"As particular as all that?"
"Yes, a matter of life or death," said Brack.
"We're just about to leave the harbor."
"For God's sake, let down the steps!" said Brack.
Hector did not move or speak; his nerves were strung to the highest pitch, he quivered all over.
Captain Ben called a hand and they opened the gangway and lowered the steps.
"Now's yer time—go up quick!" said Brack.
"Who's that?" asked Ben, as Hector rose up.
"He's comin' aboard; he's a friend of Mr. Woodridge's."
"Who is he?"