Even already I had imagined a gleam of lust in the eyes of the fellow when he glanced covertly at her, and distrusted him as I would a snake.

And he was owner and captain, his word on board the supreme law, even unto death.

There was nothing left me but to agree to his proposition, and thus purchase freedom.

Yet I must not appear too eager.
"I perceive your point," I said at last, facing him.

"But what is there in it for me ?" "A good round sum," he replied.