“What’s the matter, Pedro? You’ll have the masts overboard if you don’t look out.”
A moment later the leader of the mutineers came staggering aft, followed by several of his men. He gazed at the wheel in surprise.
“Where has he gone?” he demanded.
“Down in the cabin, I guess,” said one of the men.
“No,” was the reply, “the companion is fastened up.”
“He’s gone overboard, that’s where he’s gone,” said another voice.
“I guess you’re right,” replied the leader. “Here, Antonio, you mind the helm, and don’t you go overboard, too.”
Muttering sleepily, another man took his place at the wheel, and the others moved off. Jack bent down from the table and whispered to the others.
“Now is the time to get the next one. You two stand by and take care of him when I pass him along to you.”
“Better be careful,” said Frank. “They are all liable to jump you.”