[Illustration: CHAPTER IX]
AN ACT OF PIRACY
DURING dinner there was nothing to indicate that ere morning strange doings were to be enacted on board the Olive Branch. Captain Brookes had given strict instructions to those who were in the secret to maintain silence and to abstain from any words that might alarm the traitor.
The meal therefore proceeded as smoothly as usual, though Gerald noticed that Taylor, alias Schneider, was ill at ease, refraining from indulging in conversation, and looking across the table in an absent-minded manner.
When permission was given to smoke the captain excused himself and withdrew.
"Well, Mr. Sinclair?" said he to the officer of the watch.
"I've examined the stern-walk, sir; there is a snatch-block and a coil of rope under the seat."
"You did not disturb them, I hope?"