human
I've squared the nigger!
gpt
Which?
human
Number One. He as waits upon us. His real name's Smunko. I've found that out. Me and he's firm friends. I've told him I want to bolt, and he says he shan't let on to the skipper, or any of them, though they are all a lot of spies.
gpt
Perhaps he's one, too,
human
Not he, sir, answered the boy;
gpt
Smunko's right enough. He's going to keep all the other chaps quiet, some dark night, when we are near the land. Then we are to go on the platform and swim for our lives.
human
A very good arrangement, if it can be carried out, remarked the professor.
gpt
But I fear your friend Smunko is not to be depended upon.
human
The fact is, went on the professor,
gpt
I don't want to discourage the lad, but I have no wish that he should do anything rash, and involve us in a mess. The captain might doom us to solitary confinement. At present we are treated liberally, if we are prisoners.
human
All right, sir, replied Stump,
gpt
I'll turn it up as far as you are concerned. If Master Mont likes to come with me, all well and good; if not he can let it alone. I know my game, and I mean to stick to it.
human
Don't show your nasty temper, Stump,
gpt
Aint being cooped up here like a turkey in a pen, fatting for Christmas, enough to rile a bishop? asked the boy.
human
But I shan't say no more. When all's ready I'll give you one more chance, and if you aint with me, I'm off alone.