"Which means that we have passed the line of that city," said Ronie.
"Exactly."
"Had we better try and land here?"
"I am in doubt. Perhaps young De Caprian will be able to advise us. There is no doubt but they intend to stop here."
This was now evident to his companions, and half an hour was filled with the exciting emotions of entering harbor after a voyage at sea. As they moved slowly toward the pier it became evident that they had been expected, for, early as it was, quite a throng of spectators were awaiting them, and among the crowd were to be seen a small body of troops.
At this moment Francisco managed to pause a minute beside them, saying:
"They are stopping here to take off one of Matos' officers. The island seems to have been turned into a sort of recruiting ground for the insurgents."
"Aren't the Dutch neutral in this quarrel?"
"They are supposed to be, but it is my opinion considerable secret assistance is being given the insurgents from Europe—particularly from the Germans. But I shall create suspicion if I talk longer. Above all, appear to be indifferent to whatever may take place."
"You do not think we had better try and leave the vessel here?"