Part 33 (2/2)
”Now then, what's your message?” asked Calamity, as he descended the ladder.
The water-clerk, an undersized Malay half-breed with small, s.h.i.+fty eyes, made a movement that was something between a salaam and a salute.
”I have important news from Mr. Solomon, Captain,” he said.
”Well, go ahead.”
The clerk glanced at the men at work on deck and made a significant gesture.
”It is very private, sir,” he answered.
”Then you'd better come to my cabin,” said the Captain, and led the way aft. On entering the cabin he sat down, but did not request his visitor to do likewise, and the latter knew enough to remain standing.
”Now unload your instructions,” said Calamity.
”The fact is, Captain, there's been great trouble about you in Singapore,” began the clerk, speaking in subdued tones. ”It's said that your Letters of Marque were forged and that you're nothing but a pirate----”
”A what?” broke in the Captain, so fiercely that the other jumped.
”I--I'm only telling you what people say,” the clerk answered nervously.
”You mean you're telling me what Solomon told you to say. Well, get on with it.”
”I know nothing about the matter myself, Captain, but the authorities are going to arrest you and take possession of the s.h.i.+p.”
”And Mr. Solomon has sent you to warn me, is that it?” asked Calamity with an ironical smile.
”Yes. He is afraid that the authorities will seize the s.h.i.+p and all the plunder.”
”That's better, now we're getting at the truth. But how does Solomon know I've got any plunder?”
”He did not think you would return without any.”
”H'm, a far-seeing man is Solomon. But what does he expect me to do?”
”His idea is that you should transfer the most valuable stuff to the motor-boat so that it may be taken away to a safe place. Then, you see, when the officials board your s.h.i.+p they will find practically nothing.”
”An excellent plan,” remarked Calamity almost with enthusiasm. ”But what about me?”
”About you, Captain?”
”Yes; am I to be left to the care of the police while Solomon is looking after the plunder?”
”Oh no!” e.j.a.c.u.l.a.t.ed the clerk in shocked tones. ”If there is nothing of value on board the authorities can't do much to you. Besides, Mr.
Solomon will do his utmost to secure your acquittal if you are tried.”
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