For a moment the face of the seafaring man was a study. His name was Grabon, and he was part owner and captain of the Victory.
"Darnley has signed articles with me, for a trip to the West Indies and Brazil," he said.
"Well, he can't go to the West Indies and Brazil. He's going to the lock-up," returned Nelson firmly.
"What is he guilty of?"
"Of two robberies, so far as I know. He once robbed me of some money, and only a short while ago he robbed a news stand belonging to me and another party."
"Humph! What did he rob you of—half a dozen newspapers?" sneered Captain Grabon. "If he did, you shan't keep him ashore on that account. I am short of hands as it is, and must sail by the tide to-day."
"The trouble was all over ten newspapers," said Billy Darnley, quick to take up an idea that had come to him. "He says I stole 'em, but I didn't."
"I won't listen to such nonsense." Captain Grabon shoved Nelson back. "Let my man go."
"I won't!" exclaimed our hero.
"You will!" put in Billy Darnley, and wrenching himself free, he ran along the dock toward the Victory and clambered aboard the vessel.