Archy went back to the hut, left the lantern, and said, cheerfully, to Mrs. Curtis:
"I think I shall go down to the mole and ask Captain Curtis if I may stay aboard ship with Langton," which was a very usual thing for him to do.
Archy walked fast down the hill, for it was nearly nine o'clock, after which no one was permitted to pass the sentries except by giving the countersign. He reached the new mole just as the slight commotion of relieving the guard was heard. The Enterprise was anchored no great distance from the mole, in advance of the other four small vessels of the squadron near by, and the last boat was just putting off. Langton was in it, and Musa also, and in response to Langton's cordial invitation Archy jumped aboard.
Arrived at the ship, they found Captain Curtis taking a walk on the quarter-deck before turning in. Langton asked permission for Archy to remain on board all night, which Captain Curtis at once granted, and then turned to speak to Musa, who evidently had something to communicate.
Archy followed Langton below, to a little cabin which had been given him, not on account of his rank, but because of the lack of the full number of officers on the ship. As soon as they were alone, Archy said, significantly:
"I think that Arab fellow suspects an attack is to be made to-night."
"Very likely. If Captain Curtis had been Admiral Barcelo he would have burned or scuttled us long ago."
"I shall sleep on the floor here, if you don't mind."
"Do you expect me to give you my bunk?"
"If I wanted it I'd throw you out, but as you are a little boy, and the grandson of a lord, you may keep it."