"Oh, is that so?" said Floyd.
He could not make out all this in the least, but he determined to say nothing and wait for more indications.
"Yes," said Schumer, "it's most important for us to keep these fellows fit and well, and tents aren't much use against the rains, especially in an exposed place like the grounds over there. Seems like Providence, doesn't it, that fellow Luckman happening along with his building material just at the moment?"
"Schumer," said Floyd, "are you sure it's all right about Luckman?"
Schumer turned on him with a surprised look. "Why, what could be wrong?"
"Well, I could have sworn I saw the Domain in the harbor two days before I left."
"In Sydney harbor?"
"Yes, in Sydney harbor."
"My dear chap," said Schumer, "you heard what he said—what could be wrong? Even if Hakluyt were to try to get the better of us in any way what could Luckman do? Steal the pearls? Well, I reckon he'd have his work cut out, considering we are two to one. No. You have made a mistake. It was the Dominion you saw. Mind you, I wouldn't trust Hakluyt farther than I could see him, but it's against common sense to think that he is trying to play any game against us. You see, the crew of the Domain are all Kanakas, and not fighting Kanakas, either, but a soft lot; otherwise it might be different. Then again Luckman is off to-morrow. Oh, you needn't be a bit scared of Luckman; I'm sharp enough to smell a rat, as you very well know, and I'm satisfied."
"Very well," said Floyd.