Tom took the proffered hand—not too limply, either.
“I hope I’ve lulled the fellow’s suspicion until I can strike,” thought the young sailing master.
While Oliver Dixon said hurriedly to himself:
“This fellow was dangerous, but now I begin to think he’s a fool. If I can keep him lulled for a few days more I may have all my lines laid. Then I can laugh at him—or pay someone to beat him properly!”
Diplomatic Tom! Crafty Dixon!
The ladies had come on deck.
CHAPTER XX
AN INNOCENT EAVESDROPPER
DOWN at Port Tampa, out in the bay, lay the “Restless” at anchor.