"More trouble?" insinuated Bob.
"More meddling and spying, more like," said Dave.
Both boys watched a natty, well-manned yawl come spinning up the creek towards the Swallow.
The Chilian colors adorned the bow, indicating an official visit. A man in military dress directed the boat. Beside him sat another of the governor's aides in semi-official uniform.
Dave called Captain Broadbeam, and all hands on board the Swallow were now interested in the approaching yawl.
"Colonel José Silverado, from his excellency the governor," announced the officer in charge of the yawl as he neared the side of the steamer.
"Coming aboard?" asked Broadbeam, in his blunt, gruff way.
"On duty, yes," responded the officer, very politely, but with a covert grin. "The governor's physician--Dr. Monterey," added the officer, indicating his companion.
Captain Broadbeam bowed brusquely, and with surly and suspicious mien awaited the further pleasure of the governor's envoy.
The officer glanced keenly all about the ship. Then he took a card from his pocket and scanned it.