Cates—[Greedily.] The two o’ us—share and share alike! [Then shaking his head warningly.] But he’s a hard man to git the best on.
Horne—[Grimly.] And I be a hard man, too. And he’s not right in his head. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for a chance. Something may turn up—and maybe—
Jimmy—[Turning to them.] Captain, he come. [Cates and Horne separate hastily. Bartlett climbs into sight up the ladder to the platform. He is breathing heavily but his expression is one of triumphant exultation.]
Bartlett—[Motions with his arms.] Down with ye and git aboard. The schooner’s got a name now—a name that’ll bring us luck. We’ll sail on this tide.
Horne—Aye—aye, sir.
Bartlett—I got to wait here till they climb up the path. I’ll be aboard afore long. See that ye have her ready to cast off by then.
Horne—Aye—aye, sir. [He and Cates disappear down the ladder. Jimmy lingers, looking sidewise at his Captain.]
Bartlett—[Noticing him—gruffly but almost kindly.] What are ye waitin’ for?
Jimmy—[Volubly.] That old falla wife belong you, Captain, she make strong falla spell for wind blow plenty? She catch strong devil charm for schooner, Captain?
Bartlett—[Scowling.] What’s that, ye brown devil? [Then suddenly laughing harshly.] Yes—a strong spell to bring us luck. [Roughly.] Git aboard, ye dog! Don’t let her find ye here with me. [Jimmy disappears hurriedly down the ladder. Bartlett remains at the edge looking down after him. There is a sound of voices from the right and presently Mrs. Bartlett, Sue, Drew and Nat enter, coming around the house from the rear. Nat and Drew walk at either side of Mrs. Bartlett, who is in a state of complete collapse, so that they are practically carrying her. Sue follows, her handkerchief to her eyes. Nat keeps his eyes on the ground, his expression fixed and gloomy. Drew casts a glance of angry indignation at the Captain, who, after one indifferent look at them, has turned back to watch the operations on the schooner below.]