“Eh?”

The leader in the shadow smiled.

"What a smart boy, and very brave."

He paused, and seven or eight big men with swords walked out behind him, lined up.

They were both former spice workers.

The leader took the scimitar from one of his hands, waved it twice, and looked at Lorraine with a grim smile.

"A life-and-death boy met a stupid master. No wonder you dare to do business with the merchants in the Black Port without the consent of the Black Port Commission..."

"What are you... going to do!" Lake spoke incoherently in horror, "Mr. Barry...Mr. Barry..."

"Your friend Mr. Peter is bankrupt. In order not to let his beautiful lady and daughter fall into turmoil, he has given you and your ship to the creditor, Mr. Thomas."

The leader explained with a smile.

"Mr. Martin of the Committee is a witness, proving that you have traded in Black Harbor without the permission of the Committee. In this way, you have lost the protection of the laws of Black Harbor."

"Mr. Thomas sold you to Mr. Barry, not expensive, and with the man and the boat, one hundred pounds, to pay off Mr. Pitt's debt and the compensation required by Mr. Martin."
Chapter completed!