defeating the scheme of
the runaways.

The boats were hoisted up at the davits, and the boatswain was ordered
to pipe all hands on deck. The principal looked calm, but stern, as he
took the position on the hatch which he usually occupied when he
addressed the students.

"Wilton and Monroe," said he.

The culprits came forward, hanging their heads with shame.

"I learn that you are the ringleaders in this movement. Is it so?"

"I suppose we are," replied Wilton.

"Who proposed the plan?"

"Wilton first spoke to me about it," answered Monroe.

"And you induced the others to join you?"

"Yes, sir."

"As the ringleaders, Wilton and Monroe will lose twenty marks each, and
remain in their mess rooms to-morrow. The other twelve lose ten marks
each," continued Mr. Lowington. "Young gentlemen, those who have engaged
in this scheme are not to be trusted. I have nothing further to say."

The crew were dismissed, and all the students were disposed to laugh at
the mildness of the punishment, compared with the enormity of the
offence.

"Mr. Shuffles," said the principal, as he stepped down from the hatch,
"I am very much obliged to you for the zeal and energy which you have
exhibited in the discharge of your duty. Not only was your disposition
to do your duty highly commendable, but your plans displayed skill and
forethought."

"Thank you, sir," replied the third lieutenant; "I am very glad to have
pleased you."

Mr. Lowington bowed, and descended to the cabin to finish his supper,
which had been interrupted by the event described. What the professors
said about the affair was not known to the boys; but Shuffles was warmly
praised for the moderate but skilful measures he had used in the capture
of the rebels.

At sundown, a shore boat came alongside with an abundant supply of
fireworks, which had been ordered by Mr. Lowington. They were hoisted on
board, and deposited in a safe place. At the usual hour, the boys turned
in to dream of the good time which these squibs and crackers suggested
to them--all but Monroe and Wilton, who had something else to think
about. The latter was disappointed and surly, while the former
congratulated himself upon getting out of the scrape so easily. Wilton
was very angry with Shuffles, who might have permitted him to land, if
he had been so disposed; and he determined to take what he considered an
ample vengeance upon the traitor. As soon as he had an opportunity to
speak to Mr. Low