"We will sign if you produce the document," said Barraclough curtly. "You'll sign, Phillimore, and you?" he said, looking at Legrand.
It had the air of a command, but what else could we do? We were at Holgate's mercy, and the act of signature could do us no harm. On the other hand, it might save us.
"Yes," I said reluctantly, "I'll sign, as it's come to that."
"I'll follow," growled Legrand. "But if I'd known——"
"Hang it! let's get it over!" said Barraclough. "You shall have our word of honour as gentlemen."
"It's a pretty big thing you're asking," said Legrand moodily. "I don't know. Let's think it out."
"And the Prince?" said Holgate; "he must sign. You can manage him?"
Barraclough frowned. After all, it seemed more complex now with the cold light of reason on the compact.
"Look here, man," said he, and I never was nearer liking him, "if you'll put us ashore within forty-eight hours after floating—and you can—on the Chili coast, you'll have a fortnight's start, and can chance the rest. Hang it! Holgate, take your risks."
Holgate showed his teeth in a grin. "I have lived forty years," said he slowly, "and, by thunder, I've never taken an unnecessary risk in my life—no! by God I haven't!" and he whistled shrilly through his teeth.