The boat would never depart unless they were aboard, as they
were evidently the leaders of the gang, yet this would be a most
desperate expedient, to be resorted to only when all other effort had
failed. The two were husky chaps, and he would probably be the one to
suffer most in such an encounter. Besides it would put them on their
guard, and possibly avail nothing. Why not speak to the fellows
pleasantly, and naturally? They had no reason to be suspicious of him; he
was but one of many others lounging idly about the pier. His curiosity
would seem reasonable enough, and he might thus gain some clue as to
their destination. Then, even if they did sail before Mac appeared, they
could be safely intercepted in time for a rescue. Indeed, such
information, if it could be gained, would give opportunity to plan
effective action.
Circumstances seemed to work to this end, the two men strolling
carelessly back toward where he sat, pausing within a few feet of him,
all their attention apparently riveted upon the yacht.
"Had some hard luck?" he ventured. "Engine give out?"
The red-moustached one glanced about, his eyes surveying the speaker
indifferently.
"Broke a piston, and had to be towed in," he replied carelessly, "We'll
be off again presently."
"Nice day for a sail."
"Sure is."
The very indifference of the fellow led West to take a chance.
"Some nice boat you've got there. The Coolidge yacht, isn't it? Haven't
seen it out lately.
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