"Yes, they are real good fellows, two new chums, and you can take my word for it they'll do us no harm with their fishing."
"We made up our minds last night there's to be no pearling here, or there'll be a row."
"Tom Case, you are a fool," replied Amos. "Let 'em try their luck, and it's long odds they find nothing. While they are messing about here we shall have a plentiful supply of liquor, food stuff, and tobacco from the schooners. They are well provisioned, and that will be a change, you'll allow."
"There's sense in that," said one of the men, "and as Amos says, it's long odds they pick up nothing. I say, leave 'em alone; what's your opinion, mates?"
"If we give them a free hand it will mean that others will come and expect the same treatment," said Case. "I vote we stop their little game as soon as they commence."
Tom Case was jealous of the position held by Amos Hooker, and this was his reason for holding out. He saw, however, that the prospect of fresh supplies was too great a temptation for them, and finally it was decided to permit the newcomers to try their luck without any interference. This news Amos Hooker conveyed to the "Heron," and Jack handed him over ten pounds as a reward.
"We require some more divers," said Jack, "can you procure them for us?"
"How many do you want?"
"Six or seven; we have some of our own on board."
"I can get you them, but they are not very reliable. Still, if you treat them well I think they will be all right."