ere already in the fortress, the ship and crew in the
service of the Crown."

Perhaps Ragnar thought so too; but the great man was so much feared
that when he commanded no contradiction was ever heard.

It was almost the first time that Tuve had made an objection, and his
brother's scornful rebuke had roused his blood also; but still he
controlled himself.

What was resolved on meantime will be seen from what follows.

"Why, what is that?" exclaimed the lieutenant of the yacht. "The oars
are drawn in! He is turning,--on my life, he is turning!"

"He knew that we should catch him up," said Sven, delighted once more
to be able to indulge in his usual humor. "Fists and sinews like mine
are worth as much as four of them; and if we take Pelle into account,
they might easily recognize that the best thing they can do is to
surrender at once."

"Silence, you conceited idiot!" commanded the lieutenant; "this is no
matter of parley. He is making straight for us. The wind is falling;
it is becoming calm."

"What does the lieutenant think, Pelle?" asked Sven, in a loud
whisper. "Can Olagus have weapons on board and want to attack us?"

"It almost looks like it," answered Pelle shortly.

Meantime the two boats approached one another with alarming speed.

"Whatever happens," said the lieutenant, with icy calm,--"and the game
looks suspicious, you know, my friends,--would that the
coast-guardsman may not look behind him! The flag of the Crown may
wave over living or dead men; that is no matter so long as it does not
wave over one who has not done his duty."

"Yes," answered Pelle.

Sven spread out his arms in a significant gesture.

"They may be excited by drink,--their copper-colored faces show that;
but here stands a man who will not forget that his name is Sven
Dillhufvud. There, I have spoken! But, dear sir, do take care of
yourself. They have torn up the boards, and are fetching up stones and
pieces of iron."

"Yes, I see. If they attack us, take care of the oars. Do not lay-to
on the long side; but row past, and then turn. If they throw, watch
their movements carefully; in that way you can escape the danger."

The boats, which were only a few fathoms apart, glided gently towards
one another.

The lieutenant's command was punctually executed by his people.

"Olagus Esbjoernsson," exclaimed the commander of the Custom-house
yacht, "I charge you once more in the King's name to surrender!"

"O dear, yes," excl