“It’s quite correct, sir,” said Uncle Naboth.
“In that case, there is no harm in my making you a business proposition. I want to land on the east coast of Yucatan, at a place little known and seldom visited by ships. It will take you a couple of hundred miles out of your course.”
For a few moments no one spoke. Then Captain Steele said:
“A trip like that, Mr. Allerton, involves a certain amount of expense to us. But we’re free, as far as our time is concerned, and we’ve plenty of coal and supplies. The question is, how much are you willing to pay for the accommodation?”
A slight flush crept over Allerton’s cheek.
“Unfortunately, sir,” he replied, “I have very little ready money.”
His tone was so crestfallen that I felt sorry for him, and Joe turned quickly and said:
“That’s unlucky, sir; but I’ve some funds that are not in use just now, and if you’ll permit me to loan you whatever you require I shall be very happy to be of service.”
“Or,” added Uncle Naboth, carelessly, “you can pay us some other time; whenever you’re able.”
Allerton looked around him, meeting only sympathetic faces, and smiled.