The other three men approached.
“He’s gone all right,” said one, gazing at the spot where the leader had stood a moment before.
“Yes, he’s gone,” said another. “I guess it will be our turn next.”
Suddenly a cry from the water drew their attention.
“It’s Ferdinand,” said one of the sailors, “and he is swimming.”
“What’s to be done?” demanded another. “We can’t let him drown like that.”
“No,” replied another. “Francisco and I will get out the boat and pull him in. You stay here,” turning to the third man.
“What!” came the reply. “Stay here by myself?”
“You do as I say. We have got to get Ferdinand.”
Suddenly Jack was struck with an idea. He was well aware of the superstitious nature of sailors, and he planned to play upon it. He descended to the cabin and from the wall took a suit of the captain’s oilskins. Then he went back on deck.