You have not yet told us what part you yourself intend to play in this game." "I mean to accompany Captain Montague, if he will permit me." "How! go with me in the Talisman ?" said Montague, surprised at the man's coolness, and puzzled by his impudence.
"Even so," said Gascoyne.
"Well, I have no objection, of course; but it seems to me that you would be more useful at the head of a party of your own men." "Perhaps I might," replied Gascoyne; "but the coral reefs are dangerous on the north side of the island, and it is important that one well acquainted with them should guide your vessel.

Besides, I have a trusty mate, and if you will permit me to send my old shipmate John Bumpus across the hills, he will convey all needful instructions to the Foam." This was said in so quiet and straightforward a tone that Montague's wrath vanished.

He felt ashamed of having shown so much petulance at a time when affairs of so great importance ought to have been calmly discussed; so he at once agreed to allow Bumpus to go.

Meanwhile, Henry Stuart, who had been fretting with impatience at this conversation, suddenly exclaimed: "It seems to me, sirs, that you are wasting precious time just now.

I, at least, am quite satisfied with the duty assigned to me; so I'm off: ho! who will join me ?" "I'm your man," cried Corrie, starting up and flourishing the broken saber above his head.