Of course he had. I had remembered this at first, and then, under the sway of memories evoked by Paul’s words, forgotten it again. I turned back and re-entered the house.
“Paul, what was the good of those promises,” I asked, “when you have already told that officer?”
“I gave him but a hint; I will soon make him believe that I lied to get away from here. If not, rather than that he should bring you harm I will cant him overboard some dark night.”
I left Paul in a most undecided frame of mind. When I reached my house I found the evening meal ready, but neither Zolca nor I had much appetite.
“Deedrick,” said Azolta suddenly, “why did you not kill that man to-day?”
“Yes, why?” added Zolca. “You could have done it at any time.”
I gazed at them for a moment in surprise. Then I remembered their training.
“It was better not,” I answered. “We must keep friends with the captain.”
I passed a restless night, and early in the morning went down to the beach. The ship swung at her anchor, and I could not help feasting my eyes on her familiar outline, and ceased to wonder at the infatuation of poor Paul. I began to feel something of it myself.
Zolca joined me, and fell to talking about the vessel, and I told him about the sails and their management. Then we took a canoe, and went on board to ask the captain to breakfast. He readily agreed, and after being introduced to the first officer, Herr Vanstrooken, we left for the shore.