my brave friends; courage. Miss Eulalie. Now, altogether.’

They make a dash out up tn the deck.

where they are met by eight or ten teamen, led by the captain and Edgemont himself. A fight seems imminent, and poor Pemberton's position is one of extreme peril. No wonder that be shrieks out to his friend to hold back—no wonder he begs and implores that the crisis may be averted, and whilerobed peace reign. ‘Clear the way !* shouts the major, turning bis revolver first upon one and then another of the semi circle, and there is something so terrible in his aspect that the sailors cower before him. * The man who strikes the first blow dies in his track I We came here to rescue this lady - she belongs to us, and was foul y kidnapped. The law is with us, and will hang you if you do any harm,* speaks up Mayne. * Bravo I* is all Pbineas says, but the sound of his ■ esonant voice makes each man start and shake, as though he had heard the trump of doom. ‘Captain, we carry off a part of your engine. You are helpless without it. I promise that it shall come back in the boat with Lord Aleck. Make the best of a bad bargain. Nat, left wheel—forward, march ; and be ready to shoot to kill.* That he means every word of it none of hie auditors doubt for a moment. Perhaps were their leaders rash enough to give the order, the men would precipitate themselves upon the invaders and engage in a desperate hand - to - hand encounter, for they are British bull-dogs ; but the man who owns the yacht realises that if Lord Aleck is killed there must come an investigation of the manner of his taking off. sooner or later, and like most gentlemen, he has a horror of such official business. Therefore, with a poor grace he gives the word for his hearties to * fall tack.' CHAPTER XX. UNCLE THADDEHS STARTS IN TO PAINT THE TOWN KEO. It is indeed a most remarkable scene, but the game is not yet won, although the tide sets strongly in favour of the invaders. Major Max is on the alert, watchful of everything. * Remember, our safety depends upon holding our prisoner. If he breaks away you might as well send a bullet through his bead,’ he says to the Nabob, incidentally.

but of course Lord Aleck hears and shudders.

* No danger, gentlemen, I assure you.* he says, hastily; * I am ready to accompany you ashore, on your word that I may return.’

* You have that, Pemberton. We'll be only too glad to let you go, and hope it will be the last we may ever see of you.’ * Thia way, comrades,' says the soldier.

They reach the side of the vessel — the captain still keeps hie bullies in check, though they appear to be fairly anxious to have a chance at the three Americans who have thus ventured aboard and braved the whole crew. * Manuel, are you there ?’ calls the major, and the Spaniard's voice comes back : ‘Si, senor ; always faithful—that is Manuel.* * A little further on, gentlemen. Here we are. Is the boat directly under, Manuel ?’ * Directly, sir.’ Now comes the crisis—how are they to get in the boat with a lady and prisoner in charge, when ten sturdy men hang around ready to take advantage of the least accident. * Captain Wakeman, you are a gentleman ?’ * I claim to be such, sir,’ stiffly. * Will you permit this young lady to go over the side of your yacht in the dark, when a misstep may precipitate her into the water ?’ •By the Royal George! I’m not that kind of a man, sir. Here ! bring a lantern —bring two of’em - all you can lay hands on, lads. The lady shall not run any risk while Thomas Wakeman baa charge of the Talisman.’ * You area gentleman, captain.* This time there is earnestness in his tone. Presently lights almost surround them, and Manuel is seen holding his boat alongside the yacht. Eulalie develops a very admirable quality just at this juncture. She seems to understand that the attenticn of the men is wholly needed in watching those who are ready to turn the victory into defeat. She bends down—Nabob Nat gives a low cry of alarm that pierces the heart of the major like a knife, for he is sure she is overboard ; yet. when he looks hastily down he sees Eulalie seated in the boat, into which she has sprung unassisted.

• Bravo 1* cries the English captain : ‘you could not have done better were you an English lassie.’ That is his idea of a compliment, and the best way under such citcumstancea is to take the spirit of a communication. Thus one difficulty is bridged over without the tables being turned. The next business on the programme is to get Lord Aleck in the boat—not that they have the slightest desire for his company, but Major Max believes it is important that they should have a hostage. ‘Jump down, sir,’ says the major, after doing thia himself. With one hand he steadies the boat, for the roll of the water is apt to bang it against the side of the yacht. Lord Aleck does not hesitate ; he is in a bad predicament, and, like a sensible man, believes it prudent to adapt himself to circumstances.

He bends down, picks hie position, and with a rather strained laugh, jumps, and is soon safe in the boat.

• Bless my eyes, sir, what is that you’ve got along with you,’ cries the captain, as he sees Major Max lift down the bar of steel.

* A part of your machinery, capt tin, to insure your lying to until Lord Aleck comes. I give you my word he will bring it back with him inside of half an hour, provided we all reach shore in salety.' The English captain utters an exclam ation of amazement, while his employer swears.

• I’d give a round rum for the privilege of sinking you Yankres in forty fathoms. Why, I never heard o’ such brazen assurance,’ he fairly ravrs, almost beside himself with rage ; but Nabob Nat laughs at him and nimbly finds a place in the bout.

All are now aboard save I’hineas. It is risky taking one more, as the waves aro rolling more than they were a while before. • Can we do it, Manuel ?’ asks the soldier.

‘ Si, senor. The boat is steady—we will go slowly. The skies are brightening too,’ responds the Spanish boatman.

• Why, it’s the moon coming up; we must have been mistaken about it rising in half an hour. Good—Heaven smiles upon us. Drop in as lightly as a feather, Fhinea<. There you are, my boy. All ready, Manuel ?* • Everything, senor.'

‘Get your oars ready—pull alongthe tide, Nat, until the tide sets ua past the stern. Here we are —captain, I salute you. We came after our own. and Heaven has prospered us. A pleasant voyage to you.’ * We may meet again. Major Lee !’ bawls the owner of the yacht, threateningly. * And if we do, sir, take care you don’t rue the day you were born. The next time I may have occasion to press the trigger when my weapon covers your head. I rejoice to know your kind are scarce in the tight little isle far over the sea.’

They can hear Edgemont carrying on at a terrible rate, calling for a howitzer, or even a common blunderbuss, and offering a princely sum to any one who can tire and pick out the major and down him ; but. as the boat has by this time almost vanished from the view of those on board the yacht, no one ventures to try for this reward, as the chances are just as strong that the bullet might find a lodgement in the body of Lord Aleck.

So they head toward the shore. The tide favours them, and presently the moon, peeping up in the east, gives them plenty of light. Presently the shore looms up. and all is well. Manuel believes he has redeemed himself, and is exulting in the thought that he will soon receive another fat fee tor his labour. Nor does he figure in vain, for the lordly Nabob, with a great show of gratitude, empties his pockets into the boatman’s hands.

* What matters it—this night I have gained a life, is what he mutters to himself, for the memory of Eulalie’s smile haunts him still. Now comer trouble —Manuel refuses to return with Lord Aleck and the steel bar of the engine. He tears that those on the yacht may keelhaul him for the share ho has had in the rescue of the young lady. It requires considerable argument before he giver a reluctant consent.

Once rid of their charge, our friends leave the water, and as nothing occurs to disturb their advance, they are soon sheltered under the roof of the hotel piazza. Then they begin to notice that an unusual excitement seems to pervade the vicinity. People rush in and cut of the place—all on the full grin—each tucking something away in his pocket. ' Looks as though some bank were dispensing charity,’ remarks the major.

• What’a this coming outside? Looks like a a fire brigade. Great Ctesar ! there's Uncle Thaddeus on the run at the bead of it. I declare 1 believe the darned old—l mean the blessed old fellow has bought the whole municipal department, branch and root, and intends finding the kidnappers if money can do it. I declare it’s lucky we've shown up, or I believe he would have squandered the whole million,’ exclaims the Nabob, as the combination of firemen and officers draw up in front of the hotel. • One minute boys, until I get my pistols, and run with you. li e’ll paint this blessed town red, but we’ll find my little girl, and punish the rascals who dared carry her off. All of you form in front, and await further orders.’

In he rushes—the first person he meets is hie niece. He stares as if he is viewing a ghost, and advances slowly until be touches her face with a trembling hand, • Is it really you, my dear ’’ * Certainly, uncle. These three good friends have rescued me—you can thank them.' He smiles, turns, and bounding outside, bellows: ‘The lost is found ! Hallelujah! Keep what I gave you, men, and disperse, every one of you.’ BOOK 111. THE DEN OF THE TIGER. CHAPTER XXI. BELINDA. Singapore has been aroused as seldom before. If a report came that the French, who have such a foothold in Anam, were marching on tn the city—that their boats would be on hand to carry them from the mainland of Johave to the northern extremity of the island, which Singapore beautifies—there could hardly haxe been a greater commotion than is raised when the municipal authuri'ies are brought up, and the word flies around that the eccentric American who has just cornered the Java coffee bean market and will make millions out of the deal, is throwing money away right and left to all who agree to enter his services temporarily. Gradually the excitement cools down, although for quite a while the vicinity of the hotel is the scene of considerable ex-

citement, as new bodies of eager citizens who have just learned the astonishing news eome hurrying up, eager to pocket some of the gold that is re|K>rted to be flying around.

Singapore is always ready for business, being a wide-awake city. Meanwhile our friends gather in the private parlour that belongs to the suite of rooms that Thaddeus has engaged, to talk over the adventure.

There is much animation ; oven Eulalie’s face is rosy with this feeling. Major Max atone preserves hie usual calmness ; indeed, he looks more than quiet, so that the young girl cannot but notice it. The Nabob is in his glory ; at last he has been able to actually do his share in a gallant deed, and Nat is hardly the man to forget this.

Thaddeus is wild to hear the particulars. As yet, he has only a hazy idea of the story, and really imagines our friendshave rescued hie niece from eome band of native ra-cala who had seized upon her for a ransom. Gradually his eyes are opened—the story is told with many variations ; Phineas joins in at times when the Nabob’s breath gives out, and carries the tremendous adventure along until Nat recovers his second wind, and once more takes his place as the chief narrator.

Under this egotistic treatment the story assumes a marvellous shape—there are so many hair-breadth escapes that Major Max is quite interested himself, and feels much like one in a dream, almost doubting that he was an actor at all in the affair; it is mostly ‘I ’ with Nat, and only occasionally • we,’ but hardly ever ‘ the major.’ Thaddeus is no fool, and is able to judge for himself in matters of this kind. He likes the Nabob first-rate ; there is something in the fresh, breezy air of the young man, not to speak of his other qualities, that quite attracts the old manipulator. At the same time he also knows the sterling worth of a quiet man like Major Max, and conjectures that that individual may have been the real leader of the expedition. And his opinion is shared by at least one other, and this, Belinda. Miss Huggins is secretly in love with the Nabob, and uses the elongated Phineas as a foil, hoping in eome way to arouse the spark of jealousy in Nat’s breast. Besides, she-is a woman of tact. She reasons that

if the major should win Eulalie, perhaps the Nabob may turn to her for consolation.

At length the story is all told. Thaddeus is full of enthusiasm—success thaws him out. He slaps Mayne on the back.

‘Shake hands, my dear fellow. We are under heavy obligations to you already. This is only the second time my little girl owes her life to your bravery. What would we do on this new hair-brained expedition without you ? I'm certain Eulalie must be grateful for such services.’

It may be there is a touch of irony in the old financier’s voice, but Nat Muyne is not disposed to question bis manner, and accepts ihe words as the utterance of sincerity. As for Eulalie, she colours. ‘ Indeed, I am grateful to Mr Mayne, and to the major and Phineas, too. They have all done nobly. I cannot find words to thank them,’ is what she says, modestly, glancing at the quiet soldier, who seems to bean amused spectator, just as though he has little interest in the matter.

Mayne makes an eloquent gesture. ‘I beg that you will not try. We only did our duty, and it was but a small part of what we stand ready to do at any time for our fair countrywoman.'

• Well said !’ cries Phineas, who would clap his hands only for a frown Nat gives him.

Then they fall to discussing the project which is to occupy so much of their time after this last night in Singapore. Suggestions are made, and harmony secured. If the success of the enterprise depends upon their united action, there can be no doubt of the result.

After that, as the hour grows late, they separate to seek rest.

Major Max has just said good night to Eulalie, when she lays a hand on his arm. They are alone for a minute ; Thaddeus is expounding eome tremendous joke to the uneasy Nabob, who looks over to the voung girl as though for the first lime in his life he knows what jealousy is—for truth to tell he has not yet made sure of her consent, and fears fest the major may learn that he has been deceived.

• Major Max, you gave me no chance to thank you personally for what you did. I assure you I am grateful for the deep

intereat you have taken in the daughter ot your old friend,' she says. * Please don’t mention it. You know what I told you before—that I was only too glad to be able to serve you—in the future ae in the peat.' * You are more than kind,' she continues, somewhat rebulled by hie cold manner, for the major is constantly on hie guard now, and in hie effort to appear only as a friend, is apt to ewing to the other extreme, and awaken both surprise and curiosity. * Have I done anything to hurt your feelings Major Max ?' * Bless your heart, no. Miss Eulalie; why do you ask such a question ?' * You have appeared displeased,’ slowly, and with more than a little confusion. •I—displeased! What have you done? Why should I show displeasure ?’ he says. * 1 really don’t know ; I have tried to behave as properly as I know bow. I—it was not my fault they carried me off; 1 tried to scream, but they prevented me.* * My dear child,* eaye the major, feeling more emotion than he would like to admit at her caring what he thought of her. * I beg that you will not construe my actions as a reproof, when no such thought occurred in my mind. lam not feeling quite myself —that is, I am endeavouring to discipline myself looking toward the inevitable. You must pardon me if my glum face has caused you uneasiness. Heaven knows your happiness is very near and dear to me, and I would sacrifice anything in order to see you—l mean to restore your father to your loving heart. To-morrow I will be more like myself.’ He turns and hurries away, while she looks after him, and sighing, says : ‘ Poor major ! lam afraid he has never fully recovered from the loss of his old sweetheart, years and years ago. What a shame such a man should be so jilted !' Then she suddenly ceases her reflections, for Mayne has come to say good-night. There is something attractive about Mat beyond his handsome face. It is in his manner. Even when one can read him as well as Max Lee does, it is impossible not to like him.

I So Eulalie is attracted to him in a way she cannot understand. He is of a suitable age—handsome and well to do : a great catch, and apparently far gone in devotion. She would not be human not to let her mind rest upon him at times, as one with whom possibly her future may be linked.

And the Nabob, aroused to secure this prize as never before, plays his cards with all the skill be possesses. Yet to himself he doubts, and keeps an eye on Mies Huggins, who watches him closely, a sneer on her lips.

* By Jove !' Nat says, to himself, as he quits the suite of Thaddeus and hie beautiful niece, * if I lose this game at all I swear it will be owing to that green eyed maid. Does she bate me that she looks so black? Or, another thought—is it jealousy? More than likely the latter. I was a fool to kiss her in the hall—no, I wasn't, either. By theviitueof the jealousy that riots in her warm blood. I’ll make Belinda serve me yet : she shall believe I love her, and that it is Eulalie’s wealth I seek. Confound it! why can’t I get Phineas to wed her on the sly ? Money will do wonders. A clever idea to get rid of one who threatens to upset my frail cralt. I’ll see about it after this cruise is over.’

CHAPTER XXII. OVER THE CHINA SEA.

With the advent of another day, our friends prepare for departure The effects of Eulalie and her uncle are taken on board, and the young lady follows with Madame Anderson and her maid. They are delighted with the work that has been done on board. As fortune will have it, the madame at almost the last hour is taken with a severe spell of an old illness that will cause her to need the attention of a doctor for days and weeks; nothing serious, but a matter that will never admit of her accompanying the party. She bemoans the fact and declares her readiness to take all the chances, but Eulalie will not hear of it, and the lady is again removed to the hotel, given a good nurse, and every possible thing done that money can accomplish. As they are leaving, she whispers some thing in the ear of Eulalie and laughs—something that causes that young lady to blush furiously and playfully hold her hand over her older companion's mouth, while she looks fearfully toward the major—who has helped carry the sick lady upstairs—as if alarmed lest he should have heard.

The Nabob pulls his moustache complac ently, and to himself mutters :

’ I wonder now if Madame A. wasn't congratulating the dear girl upon her conquest. Just as likely as not. Well, my tine fellow, it is something ot a sight to see a chap of your calibre head over ears in love. I don’t care a penny who knows it—this i« a serious business with me, and everybody must clear the track when the great Mogul of Singapore makes up his mind to claim the right of way.*

Just eo, Mr Nabob ; and if they fail to do ao, somebody will get hurt in the colliaion.

Thia unexpected event, the .udden illness of Madame Anderson, together with some delay on the part ot Singapore merchants who are to deliver fresh meet and live fowls aboard, causes their departure to be deferred until late in the day. Gradually Major Max, who leaves Nat to make love and assumes entire charge of the responsible duties, evolves order out of chaos, and at length the last item is checked off his list.

They are ready. The sun is setting as they hoist their sails to catch the evening breeze, and then raise the anchor.

Quite a crowd of people have gathered upon the docks to witness their departure, for the nows of their strange mission has spread far and wide, and among the English population a deep interest is taken in the result of their venture. Cheers break forth, many handkerchiefs and sun shades waved, and they respond with a blank cartridge from one of the three brass cannon on board, which Thaddeus has readily consented to the major purchasing.

With the smoke of the gun rising among the fluttering sails, they begin to move through the water—the wheel is put to starboard, and gradually the breeze tills the canvas.

They are oft. The Iris glides gracefully through tho green water of Singapore harbour. Major Max has made no mistake in securing such a vessel to carry out their strange work. A feeling of exultation thrills them all as the voyage is thus begun. The cheers of the multitude on shore grow fainter as they glide merrily on over the sunset sea, and presently they can no longer see the waving signals of bon voyage. The myriad lights of Singapore continue to flicker in the distance. These are the Isst glimpses they will have for some time of the weird city of the Malacca Straits — the home of romance —the depot of aromatic spices —the bustling, energetic island city where the races of the earth seetn to strive in competition with each other, and England's little finger manages all—where half the population prove to be Chinese who have adopted the English ways of banking and doing business—a city that has no equal, as a curious conglomeration, on the face of the globe.

There is but one Singapore, and memory will often take the traveller back to its peculiar features when thousands of miles of green water lie between. Things begin to work smoothly enough, and there is no reason under the sun why they should not. Everything has been selected with care, crew, pilot, cook, steward, material for comfort in all ways, and regardless of expense.

When morning comes they are bowling along with a seven knot breeze. This breeze carries them along the coast in an almost due northerly direction. The Malay peninsula is picturesque enough, but travellers see very little of it—the disposition of affairs is such that treacherous weather may be looked for at most times of the year.

To rhe south-west beyond the great island of Sumatra lies the Indian Ocean—south east the Java Sea, and to the north the China Sea, separated from the Pacific by strings of tropical islands, tho Philippines and Borneo. Thue our wise captain, who has sailed hese seas before, is always on the lookout or bad weather.

He knows that coast—has even been wrecked upon it, and came within an ace of losing his life among the natives. There are no more cruel people on the face of the earth than the Malays. Not desiring to repeat that experience. Captain Webb gives the coast a pretty wide berth. If a tropical hurricane arises it will not find hm unprepared, and the ship is in splendid trim to meet ugly weather. Many are the councils of war held upon the quarter deck, as they continue to take advantage of the favouring monsoon, and daily push farther north. Alva Green recalls the most minute circumstances connected with thn escape of himself and Tom Thorpe, and a'reudy has the pilot declared he knows the very island in question—that he has put in to get fresh water, entering the same landlocked harbour the mate speaks of, where the vessel lay at the time the pirates thought to steal a march on her, and were frustrated through the warning given the crew by the escaping Green. If th>y can reach thia point, using it as a base, the mate feels positive he can lead them to the west of the pirates on the mainland. Then they have daring plana arranged, which, if successfully carried out, will at least disclose the truth, and the late of Eulalio’s long-loet parent be learned.

It is no small journey from Singapore—at least a thousand miles —but when bowling along day and night they make great progress.

The Gulf of Siam lies to the west, a mysterious vastness, keeper of innumerable

secret*. the scene of remarkable aflray* in the past. At length they eight land, and the pilot ai.i.juncw that it i* the cape they see with the glaaa—Cambodia, the tongue of tho great peninsula comprising parts of Siam and Anaar. the scene of France’s latest war. the country out of which the French hope to make a secund India. Having thus made oure of their position they change their course, heading farther into the north*eaat. and for several days continue to put leagues behind them. The charts are hourly scanned, exact observations taken each day. and the captain is (>ositive be knows just where he lies. It is on the ninth day after leaving Singapore. They have not made any remarkable time, being subject to calms as well of the favouring breeze, but it is calculated that to day they must discover the island Alva Green ha* told them about, unless the captain is decidedly out in his reckoning. At noon they sight land ahead.

• There’s your island.* says Captain Webb, confidently, as he hands the glass to his mate.

They can see it is off the mainland some distance, just as the shipwrecked mariner said. Intense excitement reigns aboard. The time for pleasure, for the playing of mandolin and singing of serenades and boat songs, is over now. Duty calls, and even the Nabob manages by an effort to look serious for once at least.

•Will we reach it before night?’ asks Eulalie, who has in turn used the glass. The captain, just coming on deck again, with a troubled face sweeps his eyes around the horizon, and takes it upon himself to reply :

‘I trust to Heaven we will.’ His .-erious tone draws the attention of all. ‘Why do you say that, captain ?’ asks Nat.

’That little harbour Mate Green tells us of will prove a snug refuge.* * From what—pray ? 1 see no sign of a storm.'

‘Ah! the glass—’ begins Alva Green, hastily. *ls falling rapidly—we shall have a hurricane before night, and it will be God’s providence if we can anchor in that snug harbour. If this breeze holds out three hours w e are sate.’

All are breathlessly interested. * Is it likely to die out, then?’ asks the major. For he ha* himself see the work of a hurricane in the Indian Ocean, and knows that even the stanchest ship may founder in the whirl of maddened waters; besides, their closeness to the land and island is dangerous.

It is for Eulalie he fears. Long ago, as a Bo!dier, he learned to school his nerves so that even deadly peril cannot make them auiver.

* All I can say is. it is precarious. We can only hope tor the best. Miss Thorpe, if you ever prayed for wind in your life, pray that this triendly breeze may not desert us for three hours. A calm such as precedes the hurricane would ruin us.* So, with all hands on the alert, they continue to move on. An hour passes—the island is in plain view, and hope revives. A low bank of clouds hangs along the horizon—strange to say, to leeward. From that quarter then they must expect the whirling spud and foam to come racing on. Oh, for time ! The second hour is at an end—the wind no longer blows steadily, but comes in gusts and then dies out, to blow again. Tnis means that the calm is near at hand, and the clouds have moved higher up the heavens—such blackness none of them have ever seen before—it is like looking in the yawning mouth of the Inferno — the lightning cutting weird figures almost con* »tan» ly. The island is only a mile or so away, and be tween Hie rocky jaws they can plainly see the narrow opening spoken of by Alva Green. It may be well understood that there are anxious hearts on board the good ship Iris during tho next half-hour, for it takes all of that to re»ch the aperture, such is the shilly-shallying wind blowing listlessly f.om this quarter and then from that. Now they are between the guardian rocks, and s«fety is assured, as they glide into the snug harbour that looks as though it were made especially for a haven against the terrib’e storms of the China Sea.

Choosing their position, they anchor. Then hasty preparations are made to meet the howling terror that will soon be sweeping across the island, laying many of the trees Hat. All the lighter spars are lowered and housed, and the vessel p'aced in a position to face the hurricane. Hardly has this been done when the darkness of night ingulf* them, though it is hardly three in the afternoon. They can hoar the distant singing sound, such a tune a* the telegraph wires play oftentimes in the wind, but increasing in violence, sweeping over the sea from the north. • Hark !* says the captain ; • that is terrible music—the hurricane is at hand.' ( To Le Continued,)

Visitor (picking op the baby): *So thia is the baby, is it ? Bless hie little tootsie wooteies. Kehee ! Watch me poke urn’s ribs.’ The baby: ‘Mother, will yon kindly inform me whether the deplorable condition of this person is doe to permanent dementia or spasmodic and intermittent insanity !’