As the Columbia drew closer to Nagasaki both Peterson and Shamhaven grew more anxious over what was to become of them. Neither desired a term in a Japanese prison, and both wondered what sort of a charge Captain Ponsberry and the captain of the Japanese warship would prefer against them.
So far Captain Ponsberry had allowed them their liberty, but through the talk of a couple of sailors they presently learned that they were to be cast into the ship's brig and placed under guard as soon as the schooner dropped anchor.
"This looks black for us," said Shamhaven, moodily. "I wish we were out of it."
"I haf a plan got, yes," answered Peterson.
"To get away?"
The other nodded.
"Then let me hear the plan by all means, Peterson."
"It vos—vot you call him—risky, yes. Maype ve get shot—you no like him, no?"
"Of course I don't want to get shot. But what is your plan?"
"So soon like de ship come up by der harbor we vatch our chances an' trop oferpoard, yes."