It was decided that little good could be accomplished by notifying the police of the attempt to work harm to Dick, and so no report was made of it, for our hero disliked the newspaper sensationalism he knew would follow. Only Mr. Blake warned the young millionaire to be careful of where he went, and in what company he lingered. A week passed, during which Dick enjoyed himself in New York. The steam yacht proved to be all that was claimed for her, and the purchase was completed. "You are now the owner of the _Albatross_," said the lawyer to Dick, one morning, handing him several papers. "That's great! Now to get a captain, a crew, put coal and provisions aboard, and set sail." "For what port?" "I'm going to Cuba, partly on business and partly for pleasure. Some of my school chums are going along, and we'll have a good time. And that reminds me of something. There's a friend of mine in New York, whom I'd like to have go along with me. He's Tim Muldoon, a former newsboy." "A newsboy?" and Mr. Blake looked surprised. "Yes, and one of the truest characters who ever sold a paper. I must look him up. He's good fun, and will enjoy the trip." Two days later, the legal formalities all being completed, Dick engaged the services of Captain Amos Barton, a grizzled veteran of the seas, to command the _Albatross_, and then the young millionaire returned to Hamilton Corners. Captain Barton had agreed to select a small, but competent crew, and he would also see to putting the yacht in commission. She would be ready to sail within a week, he stated, and all Dick would have to do would be to name the port for which he wished the graceful prow pointed. He consulted his father on this point, and Mr. Hamilton on looking over his papers learned that the Valdez family formerly lived in Santiago or Havana, though his lawyers had been unable to get a trace of them at either place. "But you might go to Santiago, and then to Havana," suggested Mr. Hamilton. "You'll have to do some detective work, I fancy. But look out for those men who tried to trap you." "Oh, I'll soon be far enough away from them, dad. I'm not worrying. Besides, they won't try to board us with Widdy on guard. He's a great character!" "So I imagine. Well, good luck to you. Do your best, and use your own judgment. You'll have to depend on yourself from now on. Have you arranged for your friends to accompany you?" "Not completely yet, but I will soon." CHAPTER VIII A FIGHT IN THE DARK There were many busy days for Dick, following his purchase of the _Albatross_. He received word from Captain Barton that the coaling and provisioning of the craft were proceeding satisfactorily, and that a good crew had been signed.