Cecil Clifford’s face wore a determined expression.
“Very well,” he said, resolutely. “If Mr. Parker does not see fit to lend the Aurelian for my purpose, I will buy, charter or build a vessel of my own!”
Captain Hartley turned eagerly about.
“If you do that,” he said with some excitement, “why may I not enter your service?”
“And leave Parker?”
The captain snapped his fingers.
“The old skinflint has no love for me and vice versa,” he said. “I have sailed the Aurelian for him eight years and made a mint of money for him. Yet he would not yield me a bit of sympathy or help were I in trouble or distress. You cannot blame me!”
“Under such circumstances, no,” replied Clifford. “And Hartley, it shall be so. You stand by me and I will by you.”
“It is agreed.”
They gripped hands.