“We’ll be no shield for a revolutionist.”
“You got me all wrong, I tell you!” Captain Carter shouted. “I’m not denying I used your boxes to haul in a little ammunition. I need it for a special purpose. What’s the harm? Your stuff is all here. I’ll set it ashore and no questions asked.”
“You can’t get by with it, Captain Carter.”
“I can if you’ll keep your mouth shut. You and your nice little boys!”
“The answer is no.”
“Oh, so you aim to turn me in, eh?” the captain sneered. “Don’t forget, Scoutmaster, you’re tarred with the same stick!”
“We’ll have no part in this ugly mess. From the start, your name and reputation have been a drag to the expedition.”
“The guns are in your name,” Captain Carter reminded him. “If they’re found aboard the Shark, your expedition is finished. You’ll never set foot inland—not one step. You’ll find yourself under suspicion, bound head and foot with government red tape!”
Ken had been peering intently over the railing. Not only had his keen ears picked up the sound of a fast-approaching motor launch, but he could see its outline some distance to starboard.
Jack too, heard the sound, and joined Ken at the railing.