68 FOR THE FLAG

When the boat was no more than half a cable-length
away, one of the men rose and waved a flag.

“ Signal to stop,” said Serké.

“Presumably,” said the Count.

“Ordered to wait.”

“ Let us wait.”

Captain Spade gave orders to lie-to, and these were
instantly carried out. Presently the da moved only
to the sway of the tide, which bore her towards the
channel.

A few strokes brought the Falcon’s boat alongside the
Ebba. The ladder was lowered, and presently the two
officers, followed by eight men, stcod on the deck, two
sailors remaining in charge of the boat.

The £d4a’s crew ranged themselves in a line near the
forecastle.

The superior officer, a ship’s lieutenant, advanced
towards the owner of the yacht, who had just risen to
salute him, and the following questions and answers were
exchanged.

“This schooner belongs to Count. d’Artigas, whom I
have the honour of addressing ?”

EAC S oe

“Her name?”

“The £bba.”

“Her captain?”

“Captain Spade.”

“ His nationality ?”

“Tndo-Malay.”