Page:Dave Porter on Cave Island.djvu/301

Rh Sanders had a long conference with Giles Borden concerning the Englishmen who had robbed him. Later a general talk took place between the pair and the boys.

"I am afraid we'll have to trust to luck to catch the Aurora or locate her," said the captain, finally. "She may go to San Juan and she may go elsewhere."

"If we pass any other vessels, can't we ask if they saw the schooner?" ventured Dave.

"Certainly."

The day went by and also the next. Link Merwell kept to himself, only speaking when addressed. He felt his position keenly, and would no doubt have given a great deal if he could have cleared himself. He was learning that the way of the transgressor is hard.

On the third day, early in the morning, they passed a big barkentine bound for South American ports. Greetings were exchanged, and Captain Sanders asked concerning the Aurora.

"Yes, we met her," was the reply. "Yesterday, about two bells in the afternoon watch."

"Did she say where she was bound?"

"Bound for San Juan, Porto Rico."

"Direct?"

"Yes. She was going to stop elsewhere, but the captain allowed he'd make straight for San Juan," added the captain of the barkentine,