“Is it safe to go so far in the tender?” Gil asked, in alarm.
“The distance to the coast of Cuba is only seventy miles, and, with a fair wind, we should be able to make that in less than twenty-four hours.”
“But why not take all hands?”
“I would like to if our boats were large enough, but with these cockle-shells it couldn’t be done. The only question to be considered is whether you will be safe here. Tell me what happened after you landed?”
Gil gave his father a detailed account of their adventures, Jenkins and Andy adding to the story from time to time, and when it was concluded Captain Mansfield said:
“Andy’s idea of using the rockets was a capital one, and I don’t think we need have any fear the blacks will return for some time, but if they should, your crowd is large enough to resist an ordinary attack. I don’t expect to be away more than four days, and you can surely hold out as long as that.”
“Am I to go with you, sir?” Jenkins asked.
“No; you must stay here in charge of the party, and the boys are to obey your orders as they would mine. Now we will see what can be done toward getting breakfast, and then set about making ready for the voyage.”
Andy immediately took up the duties as cook, and while he and the boys went for a supply of shell fish, Jenkins and one of the sailors started in search of water, for, now that the party was so large, a greater amount of the precious liquid would be needed.
Captain Mansfield lost no time in making his preparations. He was desirous of taking advantage of the first fair wind, and therefore everything was done on this day. Even the water and provisions were put on board the tender, so that it would be only necessary to launch her when the proper moment should arrive.