Meanwhile, to my astonishment, Captain Reeves, who was digging, had exposed no less than five iron boxes. I and he attempted to lift one; it was all we could do.
But it was getting rapidly dark now, for the full moon would not rise over the island until eight o’clock.
Then Miguel himself returned.
“O thank God!” he cried, rapturously, and verily the tears of joy were choking him.
“And you think,” said Reeves, “that Winkey, who I am certain is suspicious, is safe for the night.”
“I feel sure of it, uncle, for he could hardly stand when I left. The only fear I have is that he may let out our secret to-night.”
“Well, Miguel, now comes the tug of war. All that gold must be got off to-night, and we must weigh anchor before morning. I did think of waiting till moonrise; but after what you have told us, we had better begin at once.”
“I’m ready and glad,” I said.
“Here are a couple of revolvers, Miguel. Defend the gold against all comers until we return. Your duty is the most dangerous and difficult, but I feel certain you are not afraid.”
“I am not afraid, uncle,” was the calm reply.