"We'll have the Swallow in taut trim inside of three days, captain," Adams promised.
"Good," nodded the commander. "I leave it to you. Now then, to adopt some plan to reach Dave Fearless."
The boatswain came up and touched his cap respectfully.
"What is it, Drake?" inquired Broadbeam.
"That man, Gerstein."
"Well, what about him?"
"Uneasy, sir. I've been watching him closely. I found a package of food and a knife and a pistol hidden under his bunk this morning."
"You did, eh?" muttered the captain thoughtfully. "Preparing to bolt, you think?"
"I know it."
"Won't do," advised Broadbeam tersely. "Lock him up."