high wages--to go wherever I choose to sail. Is not that so?"

"In one sense, yes. But a slaver now is little better than a pirate.
You should have been more open."

"And you less greedy for money. I say you are in for it. There is no
chance to secure another mate, and I intend to see that you do your
duty."




CHAPTER XVI.

Nearing the Gold Coast.

The two men regarded each other steadily for a moment, then the mate
heaved a sigh.

"I don't care for your threats," said he. "It's that same conscience
of mine which you think so little of that troubles me. As long as I am
your second mate I shall do my duty. But I give you fair warning: when
we get to port, if there is another ship where a man can get a job I
shall leave you."

"You'll leave without your pay, then," retorted the captain.

Duff, without replying, left the cabin. He had explained his
sentiments, and that was all he could do at present. In his succeeding
round of ship inspection he was halted in the forecastle by Ralph, who