Moreas gave his promise and immediately disappeared below, to appear a few moments later, carrying in his hand a revolver, a piece of string, and a dozen medium-sized apples. Reaching the deck, he made one of the apples fast by the string to the wire rope that carried the awning. When this was done it hung midway between the awning and the taffrail, and afforded an excellent target.
"Have you done much shooting with the revolver?" Moreas inquired of Max, as he returned from placing the fruit in position.
"A little," the other replied.
"In that case shall we say thirty paces?"
"Whatever you like," said Max.
The distance was accordingly measured, and a chalk line drawn upon the deck.
"Shall we bet on the shot," remarked Moreas, taking a box of cartridges from his pocket and carefully filling the chambers of the revolver.
"Why not?" answered Max, still with the same imperturbability. "What shall it be? Name the sum."
"Let it be whatever you please," returned his polite adversary. "Since we are loaded with English gold shall we say half a sovereign?"
"Half a sovereign will suit me admirably," the other replied. "Perhaps you will commence?"