There were tears in the captain’s eyes as he turned away, and both Barclay and Davie were greatly affected.
“Heigh-ho!” said Antonio, “I could have trusted Petersen with anything.”
Then he dashed his hand across his eyes, and was himself again once more.
CHAPTER III
THE DREAD STILLNESS BROKEN BY A WAILING SHRIEK
There were still left on board the Zingara enough hands to work the ship. From captain to Kroo-boys, as the darkies were called, there were just seventeen all told, leaving out of count Miss Leona and sweet wee Teenie.
Bitter were the tears the little lass shed when she heard that the evil men had killed poor Petersen.
“There is some good in that man whom children love, sir, I think,” said Archie.
“As true a word as e’er was spoken,” replied Antonio.
“And now, mate, we must see to ourselves. Davie must take the boatswain’s watch.”
“Poor faithful fellow, no doubt he was the first man slain!”