Lester's voice replied to his hail, the schooner was brought to the wind, the boat ranged alongside, and Diaz ascended.
“How are you, Lester?” he said, shaking hands with his friend. “I have no time to talk. Read this letter at once, and let me get away with all speed.”
Lester was impressed with the emphatic manner in which he spoke, and without a single question opened Brabant's letter. Then an exclamation of astonishment burst from him.
“What does it all mean, Pedro? I——”
The Chileno waved his hand impatiently, and shrugged his shoulders. “We must obey orders, Lester.”
“Of course. I shall let Mrs. Brabant know at once.” Then he read the letter a second time.
“Dear Lester,—Please ask Mrs. Brabant to get together some
of her luggage as quickly as possible, and come on board the
Loelia, which is the better vessel of the two as far as
comfort goes. Minea can remain on board the Maritana. You
will find further orders awaiting you at Levuka.”
That was all. Lester stepped below, and found his passenger seated at the cabin table.
“That vessel is the Loelia madam, and Diaz has just come aboard with this letter;” and he handed it to her.
“What an extraordinary thing! Why did not my husband come for me himself if he is so anxious for me to join him on the Loelia. Is she close-to?”