"The dago has me out-held, sir; he's due to cut me open a whole lot if I makes a move," called Broncho to the mate.
At this, Black Davis, who was half-way up the topmast rigging, pulled out his gun, and pointing it at Pedro, sang out:
"Heave thet knife overboard, or I'll fill yew full of holes, yew dogasted West Coast beachcomber."
Quick as a flash Pedro turned and launched his knife full at the mate. It stuck quivering and shaking between the strands of the wire shroud, which, as Black Davis leant forward, was touching the top button of his waistcoat.
It was a close call!
Pedro, helpless without his weapon, snarled round like a wild beast; then, with wonderful agility, drew himself up on to the yard, and stepping on Broncho's hand, before any one could divine his intention, he sprang into the rigging on the opposite side to Black Davis, and in a moment was up over the crosstrees and running up the ratlines to the topgallant yard.
"Come de-own outer that!" roared the enraged and baffled mate. "Come down, or I'll perforate yew."
The Chilian gave a wild laugh as he reached over before swinging himself on to the topgallant yard.
The bosun sprang into the rigging and hurried aloft to support his superior officer.
Meanwhile, the old man looked on impatiently from the poop, fingering his rifle nervously, evidently debating what to do.