human
Ah, what is that?
gpt
Why, they have either set fire to one of their vessels, or have blown up some fort or other. That may account for the boats' not returning.
human
I don't think that is likely, observed Colonel Gauntlett.
gpt
Captain Fleetwood would scarcely delay to attack the pirates with a lady in one of the boats. Would you, Mr Saltwell?
human
No, sir, I would not, returned Saltwell.
gpt
You are right, and I do not think the captain would; but still I cannot account for the fire, and it is a large one, or we should not see it at this distance.
human
I see no reason to conclude that Captain Fleetwood has anything to do with the conflagration, observed the colonel.
gpt
I wish we could see something of him and my little girl though. It is hazardous work he has been on, and I do not half like it. Couldn't you fire a few guns, to give them notice of our whereabouts? I don't see how they are to find the ship otherwise.
human
A sailor's eye is sharper than you may suppose, colonel, said Saltwell;