But he had slipped away silently, and was standing at the stern of the yacht, speaking softly to an Englishman. The light of a near lantern would have shown anyone who knew him that the man was Harry Pentreddle, and he was just getting ready to lower himself by a rope into a rowing boat, which was fastened alongside.
"You can get ashore in that," whispered Akira softly; "and, later, I shall send the launch to fetch you."
"I can row back again," protested Pentreddle. "You won't be able to get away quick enough," said Akira mysteriously.
"Away from what?"
"Never mind. Do what I told you to do, and bring me what I told you to bring me. Obey my instructions implicitly, or there may be danger."
"But I don't understand, sir."
"You understand enough for my purpose," broke in the Japanese smooth voice; "and you know why I ask you to go ashore to the Hall to-night."
"Yes, I know," said Harry grimly, and spat on his hands as he prepared to grasp the rope.
"You needn't go unless you like. I can go myself. Well?"
For answer Pentreddle clambered over the taffrail and swung himself by the rope into the small craft below. As he took the oars, Akira's voice was heard again even softer than before as he leaned over the side. "The launch will be waiting for you at the pier when you come out," he said. "Lose no time."