ere was the sound of
bolts being shot back, and a light shone in upon the darkness.

Don could hardly believe it possible, but it was quite true. In spite
of pain and anxiety, weariness had mastered him, and he had been asleep.

As the light shone in, Don could see Jem lying, apparently asleep, but
in a very uncomfortable position, and that they were in a low, arched
cellar, one which at some time had been used for storing casks; for in
one corner there were some mouldy staves, and, close by, a barrel, whose
hoops seemed to have slipped down, so that it was in a state of
collapse.

He had no time to see more, for half a dozen well-armed sailors came in
after a bluff-looking man, who crossed at once to the prisoners.

"Hold the lanthorn here," he said sharply. "Now let's have a look at
you."

He examined their injuries in an experienced way, roughly, but not
unkindly.

"All right, my lad," he said to Don; "you will not die this time. Now
you."

He spent longer over Jem, who roused up and looked at him curiously, as
if he did not quite understand.

"Been rather rough with this one, my lads."

"Couldn't help it," said one of the sailors; "he fote so hard. So did
this young chap too."

"Nothing wrong with him, I daresay," said the bluff man. "No bones
broken. All right in a day or two."

Don had been silent while Jem was examined, for he felt that this man
was either a doctor, or one who knew something about surgery; but as
soon as he had finished, the boy, whose indignation had been growing,
turned to him haughtily.

"Now, sir!" he exclaimed, "have the goodness to explain the meaning of
this outrage."

"Cock-a-doodle-doo!" cried the bluff man.

"It is nothing to laugh at, sir. I insist upon knowing why we have been
ill-used and dragged here by your men."

"Well crowed, my young cockerel," said the bluff man, laughing. "They
said you fought well with your fists, so you can with your tongue."

"Insulting us now you have us down will not save you," cried Don
fiercely.

"No, my lord," said the bluff man, as Jem rose up, shook his head, and
stood by Don.

The men laughed.

"You coward!" cried Don in hot anger; "but you shall all suffer for it.
My uncle will set the law to work, and have you all punished."

"Really, this is growing serious," said the bluff man in mock alarm.

"You will find it no laughing matter. You have made a mistake this
time; so now let us go at once."

"Well, I would