"Who tied you to the tree, lad?" he asked.
"Did Captain Haley send you for me?" asked Robert first, for he had made up his mind in that case not to expose him.
"No; I stole one of the ship's boats, and came for you without leave."
"The captain didn't know of your coming?"
"No; I asked his leave, and he wouldn't give it."
"It was Captain Haley that tied me here," said Robert, his scruples removed.
"What did he do that for, lad?"
"It's a long story, Bates. It's because he hates me, and wishes me harm. Untie these cords, and I'll tell you all about it."
"That I'll do in a jiffy, my lad. I'm an old sailor and I can untie knots as well as tie them."
In five minutes Robert was free. He stretched his limbs, with a feeling of great relief, and then turned to Bates, whose hand he grasped.