296 FOR THE FLAG

One of my fears is dispelled ; the fear that these vessels,
after passing within sight of the Bermudas, would con-
tinue their course towards the West Indies and Mexico.
They are there, motionless, waiting for broad daylight to
attack Backcup.

At this instant there is a movement on the shore.

Three or four pirates emerge from the rocks. The
watchers on the point are coming to the back. The whole
band is there complete.

They have not sought shelter in the interior of the
cavern, knowing well that the ships cannot approach near —
enough for the guns to shell the island.

In the cleft where Iam concealed up to my head there
is no risk of my being seen, and it is not to be presumed
that any one will come from this side. The mischance
might indeed occur. Serk6éd or someone else might wish
to make sure that I am in my cell, and at need to shut
me up there.

But what have they to fear from me ?

At twenty-five minutes past seven, Ker Karraje, Serko,
and Captain Spade go to the extremity of the point and
scrutinize the horizon on the north-west. Behind them is
the Roch apparatus with the autopropulsive shells, all in
readiness. After being ignited by the deflagrator, they
will start from there, describing a long trajectory to the
zone, where their explosion will rend the surrounding
atmosphere.

7.35 a.m.—Some smoke is floating above the ships,
which are getting ready to come within range of the Back-