If I fire a pistol, he will
send off a boat with a full account of the theft of the mummy of
Inca Caxas, written by himself. Then I will hand his messenger
fifty gold sovereigns, which I have here," added Don Pedro,
pointing to a canvas bag on the table, "and we will return. I
wish you to go with me, senor, and also I wish your friend Mr.
Hope to come."
"Do you anticipate treachery from Captain Hervey?" asked Random.
"I should not be surprised if he tried to trick me in some way,
and I wish you and your friend to stand by me. Were this man
alone, I would go alone, but he will have a boat's crew with him.
It is best to be safe."
"I agree with you," said Random quickly. "Hope and I will come,
and we will take revolvers with us. It doesn't do to trust this
blackguard. Ho! ho! I wonder if he knows of the Professor's
flight."
"No. Considering the terms upon which the Professor stood with
Hervey, I should think he would be the last person he would
trust. I wonder what has become of the man."
More people than Don Pedro wondered as to the whereabouts of
Braddock and his servant, for everyone was inquiring and hunting.
The marshes round the cottage were explored: the great house
itself was searched, as well as many cottages in the village, and
inquiries were made at all the local stations.
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