Page 218 (1/1)
Morning found all hands s of a healthy hunger Even Asensio confessed to a quite elina prepared breakfast the lovers agreed upon a story to explain the origin of that old piece, and later Johnnie warned Jacket for a second tiue between his teeth
"We will have to be doubly careful now," he told the boy "An unguarded word or an incautious move would be the end of us"
Jacket nodded his complete comprehension "Sure! All Spaniards are robbers and they'd kill us for a peso Yes, and the pacificos are no better I tell you we need to get out of this place"
"I intend to arrange it at once, but--the sight of those jewels has frightened me If we are searched--if we are even suspected--"
"Oh, Rosa wouldn't have any more use for her pretty trinkets She'd be in heaven before you could scratch your nose"
O'Reilly frowned "She isn't at all strong yet I' if she can endure the hardships we'll encounter when, or if, we get away"
"Exactly what I was thinking I've been considering another plan"
"Indeed?" O'Reilly scanned the face of his young friend with interest He was beginning to have a high regard for Jacket's capabilities, and the boy's exploit of the night before certainly entitled him to be heard upon any subject
"I told you about my friend at the market," the latter continued "Well, he is a ua"
"One of us?" Johnnie was surprised
"Yes The old fellons a volandra in which he brings charcoal from the eastward twice a month"
There was a mo even to voice such a suggestion, "You ht take us out of here--on his schooner?"
"Who knows? He's not a bad old fellow and he likes me But there would be no place for women"
"Hoell does he like you?"
"Oh, we are like two thieves"
After another period of thought O'Reilly said, "Take me to him, and remember I'm your brother Juan"
The Matanzas reat activity when the two friends slunk into it It was midday, and what food had earlier been offered for sale had for thesince disappeared All but a few of the stalls were e listlessly a aid froered about Likewas far fro people In the smelliest section, at one of the fish-stalls, Jacket accosted a villainous old brigand in a rough Gallego cap, baggy blouse and trousers, and straw sandals