The strange disappearance of the map, followed by the sudden cessation of Mr.Chalk's visits, began to link themselves to this tale of unexpected wealth.

He bestowed another searching glance upon the agitated Mr.Tasker.
"You haven't sold anything lately, have you ?" he inquired, with startling gruffness.
"I haven't 'ad nothing to sell, sir," replied the other, in astonishment.
"And I dare say Mr.Vickers here saw a new pair o' boots on one o' the young'uns and dreamt all the rest." Mr.Vickers intervened with passion.
"That'll do," said the captain, sharply.

"How dare you make that noise in my house?
I think that the tale about the clothes is all right," he added, turning to Joseph.

"I saw them go into church looking very smart.
And you know nothing about it ?" Mr.Tasker's astonishment was too genuine to be mistaken, and the captain, watching him closely, transferred his suspicions to a more deserving object.

Mr.Vickers caught his eye and essayed a smile.
"Dry work talking, sir," he said, gently.
Captain Bowers eyed him steadily.