Page:Mistress Madcap (1937).pdf/154

 Fortunately, however, Young Cy was in the shadow of the table where he lay upon the floor, and his captor noticed nothing amiss in his attitude, especially as the boy held the rope in such a clever manner that it seemed to be still binding his wrists. It was obvious, too, that the captain had forgotten the contents of that little innocent-looking carved teak-wood box.

"Well," he said, grinning sardonically, though his prisoners knew at once that he was the better-natured for his nap, "I am here to give ye one more chance to tell me what ye know of the 'Jersey Blues,' Master Jones. I have been sent to discover what I can of them, especially of their captain, whose name we have, never fear, and whose neck shall soon feel the rope! Best tell me, for ye will be sorry an I have to deliver ye to headquarters! There, I warn ye, they do not wrap ye in lamb's wool."

Young Cy remained silent a moment after Captain Jaffray had ceased speaking. Then he said sullenly:

"I have nothing to tell ye of the 'Jersey Blues.

The captain shrugged his shoulders. "Very well," he said, "so be it. Master Jones. May ye not regret it!" He called aloud. "Myles! Daniel!"

As before, they appeared promptly, falling noisily down the hatch. It was plain to be seen that they held their captain in fear.

"Turn him out!" ordered Captain Jaffray briefly, pointing to Young Cy.

The two men stooped and lifted Young Cy to his feet, the latter holding them tightly together as though they were still tied.