Flint nodded.
"We shall need our speed against the Spaniard," he commented.
"I shall," returned my great-uncle with some emphasis. "This brings me to my second point. 'Tis advisable that we do not cruise in company for the treasure. I aim to intercept the Santissima Trinidad before she passes from the Caribbean into the Atlantic, and to that end I shall hover on a particular meridian awaiting secret intelligence notifying me when she puts forth from her port."
The blue look became intensified in Flint's face.
"You'd leave the Walrus behind?" he demanded.
"I must. Figure it for yourself," argued my relative. "Two tall ships plying the narrow seas, within easy sail of Jamaica and the Havana and Martinico! We should have the frigates after us in no time. My plan is to masquerade as a King's ship, running from any ugly customers who show themselves."
"Aye," said Flint. "And after you'd taken the treasure and stowed it all below hatches what thought would you give to us aboard the Walrus, eh? You'd be up and off, and we might whistle for our share."
"You wrong me, Captain Flint," replied my great-uncle simply.
But Flint gave an ugly laugh. It might be the rum or the stimulus of the debate or a gradual access of self-reliance; but he was no longer to be cowed by moral suasion. If I had doubted this, the suave diplomacy with which my great-uncle proceeded to treat him must have convinced me to the contrary.
"If I wrong you, Murray, 'twould be the first time without valid cause," Flint rejoined. "Come, come! You must think of me better than that."