'Ad to come along this w'y, or else spend the rest of
the night dahn there, and we're due for loadin' the stuff at the docks at
midnight. Master'll be devilish mad if 'e finds us missin'."
It was a chance shot, but somehow chance often favours the brave. It
told. The man lowered his revolver, gave them a quick glance from head to
toe, and then swung upon his heel.
"Well, better clear out while there's no danger," he returned sharply.
"Two other men are on the watch-out for strangers. Take that short cut
there"--he pointed to the left--"and skirt round to the road. Quarter of
a mile'll bring you. Chaps at your end ought to see to it that none of
the special hands stray up this way. It's not safe. Good-night."
"Good-night," responded Cleek cheerily. "Thank you, sir;" and, taking
Dollops's arm, swung off in the direction indicated, just as quick as his
feet could carry him.
They walked in silence for a time, their feet making no sound in the
marshy ground, when they were well out of earshot--Cleek spoke in a low
tone.
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