"Those are the orders," said Ronald staunchly, looking up to his sister for approval.
"I suppose you couldn't execute a secret commission for me," said John. He laid a gentle stress on the word secret. "You couldn't carry private papers and run a blockade?"
Private papers! Secret commission! Run a blockade! Why the good ship Albatross was just built for such nefarious trade as that.
John took the short story out of his pocket.
"Well, I want you to take this to the port of Venice," said he. "The port of Venice on the Adriatic, and deliver it yourself into the hands of one--Thomas Grey. There is a fortune to be made if you keep secret and talk to no one of your business. Are you willing to undertake it and share profits?"
"We'll do our best, sir," said Ronald.
Then the secret papers were taken aboard--off started the good ship Albatross.
The other mariner came up just as she had set sail.
"What cargo have you got this time?" he whispered.
Ronald walked away.