"Then, alas, my overtures of peace are refused?" said Ramon, not defiantly, but in a tone of deep regret.
"No; we don't refuse any sincere overtures of peace; but you have treated us in a scoundrelly manner, and we don't trust you."
"Such a terrible mistake, señor; so sad! But I cannot explain it from here. With utmost trust in your honor I offer to come to you alone, and—see!—unarmed. Will not you, for the sake of the ladies who are with you, encourage my friendliness?"
"Let him come up," said Madeline again. There seemed a veiled threat in Ramon's appeal.
"Very well. But tell your men to watch his every movement, Captain, and if he makes a treacherous move shoot him down without hesitation."
The rope ladder was cast over the side and Ramon promptly seized it and climbed to the deck.
"Follow us below," commanded Mr. Cumberford, turning toward the cabin. The man hesitated, casting a shrewd, quick glance around. Then he bowed again and said:
"I thank the señor for his courtesy."
In the cabin were assembled Mr. and Mrs. Tupper and Sybil Cumberford. Chica and Pietro discreetly kept out of view. Mr. Cumberford entered first, followed by Madeline. Then came Ramon Ganza and behind him the captain and little O'Reilly, the Irish engineer. This last personage was virtually "armed to the teeth," for he carried one of Ramon's own rifles and a brace of revolvers.
"Be seated," said Mr. Cumberford, pointing to a chair. "And now, sir, state your errand."