"Mr. James," said Walthew, "runs no risk that I can see. However, if you think he has a right to something, you can divide with him."
"No, sir! What you have given me is mine. But there's another point you've overlooked. The crew expect a few dollars, and it might be wise to satisfy them."
Grahame smiled.
"They certainly struck me as a hard crowd; but seamen don't rob cargo-shippers nowadays. Then it's difficult to imagine that you told them what's in the cases. In fact, the way they obeyed your mate suggested that there's not much liking between men and officers on board this packet. If there was any trouble, I don't know that they'd take your side."
The captain frowned; and James drained his glass again and then struck the table.
"Think something of yourselves, I reckon, but we've come out on top with smarter folks than you. Put down your money like gentlemen, and say no more."
"It's good advice," the captain added meaningly.
"Guess we disagree," Walthew said, putting the check into his pocket. "You haven't got your freight payment yet."
"Do you think you can keep that check?"
"Well," said Walthew coolly, "we could cable the bank to stop payment from the nearest port. For that matter, I'm not certain that you could take it back."