“I don’t know where you’re going to sleep, Crunch,” Biff said doubtfully.
“Crunch not sleep—stand guard outside tent,” the Indian replied.
Biff turned to his uncle. “What’s Dietz trying to accomplish now?” he asked.
“Harassment, Biff. Stalling. Working out a plan. First of all, he wants to be around when we locate the exact spot of the pearl fishery. Then—well—”
“Then what, Mr. Keene?” Derek asked.
“Nothing to worry about, Derek.”
“You’re holding something back, Mr. Keene. I want to know the truth. I want to know what I’m in for.”
Charlie Keene spoke in a quiet voice. But his words were chilling.
“As far as he knows, your father is gone, Derek—if Dietz can get rid of you, then the claim becomes open again.”