But at day-break Morcar, who had again resumed the watch, observed some activity on board the Fairy. The Buffer and his wife were in fact making evident preparations for departure. They raised the mast by means of the windlass; they shook out the sail; fixed the tiller in the rudder, and performed the various preliminaries in a most business-like manner.
Morcar speedily communicated these circumstances to Benstead and Markham; and these three held a rapid consultation in the after-cabin of the Blossom.
"You are certain you saw no one but that man who first spoke to Benstead, and the woman?" asked Markham.
"Not a soul," answered Morcar. "But that is no reason why Tidkins should not be below."
"Certainly not. He has numerous reasons to conceal himself."
"But what is to be done?" said Morcar.
"Benstead must go and speak to the man," observed Richard, after a pause.
The policeman immediately left the cabin.
He crossed the barges and approached the Fairy, which was just ready to put off.
"Holloa! my friend," cried Benstead: "you seem busy this morning?"