“Here, I say, mister,” cried the skipper, “yew ain’t going to put a nigger as sentry over a crew o’ white men, air yew?”
“I have done it,” said Mark, sharply.
“What! going to keep them free American citizens prisoners below like a pack o’ niggers?”
“Why not?” said Mark. “Do you think I’m going to let you and your men hatch up a scheme to retake this schooner?”
The man laughed.
“Guess yew’re a sharp one, squaire. Wall, what are you going to do with me?”
“Take you aboard my ship, sir.”
“And hang me at the yardarm, squaire?” said the skipper, with a grin.
“Not if you behave yourself,” said Mark; “but I warn you not to try any tricks, sir, or matters may turn out unpleasantly. Here, Soup!”
He made a sign, and the great broad-shouldered black ran up to him eagerly.