assisted her to climb the rougher spots. They came to a shelf which was directly over the sea. They stood and gazed out toward the island whereon Dutch Gus was marooned. It was hidden by the sea mist.
“Let me see the package,� he said, fastening his glance upon her. “Let’s open it and find out what it is. Then, if it is ever lost we’ll know how to solve the riddle of the dye-cipher. I’d rather have it in my head than where it can be stolen.�
“Do you think we should open it?� she asked, thrusting her hand in her waist at the breast. “Don’t you think we can wait?�
“No! We might get stopped yet, Saidee. We don’t know where we are. This may be Denmark. The coast guards may search us.�
She handed him the package. He glanced at the strings and the seals. They had been untouched. He studied the name blotted by the sea water into a running smear.
“It’s all right,â€� said he with satisfaction. “Dutch Gus never opened it—but I’m going to. You’re my witness, Saidee. Here goes.â€�
He drew the German’s knife from his pocket and cut the strings. He ran the thin point of the blade under the seals. There were five of them joining the paper. He unwrapped the covering and held out an oblong box which was stamped with a small, “Made in Germany� mark.
Lifting the lid, he peered inside!
Her warm breath struck his cheek. Her gasp of surprise was followed by a disappointed cry. Her
hands raised and clutched the soiled ruching at her throat. She stamped her foot.