Page:Works of Jules Verne - Parke - Vol 7.djvu/159

Rh "Go, Crockston," said James Playfair; "I understand you, my friend; and I only regret one thing, that is, that I cannot take your place."

"Everyone his part," replied Crockston; "if you put yourself in my place you would be much embarrassed, which I shall not be; you will have enough to do later on to get out of the harbor under the fire of the Feds and Rebs, which, for my part, I should manage very badly."

"Well, Crockston, go on."

"Once in the citadel—I know it—I shall see what to do, and rest assured I shall do my best; in the meanwhile, you will be getting your cargo on board."

"Oh! business is now a very unimportant detail," said the captain.

"Not at all! what would your Uncle Vincent say to that? We must join sentiment with work; it will prevent suspicion; but do it quickly. Can you be ready in six days?"

"Yes."

"Let the Dolphin be ready to start on the 22nd."

"She shall be ready."

On the evening of the 22nd of January, you understand, send a shore boat with your best men to White Point, at the end of the town; wait there till nine o'clock, and you will see Mr. Halliburtt and your servant."

"But how will you manage to effect Mr. Halliburtt's deliverance, and also escape yourself?"

"That's my look-out."

"Dear Crockston, you are going to risk your life then to save my father!"

"Don't be uneasy, Miss Jenny, I shall risk absolutely nothing, you may believe me."

"Well," asked James Playfair, "when must I have you locked up?"

"To-day—you understand—I demoralize your crew; there is no time to be lost."

"Would you like any money? it may be of use to you in the citadel."

"Money to buy the jailer! Oh, no! it would be a poor bargain; when one goes there the jailer keeps the money and the prisoner! No! I have surer means than that; however, a few dollars may be useful; one must be able to drink, if needs be."