Dolphin," and begged the landlady to grant them the use of
her parlour, as they wished to talk over a private matter of great
importance. The good woman assented with pleasure, and promised them
freedom from interruption. They went in, and upon their very heels
came Dan. He said something to the hostess in a low voice. She
protested volubly and angrily. He wheedled and coaxed, and at length,
very reluctantly, she relented. Dan tapped at the door thrice
separately and significantly. "This is our friend," said Nick Johnson,
and he opened the door to admit him who knocked. The strangers stared
at Dan; but, never having seen him before, had no suspicion of his
identity.

All five sat down at the table, the two strangers with their backs to
the fireplace, the three friends facing them, with their backs to the
door. Dan did the talking, addressing himself to Basil's henchmen.

"These two good fellows," he said, "old shipmates of mine, have
arranged this pleasant meeting at my request. I have heard somewhat of
you, and learn that we are all greatly interested in a certain matter.
If I just mention 'Indies,' 'Dons,' 'gold,' you will guess the run of
my thoughts."

The strangers nodded, and settled themselves into an attitude of closer
attention.

"There's a vessel in harbour almost ready to weigh anchor for the land
of the setting sun. Her aim is treasure. I sail in her, and I am in
the secret councils of her captain. Do you follow my thoughts?"

"Perfectly. You've some bold business on hand for dipping your hands
deep into the spoil of the voyage, and you want a few bold blades at
your back. Say no more. Get us aboard, and when you give the signal
we're with you. To tell you the truth, we were planning some such
scheme ourselves, but could see no chance of a berth on the vessel."

"I'm glad you're the stout fellows I took you to be. Now, don't be
surprised at what I say next. I have more than one man's secrets
locked in my bosom." Dan turned to Nick Johnson. "Just make sure
there are no eavesdroppers," he said.

Nick looked out into the passage. "Not a mouse stirring."

"Then, whilst thou art on thy legs, fetch in some ale. Our new
comrades would like to toast our enterprise."

Dan leaned back in silence whilst Nick did his errand. Healths were
drunk without words--just a nod, as much as to say, "To you, my hearty!"

Dan leaned across the table. "A thin, wiry, sallow-faced man;
black-haired