"I guessed as much from his face," said Brack, "and I reckon there's worse judges than me of human nature—that's what makes me think he's innocent—like Bill."
"It's all very interesting, but pull to the Sea-mew," said Dick.
"About time," said Brack, as he started rowing again. They were soon alongside the yacht.
Picton had just come on deck again from the saloon. He hailed Dick cheerfully.
"Well, early bird, what's brought you here at this time?" he said, smiling.
"Wished to welcome you, most mighty rider of winners," laughed Dick as he got out of the boat and stood on the steps of the gangway. "Here you are, Brack, and thanks for your story; it was thrilling."
Brack touched his cap as he said: "And it's true, and there's heaps of things thrilling that ain't true," and he pulled away.
"Brack been spinning yarns?" said Picton, who knew the old man.
"A real shocker this time."
"What about?"