“Of course I do. The captain likes young people. You two boys are smart and bright, and he is going to make you members of the band.”
“He can’t! I’ll die first!” exclaimed Harry, with suppressed energy.
“You will see. But hush! don’t speak so loud. For my part I shall be very glad to have you among us.”
At this moment their companion was called away, and Harry, bending toward Jack, whispered in his ear: “I am afraid he is right about the captain’s intentions. We must try to escape as soon as there is any chance.”
“I’m with you,” Jack whispered back.
CHAPTER VII
A TRIAL AND ITS TRAGIC FINALE
HARRY was very much disturbed by the communication of his new acquaintance, whose name he ascertained to be Wyman. It was not very pleasant, of course, to be a prisoner, but this he could have borne, being confident, sooner or later, of escaping. But to be forced to join these lawless men, and render himself, like them, an outlaw and outcast from respectable society, seemed terrible. He determined that, come what would, he would preserve his integrity and his honest name. He might be ill-treated, but they could not force him to become a bushranger. He talked the matter over with Jack, and the young sailor agreed with him.
Presently the meal was ready, and the two boys were served with the rest. Notwithstanding their precarious position, each ate heartily. It takes a good deal to spoil the appetite of a growing boy.
After eating, the captain, clearing his throat, addressed the band.