the head, was rendered insensible at the first of the action, and had
been carried on board his ship in that condition, from which state he
had gradually recovered until it was thought he would be able to testify
before the court at the present time. After a few moments of delay, the
man made his appearance, evidently not yet recovered from the fearful
blow he had received, but yet able to take his place at the witness's
post, and to perform the part expected of him.

No sooner had the court, through its head, addressed the witness, than
he answered promptly the preliminary queries put to him, while the
effect upon Captain Ratlin seemed to be like magic. Was it guilt that
made him start so, rub his eyes, look about him so vaguely, and then
sitting down, to cover his face with his hands, only to go through the
same pantomime again? We ask, was it guilt that made him act thus? The
judges noted it, and even made memorandums of the same upon their record
of evidence. It was observed as significant also by every one present.
Captain Bramble himself looked at the prisoner with surprise to see him
thus effected by the presence of his servant.

"For the love of Heaven!" exclaimed the prisoner aloud, as though he
could bear this intensity of feeling no longer, "who is this man?"

"It is my servant--an honest, faithful man, may it please the court.
Leonard Hust, by name, born in my father's service," said Captain
Bramble.

"Leonard Hust," mused the young commander, thoughtfully; "Leonard Hust!"

"Ay, sir," added Captain Bramble, somewhat pertly, "do you find any
objection to that name? If so, sir, I pray you will declare it to the