THE SCHOONER ‘‘ EBBA”’ 61

17 with Gaydon, who accompanied him to the end of the
side walk.

What afterwards occurred no one knew.

The news of the disappearance was telegraphed to
Newburn and to Raleigh. In reply, the Governor of
North Carolina instantly telegraphed orders that no vessel
should be allowed to leave Pamlico Sound until it had
been subjected to the closest inspection. A second tele-
gram instructed the cruiser Madcon, then stationed there,
to put this order into execution. At the same timc the
most stringent measures were taken for a strict watch on
the country ports and provincial towns.

In consequence of this Count d’Artigas could also sec
the Falcon two miles to the east making ready to carry out
these instructions. Now, during the time necessary for
getting up steam the schooner might easily have escaped
without fear of pursuit—for an hour at least.

“Shall we heave the anchor ?” asked the Captain.

“Yes, since the wind is favourable, but let there be no
sign of haste,” said Count d’Artigas.

“That is right,” said Serké, “all the channels of the
Sound will be watched now, and no ship will get out
without having received a visit from gentlemen as careful
as they are curious.”

“Let us get under sail all the same,” commanded the
Count. “ When the cruiser’s officers or the Customs’ agents
have examined the dda the embargo will be taken off,
and I shall be very much astonished if they do not give us
free passage.”