"Not now, not now," said Merriman quickly.
The other gentlemen, during this dialogue, had been discussing the information they had gained about Gheria.
"Well," said Clive, "you are lucky, let me tell you, Mr. Burke, to be out of this Diggle's clutches. By the way, have you seen him since he sold you to the Pirate?"
"He came a few days before I escaped, and wanted me to come here as a spy. Angria promised me my freedom and a large sum of money."
"What's that?" cried Merriman. "Wanted you to come as a spy?"
"Yes, sir."
"And what did you say?"
"I told him he might do it himself."
"A palpable hit!" said Merriman with a grim laugh, "and a very proper answer. But he'll have more respect for his skin."
"Gentlemen," put in Mr. Bourchier, "we have kept Mr. Burke talking so much that he hasn't had a mouthful of food. I think we might go out on the veranda and smoke our cheroots while he takes some supper. Mr. Johnson, you've done most justice to my viands, I think. Perhaps you will join us."