“You’re not making yourself clear, Captain,” Mr. Livingston said coldly. “Why not come to the point?”
“It’s like this,” the seaman replied. “I got a reason for wanting to go along on this expedition into the mountains.”
“We figured so.”
“All this loose talk about me helping the Revolutionists has made government officials suspicious. They watch me like a hawk. If I team up with your expedition, no questions will be asked.”
“Only a few minutes ago, you were trying to wreck the expedition by accusing us!”
“I was in a hank. A trigger temper’s one of my weaknesses. Now, if we can make a deal—”
“You’re proposing to trade on the Scout name. You want to move your hand grenades and what ammunition you have left under our banner?”
“I wouldn’t put it like that. I’ll go along with the expedition and give you the benefit of my experience. As I said, I got mighty good use for those grenades. If you help me, maybe I’ll help you.”
“You’ve betrayed Mr. Monahan by pretending you were sincere in trying to find his brother!”
“Who says I double-crossed him? Maybe, if you play along, I’ll lead you to Burton.”