“It’s all very well to say the salt works be damned, Hoppy, but I can tell you the owners of the works won’t let their property be destroyed if they can save it by paying a reasonable sum for immunity. Then, it’s not quite certain that Brewster and Orleans would be able to do much for Eastham.” “Brewster has an artillery company, though it’s not very well organized. Still, it has two pieces and they could be made useful if properly handled. There’s one thing I’m very sure of; Orleans will put up a good fight if the British attack that town.” “Yes, I heard Orleans means to fight. I fear it will be a useless sacrifice of life.” “Well, Win, we had better wait a little longer and postpone the argument until we have more information on the subject. What’s your idea about Raggett’s proposal? Do you think he really desires to see you back with the money?” “Certainly I do.” “Well, I don’t. My opinion is that he wants to get rid of one of us. One is enough for his purpose and I have told you what that purpose is; so, Win, I don’t expect to see you again while I’m on this ship.” “He can’t prevent me from returning with the money.” “Oh, yes, he can. You can’t reach the ‘Spencer’ without his permission, and while he thinks he can use me he won’t grant that permission.” “Then you are going to act as his pilot?” “That’s a hard way to put it, Win. It may be that he wants to correct his charts and in that case I shall be obliged to go with his surveying party. It won’t help him very much, I can promise you. I have an idea of what’s going to happen, but I may be mistaken. I shall have to trust to my wits in the matter; but there’s one thing I can tell you right here, and I want you to bear it in mind: Hoppy Mayo will never turn traitor to his country, though for some time to come he must be trusted to play the game in his own way.” “All right, Hoppy, I’ll tell them what you said. There’s nobody in Eastham will believe you to be a traitor.” Win reached his hand and his comrade grasped it warmly. Next morning Captain Knowles was put on board the schooner. As the little craft made sail and started on her voyage, Hoppy waved farewell to his friend, more than ever convinced that he should not see him again on the “Spencer.” Captain Raggett sent word to Hoppy that the latter could have the freedom of the ship provided he promised not to attempt to escape. He was also informed that orders had been given to supply him with clothing or anything else he required. Hoppy readily gave the promise and thanked the commander for his thoughtfulness.