“Do so, then, my young friend! Of course, we will excuse you for so good a work,” said the captain.
Justin bowed and left the room. But, before leaving the house, he put his head into the bedroom door and looked to see if the rebel captain was ready for the interview with the Union officer. He saw Captain Spear, with his head in the wash-basin, engaged in a very much-needed ablution.
“You will be ready in fifteen minutes?” inquired Justin.
“Yes, or in twenty.”
“Then I will come for you.”
“Thank you.”
Justin hurried down to the beach where the boat was waiting, called the men to follow him and took them to the mountain grotto, where his provisions were stored; set them to work at its removal, and then went back to the house.
He found the rebel captain all ready to go in the parlor.
“You will remain here a few minutes while I go to Captain Yetsom and prepare him to see you. Remember that he has not even heard of your presence here yet.”
“And my sudden appearance might kill him with joy! Is that it? Well, go and break the news gently, Mr. Rosenthal,” laughed the rebel, sarcastically.