In the meanwhile Burroughs and I had discussed the spy work that had to be done. My opinion was that the papers would be given to Inez, and if so, the difficulties would be considerable.
“Simmons is sharp enough to do it,” said Burroughs; “but I should suggest that you put both him and your man, Bryant, on it, and let Simmons rig himself up as a Portuguese long-shoreman.”
I adopted the suggestion and we sent the man out to buy the necessary disguise.
“I must be on hand to point out the quarry,” I said; “but the devil of it is, if she takes them to her house we shall have the trail cut and shall need to shadow every one who comes out. And that’s precisely where she is most likely to take them.”
“Say, I’ve a great idea,” exclaimed Burroughs, clashing his big fist on the table excitedly. “What price my offering to ship aboard that yacht, the Rampallo?”
“What’s that got to do with this sleuthing business?”
“Nothing, but you want to know what game’s going on on board her.”
“My dear fellow, let’s stick to one thing at a time.”
“It would be great though, wouldn’t it? I’d make ’em sit up.”
“Do you imagine for an instant that you are not known to belong to the Stella?”