I like you,
but I've a statement to make; you can't share in the profits
of tonight's work unless you become one of us."
"How's that, sir?"
"We are a regular organization; the crew of this boat is bound
to secrecy by oaths and obligations, and I am about to give
you the privilege of becoming one of us."
"The detective realized his peril. He saw that the game had
opened, that Renie's warnings were about to be fulfilled but
he was cool and easy and determined. It was a terrible
moment, but he was as resolute as ever and replied:
"That wasn't in the programme, captain."
"What wasn't in the programme?"
"It wasn't stated that I was to take any oaths or obligations."
"I'll admit that, but it's necessary."
"You ought to have told me before I came with you on this
trip."
"That is so, but I didn't; but you have come with us; you are
here in our midst, you are posted as to our game, and now what
are you going to do about it, Ballard?"
CHAPTER SIX.
"I am not prepared to answer at present. I must have time to
think," was the answer made by our hero.
"What at do you want to think about?" demanded Denman.
"I wish to consider whether or not it will pay me to become a
permanent member of your crew."
"You disappoint me, Ballard."
"How so?"
"I've given you a good chance, and I expected you would say
all right at a jump. I've something to tell you; suspicions
are aroused concerning you. I don't believe, myself, they are
just, and I hope you will make good my conclusions.
Pages:
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94