“Guy, my son!” said Captain Grover, his face lighting up with unmistakable joy. “It does me good to see you again. Why, you’re quite two inches taller than when we parted at Bombay.”
“Yes, captain; I think I have grown,” returned Guy, complacently. “When did you get back?”
“Only last week. You are here almost as soon as I. Have you got through working for Mr. Saunders?”
“Oh, no. I am still in his employ. I went to England to attend to some business for him, and I am now in America on the same errand.”
“And does he make it worth your while?”
“Yes,” answered Guy, smiling. “I won’t go into particulars. I haven’t done that even with my father. I will tell you, however, that since I have been home I have paid off a five hundred dollar mortgage on the parsonage.”
“That is capital! Evidently Mr. Saunders is a liberal man; and I am sure I am very glad, not only for your sake, but for the sake of my old friend, your father. How long do you stay in Bayport?”
“That depends partly upon you.”
“How is that?”
“I may be your passenger on your next voyage.”
“You mean to go back to Bombay, then?”
“Yes; or at least in that direction. How long before you will start?”
“Well, you see, Guy, that isn’t an easy question to answer.”
“Why not, captain?” asked Guy, puzzled.
“I’ll tell you. I have been cruising about for about fifteen years without any vacation, and I am minded to stay at home for six months at least, more especially as my only sister is coming on from Wisconsin, where she has been living ever since her marriage, twenty years since. There are only two of us now, for all the rest of the family are dead, and I may never see her again, as she means to go back to Wisconsin after her visit.”
“I see, captain,” said Guy, in a tone of disappointment. “Of course, I can’t blame you, but it will interfere with my plans.”
“I don’t see why that should be, Guy.”
“You won’t need to. The Osprey will sail just the same as ever, but for this one voyage it will have a different commander. You ain’t set on sailing with me, are you?”
“I should certainly prefer to sail with you, captain; but the main reason is that I should be more likely to make the arrangement with you that I desire. Who is to command the Osprey in your place?”
“It’s an Englishman, Captain John Richmond. I have seen him, but I don’t know him very well. I am told that he is a thorough seaman, however.”
“I don’t doubt that, as your owners have thought fit to employ him. But the arrangement I want to make is a very peculiar one, and I should feel more sure of doing it if you were to be still in command.”
“You puzzle me, Guy. Heave ahead, and let me know what you are driving at.”
“You are going to the house, are you not?”
“Yes. I came down to take supper with your father, and I may stay over-night if he will keep me.”
“He will be delighted to do that. It would take me too long to explain myself now, but I will go back to New Bedford with you to-morrow morning, and then we will talk the matter over. One thing, however, I will ask. Say nothing of it to father, as I do not propose to tell him.”
“Is that right, Guy?”
“Yes. Father isn’t a practical man, as you know, and could not advise me in the matter. I have talked it over with Mr. Saunders, who is a shrewd man of business, and I think we can trust to his judgment.”
“To be sure! to be sure! Let it lay over till to-morrow, then.”
By this time they had reached the parsonage, and the minister welcomed his guest with unaffected cordiality.
“Well, Fenwick, you are not sorry you trusted Guy to me, are you?”
“No! no! my old friend! Nothing but good has come to him. He has been wonderfully fortunate, and has helped me out of what might have proved a serious trouble.”
“Aye, Fenwick, he is a good boy.”
“I am only sorry that my necessities have robbed the poor boy of his hard earnings. I have been blaming myself for my selfishness in accepting it.”
“Don’t worry about that, father. I have money left, as much as I shall need. Besides, I am still in Mr. Saunders’ employ, and am receiving a liberal salary.”
“By the way, Guy,” said the captain, “how much are you receiving?”
“I would tell you, if I knew, Captain Glover, but the amount has not been decided upon. I am sure of one thing—that it will be large. Besides, I am authorized to draw what I need.”
“It is wonderful that a boy of Guy’s age should be so trusted,” said Mr. Fenwick.
“True; but Mr. Saunders is under the strongest of obligations to him.”
“How is that?”
“Didn’t Guy tell you that he had saved his employer’s life?”
“No,” answered the minister, in great surprise. “Why didn’t you tell me, Guy?”
“It didn’t come into my mind, father.”
“You are modest, Guy,” said the captain.
“On the contrary, I might have wished father to understand that it was my business ability that influenced Mr. Saunders to offer me employment.”
The story was told, and it was clear that it made Mr. Fenwick more than ever proud of Guy.
“Besides,” added Captain Grover, “if Guy had not shown business ability he would not have been trusted with so important a commission.”
Guy did not tell the captain of the thousand pounds which had been given him by Mr. Saunders as part compensation for a share in the island treasure. He did not care that anyone should know the extent of his good fortune.
Besides, if things went well, and the expedition which he was arranging should prove successful, he hoped to secure a considerably larger sum. This, however, was not certain. But whichever way things turned out, the five thousand dollars were his, and he wouldn’t be expected to return them. Even if he got no more, he would feel amply repaid for his trouble in examining his uncle George’s chest.
Nothing more was said during the evening about business. The next morning, after breakfast, Guy notified his father that he would go up to New Bedford with Captain Grover.
Upon this the minister made no comment. He had come to look upon Guy as his own master.
Considering that he had already visited India and England, this was not surprising, although Guy still lacked several years of his majority.
On the way to New Bedford, Guy broached the subject of engaging the Osprey to visit the Agalegas Islands during her next cruise.
“Then Mr. Saunders believes in the buried treasure?” said Captain Grover.
“He thinks there is a fair chance of it existing.”
“Let me understand, then. He is willing to pay for the extra time the voyage will be prolonged in order to make this side trip?”
“Yes, captain.”
“I think it will be a wildgoose chase, for my part,” remarked the captain, slowly.
“Perhaps so, but Mr. Saunders seems willing to take the risk.”
“Well, he is certainly able to do so. He is a very rich man.”
“Have you any idea how rich?” asked Guy, with natural curiosity.
“I have heard it conjectured that he is worth a million pounds.”
“That is five million dollars.”
“Yes.”
“That is a great deal of money.”
“True. Of course, it is only conjecture, but it is just as likely that he is worth more as that he is worth less.”
“I think there is no doubt that he will be able to pay me my salary, then,” said Guy, smiling.
“There is not much doubt about that. It occurs to me as strange, since he is so rich, that he should take any trouble about this treasure, which may not exist, after all.”
“I really think, Captain Grover, that Mr. Saunders cares very little about it.”
“Why, then, should he incur such an outlay in searching for it?”
“I will tell you what I think. Though of very little importance to him, it is of a great deal of importance to me. I think it is this consideration that influences him.”
“And very properly, too, since you saved his life.”
“That may be, but I appreciate his kindness, nevertheless.”
A little later Guy asked: “Do you think your owners will be willing to make an arrangement for this side voyage?”
“That depends on two things: First, whether Mr. Saunders will pay a sum that will compensate them for their trouble; and secondly, whether he will be able to pay the terms they may ask.”
“There can be no doubt as to the last.”
“No; and this I will assure them. I have known for years Mr. Saunders’ financial standing, and his strict sense of honor. You have documents to show that you are his accredited agent?”
“Yes, captain. Besides, I can refer them to Mr. Frazer, his New York correspondent.”
“He, too, is well known. There will be no difficulty on that score.”
“Have you seen this Captain Richmond?”
“No; but I shall probably meet him to-day.”
“I wish I were going to sail with you.”
“So do I; but you see how I am situated. If you were willing to wait six months——”
“But I could not do that. I could not remain idle for so long. Besides, I don’t think Mr. Saunders will approve it.”
“Then we will drop that idea. I will introduce you to my owners, and speak a good word for you. I am sure if they agree, they will be reasonable in their charges.”
“How soon will the Osprey be ready to start again?”
“In about two weeks. By the way, Guy, I have a suggestion to make.”
“What is it?”
“Suppose you find the island and the treasure, you can’t take charge of it single-handed.”
“I have been thinking about that, and it puzzled me. What would you advise me to do?”
“I advise you to take two good, strong, reliable men with you who will be able and willing to co-operate with you in carrying out your plans. A boy, single-handed, would be at the mercy of designing or dishonest men.”
“I see that.”
“If you were sailing with me, you would need no one else, as I would see that no one interfered with you; but that cannot be.”
“Where can I find any such men as you speak of? Do you know anyone you can recommend?”
Captain Grover looked thoughtful. Finally his face lighted up.
“Yes,” he said. “I think I can find someone. I have a brother-in-law, Abner Titcomb, living in Vernon, Maine, who is at present out of employment. He is a blacksmith by trade, and naturally a strong, muscular man. I think he would be glad to accept an appointment, if you would feel authorized to pay him good, fair wages.”
“I would do so. Now as to the second man.”
“It will be best to leave the selection to Abner. No doubt he can find some personal friend in the village who will be as well fitted as himself for the work.”
“That strikes me favorably.”
“Very well; when you have made an arrangement with the owners, and it is fully settled that you will go, I will write to Abner to come right on and talk the matter over.”
“All right, Captain Grover. You are doing me a great service.”
“Do you know, Guy, I can’t help wondering whenever I think of you, a boy of seventeen, with such a load of responsibility on his shoulders. Why, only a few months ago, I thought of you as a mere schoolboy. Now you are the leader of a very important expedition. There are men who would not be competent to fill the place that has been assigned to you.”
“I am not certain that I am competent myself,” said Guy, seriously.
“I am sure you will do your best. You are not afraid? You have no misgivings as to the outcome?”
“No. On the contrary, I think I enjoy the prospect.”
“That will help you to succeed. But here we are at the station. I will conduct you to the office of my owners, John and Charles Gray.”
Captain Grover introduced Guy to John and Charles Gray, the shipping merchants, by whom he had been for years employed.
Looking upon Guy as a boy, they simply shook hands with him, and did not feel called upon to pay him any further attention; but when the captain explained his business they regarded him with curiosity and surprise.
“I can hardly believe,” said the senior of the two, “that this boy can have received such an important commission.”
“I am not surprised at that,” returned the captain. “It certainly does seem unlikely. I can assure you, however, that there is no mistake about it.”
“I don’t believe much in hunting for treasures, especially at the other end of the world. To my mind there is not one chance in ten of finding what is sought after.”
“Let me call your attention to this fact, Mr. Gray, that your compensation will not depend upon the finding of the treasure. Mr. Saunders, the boy’s employer, is a man of vast wealth, and he backs the enterprise. No matter if it is a failure, he will pay you what he agrees to.”
“To be sure, to be sure, that is important. If we are protected, of course, we need not trouble ourselves as to the result of the quest.”
“Exactly so.”
“The next question is, will Mr. Saunders be willing to pay enough to make up to us for the increased length of the voyage?”
“That is a matter for the boy to decide. Mr. Saunders has given him full power to act for him.”
“How much time do you think you will need, Mr. Fenwick?” asked the merchant.
“I have talked the matter over with Captain Grover, and have decided that I had better contract for two months.”
“And should the time be prolonged?”
“I will, of course, pay an additional sum.”
“That is satisfactory.”
“I ought to mention, also,” said Guy, “that I intend to have two men with me to assist me in taking possession of the treasure, if I find it.”
“Then, in addition to paying for the vessel, there will be three passengers, including yourself?”
“Yes, sir.”
“If you will call to-morrow, we will be prepared to submit our terms. We shall need to talk matters over, and estimate what sum we must ask to make ourselves good.”
“Very well, Mr. Gray. Then I will come into New Bedford again to-morrow.”
“No, Guy, you must stay at my house for the night,” interposed the captain. “It is long since you have been my guest, and my wife and daughter will be very glad to see you.”
“Thank you, captain. I shall be glad to accept your invitation.”
The next day, Guy, accompanied by the captain, called again at the office of the brothers Gray.
They submitted a proposal which, after consulting with Captain Grover, Guy pronounced satisfactory.
“Now that all is settled about the voyage, I will write to my brother-in-law.”
“I shall be glad to have him come to New Bedford at once,” said Guy, “and his friend, too. You may say in your letter that his wages will commence as soon as he reports for duty.”
“That will remove every obstacle. My brother-in-law is a poor man, and he would not be able to remain here any length of time on expense.”
Captain Grover dispatched a letter at once.
Abner Titcomb answered it in person. He brought with him a man as tall and muscular as himself, but probably about ten years younger.
Luke Clark was thirty years of age, and Abner Titcomb forty-one.
Guy was pleased with his companions. They looked honest and reliable, and in case he got into any trouble they were abundantly able to protect him.
Titcomb’s arms were hard and muscular, and Luke Clark, who was a farmer, was a good match for him.
Guy advanced the two men money to buy an outfit, and when the time came to sail all were in readiness.
It was not till the day of sailing that Guy saw Captain John Richmond, the new commander of the Osprey.
Captain Grover went on board the Osprey when she was ready to sail.
“Captain Richmond,” said the old captain, “this is my young friend, Guy Fenwick, who has engaged you to take him to one of the Agalegas Islands.”
Captain Richmond was a tall, dark-complexioned man, with a sallow skin, and an unpleasant expression of countenance.
“Humph, a boy!” he said, in a tone by no means cordial.
“Yes, a boy, Captain Richmond, but quite as much entitled to consideration as a man. He represents the wealthiest English merchant in Bombay.”
Captain Richmond shrugged his shoulders.
“I don’t half like leaving the direct course,” he said. “It seems like a crazy idea.”
He seemed determined to make himself disagreeable. Guy felt it, and he more than ever regretted that he was not to sail with his friend, Captain Grover.
The latter was considerably annoyed, and he said, sharply: “I take it, Captain Richmond, that this is no concern of yours. This young man has made a contract with the owners, and he has agreed to pay them well for the extra length of the voyage.”
“It strikes me, Captain Grover, that you are taking a liberty in talking to me in this style,” said Captain Richmond, angrily. “I am the captain, not you!”
“True; but I know the captain’s duties. The owners have made a certain agreement with my young friend here, and it is as his friend that I warn you that this contract must be carried out in good faith.”
“I will thank you to mind your own business,” retorted Captain Richmond, wrathfully.
“I propose to do so, and should you attempt to interfere with Guy in carrying out his plans, I will report this conversation to the owners of the Osprey.”
This was said so sternly, and in such a determined tone, that Captain Richmond did not dare to reply. He turned on his heel without a word and walked away.
“I am afraid I shall have trouble with the captain,” said Guy, when the latter was out of hearing. “I wish so much that you were in command.”
“I wish so, too, Guy; but you understand why I have taken a vacation.”
“Evidently Captain Richmond doesn’t like the idea of leaving the direct course.”
“No; but it is none of his business. That is a matter between you, representing Mr. Saunders, and the owners.”
“I think my being a boy may lead to his treating me with less ceremony.”
“The only thing to do, Guy, is to stick up for your rights. Even if you are a boy, your rights are just the same. Should the captain break the contract, you could, of course, withhold the money you have agreed to pay the owners, and this would get him into hot water.”
“You advise me, then, to be firm?”
“Surely. It is your right and your duty. And by the way, Guy, you will remember that you are not alone. You have two strong and able assistants who are not boys, but independent men. They will help you to enforce your rights.”
“I see that your advice to me was good. Had I gone alone, I am afraid my plans would have failed. Does the captain know why I want to visit the island?”
“I presume so. Probably he thinks it a foolish enterprise, and that may account in part for his cavalier treatment of you. Of course, it is none of his business, and you need not hesitate to hint as much if he begins to talk roughly.”
Guy considered this good advice, and determined to act upon it. He felt that he must deport himself in a manner which might be unbecoming in an ordinary boy, but was called for by the fact that he was acting for Mr. Saunders. It was his duty to guard the interests of his employer.
When he bade good-bye to Captain Grover he felt a presentiment that the voyage on which he had embarked would be an unpleasant one, and that Captain Richmond would make it so. But Guy had pluck, and though he expected a conflict, he did not fear it.
The first outbreak came very soon after the sailing of the Osprey.
Dinner was announced. Guy was, of course, to eat at the captain’s table, but when he entered he found that no seats had been placed for his two assistants.
“How is this, Captain Richmond?” said Guy, as he took his seat. “I see no places at the table for Mr. Titcomb and Mr. Clark.”
“They will eat with the sailors,” replied the captain, curtly.
“I beg pardon, Captain Richmond,” said Guy, calmly, though he was very angry, “I will consent to no such arrangement.”
“You won’t, eh?” snarled the captain. “Who is the captain of this craft—you or I?”
“You, sir; but my arrangement was not made with you, but with the Messrs. Gray.”
“These men are your servants. I don’t have servants at my table.”
“They are not my servants. They, like myself, are in the employ of Mr. Saunders, of Bombay.”
“I don’t know Mr. Saunders.”
“Perhaps not; but I do. I know that unless these gentlemen are treated with proper respect and consideration he will refuse to pay the sum he has contracted to give your owners.”
“I am an English captain, and do not care to meet common men on an equality.”
“These men whom you call common are as good as you or myself. One of them is the brother-in-law of Captain Grover; the other is his friend. But, above all, they are American citizens, and as such are entitled to respect.”
“I haven’t much respect for a Yankee,” muttered the captain.
“I won’t argue with you on that point, though I am myself a Yankee,” returned Guy. “I will, however, call your attention to the contract I made with your owners, the Messrs. Gray. It is expressly stated that these men are to be received as first-class passengers, and to be treated as such. Will you be kind enough to cast your eyes over this document?”
Captain Richmond reluctantly took from Guy’s hand the paper he extended to him, and looked over it.
It was as Guy had stated. Titcomb and Clark were designated as first-class passengers, and were to be treated as such.
“I am surprised,” said the captain, in a tone of annoyance, “that Messrs. Gray should have made such an agreement.”
“It is conclusive, however,” returned Guy, coldly. “Will you kindly see that seats are placed for my two companions?”
“It shall be done at the next meal. To-day they can eat as soon as we have finished.”
Though Guy might have demanded more than this, he did not care to make a fuss. He felt that in the controversy he had carried his point.
Guy spoke of the matter afterward to the two men.
“Why,” exclaimed Abner Titcomb, “the mean upstart! So he thinks we are not fit to sit at the table with his royal highness, does he? If I had him at my home in Maine we would soon see who is the best man.”
“I wouldn’t have consented to eat with the sailors,” said Luke Clark, “though there isn’t a sailor aboard that I don’t feel as much respect for as I do for Captain Richmond. But I know that he meant to insult and degrade us, and I have too much respect for myself as an American citizen to allow that.”
Though Guy had carried his point, neither he nor his companions enjoyed their meals at the captain’s table. The only other person who sat there was the mate, and he would often be on duty, so that he would not eat at the same time with them.
His name was Forbush, and he was a New Hampshire man, as agreeable as the captain was morose.
Generally there was very little conversation at meal-time. Captain Richmond addressed Guy, but seldom vouchsafed a word to Titcomb or Clark.
“I wish Forbush were captain,” said Abner Titcomb, one day. “He is one of our own people, while Captain Richmond has no sympathy for us.”
“I wonder why the owners gave the command to such a man?” added Luke Clark.
“He is an experienced seaman, and understands his business, so Captain Grover told me. I suppose that accounts for it,” answered Guy.
“I am afraid we shall see trouble before the end of the voyage,” said Titcomb, lowering his voice. “I will tell you what I have heard of the captain from one of the sailors.”
No one on board liked Captain Richmond. He was a surly, disagreeable man, who liked better to sneer than to smile.
He was a great contrast to Captain Grover, with his pleasant, hearty manners. Guy tolerated him, and treated him respectfully, but Abner Titcomb and Luke Clark repaid his rudeness with coldness.
They had the self-respect of independent American citizens, and would not overlook the uncalled for and studied impoliteness of the captain.
Captain Richmond had one redeeming feature. He was a good seaman. He seemed well qualified for the command of a merchant vessel.
He was strict in his discipline, but that is always required. Captain Grover was strict, and his crew liked him. On the other hand, there was not a sailor who did not dislike Captain Richmond.
Among the seamen was a young fellow of nineteen, from Castine, Maine. He was known to Abner Titcomb, who, while on a visit to that town, had become acquainted with James Low and his family.
As Titcomb had not seen Low since he was a boy of fifteen, he did not immediately recognize him till James called him by name. The boy seemed very much pleased to find on board one with whom he had had a previous acquaintance.
Titcomb was speaking to the young sailor one day when Captain Richmond came up.
“Mr. Titcomb,” he said, “what can you have to say to one of my crew?”
The tone was insolent, and Abner Titcomb resented it.
“It happens, Captain Richmond,” he replied, “that this young fellow and I are old acquaintances. I know him and his family.”
“That may be, sir,” returned the captain, with an incredulous sneer.
“What do you mean by that, Captain Richmond? Do you mean to doubt my word?”
“I would have you understand, Mr. Titcomb, that I am the captain of this ship, and I will not tolerate insolence from you or any other man!”
“There has been no insolence except on your part. I am a passenger on this vessel, and I claim to be treated with civility.”
He looked the captain straight in the face, and there was a look of determination in his eyes that made Captain Richmond, who was a bully, but not brave, think he had gone far enough.
“I prefer that you should not speak to any member of my crew,” he rejoined, as he turned abruptly away.
“James,” said Titcomb, “as I don’t wish to get you into any trouble, I will hereafter seek opportunities to speak to you when the captain is not on deck.”
“I wish Captain Grover were in command,” replied the boy. “He was a gentleman.”
From this time Captain Richmond seemed to transfer to James Low some of the dislike he felt for Titcomb. The latter was not in his power, but as James Low was only a sailor, it was a simple matter to make things uncomfortable for him.
One morning Low appeared on deck looking pale and ill. He had malaria in his system, and when he shipped he was not in good physical condition.
“What is the matter, James?” asked Abner Titcomb, who was struck by the young fellow’s appearance.
“I don’t know. My head aches terribly, and I can hardly stand.”
“Why don’t you report yourself sick to the captain, and ask leave to go to your bunk?”
“He wouldn’t believe it.”
“He would be a brute if he didn’t grant your request.”
“Hush! Here he comes!”
Captain Richmond strode on deck, and looked about him in his masterful way.
He noticed James Low’s slow motions.
“Be lively there!” he cried. “You lazy loafer! You’re skulking!”
“Captain Richmond,” said the poor fellow, “I feel very sick. My head is swimming.”
“Sick, are you? Sick of work, most likely,” sneered the captain.
“Indeed, sir, I am very ill. If you would kindly let me lie down for an hour or two——”
“Why, you lazy scoundrel!” roared the captain, in a rage, “I never heard such barefaced insolence! Up to the masthead with you, and stay there till you are ready to do your duty!”
James Low turned a look of anguish upon the captain.
“Indeed, sir, I am very sick,” he said.
As the poor fellow spoke, his face became of a greenish hue, and he sank to the deck, where he lay without sense or motion.
By this time Captain Richmond was intensely irritated, and in his fury he drew back his foot and kicked the prostrate boy brutally.
The poor fellow quivered a little, but he was too far gone in unconsciousness to make any other demonstration.
“Shame! Shame!” was heard from at least two persons who witnessed the captain’s cruelty.
He looked sharply around, and roared out: “Who said that?”
“I did, for one,” responded Guy, pale, but his eyes flashing with indignation.
“Don’t you dare to say it again!” cried the captain, with a volley of oaths.
“I did, for another,” said Abner Titcomb, coming forward, his face stern and threatening.
“You did, eh? You’ll find yourself in irons if you are not careful. I’m not going to have any landlubber interfering with my discipline. D’ye hear that?”
“Captain Richmond,” said Titcomb, “you are the greatest brute I ever came across!”
“Don’t you dare to say that again!” cried the captain, almost foaming at the mouth.
“No one but a brute would kick a sick boy!”
“He is not shamming, and you know that as well as I do.”
“I’ll put you in irons, sir! By heavens, you are inciting mutiny!”
“If you put me in irons, you’ll have something to put me in irons for.”
“What d’ye mean by that?”
“I mean that if you are captain of this vessel, I am a man, and I won’t allow you to treat a poor sick sailor as you have treated James Low.”
“You won’t allow me!” yelled the captain. “You’ll see! I’ll do it again for your gratification!” And he drew back his foot as if to kick the prostrate figure once more.
Quick and stern came these words from Abner Titcomb:
“If you kick that boy again, Captain Richmond, by the heavens above me I’ll fell you to the deck and kick you!”
There was something so resolute in Titcomb’s words and manner that Captain Richmond, furious as he was, was impressed in spite of himself.
“Mr. Titcomb,” he said, “I can have you arrested and imprisoned for what you have said.”
“If you don’t desist at once I will report your brutality to the American consul at the first port at which we stop, and demand your trial!”
As has already been said, Captain Richmond, though a bully, was a coward, and he did not dare to follow up his brutal treatment, much as he desired to do so.
“You may find that someone else will report to the consul,” he said, sullenly. “You will find, sir, that it is a serious thing to interfere with discipline on board ship.”
James Low moved slightly, opened his eyes, and seemed coming out of his stupor.
Captain Richmond bent over, seized him by the shoulder, and raised him to his feet.
“Now go below,” he said. “You will be kept on bread and water for the next twenty-four hours.”
James Low was glad enough to creep below, and the threat did not disturb him in the least.
Anything was better than going about his work when he was scarcely able to stand erect.
Captain Richmond, with as much dignity as he could command, went to his own cabin, and left the field to Titcomb and Guy.
“What do you think of such a man as that?” said Titcomb, turning to Guy.
“I never felt so indignant in my life! He is not a man, but a brute! You saved the poor fellow, Mr. Titcomb.”
“Yes; and I mean to shield him from the captain’s malice hereafter, for he will undoubtedly try to do him a mischief.”
“What would you have done had the captain kicked him again?”
“What would I have done? Don’t ask me. I would have treated Captain Richmond worse than he treated James, regardless of consequences.”
A strong, resolute man makes himself respected. Abner Titcomb had asserted his manhood and faced the captain fearlessly.
Autocrat as he aspired to be, Captain Richmond did not dare to go to the lengths he intended.
He made a show of maintaining his authority by ordering James Low below, and restricting him to bread and water. This was not, on the whole, a hardship, as it gave the poor fellow what he needed—complete rest.
Feverish as he was, also, the scanty diet was not, on the whole, undesirable. At the end of twenty-four hours he felt better, and returned to his work.
The captain did not molest him further, though he was seen at times to look at him with a contracted brow, as if he hated him. For the present, at least, however, he desisted from any further persecution, and as Low did his duty faithfully he gave his captain no excuse for ill treatment.
The weather was, on the whole, favorable, and in due time they reached the Indian Ocean.
As they drew nearer the group of islands, one of which, as Guy believed, contained the mysterious treasure of which he was in search, Guy became restless and excited. He held conferences with his two assistants, and managed to excite their interest, though he found that they were not so sanguine as himself.
“I have heard such stories before,” said Abner Titcomb, “and though it may all be true, you must not be too much disappointed if you don’t find what you expect.”
“I shall certainly be disappointed, Mr. Titcomb. My uncle’s letter was so direct and circumstantial that it carried conviction of its truth to my mind.”
“No doubt he believed it himself, but the sailor from whom he got his information may have been spinning a yarn.”
“You must remember, Mr. Titcomb, that he was on his deathbed. That is hardly a time to spin yarns.”
“True; and I hope his story was correct.”
“It was certainly natural. Granted that there are pirates, they would be likely to have a place of concealment for their booty.”
“I don’t say anything against that, Guy.”
The two men, though in Guy’s employ, were in the habit of calling him by his first name.
“At any rate, Luke and I are ready to co-operate with you and help you in every way to secure this treasure.”
“I don’t doubt that, Mr. Titcomb. I feel sure of your fidelity.”
The time came when it would be necessary to deviate from the usual course and make for the islands.
Not a word had been exchanged between Guy and the captain on this subject since the first day of the voyage, and he thought it well to bring the matter once more to the attention of the Osprey’s commander.
“Captain Richmond,” he said, one day, as that officer was about to leave the deck, “I should be glad to have a few words with you.”
The captain regarded Guy with an unpleasant frown, and said, sneeringly: “Perhaps you have some advice to give me as to the management of the vessel.”
“You are mistaken, sir,” said Guy, with dignity. “I wish to speak to you about the business which has brought me on board.”
“Very well. I will listen to what you have to say.”
They were now in the cabin. Guy took a seat opposite the captain, and began:
“I believe you know, in a general way, the object of my expedition.”
“I know very little about it,” said the captain, indifferently.
“It is desirable that you should know definitely. You understand that I wish to visit one of the Agalegas Islands?”
“Which one?”
“I can’t tell yet.”
“Then it looks as if we were bound on a fool’s errand.”
“No. I have a description of the particular island I want to visit, explicit enough for me to identify it when I see it.”
“What do you know about these islands? Are they inhabited?”
“I don’t know.”
“What do you know about them?” asked the captain, rudely.
“Very little. It is not necessary that I should know much. The main point is this: I have reason to believe that on the island I seek there is concealed somewhere a large treasure, stored there years since by a band of pirates.”
Captain Richmond laughed incredulously.
“That is an old woman’s tale,” he said. “And it is to find this treasure that you want me to turn aside from my course and waste perhaps a couple of months?”
Guy was provoked at the other’s words and manner.
“I don’t think, Captain Richmond,” he said, “there is any reason to complain of this. You, or rather your owners, will be well compensated for any prolongation of the voyage.”
“I suppose we are to be paid out of this fabulous treasure,” sneered the captain.
“No, sir. My principal, Mr. Saunders, of Bombay, is abundantly able to pay what he has contracted to do, even if the treasure proves fabulous, as you suggest.”
“So you talked him into a belief in its existence?”
“As to that, he thinks there is sufficient chance of its existence to warrant the outlay he has made.”
“Then I don’t think much of his good judgment.”
“It does not seem to me, Captain Richmond, that this concerns anyone except himself. It is merely a business venture.”
“How long do you expect me to cruise round among these islands?” asked the captain, evidently in bad humor.
“I can’t say yet. Of course, I shall want to make a thorough search.”
“And in the meantime the Osprey is to lie at anchor, and all on board are to fold their hands?”
“As to that I have no control. It may be interesting to you to explore the islands. At any rate, you will be paid for your time.”
“I shouldn’t like this thing to get out. I should become a laughing-stock.”
“I don’t see why. You will simply be carrying out the instructions of your owners.”
“What more have you to say to me, Mr. Fenwick?”
As the captain pronounced Guy’s name his inflection was sarcastic, but Guy did not expect courtesy from this quarter and he chose to take no notice of the slur.
“Were you ever in the neighborhood of the Agalegas Islands, Captain Richmond?”
“No; and I presume very few skippers have had occasion to go anywhere near them, except, of course, your friends the pirates.”
“I suppose it will soon be necessary to change your course, so as to steer for them?”
“I think you can safely leave that to me, Mr. Fenwick. Did you seek this interview in order to give me advice?”
“No, captain; only to have an understanding. Though you don’t seem to have a favorable opinion of my chances of success, I am sure you will help me so far as lies in your power.”
“Humph!” returned the captain. “I don’t know that I am called on to do anything except to sail among the islands, and give you a chance to pick out the one you are in search of.”
“If you will allow me, I will read you a short description of the island.”
“Go on.”
“It is well wooded to within a mile of the shore; toward the center there is a hill, or slight eminence, perhaps a hundred and fifty feet in altitude. The extent of it is probably five miles by eight.”
“The island seems to be quite large. Do you expect to dig it all over before giving up your search?”
“That will not be necessary. I have some directions as to the place where the treasure is hidden.”
“This seems very much like a fairy tale, Mr. Fenwick. Would you like my opinion of this man who has sent you on such a wildgoose chase?”
“You can express it to me, if you like, Captain Richmond,” said Guy, with dignity.
“Then I think he’s a blooming idiot, neither more nor less.”
This was said in a very offensive tone.
“I don’t think, Captain Richmond, that you will find many persons in Bombay who will agree with you in your estimate of Mr. Saunders’ character. Blooming idiots don’t, as a general thing, succeed in business as he has done.”
Captain Richmond listened to these words with an ironical smile, and Guy left his presence satisfied that he could expect no help from him beyond what he felt obliged to give.
Guy was not without fears that Captain Richmond would, on some pretext, decline to carry out his contract, and refuse to visit the Agalegas Islands.
A captain at sea is such an autocrat that he often takes indefensible liberties, and transcends his rightful authority. He can make things exceedingly uncomfortable for anyone for whom he feels a dislike or cherishes a grudge.
It soon became evident, however, that whatever opinion he might have of Guy’s enterprise, he didn’t intend to interpose any obstacle to his visit to the islands.
Abner Titcomb, though for the last ten years a blacksmith, was from the age of twenty to thirty years a seaman, and had risen to be a first mate. He could, in an emergency, have taken the place of captain and commanded a vessel.
He assured Guy, from his own observations, that Captain Richmond had changed his course, and was steering in the direction of the islands.
“That relieves me very much,” said Guy. “I didn’t know what the captain’s obstinacy might have led him to do.”
“He may still be able to thwart you, even after reaching the island,” returned Titcomb.
“I won’t borrow trouble in advance,” said Guy. “The first step is to reach the island. After that I will manage to carry out the rest of the program.”
The crew consisted of Irish and Americans, with one exception. This was Guido Leporelli, a swarthy Italian, who was, upon the whole, a good sailor.
He was short, and of light weight, but strong and muscular. He held little intercourse with the rest of the crew, partly perhaps because he was not a good English scholar, and could not speak the language fluently, though he understood sea terms.
Guido was, as a rule, quiet and well behaved, and had not incurred any rebukes from the officers. One morning, however, as Guy made his appearance on deck, he beheld the captain, in a furious rage, confronting the Italian, who in stature was greatly his inferior.
What the trouble was about, Guy did not learn, but it ended in the captain felling the Italian to the deck by a powerful blow.
Guido rose slowly. His swarthy face was pale, and his eyes gleamed with a fierce and baleful light; but he said nothing.
“Now go to your work, you dog!” cried the captain.
Only Guy noticed the terrible rage visible in the Italian’s face.
He spoke of it to Abner Titcomb.
“Captain Richmond has made a dangerous enemy,” he said.
“Who is it?”
“The Italian sailor.”
Then Guy related what he had seen.
“What can he have done?”
Inquiry showed that there had been no cause for the captain’s violent outbreak. He was in one of his fits of periodical irritation, and Guido, unfortunately for him, chanced to be in his way, and received the benefit of it.
“I shouldn’t like to have an Italian for an enemy,” said Titcomb, thoughtfully. “But it is Captain Richmond’s lookout. He may some day repent his violence.”
There were others who shared Mr. Titcomb’s views, but gradually the affair faded out of remembrance.
Guido Leporelli seemed himself to have forgotten his ill treatment. He went about his duties in the same quiet way he had always done.
As for Captain Richmond, he never troubled himself to think of the Italian. If anyone had suggested that he stood in danger he would have laughed at the idea.
He was a tall, strong man, weighing not far from two hundred pounds, while Leporelli would scarcely have tipped the scales at one hundred and twenty.
The weather was delightful; the temperature was warm and balmy, with no signs of a storm, and day after day the Osprey glided along under smiling skies.
“How are you enjoying the voyage, Guy?” asked Abner Titcomb.
“So much that I should like to see it prolonged but for one thing.”
“What is that?”
“I am anxious to reach the island so as to settle the question about the treasure.”
“You are anxious to become rich, then, Guy?”
“It isn’t so much that, but Mr. Saunders, at my suggestion, has invested a good deal of money in this expedition. I don’t want him to be a loser.”
“He would not blame you.”
“Perhaps not; but I should blame myself. Besides, you know how the captain has derided the scheme?”
“Yes.”
“I want to prove to him that he is in the wrong. He calls Mr. Saunders ‘a blooming idiot,’ and I have no doubt he applies that name to me, also.”
“Well, Guy, I hope you will succeed. I am not over and above sanguine myself, as you know. I have heard and read of too many enterprises like yours, and that makes me incredulous.”
“Still, you won’t call me ‘a blooming idiot’ even if I do fail,” said Guy, smiling.
“No, Guy, I think you are very far from an idiot. I should be more likely to apply that name to the captain.”
“Why?”
“On account of his treatment of the Italian sailor.”
“Leporelli doesn’t seem to bear any grudge, so far as we can judge from his conduct.”
“Don’t judge too hastily. An Italian and an Indian have long memories for injuries.”
Since the conversation already reported between Guy and the captain, nothing further had been said. Guy would have been glad to speak, but he saw that Captain Richmond was quite incredulous, and it would be like having cold water dashed in his face to talk it over with him again.
Had Captain Grover been in command, Guy would have had daily conferences with him, but the two men were altogether different.
Though he did not know the ship’s reckoning, Guy was of opinion that they must be very near the Agalegas Islands. He longed to ask the captain, but did not venture to do so.
It was Captain Richmond himself who broached the subject.
He was pacing the deck one afternoon when he met Guy.
“Come here, Fenwick,” he said. “I want to speak to you.”
Guy joined him in his walk. His heart beat quickly, for he felt that the captain was about to speak to him on the subject nearest to his heart.
“We are close to the Agalegas Islands,” said the captain, abruptly. “To-morrow we shall probably sight some of them.”
“I am glad to hear it, captain,” responded Guy, joyfully.
“I don’t know how many of them there are, but I judge there may be a considerable number. Do you expect me to visit them all?”
“No, Captain Richmond. If you remember, I read you a description of the one in which I feel an interest. That description is so minute that I don’t think we are likely to mistake it.”
“You don’t know the relative position of the island, whether it is the nearest to us, or the furthermost?”
“No, sir.”
“Humph! That is not very encouraging.”
“If you will excuse my suggesting it, I think it is likely to be the nearest.”
“And why?”
“The pirates would probably consider one island as good for their purpose as another, and would select the first that presented itself.”
“That’s all conjecture.”
“That is all I claim for it.”
“At any rate, I hope your conjecture is a correct one. I haven’t much faith in your enterprise, and I am anxious to be detained as short a time as possible.”
Captain Richmond left Guy and went to his cabin. Guy understood that he did not care to speak further on the subject.
Early the next morning, as Guy lay in his bunk, there was a loud knock at the door of his stateroom.
“What’s the matter?” he called out, drowsily.
“Matter enough!” cried Abner Titcomb, for it was he. “We are in sight of land!”
Guy sprang from his berth and ran up on deck.
There, at the distance of half a mile, lay a beautiful island, a delightful sight after the thousands of miles of ocean they had traversed.
But, best of all, Guy noted with wildly beating heart that it was well wooded to within a mile of the shore; and toward the center there was a hill, or slight eminence, perhaps a hundred and fifty feet in altitude!
It was evidently the island of which he was in search.
When Guy scanned the island, and saw that it answered the description given in the papers bequeathed him by his uncle, his heart beat gladly. His pride was interested in the reliability of the information given him.
It was on the faith of these that Mr. Saunders, his employer, had risked a considerable sum of money, and now it looked as if he would be richly repaid for his investment.
As Guy stood on deck regarding the island, Captain Richmond walked up to his side.
“Well, captain,” said Guy, “we have been successful. This is the island I wanted to find.”
“Yes, it is the island; but what good will it do you?”
Guy had not made a confidant of the captain except in a general way. He distrusted the man, and feared that in some manner he would interfere with his plans.
“I can tell you better after a few days,” answered Guy, guardedly.
“I suppose you expect to find an immense treasure?” said Captain Richmond, with a sneer.
“Perhaps so.”
“Then all I can say is that you are probably doomed to disappointment.”
“Why do you say that?”
“All these stories of hidden treasures are old women’s tales.”
“If I am disappointed,” said Guy, somewhat nettled, “you will not be a loser.”
“I wasn’t thinking of that; but I hate to see a man make a fool of himself.”
“Am I the man?” asked Guy, smiling.
“No, but the man who has supplied you with money to make this expedition.”
“When you see Mr. Saunders you can tell him so.”
“Now, how long do you propose to delay my voyage in keeping me in this out-of-the-way place?”
“As short a time as possible, Captain Richmond. I should like to go on shore at once, if convenient, and commence my search. Mr. Titcomb and Mr. Clark will go with me.”
“Very well. I will send you ashore, as you desire. I have this to say, however, that I shall not be willing to remain here more than three days.”
“I protest against this limit, Captain Richmond,” said Guy, indignantly. “The contract which I made with your owners says nothing of any such limitations. I am paying a handsome sum for any detention which my business here may occasion.”
“You are paying——” began the captain, with a sneer.
“Yes, as the agent of Mr. Saunders,” responded Guy, firmly.
The captain turned upon his heel and left Guy, but he gave orders that the long-boat should be lowered, and in five minutes Guy and his two assistants were on their way to the island.
The Osprey anchored about a hundred yards from the shore, in order not to get into too shallow water. The boat trip was, therefore, a brief one.
It was a beautiful morning. The island smiled in the bright rays of a tropical sun, and the luxuriant vegetation that covered the hills and plains made it look very attractive.
“This is a charming spot, Guy,” said Abner Titcomb. “The pirates knew what they were about when they selected it.”
“I imagine they cared very little for its appearance,” said Guy. “It seems to be the nearest of the islands, and, therefore, the most accessible.”
“If I were well provided with comforts, I shouldn’t object to spending a few months here,” said Luke Clark.
“Nor I, if at the end of that time I could get off and sail for home.”
They made for a little, sandy beach on the south shore, and one of the sailors, leaping out of the boat, hauled it upon the beach. Guy and his two assistants sprang out.
“When do you want us to come back?” asked the boatswain.
Guy took out his watch.
“We shall spend the day on the island,” he said. “You can come for us at six o’clock.”
“But we shall get hungry before that,” objected Titcomb.
“I thought of that, and asked the steward to put up some lunch for us,” answered Guy, pointing to a square package wrapped in stout paper.
“We shall want drink, also.”
“It will be strange if we can’t find a spring on the island.”
Guy and his two friends stood on the shore and watched the boat as it was rowed back to the ship.
“I can understand the feelings of Robinson Crusoe,” Guy said. “Here we are many thousand miles from home, on an island which has not even a name, so far as I know.”
“True; but there’s our ship, ready to carry us away when we choose. That makes the difference between us and Crusoe.”
“I should prefer that there should be a difference. I don’t care to feel myself a prisoner here.”
“What are your plans for the day, Guy? You are the leader of our expedition. Shall we begin our search for the treasure immediately?”
“To-day let us simply be explorers. I should like to see something of the island. Suppose we strike for the woods.”
“Just as you say. We shall have a delightful walk.”
The woods began about a mile from the beach, but there were scattered trees on the way.
On their branches were birds of strange plumage. They were singing, but the songs were unlike any that the three explorers had heard in America.
There were flowers, also, for on this far-away island it was the season of blooming, and their fragrance perfumed the air.
“I wonder if there are any inhabitants?” said Luke Clark.
“Probably there are no white inhabitants, and I hope there are none of a different race. They might prove dangerous, and interfere with our plans.”
“It almost seems a waste of productive power that such a delightful island should be uninhabited,” said Abner Titcomb. “Suppose it were within a few miles of Boston or New York, or near Portland, how it would attract visitors.”
“Like Peak’s Island,” suggested Luke Clark.
“Where is that?” asked Guy.
“Three miles from Portland. It is much smaller than this, but it attracts many visitors in the summer.”
“Unfortunately, we can’t move this island. Indeed, I shouldn’t want to till I have found the treasure.”
They reached the edge of the woods and plunged in. There was very little underbrush, but the trees rose straight and erect, branching at a considerable distance from the ground.
“What a fine grove for a camp meeting,” said Luke Clark. “Do you know how far the trees reach back, Guy?”
“Three or four miles, according to my description.”
“Shall we push through?”
“Yes. Back of the woods rises the small hill indicated on my plan of the island. I propose that we ascend that, and take a general view. It may be high enough for us to see the shore on the other side.”
It was not a work of difficulty to reach the hill and ascend it.
The rise was gradual, and the hill was comparatively bare of trees. Thus far they had discovered nothing that indicated any previous occupation by white men; but now on the summit of the hill they saw a pole looking somewhat like a telegraph pole.
“Do you see that, Guy?” said Abner Titcomb.
“Yes.”
“That must have been placed there by white visitors.”
“Probably by some of the pirates of whom my uncle speaks.”
“Yes; and so far it is a confirmation of his story.”
“You are right. It should be looked upon as encouraging.”
There was something else that suggested former visits. On the top of the hill, a hundred feet from the pole, was a rude seat made by a plank resting upon supports at either end.