CHAPTER XL
THE CAPTAIN’S FATE.
THE CAPTAIN’S presentiments were verified. The suspicions of his lieutenant had been aroused by his unusual manner, nor had they been allayed by the explanation he gave of his intended journey. Immediately after the captain’s departure he had convened the members of the band, and harangued them thus.
“Boys, I have something to say to you that affects our common interests. The captain has left us for a visit to the city, and he has explained his reasons for going. He will try to negotiate the bonds taken from one of our late prisoners. Very likely he has told us the truth. He will doubtless get what he can for them, but will he come back?”
At this significant question the robbers started, and their faces looked dark and threatening.
“What makes you think he won’t, lieutenant?” asked one.
“Human nature,” replied Alonzo. “If he gets a good round sum, say ten or twenty thousand dollars, he will be tempted to keep it all himself, and leave us to our fate. Who shall say there is no danger? What should hinder his taking the next steamer for New York?”
Alonzo saw by the fierce looks of his adherents that his suggestion had produced its effect. He continued:
“I noticed, just before the captain’s departure, that he acted strangely; he took walks by himself, and evidently had some plan in view. I noticed also that he had a confidential talk with the boy, Tom. What does all this mean?”