"That man on board the lighter," was the reply.
Benstead cast a glance behind him, and said, "He's the man that spoke to me."
"I remember him—the villain!—I recollect him now!" cried Richard. "Yes—he is a companion in iniquity of Anthony Tidkins: it was he who brought me that false message concerning my brother, which nearly cost me my life at Twig Folly!"
These words Richard spoke aloud; but they were unintelligible to his two companions, who were unacquainted with the incident referred to.
They had no time to question him, nor had he leisure to explain his meaning to them; for at that moment the boat shot alongside of the lighter.
"Markham!" cried the Buffer, in alarm, as he recognised our hero who immediately sprang upon the deck.
"You know me?" said Richard: "and I have ample reason to remember you. But my present business regards another; and if you offer no resistance, I will not harm you."
"Who do you want?" asked the Buffer, somewhat reassured by these words.
"Your companion," replied Richard.
"What! my wife?" ejaculated the Buffer, with a hoarse laugh. "Do you know this gen'leman, Moll?"