When this was done the big boy breathed a sigh of contentment and set himself down beside his captives.
"Now," said Francisco, "you mus' put us in big boat an' go back to ship with us."
Chesty shook his head.
"Not yet, old man," said he.
"Not yet?"
"No; I shall wait for night. It will be safe in the darkness."
"Then you are 'fraid of Ramon?"
"Not much. Just a little."
The prisoners wriggled uneasily.
"Listen, then, Señor American," observed Francisco. "If we not go before night, then release our bonds—make loose the ropes—so we will rest more easy. When night come you will again tie us up."