words, and mark them well. From the curious scenes which transpired
awile ago on the deck of this vessel, in which you chose to act a
prominent part, I could draw but one inference, and that was, that you
was deeply in love with Arthur Huntington, and now I would ask of you,
if this inference is correct.'

'Had you any right to put such a question to me, I should not hesitate
to answer it,' replied Ellen, who by this time had attained a sort of
desperate courage which enabled her to bear up under the unaccountable
horrors of her situation.

'If I have not a right, you will now perceive that I have the might to
compel you to answer,' exclaimed Blackbeard, who having become by this
time, thoroughly infuriated, drew a poniard from his belt, and
advancing, towards Ellen, who sunk pale and terrified upon her knee, at
his approach, he continued:

'It is far from my wish, Miss Armstrong, to harm even a hair of your
head; but you must, (and mark me, I speak not unmeaningly,) you must, I
repeat, answer my question, fairly, and without equivocation. Do you
love Arthur Huntington?'

Ellen shuddered, and averted her head, but answered not. Finding his
fair prisoner was not disposed to reply, Blackbeard, exclaimed with a
horrid oath,

'I tell you, girl, that the pirate of the Roanoke, is not to be tampered
with. Again, and for the last time, I command you to answer my question.
Will you do so?'