The chances, however, for getting ashore were very slim. He
had dared a little too much, and yet at that very moment the
undaunted officer was playing a deep game.
Under a close reef the boat was heading in toward shore, and
the detective was operating to gain time, as every ten minutes
increased his chances of eventual escape.
After the detective's declaration, "Your own life will pay the
forfeit!" there followed a moment's silence Vance would not
break; time to him was precious while the yacht lay upon her
inward course.
"You are a traitor, Ballard, you are a Government spy!"
"Who says so?"
"The charge has been made."
"Let me meet the man who makes the charge."
"And then?"
"I have made my demand. I am to receive your word that. I
shall have a fair chance to settle the matter with him."
"Your request is reasonable."
"It is."
"Why not join us and then make your demand?"
"I will never join a crew with that man; this is a trumped-up
charge against me to satisfy private malice."
"Why does your accuser seek to accuse you falsely?"
"I am too much of a man to bring my private quarrel to public
notice; captain, the matter stands here; you know I'm no tyro;
as matters stand, I am doomed; against you and your crew out
here at sea I've no chance for my life; but as the chances
have turned, I can guarantee fair play ashore."
"You shall meet your accuser."
"And have a fair show?"
"Yes."
"I have your word, captain?"
"You have my word.
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