Hence arose naturally the idea of
preventing danger, profiting by Carthew's new-found
wealth, and buying the brig under an ALIAS; and it
was put in hand with equal energy and caution. Carthew
took lodgings alone under a false name, picked up
Bellairs at random, and commissioned him to buy the
wreck.
"What figure, if you please?" the lawyer asked.
"I want it bought," replied Carthew. "I don't mind
about the price."
"Any price is no price," said Bellairs. "Put a name
upon it."
"Call it ten thousand pounds then, if you like!" said
Carthew.
In the meanwhile the captain had to walk the streets,
appear in the consulate, be cross-examined by Lloyd's
agent, be badgered about his lost accounts, sign papers
with his left hand, and repeat his lies to every
skipper in San Francisco, not knowing at what moment he
might run into the arms of some old friend who should
hail him by the name of Wicks, or some new enemy who
should be in a position to deny him that of Trent. And
the latter incident did actually befall him, but was
transformed by his stout countenance into an element of
strength.
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