The daily Alaskan., 1919-05-01
CHAPTER VII.
The lieutenant Unmasked.

Inc EI6UIendnL 1HIH0oNSSs
 Where the craft could be bound; for what secret purpose 1t was atloat; who were aboard, were but so many unan- sweruble questions arising in my mind. Where could It have come from. unless from that strange Dutch bark? If 1t really came from the Namur or Rot terdam had 1t been sent In answer to some signal by Sanchez? 1 could think of nothing else. I determined to as- sure myself as to the identity of these strangers. If they had actually landed 1t would require only a few moments to ascertain the truth. The distance proved somewhat greater than antiei' pated. because of the deep curve in the shore and l had nearly reached the conclusion that the boat must have rounded the point and gone on when suddenly I was brought to halt by voice speaking In Spanish-one of those harsh croaking voices never to be reduced to a whisper.
 Not the spot Manuel? Of course 1t Is; do you not suppose know? This Is the place and now there Is nothing to do but walt. The senor-he will be here presently"
 "Ay, unless you misread the signal" a somewhat more discreet but piping voice replied doubtfully. 'l saw noth- ing of all you tell about, Estada."
 The two men went on to discuss plans evidently communicated to Es- tada by Sanchez from England. was about to creep nearer, when a new conner moved past me scarcely yard distant, along the narrow strip of sand. Directly opposite my covert he paused.
 "Estada." He spoke the name eau tiously.
 "Ay, captain" and another figure emerged nolselesSly from the gloom. I've await you"
 Good. I rather questioned If you caught my signal. was watched and obliged to exercise care. How many have you hereT
 -Four, senor, with Manuel Estevan."
 Quite sufficient. How Is 1t here? Are there suSpiciOnSW
 "None, senor We have cruised out side most of the time. There is no warships In these waters. You said you were being watched on the slOop. Are you knownT
 "A dog of a servant who came over with us-one of Monmouth's brood. The fellow watches me like hawk. We had some words aboard and there is hate between us"
 May l ask your plans, senorT
 "Yes, l am here to explain. This planter Fairfax, has returned from England with a large sum. It is in gold and notes. 1t represents the pro- ceeds of the tobacco crop of himself and a number of his neighbors. With out doubt 1t will be upward of fifty thousand pounds. This still remains in his possession, but q part will be dispersed tomorrow; so If We hope to gain the whole We must do so now. Everything is ready, and there is not the slightest suspicion of danger-not even d guard set over the treasure"
 'sChen il is at the hOuSef"
 Tn an irUn-bOund chest, In the room assigned to Fairfax for the night. Only two servants sleep in the main house. the cook and malG, both women. Fairfax is vigorous and will put up fight if ne has any chance. He must be taken care of before ne does have any. Trayers Is an old man, to be knocked out with blow. All we have 10 fear are those fellows or the slOOp, and they will have to be at tended tO quietly without any alarm reaching the house. l am going to leave fhut job to yOu-it'S not your