“I’m a-going to do just the same as Master Oakum does,” said Lennie.
“I’m on too,” growled the other, with what sounded a good deal like a curse.
“That’s good. Step over here then,” said the Cuban. “You are free men.”
There was another angry murmur from the prisoners, as they saw their party lessened by three; but there was a greater trial in store for them, for just then Oakum turned sharp round on old Rasp, who was taking snuff viciously as he leaned back and looked on.
“I say, old beeswax,” said Oakum, “now’s your time to make your bargain. You’re a fool if you stop there.”
“For heaven’s sake, Rasp, don’t listen to him,” cried Mr Parkley.
“What have you got to do with it?” snarled Rasp, angrily. “He says right. Your game’s up, and if we’re a-going diving again, I may just as well be paid for it as work for nowt.”
“Come, then,” said the Cuban, whose face flushed.
Rasp took a couple of steps forward, and the Cuban met him.
“What’ll you make it if I come and dive for you and get all the rest of the treasure? You can’t work it proper without me, so I tell you.”