"Well, John, I've been waiting for you," said Josiah Crabtree, as
Mumps came forward and the two shook hands.

"So have I been waiting for you," returned the former sneak of
Putnam Hall. "Why didn't you come yesterday?"

"It was impossible to do so, my lad. Is that the Falcon down
there?"

"It is."

"Who is in charge of her?"

"A sailor named Bill Goss."

"Is he a -- ahem -- a man to be trusted?"

"I guess I can trust him," snickered Mumps.

"If he dared to give me away, I could send him to jail."

"You mean that you - er -- have him -- ahem -- in your power?"

"That's it, Mr. Crabtree."

"Very good. And is be, a good sailor?"

"As good as any on the river."