"Cipher, to be sure! This is what I expected to find."
He put the sheets back into the leather case, and thrust it into the inner pocket of his coat. The sea-captain's eyes were watching him with evil interest, and he had the air of one who listened.
Jasper understood. Captain Jerome expected a rescue.
"Tom, I want to be rid of this gentleman, and I don't want the red-coats to get hold of him, either."
"Sir?"
"March him down to within a mile of the sea, and send him off with a blessing."
"I'll do't, Master Jasper."
"Monsieur Jerome, it is lucky for you that I am giving you this chance. Clear out, and let us hear no more of you. If ever I hear of you showing your face on this side of the Channel, I'll have you taken and shot as a spy. You understand?"
"I speak no English."
"Nonsense. You get off back to France, and pray to God to keep you from playing at carrying secret signals. Up with him, Tom. Here, put one of my pistols in your belt."