"So that they can get out and tell the land sharks what we've done?" suggested Garry Cochrane in disgust.
"Garry," said Hovey with deep feeling, "you're a lad after my heart. And you're right. If one of them lives, he'll be enough to put a halter around the necks of each of us. We couldn't get away. If we're once described, there ain't no way we could dodge the law."
He grinned sardonically as he looked about the circle: "There's something about us, lads, that makes us different from other men."
The sailors glanced appreciatively at the scarred countenances of their fellows and laughed hoarsely.
"So the second way is the only way," went on Hovey, seeing that he had scored his point. "The rest of the crew that ain't with us has got to go under. Are you with me?"
"Aye," croaked the chorus, and every man looked down at the floor. Each one had picked out the man he hated the most, and was preparing the manner of the killing.
"Good," said Hovey; "and now that we've agreed on that, we've got to choose—"
He stopped, going rigid and blank of face. He had seen the open, chilling blue eye of Harrigan, who, drawn on into forgetfulness, had lain for some time on his bunk watching the scene without caution.
CHAPTER 21
"He's heard!" stammered Hovey, pointing. "Guard the door! Get him!"