Floyd, quite sure as to the other's ability to take cover, remained on deck.
He could see the boat now clearly as she drew near across the starlit water.
There were four fellows rowing, and a figure in the stern steering. It was Hakluyt alone and unaccompanied by Luckman.
Hakluyt came on board and gave Floyd good evening, inquired if the crew were all right, and then came below.
Floyd, who preceded him, looked anxiously round, but Cardon had removed all traces of himself, and the door of the captain's cabin was closed.
"Well," said Hakluyt, as he took his seat and a drink, "here's luck to the voyage and a quick return with another cargo of shell, though I expect it is Schumer himself who will come next to Sydney. You will give him my very good respects?"
"Certainly," replied Floyd, "and perhaps the next time I meet you will be on the island. You are sure to pay us another visit."
"Maybe," replied Hakluyt, "and maybe not. I am getting old for sea work, but I shall always be glad to welcome you in Sydney."
He produced a pocketbook, and they went into accounts as to stores, et cetera. This business took them some half hour or so, and then Hakluyt took another cigar and talked on indifferent subjects till it was time to go.
He shook hands effusively with Floyd on deck, and wished him good luck again as he went down the side.