These precautions taken by Smallbones, proved that the lad had conduct as well as courage.  He argued that it was not advisable that it should be known that this fatal affray had taken place between the old woman and himself.  Satisfied with having preserved his life, he was unwilling to be embroiled in a case of murder, as he wished to prosecute his designs with his companions on board.

He knew that Vanslyperken was capable of swearing anything against him, and that his best safety lay in the affair not being found out, which it could not be until the cutter had sailed, and no one had seen him either enter or go out.  There was another reason which induced Smallbones to act as he did—­without appealing to the authorities—­which was, that if he returned on board, it would create such a shock to Mr Vanslyperken, who had, as he supposed, seen him lying dead upon the floor.  But there was one person to whom he determined to apply for advice before he decided how to proceed, and that was Moggy Salisbury, who had given her address to him when she had gone on board the Yungfrau.  To her house he therefore repaired, and found her at home.  It was then about nine o’clock in the evening.

Moggy was much surprised to see Smallbones enter in such a condition; but Smallbones’ story was soon told, and Moggy sent for a surgeon, the services of whom the lad seriously required.  While his wound was dressing, which was asserted by them to have been received in a fray, Moggy considered what would be the best method to proceed.  The surgeon stated his intention of seeing Smallbones the next day, but he was requested to leave him sufficient dressing, as it was necessary that he should repair on board, as the vessel which he belonged to sailed on the following morning.  The surgeon received his fee, recommended quiet and repose, and retired.

A consultation then took place.  Smallbones expressed his determination to go on board; he did not fear Mr Vanslyperken, as the crew of the cutter would support him—­and, moreover, it would frighten Mr Vanslyperken out of his wits.  To this Moggy agreed, but she proposed that instead of making his appearance on the following morning, he should not appear to Mr Vanslyperken until the vessel was in the blue water; if possible, not till she was over on the other side.  And Moggy determined to go on board, see the corporal, and make the arrangements with him and the crew, who were now unanimous, for the six marines were at the beck of the corporal, so that Mr Vanslyperken should be frightened out of his wits.  Desiring Smallbones to lie down on her bed, and take the rest he so much needed, she put on her bonnet and cloak, and taking a boat, pulled gently alongside the cutter.