I have always found, if I wished to be unnoticed, it was best to get into a crowd; whereas he who lives in a village lives in open daylight.

But we will talk of these things when alone, Ghita--yonder fisherman is getting ready to receive us." By this time the skiff was near the shore, where a little yawl was anchored, containing a solitary fisherman.

This man was examining them as they approached; and, recognizing Raoul, he was gathering in his lines and preparing to raise his grapnel.

In a few minutes the two craft lay side by side; and then, though not without difficulty, owing to a very elaborate disguise, Ghita recognized Ithuel Bolt.

A very few words sufficed to let the American into all that it was necessary he should know, when the whole party made its arrangements to depart.