Startler

The sailors were giving the last touches to brass rails and cabin windows, and were coiling ropes into neat rings; and altogether the deck of the "Startler," with its burnished guns, presented a bright and animated spectacle, every one seeming to have some business on hand.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

They parted; and it was quite true, for after looking rather shame-facedly the one at the other, the ensign bore off his arums to the mess-room, and the lotuses were sent on board the "Startler" by the very next boat.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

A general feeling of uneasiness had been excited as soon as it was known that the "Startler" had left her moorings to go in search of the two escaped prahus.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

"Startler," the latter came slowly down the river with her rescued freight.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

The suspense grew maddening, as the noise of the engagement between the prahus and the "Startler" increased.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

On board the "Startler" the men were beat to quarters, and went through their drill in the cool of the morning, before hammock rails, the sentries 'rifles, and the breeches of the glistening guns grew too hot to be touched with impunity.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

So it was then that on board the "Startler" there was no little excitement.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

"Startler," whose hold was something like a conjuring trick, as it constantly turned out household necessaries and furniture.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

The "Startler," with her deck as white as hands could make it, lay looking smart and bright in her moorings below the island, her yards perfectly square, her sides glistening with fresh paint, her brass rails, bell, and guns flashing back the sun's rays, and the awnings spread over the deck almost as white as snow.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870

"Startler" off the mud, and round to the other side by Dullah's hut and the landing-place, if they were very hard pressed the fort could be abandoned, and, with the women, they could take refuge on board.

Middy and Ensign George Manville Fenn 1870