Ensign Merrill — page 97: what you’re looking at

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

CHAPTER XVI. THE BADGER MASQUERADES. | WHEN Mark opened the chart-room door it was his intention to solemnly advise Blood of his impending execution, and that it would be carried out at sunset, thus giving the wretched man a chance for preparation. Filled with this idea, he stepped over the threshold and then halted, aghast. Lying stretched full length on the floor was the prisoner, his upturned face distorted with a terrible expression of agony, and the eyes wide open with a glassy stare which instantly revealed the truth. He was dead. A broken vial close at hand, still conte a few drops of yellowish liquid, told its simple story. De- fexted in his purpose, despairiug, and knowing the in- evitable end, he had utilized his last resort and escaped the punishment he so richly deserved. Mark softly closed the door, and sent one of the guards for Dr. Agnew. A cursory examination by the young surgeon was suificient to prove that he had been dead only a few minutes, but no mortal aid could now accomplish anything. ‘The poison he had taken was one made only in China, and possessed of the most deadly properties. After leaving directions to prepare the body for its last rest, the ensign, accompanied by Agnew, went below. : Ned was still asleep when they passed his state- room, and looked so comfortable that he was not awak- ened until twelve o’clock, the time set for the last rites. Promptly at that hour the engines were stopped, an American flag hoisted hdlf-mast, a gun fired to lee- ward, and the canvas-sbrouded figure launched into the deep, a peaceful and awe-inspiring end for what must — ° a i 2 ae - i wy ” %y “ 1 . . f ye 4 ee 0 See ¥ : ; at 7 ’ 4