They looked around, but, of course, found nobody else. Then Dick, Tom and Sam were tied in a row to three trees which were handy. Merrick took possession of their single weapon.
"I don't want you to hurt yourselves with it," he said, grimly.
"Merrick, this is a high handed proceeding," said Dick, when the gag was removed from his mouth.
"No more so than was your statement of owning the isle," was the answer.
"What are you going to do with us?"
"Nothing."
"I must say I don't understand you."
"What should I do with you? I don't enjoy your company. I am here solely to get that treasure, as you must know. I am going after that and leave you where you are."
"Bound to these trees?"
"Certainly."