"I am at their disposal whenever they want me," I replied, choking at this disagreeable information.
"Mr. Collingsby thinks you have gone with Whippleton, and that you were concerned with him in the frauds."
"Does he?"
"Is this lady Miss Collingsby?"
"It is."
"Her father and mother believe she has run away with Mr. Waterford. There's all sorts of stories floating about. I suppose, if I bring one of the police, they will arrest you."
"No matter for that; bring him along. If I had been guilty, I should not have brought Mr. Whippleton back."
The officer departed, and I lowered the mainsail. I told Peter to put the yacht in good order.
"Can't you untie me now, Phil?" asked Mr. Whippleton.
"Not till the officers come. I don't intend to make any more blunders."