Page:Harris Dickson--Old Reliable in Africa.djvu/78

 be searched before their arrival at Alexandria—baggage, cabin, and person—that was inevitable. Lykoff also realized that his government wanted the key rather than himself. Gargarin on his part felt sure that Lykoff would carry that key in such a way as to be instantly destroyed—which had happened in several bunglesome arrests. Manifestly Lykoff could not take it ashore, even if he were permitted to leave the ship, which was not likely. Neither could he trust Guinea Ryan—the American boiler-maker being also under strict surveillance. He must get an unsuspected man. From the moment Lykoff first set eyes on Colonel Spottiswoode he saw that here was a man who could help, but who would not. No amount of persuasion or money—neither of which Lykoff lacked—could reach such men. But the black? the negro? An inspiration! Lykoff had lived in the United States and had become somewhat familiar with Southern negroes. This black servant would follow his master ashore, and pass unchallenged. Once ashore it might be very easy for himself, or friends, to reclaim his priceless scrap of paper. So Gregory Lykoff Terrorist, assassin, patriot, what you please—sat placidly in his chair, and made up his mind to use the services of Old Reliable.

At first it scared Zack shaky in the knees, the abruptness with which that snappy-eyed white