Chapter 18
Chaos erupted as Marlow, Hornsby, and Ruford simultaneously shouted their objections. Hornsby was also furious with Zach and accused him of cheating.
“My dear Lord Hornsby, do take care in tossing about that accusation,” Zach said. His words were polite, but there was steel in his voice. “When I offered the map in our game, I was clear that it purported to lead to a treasure. The map itself was the wager, not what it may or may not lead the bearer to find.”
With a blistering set of oaths, Hornsby stalked off toward the stable. Ruford followed behind, demanding to know how Hornsby was going to reimburse him, as fifty percent of nothing wasn’t going to pay his expenses let alone turn a profit.
“Captain Ruford!” Nick called.
Ruford spun on his heel, the tall feather in his tri
