But with Herman the situation was not so clear.

Whether, or not, the Captain had informed him that I was a volunteer on their lawless expedition, I did not know.

We had not met since coming aboard, and, unless he had received direct orders regarding my status, any interference on my part would be apt to arouse instant suspicion.
Nor was he the kind to brook any assumed authority.

I had him placed as a gruff, hard-fisted sea-dog, who would strike first, and investigate later--one in dealing with whom either diplomacy or force might prove equal failures.

Yet I possessed this advantage--I could deal with him alone.