In a clearing Leej saw the low flicker of a lantern, and he felt his way through the brush and driftwood with his left hand; his right held a pistol behind his waistcoat. " This way, boys" he said. Two dark figures approached him, shotguns at ready. "You ain't the Captain," growled the tall thickset one." No, but I'm on the Captain's business. And I have the Captain's money." He displayed the envelope. "Now where are the goods."

The short silent one yanked a brush-covered tarpaulin from a stack of barrels. "Right chere," he said, "24 barrels worth." He grinned widely, displaying all three teeth." Ah hope you got more help 'n them two scrawny kids.And you don't look like yer dressed fer labor." Leej smiled. " No sir, I am no laborer. I am an overseer, and I will happily direct you two, and the lads, in loading this freight." The big one started toward him, mumbling " you goddam dandy!" Leej swiftly produced the pistol, pointing it in the big fellow's face. " I have two methods of payment, sir: The contents of the envelope, or the contents of this pistol. I will gladly let you choose the method you desire." The fellow flinched when he cocked the pistol. With a grunt, he picked up a barrel and started toward the boat.