Vance held three splinters of wood in his hands, and it was understood that he who got the longest should begin the work of watching.
By this arrangement Roy was to stand the first trick, to be followed by Ned and Vance in the order named, and, with one of the revolvers loaded ready for use, the former began to pace to and fro on the deck.
The clock had been brought from the wheel-house and hung in the after cabin, where a lamp was to be burning, in order that the sentinel might see when his time of duty expired.
Roy and Vance retired, and, worn out by their previous exertions, were soon asleep.
Although the watch was maintained regularly and each boy attended strictly to “business,” nothing of a suspicious nature was seen, and Roy began to think that perhaps Ned was a trifle too cautious.
At seven o’clock two machinists, accompanied by the interpreter, came on board, and Roy explained what was to be done.
He was not certain whether the engine had received any damage by its submersion, but asked that it be thoroughly overhauled and put into running order in the shortest possible space of time.
Manuel repeated these instructions, and the men went to work while Roy and Vance prepared breakfast, in which the interpreter was invited to join after it had been spread in the tiny forward cabin.
During the meal Manuel inquired particularly concerning the plans of the boys, regarding the port which they intended to make, who would be there to meet them, and, in fact, so many things that did not concern him as to cause Ned’s suspicions to grow stronger.
“Suppose you try to telegraph to your parents?” the latter suggested when the meal was concluded, and while speaking he kept his eyes fastened on the interpreter’s face.