THE SCHOONER ‘‘ EBBA”’ a1

The officer looked at the ship’s flag, and Count d’Artigas
asked,—

“May I ask for what reason I have the pleasure of
seeing you on board my yacht ?”

“Orders have been given to visit all vessels at present
in Pamlico Sound, either at anchor or under way,”
replied the officer.

He did not think it necessary to say that the Adda was
to be subjected to a special search.

“You have, doubtless, no intention of refusing, M. le
Comte ?”

“Certainly not, sir. My schooner is at your service
from the top of its masts to the bottom of its hold. I
would only ask why the vessels in Pamlico Sound are
undergoing these formalities to-day ?”

“T see no reason why you should be left in ignorance,
Count,” replied the officer. “The Governor of Carolina
has been informed that there has been a case of kid-
napping at Healthful House, and the administration wish
to be assured that the men have not been shipped off
during the night.”

“Is it possible?” said the Count, affecting surprise.
“And who are the persons who have disappeared from
Healthful House?”

“ A madman—an inventor—is the victim of this outrage,
and his keeper.”

“A madman! Can it be the Frenchman, Thomas
Roch ?”

“The same, sir.”