"It wasn't stated that I was to take any oaths or obligations."
"I'll admit that, but it's necessary."
"You ought to have told me before I came with you on this trip."
"That is so, but I didn't; but you have come with us; you are here in our midst, you are posted as to our game, and now what are you going to do about it, Ballard?"
CHAPTER XIX.
"I am not prepared to answer at present. I must have time to think," was the answer made by our hero.
"What at do you want to think about?" demanded Denman.
"I wish to consider whether or not it will pay me to become a permanent member of your crew."
"You disappoint me, Ballard."
"How so?"