Page 51 (1/1)

Arflin did not stop to think, but he was sailing in treacherous waters where pirates and slers often sailed They would rob hi ofhim and then toss him overboard to let the sharks dispose of his body

Yachters are warned about this part of the Caribbean and to use extre that afternoon until he was sure he was out of Columbian waters He reefed the sails He had not taken the time to really look the boat over before he purchased it He let the boat drift while he gave it the once over Stowed in the forward cabin was a twelve gauge shotgun with a box of double ought shotgun shells He was sure the otten he left it aboard In a drawer in the galley was a sailing manual Arflin knew this would coh it He learned how to rig a sea anchor and secured the boat for the night He loaded the shotgun just to be on the safe side The salt sea air had parched his throat and he was ready for some fresh water The fact that the water was roo he opened a can of Vienna sausage and some saltine crackers and had that for dinner

After he finished eating he went on deck to think about what his next ht a lot about Lacey in Australia and wondered what she thought about him now If he could somehow start his life over, he kneould be with Lacey somewhere in Australia He knew of course that was only wishful thinking He also knew he could not run and hide forever Sooner or later there had to be an end He preferred death to life in prison and knew that was hoould go out, in a blaze of glory

After it got dark he went below and locked the hatch behind him If anyone tried to break in they have to ht sleeper and he would be waiting for theht, he heard soot up He waited to see if soain as it hit the side of the hull He silently unlocked the hatch and sloent on deck with the shotgun