Merrick rounded a corner and entered a dark alleyway. Up ahead, the shadowy outlines of three men huddled together around the post of a lamp-lit porch. As he approached, they straightened. Merrick continued walking. Sloane fell in step beside him while the other men followed.

"He's there, Cap'n."

Merrick nodded.

"Are ye sure ye be knowin' what yer doin'?" Sloane asked.

Merrick glanced at his friend.

Sloane scratched his thick beard. "I mean, the ...