“Your course is plain enough, Bark,” said Raymond. “Mine is not so plain.”

“You think I ought to return to the Tritonia; don’t you?” added Bark.

“That is my view.”

“But suppose the fleet should sail before I get to Carthagena?”

“You must take your chance of that.”

“But you will not go back with me?”

“No: it would not be safe for me to do that. It will be better for my uncle in Barcelona not to know where I am.”

“But what shall I say to Mr. Lowington, or Mr. Pelham, when I am asked where you are?” inquired Bark. “I suppose it is still to be part of my programme not to lie.”

“Undoubtedly; and I hope you will stick to it as long as you live.”