"When I went on deck last night to take my watch, I didn't expect to be captain before morning," said he. "When we reached the coast of Africa I intended to protest, and leave the bark with as many of the men as were willing to join me."
"You would have been too late," I replied. "That steerage was fitted up for the Spanish and Portuguese sailors, and in my opinion more were to be obtained somewhere. I don't think you would have found a chance to leave the vessel. These men were to be armed, and were to compel the rest of the crew to do duty."
"You are right, though I would rather have captured the vessel after the negroes were taken on board. It would not have looked at all like mutiny then."
"I don't think it does now. We have evidence enough that the bark is on a slaving voyage; and I have no doubt we shall find more proof when we have overhauled the hold," I replied.
"I am satisfied that it is best as it is," he added. "But what are we to do?"
"That's a question we have yet to decide. Do you know who owns the vessel now?"
"Those Spaniards. They bought out the Ashborns' interest in her. If the vessel has to be destroyed, Captain Farraday is to be paid for his share, and has a percentage on the profits besides."
"There must be a great deal of money on board."
"Probably there is."
"I know that Waterford had about ten thousand dollars."