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"Oh, I'm game," said Billy Byrne, "if you'll promise me a square deal on the divvy."

The Frenchman extended his hand.

Let's shake on it," he said.

Billy took the proffered palm in his.

"That's a go," he said; "but hadn't you better wise me to wot's doin'?"

"Not now," said Theriere, "someone might overhear just as you did. Wait a bit

until I have a better opportunity, and I'll tell you all there is to know. In the

meantime think over who'd be the best men to let into this with us--we'll need

three or four more besides ourselves. Now go on deck about your duties as

though nothing had happened, and if I'm a bit rougher than usual with you you'll

understand that it's to avert any possible suspicion later."

"I'm next," said Billy Byrne.

The Mucker