“What’s going on back in there?” Penny whispered as soon as it was safe to ask.
“Bada men,” her companion said briefly.
“You’re driving me to distraction!” Penny muttered, losing patience. “Do those swampers know you’re here on the island?”
The boy shook his tangled curls, grinning broadly. “Chasa me once. No catch.”
“You’re Italian, aren’t you?” Penny asked suddenly.
A guarded look came over the lad’s sun-tanned face. His brown eyes lost some of their friendliness.
“Now I have it!” Penny exclaimed before he could speak. “You’re Antonio Tienta, wanted by Immigration authorities for slipping into this country illegally!”
The boy did not deny the accusation, and the half-frightened, defiant look he gave her, confirmed that she had struck upon the truth.
“I no go back!” he muttered. “I starva first!”
“Don’t become so excited, or those men will hear you and we’ll both be caught,” Penny warned. “Tell me about yourself, Tony. I already know a little.”