Uncle John had grown very uneasy by this time and he decided he ought to attempt to assist Maud.  So, addressing Captain Carg, he said in a positive tone: 

“We quite understand, sir, that it has been the policy of the owners of Sangoa to guard all knowledge of the island’s whereabouts from the outside world, as well as the fact that its pearl fisheries are very rich.  We understand that an influx of treasure-seekers would embarrass the Sangoans.  But we are close friends of young Mr. Jones and have no desire to usurp his island kingdom or seize his pearls.  Our only anxiety is to free him from an unjust suspicion.  A foolish man named Le Drieux accuses Jones of stealing a choice collection of pearls from a lady in Austria and fleeing with them to America.  He has a photograph of the real criminal, taken abroad, which curiously resembles your young master.”

Here the captain turned a quick look upon the speaker and for the first time his eyes lost their dull expression.  But he made no remark and Uncle John continued: 

“This man Le Drieux found several choice pearls in the possession of Mr. Jones, which he claims are a part of the stolen collection.  Hence he obtained your master’s arrest.  Jones says he brought the pearls from Sangoa, his home, where they were found.  No one here knows anything of Sangoa, so they regard his story with suspicion.  Now, sir, we believe that through you we can prove he has told the truth, and so secure his release.  Here is the important question:  Will you help us?”

“Willingly, sir,” replied the captain.

“Are you forbidden to tell us where Sangoa is, or anything about the island?”

“Yes, sir; I am forbidden to do that, under any circumstances,” was the ready answer.

“Have you been to Sangoa since you landed Mr. Jones in San Francisco, some fifteen months ago?”

“Yes, sir.”

“And did you bring back with you, on this trip, any pearls?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Have you already disposed of them?”

“No, sir.”

“Why not?”

“I am awaiting orders from my master.”

“Has he been aboard since you anchored here?”

“No, sir.”

“What were your instructions?”

“To anchor on this coast and await his coming.”

“Well,” said Mr. Merrick, reflectively, “I believe you can prove our case without telling the location of Sangoa.  An exhibition of the pearls you have brought ought to convince any reasonable judge.  Are there many of them in this lot?”

“Not so many as usual, sir.”

“Are they very choice ones?”

“Not so choice as usual, sir.”

Uncle John was greatly disappointed, but Maud exclaimed eagerly: 

“Let us see them, please!”