Argosy, Vol. 1 (December 9, 1882) — page 58: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

THE FETTERS OF IGNACIO. 49 “TI knew we should find him, sooner or later,” he whispered. “ It is one of Don Ignacio’s guards. I do not think that he ever leaves the coast of this island unpatroiled. I am certain that it is always well guarded after a storm. The man is there to capture or kill any human being who may be driven to the shore.” CHAPTER X V.—DISAPPOINTMENT AND INTERFERENCE. BEFORE replying Crenshawe stood for a full minute looking at the guard on the wreckage. Then, still holding Edwardes by the arm, he pulled him back into the thicket. “T don’t see why you didn’t forewarn me of this,” he said. “ Crenshawe,” replied the other, “it was mainly because I felt that you must get the conviction of your own eyes that this place is securely guarded from any possible escape. I might have told you, but you wouldn’t have believed me. At all events, you wouldn’t have felt the force of the situation as you do now.” : “No, I don’t think I should,” admitted Crenshawe gloomily. “And besides,” continued E,dwardes, “I was inspired by a great hope when you suggested this device. You are full of energy; you have the Ameri- can’s characteristic resourcefulness, and I thought that possibly where I had failed, both of us might succeed. I have tried this plan, or, rather, one very like it, and have learned that there is no avoiding the Don’s guard.” “Tam not so sure,” muttered Crenshawe darkly. “ There is only one man there——’” “ And he is armed.” “True, but there are two of us——” ‘Against many more than him. Listen, Crenshawe. It is that man’s business to shoot to kill if he sees any attempt to escape. The first shot from his rifle would arouse the next man on guard. He would instantly fire his weapon as a warning to others. How far should we get in the construction of a raft before all the forces of the Don would be down upon us? ” “We might creep up and overpower him before he could fire,” suggested Crenshawe. | “Tt would be useless. The guards do some patrolling. Just how sys- tematic I don’t pretend to say, but I am positive that two or three times during the night each guard marches up to a spot, where he meets the one who has the next beat, so to speak. We should surely be discovered. For God’s sake, old man, don’t think that I shall stand forever between you and your plans. I don’t mean to throw a wet blanket eternally on your schemes, but you see I know the situation.” “You seem to,” growled Crenshawe discontentedly. “ See for yourself, man,” exclaimed Edwardes, pointing through the foli- age towards the wreckage. Crenshawe had hardly removed his eyes from that spot while they were talking. He now saw the guard swing himself slowly down from his perch and start up the beach at a leisurely gait. He was coming towards them. 4 GOGO CO