The Blockade Runner — page 21: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

aA THE BLOCKADE RUNNER. Another curse from the skipper, followed almost im- mediately by a fearful crash on deck. Another solid shot had taken effect, but the vessel’s speed was unchecked. The frenzied captain struck another match, but like the first it puffed out. As he struck the third, Bentham stepped forward and took him by the shoulder. The match fell and was extinguished, while Powell sprang to his feet. The two men faced each other in utter gloom. “Who are you?” demanded the skipper with an imprecation. “ Bentham.” “ What are you doing here ?” “To save you from @ crime.” “ Ourse you, what do you mean %” “T mean that I have just learned of the existence of a torpedo in the hold of this steamer, and of your pur- _ pose to fire it sooner than surrender to the cruisers. You are mad, cap’n !” “ How dare you dictate to me!” “You must not destroy this vessel.” “ Must not?’ hissed Powell. “Must not!’ said Bentham calmly. ‘ We are not yet stopped. Escape is still possible. We are almost over the bar. Your pilot will take her in, if there be the ghost of a chance.” “We are doomed,” yelled the skipper, “and [Pm going to rob the Yankees of their prey. Their flag shall never float over the Foxhound. I have sworn it, and mean to keep my oath!” “You are beside yourself, man,” said Bentham, “ We are not yet disabled.” Comiehgekssco