03 The black spot

Chapter 3 The black spot

Later that day, I took the captain a cool drink. Jim, he said, you're the only person here worth anything.

You'll bring me some rum, won't you, boy? The doctor said—I began.

He swore about the doctor. Look, Jim, one glass is all I ask. I'll pay you for it.

The only money I want, I said, is the money you owe my father. But I'll get you one glass of rum, no more.

He was grateful and drank it quickly. Did the doctor say how long I must lie in my bed? he asked.

A week, I told him. A week! he cried. I can't do that.

They'll have the black spot on me by then. They'll come for me. Who will? Black Dog? I said.

Yes, but there's worse than him. It's my old sea-chest they want, but I'll show them!

Jim, if I get the black spot, you go to that doctor. Tell him to bring a crowd of law officers and a local judge to the inn.