It was determined that as the ship was now an unmanageable hulk, they should first seize all the gold and pearls—with as little bloodshed as possible; then leave in two of the boats, and make their way to the nearest island. Here it would be easy to explain that they were the only survivors of a merchant ship—the Juno, for example—and so secure a passage to London.
“As soon’s daylight comes in the work begins,” said the evil Finn, feeling the edge of his knife, and smiling grimly to himself.
“Ah! here comes Johnnie,” cried Petersen.
“Now, Johnnie, what about the grog?”
“Which I never axed for it,” was the quiet reply.
“Never asked for it,” cried the leader. “Go back at once and tell them from me, that if the rum is not at once handed out we’ll commence shooting through the door.”
“Don’t try to fool with us,” said another fellow, “else we’ll knife you, sure’s your name is John.”
“Ay, that will we,” from several.
“Look ’ere,” replied the boy. “Which I’se doin’ all for the best. Listen—I knows Captain Antonio, and he is as wise and wicked as——”
He pointed with his finger downwards, instead of completing the sentence.