“But you can’t do that. You will starve to death.”
“I have looked out for that.”
Though Bill Stout asked some questions on this point, Raimundo declined to say in what manner he had provided for his rations.
“Do you know who are in charge on board now?” asked Bill.
“Only Mr. Salter and one of the stewards,” replied the fugitive.
“Why don’t you use your chance while Marline and Rimmer are ashore, and leave the vessel? You can get away without being seen.”
“I can’t get out of the vessel without going through the cabin where Mr. Salter is,” answered Raimundo; but the suggestion gave him a lively hope.
“Yes, you can: you can get out by the fore-scuttle, go over the bow, and roost on the bobstay till a shore boat comes along,” added Bill. “Only you musn’t let the steward see you. Salter is in the cabin, and he won’t know any thing about it.”
Raimundo was grateful for the suggestion, though he was not willing to acknowledge it, considering the source from which it came. Hugo would help him, instead of being a hinderance. The steward would call a boat, and have it all ready for him when he got out of the vessel. He could even keep Mr. Salter in the cabin, while he made his escape, by engaging his attention in some matter of business.
“I will see what I can do,” said the fugitive as he left the ladder.