“We’ve got crew enough, and in a small craft like this, you would only be in the way.”
Then the mate gave orders that the sailors should return with the boat, and the little craft was headed for the shore once more, while the newcomers covertly examined the yacht, as if they had a personal interest in her sea-going qualities.
The captain appeared to be so disturbed in mind that neither Gil nor Nelse ventured to ask him any questions relative to the men whom he was taking off the key; the boys stood amidships, where they could see all that was going on, and as Captain Mansfield paced to and fro, only stopping now and then to exchange a few words with Mr. Jenkins, Nelse whispered:
“I don’t think your father is any too well pleased at having so many people aboard.”
“I’m certain he isn’t, and can’t wonder at it. They are a tough-looking set, and could make no end of trouble, if they were so disposed.”
By this time the second load had come from the key, and were no more prepossessing in appearance than the first arrivals.
Captain Mansfield questioned them sharply, receiving in substance the same replies as from the others, and when the boat was headed for the shore again, he called Mr. Jenkins to him.
Eager to know what was said, Gil motioned Nelse to follow him, and the two went aft where the conversation could be overheard.
“What do you think of the story they tell?” Captain Mansfield asked his mate.
“It isn’t reasonable, and I believe it has been cooked up for our especial benefit. That all the officers of a brig should abandon the crew doesn’t sound reasonable.”