We operate this with three men as a crew.

That's not so bad.

Come along with us, Mark; we'll take a look at the cabin first, and then go forward." The three men stepped over the low rail, and moved aft across the deck, the leader talking fluently, and pointing out various things of interest.
His only object apparently was to arouse in West a desire to purchase.
The other man never spoke, and the latter gave no thought to his presence.

He had been rarely fortunate so far, and was looking for an opportunity to question his guide on the purpose of their voyage.

He would wait until later; until the examination had been completed, perhaps, when they believed him a possible purchaser.