"But I don't see anything to joke about," I said gloomily.
"Well, let me shuffle again—now take a look! When Smilax left with her order, I sent a note to the mate, telling him to bring both yachts down. Then we'll have to split the crew, and in the mix-up I'll see that you and she get on the Whim, while Monsieur sails on——But I see you get me! If you can't stifle her conscience before we reach Miami, you're a mud-hen."
"Great guns," I whispered, grabbing him by the arms, "we might sail——"
"All over the Gulf," he chuckled, giving me a push toward the water. "There's your Hellespont, son, as sure as Leander was a gentleman! Cross it now and tell her it's all right about that order!"
"My two days aren't up yet; I'm bound."
"That's nothing. Wait!"
He was off to the old chief's bungalow and reappeared with Monsieur, whose broad smile was anything but reassuring.
"You wish to relieve her uncertainty about that order?" he asked, coming up. "Certainly, my boy Jack, go and say what you please."
"What I please?" I asked pointedly.
"Why not what you please? She goes with me to Azuria—we have arranged it. You could not dissuade her now. Even could you, she knows she can not resist my authority. Yes, go and say what you like."