"Gone in chase of some of the scoundrels," I thought; and then I began to think about Mr Reardon and Barkins and Smith.  "Poor old Tanner," I said to myself, "he wouldn't have been so disagreeable if it had not been for old Smith.  Tanner felt ashamed of it all the time.  But what a game for them to be plotting to get me into difficulties, and then find that I was picked out for this expedition!  I wish they were both here."