"I know my friends, Don Cristoval. But what did the fellow want? I do not know all."
"Your spies are pretty smart, but I expect our colloquial English puzzled them," Kit remarked, smiling. "However, I was going to tell you—"
He narrated what Olsen had said and Alvarez looked thoughtful.
"Galdar must be nearly ready; he has been quicker than I imagined. What are you going to do about the steamer?"
"I'll wait until tomorrow. If my uncle is well enough, he must decide."
"But if he is no better?" Alvarez asked.
Kit gave him a level glance. "Then I will send Mayne orders to run all risks and start, whether his engines are repaired or not."
"Ah," said Alvarez with a bow, "Olsen was foolish when he tried to bribe you! I suppose this is your answer! Well, it is lucky that a fast schooner sails to a port from which a telegram can be sent. When your orders are ready I will see that they go."
Next morning Kit found Adam lying half awake after a night of delirium. The old man's eyes were heavy, his brain was dull, and the doctor, who came in, made Kit a sign not to disturb him. Kit went out and spent some time writing a message to Mayne. It was necessary that the captain should know what he must do, but Kit was anxious to give no hint about the importance of speed that others would understand. He meant to guard against his orders being read by spies in Olsen's pay.
When he had sealed the envelope and addressed it as the president had told him, he went down to the patio and found a peon talking to a guard.