The man who was presented as the sailing master was received by Roy and put in command at once, with instructions to be ready to get under way as soon as Ned returned.
He was not a particularly prepossessing looking man, but had the air of a sailor and was so highly recommended by Manuel that Roy thought he was very fortunate indeed in being able to hire such a master.
The engineer set about helping the machinists as if thoroughly well acquainted with his duties, and the negro began to wash the dishes, an action which endeared him at once to Roy’s heart, for of all the work connected with the kitchen this last was the most disagreeable.
“Do you think it was just fair to engage these people and set them to work before Ned came back?” Vance asked as soon as it was possible to speak with his friend where they would not be overheard.
“Why not?”
“Because we both agreed he should be the boss of the steamer.”
“What nonsense! We shall gain so much time, and the instant he steps aboard we will start out of the harbor. Come with me while we pay the interpreter, and then he can hail another boat to take him ashore.”
“The one he brought the men in is still alongside.”
“So much the better, for he can go at once,” and Roy went on deck, intent only on being under way at the earliest possible moment.
Manuel was talking very earnestly with the sailing master, but he stopped instantly he saw the boys and asked if there was anything more he could do.