"You remember this morning I told you that the treasure for which you
sought had gone? It is gone from the cave in which you hoped to find it.
But I will tell you now, I am the present possessor."

"Then I congratulate you most heartily," responded the professor. "May
you live long and enjoy it."

The chief shook his head, smiling the while. "I may find use for a
little of this wealth," he said, "and I am going to ask you, my dear
friend, to take it back with you."

"I will most gladly do your bidding."

"And fairly rewarded you shall be. I can trust you and I like the looks
of your associates." Saying this, he walked to the gunwale and called in
their native tongue to the occupants in the boats.

Upon his order, many bags of woven grass, their contents of considerable
weight, were hoisted aboard.

"Ten per cent of what this realizes, and I think there is value to a
quarter of a million, I want deposited to my credit in the Bank of
England. I may never call for it, but _all the remainder is yours_."

"Hurrah for the chief of Rarihue!" cried Tom, and a right ringing cheer
was given.

"And now," said Jim, "we must not tarry here. Professor, you have won
out and do not need me any longer. I have my Sea Eagle and her papers
indent her to Cuba. With Captain ter Tofte Luhrensen as sailing master,
to Cuba she shall go."

To Cuba the Sea Eagle did go, as those interested in the fortunes of the
Frontier Boys may learn in a volume to follow, "The Frontier Boys in
Cuba."

"You are released, albeit with reluctance," slowly answered the
professor, "and my thanks for your valued aid. Your share of our success
will be deposited in the Bank of America, New York, against your
homecoming."

"And whom can you spare to go with me, and who wants to go to fight for
freedom's cause?"

Jo and Juarez were quickly by his side and with less alacrity, Tom
joined them. All looked at Berwick.

"Mine for a quiet life," said that worthy, laughing. "I shall stay by
the professor."

A word more as to the steward. After careful consideration and a
talk with Mr. Jranvin, he was left with the islanders. He deserved
punishment, but his belated renunciation of his evil ways and his
helpfulness to Jim were taken into account.

As Jim had said, there was no time to be wasted, and within an hour
adieux had been said, and the two ships were steaming in absolutely
diverse directions, the one to San Francisco and the other to Cuba.