Sir Rowland witnessed these proceedings like one stupified. He neither attempted to prevent his nephew's departure, nor to follow him.
Jonathan kept his keen eye fixed upon him, as he addressed himself for a moment to the Hollander.
"Is the case of watches on board?" he asked in an under tone.
"Ja," replied the skipper.
"And the rings?"
"Ja."
"That's well. You must dispose of the goldsmith's note I gave you yesterday, as soon as you arrive at Rotterdam. It'll be advertised to-morrow."
"De duivel!" exclaimed Van Galgebrok, "Very well. It shall be done as you direct. But about dat jonker," he continued, lowering his voice; "have you anything to add consarnin' him? It's almosht a pity to put him onder de water."
"Is the sloop ready to sail?" asked Wild, without noticing the skipper's remark.
"Ja," answered Van; "at a minut's nodish."