A minute after the steamer stood still for an instant, then the wheels began to revolve in reversed motion.
“There she is, Mr. Darrell; she'll be alongside in a minute,” the captain said, pleased with the opportunity to oblige Clarence.
And the steamer, propelled by one wheel, began to back as if with the side-long motion of a highly intelligent crab who understood the situation.
“Read your telegrams,” Everett repeated.
“All right—to please you,” said Clarence, tearing them open. Adding, after reading a few words, “It is as I expected. I am wanted by Hubert. Send him a dispatch to-night saying I left, and to accept M.'s offer, and pay the money at once.”
“Now, Mr. Darrell, come on,” the captain said.
Hurriedly Clarence shook hands with Don Mariano, Gabriel, Everett and Victoriano.
“Take care, jump in on the downward swing, when about on a level with the wharf,” said Gabriel.
Clarence nodded, gave him his hand, and planting his foot firmly on the wharf, gave one spring, and wiry as a cat, alighted on the steamer beside the captain, who hugged him, saying:
“Bravo, my boy, I could have done that twenty years ago.”