CHAPTER XIII.
PRISONERS THREE.
It was easy to see that Captain Langless was "feeling his way," as the saying is, and Dick felt that he must go slow or he might spoil everything. Criminals are of all shades and degrees, and look at affairs in a different light from honest men. It is said that some would rather be dishonest than honest, and Dick did not yet know how the owner of the Peacock stood on that point.
"Perhaps you had better tell us first what Arnold Baxter has offered you," said the elder Rover, as he looked the owner of the schooner squarely in the eyes.
"Well, he has offered considerable, if his schemes go through."
"And if they fail you get nothing."
"I am a good loser—so I shan't complain."
"Supposing I was to offer you several hundred dollars if you saw us safe on shore."
"How can you offer any money? You haven't got it with you, have you?"
"No. But I could get the money, and what I promised to pay I would pay."
