He had to slow down, or he would be useless. If he had any brains, he would find a policeman, but Heath feared if he dallied, he’d be too late. Something told him the situation was urgent.
His cane thumped each step as he walked down the row of vessels, looking at the names etched on the sides. Up ahead he saw it, The Starfire. It was a medium-sized vessel. Heath waited to see if anyone was on board. After a few minutes, and seeing that no one was about, he decided to investigate.
The planks creaked as he stepped on board. A rush of familiarity hit him. His body immediately accommodated to the gentle sway of the waves, cradling the boat. First, he went to the bow. There wasn’t much, just some ropes, an empty barrel, but nothing suspicious. Next, he went towards the stern. Heath was halfway there when he heard footsteps. A figure emerged from the cargo hold. He only saw his back at first, but when the man turned around, Heath was astonished to see Miss Wilcott’s mystery man. It was all making sense, but it wasn’t a pretty picture.
“Who are you?” The fellow asked with a French accent.
Time to put on a performance. “I was told this vessel was for hire.”
“It is not, sir. You are mistaken.”
“Are you sure?” Heath stepped closer. “The dockmaster said you were one of the best haulers in Dover, and I have merchandise that I must have shipped to France as soon as possible.”
“As I said, you are mistaken.” The man’s voice wavered. “Now please, sir, I must ask you to leave my boat.”
He grabbed Heath’s arm, guiding him to the gangplank.
“I say, this is most unusual. How dare you manhandle me? Can’t you see I have an injury?”
“What?”
The second the man glanced down, Heath brought his cane up, knocking the bloke in the nose. The man howled and stumbled back a few steps, but quickly regained his footing. His gaze narrowed on Heath, his mouth set in a grimace as he charged. Thankfully, Heath was well versed in fighting tactics and sidestepped the larger man before he could land a blow.
Unfortunately, Heath’s leg gave him a shot of pain at the same time. He winced but kept his focus on his opponent. His opponent swiftly turned around and came back at Heath, swinging his fists, hoping for contact. Heath ducked from the right hook, but the next punch caught him on the side of the jaw, making him stumble. As soon as he stepped back on his right leg, he knew it would not hold.
Heath collapsed to the ground. The bastard came at him, his face contorted with rage. Heath flung out his hand, searching for anything to use as a weapon. Without a moment to spare, his hand fell upon his cane. Grabbing the stick, Heath waited until the braggart was nearly on him before he swung with all his might, taking the man by surprise with a hit to the head. His adversary crumpled in a heap on the planks.
A quick check showed the man was breathing. Heath backed away from the prone body. A commotion behind him made him turn. Two policemen were boarding the boat, followed by Wells.
“Harvey,” Heath shouted.
“Good God, man, what happened?”
He helped Heath to his feet with a grunt. “We had a minor disagreement, but I think I persuaded him to stay.”
Both men chuckled. Harvey handed him his cane. Heath recounted the series of events.
“Detective, down here.” A policeman shouted.
He was standing at the door to the cargo hold at the bottom of the stairs.
“It’s locked.”
“Then we’ll have to break it down.” Harvey kicked the door several times before the hinges gave way.
There were noises inside. Thankfully, the other policeman had had the foresight to grab a lantern. The men entered cautiously. The noise was coming from the far side. Six girls were huddled together in the corner. Heath recognized one as Mrs. Baum’s goddaughter.
“Jessica?”
“Sir Heath?” The girl reached out, but hesitated, like she was afraid it was a dream.
“We’re here. You’ll be all right.”
The young girl threw herself into Heath’s arms, sobs shaking her body.
“Come on, let’s get you out of here.”
He led Jessica up the stairs. They were just at the gangplank when Miss Wilcott appeared with two girls in hand. Her eyes went wide as she tried to push the girls behind her.