"Is that a fact? What is this vessel—a pirate?"
"Goodness only knows. But to put the matter in a nutshell, I have to give my decision whether I'll become one of them or not."
"And if you don't?"
"I've been promised something mighty unpleasant."
Thereupon Gerald related the details of the conversation of the previous evening, and the captain's peremptory demand for a definite reply.
"What do you propose to reply?" asked Jack.
"That's what I want to consult you about. You see there's my position to consider. If I do not turn up within thirty-three days from now I shall be branded as a deserter, unless My Lords take gentler measures and mark me down as missing. If I could serve a useful purpose to my country by accepting the man's proposals I'd do it like a shot, subject to certain guarantees."
"Then why not? In any case you are booked. But I say, old fellow, when you are treating for terms, couldn't you stipulate that I am to be retained as well?"
"You?"
"Yes. I admit, Gerald, I don't possess the same qualifications as you do, but at the same time I'm not a duffer afloat. If this vessel is such a wonderful packet, I'd be only too delighted to stay."