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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Buccaneer Chief, by Gustave Aimard,
+Translated by Lascelles Wraxall
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: The Buccaneer Chief
+       A Romance of the Spanish Main
+
+
+Author: Gustave Aimard
+
+
+
+Release Date: December 7, 2013  [eBook #44380]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BUCCANEER CHIEF***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Camille Bernard and Marc D'Hooghe
+(http://www.freeliterature.org) from page images generously made available
+by the Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford
+(http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk)
+
+
+
+Note: Images of the original pages are available through
+      Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford. See
+      http://purl.ox.ac.uk/uuid/324b5598fbd44321abe105868fb7f75a
+
+
+
+
+
+THE BUCCANEER CHIEF
+
+A Romance of the Spanish Main
+
+by
+
+GUSTAVE AIMARD
+
+Author of Smuggler Chief, Strong Hand, etc.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+London
+Ward and Lock, 158, Fleet Street
+MDCCCLXIV
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+       I. THE HOSTELRY OF THE COURT OF FRANCE
+      II. A FAMILY SCENE
+     III. THE ARREST
+      IV. THE ISLE OF SAINTE MARGUERITE
+       V. A BACKWARD GLANCE
+      VI. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
+     VII. DESPAIR
+    VIII. THE PRISONER
+      IX. MAJOR DE L'OURSIČRE
+       X. THE SEAGULL LUGGER
+      XI. FRANCE, FAREWELL!
+     XII. THE BEGINNING OF THE ADVENTURE
+    XIII. THE COUNCIL OF THE FILIBUSTERS
+     XIV. THE SECOND PROPOSAL
+      XV. THE SPY
+     XVI. THE SLAVE SALE
+    XVII. THE ENLISTMENT
+   XVIII. NEVIS
+     XIX. THE EXPEDITION
+      XX. THE HATTO
+     XXI. THE MAJOR-DOMO'S STORY
+    XXII. ACROSS COUNTRY
+   XXIII. COMPLICATIONS
+    XXIV. PORT MARGOT
+     XXV. FRAY ARSENIO
+    XXVI. THE CONSEQUENCES OF A MEETING
+   XXVII. THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COLONY
+  XXVIII. THE FLIGHT FROM THE HATTO
+    XXIX. EVENTS ACCUMULATE
+     XXX. THE EXTERMINATOR
+
+
+
+
+THE BUCCANEER CHIEF.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+THE HOSTELRY OF THE COURT OF FRANCE.
+
+
+Although the Seine, from Chanceaux, its fountainhead, to Havre, where
+it falls into the sea, is not more than four hundred miles in length,
+still, in spite of this comparatively limited course, this river is
+one of the most important in the world; for, from the days of Cæsar up
+to the present, it has seen all the great social questions which have
+agitated modern times decided on its banks.
+
+Tourists, artists, and travellers, who go a long distance in search of
+scenery, could not find anything more picturesque or more capriciously
+diversified than the winding banks of this river, which is skirted by
+commercial towns and pretty villages, coquettishly arranged on the
+sides of verdant valleys, or half disappearing in the midst of dense
+clumps of trees.
+
+It is in one of these villages, situated but a few leagues from Paris,
+that our story began, on March 26th, 1641.
+
+This village, whose origin dates back to the earliest period of the
+French Monarchy, was at that time pretty nearly what it is now;
+differing in this respect from all the hamlets that surround it, it has
+remained stationary; on seeing it you might fancy that centuries have
+not passed as far as it is concerned. When the neighbouring hamlets
+became villages, and were finally transformed into large towns, it
+continually decreased, so that its population at the present day scarce
+attains the amount of four hundred inhabitants.
+
+And yet its situation is most happy: traversed by a stream and bordered
+by a river, possessing an historic castle, and forming an important
+station on one of the railway lines, it seemed destined to become an
+industrial centre, the more so because its inhabitants are industrious
+and intelligent.
+
+But there is a spell upon the place. The great landowners who have
+succeeded each other in the country, and who mostly grew rich in the
+political commotions, or by risky speculations, have tacitly agreed
+to impede in every possible way the industrial aspirations of the
+population--have ever egotistically sacrificed public interest to their
+private advantage.
+
+Thus the historic castle to which we alluded has fallen into the hands
+of a man who, sprung from nothing, and feeling himself stifled within
+its walls, allows them to crumble away before the effects of time, and,
+to save the expense of a gardener, sows oats in the majestic alleys
+of a park, designed by Le Nôtre, whose grand appearance strikes with
+admiration the traveller, who sees it at a distance as he is borne past
+in the train.
+
+The same thing is going on in the whole of this unhappy hamlet, which
+is condemned to die of inanition in the midst of the abundance of its
+neighbours.
+
+This village was composed at the period of our narrative of a single
+long narrow street, which ran down from the top of a scarped hill,
+crossed a small rivulet, and terminated only a few yards from the Seine.
+
+This street, through its entire length, was bordered by low, ugly
+tenements, pressing closely together, as if for mutual support, and
+mostly serving as pothouses for the waggoners and other people who at
+this period, when the great network of the French royal roads had not
+yet been made, continually passed through this village, and sought
+shelter there for the night.
+
+The top of the street was occupied by a very wealthy, religious
+community, next to which stood a large building hidden at the end of
+a spacious garden, and serving as hostelry for the wealthy personages
+whom their business or pleasure brought to this place, which was
+surrounded for ten leagues round by sumptuous seigneurial mansions.
+
+There was nothing externally to cause this building to be recognized as
+an inn; a low gateway gave access to the garden, and it was not till
+the traveller had gone along the whole of the latter that he found
+himself in front of the house.
+
+It had, however, another entrance, looking out on a road but little
+frequented at the time, and which was employed by horses and coaches,
+when the traveller had succeeded in obtaining the landlord's leave to
+put up there.
+
+Although this house, as we said, was a hostelry, its owner did not
+admit everybody who proposed to lodge there; on the contrary, he was
+very difficult in the choice of his guests, asserting, rightly or
+wrongly, that a hostelry, which had been honoured on several occasions
+by the presence of the King and the Cardinal Minister, must not serve
+as an asylum either for vagabonds or nightbirds.
+
+In order to justify the right he claimed, the landlord had, a few
+months previously, had the arms of France daubed on a metal plate by
+a strolling painter, and inscribed under it in golden letters--"_The
+Court of France._" This sign he put up over his door.
+
+This inn enjoyed a great reputation, not only in the country, but in
+all the surrounding provinces, and even as far as Paris--a reputation,
+we are bound to add, well deserved, for if mine host was particular in
+the choice of his lodgers, when the latter had succeeded in gaining
+admission he treated them, men and beasts, with a peculiar care, that
+had something paternal about it.
+
+Although it was getting on for the end of March, and, according to the
+almanac, 'Spring had begun some days previously,' the cold was nipping,
+the rime-laden trees stood out sadly against the leaden sky, and a
+thick, hardened layer of snow covered the ground for some depth.
+
+Although it was about ten o'clock at night, it was light, and the moon,
+floating in russet clouds, profusely shed her sickly beams, which
+rendered it almost as light as day.
+
+All were asleep in the village, or, at least, seemed to be so; the
+_Court of France_ alone emitted a light through its ground floor barred
+windows, which proved that somebody was still up there.
+
+Still, the inn did not offer shelter to any traveller.
+
+All those who during the day, and since nightfall, had presented
+themselves, had been mercilessly turned away by the landlord, a stout
+man, with a rubicund face, intelligent features, and a crafty smile,
+who was walking at this moment with an air of preoccupation up and
+down his immense kitchen, every now and then casting an absent glance
+at the preparations for supper, one portion of which was roasting
+before a colossal fireplace, whilst the rest was being got ready by a
+master cook and several assistants.
+
+A middle-aged, short, plump woman, suddenly burst into the kitchen, and
+addressed the landlord, who had turned round at the noise.
+
+"Is it true," she asked, "Master Pivois, that you have ordered the dais
+room to be got ready, as Mariette declares?"
+
+Master Pivois drew himself up.
+
+"What did Mariette tell you?" he enquired, sternly.
+
+"Well, she told me to prepare the best bedroom."
+
+"Which is the best bedroom, Dame Tiphaine?"
+
+"The dais room, master, since it is the one in which His Majesty--"
+
+"In that case," mine host interrupted her, in a peremptory tone,
+"prepare the dais room."
+
+"Still, master," Dame Tiphaine ventured--who possessed a certain amount
+of credit in the house, in the first place, as legitimate spouse of the
+landlord himself, and then, again, through sundry very marked traits of
+character--"with all the respect I owe you, it seems to me--"
+
+"With all the respect I owe you," he exclaimed, stamping his foot
+passionately, "you're a fool, my good creature, obey my orders, and do
+not trouble me further!"
+
+Dame Tiphaine comprehended that her lord and master was not in a
+humour that evening for being contradicted. Like a prudent woman, she
+bowed her head and withdrew, reserving to herself the right of taking
+a startling revenge at a future date for the sharp reprimand she had
+received.
+
+Doubtless satisfied with his display of authority, Master Pivois, after
+taking a triumphant glance at his subordinates, who were surprised at
+this unusual act of vigour, though they did not dare show it, walked
+toward a door that led into the garden; but at the moment when he laid
+his hand on the key, this door, vigorously thrust from the outside,
+opened right in the face of the startled landlord, who tottered back to
+the middle of the room, and a man entered the kitchen.
+
+"At last!" the stranger said, joyously, as he threw his plumed hat on
+a table and took off his cloak. "By heaven! I almost found myself in a
+desert."
+
+And before mine host, who was growing more and more astounded at
+his cool behaviour, had the time to oppose it, he took a chair, and
+comfortably installed himself in the chimney corner.
+
+The newcomer appeared to be not more than twenty-five years of age;
+long black curls fell in disorder on his shoulders; his marked features
+were noble and intelligent; his black eyes, full of fire, announced
+courage, and the habit of commanding; his countenance had a certain
+stamp of grandeur, tempered by the cordial smile that played round
+his wide mouth, full of brilliantly white teeth; his red, and rather
+swollen lips, were adorned, according to the fashion of the day, with
+a most carefully waxed moustache, while his square chin, indicative of
+obstinacy, was covered by a long royale.
+
+His dress, while not rich, was, however, becoming--cut with taste,
+and affected a certain military air, which was rendered more marked
+by the brace of pistols the stranger carried in his belt, and the long
+iron-handled sword that hung at his side.
+
+Altogether, his lofty stature, and muscular, well-developed person,
+and the air of audacity spread all over him, rendered him one of those
+men, the breed of whom was so common at the period, and who at the
+first glance contrived to claim from people with whom accident brought
+them in contact that respect to which, whether justly or unjustly, they
+believed they had a right.
+
+In the meanwhile, the landlord, who had slightly recovered from the
+emotion and surprise he had experienced at what he almost regarded
+as a violation of his domicile, advanced a few steps toward the
+stranger, and while bowing lower than he had intended, and doffing his
+cotton nightcap before the flashing glance the other bent on him, he
+stammered, in anything but a steady voice--
+
+"My lord--"
+
+But the latter interrupted him without ceremony.
+
+"Are you the landlord?" he asked, sharply.
+
+"Yes," Master Pivois grunted, as he drew himself up, feeling quite
+constrained at answering when he was preparing to question.
+
+"Very good," the stranger continued; "look after my horse, which I left
+I know not where in your garden; have him put in the stable, and tell
+the ostler to wash his withers with a little vinegar and water, for I
+am afraid he has hurt himself a little."
+
+These words were uttered so carelessly, that the landlord stood utterly
+confounded, unable to utter a syllable.
+
+"Well," the stranger continued, at the expiration of a moment, with
+a slight frown, "what are you doing here, ass, instead of obeying my
+orders?"
+
+Master Pivois, completely subdued, turned on his heels, and left the
+room, tottering like a drunken man.
+
+The stranger looked after him with a smile, and then turned to the
+waiting-men, who were whispering together, and taking side-glances at
+him.
+
+"Come and wait on me," he said; "place a table here before me near the
+fire, and bring me some supper--make haste, s'death, or I shall die of
+hunger!"
+
+The waiting-men, delighted in their hearts at playing their master
+a trick, did not let the order be repeated; in a second a table was
+brought up, the cloth laid, and, on re-entering the room, the landlord
+found the stranger in the act of carving a magnificent partridge.
+
+Master Pivois assumed at the sight all the colours of the rainbow--at
+first pale, he turned so red that a fit of apoplexy might be
+apprehended, so vivid was his emotion.
+
+"By Heaven," he exclaimed, stamping his foot angrily, "that is too
+much."
+
+"What?" the stranger asked, as he raised his head and wiped his
+moustache; "What is the matter with you, my good man?"
+
+"Matter, indeed!" mine host growled.
+
+"By the way, is my horse in the stable?"
+
+"Your horse, your horse," the other grumbled, "as if that is troubling
+me."
+
+"What is it then, if you please, master mine?" the stranger asked, as
+he poured out a bumper which he conscientiously drained to the last
+drop. "Ah," he said, "it is Juranįon; I recognise it."
+
+This indifference and this coolness raised the landlord's anger to the
+highest pitch, and caused him to forget all prudence.
+
+"Cogswounds," he said, boldly seizing the bottle, "it is a strange
+piece of impudence thus to enter an honest house without the owner's
+permission; decamp at once, my fine gentleman, unless you wish harm
+to befall you, and seek a lodging elsewhere, for, as far as I am
+concerned, I cannot and will not give you one."
+
+The stranger had not moved a feature during this harangue; he had
+listened to Master Pivois without displaying the slightest impatience:
+when the landlord at length held his tongue, he threw himself back in
+his chair, and looked him fixedly in the face.
+
+"Listen to me in your turn, master," he said to him, "and engrave these
+words deeply on your narrow brain: this house is an inn, is it not?
+Hence it must be open without hesitation to every stranger who comes
+here for food and lodging with money in his pocket. I am aware that you
+claim the right of only receiving such persons as you think proper; if
+there are people who put up with that, it is their business, but for my
+part, I do not intend to do so. I feel comfortable here, so I remain,
+and shall remain as long as I think proper; I do not prevent you from
+swindling me, for that is your duty as a landlord, and I have no right
+to object; but, if I am not served politely and dexterously--if you do
+not give me a proper bedroom to spend the night in--in a word, if you
+do not perform the duties of hospitality toward me in the way I expect,
+I promise to pull down your signboard, and hang you up in its place,
+on the slightest infraction you are guilty of. And now I suppose you
+understand me?" he added, squeezing the other's hand so hard that the
+poor fellow uttered a yell of agony, and went tottering against the
+kitchen wall: "Serve me, then, and let us have no more argument, for
+you would not get the best of the quarrel if you picked one with me."
+
+And without paying further attention to the landlord, the traveller
+continued his interrupted supper.
+
+It was all over with the landlord's attempted resistance; he felt
+himself vanquished, and did not attempt a struggle which had now become
+impossible. Confused and humiliated, he only thought of satisfying this
+strange guest who had installed himself by main force in the house.
+
+The traveller did not in any way abuse his victory; satisfied with
+having obtained the result he desired, he did not take the slightest
+liberty.
+
+The result was that gradually, from one concession to another--the one
+offering, the other not refusing--they became on the best possible
+terms; and toward the end of the supper, mine host and the traveller
+found themselves, without knowing how, the most affectionate friends in
+the world.
+
+They were talking together. First of the rain and fine weather, the
+dearness of provisions, the king's illness, and that of his Eminence
+the Cardinal; then, growing gradually bolder, Master Pivois poured out
+a huge bumper of wine for his improvised guest, and collected all his
+courage.
+
+"Do you know, my good gentleman," he said to him suddenly, shaking his
+head with an air of contrition, "that you are fearfully in my way?"
+
+"Stuff!" the stranger answered, as he tossed off the contents of his
+glass, and shrugged his shoulders, "Are we coming back to the old
+story of just now? I thought that settled long ago."
+
+"Alas! I would it were so for everybody as it is for me."
+
+"What do you mean?"
+
+"Pray do not get into a passion, sir," the landlord continued timidly;
+"I have not the slightest intention of insulting you."
+
+"In that case explain yourself in the Fiend's name, my master, and come
+frankly to the point; I do not understand what others beside yourself
+have to do in the matter."
+
+"That is just the difficulty," said Master Pivois, scratching his head.
+
+"Speak, zounds! I am not an ogre; what is it that causes you such
+anxiety?"
+
+The landlord saw that he must out with it, and fear giving him courage,
+he bravely made up his mind.
+
+"Monseigneur," he said, honestly, "believe me that I am too much the
+man of the world to venture to act with rudeness to a gentleman of your
+importance--"
+
+"Enough of that," the stranger interrupted, with a smile.
+
+"But--" the host continued.
+
+"Ah! There is a _but_."
+
+"Alas! Monseigneur, there always is one, and today a bigger one than
+ever."
+
+"Hang it all, you terrify me, master," the stranger remarked, with a
+laugh; "tell me quickly, I beg of you, what this terrible but is."
+
+"Alas! Monseigneur, it is this: my entire hostelry was engaged a week
+ago by a party of gentlemen; I expect them to arrive in an hour--half
+an hour, perhaps, and--"
+
+"And?" the stranger asked, in an enquiring tone, which caused the host
+to shudder.
+
+"Well, Monseigneur," he resumed in a choking voice, "these gentlemen
+insist on having the hostelry to themselves, and made me swear not to
+receive any other traveller but themselves, and paid me to that effect."
+
+"Very good," said the stranger, with an air of indifference.
+
+"What do you say; very good? Monseigneur," Master Pivois exclaimed.
+
+"Hang it! What else would you have me say? You have strictly fulfilled
+your engagement, and no one has the right to reproach you."
+
+"How so, sir?"
+
+"Unless you have someone concealed here," the stranger answered,
+imperturbably, "which, I confess, would not be at all honourable on
+your part."
+
+"I have nobody."
+
+"Well, then?"
+
+"But you, monseigneur?" he hazarded timidly.
+
+"Oh, I," the stranger replied laughingly, "that is another affair; let
+us make a distinction, if you please, master; you did not receive me,
+far from it; I pressed my company on you, as I think you will allow."
+
+"It is only too true."
+
+"Do you regret it?"
+
+"Far from it, monseigneur," he exclaimed eagerly, for he was not at all
+desirous of re-arousing the slumbering wrath of the irascible stranger;
+"I am only stating a fact."
+
+"Very good, I see with pleasure, Master Pivois, that you are a very
+serious man; you are stating a fact, you say?"
+
+"Alas! yes," the luckless host sighed.
+
+"Very good; now follow my reasoning closely."
+
+"I am doing so."
+
+"When these gentlemen arrive, which according to your statement, will
+be soon, you will only have one thing to do."
+
+"What is it, monseigneur?"
+
+"Tell them exactly what has passed between us. If I am not greatly
+mistaken this honest explanation will satisfy them; if it be
+otherwise--"
+
+"Well, if it be so, what am I to do, sir?"
+
+"Refer them to me, Master Pivois, and I will undertake in my turn to
+convince them; gentlemen of good birth perfectly understand each other."
+
+"Still, monseigneur--"
+
+"Not a word more on this subject, I must request; but stay," he added,
+and listened, "I believe your company are arriving."
+
+And he carelessly threw himself back in his chair.
+
+Outside, the trampling of horses on the hardened snow could be
+distinctly heard, and then several blows were dealt on the door.
+
+"It is they," the host muttered.
+
+"A further reason not to keep them waiting; go and open the door,
+master, for it is very cold outside."
+
+The landlord hesitated for a moment and then left the room without
+replying.
+
+The stranger carefully folded himself in his mantle, pulled the brim of
+his beaver over his eyes, and awaited the entrance of the newcomers,
+while affecting an air of indifference.
+
+The waiting-men, who had sought shelter in the most remote corner of
+the room, were trembling in the prevision of a disturbance.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+A FAMILY SCENE.
+
+
+In the meanwhile the new arrivals were making a great noise in the
+road, and seemed to be growing impatient at the delay in letting them
+into the hostelry.
+
+Master Pivois at length decided to open to them, though he was
+suffering from a secret apprehension as to the consequences which the
+presence of a stranger in the house might have for him.
+
+As soon as a stable-lad had by his orders, drawn back the bolts,
+and opened the carriage-gates, several horsemen entered the yard,
+accompanied by a coach drawn by four horses.
+
+By the light of the lanthorn held by his lad the landlord perceived
+that the travellers were seven in number; three masters, three
+servants, and the coachman on the box. All were wrapped up in thick
+cloaks, and armed to the teeth.
+
+So soon as the coach had entered the yard, the horsemen dismounted;
+one of them, who appeared to exercise a certain authority over his
+companions, walked up to the landlord, while the others brought the
+coach up to the main entrance of the house, and closed the gates.
+
+"Well, master," said the traveller to whom we allude, with a very
+marked foreign accent, although he expressed himself very purely in
+French; "have my orders been punctually executed?"
+
+At this question, which was very embarrassing to him, Master Pivois
+scratched his head, and then replied like the cunning peasant he was--
+
+"As far as possibly, yes, my lord."
+
+"What do you mean, scoundrel?" the traveller resumed roughly; "Your
+instructions were precise enough."
+
+"Yes, my lord," the landlord said humbly; "and I will even add that I
+was liberally paid beforehand."
+
+"In that case, what have you to say?"
+
+"That I have done the best I could," Master Pivois replied in growing
+confusion.
+
+"Ah! I suppose you mean that you have someone in the house?"
+
+"Alas! yes, my lord," the landlord answered, hanging his head.
+
+The traveller stamped his foot passionately.
+
+"S'blood!" he exclaimed; then, at once resuming an apparent calmness,
+he continued, "Who are the persons?"
+
+"There is only one."
+
+"Ah!" said the traveller, with satisfaction, "If there be only one,
+nothing is more easy than to dislodge him."
+
+"I fear not," the landlord ventured timidly, "for this traveller, who
+is a stranger to me, I swear, looks to me like a rude gentleman, and
+not at all inclined to surrender his place."
+
+"Well, well, I will take it on myself," the traveller remarked
+carelessly, "where is he?"
+
+"There, in the kitchen, my lord, warming himself at the fire."
+
+"That will do; is the room ready?"
+
+"Yes, my lord."
+
+"Rejoin those gentlemen, and show them the way yourself; none of your
+people must know what takes place here."
+
+The landlord, delighted at having got off so cheaply, bowed
+respectfully, and hastily retired in the direction of the garden;
+as for the traveller, after exchanging a few whispered words with a
+footman, who remained with him, he pulled his hat over his eyes, opened
+the door, and boldly entered the kitchen.
+
+It was deserted: the stranger had disappeared.
+
+The traveller looked anxiously around him; the waiting men, probably
+in obedience to orders previously received from their master, had
+withdrawn to their attics.
+
+After a few seconds' hesitation, the traveller returned to the garden.
+
+"Well," the landlord asked, "have you seen him, my lord?"
+
+"No," he replied, "but it is of no consequence; not a word about him to
+the persons who accompany me; he has doubtless left, but if that be not
+the case, be careful that he does not approach the apartments you have
+reserved for us."
+
+"Hum," the landlord muttered to himself, "all this is not clear;" and
+he withdrew very pensively.
+
+Truth to tell, the worthy man was frightened. His new customers had
+unpleasant faces, and a rough manner, which reassured him but slightly;
+and then again he fancied he had seen alarming shadows gliding about
+among the trees in his garden, a fact which he had carefully avoided
+verifying, but which heightened his secret apprehensions.
+
+Dame Tiphaine, torch in hand, was waiting at the house door, in
+readiness to light the travellers, and conduct them to their
+apartments. When the coach had been turned and stopped, one of the
+travellers went up to it, opened the door, and assisted a lady in
+getting out.
+
+This lady, who was magnificently dressed, appeared to be suffering,
+and she walked with difficulty. Still, in spite of her weakness, she
+declined the arm of one of the travellers offered her in support, and
+approached Dame Tiphaine, who, compassionate like all women, hastened
+to offer her the service she seemed to request of her, and helped her
+to ascend the rather steep staircase that led to the dais room.
+
+The travellers left the driver and a lackey to guard the coach, which
+remained horsed, and silently followed the sick lady.
+
+The dais room, the finest in the inn, was spacious and furnished with
+a certain amount of luxury; a large fire crackled on the hearth, and
+several candles, placed on the furniture, diffused a rather bright
+light.
+
+A door half hidden by tapestry communicated with a bedroom, that had a
+door opening on the passage, for the convenience of the attendants.
+
+When the lady had entered the room, she sank into a chair, and thanked
+the landlady with a bow.
+
+The latter discreetly withdrew, astonished and almost terrified by the
+gloomy faces which surrounded her.
+
+"Holy Virgin!" she said to Master Pivois, whom she found walking in
+great anxiety along the passage, "What's going to happen here? These
+men frighten me; that poor lady is all of a tremble, and the little I
+saw of her face behind her mask, is as white as a sheet."
+
+"Alas!" Master Pivois said with a sigh, "I am as frightened as you, my
+dear, but we can do nothing; they are too great people for us--friends
+of his Eminence. They would crush us without pity; we have only one
+thing to do, and that is to retire to our room, as we received orders
+to do, and to keep quiet till our services are required; the house is
+theirs, at this moment they are the masters."
+
+The landlord and his wife went into their room, and not satisfied with
+double locking their door, barricaded it with everything that came to
+hand.
+
+As Master Pivois had said to his wife, the travellers were certainly
+masters of the inn, or at least believed themselves so.
+
+The stranger, while feigning the deepest indifference, had watched the
+landlord's every movement: as soon as the latter left the kitchen to
+open the door for the newcomers, he rose, threw a purse of gold to the
+scullions, while putting his finger on his lips to recommend silence to
+them, and carefully wrapping himself in his mantle, left the kitchen.
+
+The scullions, with the intelligence characteristic of the class,
+comprehended that this action of the stranger concealed some plans in
+the execution of which it was to their interest not to interfere; they
+divided the money so generously given them, and remembering the orders
+they had received from their master, they hastily decamped, and went
+off to hide themselves.
+
+The stranger, while the landlord was receiving the travellers, had
+proceeded to the thickest part of the garden.
+
+On reaching the little gate to which we have referred, he whistled
+gently.
+
+Almost immediately two men seemed to rise from the midst of the
+darkness, and came up to him.
+
+Each of these men had a long rapier at his side, pistols in his girdle,
+and a musketoon in his hand.
+
+"What is there new?" the stranger asked; "Have you seen anything,
+Michael?"
+
+"Captain," the man answered, to whom the question was addressed, "I
+have seen nothing, but still I fear a trap."
+
+"A trap?" the stranger repeated.
+
+"Yes," Michael continued, "Bowline has taken bearings of several
+ill-looking fellows who seem desirous of boarding us."
+
+"Stuff! You are mad, Michael. You have seen the travellers who have
+just arrived at the inn."
+
+"No, captain; on the contrary, they exactly resemble the fellows who
+have been chasing us ever since the day before yesterday, regular
+Cardinal's bloodhounds, I'll wager."
+
+The stranger appeared to reflect. "Are they far off?" he at length
+asked.
+
+"Speak, Bowline, my boy," said Michael, turning to his comrade, "and
+don't shiver your sails, the captain is hailing you."
+
+"Well, then, Captain," said Bowline, a sturdy Breton, with a crafty
+look, "I sighted them over the starboard quarter at about four o'clock;
+I spread all my canvas to distance them, and I fancy I have left them
+four or five cables length in the rear."
+
+"In that case we have about an hour before us?"
+
+"Yes, about, Captain," Bowline replied.
+
+"That is more than we want; listen, my lads, and swear on your honour
+as sailors to obey me."
+
+"You may be quite sure we shan't fail, Captain," they answered.
+
+"I reckon on you."
+
+"Shiver my topsails, we know that," Michael replied.
+
+"Whatever may happen to me," the stranger continued, "leave me to act
+alone, unless I give you express orders to come to my assistance. If
+the Cardinal's bloodhounds were to arrive while we are up aloft, you
+will bolt."
+
+"We bolt!" the two sailors exclaimed.
+
+"You must, lads! Who would deliver me if we were all three prisoners?"
+the stranger asked.
+
+"That's true," Michael answered.
+
+"Well then, that's settled, is it not?"
+
+"Yes, Captain."
+
+"Ah! By the way, if I am arrested you will want money to liberate me;
+take this."
+
+He placed in their hands a heavy purse, which the sailors accepted
+without any remark.
+
+"Now follow me, and keep your weather eye open, my lads."
+
+"All right, Captain," Michael answered, "we are on watch."
+
+The stranger then proceeded towards the house, closely followed by
+the two sailors. He reached the passage, at the end of which the
+travellers' room was, at the moment when Master Pivois and his wife
+were locking themselves in their bedroom.
+
+The coach, guarded by the driver and a footman, was still standing in
+front of the principal entrance, but the three men passed unnoticed.
+
+So soon as the landlady had left the room, the traveller who appeared
+to have a certain degree of authority over his companions, opened the
+bedroom door, doubtless to make certain there was no spy listening;
+then he took a chair, sat down by the fire, and made a sign to his
+companions to imitate him; the two lackeys alone remained standing near
+the door, with their hands resting on the muzzles of their carbines,
+butts of which were on the ground.
+
+For some moments there was a funereal silence in this room, although
+six persons were assembled in it.
+
+At length the traveller made up his mind to speak, and addressed the
+young lady, who was reclining in her chair, with her head bent on her
+breast and pendant arms.
+
+"My daughter," he said, in a grave voice, and speaking in Spanish, "the
+moment has arrived for a clear and distinct explanation between us,
+for we have only four leagues to travel ere we reach the end of our
+long journey. I intend to remain twenty-four hours in this hostelry, in
+order to give you time to repair your strength, and allow you to appear
+in a proper state before the man for whom I destine you."
+
+The young lady only replied to this dry address by a hollow groan.
+
+Her father continued, without appearing to notice the utter state of
+prostration in which she was--
+
+"Remember, my daughter, that if, on the entreaty of your brothers here
+present, I consented to pardon the fault you have committed, it is on
+the express condition that you will obey my orders without hesitation,
+and do all I wish."
+
+"My child?" she murmured, in a voice choked by grief--"What have you
+done with my child?"
+
+The traveller frowned, and a livid pallor covered his face; but he
+immediately recovered himself.
+
+"That question again, unhappy girl?" he said, in a gloomy voice;
+"Do not trifle with my wrath by reminding me of your crime, and the
+dishonour of my house."
+
+At these words the girl drew herself up suddenly, and with a hurried
+gesture pulled off the velvet mask that covered her face.
+
+"I am not guilty," she said, in a haughty voice, and looking her father
+in the face; "and you are perfectly aware of it, for it was you who
+introduced the Count de Barmont to me. You encouraged our love, and it
+was by your orders that we were secretly married. You dare not assert
+the contrary."
+
+"Silence, wretch!" the traveller exclaimed, and rose passionately.
+
+"Father!" the two gentlemen, who had hitherto remained motionless and
+as if strangers to this stormy interview, exclaimed, as they threw
+themselves before him.
+
+"Well," he said, as he resumed his seat, "I will restrain myself: I
+will only ask you one further question, Doņa Clara--will you obey me?"
+
+She hesitated for a moment, and then appeared to form a supreme
+resolution.
+
+"Listen to me, my father," she replied, in a hurried though firm voice;
+"you told me yourself that the moment for an explanation between us
+had arrived; very well, let us have this explanation. I, too, am your
+daughter, and jealous of the honour of our house; that is why I insist
+on your answering me without equivocation or deception."
+
+While speaking thus, the young lady, who was only sustained by the
+factitious strength sorrow imparted to her, for she was frail and
+delicate, was supremely beautiful; with her body bent back, her head
+haughtily raised, her long and silky black hair falling in disorder on
+her shoulders, and contrasting with the marble pallor of her face; with
+her large eyes, inflamed by fever and inundated with tears, that slowly
+coursed down her cheeks, and with her bosom heaving from the emotion
+that held mastery over her--there was about her whole person something
+deathly, which seemed no longer to belong to the earth.
+
+Her father felt involuntarily affected, in spite of his ferocious
+pride; and it was with a less rough voice he replied--
+
+"I am listening to you."
+
+"Father," she resumed, leaning her hand on the back of her chair in
+order to support herself, "I told you that I am not guilty, and I
+repeat that the Count de Barmont and myself were secretly united in
+the church of la Merced at Cadiz, and were so by your orders. As you
+know it, I will not dwell further on this point; my child is, therefore
+legitimate, and I have a right to be proud of it. How is it, then, that
+you, the Duke de Peņaflor, belonging to the highest class in Spain,
+not satisfied with tearing me on the very day of marriage from the
+husband yourself selected, and depriving me of my infant on the day
+of its birth, accused me of committing a horrible crime, and insisted
+on enchaining me to another husband, while my first is still living?
+Answer me, my father, so that I may know the nature of that honour
+about which you so often speak to me, and what is the motive that
+renders you so cruel to an unfortunate girl, who owes her life to you,
+and who, ever since she has been in this world, has only felt love and
+respect for you."
+
+"This is too much, unnatural daughter!" the Duke shouted, as he rose
+wrathfully--"And as you are not afraid of braving me so unworthily--"
+
+But he suddenly checked himself, and stood motionless, trembling with
+fury and horror; the bedroom door had suddenly opened, and a man
+appeared in it, upright, haughty, with flashing eye, and hand on his
+sword hilt.
+
+"Ludovic, at last!" the young lady shrieked, as she rushed towards him.
+
+But her brothers caught her by the arms, and constrained her to sit
+down again.
+
+"The Count de Barmont!" the Duke muttered.
+
+"Myself, my lord Duke de Peņaflor," the stranger replied, with
+exquisite politeness--"you did not expect me, it appears to me?"
+
+And, walking a few paces into the room, while the two sailors who had
+followed him guarded the door, he proudly put his hat on again, and
+folded his arms.
+
+"What is going on here?" he asked, in a haughty voice; "And who dares
+to use violence to the Countess de Barmont?"
+
+"The Countess de Barmont?" the Duke repeated, contemptuously.
+
+"It is true," the other remarked, ironically; "I forget that you expect
+at any moment a dispensation from the Court of Home, which will declare
+my marriage null and void, and allow you to give your daughter to the
+man whose credit has caused you to be nominated Viceroy of New Spain."
+
+"Sir!" the Duke exclaimed.
+
+"What, do you pretend I am in error? No, no, my lord Duke, my spies are
+as good as yours--I am well served, believe me: thank heaven I have
+arrived in time to prevent it. Make way there!" he said, repulsing by a
+gesture the two gentlemen who opposed his passage--"I am your husband,
+madam; follow me, I shall be able to protect you."
+
+The two young men, leaving their sister, who was in a semi-fainting
+state, rushed on the Count, and both buffeted him in the face with
+their gloves, while drawing their swords.
+
+The Count turned fearfully pale at this cruel insult; he uttered a wild
+beast yell, and unsheathed.
+
+The valets, held in check by the two sailors, had not made a movement.
+
+The Duke rushed between the three men, who were ready for the assault.
+
+"Count," he said, coolly, to the younger of his sons, "leave to your
+brother the duty of chastising this man."
+
+"Thanks, father," the elder answered, as he fell on guard, while his
+younger brother lowered the point of his sword, and fell back a pace.
+
+Doņa Clara was lying motionless on the floor.
+
+At the first attack the two enemies engaged their swords up to their
+guard, and then, as if of common accord, each retreated a step.
+
+There was something sinister in the appearance of this inn room at the
+moment.
+
+This woman, who lay writhing on the floor, suffering from a horrible
+nervous crisis, and no one dreaming of succouring her.
+
+This old man, with frowning brow, and features contracted by pain,
+witnessing with apparent stoicism this duel between his elder son and
+his son-in-law, while his younger son was biting his lips with fury
+because he could not assist his brother; these sailors, with pistols at
+the breasts of the lackeys, who were palsied with terror; and in the
+centre of the room, scarce lighted by a few smoking candles, these two
+men, sword in hand, watching like two tigers the moment to slay each
+other.
+
+The combat was not long; too great a hatred animated the two
+adversaries for them to lose time in feeling each other's strength.
+The Duke's son, more impatient than the Count, made thrust on thrust,
+which the other had great difficulty in parrying; at length, the young
+man feeling himself too deeply engaged, tried to make a second backward
+step, but his foot slipped on the boards, and he involuntarily raised
+his sword; at the same moment the Count liberated his blade by a
+movement rapid as thought, and his sword entirely disappeared in his
+adversary's chest; then he leaped back to avoid the back thrust, and
+fell on guard again.
+
+But it was all over with the young man; he rolled his haggard eyes
+twice or thrice, stretched out his arms, while letting go his sword,
+and fell his whole length on the floor, without uttering a word.
+
+He was dead.
+
+"Assassin!" his brother screamed, as he rushed sword in hand on the
+Count.
+
+"Traitor!" the latter replied, as he parried the thrust, and sent the
+other's sword flying to the ceiling.
+
+"Stay, stay!" the Duke cried, as he rushed half mad with grief between
+the two men, who had seized each other round the waist, and had both
+drawn their daggers.
+
+But this tardy interference was useless; the Count, who was endowed
+with a far from common strength, had easily succeeded in freeing
+himself from the young man's grasp, and had thrown him on the ground,
+where he held him by placing his knee on his chest.
+
+All at once a mighty rumour of arms and horses was heard in the house,
+and the hurried steps of several men hurrying up the stairs became
+audible.
+
+"Ah!" the Duke exclaimed, with a ferocious joy, "I believe my vengeance
+is at hand, at last!"
+
+The Count, not deigning to reply to his enemy, turned to the sailors.
+
+"Be off, my lads!" he shouted in a voice of thunder.
+
+They hesitated.
+
+"He goes if you wish to save me," he added.
+
+"Boarders away!" Michael yelled, as he dragged away his comrade; and
+the two men seizing their musquetoons by the barrel, as if to use them
+as clubs in case of need, and to clear the way, rushed into the passage
+when they disappeared.
+
+The Count listened anxiously, he heard oaths and the sound of an
+obstinate struggle; then, at the expiration of a moment, a distant cry,
+that summons which sailors know so well, reached him.
+
+Then his face grew calmer, he returned his sword to its sheath and
+coolly awaited the newcomers, muttering to himself--
+
+"They have escaped, one chance is left me."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+THE ARREST.
+
+
+Almost at the same moment ten or twelve men burst into the room rather
+than entered it, the noise that continued outside let it be guessed
+that a great number of others was standing on the stairs and in the
+passages, ready, were it required, to come to the assistance of the
+others.
+
+All these men were armed, and it was easy to recognise them at once as
+guards of the King, or rather of His Eminence the Cardinal.
+
+Only two of them, with crafty looks and squinting eyes, dressed in
+black like ushers, had no visible weapons; these, in all probability
+were more to be feared than the others, for beneath their feline
+obsequiousness they doubtless concealed an implacable will to do evil.
+
+One of these two men held some papers in his right hand, he advanced
+two or three paces, cast a suspicious glance around him, and then took
+off his cap with a courteous bow.
+
+"In the King's name! gentleman," he said in a quick sharp voice.
+
+"What do you want?" the Count de Barmont asked, advancing resolutely
+towards him.
+
+At this movement, which he took for a hostile demonstration, the man
+in black recoiled with an ill-disguised start of terror, but feeling
+himself backed up by his acolytes, he at once resumed his coolness, and
+answered with a smile of evil augury--
+
+"Ah! Ah! The Count Ludovic de Barmont, I believe," he remarked with an
+ironical bow.
+
+"Yes, sir," the gentleman replied haughtily, "I am the Count de
+Barmont."
+
+"Captain in the navy," the man in black imperturbably added, "at
+present, commanding His Majesty's, frigate The Erigone."
+
+"As I told you, sir, I am the person you are in search of," the Count
+added.
+
+"It is really with you that I have to deal, my lord," he replied, as he
+drew himself up. "S'death, my good gentleman, you are not easy to catch
+up; I have been running after you for a week, and was almost despairing
+about having the honour of a meeting."
+
+All this was said with an obsequious air, a honeyed voice, and with a
+sweet smile, sufficient to exasperate a saint, and much more the person
+whom the strange man was addressing, and who was endowed with anything
+but a placable character.
+
+"By Heaven!" he exclaimed, stamping his foot passionately; "Are we to
+have much more of this?"
+
+"Patience, my good sir," he replied in the same placid tone; "patience,
+good Heaven, how quick you are!" then after taking a glance at the
+papers he held in his hand, "Since by your own confession you allow
+yourself to be really Count Ludovic de Barmont, captain commanding His
+Majesty's frigate Erigone, by virtue of the orders I bear, I arrest
+you in the King's name, for the crime of desertion; for having without
+authorization abandoned your vessel in a foreign country, that is to
+say, at the Port of Lisbon, in Portugal." Then raising his head and
+fixing his squinting eyes on the gentleman, he added, "Surrender your
+sword to me, my lord."
+
+M. de Barmont shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.
+
+"The sword of a gentleman of my race shall never be placed in the hands
+of a scoundrel of your stamp," he said, with contempt; and drawing
+his sword, he coldly broke the blade across his knee, and threw the
+fragments through the window panes, which they broke.
+
+Then he drew his pistols from his belt and cocked them.
+
+"Sir, sir!" the myrmidon exclaimed, recoiling in terror, "This is
+rebellion, remember, rebellion against the express orders of His
+Majesty and His Eminence the Cardinal Minister."
+
+The Count smiled disdainfully, and raising his pistols in the air,
+fired them, the bullets being buried in the ceiling; then clasping them
+by the barrel he threw them also out of the window; after which he
+crossed his hands on his chest, and said coolly--
+
+"Now do with me what you please."
+
+"Have you surrendered, my lord?" the fellow asked with ill-disguised
+alarm.
+
+"Yes, from this moment I am your prisoner."
+
+The man in black breathed again; although he was unarmed, the haughty
+gentleman still made him feel uncomfortable.
+
+"Still," the latter added, "allow me to say a couple of words to this
+lady;" and he pointed to Doņa Clara, who, waited upon by Dame Tiphaine,
+who had hurried in at the disturbance in spite of her husband's
+entreaties and orders, was beginning to regain her senses.
+
+"No, not a word, not a syllable," the Duke exclaimed, as he threw
+himself between his daughter and the Count; "remove the villain, remove
+him."
+
+But the bailiff, pleased with the facility the Count had displayed in
+surrendering to him, and not wishing to excite his anger, pleased above
+all at being able to show his authority without incurring resistance,
+bravely interposed.
+
+"Pray, sir, allow the gentleman to speak to the lady," he said, "and to
+unburden his heart."
+
+"But this man is an assassin," the Duke shouted violently, "before us
+is still lying the corpse of my unhappy son, killed by him."
+
+"I pity you, sir," the myrmidon said without being at all affected; "I
+cannot offer any remedy for that; and you must make application in the
+proper quarter. Still, if it can be of any comfort to you, be convinced
+that I shall make a careful note of the accusation you bring, and will
+recall it to mind at the right time and place. But you must be equally
+eager to get rid of us, as we are to get away from here: hence allow
+this gentleman to bid farewell to the lady quietly, and I am convinced
+it will not take long."
+
+The Duke darted a ferocious glance at the bailiff; but, not wishing to
+compromise himself with such a fellow, he did not answer, and fell back
+with a gloomy air.
+
+The Count had watched this altercation without displaying either
+impatience or anger; with pale forehead and frowning brow, he waited,
+doubtless ready to break into some terrible extremity if his request
+were not granted.
+
+The bailiff only required to take one look at him to guess what was
+passing in his heart; and, not feeling at all anxious for a fresh
+contest to begin, he had prudently manoeuvred to avoid it.
+
+"Come," he said, "speak, my worthy gentleman, no one will oppose it."
+
+"Thanks," the Count answered hoarsely and approached Doņa Clara, who
+watched him advance with an ardent gaze fixed on him.
+
+"Clara," he said to her in a firm and deeply marked voice, "do you love
+me?"
+
+She hesitated for a moment and bowed her head while heaving a profound
+sigh.
+
+"Do you love me?" he repeated.
+
+"I do love you, Ludovic," she replied in a faint and trembling voice.
+
+"Do you love me, as your husband before God and man, as the father of
+your child?"
+
+The young lady rose, her black eyes flashed fire, and stretching out
+her hands before her, she said in a voice choked by emotion--
+
+"In the presence of my father, who is ready to curse me, before the
+body of my dead brother and in the face of the men who are listening to
+me, I swear, Ludovic, that I love you as the father of my child, and
+that I shall remain faithful to you, whatever may happen."
+
+"Very good, Clara," he answered, "God has received your oath and will
+help you to keep it; remember that, whether dead or alive, you belong
+to me as I belong to you, and that no person on earth shall break the
+ties that unite us. Now farewell, and keep your courage."
+
+"Farewell!" she muttered, as she fell back in her chair and buried her
+face in her hands.
+
+"Let us go, gentlemen! Do with me what you please," the Count said as
+he turned to the exempt and the guards, who were involuntarily affected
+by this scene.
+
+The Duke bounded with a tiger leap on his daughter, and seizing
+her right arm with a frenzied gesture, he forced her to raise her
+tear-swollen face to his, and fixing on her a glance loaded with all
+the rage that swelled his heart, he said in a voice which fury rendered
+sibilant--
+
+"Daughter, prepare to marry within two days, the man I destine for you.
+As for your child, you will never see it again; it no longer exists for
+you."
+
+The young lady uttered a cry of despair and fell back deprived of her
+senses in the arms of Dame Tiphaine.
+
+The Count, who at this moment was leaving the room, stopped short and
+turned round to the Duke with his arm stretched out toward him:
+
+"Hangman," he shouted in a hoarse voice which chilled his auditors
+with horror, "I curse you, I swear on my honor as a gentlemen to take
+on you and yours so terrible a vengeance, that the memory of it shall
+remain eternal; and if I cannot reach you, you and the whole nation
+to which you belong shall be buried beneath the implacable weight of
+my hatred. Between us henceforth there is a war of savages and wild
+beasts, without truce or mercy; farewell."
+
+And leaving the proud Spaniard horrified by this fearful anathema, the
+gentleman quitted the room with a firm step, and taking a last loving
+glance at the woman he adored, from whom he was perhaps eternally
+separated.
+
+The passages, stairs, and inn garden were filled with armed men; it was
+evidently a miracle that the two sailors had succeeded in escaping and
+getting away safe and sound; this gave the Count, hope and he went down
+the stairs with an assured step, carefully watched by his escort who
+did not let him out of sight.
+
+The guards had been long before warned that they would have to do
+with a naval officer possessing an inordinate violence of character,
+prodigious vigour and indomitable courage; hence the resignation of the
+prisoner, which they believed to be assumed, only inspired them with
+very slight confidence, and they were continually on the defensive.
+
+When they came out into the garden the chief of the exempts noticed the
+coach, which was still standing at the door.
+
+"Why," he said with a grin and rubbing his hands, "here's the very
+thing we want. In our hurry to get here, we forgot to provide ourselves
+with a coach; be good enough to get in, my lord," he said as he opened
+the door.
+
+The Count got in without any further hesitation; and the exempts then
+addressed the driver who was sitting motionless on his box.
+
+"Come down, scamp," he said in a tone of authority; "I require the use
+of this coach for an affair of state. Give up your place to one of my
+men. Wideawake," he added, turning to a tall impudent looking fellow
+standing by his side, "get up on the box in that man's place--let us be
+off."
+
+The driver did not attempt to resist this peremptory order; he
+descended and his place was immediately taken by Wideawake; the exempt
+then entered the carriage, seated himself facing his prisoner, closed
+the door, and the steeds, aroused by a vigorous, lash, dashed forward
+dragging after them the heavy vehicle round which the twenty odd
+soldiers were collected.
+
+For a considerable period the coach rolled along without a word being
+exchanged between the prisoner and his guard.
+
+The Count was thinking, the exempt sleeping, or, to speak more
+correctly, pretending to sleep.
+
+In the month of March the nights are beginning to shorten; daylight
+soon appeared, and broad white stripes were beginning to cross the sky.
+
+The Count, who up to this moment had remained motionless, gave a slight
+start.
+
+"Are you suffering, my lord?" the exempt inquired. This question was
+addressed to him with an intonation so different from that hitherto
+employed by the man who had made him prisoner; there was in the sound
+of his voice an accent so really gentle and sympathizing, that the
+Count involuntarily started, and took a fixed look at his singular
+companion: but so far as he could see by the faint light of coming
+dawn, the man in front of him still had the same crafty face and the
+same ironical smile stereotyped on his lips. The Count found himself
+in error, and throwing himself back, merely uttered one word, "No," in
+a tone intended to break off any attempt at conversation between his
+guardian and himself.
+
+But the former was probably in a humour for talking, for he would
+not be checked; and pretending not to remark the manner in which his
+advances had been received, he continued--
+
+"The nights are still chill, the breeze enters this coach on all sides,
+and I feared lest the cold had struck you."
+
+"I am habituated to suffer heat and cold," the Count answered;
+"besides, it is probable that if I have not yet made my apprenticeship,
+I am about to undergo one which will accustom me to endure everything
+without complaining."
+
+"Who knows, my lord?" the exempt said, with a shake of the head.
+
+"What?" the other objected, "Am I not condemned to a lengthened
+captivity in a fortress?"
+
+"Yes, according to the terms of the order, which it is my duty to carry
+out."
+
+There was a momentary silence. The Count gazed absently at the country
+which the first beams of day were beginning to illumine. At length he
+turned to the exempt.
+
+"May I ask whither you are taking me?" he said.
+
+"I see no objection to your doing so."
+
+"And you will answer my question?"
+
+"Why not? There is nothing to prevent it."
+
+"Then we are going?"
+
+"To the isles of St. Marguerite, my lord."
+
+The Count trembled inwardly. The islands of Lerins, or Sainte
+Marguerite, enjoyed at that time, even, a reputation almost as terrible
+as the one they acquired at a later date, when they served as a prison
+to the mysterious iron mask, whom it was forbidden to take even a
+glance at under penalty of death.
+
+The exempt looked at him fixedly without speaking.
+
+It was the Count who again resumed the conversation.
+
+"Where are we now?" he asked.
+
+The exempt bent out of the window, and then resumed his seat.
+
+"We are just arriving at Corbeil, where we shall change horses."
+
+"Ah!" said the Count.
+
+"If you wish to rest, I can give orders for an hour's stay. Perhaps you
+feel a want of some refreshment?"
+
+This singular man was gradually acquiring in the Count's eyes all the
+interest of an enigma.
+
+"Very good," he said.
+
+Without replying the exempt let down the window.
+
+"Wideawake!" he shouted.
+
+"What is the matter?" the latter asked.
+
+"Pull up at the Golden Lion."
+
+"All right."
+
+Ten minutes later the coach halted in the Rue St. Spire, in front of a
+door over which creaked a sign representing an enormous gilt cat, with
+one of its paws on a ball. They had arrived.
+
+The exempt got out, followed by the Count, and both entered the inn:
+one portion of the escort remained in the saddle in the street, while
+the others dismounted and installed themselves in the common room.
+
+The Count had mechanically followed the exempt, and on reaching the
+room, seated himself in a chair by the fire, in a first floor decently
+furnished room. He was too busy with his own thoughts to attach any
+great attention to what was going on around him.
+
+When the landlord had left them alone, the exempt bolted the door
+inside, and then placed himself in front of his prisoner.
+
+"Now," he said, "let us speak frankly, my lord."
+
+The latter, astonished at this sudden address, quickly raised his head.
+
+"We have no time to lose in coming to an understanding, sir; so please
+to listen without interrupting me," the exempt continued. "I am
+Franįois Bouillot, the younger brother of your foster father. Do you
+recognise me?"
+
+"No," the Count replied, after examining him attentively for a moment.
+
+"That does not surprise me, for you were only eight years old the last
+time I had the honor of seeing you at Barmont Castle: but that is of no
+consequence; I am devoted to you, and wish to save you."
+
+"What assures me that you are really Franįois Bouillot, the brother of
+my foster father, and that you are not attempting to deceive me?" the
+Count answered, in a suspicious accent.
+
+The exempt felt in his pocket, pulled out several papers, which he
+unfolded, and presented them open to the Count.
+
+The latter looked at them mechanically: they consisted of a baptismal
+certificate, a commission, and several letters proving his identity.
+The Count handed him the letters back.
+
+"How is it that you should have been the man to arrest me, and arrived
+so opportunely to aid me?" he asked.
+
+"In a very simple way, my lord: your order of arrest was obtained from
+the Cardinal Minister by the Dutch Embassy. I was present when M. de
+Laffemas, a familiar of his Eminence, who is kind to me, left the
+Palais Cardinal order in hand: I was there, and he chose me. Still, as
+I was able to decline, I should have done so, had I not seen your name
+on the paper, and remembered the kindness your family had shown to me
+and my brother. Taking advantage of the opportunity my profession of
+exempt offered me, I resolved to repay you what your friends have done
+for mine, by attempting to save you."
+
+"That does not seem to me very easy, my poor friend."
+
+"More so than you may fancy, my lord: I will leave here one-half our
+escort, and then only ten will remain with us."
+
+"Hum! That is a very decent number," the Count replied, involuntarily
+interested.
+
+"They would be too many if there were not among the ten men seven of
+whom I am certain, which reduces the number of those we have to fear
+to three. I have been running after you for a long time, my lord," he
+added, with a laugh, "and all my precautions are taken: through some
+excuse, easy to be found, we will pass through Toulon, and on arriving
+there, we will stop for an hour or two at a hostelry I know. You will
+disguise yourself as a mendicant monk, and leave the inn unnoticed. I
+will take care to get rid of the guards I am not certain of. You will
+proceed to the port furnished with papers I will hand you; you will go
+on board a charming chasse-marée, called the _Seamew_, which I have
+freighted on your account, and which is waiting for you. The master
+will recognise you by a password I will tell you, and you will be at
+liberty to go whither-soever you please. Is not this plan extremely
+simple, my lord?" he asked, rubbing his hands joyously, "And have I not
+foreseen everything?"
+
+"No, my friend," the Count answered with emotion, as he offered him his
+hand; "there is one more thing you have not foreseen."
+
+"What is that, my lord?" he asked, in surprise.
+
+"That I do not wish to fly," the young man answered, with a melancholy
+shake of the head.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE ISLE OF SAINTE MARGUERITE.
+
+
+At this answer, which he was so far from anticipating, the exempt gave
+a start of surprise, and looked at the Count as if he had not exactly
+understood him.
+
+The gentleman smiled gently.
+
+"That surprises you, does it not?" he said.
+
+"I confess it, my lord," the other stammered, with embarrassment.
+
+The Count went on:
+
+"Yes," he said, "I can understand your surprise at my refusal to accept
+your generous proposition. It is not often you find a prisoner to whom
+liberty is offered, and who insists on remaining a captive. I owe you
+an explanation of this extraordinary conduct; this explanation I will
+give you at once, so that you may no longer press me, but leave me to
+act as I think proper."
+
+"I am only the most humble, of your servants, my lord Count. You
+doubtless know better than I what your conduct should be under the
+circumstances, you have therefore no occasion to explain it to me."
+
+"It is precisely because you are an old servant of my family, Franįois
+Bouillot, and because you are giving me at this moment a proof of
+unbounded devotion, that I believe myself obliged to tell you the
+motives for this refusal, which has so many reasons to surprise you.
+Listen to me, then."
+
+"As you insist, my lord, I obey you."
+
+"Very good, take a chair, and place yourself here by my side, as it is
+unnecessary for others beside yourself to hear what I am going to say."
+
+The exempt took a stool and seated himself by his master's side,
+exactly as the latter had ordered, while still keeping up a respectful
+distance between himself and the gentleman.
+
+"In the first place," the Count resumed, "be thoroughly convinced that
+if I refuse your offer, it is not through any motive of a personal
+nature as regards yourself. I have full confidence in you, for nearly
+200 years your family has been attached to mine, and we have ever had
+reason to praise their devotion to our interest. This important point
+being settled, I will go on. I will suppose for a moment that the
+plan you have formed is successful, a plan which I will not discuss,
+although it appears to me very difficult to execute, and the slightest
+accident might, at the last moment, compromise its issue. What will
+happen? Forced to fly without resources, without friends, I should not
+only be unable to take the revenge I meditate upon my enemies, but
+surrendered, so to speak, to their mercy, I should speedily fall into
+their hands again, and thus become the laughing stock of those whom I
+hate. I should be dishonoured; they will despise me, and I shall have
+but one way of escape from a life henceforth rendered useless, as all
+my plans would be overthrown, and that is blowing out my brains."
+
+"Oh! my lord!" Bouillot exclaimed, clasping his hands.
+
+"I do not wish to fall," the Count continued imperturbably, "in the
+terrible struggle which has this day begun between my enemies and
+myself. I have taken an oath, and that oath I will keep, regardless
+of the consequences. I am young, hardly twenty-five years of age; up
+to the present, life has only been one long joy for me, and I have
+succeeded in everything, plans of ambition, fortune and love. Today
+misfortune has come to lay its hand on me, and it is welcome; for the
+man who has not suffered is not a perfect man; grief purifies the mind
+and tempers the heart. Solitude is a good councillor; it makes a man
+comprehend the nothingness of small things, expands the ideas, and
+prepares grand conceptions. I require to steel myself through sorrow,
+in order to be able one day to repay my enemies a hundredfold all
+that I have suffered at their hands. It is by thinking over my broken
+career and my ruined future, that I shall find the necessary strength
+to accomplish my vengeance. When my heart is dead to every other
+feeling but that of the hatred which will entirely occupy it, I shall
+be able pitilessly to trample underfoot all those who today laugh at
+me and believe they have crushed me, because they have hurled me down;
+and then I shall be really a man, and woe to those who try to measure
+their strength with mine. You tremble at what I am saying to you at
+this moment, my old servant," he added more gently, "what would it be
+were you able to read in my heart all the hatred, auger, and rage it
+contains against those who have mercilessly ground me beneath their
+heel, and who have eternally deprived me of happiness, in order to
+satisfy the paltry calculations of a narrow and criminal ambition?"
+
+"Oh, my lord Count! Permit an old servant of your family, a man who is
+entirely devoted to you, to implore you to resign these fearful schemes
+of vengeance. Alas! You will be the first victim of your hatred."
+
+"Have you forgotten, Bouillot," the Count replied ironically, "what is
+said in our country, about the members of the family to which I have
+the honor of belonging?"
+
+"Yes, yes, my lord," he said with a melancholy shake of the head; "I
+remember it, and will repeat it if you wish."
+
+"Do so."
+
+"Well, my lord, the distich is as follows--"
+
+"'The Counts of Barmont Senectaire, Demon-hate and heart of stone.'"
+
+The Count smiled.
+
+"Well do you fancy that I have degenerated from my ancestors?"
+
+"I suppose nothing, sir, Heaven forbid!" he answered humbly, "I only
+see with terror that you are preparing a hideous future for yourself."
+
+"Be it so! I accept it in all its rigor, if God will permit me to
+accomplish my oath."
+
+"Alas! My lord, you know that man proposes; you are at this moment a
+prisoner of the Cardinal; reflect, I implore you, who knows whether
+you will ever leave the prison to which I am conducting you? Consent to
+be free."
+
+"No; cease your entreaties! The Cardinal is not immortal. If not
+before, my liberty will be restored me on his death, which cannot
+be long deferred, I hope. And now carefully bear this in mind, my
+resolution is so fixed, that if in spite of my orders you abandon me
+here, at the inn where we now are, the first use I should make of the
+liberty you have given me back, would be to go at once and surrender
+myself into the hands of his Eminence; you understand me thoroughly, I
+suppose?"
+
+The old servant bowed his head without answering, and two tears slowly
+ran down his cheeks.
+
+This dumb grief, so true and so touching, affected the Count more than
+he would have supposed; he rose, took the poor fellow's hand and shook
+it several times.
+
+"Let us say no more about this, Bouillot," he remarked to him
+affectionately, "although I will not profit by it, your devotion has
+deeply affected me, and I will ever feel eternally grateful to you for
+it. Come, my old friend, let us not grow foolish; we are men and not
+childish poltroons, confound it."
+
+"Well, no matter, my lord, I do not consider myself beaten," the exempt
+replied, as he threw himself into the arms open to receive him; "you
+cannot prevent me from watching over you, whether near or afar."
+
+"That I do not oppose, my friend," the Count replied with a laugh; "do
+as you please; besides," he added seriously, "I confess that I shall
+not be sorry when I am sequestered from the world to know what is going
+on, and to be kept informed, of passing events; some unforeseen fact
+might occur which would modify my intentions and make me desire the
+recovery of my liberty."
+
+"Oh, be sure of that, my lord," he exclaimed, pleased at this quasi
+victory and conditional promise, "I will arrange so that you shall not
+be at a loss for news; I have not served his Eminence for six years
+for nothing; the Cardinal is a good master, I have profited by his
+teaching, and know several tricks; you shall see me at work."
+
+"Well, that is agreed, and we understand each other now. I think it
+would be wise to breakfast before continuing our journey, for I feel an
+appetite that greatly requires appeasing."
+
+"I will give the landlord orders to serve you at once, my lord."
+
+"You will breakfast with me, Bouillot," he said as he gave him a
+friendly tap on the shoulder; "and I hope it will be always so, until
+our arrival at the Isle of St. Marguerite."
+
+"It is certainly a great honour for me, sir, but--"
+
+"I expect it; besides are you not almost a member of my family?"
+
+Franįois Bouillot bowed and left the room; after ordering a copious
+breakfast, he commanded one part of the escort back to Paris; then
+he returned to the room, followed by the landlord, who, in a second,
+covered the table with all that was wanted to make a good meal, and
+withdrew discreetly, leaving his guests to attack the dishes placed
+before them.
+
+The journey was continued without any incident worthy of note.
+
+The prisoner's conversation with his keeper had been decisive; the
+latter was too well acquainted with the character of the man with whom
+he had to deal to attempt to revert to a subject which had been so
+distinctly disposed of on the first occasion.
+
+At the period when our history takes place, France was not as now
+intersected by magnificent roads, and the shortest journey demanded
+an enormous expenditure of time; the coaches, heavy vehicles badly
+built and worse horsed, had great difficulty in resisting the numerous
+joltings and the ruts in which they were for the greater portion of
+the time buried up to the axletree, and hence, in spite of the speed
+employed, seventeen days elapsed ere the prisoner and his escort
+arrived at Toulon.
+
+This town was even at that early period one of the principal military
+ports of France, and the Count felt an indescribable pang at heart when
+he entered it.
+
+It was in this town that his naval career had begun, here for the first
+time he had set foot aboard a vessel with the rank of midshipman, and
+had undergone the preparatory trials of that rude naval profession, in
+which, in spite of his youth, he soon attained a great reputation and
+almost celebrity.
+
+The coach stopped in the Haymarket, in front of the "Cross of Malta,"
+probably the oldest inn in France, for it is still in existence,
+although it has undergone many indispensable changes both internally
+and externally.
+
+So soon as he had installed his prisoner comfortably in the Inn,
+Franįois Bouillot went out.
+
+If he placed a sentry before the Count's door, it was rather in
+obedience to his duty, than through any fear of escape, for he had not
+even taken the trouble to lock the door, so convinced was he beforehand
+that unfortunately his prisoner would not attempt to pass out of it.
+
+He remained away for about two hours.
+
+"You have been absent a long time," the Count remarked on his return.
+
+"I had some important business to settle," he replied.
+
+The Count, without adding a word, resumed his walk up and down the room
+which Bouillot's return had interrupted.
+
+There was a momentary silence, Bouillot was evidently embarrassed,
+he went about the room, pretending to arrange sundry articles of
+furniture, and disarranging everything; at last seeing that the Count
+obstinately remained silent and would not perceive that he was in the
+room, he placed himself in front of him so as to bar his passage, and
+looked at him intently as he whispered with a stress on the words.
+
+"You do not ask where I have been."
+
+"What is the use?" the Count replied carelessly; "About your own
+business, of course."
+
+"No, my lord, about yours."
+
+"Ah!" he said.
+
+"Yes, the _Seamew_ awaits you."
+
+The Count smiled and slightly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Ah, ah, you are still thinking of that; I believed, my dear Bouillot,
+that it was arranged between us that we should not return to this
+subject. That was the reason, then, that you lengthened our journey, by
+making us pass through Toulon, at which I felt surprised. I could not
+account for the strange itinerary you were following."
+
+"My lord," he muttered, clasping his hands imploringly.
+
+"Come, you are mad, my dear Bouillot, you ought to know by this time,
+though, that when I have formed a resolution, good or bad, I never
+alter it; so no more of this, I beg, it would be quite useless. I
+pledge you my word as a gentleman."
+
+The old servant uttered a groan that resembled a death rattle.
+
+"Your will be done, my lord," he stammered. "When do we start for
+Antibes?"
+
+"At once, if you wish it."
+
+"Very good, the sooner the better."
+
+After bowing, the exempt left the room to make all preparations for
+departure.
+
+As we see, the parts were completely introverted, it was the prisoner
+who gave orders to his keeper.
+
+One hour later, in fact, the Count quitted Toulon. All along the road
+the two men, constantly companions, and eating and drinking together,
+conversed about indifferent matters. Bouillot had at last recognized
+the fact that it was useless to make any further effort to induce the
+Count to escape; still he had not given up his scheme, but merely
+deferred it till a more distant period, reckoning as an ally the
+annoyance of a prolonged detention, and an inactive and useless life
+upon an organization so impetuous as that of the prisoner.
+
+So soon as he arrived at Antibes, by the express command of the Count,
+who seemed to take a certain pleasure in tormenting him, he set out in
+search of some boat to carry them across to Sainte Marguerite.
+
+His search was neither long nor difficult; as bearer of a Cardinal's
+order, he laid an embargo on the first fishing boat he came across,
+and embarked aboard it with all his people.
+
+On leaving the mainland, the Count turned, and a smile of peculiar
+meaning played round his lips.
+
+Bouillot, deceived by this smile, whose secret intention he did not
+penetrate, bent down to the Count's ear.
+
+"If you like, there is still time," he whispered.
+
+The Count looked at him, shrugged his shoulders, and without replying,
+sat down in the stern of the boat.
+
+"Push off," Bouillot then shouted to the master.
+
+The latter seized his boathook, and they were soon under weigh.
+
+The Lerins islands form a group composed of several rocks, and
+two islands surrounded by shoals; the first known as Isle Sainte
+Marguerite, the second as Saint Honorat.
+
+At the period of our narration only the first was fortified; the other,
+inhabited by a few fishermen, merely contained the still considerable
+ruins of the monastery founded by Saint Honorat circa the year 400.
+
+The Sainte Marguerite island was uninhabited, flat, and only offering
+along its entire coast, one very unsafe creek for vessels. Although
+it is extremely fertile, and pomegranates, orange and fig trees, grow
+there in the open air, no one had thought of taking up his abode there,
+and we are not aware whether a change has since taken place.
+
+A very important fortress, which, at a later date, attained a
+melancholy reputation as a state prison, was erected on the island, the
+greater portion of which it occupied.
+
+This fort was composed of three towers, connected together by terraces,
+which time had covered with a yellowish moss, while a wide deep moat
+surrounded the walls.
+
+A few years prior to the beginning of our story, in 1635, the Spaniards
+had seized it by surprise.
+
+The Cardinal, in order to prevent the repetition of such a calamity,
+had judged it advisable to protect the fort from a _coup de main_, by
+placing there a garrison of fifty picked soldiers, commanded by a major
+performing the duties of governor. He was an old officer of fortune,
+whom this post served as a retreat, and who, far from the cares of the
+world, led a perfect canonical life, thanks to a tacit understanding
+with the smugglers, who alone cast anchor in these parts.
+
+The officer who commanded the fort at this moment was an old gentleman,
+tall, thin, and wizened, with harsh features, who had had a leg and
+arm cut off. His name was Monsieur de l'Oursičre; he was constantly
+scolding and abusing his subordinates, and the day when he left the
+Crown regiment, in which he held the rank of major, was kept as a
+holiday by the whole regiment, officers and men; so cordially was the
+worthy man detested.
+
+Cardinal de Richelieu was a good judge of men; in selecting Major de
+l'Oursičre to make him governor of Sainte Marguerite, and metamorphose
+him into a gaoler, he had found the exact post which suited his
+quarrelsome temper, and his cruel instincts.
+
+It was on this amiable personage that the Count de Barmont would
+have to be dependant for doubtless a considerable period; for, if
+the Cardinal Minister easily shut the gate of a state prison on a
+gentleman, to make up for it, he was never in a hurry to open it again,
+and a prisoner, unless something extraordinary occurred, was almost
+safe to die forgotten in his dungeon, except when his Eminence had a
+whim to have his head cut off in broad daylight.
+
+After a number of countersigns had been exchanged with a profuseness
+of caution which bore witness to the good guard and strict discipline
+maintained by the governor, the prisoner and his escort were at length
+introduced into the fortress, and admitted to the Major's presence.
+
+The Major was just finishing his breakfast, when a Cardinal's messenger
+was announced to him: he buttoned his uniform, put on his sword and
+hat, and ordered the messenger to be shown in.
+
+Franįois Bouillot entered, followed by the Count, bowed, and presented
+the order of which he was the bearer.
+
+The governor took it, and read it through; then he turned to the Count,
+who was standing motionless a few paces in the rear, made him a slight
+bow, and addressed him in a dry voice, and with a rough accent.
+
+"Your servant, sir," he said to him: "are you the Count de Barmont,
+whose name is written on this paper?"
+
+"Yes, sir," the Count answered, bowing in his turn.
+
+"I am sorry, sir, truly sorry," the Major resumed; "but I have strict
+orders with reference to you, and a soldier only knows his duty; still,
+believe me, sir, hum, hum, that I shall try to reconcile my natural
+humanity with the rigour that is recommended to me, hum, hum, I know
+how gentlemen ought to behave to each other, sir; be assured of that."
+
+And the governor, doubtless satisfied at the speech he had just
+uttered, smiled, and drew himself gracefully up.
+
+The Count bowed, but made no answer.
+
+"You shall be conducted to your apartment at once, sir," the Major went
+on; "hum, hum! I wish it was handsomer, but I did not expect you; hum,
+hum, and you know how things are--hum, hum, we will manage to lodge
+you more comfortably hereafter; la Berloque," he added, turning to a
+soldier standing near the door, "conduct this gentleman, hum, hum, to
+room No. 8, in the second turret; hum, hum, I believe it is the most
+habitable one; your servant, sir, your servant, hum, hum!"
+
+And after having thus unceremoniously dismissed the Count, the Major
+went into another room.
+
+M. de Barmont, accompanied by Bouillot and the guards, who had brought
+him, followed the soldier.
+
+The latter led them through several passages, and up various stairs,
+and then stopped before a door, garnished with formidable bolts.
+
+"It is here," he said.
+
+The Count then turned to Bouillot, and affectionately offered him his
+hand.
+
+"Farewell, my old friend," he said to him in a gentle but firm voice,
+while a vague smile played round his lips.
+
+"Farewell, till we meet again," Bouillot said, with a stress on the
+words. Then he took leave of him, and withdrew, with his eyes full of
+tears.
+
+The door closed with a mournful sound on the prisoner.
+
+"Oh!" the old servant muttered, as he pensively went down the turret
+stairs, "Woe to those who venture to oppose the Count, if ever he
+leaves his prison again! And he shall do so, I swear it, even if I must
+risk my life in securing his escape."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+A BACKWARD GLANCE.
+
+
+The family of the Count de Barmont Senectaire was one of the most
+ancient and noble in Languedoc; their origin went back to an antiquity
+so remote, that we may declare without fear of contradiction that it
+was lost in the mist of ages.
+
+A Barmont Senectaire fought at Bouvines by the side of Philip Augustus.
+
+The chronicle of Joinville mentions a Barmont Senectaire, knight
+banneret, who died of the plague at Tunis, in 1270, during the second
+crusade of King Louis IX.
+
+Francis I. on the evening of the battle of Marignano, gave the rank of
+Count on the battlefield itself to Euguerrand de Barmont Senectaire,
+captain of one hundred men at arms, to reward him for his grand conduct
+and the sturdy blows he had seen him deal during the whole period of
+that combat of giants.
+
+Few noble families have such splendid title deeds among their archives.
+
+The Counts de Barmont were always military nobles, and they gave France
+several celebrated generals.
+
+But in the course of time, the power and fortune of this family
+gradually diminished: during the reign of Henri III. it was reduced to
+a condition bordering on poverty. Still, justly proud of a stainless
+past, they continued to carry their heads high in the province, and if
+the Count de Barmont endured hard privations in order to support his
+name worthily, nothing of this was visible externally, and everybody
+was ignorant of the fact.
+
+The Count had attached himself to the fortunes of the King of Navarre
+as much through the hope of regaining a position through the war,
+as through admiration of this prince, whose genius he had probably
+divined. A brave soldier, but young, impetuous, and handsome, the
+Count had several affairs of gallantry. One among others with a lady
+of the Town of Cahors, affianced to a very rich Spanish noble, whom he
+succeeded in carrying off on the very day before that appointed for the
+marriage. The Spaniard, who was very strict in matters affecting his
+honour, considered this joke in bad taste, and demanded satisfaction
+of the Count; the latter gave him two sword thrusts, and left him
+dead on the ground. This affair attracted great attention, and gained
+the Count much honor among people of refinement; but the Spaniard,
+contrary to expectation, recovered from his wounds. The two gentlemen
+fought again, and this time the Count so ill treated his adversary
+that the latter was constrained to give up all thoughts of a new
+meeting. This adventure disgusted the Count with gallantry, not that he
+personally feared the results of the hatred which the Duke of Peņaflor
+had sworn against him, for he never heard of him again, but because
+his conscience reproached him with having, for the satisfaction of a
+caprice which passed away so soon as it was satisfied, destroyed the
+happiness of an honourable man, and he felt remorse for his conduct in
+the affair.
+
+After bravely fighting by the side of the King during all his wars,
+the Count finally retired to his estates, about the year 1610, after
+the death of that Prince, disgusted with the Court, and feeling the
+necessity of repose after such an amount of fatigue.
+
+Here, four or five years later, wearied with the solitude in which
+he lived, and, perhaps, in the hope of expelling from his mind a
+troublesome recollection, which, in spite of the time that had elapsed,
+did not cease to torture him, the Count resolved to marry, and selected
+for his wife a young lady belonging to one of the best families in
+the province--charming and gentle, but as poor as himself; this
+circumstance was far from bringing ease into the family, whose position
+daily became more difficult.
+
+The union, however, was a happy one; in 1616 the Countess was delivered
+of a son, who at once became the joy of the poor household.
+
+This son was Count Ludovic, whose story we have undertaken to tell.
+
+In spite of his fondness for the boy, the Count, however, brought him
+up strictly, wishing to make of him a rude, brave, and loyal gentleman,
+like himself.
+
+Young Ludovic felt at an early hour, on discovering what misery was
+concealed behind the apparent splendour of his family, the necessity
+of creating for himself an independent position, which would allow him
+not only to be no longer a burden to parents whom he loved, and who
+sacrificed to him the greater portion of their income, but to restore
+also the eclipsed lustre of the name he bore.
+
+Contrary to the custom followed by his ancestors, who had all served
+the king or his armies, his tastes led him to the navy.
+
+Owing to the assiduous care of an old and worthy priest, who had
+become his tutor through attachment to his family, he had received a
+solid education, by which he had profited; accounts of voyages, which
+constituted his principal reading, inflamed his imagination; all his
+thoughts were turned to America, where, according to the statements of
+sailors, gold abounded, and he had but one desire--to land himself
+in this mysterious country, and take his part of the rich crop which
+everybody garnered there.
+
+His father, and his mother even more, for a long time resisted his
+entreaties. The old man, who had fought during so many years, could not
+understand why his son should not do the same, or prefer the navy to a
+commission in the army. The Countess, in her heart, did not wish to see
+her son either soldier or sailor, for both professions terrified her;
+she feared for her son the unknown perils of distant excursions, and
+her tenderness was alarmed by the thought of what might be an eternal
+separation.
+
+Still, something must be done, and as the young man obstinately adhered
+to his resolution, his parents were compelled to yield and consent to
+what he desired, whatever might be the future consequences of this
+determination.
+
+The Count still had some old friends at Court, among them being the
+Duke de Bellegarde, who stood on terms of great intimacy with King
+Louis XIII., surnamed the "_Just_" during his lifetime, because he was
+born under the sign of Libra.
+
+Monsieur de Barmont had also been connected at an earlier date with
+the Duke d'Epernon, created Admiral of France in 1587; but he had a
+repugnance in applying to him, owing to the rumours that were spread
+at the time of the assassination of Henri IV. Still, in a case so
+urgent as the present one, the Count comprehended that for the sake of
+his son he must silence his private feelings, and at the same time as
+he addressed a letter to the Duke de Bellegarde, he sent another to
+Epernon, who at this period was Governor of Guyenne.
+
+The double answer the Count expected was not long deferred; M. de
+Barmont's two old friends had not forgotten him, and hastened to employ
+their credit on his behalf.
+
+The Duke d'Epernon especially, better situated through his title of
+Admiral to be useful to the young man, wrote that he would gladly
+undertake the duty of pushing him on in the world.
+
+This took place at the beginning of 1631, when Ludovic de Barmont had
+reached his sixteenth year.
+
+Being very tall, with a proud and haughty air, and endowed with rare
+vigour and great agility, the young man seemed older than he in reality
+was. It was with the liveliest joy that he learned how his wishes
+had been fulfilled, and that nothing prevented him from embracing a
+maritime career.
+
+The Duke d'Epernon's letter requested the Count de Barmont to send his
+son as speedily as possible to Bordeaux, so that he might at once place
+him aboard a man-of-war, to commence his apprenticeship.
+
+Two days after the receipt of this letter the young man tore himself
+with difficulty from the embraces of his mother, bade his father a
+respectful farewell, and took the road to Bordeaux, mounted on a good
+horse, and followed by a confidential valet.
+
+The navy had for a long time been neglected in France; and left during
+the middle ages in the hands of private persons, as the government,
+following the example of the other continental powers, did not deign
+to try and secure a respectable position on the seas, much less a
+supremacy; thus we see during the reign of Francis I., who was,
+however, one of the warlike Kings of France, Ango, a ship broker of
+Dieppe, from whom the Portuguese had taken a vessel during a profound
+peace, authorized by the King, who was unable to procure him justice,
+to equip a fleet at his own expense. With this fleet Ango, we may
+remark incidentally, blockaded the port of Lisbon, and did not cease
+hostilities until he had forced the Portuguese to send to France
+ambassadors humbly to ask peace of the King.
+
+The discovery of the New World, however, and the no less important one
+of the Cape of Good Hope, by giving navigation a greater activity and
+a more extended sphere, at the same time as they widened the limits of
+commerce, caused the necessity to be felt of creating a navy, intended
+to protect merchant vessels against the attacks of corsairs.
+
+It was not till the reign of Louis XIII. that the idea of creating a
+navy began to be carried into execution. Cardinal de Richelieu, whose
+vast genius embraced everything, and whom the English fleets had
+caused several times to tremble during the long and wearying siege of
+Rochelle, passed several decrees relating to the navy, and founded a
+school of navigation, intended to educate those young gentlemen who
+desired to serve the King aboard his vessels.
+
+It is to this great minister, then, that France is indebted for the
+first thought of a navy; this navy was destined to contend against
+the Spanish and Dutch fleets, and during the reign of Louis XIV., to
+acquire so great an importance, and momentarily hold in check the power
+of England.
+
+It was this school of navigation created by Richelieu that the Viscount
+de Barmont entered, thanks to the influence of the Duke d'Epernon.
+
+The old gentleman strictly kept the pledge he had given his former
+comrade in arms; he did not cease to protect the young man, which,
+however, was an easy task, for the latter displayed an extraordinary
+aptitude, and a talent very rare at that date in the profession he had
+embraced.
+
+Hence, in 1641, he was already a captain in the navy, and had the
+command of a twenty-six gun frigate.
+
+Unfortunately, neither the old Count de Barmont nor his wife was able
+to enjoy the success of their son or the new era opening for their
+house; they both died a few days apart from each other, leaving the
+young man an orphan at the age of two-and-twenty.
+
+As a pious son, Ludovic, who really loved his parents, lamented and
+regretted them, especially his mother, who had always been so kind and
+tender to him; but, as he had been accustomed for so many years to live
+alone during his long voyages, and only to trust to himself, he did not
+feel the loss so painfully as he would have done had he never left the
+paternal roof.
+
+Henceforth the sole representative of his house, he regarded life more
+seriously than he had hitherto done, and redoubled his efforts to
+restore to his name its almost eclipsed lustre, which, thanks to his
+exertions, was beginning to shine again with renewed brilliancy.
+
+The Duke d'Epernon still lived, but a forgotten relic of an almost
+entirely departed generation--a sickly octogenarian, who had quarrelled
+long ago with Cardinal de Richelieu, his influence was null, and he
+could do nothing for the man he had so warmly protected a few years
+previously.
+
+But the Count did not allow this to prey on his mind; the naval
+service was not envied by the nobility, good officers were rare, and
+he believed that if he cautiously avoided mixing himself up in any
+political intrigue, he might have a brilliant career.
+
+An accident, impossible to foresee, was fated to destroy all his
+ambitious plans, and ruin his career forever.
+
+This is how the affair occurred:--The Count de Barmont, at the time
+commanding the Erigone, twenty-six gun frigate, after a lengthened
+cruise in the Algerian waters to protect French merchant vessels
+against the Barbary pirates, steered for the states of Gibraltar, in
+order to reach the Atlantic, and return to Brest, whither he had orders
+to proceed at the end of his cruise; but just as he was about to pass
+through the Straits, he was caught by a squall, and after extraordinary
+efforts to continue his course, which almost cast him on to the coast
+of Africa, owing to the strength of the wind and the rough, chopping
+sea, he was obliged to stand off and on for several hours, and finally
+take refuge in the port of Algeciras, which was to windward of him, on
+the Spanish coast.
+
+So soon as he had anchored, and made all snug, the commandant, who
+knew from experience that two or three days would elapse ere the wind
+veered, and allowed him to pass the Straits, ordered his boat, and went
+ashore.
+
+Although the town of Algeciras is very old, it is very small, badly
+built, and scantily populated; at this period, more especially, it
+only formed, as it were, a poor market town. It was not till after the
+English had seized Gibraltar, situated on the other side of the bay,
+that the Spaniards comprehended the importance of Algeciras to them,
+and have converted it into a regular port.
+
+The Captain had no other motive for landing at Algeciras, than the
+restlessness natural to sailors, which impels them to leave their
+vessel as soon as they have cast anchor.
+
+Commercial relations were not established at that time, as they now
+are. The government had not yet fallen into the custom of sending to
+foreign ports residents ordered to watch over their countrymen, and
+protect their transactions--in a word, consulates had not yet been
+created: only those ships of war, which accident might lead to any
+port, now and then undertook to procure justice for those of their
+countrymen, whose interests had been encroached on.
+
+After landing, and giving orders to his coxswain to come and fetch
+him at sunset, the Captain, merely followed by a sailor, of the name
+of Michael, to whom he was greatly attached, and who accompanied him
+everywhere, turned into the winding streets of Algeciras, curiously
+examining everything that offered itself to view.
+
+This Michael, to whom we shall have several occasions to refer, was a
+tall fellow, with an intelligent face, about thirty years of age, and
+who had vowed an eternal devotion to his captain since the day when the
+latter had risked his life in saving his, by jumping into a boat during
+a terrible storm four years before, to help him when he had fallen into
+the sea while going up the shrouds to ease the mainsail.
+
+Since that day Michael had never left the Count, and had always
+contrived to sail with him. Born in the vicinity of Pau, the country of
+Henri IV., he was like the king, his fellow countryman, gay, mocking,
+and even sceptical. An excellent sailor, endowed with tried bravery,
+and far from ordinary vigour, Michael offered in his person the
+perfect type of the Béarnaise Basque, a strong and rough, though loyal
+and faithful race.
+
+Only one individual shared in Michael's heart the unbounded friendship
+he felt for his chief. This privileged being was a Breton sailor,
+gloomy and taciturn, who formed a complete antithesis to him, and whom,
+owing to his slowness, the crew had favoured with the characteristic
+name of Bowline, which he had accepted, and was so accustomed to answer
+to it, that he had almost forgotten the name he previously bore.
+
+The service the Count had done Michael, the latter had rendered to
+Bowline: hence he was attached to the Breton through this very service,
+and while mocking and teasing him from morning till night, he had a
+sincere friendship for him.
+
+The Breton understood Michael, and so far as his reserved and slightly
+demonstrative nature permitted, he testified on every occasion his
+gratitude to the Basque, by letting himself be completely directed and
+governed by him in all the actions of his life, without ever attempting
+to revolt against the frequent exorbitant demands of his mentor.
+
+If we have dwelt so long on the character of these two men, it is
+because they are destined in the course of this work to play an
+important part; and the reader must be acquainted with them, in order
+to understand the facts we shall have to record.
+
+The Count and his sailor continued to advance along the streets,
+the one reflecting and amusing himself the other remaining, through
+respect, a few paces in the rear, and desperately smoking a pipe, whose
+stem was so short that the bowl almost touched his lips.
+
+While walking thus straight before them, the promenaders soon reached
+the end of the town, and turned into a lane bordered by aloes, which
+led, with a rather steep incline, to the top of a hill, whence could
+be enjoyed the entire panorama of the bay of Algeciras, which, we may
+remark in a parenthesis, is the finest in the world.
+
+It was about two in the afternoon, the hottest moment of the day. The
+sun profusely poured down its torrid beams, which made the pebbles in
+the road sparkle like diamonds.
+
+Hence everybody had gone within doors to enjoy the siesta, so that,
+since landing, the two sailors had not met a living creature; and if
+the Arabian Nights, which were not translated till a century later,
+had been known at the time, the Count, without any great effort of the
+imagination, might have believed himself transported to that city where
+all the inhabitants had been sent to sleep by a wicked impostor, so
+complete was the silence around him, while the landscape had the aspect
+of a desert. To complete the illusion, the breeze had fallen, there was
+not a breath of air, and the vast expanse of water stretched out at
+their feet was as motionless as if composed of ice.
+
+The Count stopped, pensively gazing with an absent eye at his frigate,
+which at this distance was scarce as large as a skiff.
+
+Michael smoked more than ever, and admired the country with straddling
+legs, and his arm behind his back, in that position so liked by sailors.
+
+"Hilloh!" he said suddenly.
+
+"What is the matter with you?" the Count asked him, as he turned round.
+
+"Nothing the matter with me, Captain," he replied, "I am only looking
+at a lady who is coming up here at a gallop. What a fancy to go at
+that pace in such a heat as this."
+
+"Where is she?" asked the Count.
+
+"Why, there, Captain," he said, stretching out his hand to larboard.
+
+The Count turned his eyes in the direction which Michael indicated to
+him.
+
+"Why, that horse has bolted," he exclaimed, a moment later.
+
+"Do you think so, Captain?" the sailor remarked, calmly.
+
+"Zounds! I am certain of it. Look, now that she is nearer to us. The
+rider is clinging despairingly to the mane. The unhappy girl is lost!"
+
+"Very possibly," Michael said, philosophically.
+
+"Quick, quick, my lad!" the Captain shouted, as he rushed to the side
+where the horse was coming up. "We must save the lady, even if we
+perish!"
+
+The sailor made no answer; he merely took the precaution of withdrawing
+his pipe from his mouth and placing it in his pocket, and then he set
+out at a run behind his captain.
+
+The horse came on like a whirlwind. It was a barb of the purest
+Arab race, with a small head, and legs fine as spindles. It bounded
+furiously with all four legs on the narrow path it was following, with
+eyes full of flashes, and apparently snorting fire through its dilated
+nostrils. The lady on its back, half reclining on its neck, had seized
+its long mane with both hands, and, half insane with terror, as she
+felt herself lost, she uttered stifled cries at intervals.
+
+Very far in the rear, several horsemen, who formed almost imperceptible
+dots on the horizon, were coming up at full speed.
+
+The track on which the horse was engaged, was narrow and rocky, and led
+to a precipice of frightful depth, toward which the animal was dashing
+with a headlong speed.
+
+A man must either be mad, or endowed with a lion's courage, to try and
+save this unhappy woman under such conditions, when he had ninety-nine
+chances in a hundred of being crushed, without succeeding in rescuing
+her from death.
+
+The two sailors, however, made no reflections of this nature, and
+without hesitation resolved to make a supreme effort. They stood facing
+each other on either side of the track, and waited without exchanging a
+word. They understood one another.
+
+Two or three minutes elapsed, and then the horse passed like a tornado;
+but with the speed of thought the two men dashed forward, seized it by
+the bridle, and, hanging their whole weight on it, allowed themselves
+to be dragged onward by the furious animal.
+
+There was for a moment a terrible struggle between intelligence and
+brute strength. At length the brute was conquered. The horse stumbled,
+and fell panting on the ground.
+
+At the moment of its fall, the Count removed in his arms, the lady so
+miraculously saved, and he bore her to the side of the road, where he
+respectfully laid her down.
+
+Terror had certainly deprived her of consciousness.
+
+The Count guessing that the horsemen coming up, were relations or
+friends of her to whom he had just rendered so great a service,
+repaired the disorder in his clothes and awaited their arrival, while
+gazing admiringly at the young lady lying at his feet.
+
+She was a charming young creature, scarce seventeen years of age, with
+a delicate waist, and marked and adorably beautiful features; her long
+black silky hair had escaped from the comb that confined it and fell in
+perfumed curls over her face, on which a slight flush presaged a speedy
+return to life.
+
+The young lady's dress, which was very rich and remarkably elegant,
+would have led to the supposition that she was of high rank, had not
+the stamp of aristocracy, spread over her entire person, removed all
+doubts on that score.
+
+Michael, with his characteristic coolness which nothing ever upset,
+had remained by the side of the horse which, calmed by the fall and
+trembling in all its limbs, had allowed itself to be raised without
+offering the slightest resistance; the Basque after removing the
+saddle, had plucked a wisp of grass, and began rubbing the horse down,
+while admiring it, and muttering every now and then.
+
+"I don't care, it's a noble and beautiful animal! It would have been
+a pity had it rolled over that frightful precipice; I am glad it is
+saved."
+
+The worthy sailor did not think the least bit in the world of the young
+lady, for his entire interest was concentrated on the horse.
+
+When he had finished rubbing down, he put the saddle and bridle on
+again and led the horse up to the Count.
+
+"There," he said with an air of satisfaction, "now the horse is calm;
+poor creature, a child could guide it with a thread."
+
+In the meanwhile the horsemen rapidly approached, and soon came up to
+the two French sailors.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.
+
+
+These horsemen were four in number. Two of them appeared to be persons
+of importance, the other two were domestics.
+
+On coming within a few steps of the Count, the first two dismounted,
+threw their bridles to the footman and advanced, hat in hand, towards
+the gentleman, whom they saluted with exquisite politeness.
+
+The Count courteously returned their greeting, while taking a
+side-glance at them.
+
+The first was a man of about sixty; he was tall, his demeanour was
+graceful and his face appeared handsome at the first glance, for the
+expression was imposing, although gentle and even kind. Still, on
+examining it with greater attention, it was possible to see from the
+gloomy fire of his glance, which seemed at times to emit magnetic
+flashes, that this gentleness was merely a mask intended to deceive the
+vulgar; his projecting cheek bones, his wide retiring forehead, his
+nose bent like a bird's beak and his square chin denoted a cold cruelty
+blended with a strong dose of obstinacy and pride.
+
+This man wore a handsome hunting dress covered with lace, and a heavy
+gold chain, called a _fanfaronne_, was passed several times round his
+ostrich plumed hat.
+
+This fanfaronne had been brought into fashion by the adventurers who
+returned from New Spain; and though very ridiculous, it had been
+enthusiastically adopted by the haughty Castilians.
+
+This gentleman's companion, much younger than he, but dressed quite
+as richly, had one of those faces whose features at the first glance
+appear so commonplace and insignificant, that you do not take the
+trouble of looking at them, and an observer might pass close by without
+seeing them, but his small grey eyes sparkling with cleverness, half
+hidden under bushy eyebrows, and the curl of his thin sarcastic lip,
+would have completely contradicted any physiognomist, who might take
+this person for a man of common intellect and ordinary capacity.
+
+The elder of the two riders bowed a second time.
+
+"Sir," he said, "I am the Duc de Peņaflor; the person whose life you
+have saved by running such a risk of losing your own, is my daughter,
+Doņa Clara de Peņaflor."
+
+As the Count came from Languedoc, he spoke Spanish as purely as his
+mother tongue.
+
+"I am delighted, sir," he replied with a graceful bow, "at having
+served as the instrument of providence to preserve a child for her
+father."
+
+"I think," the second rider observed, "that it would be as well to
+offer Doņa Clara some succour; my dear cousin seems to be seriously
+indisposed."
+
+"It is only emotion," the young man replied; "that caused this fainting
+fit, which, if I am not mistaken, is beginning to wear off."
+
+"Yes indeed," said the Duke, "I think I saw her make a slight movement,
+it will be better not to trouble her, but let her regain her senses
+quietly; in that way, we shall avoid a shock whose results are
+sometimes very dangerous to delicate and nervous organisations, like
+that of my dear child."
+
+All this was spoken with a cold, dry, steady voice, very different
+to what a father ought to have employed, whose daughter had just
+miraculously escaped death.
+
+The young officer did not know what to think of his real or feigned
+indifference.
+
+It was only Spanish hauteur. The Duke loved his daughter as much as his
+proud and ambitious nature allowed him to do, but he would have been
+ashamed to let it be seen, especially by a stranger.
+
+"Sir," the Duke resumed a moment later, as he stepped aside to display
+the gentlemen who accompanied him, "I have the honour of presenting to
+you my cousin and friend, Count Don Stenio de Bejar y Sousa."
+
+The two gentlemen bowed to each other.
+
+The Count had no motive to maintain an incognito, and saw that the
+moment had arrived to make himself known.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, "I am Count Ludovic de Barmont Senectaire,
+Captain in the Navy, and commanding the French frigate the _Erigone_,
+now anchored in Algeciras Bay."
+
+On hearing the Count's name pronounced, the Duke's face turned
+frightfully pale; he frowned till his eyebrows joined, and he gave him
+a strangely meaning glance.
+
+But this emotion did not last longer than a flash: by a violent effort
+of the will the Spaniard thrust back to the bottom of his heart, the
+feelings that agitated him; his previous impassiveness returned to his
+face, and he bowed with a smile.
+
+The ice was broken between the three gentlemen, for they saw they were
+equals; their manner at once changed, and they became as affable as
+they had at first been stiff and reserved.
+
+The Duke was the first to renew the conversation in the most friendly
+voice.
+
+"You are doubtless taking advantage of the truce made a short time
+back, between our two nations, my lord, to visit our country?"
+
+"Pardon me, my lord Duke, I was not aware that hostilities had ceased
+between our two armies. I have been at sea for a long time, and without
+news of France; chance alone brought me to this coast a few hours ago,
+and I sought shelter in Algeciras Bay, to await a change of wind to
+pass the Straits."
+
+"I bless the accident, Count, since I owe to it my daughter's safety."
+
+Doņa Clara had opened her eyes, and, though still very weak, she was
+beginning to account for the position in which she found herself.
+
+"Oh," she said, in a soft and humorous voice, and with an inward
+shudder, "had it not been for that gentleman, I should be dead!"
+and she attempted to smile, while fixing on the young man her large
+eyes full of tears, with an expressive gratitude it is impossible to
+describe.
+
+"How do you feel, my daughter?" the Duke asked. "I am quite well, now,
+I thank you, papa," she replied; "when I felt that Moreno no longer
+obeyed the bit, and was running away, I believed myself lost, and
+terror caused me to faint; but where is my poor Moreno?" she added a
+moment after, "Has any misfortune happened to him?"
+
+"Reassure yourself, seņorita," the Count replied with a smile, and
+pointing to the horse, "here he is, all right, and quite calmed; if you
+like you can ride back on him without the slightest apprehension."
+
+"I certainly will mount my good Moreno," she said, "I bear him no ill
+will for his prank, although it nearly cost me dear."
+
+"My lord," the Duke then said, "I venture to hope that we shall not
+part thus, and that you will deign to accept the cordial hospitality
+which I offer you at my castle."
+
+"My time is not my own, unfortunately, my lord Duke, and duty demands
+my immediate presence on board. Be assured I deeply regret my inability
+to accept your kind offer."
+
+"Do you then expect to set sail so soon?"
+
+"No, sir; on the contrary, I hope," he replied, laying a certain stress
+on the words, "to remain here some time longer."
+
+"In that case," the Duke remarked with a smile, "I do not consider
+myself beaten. I am certain we shall meet again soon, and become more
+intimate acquaintances."
+
+"That is my most eager desire, sir," the young man said, taking a side
+glance at Doņa Clara, who hung her head with a blush.
+
+The Count then took leave, and proceeded in the direction of Algeciras,
+while the horsemen slowly retired in exactly the opposite direction.
+
+The Captain walked on very thoughtfully, reflecting on the singular
+adventure of which he had so suddenly been the hero; recalling the
+slightest details, and admiring in memory the beauty of the young lady,
+whose life he had been so fortunate as to save.
+
+Being constantly absorbed by the thousand claims of his rude
+profession, and nearly always at sea, the Count, though almost
+twenty-five years of age, had never yet loved; he had not even thought
+about it; the few women he had hitherto met had produced no effect on
+his heart, his mind had always remained free in their presence, and no
+serious engagement had as yet disturbed its tranquillity. Hence it was
+with a certain terror mingled with astonishment, that while reflecting
+on the meeting which had suddenly interrupted his quiet walk, he
+perceived that the beauty of Doņa Clara and her gentle voice had left
+a powerful impression on his mind, that her image was ever present,
+and that his memory with implacable fidelity ever recalled even its
+apparently most indifferent details, the short interview he had had
+with her.
+
+"Come, come," he said, shaking his head several times as if to drive
+away a troublesome thought; "I am mad."
+
+"Well, Captain," said Michael, who took advantage of this exclamation,
+to give a free course to the reflections which he burned to express
+aloud, "I don't care, but you must confess it was very lucky all the
+same for that young lady, that we were there at the very nick of time."
+
+"Very lucky, indeed, Michael," the Count replied, delighted at this
+diversion; "had we not been there the unhappy young lady would have
+been lost."
+
+"That is true, and hopelessly so; poor little thing."
+
+"What a frightful fate! So young, and so lovely."
+
+"I allow that she is well built, although I fancy her lines are a
+little too fine, and she is a trifle too pale." The Count smiled, but
+made no reply to the sailor's rather venturesome opinion.
+
+The latter, feeling himself encouraged, went on--
+
+"Will you allow me to give you a bit of advice, Captain?"
+
+"What is it, my lad? Speak without fear."
+
+"As for fear, deuce take me if I feel that, but I should not like to
+pain you."
+
+"Pain me, about what?"
+
+"Well, all the worse, I must out with it. When you mentioned your name,
+Captain, to the old Duke--"
+
+"Well, what happened?"
+
+"On hearing it pronounced, he suddenly turned as pale as a corpse; he
+frowned upon you so terrible a look that I fancied for a moment that he
+wished to assassinate you; don't you consider that funny, Captain?"
+
+"What you say is impossible; you are mistaken."
+
+"You did not notice it, because you had your head down, but I was
+looking at him without seeming to do so, and am quite certain about
+what I say."
+
+"But reflect, Michael, I do not know this nobleman, I never saw him
+before today; how can he possibly feel hatred for me; you are rambling,
+my good fellow."
+
+"Not at all, Captain, I am certain of what I state; whether you know
+him or not is no business of mine, but as for him, I will wager that he
+knows you, and intimately too; the impression you produced on him was
+too strong for it to be otherwise."
+
+"I will admit, if you like, that he knows me, but one thing I can
+certify, that I never offended him."
+
+"That is a point on which a man can never be sure, Captain; look you,
+I am a Basque, and have known the Spaniards for a long time; they are
+a strange people--proud as cocks, and rancorous as fiends; believe me,
+distrust them always; that can do no harm, and especially that old
+gentleman, who has a crafty face I do not like at all."
+
+"All that has no common sense, Michael, and I am as mad as yourself in
+listening to you."
+
+"Very well," the sailor said with a toss of the head, "we shall see
+hereafter whether I am mistaken."
+
+The conversation ended here; still Michael's remarks occupied the
+Captain more than he would have liked to show, and he returned on board
+with a very thoughtful air. On the next morning at about ten o'clock an
+excellent pleasure yacht hailed the frigate.
+
+This vessel contained the Duc de Peņaflor, and his silent cousin, Count
+de Bejar y Sousa.
+
+"On my faith, my dear Count," the Duke said, good-humouredly, after the
+first compliments, "you are going to find me very unceremonious, for I
+have come to carry you off."
+
+"Carry me off?" the young man replied with a smile.
+
+"On my word, yes. Just imagine, Count, my daughter insists on seeing
+you; she only speaks of you, and as she does pretty well what she
+pleases with me--a thing that will not surprise you greatly. She sent
+me to you to tell you that you must absolutely accompany me to the
+castle."
+
+"So it is," Don Stenio said with a bow, "the Seņorita Doņa Clara
+insists on seeing you."
+
+"Still--" the other objected.
+
+"I will listen to nothing," the Duke remarked quickly, "you must make
+up your mind, my dear Count, you can only obey, for you are aware that
+ladies cannot be thwarted; so come, reassure yourself, though, I am not
+going to take you far, for my castle is scarce two leagues from here."
+
+The Count, who in his heart, felt a lively desire to see Doņa Clara
+again, did not allow himself to be pressed one bit more than was
+correct: then, after giving the necessary orders to his second in
+command, he accompanied the Duc de Peņaflor, followed by Michael, who
+seemed to be the Captain's shade.
+
+This was the way in which began a connection which was soon to
+be changed into love, and have, at a later date, such terrible
+consequences for the unhappy officer.
+
+The Duke and his eternal cousin who never quitted him, overwhelmed
+the Count with protestations of friendship, granted him the most
+perfect liberty at the castle, and appeared not at all to notice the
+intelligence which was soon established between Doņa Clara and the
+young man.
+
+The latter, completely subjugated by the passion he experienced for the
+young lady, yielded to his love with the confident and unreflecting
+abandonment of all hearts that love for the first time.
+
+Doņa Clara, a simple girl, brought up with all the rigid strictness of
+Spanish manners, but an Andalusian from head to foot, had listened with
+a quiver of delight to the confession of this love which she had shared
+from the first moment.
+
+Everybody, therefore, was happy at the castle; Michael alone formed
+an exception, with his stolid face, which was never unwrinkled; the
+more rapidly he saw matters tending to the conclusion the young people
+desired, the more gloomy and anxious he became.
+
+In the meanwhile the frigate had left Algeciras for Cadiz.
+
+The Duke, his daughter, and Don Stenio had made the passage on board;
+the Duc de Peņaflor wanted to go to Seville, where he had large
+estates, hence he accepted with eager demonstrations of joy the
+proposal the Count made him, of conveying him on board his frigate to
+Cadiz, which is only some twenty leagues from Seville.
+
+On the day after the frigate's arrival at Cadiz, the Captain put on his
+full uniform, went ashore, and proceeded to the Duke's palace.
+
+The Duke, doubtless warned of his visit, received him with a smile on
+his lips, and with a most affectionate air.
+
+Emboldened by this reception, the Count, overcoming his timidity,
+requested leave to marry Doņa Clara.
+
+The Duke received it favourably; said that he had expected this
+request, and that it satisfied all his wishes, since it caused the
+happiness of a daughter he loved.
+
+"Still," he remarked to the Count, "although there was a truce between
+the two countries, a peace was not yet signed. Though, according to all
+appearance it would be soon carried out, for all that, he feared lest
+the news of this marriage might injure the Count's future, by rendering
+the Cardinal ill disposed toward him."
+
+This reflection had several times offered itself to the young officer's
+mind; hence he hung his head, not daring to reply, because, unluckily,
+he had no valid reason to offer, that would remove the Duke's
+objections.
+
+The latter came to his assistance by saying that there was a very
+simple way of arranging matters to the general satisfaction, and
+removing this apparently insurmountable difficulty.
+
+The Count quivering with fear and pleasure, asked what this method was.
+
+The Duke then explained to him that he meant a secret marriage. As
+long as the war lasted, silence would be maintained, but once peace
+was concluded and an ambassador sent to Paris, the marriage should be
+publicly announced to the Cardinal, who then would probably not feel
+offended by the union.
+
+The young man had been too near seeing his dream of bliss eternally
+destroyed to raise the slightest objection to this proposition; secret
+or not, the marriage would not be the less valid and he cared little
+for the rest. Hence he consented to all the conditions imposed on him
+by the Duke, who insisted that the marriage might be effected in such
+a way as to keep him in ignorance of it, so that in the event of his
+Eminence attempting to turn the King against him, he might employ this
+pretended ignorance in foiling the ill will of those who might attempt
+to ruin him.
+
+The Count did not exactly understand what the King of Spain had to do
+with his marriage; but as the Duke spoke with an air of conviction, and
+seemed to be greatly alarmed about the King's displeasure, he consented
+to everything.
+
+Two days later at nightfall, the young couple were married at the
+Church of la Merced, by a priest, who consented for a heavy sum to lend
+his ministration to this illegal act.
+
+Michael the Basque and Bowline served as witnesses of the captain, who,
+on the pressing recommendation of the Duke, was unwilling to let any of
+his officers into his secrets, while he was sure of the silence of the
+two sailors.
+
+Immediately after the ceremony, the new bride was taken off on one side
+by her witnesses, while her husband withdrew greatly annoyed on the
+other, and went aboard the frigate.
+
+When the Count on the next morning presented himself at the Duke's
+palace, the latter informed him that, in order to remove any pretext
+for malevolence, he had thought it advisable to send away his daughter
+for a while, and she had gone to stay with a relation residing at
+Grenada.
+
+The Count did not allow his disappointment to be seen; he withdrew,
+pretending to accept as gospel the somewhat specious reasoning of the
+Duke.
+
+Still, he was beginning to find the Duke's conduct towards him very
+extraordinary, and he resolved to clear up the doubts that arose in his
+mind.
+
+Michael and Bowline were sent into the country to reconnoitre.
+
+The Count learned from them, not without surprise, at the end of two
+days' researches that Doņa Clara was not at Grenada, but merely at
+Puerto Santa Maria, a charming little town facing Cadiz on the opposite
+side of the road.
+
+The Captain, so soon as he possessed the information for the success
+of the plan he meditated, managed by the intervention of Michael, who
+spoke Spanish like an Andalusian, to send a note to Doņa Clara, and at
+nightfall, followed by his two faithful sailors, he landed at Santa
+Maria.
+
+The house inhabited by the young lady was rather isolated; he set the
+two sailors on sentry to watch over her safety, and walked straight up
+to the house.
+
+Doņa Clara herself opened the door for him. The joy of the couple was
+immense, and the Count retired shortly before sunrise; at about ten
+o'clock, he went as usual to pay a visit to his father-in-law, in
+whose presence he continued to feign the most complete ignorance as to
+Doņa Clara's abode, and was most kindly welcomed.
+
+This state of things went on for nearly a month. One day the Count
+suddenly received information of the resumption of the hostilities
+between Spain and France; he was himself forced to quit Cadiz, but
+wished to have a final interview with the Duke, in order to ask him for
+a frank explanation of his conduct; in the event of this explanation
+not satisfying him, he was resolved to carry his wife off.
+
+When he arrived at the Duke's palace, a confidential servant informed
+him that his master, suddenly summoned by the king, had started an hour
+previously to Madrid, without, to his great regret, having had time to
+take leave of him.
+
+On hearing this, the Count had a presentiment of evil; he turned pale,
+but succeeded in overcoming his emotion, and calmly asked the valet
+whether his master had not left a letter for him; the servant answered
+in the affirmative and handed him a sealed note.
+
+The Count broke the seal with a trembling hand and ran through the
+letter, but his emotion was so great on perusing the contents that he
+tottered, and had not the valet sprang forward to support him, he would
+have fallen to the ground.
+
+"Ah!" he muttered, "Michael was right," and he crumpled the paper
+savagely.
+
+But suddenly recovering himself, he overcame his grief and, after
+giving the valet several louis, hurried away.
+
+"Poor young man!" the valet muttered with a sorrowful shake of the head
+and re-entered the palace, the gates of which he closed after him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+DESPAIR.
+
+
+A few yards from the palace the Count met Michael, who was coming
+towards him.
+
+"A boat, quick, quick, my good Michael," he shouted, "'tis a matter of
+life and death."
+
+The sailor, terrified at the condition in which he saw his commandant,
+wished to ask him what the matter was, but the Count roughly imposed
+silence on him by repeating his order to procure a boat at once.
+
+Michael bowed his head.
+
+"Woe is me. I foresaw this," he muttered, with mingled grief and anger,
+and he ran off towards the port.
+
+It is not a difficult task to find a boat at Cadiz, and Michael had
+only to choose; comprehending that the Count was in a hurry, he
+selected one pulled by ten oars.
+
+The Count arrived at the same moment.
+
+"Twenty louis for you and your crew if you are at Puerto in twenty
+minutes," he shouted, as he leaped into the boat, which was almost
+capsized by the violence of the shock.
+
+The boat started, the sailors bent over their oars, and made her fly
+through the water.
+
+The captain with his eyes obstinately fixed on Santa Maria, and
+striking his clenched fist on the boat's gunwale, in spite of the
+excessive speed at which it was going, incessantly repeated in a
+choking voice--
+
+"Quicker, quicker, muchachos."
+
+He passed like an arrow across the bows of the frigate, whose crew were
+preparing to weigh anchor. At length they reached Puerto.
+
+"No one is to follow me," the captain cried, as he leaped ashore.
+
+But Michael did not heed this order, and at the risk of what might
+happen to him, he set out in pursuit of the Count, whom he would not
+abandon in his present frightful condition.
+
+It was fortunate he did so, for when he reached the house Doņa Clara
+had inhabited, he saw the young man lying senseless on the ground.
+
+The house was deserted, and Doņa Clara had disappeared.
+
+The sailor took his captain on his shoulders and conveyed him to the
+boat, where he laid him as comfortably as he could in the stem sheets.
+
+"Where are we going?" the master asked.
+
+"To the French frigate; and make haste," Michael replied.
+
+When the boat was alongside the frigate, Michael paid the master the
+promised reward, and then aided by several of the crew, conveyed the
+captain to his cabin. As it was eminently necessary to keep the Count's
+secret, and avoid arousing suspicions, the sailor in his report to
+the first commandant, ascribed to a violent fall from a horse, the
+condition in which the captain was; then, after making a signal to
+Bowline to follow him, he returned to the cabin.
+
+M. de Barmont was still as motionless as if he were dead; the chief
+surgeon of the frigate in vain bestowed the greatest care on him
+without succeeding in recalling life, which seemed to have fled forever.
+
+"Send away your assistants; Bowline and myself will suffice," Michael
+said to the doctor, with a meaning glance.
+
+The surgeon comprehended, and dismissed the mates. When the door had
+closed on them the sailor drew the doctor into a gun berth, and said to
+him, in so low a voice as to be scarce audible--
+
+"Major, the Commandant has just experienced a great sorrow, which
+produced the terrible crisis he is suffering from at this moment. I
+confide this to you because a surgeon is like a confessor."
+
+"All right, my lad," the surgeon replied; "the Captain's secret has
+been trusted to sure ears."
+
+"I am convinced of that, Major; the officers and crew must suppose that
+the Captain has been thrown from his horse, you understand. I have
+already told the lieutenant so in making the report."
+
+"Very good; I will corroborate your statement, my lad."
+
+"Thanks, Major; now I have another thing to ask of you."
+
+"Speak."
+
+"You must obtain the lieutenant's leave that no one but Bowline and
+myself may wait on the Captain. Look you, Major, we are old sailors of
+his, he can say what he likes before us; and then, too, he will be glad
+to have us near him; will you get this leave from the lieutenant?"
+
+"Yes, my lad; I know that you are a good fellow, sincerely attached to
+the Captain, and that he places entire confidence in you; hence, do not
+feel alarmed--I will settle that with the lieutenant, and you and your
+companion shall alone come in here with me so long as the Captain is
+ill."
+
+"Thanks, Major; if an opportunity offers itself I will repay you this;
+on the faith of a Basque, you are a worthy man."
+
+The surgeon began laughing.
+
+"Let us return to our patient," he said, in order to cut short the
+conversation.
+
+In spite of the intelligent care the doctor paid him the Count's
+fainting fit lasted the whole day.
+
+"The shock was frightful," he said--"it was almost a congestion."
+
+It was not till night, when the frigate had been for a long time at
+sea, and had left Cadiz roads far behind it, that a favourable crisis
+set in, and the Captain became slightly better.
+
+"He is about to regain his senses," the doctor said.
+
+In fact, a few convulsive movements agitated the Count's body, and he
+half-opened his eyes; but his glances were wild and absent; he looked
+all around him, as if trying to discover where he was, and why he was
+thus lying on his bed.
+
+The three men, with their eyes fixed on him, anxiously watched this
+return to life, whose appearance was anything but reassuring to them.
+
+The surgeon, more especially, seemed restless; big forehead was
+wrinkled, and his eyebrows met, through the effort of some internal
+emotion.
+
+All at once the Count hurriedly sat up, and addressed Michael, who was
+standing by his side.
+
+"Lieutenant," he said to him, in a quick, sharp voice, "let her fall
+off a point, or else the Spanish vessel will escape--why have you not
+beat to quarters, sir?"
+
+The surgeon gave Michael a sign.
+
+"Pardon, Commandant," the latter replied, humouring the sick man's
+fancy, "we have beaten to quarters, and the tops are all manned."
+
+"Very good," he answered; then suddenly changing his ideas, he
+muttered--"She will come, she promised it me. But no, she will not
+come; she is dead to me henceforth--dead! dead!" he repeated, in a
+hollow voice, with different intonations; then he uttered a piercing
+cry--"Oh, heaven! How I suffer!" he exclaimed, bursting into sobs,
+while a torrent of tears inundated his face.
+
+He buried his head in his hands, and fell back on his bed.
+
+The two sailors anxiously examined the surgeon's impassive face, trying
+to read in his features what they had to hope or fear.
+
+The latter uttered a deep sigh of relief, passed his hand over his damp
+forehead, and turning to Michael, said--
+
+"Heaven be praised! He sheds tears--he is saved."
+
+"Heaven be praised!" the sailors repeated, crossing themselves devoutly.
+
+"Do you think he is mad, Major?" Michael asked, in a trembling voice.
+
+"No, it is not madness, but delirium; he will soon fall asleep--do not
+leave him; when he awakes he will remember nothing. If he ask for drink
+give him the potion I have prepared, and which is on that table."
+
+"Yes, Major."
+
+"Now I am going to retire; if any unforeseen accident occur, warn me at
+once; but, in any case, I shall look in again tonight."
+
+The surgeon left the cabin; his previsions were soon realised, M. de
+Barmont gradually fell into a calm and peaceful sleep.
+
+The two sailors stood motionless by his bedside; no nurse could have
+watched a patient with greater care and more delicate attention than
+did these two men, whose exterior seemed so hard, but whose hearts were
+really so kind.
+
+The whole night passed away thus; the surgeon had come in several
+times, but after a few minutes' examination he withdrew with an air of
+satisfaction, and laying a finger on his lips.
+
+About morning, at the first sunbeam that entered the cabin, the Count
+made a slight movement, opened his eyes, and slightly turned his head.
+
+"My good Michael, give me some drink," he said, in a feeble voice.
+
+The sailor handed him a glass.
+
+"I feel crushed," he muttered; "have I been ill?"
+
+"Yes, a little," the sailor replied; "but now it is all over, thank
+heaven! You need only have patience."
+
+"I feel the motion of the frigate--are we under weigh?"
+
+"Yes, Commandant."
+
+"And who gave the orders?"
+
+"Yourself, last night."
+
+"Ah!" he remarked, as he handed back the glass. His head fell heavily
+on the pillow again, and he was silent.
+
+Still, he did not sleep; his eyes were opened, and gazed anxiously all
+around.
+
+"I remember," he murmured, while two tears welled in his eyes; then he
+suddenly addressed Michael.
+
+"It was you who picked me up and brought me aboard?"
+
+"Yes, Captain, 'twas."
+
+"Thanks! and yet it would have perhaps been better to leave me to die."
+
+The sailor shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.
+
+"That is a fine idea, strike me!" he grumbled.
+
+"Oh, if you only knew," he said, sorrowfully.
+
+"I knew all; did I not warn you of it the first day?"
+
+"That is true; I ought to have believed you--but, alas! I already loved
+her."
+
+"Zounds! I knew that, and she deserved it."
+
+"Does she still love me?"
+
+"Who can doubt it, poor dear creature?"
+
+"You are a good man, Michael."
+
+"I am just."
+
+There was another silence.
+
+At the expiration of a few minutes the Count renewed the conversation.
+
+"Did you find the letter?" he asked. "Where is it?"
+
+"Here," he said, as he handed it to him.
+
+The Count eagerly clutched it.
+
+"Have you read it?" he asked.
+
+"For what purpose?" said Michael. "Zounds, it must be a tissue of lies
+and infamies! And I am not curious about reading such things."
+
+"There, take it," said the Count.
+
+"To tear it up?"
+
+"No, to read it."
+
+"What's the good?"
+
+"You must know the contents of the letter--I order it."
+
+"That is different--give it here."
+
+He took the letter, opened, and ran through it.
+
+"Read it aloud," said the Count.
+
+"That is a pretty job you give me, Commandant. Still, as you wish it, I
+must obey you."
+
+"I implore you, Michael."
+
+"Enough, Captain."
+
+And he began reading the strange missive aloud.
+
+It was short and laconic, but on that very account it necessarily
+produced a more terrible effect, because every word was carefully
+chosen to go straight home.
+
+The following was its tenor:--
+
+MY LORD,
+
+You have not married my daughter: I defrauded you by a false marriage.
+You shall never see her again--she is dead to you. For many years there
+has been an implacable hatred between your family and mine. I should
+not have gone to seek you, but Heaven itself brought you in my way. I
+understood that it was desired I should avenge myself, and I obeyed.
+I believe that I have succeeded in breaking your heart forever. The
+love you have for my daughter is sincere and deep. All the better, for
+you will suffer the more cruelly. Farewell, my lord. Believe me, you
+had better not try to find me, for, if you succeed, my vengeance will
+be even more terrible. My daughter will marry in a month the man she
+loves, and whom alone she has ever loved.
+
+"Don Estevan de Sylva, Duc de Peņaflor."
+
+When the sailor had finished reading he turned an enquiring glance to
+his chief. The latter shook his head several times, but made no other
+reply.
+
+Michael handed back the letter, which the Captain at once concealed
+beneath his pillow.
+
+"What do you intend to do?" the sailor asked him, a moment after.
+
+"You shall know hereafter," the Count answered, in a hollow voice. "I
+could not form a determination now, for my head is still heavy, and I
+require to reflect."
+
+Michael gave a nod of assent.
+
+At this moment the doctor came in. He appeared delighted at seeing his
+patient in so good a state, and with a joyous rubbing of his hands,
+promised that he should leave his bed in a week at the latest.
+
+In fact, the surgeon was not mistaken, for the Count rapidly recovered;
+ere long he was able to rise, and at the end of a few days, were it
+not for a cadaverous pallor spread over his face, and which he ever
+retained, his strength seemed to have entirely come back to him.
+
+M. de Barmont steered his frigate up the Tagus, and anchored before
+Lisbon. So soon as the vessel was moored the Captain summoned the
+second in command to his cabin, and had a long conversation with him,
+after which he went ashore with Michael and Bowline.
+
+The frigate remained under the command of the first lieutenant: the
+Count had abandoned it for ever.
+
+This deed almost constituted a desertion; but M. de Barmont was
+resolved on returning to Cadiz at all hazards.
+
+During the few days that had elapsed since his conference with Michael,
+the Count had reflected, as he promised the sailor.
+
+The result of his reflections was, that Doņa Clara had been deceived
+by the Duke like himself, and believed herself really married--indeed,
+the whole of the young lady's behaviour to him proved the fact. In
+desiring to insure his vengeance too thoroughly, the Duke had gone
+beyond his object: Doņa Clara loved him, he felt certain of that. She
+had only obeyed her father under the constraint of force.
+
+This admitted, only one thing was left the Count to do; to return
+to Cadiz, collect information, find the Duke, and have a solemn
+explanation with him in his daughter's presence.
+
+This plan drawn up in his mind, the young man immediately set, about
+carrying it out, leaving the command of his vessel to the lieutenant,
+at the risk of destroying his career and being pursued as a traitor, as
+the war was raging between France and Spain. He freighted a coaster;
+and, followed by his two sailors, to whom he had frankly explained his
+intention, but who would not leave him, he returned to Cadiz.
+
+Thanks to the thorough knowledge of Spanish he possessed, the Count did
+not arouse any suspicions in that city, where it was easy for him to
+obtain the information he desired.
+
+The Duke had really set out for Madrid. The Count at once proceeded
+to that city. A gentleman of the importance of the Duc de Peņaflor,
+a grandee of Spain of the first class, a _caballero cubierto_, could
+not travel without leaving traces, especially when nothing led him to
+suspect that he was followed. Hence the Count had not the slightest
+difficulty in discovering the route he had taken, and he arrived
+at Madrid, persuaded that he should soon have with the Duke the
+explanation he so ardently desired.
+
+But his hopes were foiled. The Duke, after being honored with a private
+audience by the King, had set out for Barcelona.
+
+Fatality interfered, but the Count would not be baffled: he mounted his
+horse, crossed Spain, and arrived at Barcelona.
+
+The Duke had embarked for Naples on the previous day.
+
+This pursuit was assuming the proportions of an Odyssey: it seemed as
+if the Duke felt that he was being pursued.
+
+It was not so, however. He was carrying out a mission with which his
+sovereign had entrusted him.
+
+The Count made enquiries, and learnt that the Duc de Peņaflor was
+accompanied by his daughter, and two sons.
+
+Two days later, M. de Barmont was sailing to Naples, on board a
+smuggling vessel.
+
+We will not enter into all the details of this obstinate pursuit, which
+lasted for several months.
+
+We will confine ourselves to saying that the Count missed the Duke
+at Naples, as he had missed him at Madrid and Barcelona, and that he
+traversed the whole of Italy, and entered France, still in chase of his
+intangible enemy, who seemed to fly before him.
+
+But during the interval, although the Count did not suspect, the parts
+had been greatly modified, if not completely changed.
+
+In this way.
+
+The Duke had a great interest in knowing what the Count would do.
+Though it was certain that the war would compel him to leave Spain,
+still he was too well acquainted with the young man's resolute and
+determined character to suppose for a moment that he would accept the
+insult offered him, without trying to take a startling revenge.
+
+In consequence, he had left at Cadiz a confidential man with orders to
+watch the Count's movements with the greatest care, in the event of his
+reappearing, and to warn the Duke of what steps he might take.
+
+The man had conscientiously and most skilfully discharged the delicate
+duty entrusted to him, and while the Count was pursuing the Duke, he
+pursued the Count, never letting him out of sight, stopping when he
+stopped, and setting out behind him directly he saw him start.
+
+When at last he felt assured that the Count was really after his
+master, he got ahead of him, rejoined the Duke, whom he came up with
+in the neighbourhood of Pignerol, and reported to him all that he had
+learned.
+
+The Duke, though internally terrified by the hateful persistency of
+his enemy, pretended to attach but very slight importance to this
+communication, and smiled contemptuously on listening to his servant's
+report.
+
+But, for all this, he did not neglect to take his precautions; and, as
+peace was on the point of being signed, and a Spanish plenipotentiary
+was in Paris, he sent off the same valet to him at full speed, with a
+pressing letter.
+
+This letter was a formal denunciation of the Count de Barmont
+Senectaire.
+
+Cardinal de Richelieu raised no difficulty about granting an order
+to arrest the Count, and police agents of his Eminence, commanded by
+Franįois Bouillot, left Paris in pursuit of the unhappy officer.
+
+The latter, completely ignorant of what was going on, had continued
+his journey, and even gained ground on the Duke, who, persuaded that
+henceforth he would have nothing to fear from his enemy, as the latter
+would be arrested before he could come up with him, now travelled by
+easy stages.
+
+The Duke's calculations were false, however. He had not reflected that
+the Cardinal's guards, not knowing where to find the man whom they had
+orders to arrest, and obliged to feel their way, would be compelled to
+almost double their journey: and this really occurred.
+
+Moreover, as, with the exception of Bouillot, not one of them was
+personally acquainted with the Count, and he, as we now know, desired
+nothing so much as the Count's escape, he passed through the midst
+of them unsuspected, which occasioned them a great loss of time, by
+compelling them to turn back.
+
+We have already narrated how, after the stormy explanation which took
+place between father-in-law and son-in-law, the latter was arrested,
+taken by Bouillot to the Isle St. Marguerite, and delivered over
+to Major de l'Oursičre. And now that we have fully explained the
+respective positions of each of our characters, we will resume our
+narrative at the point where we left it.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+THE PRISONER.
+
+
+We have mentioned that after proof of identity, and perusal of the
+order of arrest, Major de l'Oursičre, governor of the fortress of St.
+Marguerite, had the Count conducted to the room which was to serve as
+his prison, until the day when it might please the Cardinal to restore
+him to liberty.
+
+This room, very spacious and lofty, of an octagonal shape, and with
+whitewashed walls, fifteen feet thick, was only lighted by two narrow
+loopholes, covered with an under and outer iron trelliswork, which
+completely prevented any looking out.
+
+A large chimney, with a wide mantelpiece, occupied one corner of the
+room: facing was a bed, composed of a thin palliasse and a narrow
+mattress laid on a deal bedstead, formerly painted yellow, though time
+had completely removed the colour.
+
+A rickety table, a stool, a chair, a night commode, and an iron
+candlestick, completed the furniture, which was more than modest.
+
+This room was situated on the highest floor of the tower, the platform
+of which, where a sentry tramped day and night, served as the ceiling.
+
+The soldier drew the bolts that garnished the iron-lined door of this
+room. The Count entered, with a firm step.
+
+After taking a glance at these cold, sad walls, destined henceforward
+to serve him as a habitation, he sat down on a chair, crossed his arms
+on his breast, hung his head, and began to reflect.
+
+The soldier, or rather gaoler, who had gone out, returned an hour
+later, and found him in the same position.
+
+He brought with him sheets, blankets, and wood to light a fire. Behind
+him two soldiers carried the portmanteau containing the prisoner's
+clothes and linen, which they placed in a corner, and retired.
+
+The gaoler at once set to work making the bed. Then he swept the room
+and lit the fire. When these different duties were accomplished, he
+approached the prisoner.
+
+"My lord?" he said to him politely.
+
+"What do you want with me, my friend?" the Count answered, raising his
+head and looking at him gently.
+
+"The governor of the castle desires the honour of an interview with
+you, as he says he has an important communication to make."
+
+"I am at the governor's orders," the Count said laconically.
+
+The gaoler bowed and went out.
+
+"What can the man want with me?" the Count muttered, so soon as he was
+alone.
+
+He had not long to wait, for the door opened again and the governor
+made his appearance.
+
+The prisoner rose to receive him, bowed, and then silently waited for
+him to speak.
+
+The Major made the gaoler a sign to withdraw, and then, after a fresh
+bow, he said with cold politeness,--
+
+"My lord Count, gentlemen should respect each other. Although
+the orders I have received on your account from the Cardinal are
+very strict, I still desire to shew you any attention that is not
+incompatible with my duty. I have, therefore, come to you frankly in
+order to have an understanding on the subject."
+
+The Count guessed to what this speech tended, but did not let it be
+seen, and answered,--
+
+"Mr. Governor, I am grateful, as I ought to be, for the steps you
+have been kind enough to take; may I ask you, therefore, to have the
+goodness to explain to me the nature of your orders, and what the
+favours are by which you can alleviate their severity. But, in the
+first place, as I am at home here," he added, with a melancholy smile;
+"do me the honour of seating yourself."
+
+The Major bowed, but remained standing.
+
+"It is unnecessary, my lord," he remarked, "as what I have to say to
+you is very short; in the first place, you will observe that I have had
+the delicacy to send you the trunk containing your effects unexamined
+as I had the right to do."
+
+"I allow the fact, Major, and feel obliged; to you for it."
+
+The Major bowed.
+
+"As you are an officer, my lord," he said, "you are aware that his
+Eminence the Cardinal, although he is a great man, is not very liberal
+to officers whose infirmity or wounds compel them to quit the service."
+
+"That is true."
+
+"The governors of fortresses more especially, although nominated by the
+King, being obliged to pay a long price to their predecessors for the
+office, are reduced to a perfect state of want, if they have not saved
+up some money."
+
+"I was not aware of that circumstance, sir, and fancied that the
+governorship of a fortress was a reward."
+
+"So it is, my lord, but we have to pay for the command of fortresses
+like this, which are employed as state prisons."
+
+"Ah! Very good."
+
+"You understand, it is supposed that the governor makes a profit by the
+prisoners intrusted to his keeping."
+
+"Of course, sir; are there at present many unhappy men who have
+incurred the displeasure of His Eminence detained in this castle?"
+
+"Alas, sir, you are the only one, and that is exactly the reason why I
+desire to have an amicable settlement with you."
+
+"For my part, be assured, sir, that I desire nothing more earnestly."
+
+"I am convinced of that, and hence will discuss the question frankly."
+
+"Do so, sir, do so; I am listening to you with the most serious
+attention."
+
+"I have orders, sir, not to let you communicate with anyone but your
+gaoler, to give you neither books, papers, pens, or ink, and never to
+allow you to quit this room; it appears there is great fear of your
+escape from here, and his Eminence is anxious to keep you."
+
+"I am extremely obliged to his Eminence, but luckily for me," the Count
+answered with a smile, "instead of having to deal with a gaoler, I am
+dependent on a true soldier, who, while strictly obeying his orders,
+considers it unnecessary to torture a prisoner already so unhappy as to
+have fallen into disgrace with the King and the Cardinal minister."
+
+"You have judged me correctly, my lord, though the orders are so
+strict. I command alone in this castle, where I have no control to
+fear. Hence I hope to have it in my power to relax the rigor I am
+commanded to show you."
+
+"Whatever may be your intention in that respect, allow me, sir, in
+my turn to speak like a frank and loyal sailor. As prisoner of your
+King, doubtless for a very long time, money is perfectly useless to
+me; though not rich, I enjoy a certain ease, on which I congratulate
+myself, as this ease permits me to requite any polite attentions you
+may show me; service for service, sir, I will give you every year
+10,000 livres, paid in advance; and, on your side, will you allow me to
+procure, at my own charges of course, all the objects susceptible of
+alleviating my captivity."
+
+The Major felt as if about to faint. The old officer of fortune had
+never in his whole life possessed so large a sum.
+
+The Count continued without seeming to notice the effect his words
+produced on the governor.
+
+"Well then, that is quite understood. To the sum the King pays you
+for my board, we will add 200 livres a month, or 2,400 per annum, for
+papers, pens, ink, &c., suppose we say the round sum of 3,000 livres,
+does that suit you?"
+
+"Ah, Sir, it is too much, a great deal too much."
+
+"No, Sir, since I assist an honourable man, who will owe me thanks for
+it."
+
+"Ah! I shall be eternally grateful, sir; but, do not be angry with my
+frankness, you will oblige me to offer up vows to keep you as long as
+possible."
+
+"Who knows, sir, whether my departure will not some day be more
+advantageous than my stay here?" he said with a meaning smile; "be good
+enough to lend me your tablets."
+
+The Major offered them to him.
+
+The Count tore out a leaf, with a few pencilled words on it, and handed
+it back to him.
+
+"Here," he said, "is a draught for 16,000 livres, which you can receive
+at sight from Messrs. Dubois, Loustal, and Co., of Toulon, whenever you
+have leisure."
+
+The governor clutched the paper with a start of joy.
+
+"But it seems to me that this draft is 800 livres in excess of the sum
+agreed on between us?" he said.
+
+"That is correct, sir, but the 800 livres are for the purchase of
+different articles, of which here is the list, and which I must ask you
+to procure for me."
+
+"You shall have them tomorrow, my lord," and after bowing very low the
+governor walked backwards out of the room.
+
+"Come," the Count muttered gaily, when the heavy door had closed on
+the Major; "I was not deceived, I judged that man correctly, and his
+is really perfect, but his most thoroughly developed vice is decidedly
+avarice; I can make something of it, I fancy, when I like, but I must
+not go ahead too fast, but act with the greatest prudence."
+
+Certain of not being disturbed, at least for some hours, the Count
+opened the trunk brought in by the two soldiers, in order to convince
+himself whether the governor had told him the truth, and the contents
+were really intact.
+
+The trunk had not been examined.
+
+In the foresight of a probable arrest, the Count when he started in
+pursuit of the Duc de Peņaflor, had purchased several objects which he
+found again with the most lively satisfaction.
+
+In addition to a certain quantity of clothes and linen, the trunk
+contained a very fine and strong silk cord, nearly one hundred fathoms
+in length, two pairs of pistols, a dagger, a sword, powder and bullets,
+objects which the governor would have confiscated without any scruple,
+had he seen them, and which the Count had laid in at all risks,
+trusting to chance.
+
+There were also several iron and steel tools, and concealed in a double
+bottom, a very heavy purse containing the sum of 25,000 livres in
+gold, in addition to another almost equally large amount in Spanish
+quadruples sewn into a wide leathern belt.
+
+So soon as the Count was certain that the Major had told him the truth,
+he carefully locked the trunk again, hung the key round his neck by a
+steel chain, and sat down quietly in the chimney corner.
+
+His meditations were interrupted by the gaoler. This time the man not
+only brought him bed furniture, far superior to what he had given him
+before, but he had added a carpet, a mirror, and even toilet utensils.
+
+A cloth was spread on a table, upon which he placed in a moment a very
+appetising dinner.
+
+"The Major begs me to apologize, sir," he said; "tomorrow he will send
+you what you asked for. In the meanwhile he has forwarded you some
+books."
+
+"Very good, my friend," the Count replied.
+
+"What is your name?"
+
+"La Grenade, sir."
+
+"Has the Governor selected you to wait on me?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"My friend, you appear to me a good fellow, here are three louis for
+you. I will give you the same amount every month if I am satisfied with
+your attention."
+
+"Had you given me nothing, sir," La Grenade replied, as he took the
+money, "it would not have prevented me from serving you with all the
+zeal of which I am capable, and if I receive these three louis, it is
+only because a poor devil like me has no right to refuse a present from
+so generous a gentleman as you. But, I repeat, sir, I am quite at your
+service, and you can employ me in whatever way you please."
+
+"Goodness!" the Count said, in surprise; "and yet I do not know you,
+as far as I am aware, La Grenade--whence, may I ask, comes this great
+devotion to my person?"
+
+"I am most willing to tell you, sir, if it interests you. I am a
+friend of M. Franįois Bouillot, to whom I am under certain obligations;
+he ordered me to serve and obey you in everything."
+
+"That good Bouillot," said the Count. "Very well, my friend, I shall
+not be ungrateful. I do not want you anymore at present."
+
+The gaoler put some logs on the fire, lit the lamp, and withdrew.
+
+"Well," said the Count, with a laugh, "Heaven forgive me! I believe
+that, though a prisoner in appearance, I am as much master of this
+castle as the governor, and that I can leave it without opposition on
+any day I like. What would the Cardinal think if he knew how his orders
+were executed?"
+
+He sat down to table, unfolded his napkin, and began dining with a good
+appetite.
+
+Things went on thus, in the way agreed on between the Governor and his
+prisoner.
+
+The arrival of Count de Barmont at the fortress had been a windfall for
+the Major, who, since he had received from the royal munificence the
+command of this castle as retiring pension, had not once before had an
+opportunity to derive any profit from the position that had been given
+him. Hence he promised to make a gold mine of his solitary prisoner;
+for the Isle of St. Marguerite, as we have already remarked, had not
+yet acquired the reputation which it merited at a later date as a State
+prison.
+
+The Count's room was furnished as well as it could be; everything he
+demanded in the shape of books was procured him, though he had to pay
+dearly for them, and he was even allowed to walk on the towers.
+
+The Count was happy--so far, at least, as the circumstances in which
+he found himself allowed him to be so: no one would have supposed,
+on seeing him work so assiduously at mathematics and navigation, for
+he applied himself most seriously to the completion of his maritime
+education, that this man nourished in his heart a thought of implacable
+vengeance, and that this thought was ever present to him.
+
+At the first blush, the resolution formed by the Count to allow himself
+to be incarcerated, while it was easy for him to remain free, may seem
+strange: but the Count was one of those men of granite whose thoughts
+are immutable, and who, when they have once formed a resolution, after
+calculating with the utmost coolness all the chances for and against,
+follow the road they have laid down for themselves, ever marching in a
+straight line without caring for the obstacles that arise at each step
+on their path and surmounting them, because they decided from the first
+that they would do so--characters that grow and are perfected in the
+struggle, and sooner or later reach the goal they have designed.
+
+The Count understood that any resistance to the Cardinal would result
+in his own utter ruin; and there was no lack of proofs to support this
+reasoning: by escaping from the guards who were taking him to prison,
+he would remain at liberty, it is true, but he would be exiled, obliged
+to quit France, and wander about in foreign parts alone, isolated,
+without resources, ever on the watch, forced to hide himself, and
+reduced to the impossibility of asking, that is to say, of obtaining
+the necessary information he required to avenge himself on the man
+who, by robbing him of the wife he loved, had at the same blow not
+only destroyed his career and fortune, but also eternally ruined his
+happiness.
+
+He was young, and could wait; vengeance is eaten cold, say the
+southerners--and the Count came from Languedoc. Besides, as he had said
+to Bouillot, in a moment of expansiveness, he wished to suffer, in
+order to kill within him every human feeling that still existed, and to
+find himself one day armed _cap-ā-pie_ to face his enemy.
+
+Cardinal Richelieu and Louis XIII. were both seriously ill. Their death
+would not fail to produce a change of reign in two, three, or four
+years at the most, and that catastrophe would arrive, one of whose
+consequences it is to produce a reaction, and consequently, to open to
+all the prisoners of the defunct Cardinal the dungeons to which he had
+condemned them.
+
+The Count was twenty-five years of age: hence time was his own, and the
+more so because, when restored to liberty, he would enter on all his
+rights, and as an enemy of Richelieu, be favourably regarded at Court,
+and, through the temporary credit he would enjoy, be in a condition to
+regain all the advantage he had lost as concerned his foe.
+
+Only energetically endowed men, who are sure of themselves, are capable
+of making such calculations, and obstinately pursuing a line of
+conduct so opposed to all logical combinations; but these men who thus
+resolutely enlist chance on their side, and reckon on it as a partner,
+always succeed in what they purpose doing, unless death suddenly cuts
+them short.
+
+Through the intercession of La Grenade, and the tacit connivance of the
+Governor, who closed his eyes with a charming inattention, the Count
+was not only cognizant with all that was going on outside, but also
+received letters from his friends, which he answered.
+
+One day, after reading a letter which la Grenade had given him when
+bringing in breakfast, a letter from the Duc de Bellegarde, which had
+reached him through Michael, for the worthy sailor had refused to leave
+his Commandant, and had turned fisherman at Antibes, with Bowline as
+his assistant, the Count sent a message to the Governor, requesting a
+few minutes' conversation with him.
+
+The Major knew that every visit he paid his prisoner was a profit to
+him, hence he hastened to his room.
+
+"Have you heard the news, sir?" the Count said at once on seeing him.
+
+"What news, my lord?" the Major asked, in amazement, for he knew
+nothing.
+
+In fact, placed as he was at the extreme frontier of the kingdom, news,
+no matter its importance, only reached him, so to speak, by accident.
+
+"The Cardinal Minister is dead, sir. I have just learned it from a sure
+hand."
+
+"Oh!" said the Major, clasping his hands, for this death might cause
+him the loss of his place.
+
+"And," the Count added, coldly, "His Majesty King Louis XIII. is at
+death's door."
+
+"Great heaven, what a misfortune!" exclaimed the Governor.
+
+"This misfortune may be fortunate for you, sir," the Count resumed.
+
+"Fortunate! When I am menaced with the loss of my command! Alas, my
+lord, what will become of me if I am turned out of here?"
+
+"That might easily, happen," said the Count. "You have, sir, always
+been a great friend of the defunct Cardinal, and known as such."
+
+"That is, unhappily, too true," the Major muttered, quite out of
+countenance, and recognizing the truth of this affirmation.
+
+"There is, I think, an advantageous mode of arranging matters."
+
+"What is it, my lord? Speak, I implore you!"
+
+"It is this: listen to me carefully--what I am going to say is very
+serious for you."
+
+"I am listening, my lord."
+
+"Here is a letter all ready written for the Duc de Bellegarde. You
+will start at once for Paris, passing through Toulon, where you will
+cash this draft for 2000 livres, to cover your expenses. The Duke is
+sincerely attached to me. For my sake he will receive you kindly: you
+will come to an understanding with him, and obey him in everything he
+orders."
+
+"Yes, yes, my lord."
+
+"And if within a month from this time at the latest--"
+
+"From this time at the latest--" the Governor repeated, panting with
+impatience.
+
+"You bring me here my full and entire--pardon, signed by H. M. Louis
+XIII.--"
+
+"What?" the Governor exclaimed, with a start of surprise.
+
+"I will at once pay you," the Count continued, coldly, "the sum of
+50,000 livres, to indemnify you for the loss my liberation must entail
+on you."
+
+"Fifty thousand livres!" the Major exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with
+greed.
+
+"Fifty thousand! yes, sir," the Count replied. "And, besides, I pledge
+myself, if you wish it, to get you confirmed in your command. Is this
+matter settled?"
+
+"But, my lord, how am I to manage at Paris?"
+
+"Follow the instructions the Duc de Bellegarde will give you."
+
+"What you ask of me is very difficult."
+
+"Not so difficult as you pretend to believe, sir; however, if this
+mission does not suit you--"
+
+"I did not say that, sir."
+
+"In a word, you can take it or leave it."
+
+"I take it, my lord--I take it. Great heaven!--fifty thousand livres!"
+
+"And you start?"
+
+"Tomorrow."
+
+"No, tonight."
+
+"Very good--tonight."
+
+"All right! Here are the letter and the draft. Oh! by the way, try to
+put yourself in communication with a fisherman at Antibes of the name
+of Michael."
+
+"I know him," the Major said, with a smile.
+
+"Indeed!" said the Count. "There would be no harm, either, in your
+trying to find the exempt who brought me here, one Franįois Bouillot."
+
+"I know where to find him," the Major replied, with the same meaning
+smile.
+
+"Very good! in that case, my dear Governor, I have nothing more to add,
+or any recommendations to make to you, beyond wishing you a pleasant
+journey."
+
+"It will be so, my lord, I pledge you my word."
+
+"It is true that it is a round sum--fifty thousand livres!"
+
+"I shall not forget the amount."
+
+After saying this the Major took leave of his prisoner, and retired,
+with a profusion of bows.
+
+"I believe that I am going to be free this time!" the Count exclaimed,
+so soon as he was alone--"Ah! my lord Duke, we are now about to fight
+with equal weapons!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+MAJOR DE L'OURSIČRE.
+
+
+Had it been possible for Count de Barmont to notice through the thick
+oak planks, lined with iron, that formed the door of his prison, the
+face of the governor on leaving him, he would not have chanted victory
+so loudly, or believed himself so near his deliverance.
+
+In fact, so soon as the Major had no longer cause to dread his
+prisoner's clear-sighted glance, his features immediately assumed an
+expression of cynical malice impossible to render; his half-closed eyes
+flashed with a gloomy fire beneath his grey eyelids and an ironical
+smile raised the corners of his pale thin lips.
+
+It was twilight; night was beginning to fall, and confound all objects,
+by burying them in a dark pall, which momentarily grew denser.
+
+The Major returned to his apartments, put a heavy cloak on his
+shoulders, pulled his hat over his eyes, and sent for his lieutenant.
+
+The latter presented himself at once.
+
+He was a man of about forty, with a delicate and intelligent face,
+whose features were imprinted with gentleness and even kindness.
+
+"I am starting this moment, sir," the governor said to him, "for
+Antibes, whither important business summons me; my absence will
+probably be prolonged for several days. While I remain absent from the
+castle, I invest you with the command; watch over its safety, and guard
+against any attempted escape on the part of the prisoner, though I
+doubt his making it. Such attempts, though they do not succeed, injure
+the reputation of a fortress, and the character of its governor."
+
+"I will watch with the greatest care, sir!"
+
+"I am certain of that, sir. Is there any fishing boat in the roads?
+I should prefer not using the boat belonging to the fortress, as the
+garrison is so weak."
+
+"The fishing boat you generally use, sir, and which is commanded by one
+Michael, I think, was alongside the quay hardly an hour ago, but he has
+probably started to fish outside the reef, as he usually does."
+
+"Hum," said the Major, "even were he still there, I should scruple at
+making the poor fellow lose so much time in putting me ashore. These
+fishermen are not rich, and every minute you take from them makes them
+lose a part of the trifling profit of a long and hard night's work."
+
+The officer bowed, apparently sharing his chief's philanthropic ideas,
+although his face evidenced the surprise which the expression of such
+sentiments by a man like the Major caused him.
+
+"Are there no other boats here?" the Major asked, affecting an air of
+indifference.
+
+"I beg your pardon, sir, a smuggling lugger is just about putting out
+to sea."
+
+"Very good; warn the master that I wish him to take me on board. Be
+good enough to make haste, sir, for I am in a hurry."
+
+The officer withdrew to carry out the order given him; the Major took
+some papers, doubtless important, from an iron casket, hid them under
+his coat, wrapped himself in his cloak, and left the castle, under the
+salute of the sentries who presented arms as he passed.
+
+"Well?" he asked the officer who came to meet him.
+
+"I have spoken to the master, sir, he awaits you," the other replied.
+
+"I thank you, sir; now, return to the castle, and watch carefully over
+its safety till my return."
+
+The officer took leave, and the Major proceeded toward a sort of small
+quay, where the lugger's yawl was waiting for him.
+
+So soon as the governor was aboard, the smuggler let go the hawser, and
+set sail.
+
+When the light vessel was well under weigh, the master respectfully
+walked up to the Major.
+
+"Where are we to steer?" he asked, as he doffed his woollen nightcap.
+
+"Ah, ah! is it you, Master Nicaud?" the governor said; for, accustomed
+to have dealings with the smugglers, he knew most of them by their
+names.
+
+"Myself, at your service, if I can do anything, Mr. Governor," the
+master answered politely.
+
+"Tell me," said the Major, "would you like to earn ten louis?"
+
+The sailor burst into a hearty laugh.
+
+"You are joking with me, of course, Mr. Governor," he said.
+
+"Not at all," the Major went on, "and the proof is, here they are,"
+he added, as he drew from his pocket a handful of gold, which he
+carelessly tossed in his hand; "I am therefore awaiting your answer."
+
+"Hang it, Mr. Governor, you are well aware that ten louis forms a very
+fine lump of money for a poor fellow like me; I am most willing to earn
+the canaries, what must I do for them?"
+
+"Well, a very simple thing! take me to St. Honorat, where I feel
+inclined for a stroll."
+
+"At this time of night?" the master remarked in surprise.
+
+The Major bit his lips on perceiving that he had made a foolish remark.
+
+"I am very fond of the picturesque, and wish to enjoy the effect of the
+convent ruins in the moonlight."
+
+"That is an idea like any other," the skipper answered; "and as you pay
+me, Mr. Governor, I can have no objection."
+
+"That is true. Then you will take me to Saint Honorat, land me in your
+boat, and stand off and on while waiting for me. Is that agreed?"
+
+"Perfectly."
+
+"Ah! I have a decided taste for solitude, and hence I must insist on
+none of your men landing on the island while I am there."
+
+"The whole crew shall remain on board, I promise you."
+
+"All right, I trust to you, here is the money."
+
+"Thanks," said the skipper, pocketing it; then he said to the steerer,
+"down with the helm," and added, "Hilloh, my lads, brace the sheets to
+larboard."
+
+The vessel quickly came up to the wind, and leaped over the waves in
+the direction of Saint Honorat, whose black outlines stood out on the
+horizon.
+
+It is but a short passage between Saint Marguerite and Saint Honorat,
+especially for such a clipper as the smuggling lugger.
+
+The vessel was soon off the island.
+
+The master lay to, and ordered a boat to be let down.
+
+"Mr. Governor," he said respectfully, doffing his cap, and stopping the
+governor, who was walking up and down in the stern; "we are all ready,
+and the boat waits for you."
+
+"Already! All the better," the latter answered.
+
+At the moment when he was going to get into the boat, the skipper
+arrested him.
+
+"Have you pistols?" he asked him.
+
+"Pistols?" he said as he turned round, "What for? is not this island
+deserted?"
+
+"Entirely."
+
+"Hence I can run no risk."
+
+"Not the slightest; hence that is not the reason why I asked you the
+question."
+
+"What is it then?"
+
+"Hang it, it is as black as in the fiend's oven; there is no moon, you
+cannot distinguish an object ten yards from you. How shall I know when
+you want to come on board again, unless you warn me by a signal?"
+
+"That is true; what had I better do?"
+
+"Here is a pistol, it is not loaded, but there is powder in the pan,
+and you can squib it."
+
+"Thanks," said the Major, taking the pistol, and thrusting it through
+his girdle.
+
+He got into the boat, which was dancing on the waves, and sat down in
+the stern sheets; four vigorous sailors bending over the oars made her
+fly through the water.
+
+"A pleasant trip," the skipper shouted.
+
+It appeared to the Major as if this wish had been uttered with a very
+marked ironical tone by Master Nicaud, but he attached no further
+importance to it, and turned his eyes toward land, which was gradually
+looming larger.
+
+Ere long the boat's bows grated on the sand; they had arrived.
+
+The Major went ashore, and after ordering the sailors to return aboard,
+he drew his cloak over his face, went off with long steps, and soon
+disappeared in the darkness.
+
+However, instead of obeying the injunction given them, three of the
+sailors landed in their turn, and followed the Major at a distance,
+while careful to keep themselves out of sight. The fourth, who remained
+to keep the boat, hid the latter behind a point, secured it to a
+projecting rock, and leaping ashore, fusil in hand, he remained on the
+watch with his eyes fixed on the interior of the island.
+
+The Major, in the meanwhile, continued to advance hurriedly in the
+direction of the ruins, whose imposing outline was already beginning
+to present itself to his eyes, borrowing from the surrounding gloom a
+still more imposing aspect.
+
+The Major, convinced that his orders had been punctually carried out,
+for he had no motive to distrust Master Nicaud, whom he had ever and
+under all circumstances found willing and faithful, walked on without
+turning his head, or even taking precautions, which he considered
+unnecessary, as he was far from suspecting that several men were
+following his footsteps, and watching his movements.
+
+It was easy to see from the deliberate manner in which he walked, and
+the facility with which he evaded obstacles and found his way in the
+darkness, that this was not the first time the Major had come to this
+spot, though it appeared so solitary and deserted.
+
+After entering the ruins, M. de l'Oursičre passed through a cloister,
+encumbered with shapeless fragments, and forcing his way between
+stones and brambles, he entered the chapel, a magnificent specimen of
+the purest Roman style, whose crumbling roof had fallen in under the
+incessant efforts of time, and only the choir and apse still remained
+intact amid broken columns and desecrated altars.
+
+The Major passed through the choir, and reached the apse, where he
+halted.
+
+After carefully examining for a moment the surrounding objects, as if
+he expected to find someone or something he did not perceive, he at
+length resolved to clap his hands thrice.
+
+At the same moment a man rose scarce two paces from him.
+
+This sudden apparition, though he fully expected it, made the Major
+start, and he fell back a step, laying his hand on his sword.
+
+"Ah, ah, my master," the stranger said, in a mocking voice, "pray do
+you take me for a spectre, that I cause you such terror?"
+
+The man was wrapped up in a thick cloak, whose folds concealed his
+shape, while a broad leafed plumed hat entirely covered his face and
+rendered him completely unrecognizable. Only the end of his cloak
+raised by the scabbard of a long rapier, proved that whoever the man
+might be, he had not come unarmed to this gloomy rendezvous.
+
+"I am at your orders, sir," the Major said, raising his hand to his
+hat, but without removing it.
+
+"And ready to serve me, no doubt," the stranger resumed.
+
+"That depends," the Major remarked roughly, "times are no longer the
+same."
+
+"Ah, ah," the stranger continued still sarcastically, "what news is
+there? I shall be delighted to learn it of you."
+
+"You know it as well as I do, sir."
+
+"No matter, tell me all the same what the great news is, that thus
+produces modifications in our relations which have hitherto been so
+amicable?"
+
+"It is useless to jeer thus, sir; I have served you, you have paid me,
+and we are quits."
+
+"Perhaps so, but go on. I presume you wish to propose a new bargain to
+me?"
+
+"I have nothing to propose; I have merely come because you expressed a
+desire to see me, that is all."
+
+"And your prisoner, are you still satisfied with him?"
+
+"More than ever. He is a charming gentleman, who does not at all
+deserve the melancholy fate thrust on him; I really feel an interest in
+him."
+
+"Confound it, that comes expensive, I did not take that interest into
+account, and I was wrong, I see."
+
+"What do you mean, sir?" the Major protested with an indignant air.
+
+"Nothing but what I say to you, my dear sir. Hang it, you amuse me with
+your scruples, after taking money from all parties during the last
+eighteen months; the Cardinal is dead and the King is on the point of
+following him, that is what you wished to tell me, is it not? A new
+reign is preparing, and it is probable that, if only through a spirit
+of contradiction, the new government will upset everything done by
+the one that preceded it, and that its first care will be to open the
+prison doors; you also wished to tell me that Count de Barmont, who
+possesses warm friends at court, who will not fail to employ their
+influence on his behalf, cannot fail to be set at liberty ere long.
+Confusion, I knew all that as well and even better than you, but what
+matter?"
+
+"How, what matter?"
+
+"Certainly, if Count de Barmont has devoted friends, he has implacable
+enemies; bear that in mind."
+
+"And the result will be?"
+
+"That in four days at the latest, you will receive an order signed by
+Louis XIII. himself."
+
+"To what effect?"
+
+"Oh! Good heaven, no great thing, except that Count de Barmont will
+be immediately transferred from St. Marguerite to the Bastille; and
+once there," he added in a hollow voice, which made the Major shudder
+involuntarily, "a man is eternally erased from the number of the living
+or only leaves it a corpse or a maniac. Do you comprehend me now?"
+
+"Yes, I understand you, sir; but who guarantees that the Count will not
+have escaped before the four days to which you refer?"
+
+"Oh! With a governor like yourself, Major, such an eventuality seems to
+me highly improbable."
+
+"Well, well," the Major observed, "very extraordinary tales are told
+about the escape of prisoners."
+
+"That is true; but another thing reassures me against this escape."
+
+"And what is that, sir?"
+
+"Merely that the Count himself declared that he would never consent to
+escape, and was not at all anxious about liberty."
+
+"Well, sir, that is the very thing that deceives you; it seems that
+he has now changed his opinion, and is eagerly soliciting through his
+friends to obtain his liberty."
+
+"Ah! Have we come to that point?" the stranger said, fixing on the
+Major a glance which flashed through the gloom.
+
+The governor bowed.
+
+There was a silence, during which no other sound was audible, save that
+of the heavy flight of the nocturnal birds in the ruins.
+
+"A truce to further chattering," the stranger resumed in a fierce
+voice; "how much do you ask to prevent the prisoner escaping until the
+king's order reaches you?"
+
+"Two hundred thousand livres," the Major answered roughly.
+
+"Was I not right in telling you that it would be expensive?" the
+stranger said with a grin.
+
+"Dear or not, that is my price, and I shall not bate it."
+
+"Very good, you shall have it."
+
+"When?"
+
+"Tomorrow."
+
+"That will be too late."
+
+"What?" the stranger asked haughtily.
+
+"I said it would be too late," the Major repeated imperturbably.
+
+"In that case, when must you have it?"
+
+"At once."
+
+"Do you fancy I carry 200,000 livres about me?"
+
+"I do not say that, but I can accompany you where you are going, and on
+reaching Antibes, we will say, you can pay me the amount."
+
+"That is a good plan."
+
+"Is it not?"
+
+"Yes, only there is an obstacle to its success."
+
+"I do not see one."
+
+"But I do."
+
+"What is it, sir?"
+
+"That, if I give you a meeting here, and come disguised and alone, I
+have probably an object."
+
+"Of course! You wish to remain incog."
+
+"You are full of penetration, my dear sir; and yet we can come to an
+understanding."
+
+"I do not see how, unless you consent to what I ask."
+
+"You are a judge of diamonds, since we have hitherto only bargained in
+them."
+
+"That is true, I am a tolerable judge of them."
+
+"Here is one that is worth 100,000 crowns, take it."
+
+And he offered a small case of black shagreen.
+
+The Major eagerly seized it.
+
+"But," he objected, "how can I be certain that you are not deceiving
+me?"
+
+"An affecting confession," the stranger observed laughingly.
+
+"Business is business, I risk my soul in serving you."
+
+"As for your soul, my dear sir, reassure yourself; in that quarter you
+have nothing to risk. But I will give you the satisfaction you desire."
+
+And taking a dark lanthorn from under his cloak, he let the light play
+on the diamond.
+
+The Major only required one glance to assure himself of the value of
+the rich reward offered him.
+
+"Are you satisfied?" the stranger asked, as he placed the lanthorn
+again under his cloak.
+
+"Here is the proof," the Major answered, as he concealed the box, and
+handed him a bundle of papers.
+
+"What is this?" the stranger inquired.
+
+"Papers of great importance for you, in the sense that they will tell
+you who the Count's friends are, and the means they can employ to
+restore him to liberty."
+
+"Bravo!" the stranger exclaimed, as he eagerly took the bundle of
+papers; "I no longer regret having paid so heavy a price for your
+assistance. Now we have discussed every point, I think?"
+
+"I think so too."
+
+"In that case, farewell! When I want you, I will let you know."
+
+"Are you going already?"
+
+"What the deuce would you have me do longer in this owl's nest? It is
+time for each of us to rejoin the persons waiting for us."
+
+And after giving the Major a slight wave of the hand, he turned away
+and disappeared behind the ruins of the high altar.
+
+At the same moment the stranger was suddenly seized by several men, so
+that not only was he unable to offer a useless resistance, but found
+himself bound and gagged before he had recovered from the surprise this
+attack had caused him.
+
+His silent aggressors then left him rolling on the ground with
+convulsive bounds of impotent rage, and disappeared in the darkness
+without paying any further attention to him.
+
+The Major, after a momentary hesitation, also resolved to leave the
+place, and slowly proceeded in the direction of the shore. On arriving
+within a certain distance, in obedience to skipper Nicaud's hint, he
+cocked his pistol and flashed the powder in the pan; then he continued
+to advance slowly.
+
+The boat had doubtless made haste to meet him, for at the same moment
+as the Major reached the shore, its bows ran into the sand.
+
+The governor stepped silently into it; twenty minutes after he
+found himself on board the lugger, where master Nicaud received him
+respectfully cap in hand.
+
+The boat was hauled up to the davits, sail was set on the lugger, and
+she stood out to sea before a fresh breeze.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+THE SEAGULL LUGGER.
+
+
+A lugger is a three mast vessel, with narrow lines aft and bulging
+bows; it has a foremast, mainmast, and a driver greatly inclined over
+the stern; its bowsprit is short; it carries large sails and at times
+topsails.
+
+From this description it is easy to see that luggers have the same rig,
+on a larger scale, as chasse-marées.
+
+Although the draft on water of these vessels is rather great aft, as
+they are generally quick and good sea boats, they are largely employed
+for smuggling purposes, in spite of the inconvenience of the large
+sails which have to be shifted with each tack.
+
+The Seagull was a vessel of ninety tons, neatly fitted up, and carrying
+four small iron guns of eight to the pound, which caused her to bear a
+greater resemblance with a corsair than a peaceful coaster.
+
+Still, in spite of a rather numerous crew, and her rakish appearance,
+during about a year since this vessel began frequenting the coast of
+Provence and the Lerins islands, not a word of harm had been said
+against her. Skipper Nicaud passed for an honest worthy man, although a
+little rough and quarrelsome,--faults, by the way, peculiar to nearly
+all sailors, and which in no way diminished the excellent reputation
+which the master of the Seagull enjoyed.
+
+So soon as Major de l'Oursičre had regained the lugger's deck, and the
+vessel had stood off, after taking a parting glance at St. Honorat,
+whose outline was gradually disappearing in the mist, he walked aft,
+seized the manrope and went down into the cabin.
+
+But on entering the cabin, which he supposed to be unoccupied, as
+the skipper was on deck, the Major with difficulty restrained an
+exclamation of surprise.
+
+There was a man in the cabin, seated at a table, and contently imbibing
+rum and water, while smoking an enormous pipe, and forming an aureole
+around him of bluish smoke.
+
+In this man the Major recognised Michael the Basque, the fisherman.
+
+After a moment's hesitation, the Major walked in, although the presence
+of this individual aboard the lugger was rather singular. Still there
+was nothing in the thing that should terrify the Major, who had no
+reason to suppose that Michael was hostile to him, or that he had
+anything to apprehend from him.
+
+At the noise made by the Major on entering the cabin, the sailor half
+turned to him, though without removing the pipe from his lips. After
+taking a pull at the glass he held in his right hand, he said in a
+bantering tone,--
+
+"Why, if I am not mistaken, it is our estimable governor of St.
+Marguerite; delighted to see you, I am sure, Major."
+
+"Why," the Major replied, in the same key, "it's that worthy fellow,
+Michael. By what chance do I find you here, when I had a right to
+suppose you engaged fishing, at this moment, Lord knows where?"
+
+"Ah!" said Michael, with a laugh; "There's as good fishing here
+as anywhere. Won't you take a seat, Major, or are you afraid of
+compromising your dignity by sitting down by the side of a poor fellow
+like me?"
+
+"You do not think that," the Major answered, as he seated himself.
+
+"Don't you smoke, eh?" Michael asked him.
+
+"No; that is a sailor's amusement."
+
+"It is so, Major. But I suppose you drink?"
+
+The Major held out a glass, which the sailor liberally filled.
+
+"Here's your health, Major. If I expected to meet anyone, it wasn't
+you, I assure you."
+
+"I thought so."
+
+"Indeed I didn't."
+
+"Well, to tell you the truth, I did not expect to meet you, either."
+
+"I am aware of that. You have come from St. Honorat."
+
+"Hang it all! You cannot be ignorant of that fact, since I find you
+here."
+
+"It was on your account, then, that we lost two hours in tacking
+between the islands, at the risk of running on to a reef, instead of
+attending to our business?"
+
+"What do you mean by business? Are you a smuggler at present?"
+
+"I am everything," Michael replied, laconically, emptying his glass.
+
+"But what the deuce are you doing here?" asked the Major.
+
+"What are you?" the sailor said, answering one question by another.
+
+"I--I?" the Major began, in embarrassment.
+
+"You hesitate!" Michael continued, banteringly. "Well, I will tell you,
+if you like."
+
+"You, Michael?"
+
+"Why not? You went to St. Honorat to admire the beauties of nature,"
+and he burst into a hearty laugh. "Is it not so?"
+
+"Yes. I have always passionately admired the picturesque. But that
+reminds me. I have forgotten to tell skipper Nicaud where I wish him to
+land me."
+
+And he made a movement, as if to rise.
+
+"It is unnecessary," the sailor said, obliging him to sit down again.
+
+"How? Unnecessary! On the contrary, I must do it, without further
+delay."
+
+"Still you have time, Major," the sailor said, peremptorily; "besides,
+I must speak with you first."
+
+"You speak with me?" the Major exclaimed, in stupefaction.
+
+"So it is, Major," the other replied, sarcastically. "I have very
+important matters to tell you. In your devil of a castle that is
+impossible, because you have there a number of soldiers and gaolers,
+who, at your slightest frown, interrupt the person addressing you, and
+throw him without ceremony into some hole, where they unscrupulously
+leave him to rot. That is discouraging, on my honour. But here it is
+far more agreeable, as I am not afraid that you will have me locked up
+--at least, not for the present. Hence, as the opportunity offers, I
+wish to take advantage of it to empty my budget, and tell you what I
+have on my heart."
+
+The Major felt internally anxious, without yet knowing positively what
+he had to fear, so extraordinary to him seemed this way of speaking
+on the part of a sailor, who had hitherto always displayed a servile
+politeness toward him. Still, he did not allow anything of this to be
+seen, but leaned carelessly over the table.
+
+"Very good, let us talk, since you feel so great an inclination for
+it, my good Michael; for I have time, as I am in no hurry."
+
+The sailor made his chair turn half round on its hind legs, and finding
+himself by this movement right facing M. de l'Oursičre, he examined him
+cunningly, for an instant, then drained the contents of his glass; and,
+after banging the empty glass on the table, he said,--
+
+"It is really a charming passion of yours, Major, to go thus at night
+to admire the ruins of the convent of St. Honorat in the darkness. It
+is, really, a charming passion, and a very profitable one, from what I
+have been able to learn."
+
+"What do you mean?" the Major asked, turning pale.
+
+"I mean what I say, nothing else! Do you believe in hazard, Major?"
+
+"Why--"
+
+"No more, I fancy, in that which makes me meet you here, than in the
+chance that makes you find on a desert island diamonds worth three
+hundred thousand livres; because the one thing is as impossible as the
+other?"
+
+This time the Major did not attempt to reply, for he felt he was caught
+out.
+
+Michael continued in the same sneering and bantering tone--
+
+"It is certainly ingenious to act as you do. A man soon grows rich by
+taking with both hands, but like all trades that are too good, this one
+is rather risky."
+
+"You insult me, scoundrel!" the Major stammered. "Take care what you
+say. If I call--"
+
+"Come, come," the sailor interrupted, with a coarse laugh; "I do not
+intend to notice the insult you cast in my teeth, for I have something
+else to do. As for calling out, just try it, and you will see what
+will happen."
+
+"That--that is treachery!"
+
+"Hang it! Are we not all more or less traitors? You are one--I am one;
+that is allowed: hence, believe me, it is useless to dwell any longer
+on this subject, and we had better revert to our business."
+
+"Speak," the Major muttered in a gloomy voice.
+
+"But, stay. I wish to give you a proof of frankness, and show you once
+for all how wrong you would be in keeping up, I will not say the least
+hope, but the slightest illusion as to what is going on here."
+
+Then, tapping the table smartly with the heel of his glass, he
+shouted,--
+
+"Come here, Nicaud, I want you."
+
+A heavy step resounded on the cabin stairs, and almost immediately
+Skipper Nicaud's cunning face was framed by the doorway.
+
+"What do you want, Michael?" he asked, without seeming even to notice
+the Major's presence.
+
+"Only a trifle, my lad," the sailor replied, pointing to the officer,
+who had turned pale, through the emotion he felt. "Only a simple
+question for the personal satisfaction of this gentleman."
+
+"Speak."
+
+"Who is the present commander of the Seagull lugger, in whose cabin we
+are now seated?"
+
+"Why, you, of course."
+
+"Then everyone aboard, yourself included, must obey me?"
+
+"Certainly; and without the slightest observation."
+
+"Very good. Then supposing, Nicaud, I were to order you to take the
+Major here present, fasten a couple of round shot to his feet, and
+throw him overboard, what would you do, my lad?"
+
+"What would I do?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Obey."
+
+"Without any observation?"
+
+Skipper Nicaud shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Shall I do it?" he asked, stretching out his huge fist towards the
+Major, who shuddered.
+
+"Not yet," Michael answered. "Go back on deck, but do not go far, as I
+shall probably want you soon."
+
+"Very good," said the master, and disappeared.
+
+"Are you now edified, Major?" Michael asked, turning carelessly to the
+horrified governor; "And are you not beginning to understand that I,
+poor chap as I am, compared with you, have you, temporarily, at any
+rate, completely in my power?"
+
+"I allow it," the Major stammered, in a faint and choking voice.
+
+"In that case, I believe we shall come to an understanding."
+
+"Come to the facts, sir, without further circumlocution."
+
+"Good!" Michael exclaimed, coarsely; "That's how I like to see you. In
+the first place, hand me the diamond which your accomplice gave you in
+the ruins."
+
+"Then you mean robbery. I had hoped better things of you," the Major
+answered, disdainfully.
+
+"Call it what you like, Major," the sailor said imperturbably; "the
+name does not alter the thing--give me the diamond."
+
+"No," the Major answered coldly, "the diamond is my fortune, and you
+shall only have it with my life."
+
+"That condition, illogical though it is, will not check me, I assure
+you, for I will kill you, if necessary, and then take the diamond," and
+he cocked a pistol.
+
+There was a silence.
+
+"Well, then, it is really this diamond you want?"
+
+"That and something else," said Michael.
+
+"I do not understand you."
+
+The sailor rose, placed the pistol to his chest, and said frowningly--
+
+"I will make you understand me."
+
+The Major felt he was lost, and that this man would kill him.
+
+"Stop!" he said.
+
+"Have you decided?"
+
+"Yes," he answered, in a voice choked with rage, and drawing the box
+from his bosom, he muttered, "Curse you, take it!"
+
+Michael returned the pistol to his belt, opened the box, and
+attentively examined the diamond.
+
+"It is the one," he said, as he closed the box again, and stowed it
+away.
+
+The unlucky officer followed all these movements with a lack-lustre eye.
+
+Michael resumed his seat, poured himself out a glass of rum, swallowed
+it at a draught, and then bending forward as he filled his pipe, said--
+
+"Now, let us talk."
+
+"What, talk?" asked the Major; "Have we not finished yet?"
+
+"Not yet--what a hurry you are in. At present we have said nothing."
+
+"What more do you want of me?"
+
+"That is meant for a reproach; but I allow for your ill temper, and
+owe you no grudge for it. It is a sad thing for a man who has been
+poor all his life to see himself robbed in a moment of a fortune which
+he had only just secured. Well, then, listen to me, Major," he said,
+assuming a consolatory air, and putting his elbows on the table, "it is
+easy for you to regain the fortune you have lost, and it only depends
+on yourself."
+
+The Major opened his eyes widely, not knowing whether to take what the
+sailor said to him seriously; but as he risked nothing by permitting an
+explanation, he prepared to give him the most earnest attention.
+
+The other continued--
+
+"No matter how I learned the fact--I know for certain, and the affair
+of the diamond is an undeniable proof of it--that, while on one hand,
+you feigned to feel the greatest interest for Count de Barmont, from
+whom you have drawn large sums, though I don't say it in reproach, by
+means of this feigned pity; on the other, you betray him without shame
+to his enemies, whom you make pay for it heavily. I merely mention this
+as a fact, and it is unnecessary to discuss it," Michael said, checking
+the Major, who was about to speak. "Now, I have made up my mind that,
+against wind and tide, and in spite of all the intrigues of his enemies
+to prevent it, the Count shall be free, and free through me. This is my
+plan: listen attentively to this, Mr. Governor, for the affair concerns
+you' more nearly than you seem to suppose. The Count has learnt the
+death of Cardinal de Richelieu, and I sent him the news in a letter
+from the Duc de Bellegarde. You see that I know everything, or nearly
+so: he at once requested to see you, and you granted his wish. What
+took place at your interview? Speak, and before all, be frank: in my
+turn, I will listen to you."
+
+"Of what use is it to repeat our conversation?" the Major asked,
+ironically.
+
+"For my private satisfaction," Michael answered, "and your special
+interest: do not be in too great a hurry to rejoice, Major, for you are
+not out of my hands yet. Believe me, you had better yield with a good
+grace, for your interest demands it."
+
+"My interest?" he repeated, in amazement.
+
+"Go on, Major; when the time arrives, be assured, I shall give you the
+explanation you desire."
+
+The old officer reflected for a moment: at last he decided to speak,
+resolved, if the opportunity offered itself hereafter, to make the
+sailor pay dearly for all his agony and humiliation.
+
+"The Count," he said, "engaged me to go to Paris, and negotiate with
+the Duc de Bellegarde, in order to bring him back his order of release,
+which the duke is certain to obtain from the king."
+
+"That is good. And when do you intend to start for Paris?"
+
+"I have started."
+
+"Ah! Ah!" said Michael, with a laugh. "It appears that you have stopped
+on the road, but that has nothing to do with the affair. Is that all?"
+
+"Nearly so."
+
+"Hum! then there is something else?"
+
+"Less than nothing."
+
+"No matter--out with it, for I am very curious. Did not the Count
+promise you something?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How much?"
+
+"Fifty thousand livres," the Major said, with repugnance.
+
+"Ah, ah, that is a tidy sum! And you were setting about earning it in
+a strange fashion; but I do not wish to refer to that any more. Do
+you wish to recover your diamond, and at the same time gain the fifty
+thousand livres promised by the Count? Speak, it depends on yourself."
+
+"You are jesting with me, and not speaking seriously."
+
+"Never, on the contrary, have I been more serious. On the Count's
+arrival at the castle you command, you were only a poor scrub of an
+officer of fortune, who, during his whole life, had been struggling
+against odds, and perched like an owl on an old wall, you were exposed
+on your isle to die as you had lived; that is to say, without a rap.
+During the last fifteen or eighteen months, things have completely
+changed with you. With what you have extorted from the Count, and what
+his enemies have given you, you have succeeded in getting together a
+very decent sum. Admitting that you were to receive the Count's fifty
+thousand livres, and I were to give you back the diamond, it would
+produce you a perfectly independent fortune, enabling you to retire
+when you pleased, and end your days in joy and abundance. Is not that
+your opinion?"
+
+"Certainly, but I shall not touch the 50,000 livres, and the diamond
+you have taken from me."
+
+"That is true, but," he added, "it is only dependent on yourself,
+Major, to have it again in your possession."
+
+"What must I do for that?"
+
+"That is what I was waiting for, Major; you consent then, to enter into
+an arrangement?"
+
+"I must; have I my free will at this moment?"
+
+"A man always has it when he likes, Major, you know that as well as I
+do; the only thing is, that as you are a man endowed with a strong dose
+of intelligence, and understand, that when a person has made a fortune
+by means more or less honourable, he must keep it at all hazards, you
+are beginning to lend a more attentive ear to the propositions which
+you guess I am preparing to make you, for you are at length convinced
+that it is to your interest to come to an understanding with me."
+
+"Suppose what you like, I do not care; but tell me your propositions,
+so that I may know whether my honour allows me to accept them or forces
+me to refuse them."
+
+Michael began laughing unceremoniously at this outburst, by which the
+Major sought to mask his capitulation.
+
+"Instead of going to Paris," he said, "you will simply return to Sainte
+Marguerite. You will go to the Count, tell him he is free, and then
+return with him on board the lugger, which will wait for you. When the
+Count and yourself are on board, the lugger will stand out to sea.
+Then I will restore you your diamond and pay you the amount agreed on;
+and as probably you will not care to resume the command of your castle
+after such a frolic, I will convey you, and your wealth wherever you
+like, in order to enjoy it without fear of being disturbed."
+
+"But," the Major observed, "what shall I tell the Count to persuade him
+that he is free by the King's orders?"
+
+"That does not concern me, it is your affair; but hang it all, my dear
+Major, you are unjust to yourself in raising any doubts as to the power
+of your imagination. Now what do you think of my proposition, and do
+you accept it?"
+
+"What security have I that you are not deceiving me, and that when I
+have fulfilled the conditions of the bargain you impose on me, you keep
+yours as strictly?"
+
+"The word of a honest man, sir, a word, which though that of a plain
+sailor, is worth that of a gentleman."
+
+"I believe you, sir," the Major answered, lowering his eyes before
+Michael's flashing glance.
+
+"Then, that is settled?"
+
+"Yes, it is."
+
+"All right. Hallo! Nicaud!" Michael shouted.
+
+The skipper arrived with a speed that proved he had not been far from
+the two speakers.
+
+"Here I am, Michael, what do you want?"
+
+"Where are we at this moment?" the sailor asked.
+
+"About five leagues to windward of Sainte Marguerite."
+
+"Very good! Keep on the same course till daybreak; at sunrise we will
+stand for the island, and anchor off it."
+
+"Very good, I understand."
+
+"Ah! Here is Mr. Governor, who I think, has great want of a little
+rest; can't you put him up somewhere where he will be able to sleep for
+two or three hours?"
+
+"Nothing easier, as I shall not turn in tonight, nor you, I suppose,
+my cabin is at the Major's service, if he will do me the honour of
+accepting it."
+
+The old officer was really worn out, not only by the fatigue of a long
+watch, but also by the emotions he had suffered from during the night.
+Certain that he had now no apprehensions about his safety, he heartily
+accepted the skipper's offer, and withdrew into the cabin, the door of
+which the other politely opened for him.
+
+The two sailors went up on deck again.
+
+"This time," said Michael, "I believe that we have manoeuvred cleverly,
+and that our plan will succeed."
+
+"I am beginning to be of your opinion; but I say, wasn't that old
+cormorant of a governor tough?"
+
+"Not very," Michael replied with a laugh, "besides, he had no choice;
+he was obliged to give in, whether he liked it or not."
+
+As had been arranged, the lugger stood off and on from the island
+during the whole night, at a distance of from four to five leagues from
+the coast.
+
+At sunrise, they steered directly for St. Marguerite.
+
+The breeze had lulled nearer shore, so that it occupied some time ere
+the light vessel reached the species of port serving as a landing place
+in front of the castle.
+
+The lugger drew too much water for it to be possible to run alongside
+the quay; hence it lay to a short distance off; and Nicaud had a boat
+lowered, while Michael went down into the cabin to warn the Major.
+
+The latter was awake; refreshed and rested by sleep, he was no longer
+the same man, he now regarded his position in its true light, and
+understood that the means offered him to escape from the disagreeable
+position in which he was placed by his double treachery, was more
+advantageous than otherwise for him.
+
+It was almost with a smile that he wished Michael good day, and he made
+no difficulty about accepting the hand the sailor offered to him.
+
+"Well," he asked him, "whereabouts are we, Michael?"
+
+"We have arrived, Major."
+
+"Already? Are you not afraid it is too early to go ashore?"
+
+"Not at all; it is nine o'clock."
+
+"So late? Hang it, it seems that I have slept soundly; in truth, I feel
+quite jolly this morning."
+
+"All the better, Major, that is a good sign; I suppose you remember our
+arrangements?"
+
+"Perfectly."
+
+"And you will play fairly with us?"
+
+"In my turn I pledge my honour to it, and I will keep it, whatever may
+happen."
+
+"Come, I am glad to hear you talk like that; I am beginning to alter my
+opinion about you."
+
+"Stuff," the Major remarked laughingly, "you do not know me yet."
+
+"You are aware that the boat is ready, it is only waiting for you to go
+ashore."
+
+"If that is the case, I will follow you, Michael; I am now as eager as
+you are to finish the affair."
+
+The Major went on deck and got into the boat, which was at once pushed
+off, and set out for the landing place.
+
+Michael's heart beat ready to burst, while he followed with an anxious
+eye, the light yawl which was rapidly leaving the lugger, and was
+already close in shore.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+FRANCE, FAREWELL!
+
+
+The Major had scarce landed at Sainte Marguerite, ere everything were
+in commotion in the fort.
+
+On leaving the isle on the previous evening, the governor had stated
+that he was going on a journey, and would be absent a week, perhaps two.
+
+The Lieutenant, intrusted with the command of the fort during his
+absence, eagerly hastened to meet him, curious to learn the motive for
+such a speedy return.
+
+The Major at first replied evasively, that news he had received on
+landing on the mainland, had necessitated the immediate interruption
+of his journey; and, while conversing thus, he entered the fort and
+proceeded to his apartments, followed by the Lieutenant whom he had
+invited to accompany him.
+
+"Sir," he said to him so soon as they were alone, "you will immediately
+choose from the garrison ten resolute men; and proceed with them on
+board the fishing vessel I noticed at anchor when I entered the fort.
+The missive I entrust to you is most important, and if you carry it out
+thoroughly, may have important results for you; it must be managed with
+the most profound secrecy, however, for it is a secret of state."
+
+The Lieutenant bowed gratefully, evidently flattered at the confidence
+his chief placed in him.
+
+The Major continued.
+
+"You will land on the coast a little below Antibes, and keep the boat,
+which you will use for your return; you will manage so as not to enter
+the town till nightfall, without attracting any attention, you will
+lodge your men as best you can without arousing suspicions, but so as
+to have them under hand at any moment. Tomorrow morning at ten o'clock,
+you will present yourself to the town commandant, hand him a letter I
+shall give you, and place yourself at his disposal. Have you understood
+me thoroughly, sir?"
+
+"Perfectly, Mr. Governor."
+
+"Before all, I recommend you the most utter discretion; remember that
+your fortune probably depends on the success of the mission."
+
+"I will obey you, Major, and I hope that you will only have compliments
+to pay me on my return."
+
+"I trust so too, sir, but make haste, for you must be gone in half an
+hour. During your preparations I will write the letter; it will be
+ready when you come to take leave again."
+
+The lieutenant, after bowing respectfully, retired with a joyous heart,
+not having the slightest suspicion of the treachery meditated by his
+chief, and went off at full speed to make all the preparations for his
+departure.
+
+The Major had under his orders a garrison of fifty men, commanded by
+three officers, a captain and two lieutenants.
+
+This captain, the next in rank to him, would doubtless have greatly
+impeded the success of the bold stroke he meditated, owing to the
+pretext he would have been obliged to invent, in order to account for
+the want of a release in writing for the Count.
+
+By sending him away, the Major had only to deal with two subalterns,
+ranking too low in the military scale to venture to make observations,
+or hesitate to accomplish his orders, the more so, because during
+the ten or twelve years M. de l'Oursičre had commanded Fort Sainte
+Marguerite, nothing in his conduct had led to the slightest painful
+suspicions about his honour.
+
+Forced by circumstances to betray his duty and quit his native land
+forever, which he knew he should never see again after this audacious
+scheme, the Major wished to leave nothing to chance, but turn his lost
+position to the greatest possible advantage. He hoped that the measures
+he had taken would protect him from any danger, when his treachery was
+eventually discovered.
+
+But, through a very laudable feeling of justice, especially on the part
+of such a man and under such circumstances, the Major desired alone to
+bear the burden of his infamous conduct and not to attract suspicion of
+complicity on his poor officers, whom duty compelled to obey him, in
+what they considered a portion of their military service.
+
+Hence he wrote to the governor of Antibes a very circumstantial letter,
+in which he narrated, without the slightest omission, the treason he
+meditated, and which would be carried out at the time when the governor
+read the strange missive; he explained the motives that obliged him to
+act as he was doing, while taking on himself all the responsibility of
+such a deed, and acquitting his officers and soldiers, not only of all
+co-operation, but of all cognisance, even indirect, of his project.
+
+These duties scrupulously accomplished--for it was impossible for the
+governor to be deceived as to the frankness of his confession, or
+to doubt them for a moment--the Major folded the letter, sealed it
+carefully, and laid it on the table while awaiting the return of his
+second in command.
+
+Now, as his vessels were burnt, M. de l'Oursičre could no longer
+retreat; he must push on and succeed; the certainty of certain ruin if
+his scheme were foiled, removed his last doubts, and restored him all
+the necessary calmness to act with the coolness demanded by the strange
+circumstances in which he found himself placed.
+
+The Captain entered.
+
+"Well?" the Major asked him.
+
+"I am ready to start, Mr. Governor; my soldiers are already on board
+the fishing boat, and we shall have left the island in ten minutes."
+
+"Here is the letter you have to deliver into the hands of the Governor
+of Antibes, sir; remember my instructions."
+
+"I will obey them in every point."
+
+"In that case, Heaven guard you! and good-bye," the Major said, as he
+rose.
+
+The officer saluted, and left the room.
+
+The Major watched through the open window of his room; he saw him leave
+the fort, go down to the shore, and on board the fishing vessel; the
+sail was hoisted, and ere long the boat started, slightly heeling over
+under the power of the breeze.
+
+"Ough!" said the Major, closing the window, with a sigh of
+relief--"that's one, now for the other."
+
+But, before aught else, the old officer shut himself up in his room,
+burnt certain papers, pocketed others, put some clothes in a small
+valise, as he did not wish to take all belonging to him, through fear
+of arousing suspicions, and carefully wrapping up in his cloak a small
+and very heavy iron casket, which, doubtless, contained his ready
+money, he assured himself by a glance around that everything was in
+order, opened the door again, and called.
+
+A soldier appeared.
+
+"Beg Mess. de Castaix and de Mircey to come here," he said, "as I wish
+to speak to them."
+
+They speedily arrived, greatly puzzled at this unexpected interview,
+for usually the Governor talked but little with his officers.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said to them, after returning their salute, "an order
+from the King caused me to return here in all haste. I have to take our
+prisoner, M. de Barmont, to Antibes, where your Captain has preceded
+me with a sufficient escort to prevent any attempt at escape on the
+part of the prisoner. I have acted thus because it is the King's good
+pleasure that this transference of the Count from one prison to another
+may have the appearance of a liberation, and I shall explain it in that
+sense to the prisoner, in order that he may have no suspicion of the
+new orders I have received. Until my return, which will be in two days
+at the least, you, Monsieur de Castaix, as senior officer, will assume
+the command of the fortress. I am pleased to believe, gentlemen, that I
+shall only have to praise the aptitude you will display in performing
+your duties during my absence."
+
+The two officers bowed: accustomed to the Cardinal's tortuous and
+mysterious policy, the Major's remarks did not at all surprise them,
+for, although His Eminence was dead, the event had not occurred so
+long that the King should have in any way modified his sullen mode of
+governing.
+
+"Be kind enough to give orders for the prisoner to be brought into my
+presence, while I inform him of his liberation," he added, with a
+mocking smile, whose strange meaning the officers did not comprehend.
+"You will have all the effects belonging to him placed in the boat of
+the smuggling lugger on board which I came back. Go, gentlemen."
+
+The officers withdrew.
+
+The Count was greatly surprised when La Grenade opened the door of his
+cell, and begged him to follow him, as the Governor wished to speak
+with the prisoner.
+
+He fancied the Major on the road to Paris, as had been arranged between
+them on the previous evening, and did not at all understand his
+presence at the fort after the solemn promise he had made.
+
+Another thing also caused him great surprise--ever since he had been a
+prisoner at Saint Marguerite the Governor had not once sent for him; on
+the contrary, he had always put himself out of the way by visiting his
+cell.
+
+But the thing that completely routed his ideas was La Grenade's
+recommendation to him, to place all his belongings in a trunk, and take
+the key.
+
+"Why this most unnecessary precaution?" the Count asked him.
+
+"No one ever knows what may happen, sir," the gaoler replied,
+cunningly; "it is as well to take precautions; and stay, if I were you
+I would put on my hat and take my cloak."
+
+And while speaking thus, the soldier actively helped him to pack his
+trunk.
+
+"There, that's done," he said, with a grin of satisfaction, when the
+Count had taken out the key; "here are your hat and cloak."
+
+"My hat, if you like," the young man remarked, laughingly, "but why
+my cloak? I run no risk of catching a pleurisy in my short walk to the
+Governor's presence."
+
+"Will you not take it?"
+
+"Certainly not."
+
+"Then I will; you'll see you will want it."
+
+The young gentleman shrugged his shoulders, without replying, and they
+left the room, the door of which the gaoler did not take the trouble to
+lock after him.
+
+The Major was walking up and down his room while awaiting the prisoner.
+La Grenade showed him in, laid the cloak on a chair, and withdrew.
+
+"Ah, ah!" said the Major, with a laugh--"I see that you suspected
+something."
+
+"I, Mr. Governor? What was it, if you please?"
+
+"Zounds! you appear to be dressed as if for a journey."
+
+"It is that ass of La Grenade, who, I know not for what reason, obliged
+me to put on my hat, and insisted on bringing my cloak here."
+
+"He was right."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"My lord, I have the honour to inform you that you are a free man."
+
+"I free!" the Count exclaimed, turning pale with joy and emotion.
+
+"The King has deigned to sign your liberation, and I received the
+orders on landing at Antibes."
+
+"At last!" the Count burst forth, but then immediately recovered
+himself. "Can you show me the order, sir?"
+
+"Excuse me, my lord, that is forbidden."
+
+"Ah! For what reason?"
+
+"It is a general precaution, sir."
+
+"In that case I will not press it: at least, you are permitted to tell
+me at whose request my liberty was granted me?"
+
+"I see no objection to that, sir--it was at the request of the Duc de
+Bellegarde."
+
+"The dear Duke!--a real friend!" the Count cried, in great emotion.
+
+The Major, with the utmost coolness, handed him a pen, and pointed to a
+blank space in the register.
+
+"Will you be kind enough, sir, to sign this register?"
+
+The Count hurriedly perused it, and saw that it was a species of
+certificate of the honourable way he had been treated during the period
+of his detention. He signed.
+
+"Now, sir, as I am free, for I presume I am so--" "Free as a bird, my
+lord."
+
+"In that case I can retire. I know not why, but during the last instant
+these thick, gloomy walls, seem to stifle me, and I shall not breathe
+at my ease till I feel myself in the open air."
+
+"I understand that, sir. I have made every preparation, and we will
+embark whenever you please."
+
+"_We?_" the Count asked, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, my lord, I shall accompany you."
+
+"For what reason, may I ask?"
+
+"To do you honour, sir--for no other reason."
+
+"Very good," he said, thoughtfully; "let us go, then; but I have some
+traps here."
+
+"They are already on board: come, sir."
+
+The Major took up his valise and casket, and left the room, followed by
+the Count.
+
+"Did I not tell you you would want your cloak?"
+
+La Grenade said to M. de Barmont, with a bow, as he passed--"Pleasant
+voyage to you, sir, and good luck."
+
+They went down to the waterside. During the walk, which was not very
+long, the Count's brow became more and more clouded; he fancied he
+could notice a certain sorrow on the faces of the officers and soldiers
+who were watching his departure--they whispered together, and pointed
+to the Count in anything but a reassuring way, and it gave him much
+cause for anxiety.
+
+Every now and then he took a side-glance at the Major, but he appeared
+calm, and had a smile on his face.
+
+They at length reached the boat, and the Major stepped aside to let the
+Count get into it first.
+
+As soon as they were both in, the boat was pushed off. During the whole
+passage from the shore to the lugger the Count and the Major remained
+silent.
+
+At length they came along side the little vessel, a rope was thrown to
+them, and they went up the side.
+
+The yawl was immediately hauled up, all sail was set, and the lugger
+stood out to sea.
+
+"Ah!" the Count exclaimed on perceiving Michael, "You are here, then I
+am saved!"
+
+"I hope so," the latter replied; "but come, my lord, we have matters to
+discuss."
+
+They went down into the cabin, followed by the Major.
+
+"There, now we can talk, Captain--the first thing is to settle our
+accounts."
+
+"Our accounts?" M. de Barmont repeated, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, let us proceed regularly. You promised this gentleman 50,000
+livres?"
+
+"Yes, I did."
+
+"And you authorize me to give them to him?"
+
+"Certainly."
+
+"Good; in that case he shall have them." Then, turning to the
+Major--"You have scrupulously kept your promises, and we will keep ours
+as loyally. Here, in the first place, is your diamond, which I give you
+back: I will hand you over the money in a moment. I suppose you no more
+wish to remain in France than we do--eh?"
+
+"I do not wish it the least in the world," the Major replied, delighted
+at having regained possession of his diamond.
+
+"Where would you like to be landed? Will England suit you, or do you
+prefer Italy?"
+
+"Well, I do not exactly know."
+
+"Do you like Spain better? 'Tis all the same to me."
+
+"Why not Portugal?"
+
+"Done for Portugal. We will drop you there in passing."
+
+The Count had listened with growing surprise to this conversation,
+which was incomprehensible to him.
+
+"What is the meaning of all this?" he at length asked.
+
+"It means, Captain," Michael distinctly answered, "that the King has
+not signed the pardon--that you are a prisoner, and would probably have
+remained so all your life had not this gentleman, luckily for you,
+consented to open the door."
+
+"Sir!" the Count exclaimed, making a movement toward the Major.
+
+Michael stopped him.
+
+"Do not be in a hurry to thank him," he said--"wait till he has told
+you what has occurred, and in what way he found himself obliged to set
+you at liberty, when he would probably have preferred not to do so."
+
+"Come, come!" said the Count, stamping his foot passionately--"Explain
+yourself! I understand nothing of all this. I wish to know
+everything--everything, I tell you!"
+
+"This man will tell you it, Captain; but he is afraid at present of the
+consequences of his confession, and that is why he hesitates to make
+it."
+
+M. de Barmont smiled disdainfully.
+
+"This man is beneath my contempt," he said; "whatever he may say I will
+not take the slightest vengeance on him--he is pardoned beforehand, I
+pledge him my word as a gentleman."
+
+"Now speak, Major," said Michael; "during that time I will go on deck
+again with Skipper Nicaud, or, if you prefer it, Bowline, who has
+played his part remarkably well throughout the affair."
+
+Michael left the cabin, and the two men remained alone.
+
+The Major understood that it was better to make a clean breast of it:
+hence he told the Count, without any equivocation, the full details of
+his treachery, and in what manner Michael had compelled him to save
+him, when, on the contrary, he was paid to ruin him.
+
+Although the name of the Duc de Peņaflor had not once been mentioned
+during the Major's narration, the Count divined that it was he alone
+who had dealt him all the blows he had felt so severely during the last
+eighteen months; however great his resolution might be, this depth
+of hatred, this Machiavellian vengeance terrified him; but in this
+extremely detailed narrative one point seemed to him obscure, and that
+was, how Michael had discovered the final machinations of his enemies,
+and done so opportunely enough to be able to foil them.
+
+All the questions the Count asked on this head the Major was unable to
+answer, for he was ignorant.
+
+"Well," asked the sailor, suddenly entering the cabin, "are you now
+informed, Captain?"
+
+"Yes," the latter replied, with a certain tinge of sadness, "except on
+one point."
+
+"What is it, Captain?"
+
+"I should like to know in what manner you detected this cleverly
+contrived plot."
+
+"Very simply, Captain, and I will tell you the whole affair in a couple
+of words. Bowline and I, without the Major suspecting it, followed him
+carefully into the ruins, while cautiously avoiding being seen; in this
+way no part of his conversation with the stranger escaped us. When the
+Major handed him the papers, and the stranger retired, I jumped at his
+throat, and, with Bowline's help, took the papers from him--"
+
+"Where are these papers?" the Count interrupted him eagerly.
+
+"I will give them to you, Captain."
+
+"Thanks, Michael; now go on."
+
+"Well, my story's finished; I gagged him to prevent him calling out,
+and after tying him up like a plug of tobacco to stop him running after
+us, I left him there and went away."
+
+"What, you went away, Michael, leaving the man thus gagged and bound on
+a desert isle?"
+
+"What would you have had me do with him, Captain?"
+
+"Oh, perhaps it would have been better to kill him, than leave him
+exposed to such a horrible punishment."
+
+"He had been so precious tender to you, hadn't he, Captain? Stuff! Pity
+for such a ferocious brute would be madness on your part; besides, the
+fiend always protects his creatures, you may be sure, and I am certain
+that he has escaped."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"Hang it, he didn't swim off to Saint Honorat; his people were probably
+concealed somewhere: tired of not seeing him return, they will have
+set out to seek him, and picked him up where I put him to bed; he will
+probably have got off with gnawing the bit for two or three hours."
+
+"Well, that is possible, Michael, and even probable. Where are you
+taking us?"
+
+"Zounds, you are the commander here, Captain; we will go wherever you
+please."
+
+"I will tell you, but first let us land the Major, for I fancy he
+wishes to be free of our company as much as we do of his."
+
+At this moment Bowline's voice was heard.
+
+"Hilloh, Michael," he shouted, "we have a large vessel to windward."
+
+"Confusion!" said the sailor, "Has she hoisted her colours?"
+
+"Yes; she is a Norwegian."
+
+"That will be a good opportunity for you, Major," said the Count.
+
+"Eh, helmsman," Michael shouted, without awaiting the Major's answer,
+"steer down to the Norwegian."
+
+The Major considered it useless to protest.
+
+Two hours later the vessels were within speaking distance: the
+stranger was bound for Helsingfors, and the captain consented to take
+the passenger offered him.
+
+The Major was consequently transported on board, with everything
+belonging to him.
+
+"Now, Captain," said Michael, when the boat had returned, "where shall
+we steer?"
+
+"Let us go to the islands," the Count answered sadly, "henceforth we
+shall only find a shelter there and taking a last glance at the coast
+of France, whose outline was beginning to fade away in the distant
+horizon," he muttered, with a sigh, and concealing his face sorrowfully
+in his hands, "Farewell, France!"
+
+In these two words was exhaled the last human feeling that remained at
+the bottom of the heart of this man who had been so tried by adversity,
+and who, vanquished by despair, was going to ask of the new world the
+vengeance which the old world so obstinately refused him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+THE BEGINNING OF THE ADVENTURE.
+
+
+The seventeenth century was a period of transition between the middle
+ages, that were exhaling their last sigh, and the modern era, which the
+great thinkers of the eighteenth century were destined to constitute so
+splendidly.
+
+Under the repeated blows of the implacable Cardinal de Richelieu,
+that gloomy filler of the unity of the despotic power of kings, an
+immense reaction had been effected in ideas. It was a silent reaction,
+that from the outset sapped the minister's work, and he was far from
+suspecting its causes or power. It was more especially in the latter
+half of the seventeenth century that the world offered a strange
+spectacle.
+
+At that period, the Spaniards, who were possessors, by the right of
+force, of the greater part of America, where they had multiplied
+colonies, were masters of the sea which the celebrated "broom of
+Holland" had not yet swept. The English navy was only beginning to
+be formed, and, in spite of the continuous efforts of Richelieu, the
+French navy was not in existence.
+
+Suddenly several adventurers sprang up, no one knew whence, who, alone,
+castaways of civilization, men of all classes, from the highest to
+the most humble, belonging to all nations, but chiefly to the French,
+perched themselves like vultures on an imperceptible islet in the
+Atlantic, and undertook to contend against the Spanish power, after
+declaring a merciless war on their private authority. Attacking the
+Spanish fleet with unheard-of audacity, and, like a gadfly fastened to
+a lion's flank, holding in check the Spanish Colossus, they compelled
+it to treat with them on equal terms, with no other help but their
+courage and their energetic will.
+
+In a few years their incredible exploits and audacious coups de main
+inspired the Spaniards with such terror, and acquired for themselves
+such a great and merited reputation, that the disinherited of fortune,
+the seekers of adventures, flocked from all parts of the world to the
+island that served them as a refuge, and their number was so enormously
+augmented, that they almost succeeded in forming themselves into a
+nationality by the sole force of their will, and their boldness. Let
+us say in a few words, who these men were, and what was the origin of
+their strange fortune.
+
+For this purpose we must return to the Spaniards.
+
+The latter, after their immense discoveries in the New World, had
+obtained from Pope Alexander VI. a bull which conceded to them the
+exclusive possession of the two Americas.
+
+Supported by this bull, and considering themselves the sole owners of
+the New World, the Spaniards tried to keep all other nations away from
+it, and began to treat as corsairs all the vessels they came across
+between the two tropics.
+
+Their maritime power, and the important part they played at that time
+on the American continent did not leave the governments the power of
+protesting, as they would have desired, against this odious tyranny.
+
+Then it happened that English and French outfitters, excited by the
+thirst of gain, and paying no heed to the Spanish pretensions, equipped
+vessels which they dispatched to the so-coveted rich regions, to cut
+off the Spanish transports, plunder the American coast, and fire the
+town.
+
+Treated as pirates, these bold sailors frankly accepted the position
+offered them, committed awful excesses wherever they landed, carried
+off rich spoil, and despising the law of nations, and not caring
+whether the Spaniards were at war or not with the countries to which
+they belonged, they attacked them wherever they met them.
+
+The Spaniards, entirely engaged with rich possessions in Mexico, Peru,
+and generally on the Continent, which were mines of inexhaustible
+wealth for them, had committed the fault of neglecting the Antilles,
+which stretch from the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of Maracaibo, and
+only established colonies in the four large islands of that archipelago.
+
+Hidden in bays behind the windings of the coast, the adventurers dashed
+suddenly at the Spanish vessels, carried them by boarding, and then
+returned ashore to share the plunder.
+
+The Spaniards, in spite of the great number of their vessels, and the
+active watch they kept up, could no longer traverse the Caribbean Sea,
+which the adventurers had selected as the scene of their exploits,
+without running the risk of obstinate engagements with men, whom the
+smallness and lightness of their vessels rendered almost intangible.
+
+This wandering life possessed such charms for the adventurers, who had
+assumed the characteristic name of filibusters or freebooters, that
+for a long time the idea did not occur to them of forming a permanent
+settlement among the islands, which they employed as a temporary
+retreat.
+
+Things were in this state when, in 1625, a cadet of Normandy, of the
+name of d'Esnambuc, to whom the law of entail left no hope of fortune,
+except what he could acquire by his industry or courage, fitted out at
+Dieppe a brigantine of about seventy tons, on board which he placed
+four guns and forty resolute men, and set out to chase the Spaniards
+and try to enrich himself by some good prize.
+
+On arriving at the Caymans, small islands situated between Cuba and
+Jamaica, he suddenly came across the track of a Spanish vessel bearing
+thirty-five guns and a crew of three hundred and fifty men; it was a
+critical situation for the corsair.
+
+D'Esnambuc, without giving the Spaniards time to look about them,
+steered down and attacked them. The action lasted for three hours with
+extraordinary obstinacy; the Dieppois defended themselves so well, that
+the Spaniards despairing of conquest and having lost one-half their
+crew, were the first to decline fighting, and shamefully fled from the
+small vessel.
+
+Still, the latter had suffered severely, and could be hardly kept above
+water, ten men had been killed, and the rest of the crew, being covered
+with wounds, were not worth much more.
+
+As the isle of Saint Kitts was no great distance off, d'Esnambuc
+reached it with much difficulty, and took refuge there to careen his
+vessel, and cure his wounded. Then calculating, that, for the success
+of his future expeditions, he required a sure retreat, he resolved to
+establish himself on this island.
+
+St. Kitts, which the Caribs called Liamuiga, is situated in 17 to 18
+degrees N. latitude and 65 W. longitude. It is 23 leagues W.N.W. of
+Antigua, and about 3 leagues to the N.W. of Guadeloupe, and is one of
+the Caribbean Islands.
+
+The general aspect of this island is remarkably beautiful, it is
+commanded by Mount Misery, an extinct volcano, three thousand five
+hundred feet high, which occupies the whole northwest part, and
+gradually descends in lower ranges, till it dies away on the South in
+the plains of the Basse terre.
+
+The barrenness of the mountains forms a striking contrast with the
+fertility of the plains.
+
+The valleys display a really extraordinary wealth of vegetation, while
+the mountains only offer to the eye a confused chaos of broken rocks,
+whose interstices are filled up with a clayey matter that checks all
+vegetation.
+
+Water is rare, and of a bad quality, for the few streams that descend
+from Mount Misery are strongly impregnated with saline particles, to
+which strangers find a difficulty in growing accustomed.
+
+But a precious thing for the filibusters, Saint Kitts possesses two
+magnificent ports, well sheltered and easy of defence, and its coasts
+are serrated with deep bays, where, in case of danger, their light
+vessels would easily find a shelter.
+
+D'Esnambuc, on landing, found several refugee Frenchmen who lived on
+good terms with the Caribs, and who not only received him with open
+arms, but joined him and selected him as their leader.
+
+By a singular chance, on the same day that the Dieppois landed at St.
+Kitts, English freebooters commanded by Captain Warner, who had also
+suffered in an engagement with the Spaniards, took refuge at another
+point in it.
+
+The corsairs of the two nations who could not be separated by any
+idea of conquest, agriculture, or commerce, and who pursued the same
+object, fighting the Spaniards, and establishing a refuge against the
+common enemy, easily came to an understanding; then, after dividing the
+island, they settled down side by side, and lived for a long time on
+excellent terms, which nothing disturbed.
+
+On one occasion they even combined their arms against the Caribs, who,
+alarmed by the progress of their new settlement, attempted to expel
+them.
+
+The filibusters made a horrible carnage among the Indians, and forced
+them to implore for mercy.
+
+A few months after, Warner and d'Esnambuc put out to sea again; the
+latter proceeded to Paris, the former to London, each for the purpose
+of soliciting the protection of his government for the rising colony.
+
+As usual, these men, who at the beginning had only sought a temporary
+refuge, now felt a desire to see the development of a settlement
+founded by themselves, and which in a short time had assumed a real
+importance.
+
+Cardinal de Richelieu, ever disposed to favour projects tending to
+augment the foreign power of France, received the filibuster with the
+greatest distinction, entered into his views, and formed a company,
+called "The Company of the Islands," in order to promote the interests
+of the colony.
+
+The capital was 45,000 livres, of which Richelieu subscribed for his
+part 10,000.
+
+D'Esnambuc was invested with the supreme command.
+
+Among the claims stipulated in his commission there is one which we
+must quote, owing to its strangeness, for it imposed on white men in
+America a temporary slavery harsher even than that of the Negro.
+
+This is the clause, whose sinister consequences we shall see developed
+during the course of this story.
+
+"No labourer intended for the colony will be allowed to embark, unless
+he engages to remain for three years in the service of the company,
+which will have the right to employ him on any task it thinks proper,
+without granting him the right to complain or break the contract
+entered into by him."
+
+These labourers were called Engagés or "thirty-six monthers," a polite
+way of getting rid of the word slave.
+
+Captain Warner, who had been more highly favoured, returned with a
+large body of colonists. Still the good understanding was kept up for
+some time between the two nations; but the English took advantage of
+the weakness of the French, who could not oppose their usurpations, to
+encroach on their rights, and formed a fresh settlement at Nevis, the
+next island to St. Kitts.
+
+Still d'Esnambuc did not despair of the fate of the colony. He
+proceeded again to France, and solicited of the Cardinal help in men
+and money, to repulse the undertakings of his troublesome neighbours.
+
+Richelieu granted his request.
+
+By his orders, Rear Admiral de Cussac arrived at St. Kitts, with six
+heavily armed ships; he surprised ten English vessels in the roads,
+captured three, sank three others, and put the rest to flight.
+
+The English made no further attempts to leave their boundaries, and
+peace was re-established.
+
+M. de Cussac, after supplying the colony with rum and provisions, set
+sail, and went to found a settlement on St. Eustache, an island four
+leagues N. W. of St. Kitts.
+
+The Spaniards, however, who, since the appearance of the filibusters in
+American waters, had suffered so greatly from their depredations, saw
+them with great alarm settling permanently on the West India islands.
+
+They understood of what importance it was to them not to allow fixed
+settlements in these regions, unless they wished to see their colonies
+destroyed and their commerce ruined.
+
+They consequently resolved to act vigorously against those fellows whom
+they regarded as pirates, and to utterly destroy their lurking places,
+which had already acquired formidable proportions.
+
+In consequence Admiral don Fernando de Toledo, whom the court of
+Madrid had placed at the head of a powerful fleet, sent in 1630 to
+Brazil to fight the Dutch, received orders to destroy in passing, the
+viper's nest formed by the filibusters at St. Kitts.
+
+The sudden apparition of this immense force off the island filled the
+inhabitants with stupor. The united resources of the English and French
+adventurers and their desperate courage were not sufficient to avert
+the danger that menaced them, and repulse so formidable an attack.
+
+After a desperate fight, in which a great number of filibusters,
+especially Frenchmen, were killed, the others got into their light
+canoes and fled to the adjacent isles of St. Bartholomew, Antigua, St.
+Martin, and Montserrat, or to any place in short where they hoped to
+find a temporary refuge.
+
+The English, we are unfortunately compelled to state, shamefully
+fled at the beginning of the action, and eventually asked leave to
+capitulate.
+
+One half of them were sent to England on board Spanish ships, while the
+rest engaged to evacuate the island as soon as possible,--a promise
+which was forgotten immediately after the departure of the Spanish
+fleet.
+
+This expedition was the only one that Spain seriously attempted against
+the filibusters.
+
+The French soon left the islands where they had sought refuge, and
+returned to St. Kitts, where they re-established themselves, though
+not without a quarrel with the English, who had taken advantage of the
+opportunity to seize their land, but whom they forced again beyond
+their old borders.
+
+It is a singular fact, which proves that the filibusters were not
+bandits and nameless men, as attempts have been made to brand them,
+that the inhabitants of St. Kitts were remarkable beyond all the
+other colonists for the gentleness and urbanity of their manners; the
+traditions of politeness left by the first Frenchmen who settled there,
+have been maintained even to the present day; in the eighteenth century
+it was called the Gentle Island, and there is a proverb in the Antilles
+to the effect, that "the nobility were at St. Kitts, the citizens at
+Guadeloupe, the soldiers at Martinique, and the peasants at Grenada."
+
+Things remained for a long time in the state we have just described;
+the filibusters, growing bolder and bolder through the Spanish
+cowardice, enlarged the scene of their exploits, and retaining a bitter
+memory of the sack of their island, felt a double hatred for the
+Spaniards, who had branded them with the name of Ladrones (robbers).
+They no longer displayed any moderation, and seated in the light canoes
+that composed their entire fleet, they watched for the rich transports
+from Mexico, dashed boldly aboard them, carried them, and returned to
+St. Kitts loaded with plunder.
+
+The colony prospered, the land was well cultivated, and the plantations
+were carefully made.
+
+For these men, the majority of whom had no hope left of ever returning
+to their native land, had performed their work with the feverish
+ardor of people who are creating for themselves a new nationality
+and preparing a last asylum, so that only a few years after the
+destruction of the colony by the Spaniards, St. Kitts had again become
+a flourishing colony, thanks in the first instance to its fertility and
+the energy and intelligence of its inhabitants, but above all to the
+incessant toil of the engagés of the company.
+
+We have now to explain what these poor fellows were and the fate they
+met with at the hands of the colonists.
+
+We have already stated that the company sent to the islands, men whom
+they had engaged for three years.
+
+They accepted anybody, workmen belonging to all trades, even surgeons
+who, persuading themselves that they were destined to carry on their
+own profession in the colonies, allowed themselves to be seduced by the
+fair promises which the company did not hesitate to lavish.
+
+But once their consent was given, that is to say, signed, the company
+regarded them as men belonging to it body and soul; and when they
+reached the colonies, agents _sold_ then for three years to the
+planters, at the rate of thirty or forty crowns a head, and did so in
+the broad daylight and in the governor's presence.
+
+They thus became real slaves, subject to the adventurers of the colony,
+and condemned to the rudest tasks.
+
+Hence, the poor wretches, so unworthily abused, beaten terribly and
+worn out by a fatigue under a deadly climate, generally succumbed ere
+they had attained the third year, which was to set them at liberty.
+
+This was carried so far that the masters at last attempted to prolong
+the stipulated slavery beyond three years. Toward the end of 1632, the
+colony of St. Kitts incurred great dangers, for the engagés whose time
+was up and whom their masters refused liberty, took up arms, organized
+a resistance, and prepared to attack the colonists with that energy of
+desperation which no force can resist. M. d'Esnambuc only succeeded in
+making them lay down their arms and arrest bloodshed by conceding their
+just demands.
+
+At a later date, when the sad condition in which the company's agents
+placed the engagés, became known in France, it became almost impossible
+for the latter to find volunteers; hence they were obliged to go about
+the roads and highways to enlist vagabonds whom they intoxicated and
+induced to sign, while in that condition, an engagement which it was
+impossible to break.
+
+We will dwell the more earnestly on this point, because during the
+course of our narrative, we shall have frequently to revert to the
+engagés. We will only add one word about the wretches whom England sent
+to the colonies under the same conditions.
+
+If the fate of the French engagés was frightful, that of the English,
+history proves to us, was horrible.
+
+They were treated with the most atrocious barbarity. They formed an
+engagement for seven years, and then, at the end of that time, when
+the moment to regain their liberty had at length arrived, they were
+intoxicated, and advantage was taken of their condition to make them
+sign a second engagement for the same period.
+
+Cromwell, after the sack of Drogheda, sold more than 30,000 Irish for
+Jamaica and Barbados.
+
+Nearly two thousand of these wretched succeeded in escaping on board a
+vessel, which, in their ignorance of navigation, they allowed to drift
+and the current cast it ashore at Saint Domingo. The poor fellows, not
+knowing where they were, and being without food or resources, all died
+of hunger. Their piled-up bones, bleached by time, remained for several
+years on Cape Tiburón, at a spot which was called Irish Bay on account
+of the terrible catastrophe, and still bears the name.
+
+The reader will pardon us for having entered into such lengthened
+details about the establishment of the filibusters of St. Kitts; but
+as it was on this little island that the terrible association of
+adventurers, whose history we have undertaken to tell, had its birth,
+it is necessary to make the reader fully acquainted with these facts,
+so that we might not be obliged to return to them hereafter. Now, we
+will resume our narrative to which the preceding chapters serve, so to
+speak, as a prologue, and leaping at one bound across the space that
+separates Sainte Marguerite from the Caribbean islands, we will proceed
+to St. Kitts a few months after the escape, for we dare not say the
+liberation, of Count Ludovic de Barmont Senectaire.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+THE COUNCIL OF THE FILIBUSTERS.
+
+
+Several years elapsed without producing any notable changes in the
+colony.
+
+The adventurers still continued, with the same obstinacy, their
+expeditions against the Spaniards; but as their expeditions were
+isolated, and had no sort of organization, the losses experienced by
+the Spaniards, though very great, were much less considerable than
+might be anticipated.
+
+About this time, a lugger manned by forty resolute men, and armed with
+four iron guns, anchored off St. Kitts, proudly displaying the French
+flag at its stern.
+
+This vessel brought to the colony a fresh contingent of brave
+adventurers.
+
+Immediately after their arrival, they landed, formed the acquaintance
+of the inhabitants, and testified a desire to settle on the island.
+
+The chief, to whom his comrades gave the name of Montbarts, and
+for whom they appeared to have an unbounded devotion, informed the
+colonists, that like them, he professed a profound hatred for the
+Spaniards, and that he was followed by two ships of that nation, which
+he had captured, and had given the prize masters orders to steer for
+St. Kitts.
+
+These good men were received with shouts of joy by the inhabitants, and
+Montbarts had a narrow escape from being carried in triumph.
+
+As he had announced, three or four days later two Spanish vessels
+anchored at St. Kitts. They bore at their stern the Castilian flag
+reversed, in sign of humiliation, while above it proudly fluttered the
+French ensign.
+
+There was one horrible circumstance, however, which chilled even the
+bravest with horror. These vessels bore at their bowsprit, and at their
+cross-jack, as well as at the main and foreyard, groups of corpses. By
+Montbarts order, the crews of the two vessels had been hung, without
+showing mercy even to a boy.
+
+The chief of the adventurers generously gave the cargo of the two ships
+to the colonists, only asking for sufficient land in return, on which
+to build a house.
+
+This request was at once granted; the newcomers then disarmed their
+lugger, came ashore, and began their installation.
+
+Montbarts was a young man of about seven or eight-and-twenty, with
+manly and marked features, and a fixed and piercing eye. The expression
+of his face was essentially sad, mocking, and cruel: a dead pallor;
+spread over his face, added, were it possible, a strangeness to his
+whole person. Tall and powerfully built, though supple and graceful,
+his gestures were elegant and noble, while his speech was soft, and
+the terms he employed were carefully chosen. He exercised a singular
+fascination over those who approached him, or whom accident brought
+into relation with him. They felt at once repulsed and attracted by
+this singular man, who seemed the only one of his species on the earth,
+and who, without appearing to be anxious for it, imposed his will upon
+all, gained obedience by a sign or a frown, and who only seemed to live
+when he was in the thick of a fight, when fires crossed above his head,
+forming him an aureole of flame, when corpses were piled up around him,
+when blood flowed beneath his feet, and when bullets whistled in his
+ears, and when he rushed drunk with powder and carnage upon the deck of
+a Spanish ship.
+
+Such was what was said of him by his comrades, and by those who had
+been struck by his singular countenance, and wished to know him: but
+beyond this moral and physical portrait of the man, it was impossible
+to obtain the slightest information as to his past life. Not one of the
+sailors who came with him knew the slightest episode of it, or, as was
+probable, refused to discover anything.
+
+Hence, when the colonists perceived that all their questions would
+remain unanswered, they gave up the useless task of asking them. They
+accepted Montbarts for what it pleased him to be, the more so, as his,
+former life not only did not concern them, but also interested them
+very slightly.
+
+The adventurer only remained ashore for the period strictly necessary
+to establish his household comfortably; then, one day, without warning
+anybody, he went on board his lugger with the crew he had brought
+with him, only leaving five or six men at St. Kitts to manage his
+plantation, and set sail. A month after, he returned, having in tow
+a richly laden Spanish vessel, with the crew hanging to the yards as
+before.
+
+Montbarts went on thus for a whole year, never remaining more than two
+or three days ashore, then going off, and returning with a prize with
+its entire crew suspended from the yards.
+
+Matters attained such a pitch, the audacity of the daring corsair was
+crowned with such success, that the rumour of it reached France. Then,
+the Dieppe adventurers, comprehending all the profit they might derive
+from this interloping war, fitted out vessels, and went to join the
+colonists of St. Kitts, for the purpose of organising a hunt of the
+Spaniards, and carrying it out on a grand scale.
+
+Filibusterism was about to enter on its second phase, and become a
+regular association.
+
+Montbarts had built his hatto, or principal residence, at the spot
+where the English afterwards formed Sandy-point battery.
+
+It was an excellently chosen position, militarily speaking, where, in
+case of attack, it was easy not only to act on the defensive, but also
+to repulse the enemy with serious loss.
+
+This hatto, built of trunks of trees, and covered with palm leaves,
+stood nearly at the extremity of a cape, whence the greater part of
+the island and the sea for a considerable distance on the right and
+left could be commanded. This cape, which was nearly precipitous,
+and one hundred and fifty feet high seawards, could only be reached
+by a narrow, rough path, intersected at regular distances by strong
+palisades, and wide, deep ditches, which had to be crossed on planks,
+that were easy to remove. Two four-pounder guns, placed in position at
+the head of the path guarded the approaches.
+
+This hatto was divided into four rather large rooms, furnished with a
+luxury and comfort rather singular in an out-of-the-way island like St.
+Kitts, but which was fully justified by the usual occupation of the
+owner, who merely required to take any furniture that suited him out of
+his prizes.
+
+A long pole, serving as a flagstaff, planted in front of the door of
+the hatto, displayed in the breeze a white ensign with a red jack in
+the right hand top corner. This flag was that of the corsairs, which
+Montbarts sometimes changed for one all black, having in its centre a
+death's head and crossbones, all white. This was an ill-omened flag,
+which, when hoisted at the peak, signified that the conquered had no
+hope of mercy to expect.
+
+It was a warm day towards the end of May, about eighteen months after
+Montbarts' arrival at St. Kitts. Several persons, stern looking and
+rough mannered, almost armed to the teeth, were conversing together as
+they followed the path that led from the plain to the platform on which
+Montbarts' hatto stood.
+
+It was nearly ten o'clock at night, and the sky was transparent and
+clear. Thousands of stars sparkled in the heavens, the moon profusely
+shed her white light, and the atmosphere was so pellucid, that the
+smallest objects were visible at a long distance. There was not a
+breath in the air, or a rustle among the leaves; the sea, calm as
+a mirror, died away with a soft and mysterious murmur on the sandy
+beach; the fireflies buzzed noisily, and at times dashed against the
+pedestrians, who contented themselves with driving them away with their
+hands, without, on that account, interrupting a conversation which
+seemed greatly to interest them.
+
+These men were five in number, and all in the prime of life. Their
+features were energetically marked, and their faces revealed audacity
+and resolution carried to the highest pitch. Their slightly curved
+shoulders, and the way in which they straddled their legs in walking,
+while swaying their arms, would have caused them to be recognised as
+sailors at the first glance, had not their dress sufficiently proved
+the fact.
+
+They were talking in English.
+
+"Stuff!" one of them was saying at the moment when we join in their
+conversation; "We must see. All that glistens is not gold, as they say
+down there. Besides, I wish for nothing better than to be mistaken,
+after all."
+
+"No matter," another replied; "in accordance with your laudable custom,
+you begin by expressing a doubt."
+
+"Not at all," the first speaker sharply interposed; "a fear, at the
+most."
+
+"Well," a third said; "we shall soon know what we have to expect, for
+here we are halfway up the path, thank Heaven!"
+
+"That demon of a Montbarts," the first went on, "has famously chosen
+his position. His hatto is impregnable, on my word as a man."
+
+"Yes. I do not think that the _gavachos_[1] will ever venture to
+attempt an escalade. But, by the way," he added suddenly, and halted;
+"suppose we are taking a useless walk, and Montbarts is not at home?"
+
+"I will answer for your finding him at home, Red Stocking, so set your
+mind at rest."
+
+"How do you know?" asked the man addressed by this singular name.
+
+"My God! Don't you see his flag hoisted at the masthead?"
+
+"That is true. I had not noticed it."
+
+"But now you see it, I suppose?"
+
+"I should be blind if I didn't."
+
+"Well," one of the filibusters said, who had hitherto maintained
+silence; "all this does not tell us why the meeting is to be held. Do
+you know anything about it, brother?"
+
+"No more than you," Red Stocking replied. "It is probably some daring
+project which Montbarts is meditating, and wishes us to take a part in."
+
+"But you know that he has not only summoned us, but also the principal
+French filibusters?"
+
+"In that case I am quite at sea," Red Stocking remarked. "However, it
+is of little consequence at present, as I presume we shall soon know
+what is wanted of us."
+
+"That is true, because we have arrived."
+
+In fact, they reached at this moment the head of the path, and found
+themselves on the platform exactly facing the hatto, whose door was
+open as if inviting them to enter.
+
+A very bright light poured through the doorway, and the sound of loud
+talking testified that there was a rather large gathering inside the
+hatto.
+
+The Englishmen continued to advance, and soon found themselves on the
+threshold.
+
+"Come in, brothers," Montbarts' harmonious voice was heard saying from
+the interior; "come in, we are waiting for you."
+
+They entered.
+
+Six or seven persons were assembled in the room, which they entered:
+they were the most renowned chiefs of the filibusters. Among them were
+Belle Tęte (handsome head), the ferocious native of Dieppe, who had
+murdered more than three hundred of his engagés, whom he accused of
+dying of indolence; Pierre le Grand, the Breton, who always boarded
+the Spanish galleons in the disguise of a female; Alexandre Bras de
+fer (iron arm), a young and apparently frail and delicate man, with
+effeminate features, but in reality endowed with a prodigious and
+herculean vigour, and destined hereafter to become one of the heroes of
+the buccaneering trade; Roc, surnamed the Brazilian, although born at
+Groningen, a town in East Friesland; and lastly, two old acquaintances
+of ours, Bowline and Michael the Basque, who both arrived at St. Kitts
+at the same time as Montbarts, and whose reputation as filibusters was
+already great.
+
+As for the English, who had just entered the hatto, five in number;
+they were Red Stocking, whose name was mentioned in the preceding
+conversation; Morgan, a young man hardly eighteen years of age, with
+a haughty face and aristocratic manners; Jean David, a Dutch sailor,
+settled in the eastern part of the island; Bartholomew, a Portuguese,
+also settled in the English colony; and lastly, William Drake, who had
+taken an oath never to attack the Spaniards, unless they were in the
+proportion of fifteen to one, so great was the contempt he professed
+for the proud nation.
+
+It was, as we see, a select gathering of all the great filibusters of
+the day.
+
+"You are welcome, brothers," said Montbarts; "I am glad to see you, for
+I was awaiting you impatiently. Here are pipes, tobacco, and spirits;
+smoke and drink," he added, pointing to a table placed in the centre
+of the room.
+
+The filibusters sat down, lighted pipes, and filled glasses.
+
+"Brothers," Montbarts resumed a moment later, "I have requested you to
+come to my hatto for two reasons of great importance, and of which the
+second necessarily depends on the first: are you prepared to listen to
+me?"
+
+"Speak, Montbarts," William Drake answered in the name of all; "you,
+whom the gavachos have surnamed the Exterminator, a name I envy you,
+brother, for you can only wish the good of filibustering."
+
+"That is the very subject," Montbarts answered.
+
+"I was sure of it, brother. Speak, we will listen to you religiously."
+
+They prepared to listen attentively. All these energetic men, who
+recognised no laws but those themselves had made, knew not what envy
+was, and were ready to discuss with the most entire good faith the
+proposals which they foresaw Montbarts desired to make to them.
+
+The latter reflected for a moment, and then spoke in a gentle voice,
+whose sympathetic accent soon captivated his audience.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "I will be brief, for you are picked men, with
+warm hearts and firm hands, with whom a long speech is not only
+useless, but also ridiculous Since my arrival at St. Kitts, I have
+been studying filibustering, its life, manners, and aspirations, and
+I have recognised with sorrow that the results do not justify its
+efforts. What are we doing? Nothing, or almost nothing. In spite of our
+indomitable courage, the Spaniards laugh at us; too weak, owing to
+our isolation, to inflict serious losses on them, we expend our energy
+in vain; we shed our blood, to take from them a few wretched vessels.
+It is not thus that matters ought to go on; this is not the vengeance
+which each of us dreamed of. What is the cause of our relative weakness
+toward our formidable enemy? The isolation, to which I alluded just
+now, and which will forever paralyze our efforts."
+
+"That is true," Red Stocking muttered.
+
+"But how can we alter it?" David asked.
+
+"Alas!" William Drake added, "The remedy is unfortunately impossible."
+
+"We are adventurers merely, and not a power," said Belle Tęte.
+
+Montbarts smiled--that pale, peculiar smile of his, which turned the
+heart cold.
+
+"You are mistaken, brothers," he said, "the remedy is found; if we
+like, we shall soon be a power."
+
+"Speak, speak, brother," all the adventurers exclaimed, springing up.
+
+"This is my plan, brothers," he continued; "we are here twelve, of all
+nations, but with one heart; the flower of filibusterism, I declare
+loudly; without fear of contradiction, for each of us has furnished
+proofs of it, and what proofs! Well, let us join and form a family;
+from our share of the prizes let us set aside a sum intended to form
+the common treasury, and while remaining at liberty to organize private
+expeditions, let us swear never to injure or thwart one another, to
+offer mutual help when needed, to labour with all our power to the
+ruin of Spain, and while keeping our association secret from our
+comrades and brothers, to combine our forces when the moment arrives to
+crush our implacable enemy at one blow. Such, brothers, is the first
+proposal I have to make to you. I await your answer."
+
+There was a momentary silence; the filibusters understood the
+importance of their brother's proposal, and the strength it would give
+them in the future. They exchanged glances, whispered together, and at
+length William Drake replied in the name of all--
+
+"Brother," he said, "you have just elucidated in a few words a question
+which has hitherto remained in obscurity. You have perfectly defined
+the cause of our weakness, by finding at the same time, as you promised
+us, not the remedy, but the means to render an association hitherto due
+to accident and almost useless, really formidable and useful: but this
+is not all. This association, to which you allude, requires a head to
+direct it, and ensure the success of its efforts at the right moment.
+It is therefore necessary that while our association remains secret,
+and, as it were, not in existence at all, in every point that does
+not affect its object, one of us should be appointed chief; a chief,
+the more powerful, because we shall be devoted to him, and aid him in
+working for the general good."
+
+"Is this really your opinion, brothers?" Montbarts asked. "Do you
+accept my proposal such as I made it, and as William Drake has modified
+it?"
+
+"We accept it so," the filibusters replied with one voice.
+
+"Very good. Still I think that this chief, to whom you refer, should
+be unanimously elected by us; that his authority may be taken from him
+at a meeting of the assembly by a majority of voices, if he do not
+strictly fulfil the conditions he has accepted; that, as guardian of
+the treasury, he must always be ready to furnish his accounts, and
+that his appointment should not exceed five years, unless renewed."
+
+"All that is fair," said Red Stocking; "no one can understand the
+general good better than you, brother."
+
+"Hence," David remarked, "we shall be partners; no quarrel, no
+dissension can well be possible among us."
+
+"While ostensibly retaining our free will and most complete
+independence," Belle Tęte reminded.
+
+"Yes," Montbarts replied.
+
+"Now, brothers," said Drake, rising, and doffing his cap, "listen to
+me: I, William Drake, swear on my faith and honour, the most complete
+devotion to the association of the Twelve, submitting myself beforehand
+to undergo the punishment my brothers may please to inflict on me, even
+death, if I were to betray the secret of the Association, and break my
+oath. Heaven help me!"
+
+After Drake each filibuster uttered the same oath in a firm voice, and
+with a solemn accent.
+
+They resumed their seats.
+
+"Brothers," said Montbarts, "what we have hitherto done is nothing;
+it is only the dawn of the new era which is about to open, for the
+glorious days of filibustering are beginning--twelve men like us,
+united by the same thought, must perform miracles."
+
+"We will do so, be assured, brother," Morgan said, as he carelessly
+picked his teeth with a gold pin.
+
+"Now, brothers, before I submit my second proposal to you, I believe we
+had better elect a president."
+
+"That is true," said David; "as the company is formed, let us elect the
+president."
+
+"One word first," said Michael the Basque, stepping into the centre of
+the circle.
+
+"Speak, brother."
+
+"I wish to add this: every member of the Association who falls into the
+hands of the gavachos shall be delivered by the other members, whatever
+perils they may have to incur in doing so."
+
+"We swear it!" the filibusters shouted enthusiastically.
+
+"Unless it is impossible," Morgan said.
+
+"Nothing is impossible for us," William Drake remarked, rudely.
+
+"That is true, brother. You are right, I was mistaken," Morgan replied,
+with a smile.
+
+"The society will be called that of The Twelve; only the death of
+a member will allow another to be admitted, and he must be chosen
+unanimously," Michael continued.
+
+"We swear it!" the filibusters exclaimed once more.
+
+"Now, brothers," said Bartholomew, "let us proceed to the election, by
+ballot, in order to protect the liberty of the vote."
+
+"There are pens, ink, and paper on that table, brothers," Montbarts
+remarked.
+
+"And here is my cap," Red Stocking said, with a laugh; "throw your
+votes into it."
+
+And, removing his beaver skin cap, the filibuster laid it on the ground
+in the middle of the room.
+
+Then the adventurers, with perfect order, rose one after the other, and
+in turn went to write their vote, which they deposited, after rolling
+up the paper, in Red Stocking's cap.
+
+Then all the adventurers returned to their seats:
+
+"Have we all voted?" David asked.
+
+"All!" the filibusters replied, in chorus.
+
+"Now, brother," Drake said to David, "since you hold the cap, proclaim
+the result."
+
+David questioned his comrades with a glance, and they bowed their heads
+in affirmation; then he took up the first roll that came to hand,
+opened it, and read--
+
+"Montbarts, the Exterminator."
+
+And passed on to a second.
+
+"Montbarts, the Exterminator," he read again.
+
+It was the same with the third, fourth, and so on up to the twelfth and
+last--all bore the words--
+
+"Montbarts, the Exterminator."
+
+It was a sinister challenge given to the Spanish nation, of whom this
+man was the most obstinate enemy.
+
+Montbarts rose, took off his hat, and bowed gracefully to his comrades.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "I thank you--the confidence you place in me shall
+not be disappointed."
+
+"Long live Montbarts, the Exterminator!" all the filibusters shouted,
+impulsively.
+
+The terrible company of The Twelve was created. Filibusterism then
+really became a formidable power.
+
+
+[Footnote 1: Term of contempt for the Spaniards.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+THE SECOND PROPOSAL.
+
+
+Montbarts allowed the enthusiasm of his comrades time to calm, and then
+spoke again.
+
+There was no change in his appearance; nothing in his face denoted
+the joy of triumph or of satisfied ambition; still the vote of his
+companions, by nominating him Chief of the filibusters, had rendered
+him in a moment a man more powerful than many a prince. His face was
+just as impassive, his voice equally firm.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "do you remember that I had a second proposal to
+make to you?"
+
+"That is true," William Drake replied--"speak, brother, we are
+listening to you."
+
+"The second proposal is as follows: still, I must request you before
+answering me to reflect fully on it. Your opinion must not be lightly
+expressed, for, I repeat to you, and dwell on it in order that you may
+thoroughly understand me, this proposition is most serious and grave.
+In a word, it is this:--I propose to you to abandon the island of St.
+Kitts, and choose another place of refuge, more convenient, and, above
+all, safer for you."
+
+The filibusters gazed at him in amazement.
+
+"I will explain," he said, stretching out his arms as if to request
+silence; "listen to me carefully, brothers, for what you are going to
+hear interests you all. Our refuge is badly chosen, and too remote from
+the centre of our expeditions; the difficulties we have to surmount in
+returning to it, in consequence of the currents that make our ships
+drift, and the contrary winds that oppose their speed, make us lose
+precious time. Now, the Caribbean archipelago is composed, of more
+than thirty islands, among which it is easy for us, it seems to me, to
+choose the one that suits us best. This idea which I bring before you
+today I have been revolving in my mind for a long time. I have not
+limited my expeditions to the pursuit of the gavachos. I have also made
+a voyage of discovery, and believe that I have found the spot suited
+for us."
+
+"Whereabouts is it, brother?" David asked, making himself spokesman for
+his companions.
+
+"I mean the island which the Spaniards call Hispaniola, and you know as
+St. Domingo."
+
+"But, brother," Bartholomew here interposed, "that island, which, I
+allow, is immense, and covered with magnificent forests, is inhabited
+by the Spaniards; if we went there it would be really placing ourselves
+in the wolf's throat."
+
+"I thought as you do before I had assured myself of the reality of the
+fact, but now I am certain of the contrary; not alone is the island
+only partially occupied by the gavachos, but we shall also find allies
+in the parties they have despised."
+
+"Allies!" the filibusters exclaimed, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, brothers, and in this wise.--When Don Fernando de Toledo attacked
+St. Kitts, the French who succeeded in escaping from the massacre
+took refuge on the adjacent islands, as you are aware; many of them
+went further, and reached St. Domingo, where they found a refuge.
+That was bold, was it not? But, I repeat to you, the Spaniards occupy
+scarce one-half of it. At the period of the discovery they left some
+horned cattle on the island; these beasts have propagated, and now
+exist in herds. The immense savannahs of St. Domingo are covered with
+innumerable herds of wild oxen which graze on all the uninhabited part;
+these herds, as you are aware, are a certain resource for revictualling
+our ships, and, moreover, the vicinity of the Spanish colonists offers
+us the means to satiate our hatred upon them; besides, our companions
+who have been established on the island for some years past wage an
+incessant and obstinate war upon them."
+
+"Yes, yes," said Belle Tęte, pensively; "I understand what you are
+saying to us, brother. You are right up to a certain point; but let us
+discuss the matter quietly and coolly, like serious men."
+
+"Speak," Montbarts replied; "each of us has the right to express his
+opinion when the common interest is concerned."
+
+"Brave though we are, and we may boast of it frankly, for, thank
+heaven, our courage is well known, we are not strong enough for all
+that--at present at least--to measure ourselves against the Spanish
+power on land; there is a difference between capturing a ship and
+facing an entire population. You allow that, I suppose, brother?"
+
+"Certainly I do."
+
+"Very good, I will go on. It is evident that the Spaniards, who up to
+the present have probably not noticed them, or, at any rate, owing
+to their small number and slight importance, have disdained the
+adventurers established on the desert part of the island; when they see
+that this establishment, which they supposed to be temporary, and due
+to the caprice of our brothers, is becoming permanent, and assuming the
+menacing proportions of a colony, they will refuse to permit it--what
+will happen then? This: they will collect all their forces, assail us
+suddenly, destroy us after a desperate resistance, and ruin at one
+blow, not only our new colony, but also our hopes of vengeance."
+
+These remarks of Belle Tęte, which displayed close logic, produced a
+certain effect on the filibusters, who began exchanging meaning looks;
+but Montbarts did not allow the spirit of opposition time to spread,
+and at once went on to say--
+
+"You would be right, brother, if, as you suppose, we were to place our
+principal establishment on St. Domingo; it is evident that we should be
+crushed by numbers, and forced to retire disgracefully; but a man would
+know me badly if he supposed that I, who have an implacable hatred of
+these infamous gavachos, could possibly conceive such a plan for a
+moment, if I had not previously assured myself about its success, and
+the profit we shall derive from it."
+
+"Come, brother," Drake said, "explain yourself clearly; we are
+listening to you with the most earnest attention."
+
+"To the northwest of St. Domingo, and only separated from it by a
+narrow channel, there is an island about eight leagues long, surrounded
+by rocks called the iron coast, which render any landing impossible,
+except at the south, where there is a fine port, whose bottom is
+composed of sand, and where vessels are sheltered from all winds,
+which, besides, are not violent in those parts; there are also a few
+sandy bays scattered along the coast, but they are only approachable
+by canoes. This island is called Tortuga or Tortoise Island, owing
+to its shape, which slightly resembles that animal. Here it is,
+brothers, I propose that we should form our principal establishment,
+or, if you prefer it, our headquarters. The Port of Peace, and Port
+Margot, situated facing Tortoise Isle, will enable us to keep up an
+easy communication with St. Domingo: sheltered in our island, as in
+an impregnable fortress, we shall brave the efforts of the whole
+Spanish power. But I do not wish to deceive you, and must tell you
+everything; the Spaniards are on their guard; they have foreseen that
+if buccaneering goes on, that is to say, if they do not succeed in
+destroying us, the excellent position of that island would not escape
+our notice, and that we should probably attempt to seize on it: hence
+they have had it occupied by twenty-five soldiers, commanded by an
+alférez. Do not smile, brothers; although the garrison is small, it
+is sufficient, owing to the manner in which it is entrenched, and the
+difficulties a landing offers; and then, too, it can easily obtain
+reinforcements from the Grande Terre in a very short time. I have often
+landed in disguise on Tortoise Isle. I have inspected it with the
+greatest care, and hence you can attach the most entire confidence to
+the information I am giving you."
+
+"Montbarts is right," Yoc, the Brazilian, said at this moment; "I know
+Tortoise Isle, and, like him, I am persuaded that island will offer us
+a far surer and more advantageous shelter than St. Kitts."
+
+"Now, brothers," Montbarts resumed, "reflect, and answer yes or no. If
+you accept my offer I will prepare to realize my plan by seizing the
+island; if you refuse, I will never mention it again."
+
+And, in order by his absence to give more liberty for discussion, the
+adventurer left the room, and proceeded to the terrace in front of the
+hatto, where he began walking up and down, apparently indifferent to
+what was going on, but in his heart very anxious as to the result of
+the deliberation.
+
+He had only been walking up and down for a few minutes, when a slight
+whistle was audible a short distance off, so gently modulated, that
+it needed all the sharpness of hearing with which the filibuster was
+endowed, to catch it.
+
+He walked rapidly in the direction where this species of signal had
+been heard. At the same moment, a man lying on the ground, and so
+thoroughly concealed by the gloom that it was impossible to perceive
+him unless he was known to be there, raised his head, and displayed
+in the white moonbeams the copper face, and delicate and intelligent
+features of a Carib.
+
+"Omopoua?" the filibuster said.
+
+"I am waiting!" the Indian laconically answered, as he sprang up at one
+bound, and stood erect before him.
+
+Omopoua, that is to say, the leaper, was a young man of twenty-five
+years of age at the most, of a tall and admirably proportioned stature,
+whose skin had the gilded shade of Florentine bronze. He was naked,
+with the exception of thin canvas drawers, fastening round his hips,
+and falling nearly to his knees. His long, black hair, parted in the
+centre of his head, fell on his shoulders on either side. He had no
+other weapons but a long knife, and a bayonet passed through a cowhide
+belt.
+
+"Has the man arrived?" Montbarts asked.
+
+"He has."
+
+"Has Omopoua seen him?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Does he fancy himself recognised?"
+
+"Only the eye of a determined foe could guess him beneath his disguise."
+
+"That is well! My brother will conduct me to him?"
+
+"I will lead the pale chief."
+
+"Good! Where shall I find Omopoua an hour after sunrise?"
+
+"Omopoua will be in his hut."
+
+"I will come there;" and, hearing several voices calling him from the
+interior of the hatto, he said, "I reckon on the Indian's promise."
+
+"Yes, if the chief keeps his."
+
+"I shall keep it."
+
+After exchanging a last meaning look with the filibuster, the
+Carib glided down the face of the cliff, and disappeared almost
+instantaneously.
+
+Montbarts remained for a moment motionless, plunged in deep thought;
+then, giving a sudden start, and passing his hand over his forehead, as
+if to efface any sign of emotion, he hastily re-entered the hatto.
+
+The deliberation was ended. The filibusters had returned to their
+seats, and Montbarts went back to his, and waited with affected
+indifference, till one of his comrades thought proper to speak.
+
+"Brother," David then said, "we have thoroughly discussed your
+proposal. My comrades authorize me to tell you that they accept it, but
+they merely desire to know what means you intend to employ in carrying
+out your plan, and insuring its success?"
+
+"Brothers, I thank you," Montbarts replied, "for giving me your
+consent. As to the means I intend to employ in seizing Tortoise Isle,
+permit me, for the present, to keep them secret, as the success of the
+expedition depends on it. You need only be told that I do not wish to
+compromise the interests of anyone, and that I intend to run all the
+risk alone."
+
+"You do not understand me, brother, or else I have explained myself
+badly," David replied. "If I asked you in what way you proposed to act,
+I was not at all impelled by a puerile curiosity, but because, in so
+serious a question, which interests the entire association, we have
+resolved to accompany you, and to die or conquer with you. We wish
+to share the honour of the triumph, or assume a part of the defeat."
+Montbarts felt involuntarily affected by these generous words, so nobly
+pronounced; and by a spontaneous movement he held out his hands to the
+filibusters, who pressed them energetically, and said,--
+
+"You are right, brothers. We must all share in the great work which, I
+hope, will at length place us in the position to achieve great things.
+We will all go to Tortoise Island. But I will ask you--and believe me
+that I am not speaking thus through any ambitious motive--to let me
+conduct the expedition."
+
+"Are you not our chief?" the filibusters exclaimed.
+
+"We will obey you according to the laws of buccaneering," David added.
+"The man who conceives an expedition has alone the right to command. We
+will be your soldiers."
+
+"That is settled, brothers. Tomorrow morning, at eleven, after
+attending the sale of the new engagés, who arrived from France the
+day before yesterday, I will go to the governor, and tell him I am
+preparing a fresh expedition, and enlistment can begin at once."
+
+"Not one of us will be missing at the rendezvous," said Belle Tęte. "I
+must buy two engagés to fill the places of two idlers, who have just
+died of sheer idleness."
+
+"That is settled," said Bartholomew. "At eleven o'clock we will all be
+at Basse Terre."
+
+They then rose and prepared to retire: for the whole night had passed
+away in these discussions, and the sun, although still beneath the
+horizon, was already beginning to tinge it with a purple hue, that
+testified it would soon appear.
+
+"By the way," Montbarts said, with an indifferent air to Morgan, whom
+with the rest he accompanied to the head of the path; "if you are not
+greatly attached to your Carib--I forget how you call him--"
+
+"Omopoua?"
+
+"Ah! yes. Well, I was saying that if you were not indisposed to part
+with him, I should feel obliged by your letting me have him."
+
+"Do you want him?"
+
+"Yes. I think he will be useful to me."
+
+"In that case, take him, brother. I yield him to you, although he is a
+good workman, and I am satisfied with him."
+
+"Thanks, brother. What value do you set on him?"
+
+"Well, I will not bargain with you, brother. I saw a rather handsome
+fusil in your house. Give it to me, and take the Indian, and we shall
+be quits."
+
+"Wait a minute, then."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because I will give you the fusil at once. You will send me the
+Indian; or, if I have time, I will call and fetch him during the day."
+
+The filibuster returned to the hatto, took down the fusil, and carried
+it to Morgan, who threw it on his shoulder with a movement of joy.
+
+"Well, that is settled," he said. "Good-bye, for the present."
+
+"We shall meet again soon," Montbarts answered, and they separated.
+
+Montbarts threw a thick cloak over his shoulders, put on a broad
+brimmed hat, whose brim fell over his face, and concealed his features,
+and then turning to Michael, said:
+
+"Mate, an important matter obliges me to go to Basse Terre; you will
+go to our governor, the Chevalier de Fontenay, and without entering
+into any details, and being very careful not to betray our secret, you
+will simply warn him that I am preparing a fresh expedition."
+
+"Very good, mate, I will go," Michael answered.
+
+"You will then examine the lugger, and occupy yourself with Bowline, in
+getting her ready to put to sea."
+
+After giving these instructions to the two sailors, Montbarts left the
+house, and descended the cliff.
+
+The Chevalier de Fontenay, like M. d'Esnambuc, whom he had succeeded
+two years before as governor of St. Kitts, was a cadet of Normandy, who
+had come to the isles to try his fortune, and before becoming governor
+had joined in many buccaneering expeditions. He was exactly the man
+they wanted; he left them at liberty to act as they pleased, never
+asked them for any accounts, understood at half a word, and contented
+himself with raising a tithe on the prizes--a voluntary tribute which
+the adventurers paid him in return for the protection he was supposed
+to give them in the king's name by legitimating their position.
+
+The sun had risen, a fresh sea breeze caused the leaves to rustle, and
+the birds were singing on the branches. Montbarts walked on hurriedly,
+looking neither to the right nor left, and apparently plunged in deep
+thought.
+
+On reaching the entrance of the village of Basse Terre, instead of
+entering it, he skirted it, and going along a narrow path that crossed
+a tobacco plantation, he went toward the interior of the island,
+proceeding in the direction of Mount Misery, whose rise was already
+perceptible beneath his feet.
+
+After a very long walk, the filibuster at length stopped at the
+entrance of a dry gorge, on one of the slopes of which stood a wretched
+hut of tree trunks, poorly covered with palm leaves. A man was standing
+in the doorway of this cabin: on perceiving Montbarts he uttered a cry
+of joy and rushed toward him, running over the rocks with the rapidity
+and lightness of a deer.
+
+This man was Omopoua, the Carib; on coming up to the filibuster, he
+fell on his knees.
+
+"Rise," the adventurer said to him, "what have you to thank me for?"
+
+"My master told me an hour ago that I no longer belonged to him, but to
+you."
+
+"Well, did I not promise it to you?"
+
+"That is true, but the white men always promise, and never keep their
+word."
+
+"You see a proof of the contrary; come, get up, your master has sold
+you to me, it is true, but I give you your liberty; you have now but
+one master, God."
+
+The Indian rose, laid his hand on his chest, tottered, his features
+were contracted, and for a moment he seemed suffering from a violent
+internal emotion, which in spite of all the power he had over himself,
+he could not succeed in mastering.
+
+Montbarts, calm and gloomy, examined him attentively, while fixing a
+scrutinizing glance upon him.
+
+At length the Indian succeeded in speaking, though his voice issued
+from his throat like a whistle.
+
+"Omopoua was a renowned chief among his people," he said; "a Spaniard
+had degraded him by making him a slave, through treachery, and selling
+him like a beast of burden: you restore Omopoua to the rank from which
+he ought never to have descended. It is well, you lose a bad slave,
+but gain a devoted friend; were it not for you I should be dead--my
+life belongs to you."
+
+Montbarts offered the Carib his hand, which he kissed respectfully.
+
+"Do you intend to remain at Saint Kitts, or would you like to return to
+Haiti?"
+
+"The family of Omopoua," the Indian replied, "and what remains of his
+people, are wandering about the savannahs of Bohis, but where you go, I
+will go."
+
+"Very good, you shall follow me; now lead me to the man, you know whom."
+
+"At once."
+
+"Are you certain he is a Spaniard?"
+
+"I am."
+
+"You do not know for what motives he has entered the island?"
+
+"I do not."
+
+"And at what place has he sought shelter?"
+
+"With an Englishman."
+
+"In the English colony there?"
+
+"No; at Basse Terre."
+
+"All the better. What is the Englishman's name?"
+
+"Captain William Drake."
+
+"Captain Drake!" Montbarts exclaimed with surprise, "It is impossible."
+
+"It is so."
+
+"In that case, the Captain does not know him."
+
+"No; the man entered his house and asked for hospitality, and the
+Captain could not refuse it to him."
+
+"That is true; go up to my hatto, take clothes, a fusil--in short, what
+weapons you like, and come to me at Captain Drake's; if I am no longer
+there, you will find me on the port; begone."
+
+Montbarts then turned back, and proceeded toward Basse Terre, while the
+Carib went towards the hatto as the bird flies, according to Indian
+custom.
+
+Basse Terre was the entrepôt, or to speak more correctly, the
+headquarters of the French colony: at the period when our story is laid
+it was only a miserable township, built without order, according to the
+caprice or convenience of each owner, an agglomeration of huts, rather
+than a town, but producing at a distance a most picturesque effect
+through this very chaos of houses of all shapes and sizes, thus grouped
+along the seashore, in front of magnificent roads, filled with vessels
+swinging at their anchors, and constantly furrowed by an infinite
+number of canoes.
+
+A battery of six guns, built on an advanced point, defended the
+entrance of the roads.
+
+But in this town, apparently so mean, dirty, and wretched, it was
+possible to watch the circulation of the life full of sap, vigour, and
+violence belonging to the strange inhabitants, unique in the world, who
+formed its heterogeneous population. The narrow gloomy streets were
+crowded with people of every description and colour, who came and went
+with a busy air.
+
+There were pothouses at the corner of all the streets and squares,
+perambulating dealers shouted their goods in a ropy voice, and public
+criers, followed by a crowd which was swelled at every step by all the
+idlers, announced with a mighty noise of trumpets and drums, the sale
+on that very day of the engagés, who had just arrived in a Company's
+vessel.
+
+Montbarts passed unnoticed through the crowd, and reached the door
+of Captain Drake's house--a rather handsome looking and cleanly kept
+house, which stood on the seashore at no great distance from the
+governor's residence.
+
+The filibuster pushed the door, which, according to the custom of the
+country, was not locked, and entered the house.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+THE SPY.
+
+
+Montbarts, as we said, walked into the house.
+
+There were two persons in the first room, which was contrived a double
+debt to pay, as half sitting room, half kitchen.
+
+These two persons were an engagé of Captain Drake and a stranger.
+
+As for the Captain, he was absent at the moment.
+
+The filibuster's eye flashed at the sight of the stranger, and an
+ill-omened smile curled his pale lips.
+
+As for the latter, he was seated at a table in the middle of the room,
+and quietly breakfasting on a piece of cold bacon, washed down by a
+bottle of Bordeaux,--a wine, let us remark, parenthetically, which,
+though unknown in Paris till the reign of Louis XV., when the Duc de
+Richelieu brought it into fashion on his return from the government of
+Guyenne--had been for a long time appreciated in America.
+
+The stranger was of rather tall stature, with a pale face, and ascetic
+features, thin, bony, and angular; but his noble manners indicated a
+high rank in society, which rank his simple and even more than modest
+costume tried in vain to conceal.
+
+On the filibuster's entrance, the stranger, without raising his head,
+took a side-glance at him from under his long velvety eyelashes, and
+again became absorbed or appeared to be so, in the contemplation of
+the capital breakfast set before him.
+
+Everything was in common among the filibusters, everyone took from
+the other, whether he was at home or not, anything he wanted, arms,
+gunpowder, clothes or food, and the person from whom it was taken had
+no right to protest or make the slightest observation; this was not
+merely admitted and tolerated, but was regarded as a right which all
+took advantage of without the slightest scruple.
+
+Montbarts, after looking round the room, took a chair, seated himself
+unceremoniously opposite the stranger, and turning to the engagé, said--
+
+"Bring me some breakfast--I am hungry."
+
+The other, without venturing the slightest remark, immediately prepared
+to obey.
+
+In a very short time he had served up an excellent breakfast for the
+filibuster, and then took his place behind his chair to wait on him.
+
+"My friend," the filibuster said, carelessly, "I thank you; but when I
+take my meals I do not like to have anybody behind me. Leave the room,
+but remain in front of the house door;" and he added, with a singularly
+meaning glance, "let no one enter here without my orders: no one--you
+understand me?" he said, laying a stress on the words; "Not even your
+master, were he to come. Can I depend on you?"
+
+"Yes, Montbarts," said the engagé, and left the room.
+
+At the name of Montbarts, uttered by the servant, the stranger gave
+an almost imperceptible start, and fixed an anxious glance on the
+filibuster; but immediately recovering himself, he began eating again
+in the most perfect tranquillity, or at least apparently so.
+
+For his part, Montbarts went on eating without troubling himself, or
+seeming to trouble himself, about the guest seated just opposite to him.
+
+This performance went on for some minutes; no other sound was heard
+in the room, where such violent passions were smouldering, but that
+produced by the knives and forks scratching on the platters.
+
+At length Montbarts raised his head and looked at the stranger.
+
+"You are very taciturn, sir," he said to him, with the simple air of
+a man who is wearied at a lengthened silence, and wishes to get up a
+conversation.
+
+"I, sir?" the stranger replied, as he looked up in his turn with the
+calmest air; "Not that I am aware of."
+
+"Still, sir," the filibuster resumed, "I would remark, that during the
+quarter of an hour I have had the honour of passing in your company,
+you have not once addressed a syllable to me, not even in greeting."
+
+"Pray excuse me, sir," the stranger said, with a slight bow; "the
+fault is entirely involuntary: besides, as I have not the advantage of
+knowing you--?
+
+"Are you quite sure of that, sir?" the adventurer interrupted,
+ironically.
+
+"At least, I think so; hence, having nothing to say to you, I suppose
+that it would be useless to begin a conversation which would have no
+object."
+
+"Who knows, sir?" the filibuster remarked, jeeringly; "Conversations
+the most frivolous at the outset, frequently become very interesting at
+the expiration of a few minutes."
+
+"I doubt whether that would be the case with ours, sir. Permit me,
+therefore, to break it off at once. Besides, I have finished my
+meal," the stranger said, rising; "and some serious business claims
+my attention. Pray forgive me, therefore, for parting company so
+hurriedly, and believe in the sincerity of my regret."
+
+The adventurer did not leave his seat, but throwing himself back in it
+with a graceful nonchalance, while playing with the knife he held in
+his hand, he said in his gentle insinuating voice--
+
+"Pardon me, my dear sir; only one word, pray."
+
+"In that case make haste, sir," the stranger replied, as he stopped,
+"for I am greatly pressed for time, I assure you."
+
+"Oh! You will certainly grant me a few minutes," the adventurer
+remarked, with the old sarcasm.
+
+"As you desire it so eagerly, I will not refuse it you, sir. But I
+really am in a hurry."
+
+"I have no doubt on that point, sir; more especially hurried to leave
+this house--is it not so?"
+
+"What do you mean, sir?" the stranger asked, haughtily.
+
+"I mean," the adventurer replied, as he rose and placed himself between
+the stranger and the door, "that it is useless to feign any longer, and
+that you are recognized."
+
+"I recognized? I do not understand you. What does this language mean?"
+
+"It means," Montbarts said brutally, "that you are a spy and a traitor,
+and that you will be hanged within ten minutes."
+
+"I?" the stranger replied, with very cleverly assumed surprise; "Why,
+you must be mad, sir, or suffering under a strange mistake. Let me
+pass, I request."
+
+"I am not mad or mistaken, Seņor Don Antonio de la Ronda."
+
+The stranger started, a livid pallor covered his face, but he
+immediately recovered himself.
+
+"Why, this is madness!" he said.
+
+"Sir," Montbarts remarked, still calm, but remaining in front of the
+door, "when I affirm, you deny. It is evident that one of us lies, or
+is mistaken. Now I declare that it is not I, hence it must be you; and
+to remove your last doubts on this point, listen to this, but first be
+good enough to resume your seat. We shall have, however much it may
+annoy you, to converse for some time and I will remark, that it is a
+very bad taste to talk standing face to face like two gamecocks ready
+to fly at each other's combs, when it is possible to act otherwise."
+
+Mastered, in spite of himself, by the adventurer's flashing glance
+obstinately fixed on him, and by his sharp, imperative accent, the
+stranger returned to his seat, and fell into it rather than sat down.
+
+"Now, sir," the filibuster continued, in the same calm voice, as he
+reseated himself and placed his elbows on the table, "in order at once
+to dissipate all the doubts you may have, and to prove to you that I
+know more about you than you will doubtless like, let me tell you your
+history in a couple of words."
+
+"Sir!" the stranger interrupted.
+
+"Oh, fear nothing," he added, with studied sarcasm, "I shall be brief:
+I no more like than you do to waste my time in idle discourses; but
+just notice, by the bye, that, as I prophesied, our conversation, at
+first frivolous, has suddenly grown interesting. Is not this singular,
+I ask you?"
+
+"I am awaiting your explanation, sir," the stranger replied, coolly;
+"for, up to the present, whatever you may say, I do not comprehend a
+word of all that it pleases you to say to me."
+
+"By Heavens! You are a man after my heart. I was not mistaken about
+you. Brave, cold, and crafty, you are worthy to be a filibuster, and to
+lead an adventurous life with us."
+
+"You do me a great honour, sir; but all this does not tell me--"
+
+"Zounds! I am coming to it, sir--a little patience. How quick you are!
+Take care: in your profession a man must be cool before all else, and
+you are not so at this moment."
+
+"You are very witty, sir," the stranger said, bowing ironically to his
+opponent.
+
+The latter was offended by this sudden attack, and smote the table with
+his fist.
+
+"Here is your history in two words, sir," he said. "You are an
+Andalusian, born at Malaga, a younger son, and consequently destined to
+take orders. One fine day, not feeling any liking for the tonsure, you
+fled from the paternal roof and embarked on a Spanish vessel bound for
+Hispaniola. Your name is Don Antonio de la Ronda. You see, sir, that up
+to this point I am well informed, am I not?"
+
+"Pray go on, sir," the stranger replied, with perfect coolness; "your
+remarks are most interesting." Montbarts shrugged his shoulders, and
+went on.
+
+"On arriving at Hispaniola, you contrived, in a short time, thanks to
+your good looks and polished manners, to secure powerful protectors;
+and thus, though you only left Europe three years ago, you have
+made such rapid progress, that you are at present one of the most
+influential men in the colony. Unluckily--"
+
+"Do you say unluckily?" the stranger interrupted with a jeering smile.
+
+"Yes, sir," the adventurer replied imperturbably; "unluckily your
+fortune turned your head so thoroughly--"
+
+"So thoroughly?"
+
+"That in defiance of your friends, you were arrested and threatened
+with a trial for embezzling a sum of nearly two million piastres; a
+noble amount, on which I compliment you. Any other man but you, sir, I
+feel a pleasure in allowing the fact, would have been ruined, or nearly
+so, as the case was very serious; and the Council of the Indies does
+not joke on money matters."
+
+"Permit me to interrupt you, my dear sir," the stranger said with the
+most perfect ease; "you are telling this story in a very talented
+manner, but if you go on so, it threatens to last indefinitely. If you
+permit it, I will finish it in a few words."
+
+"Ah! Ah! Then you allow its truth now?"
+
+"Of course," the stranger said with admirable coolness.
+
+"You acknowledge yourself to be Don Antonio de la Ronda?"
+
+"Why should I deny it longer, when you are so well informed?"
+
+"Better still; so that you confess to fraudulently entering the colony
+for the object of--"
+
+"I confess anything you like," the Spaniard said quickly.
+
+"Well, that being well established, you deserve to be hung, and you
+will be so in a few minutes."
+
+"Well, no," he replied without losing any of his coolness; "that is
+where we differ essentially in opinion, sir, your conclusion is not in
+the least logical."
+
+"What?" the adventurer exclaimed, surprised at this sudden change of
+humour which he did not expect.
+
+"I said that your conclusion was not logical."
+
+"I heard you perfectly."
+
+"And I am going to prove it," he continued; "grant me in your turn a
+few moments' attention."
+
+"Very good; we must be merciful to those who are about to die."
+
+"You are very kind; but thank Heaven I am not there yet. There's many a
+slip between the cup and the lip, as a very sensible proverb says."
+
+"Go on," the filibuster said with an ominous smile.
+
+But the Spaniard was not affected.
+
+"It is evident to me, sir, that you have some business or bargain to
+propose to me."
+
+"I?"
+
+"Certainly, and for this reason; having recognized me as a spy, for
+I must allow that I am really one (you see that I am frank in my
+confession), nothing was easier for you than to have me strung up to
+the nearest tree, without any form of trial."
+
+"Yes, but I am going to do so."
+
+"No, you will not do it now, and for this reason. You believe for
+reasons I am ignorant of, for I will not insult you by supposing that
+you had a feeling of pity for me, you who are so justly called by my
+countrymen the Exterminator--you believe, I say, that I can serve you,
+be useful to you in the success of one of your plans; consequently
+instead of having me hanged, as you would have done under any other
+circumstances, you came straight to find me here, where I fancied
+myself well hidden, in order to converse with me, like one friend with
+another. Well, I ask for nothing better, come, speak, I am listening;
+what do you want of me?"
+
+And after uttering these words with the most easy air he could assume,
+Don Antonio threw himself back in his chair delicately rolling a
+cigarette between his fingers.
+
+The filibuster gazed for a moment at the Spaniard with a surprise which
+he did not attempt to conceal, and then burst into a laugh.
+
+"That will do," he said, "I prefer that; at least there will be no
+misunderstanding between us. Yes, you have guessed correctly, I have a
+proposal to make to you."
+
+"That was not difficult to discover, sir; and pray what is the nature
+of the proposal?"
+
+"Well, it is very simple, I only require you to act exactly in the
+opposite way to what you intended, to change sides, in short."
+
+"Very good, I understand, that is to say, instead of betraying you for
+the advantage of Spain, I am to betray Spain for your profit."
+
+"Yes, you see it is easy."
+
+"Very easy, in fact, but decidedly shabby; and supposing that I consent
+to your request, what advantage shall I derive from it?"
+
+"In the first place I need hardly say that you will not be hung."
+
+"Pooh! To die by hanging, drowning, or a musket ball, is always much
+the same thing. I should desire a more distinct benefit, with your
+leave."
+
+"Confound it, you are difficult to satisfy, then it is nothing to save
+one's neck from a slip knot?"
+
+"My dear sir, when, as in my case, a man has nothing to lose and
+consequently everything to gain by any change in his position, death is
+rather a comfort than a calamity."
+
+"You are a philosopher, so it seems."
+
+"No, confound it! such absurdity never troubled me, I am merely a
+desperate man."
+
+"That is often the same thing; but let us return to our matter."
+
+"Yes, that will be better."
+
+"Well! I offer you my whole share of the first ship I take; does that
+suit you?"
+
+"That is something better; but unluckily the ship to which you refer is
+like the bear in the fable, not caught yet; I should prefer something
+more substantial."
+
+"Well, I see I must yield to you; serve me well and I will reward you
+so generously that the King of Spain himself could not do more."
+
+"Well, that is agreed, I'll run the risk; now be kind enough to tell me
+the nature of the service you expect from me?"
+
+"I wish you to help me in taking by surprise Tortoise Island, where
+you lived for a long time, and where, if I do not err, you still have
+friends."
+
+"I see no inconvenience in trying that, although I will begin by making
+my reservations."
+
+"What are they?"
+
+"That I do not pledge myself to insure the success of your hazardous
+undertaking."
+
+"That remark is fair, but do not alarm yourself, if the Island is well
+defended, it shall be well attacked."
+
+"I am convinced; now for the next matter."
+
+"I will let you know it when the time arrives, seņor; for the present,
+other business engages our attention."
+
+"As you please, sir, you will be the best judge of the opportunity."
+
+"Now, sir, as I had the honour of telling you at the outset, since I
+know you to be a very sharp hand, and very capable of slipping through
+my fingers like an eel, without the slightest scruple, and as I wish to
+avoid that eventuality, and save you any notion of the sort, you will
+do me the pleasure of going at once aboard my lugger."
+
+"A prisoner!" the Spaniard said with a gesture of ill humour.
+
+"Not as a prisoner, my dear Don Antonio, but regarded as a hostage, and
+treated as such, that is to say, with all the attention compatible with
+our common security."
+
+"Still, the word of a gentleman--"
+
+"Is valued between gentlemen, I allow, but with us _Ladrones_, as you
+call us, it has no value in my opinion; you hidalgos of old Spain,
+even make it a case of conscience to violate it without the slightest
+scruple, when your interest invites you to do so."
+
+Don Antonio hung his head; recognizing in his heart, though unwilling
+to allow it, the exact truth, of the filibuster's words.
+
+The latter enjoyed for a moment the Spaniard's discomfiture, and then
+rapped the table twice or thrice with the handle of his knife.
+
+The captain's engagé at once entered the room.
+
+"What do you want of me, Montbarts?" he asked.
+
+"Tell me, my good fellow," the adventurer asked, "have you not seen a
+red Carib prowling round this house?"
+
+"Pardon me, Montbarts, a Carib asked me only a moment ago, whether you
+were here, and I answered in the affirmative, but I did not like to
+transgress the orders I had received from you, and allow him to enter
+as he desired."
+
+"Very good. Did not the man mention his name?"
+
+"On the contrary, that was the very first thing he did; it is Omopoua."
+
+"The very man I was expecting; tell him to come in, pray, for he is
+sure to be hanging about the door; and come with him."
+
+The engagé went out.
+
+"What do you want with this man?" the Spaniard asked with a shade of
+anxiety, which did not escape the adventurer's sharp eye.
+
+"This Indian is simply intended to be your guard of honour," he said.
+
+"Hum! It really seems as if you are anxious to keep me."
+
+"Extremely so, seņor."
+
+At this moment, the engagé returned followed by the Carib, who had
+made no change in his primitive costume; but had taken advantage of
+Montbarts' permission to arm himself to the teeth.
+
+"Omopoua and you, my friend, listen attentively to what I am going to
+say to you; you see this man?" he said pointing to the Spaniard who was
+still perfectly impassive.
+
+"We see him," they answered.
+
+"You will take him on board the lugger and hand him over to my mate,
+Michael the Basque, recommending him to watch over his guest most
+attentively! If, during the passage from here to the vessel, this man
+attempts to take to flight, blow out his brains without mercy. Have you
+understood me thoroughly?"
+
+"Yes," said the engagé, "trust to us, we answer for him with our heads."
+
+"That is well, I accept your word; and now, sir," he added, addressing
+Don Antonio, "be good enough to follow these two men."
+
+"I yield to force, sir."
+
+"Very good, that is how I regard the matter, but reassure yourself,
+your captivity will be neither harsh nor long, and I shall keep the
+promises I have made you, if you keep yours. Now, go and farewell for
+the present."
+
+The Spaniard, without replying, placed himself between his two keepers
+voluntarily and left the room.
+
+Montbarts remained alone.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+THE SLAVE SALE.
+
+
+A moment after Montbarts rose, put on his cloak, which he had thrown on
+a chair when he came in, and prepared to quit the house.
+
+On the threshold he found himself face to face with Captain Drake.
+
+"Ah," said the latter, "here you are."
+
+"Yes! I have been breakfasting at your house."
+
+"You did well."
+
+"Will you accompany me to the sale?"
+
+"I do not want any hired man."
+
+"Nor I, but you know the enlistment will commence immediately
+afterwards."
+
+"That is true; let me say a word first to my engagé, and I will follow
+you."
+
+"He has gone out."
+
+"Why! I ordered him not to leave the house."
+
+"I have given him a commission."
+
+"Oh! That is different."
+
+"You do not ask me what the commission is I have given your engagé,"
+Montbarts remarked a moment later.
+
+"Why should I? It does not concern me, I suppose."
+
+"More than you imagine, brother."
+
+"Nonsense, how so?"
+
+"You offered hospitality to a stranger, did you not?"
+
+"Yes, but what of that?"
+
+"You shall see. This stranger, whom you do not know, for of course you
+do not--"
+
+"No more than Adam; what do I care who he is? hospitality is one of
+those things which cannot be refused."
+
+"That is true, but I recognized the man."
+
+"Ah, ah, and who is he then?"
+
+"Nothing less than a Spanish spy, brother."
+
+"My God!" the captain said, stopping dead short.
+
+"What is the matter with you now?"
+
+"Nothing, nothing, except that I will go and blow out his brains,
+unless you have done so already."
+
+"Pray, do nothing of the sort; this man, I feel convinced, brother,
+will prove very useful to us."
+
+"Nonsense, how so?"
+
+"Leave me to act; if we manage properly, we may draw profit even from a
+Spanish spy; in the meanwhile, I have had him taken on board the lugger
+by your engagé, and a man of my own, where he will be watched so that
+he cannot part company."
+
+"I trust to you for that, and thank you, brother, for having freed me
+from the scoundrel."
+
+While talking thus, the two men arrived at the spot where the sale of
+the engagés to the colonists was to take place.
+
+On the right of the square was a spacious shed, built of clumsily
+planed planks, and open to the wind and rain; in the centre of the shed
+was a table for the officials and secretaries of the company, who had
+to manage the sale and draw up the contracts; an easy chair had been
+set apart for the governor, by the side of a rather lofty platform,
+on which each engagé, male or female, mounted in turn, so that the
+purchasers might examine them at their ease.
+
+These wretches, deceived by the company's agents in Europe, had
+contracted engagements, whose consequences they did not at all
+understand, and were convinced that, on their arrival in America,
+with the exception of a certain tax they had to pay the company for a
+certain period, they would be completely free to earn their livelihood
+as they thought proper. The majority were carpenters, masons and
+bricklayers, but there were also among them ruined gentlemen and
+libertines who detest work and who imagined that in America, the
+country of gold, fortune would visit them while they slept.
+
+A company's ship had arrived a few days previously and brought one
+hundred and fifty engagés, among them were several young and pretty
+women, thoroughly vitiated, however, and who, like the Manon Lescault
+of the Abbé Prevost, had been picked up by the police in the streets of
+Paris, and shipped off without further formality.
+
+These women were also sold to the colonists, not apparently as slaves,
+but as wives.
+
+These unions contracted in the gipsy fashion, were only intended to
+last a settled time which must not exceed seven years, unless with
+the mutual consent of the couple, though the clause was hardly ever
+appealed to by them; at the end of that time they separated, and each
+was set at liberty to form a fresh union.
+
+The engagés had been landed two days before; these two days had been
+granted them, that they might slightly recover from the fatigue of a
+long sea voyage, walk about and breathe the reviving land breeze, of
+which they had so long been deprived.
+
+At the moment when the two adventurers arrived, the sale had been going
+on for half an hour; the shed was crowded with colonists who desired to
+purchase slaves, for we are compelled to use that odious term, for the
+poor creatures were nothing else.
+
+At the sight of Montbarts, however, whose name was justly celebrated,
+a passage was opened, and he thus succeeded in reaching the side of
+the governor, Chevalier de Fontenay, round whom the most renowned
+adventurers were collected, among them being Michael the Basque.
+
+Monsieur de Fontenay received Montbarts with distinction; he even
+rose from his chair and walked two or three steps to meet him, which
+the filibusters considered in very good taste, and felt grateful to
+him for it; this honour paid to the most celebrated among them cast a
+reflection on them all.
+
+After exchanging a few compliments with the governor, Montbarts bent
+down to Michael's ear.
+
+"Well, mate?" he said to him.
+
+"The Spaniard is aboard," Michael replied, "and carefully watched by
+Bowline."
+
+"In that case I can be at my ease?"
+
+"Perfectly."
+
+During this aside, the sale had been going on.
+
+All the male engagés had been sold, with the exception of one who was
+standing at this moment on the platform, by the side of a company's
+agent, who acted as auctioneer, and praised the qualities of the human
+merchandise he offered.
+
+This engagé was a short, stout, powerfully built man, from twenty-five
+to twenty-six years of age, with harsh, energetic, but intelligent
+features, whose grey eyes sparkled with audacity and good humour.
+
+"Pierre Nau, native of the sands of Olonne," said the company's agent,
+"twenty-five years of age, powerful and in good health, a sailor.
+Who'll say forty crowns for the Olonnais, forty crowns for three years,
+gentlemen."
+
+"Come, come," said the engagé, "if the person who buys me is a man, he
+will have a good bargain."
+
+"Going for forty crowns," the company's agent repeated, "forty crowns,
+gentlemen."
+
+Montbarts turned to the engagé.
+
+"What, you scoundrel," he said to him, "you a sailor and sell yourself
+instead of joining us? You have no pluck."
+
+The Olonnais began laughing.
+
+"You know nothing about it. I have sold myself, because I must do so,"
+he answered, "so that my mother may be able to live during my absence."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"How does it concern you? You are not my master, and even if you were,
+you would have no right to inquire into my private affairs."
+
+"You seem to me a bold fellow," Montbarts remarked.
+
+"Indeed, I believe I am; besides, I wish to become an adventurer like
+you fellows, and for that purpose I must serve my apprenticeship to the
+trade."
+
+"Going for forty crowns," cried the agent.
+
+Montbarts examined with the most serious attention the engagé, whose
+firm glance he could hardly manage to quell; then, doubtless satisfied
+with his triumph, he turned to the agent.
+
+"That will do," he said, "hold your row: I buy this man."
+
+"The Olonnais is adjudged to Montbarts the exterminator, for forty
+crowns," the agent said.
+
+"Here they are," the adventurer answered as he threw a handful of
+silver on the table; "now come," he ordered the Olonnais, "you are now
+my engagé."
+
+The latter leapt joyously off the platform and ran up to him.
+
+"So you are Montbarts the exterminator?" he asked him curiously.
+
+"I think you are questioning me," the adventurer said with a laugh,
+"still, as your question appears to me very natural, I will answer it
+this time; yes, I am Montbarts."
+
+"In that case I thank you for buying me, Montbarts; with you I am
+certain soon to become a man."
+
+And at a sign from his new master, he respectfully placed himself
+behind him.
+
+The most curious part of the sale for the adventurers then began, that
+is to say, the sale of the women.
+
+The poor wretches, mostly young and pretty, mounted the platform
+trembling, and in spite of their efforts to keep a good countenance,
+they blushed with shame, and burning tears ran down their cheeks on
+seeing themselves thus exposed before all these men, whose flashing
+eyes were fixed upon them.
+
+The company made its greatest profit by the women, and it was the more
+easy to realise, because they were got for nothing, and sold at the
+highest possible figure.
+
+The men were generally knocked down at a price varying from thirty
+to forty dollars, but never went beyond that; with the women it was
+different, they were put up to auction, and the governor alone had the
+right to stop the sale, when the price appeared to him sufficiently
+high. These women were always sold amid cries, shouts and coarse jests,
+generally addressed to the adventurers who did not fear running the
+risk of venturing on the shoal-beset ocean of marriage.
+
+Belle Tęte, that furious adventurer to whom we have already referred,
+and whom we saw at the meeting at the hatto, had, as he had resolved,
+purchased two engagés to take the place of the two who had died, so he
+said, of indolence, but, in reality of the blows he dealt them; then,
+instead of returning home he had confided the engagés to his overseer;
+for the adventurers, like the slave owners, had overseers, whose duty
+it was to make the white slaves toil; and the adventurer remained in
+the shed watching the sale of the women with the most lively interest.
+
+His friends did not fail to cut jokes at his expense, but he contented
+himself with shrugging his shoulders disdainfully, and stood with
+his hands crossed on the muzzle of his long fusil, and with his eyes
+obstinately fixed on the platform.
+
+A young woman had just taken her place there in her turn; she was a
+frail delicate girl, with light curling hair that fell on her white
+rather thin chest. Her smooth and pensive forehead, her large blue
+eyes full of tears, her fresh cheeks, her little mouth, made her appear
+much younger than she in reality was; she was eighteen years of age,
+and her delicate waist, her well-turned lips, her decent appearance,
+in short everything about her delicious person had a seductive charm,
+which formed a complete contrast with the decided air and vulgar
+manners of the women who had preceded her on the platform, and those
+who would follow her.
+
+"Louise, born at Montmartre, aged eighteen years; who will marry her
+for three years, at the price of fifteen crowns?" the company's agent
+asked in his sarcastic voice.
+
+The poor girl buried her face in her hands and wept bitterly.
+
+"Twenty crowns for Louise," an adventurer shouted, drawing nearer.
+
+"Twenty-five," another said immediately.
+
+"Make her hold her head up so that we can have a look at her," a third
+cried brutally.
+
+"Come, little one," the agent said, as he obliged her to remove her
+hands from her face; "be polite and let them look at you, it is for
+your own good, hang it all! Twenty-five crowns."
+
+"Fifty," said Belle Tęte, without moving from the spot.
+
+All eyes were turned to him; up to this moment Belle Tęte had professed
+a profound hatred for marriage.
+
+"Sixty," shouted an adventurer who did not desire to buy the girl, but
+wished to annoy his comrade.
+
+"Seventy," said another with the same charitable intention.
+
+"One hundred," Belle Tęte shouted angrily.
+
+"One hundred crowns, gentlemen, one hundred for Louise for three
+years," the stoical agent said.
+
+"One hundred and fifty."
+
+"Two hundred."
+
+"Two hundred and fifty."
+
+"Three hundred," several adventurers shouted, almost simultaneously, as
+they drew nearer to the platform.
+
+Belle Tęte was pale with rage, for he feared lest she might escape him.
+
+The adventurer had persuaded himself, rightly or wrongly, that he
+wanted a wife to manage his household; now he had seen Louise, Louise
+pleased him, she was for sale, and he resolved to buy her.
+
+"Four hundred crowns!" he said with an air of defiance.
+
+"Four hundred crowns," the company's agent repeated in his monotonous
+voice.
+
+There was a silence.
+
+Four hundred crowns is a large sum; Belle Tęte triumphed.
+
+"Five hundred!" a sharp shrill voice suddenly shouted.
+
+The contest was beginning again; the adversaries had only stopped to
+regain their strength.
+
+The company's agent rubbed his hands with a jubilant air, while
+repeating,--
+
+"Six hundred, seven, eight, nine hundred crowns!"
+
+A species of frenzy had seized on the spectators, and all bid
+furiously; the girl was still weeping.
+
+Belle Tęte was in a state of fury which approached to madness;
+clutching his fusil frenziedly in his clinched hand, he felt a
+wild temptation to send a bullet into the most determined of his
+competitors. Only the presence of M. de Fontenay restrained him.
+
+"A thousand," he shouted in a hoarse voice.
+
+"One thousand two hundred!" the most obstinate competitor immediately
+yelled.
+
+Belle Tęte stamped savagely, threw his fusil on his shoulder, drew his
+cap on to his head with a blow of his fist, and then with a step as
+slow and solemn as that of a statue would be, if a statue could walk,
+he went to place himself by the side of his unendurable rival, and
+letting the butt of his fusil fall heavily on the ground, scarce an
+inch from the man's foot, he looked him in the face for a moment with a
+defiant air, and shouted in a voice choked by emotion,--
+
+"Fifteen hundred!"
+
+The adventurer regarded him in his turn fiercely, fell back a step,
+and, after renewing the powder in the pan of his fusil, said, in a calm
+voice--
+
+"Two thousand!"
+
+Before these two obstinate adversaries the other bidders had prudently
+withdrawn; the competition was turning into a quarrel, and threatened
+to become sanguinary.
+
+A deadly silence brooded over the shed; the over-excited passions of
+these two men had spoiled all the pleasures of the spectators, and
+silenced all their jokes.
+
+The Governor followed with interest the different incidents of this
+struggle, ready to interfere at any moment.
+
+The adventurers had gradually fallen back, and left a large free space
+between the two men.
+
+Belle Tęte recoiled a few paces in his turn, suddenly examined the
+priming of his fusil, and then, pointing the latter at his adversary,
+shouted--
+
+"Three thousand!"
+
+The other raised his fusil at the same moment to his shoulder.
+
+"Three thousand five hundred crowns!" he shouted, as he pulled the
+trigger--the fusil was discharged.
+
+But the Governor, with a movement rapid as thought, threw up the barrel
+with the end of his cane, and the ball lodged in the roof.
+
+Belle Tęte remained motionless, though, on hearing the shot, he lowered
+his fusil.
+
+"Sir," the Governor exclaimed, indignantly, addressing the adventurer
+who had fired, "You have acted in a dishonourable way, and almost
+committed a murder."
+
+"Governor," the adventurer coolly replied, "when I fired he had his gun
+pointed at me, and hence it is a duel."
+
+The Governor hesitated, for the answer was specious.
+
+"No matter, sir," he continued, a moment later, "the laws of duelling
+were not respected; to punish you I put you out of the bidding. Sir,"
+he said, addressing the company's agent, "I order that the woman, who
+was the cause of this deplorable aggression, be knocked down to Seņor
+Belle Tęte for three thousand crowns."
+
+The agent bowed with rather an angry look, for the worthy man had
+hoped, from the way things were going on, to reach a much higher
+figure; but he dared not make any observations to Chevalier de
+Fontenay; he must yield, and so he did.
+
+"Louise is adjudged for three thousand crowns," he said, with a sigh of
+regret--not for the woman, but for the money--"to M. Belle Tęte."
+
+"Very good, Governor," the baffled adventurer said, with an ugly smile,
+"I must bow to your final sentence; but Belle Tęte and I will meet
+again."
+
+"I hope so, too, Picard," Belle Tęte answered, coldly; "there must be
+bloodshed between us now." During this time Louise had come down from
+the platform, when another woman took her place, and had stationed
+herself, still weeping, by the side of Belle Tęte, who was henceforth
+her lord and master.
+
+M. de Fontenay gave a commiserating glance at the poor girl, who was
+about, in all probability, to endure such a cruel existence with so
+harsh a man, and then gently said to her--
+
+"Madame, from this day you are for three years the legitimate wife of
+M. Belle Tęte, and owe him obedience, affection, and fidelity; such are
+the laws of the colony: in three years you will be your own mistress,
+at liberty to leave him or to continue to live with him, if he desire
+it; be good enough to sign this paper."
+
+The unhappy woman, blinded by her tears, and crushed by despair,
+signed, without looking at it, the paper which the Governor offered
+her; then she cast a heart-broken glance at this silent and indifferent
+crowd, in which she knew that she could not find a friend.
+
+"Now, sir," she asked, in a gentle and trembling voice, "what must I
+do?"
+
+"You must follow this man, who will be your husband for three years,"
+M. de Fontenay answered, with a touch of pity, which he could not
+overcome.
+
+At this moment Belle Tęte laid his hand on the girl's shoulder; she
+shuddered all over, and looked wildly at him.
+
+"Yes," he said, "my girl, you must follow me; for, as the Governor has
+told you, I am your husband for three years, and till the expiration of
+that time, you will have no other master but me. Now, listen to this,
+my darling, and engrave it carefully on your mind, so as to remember it
+at the right moment: what you have done, what you have been, until now,
+does not concern me, and I care little about it; but," he added, in a
+hollow, ferocious voice, which chilled the poor girl with horror, "from
+this day, from this moment, you belong to me--to me alone: I intrust
+to you my honour, which becomes yours, and if you compromise that
+honour--if you forget your duties," he said, as he dashed the butt end
+of his musket on the ground, so harshly, that the hammer rattled with
+an ill-omened sound, "this will remind you of them; now, follow me."
+
+"Be gentle to her, Belle Tęte," M. de Fontenay could not help
+saying--"she is so young."
+
+"I shall be just, Governor: now, thanks for your impartiality, it is
+time for me to retire. Picard, my old friend, you know where to find
+me."
+
+"I shall not fail to come and see you, but I do not, wish to trouble
+your honeymoon," Picard replied, with a growl.
+
+Belle Tęte withdrew, followed by his wife.
+
+The sale henceforth offered nothing of interest; the few women
+remaining were sold at prices far inferior to that which Louise had
+fetched, to the great regret, we are bound to add, of the Company's
+agent.
+
+The adventurers were preparing to leave the shed where they imagined
+there was nothing more to see; but at this moment Montbarts mounted the
+platform, and addressed the crowd in a sonorous voice--
+
+"Brothers," he said, "stay, I have an important communication to make
+to you."
+
+The adventurers remained motionless.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+THE ENLISTMENT.
+
+
+All the adventurers assembled round the platform, anxiously awaiting
+what Montbarts had to tell them.
+
+"Brothers," he said, a moment after, "I am preparing a new expedition,
+for which I require three hundred resolute men; who among you will
+follow Montbarts the Exterminator?"
+
+"All, all!" the adventurers shouted, enthusiastically.
+
+The Governor prepared to withdraw.
+
+"Pardon me, Chevalier de Fontenay," Montbarts said, "be kind enough to
+remain a few minutes longer; the expedition I have projected is most
+serious: I am about to dictate a charter party, to which I will ask
+you, as Governor of the colony, to append your signature before that of
+our companions--moreover, I have a bargain to propose to you."
+
+"I will remain, since you desire it, Montbarts," the Governor replied,
+as he returned to his seat; "now be kind enough to inform me of the
+bargain you wish to propose."
+
+"You are the owner, sir, I think, of two brigantines of eighty tons
+each?"
+
+"I am."
+
+"These brigantines are useless to you at this moment, as you appear, at
+least until fresh orders, to have given up cruising, while they will be
+very useful to me."
+
+"In that case, sir, they are at your service from this moment," the
+Governor replied, gallantly.
+
+"I thank you, as I ought, for your politeness, sir, but that is not
+my meaning; in an expedition like the one I meditate, no one can
+foresee what may happen, hence I propose to buy your two ships for four
+thousand crowns cash."
+
+"Very good, sir, since you wish it; I am delighted to be of service to
+you; the two ships are yours."
+
+"I shall have the honour of handing you the four thousand crowns within
+an hour."
+
+The two men bowed; and then the filibuster turned to the adventurers,
+who were waiting, panting with, impatience, and whose curiosity had
+been heightened by the purchase of the two vessels.
+
+"Brothers," he said, in his sonorous and sympathetic voice, "for two
+months past no expedition has been attempted, and no ship has put to
+sea; are you not beginning to grow tired of this idle life which you
+and I are leading? Are you not beginning to run short of money, and
+are not your purses light? Zounds, comrades, come with me, and within
+a fortnight your pockets shall be full of Spanish doubloons, and
+the pretty girls, who today are so coy, will then lavish their most
+charming smiles on you--down with the Spaniards, brothers! Those of
+you who are willing to follow me can give their names to Michael the
+Basque, my mate. Still, as the shares will be large, the danger will
+be great; to obtain them I only want men resolved to conquer or to
+die bravely, without asking quarter of the enemy or granting it; I am
+Montbarts the Exterminator--I grant no mercy to the Spaniards, nor do I
+ask it of them."
+
+Enthusiastic shouts greeted these words, uttered with that accent which
+the celebrated filibuster knew so well how to assume when he wished to
+seduce the individuals he was addressing.
+
+The enlistment began; Michael the Basque had seated himself at the
+table previously occupied by the Company's agent, and wrote down the
+names of the adventurers, who pressed round him in a crowd, and who
+all wished to join in an expedition which they foresaw would be most
+lucrative.
+
+But Michael had received strict instructions from his master: convinced
+that he should not want for men, and that more would offer than he
+needed, he carefully selected those whose names he took, and pitilessly
+rejected those adventurers whose reputation for, we will not say
+bravery, for all were brave as lions, but for reckless daring, was not
+thoroughly established.
+
+Still in spite of Michael's intended strictness, the number of three
+hundred was soon complete. We need scarce say they were the flower
+of the filibusters, all adventurers, the least renowned of whom
+had performed deeds of incredible daring, men with whom attempting
+impossibilities and achieving them had become but mere child's play.
+
+The first inserted were, as had been agreed on the preceding night, the
+members of the society of the Twelve.
+
+Hence M. de Fontenay, who, an old filibuster himself, knew all these
+men, not only by reputation, but from having seen them at work, could
+not recover from his surprise, and incessantly repeated to Montbarts,
+who was standing, calm and smiling at his side, "What can you be after?
+Do you mean to seize on Hispaniola?"
+
+"Who knows?" the filibuster replied sportively.
+
+"Still, I think I have a right to your confidence," the governor said
+in an offended tone.
+
+"The most entire, Sir; still, you are aware that the first condition
+of security in an expedition is secrecy."
+
+"That is true."
+
+"I cannot tell you anything, but do not prevent you from guessing."
+
+"Guessing! But how?"
+
+"Well, perhaps the charter party will set you on the right track."
+
+"Well, let me hear it."
+
+"A little patience still; but stay, here is Michael coming toward me.
+Well," he asked him, "have you completed our number?"
+
+"I should think so; I have three hundred and fifty men."
+
+"Hang it, that is a great number."
+
+"I could not do otherwise than accept them; when it is a question about
+going with Montbarts, it is impossible to keep them back."
+
+"Well, we will take them, if it must be so," Montbarts said with a
+smile, "give me your list."
+
+Michael handed it to him; the filibuster looked round him, and
+perceived an agent of the Company, whom curiosity had kept back, and
+who had remained in the shed to witness the enlistment.
+
+"You are a Company's agent, I think, sir?" he said to him, politely.
+
+"Yes, sir," the agent replied with a bow, "I have that honour."
+
+"In that case, may I ask you to do me a service?"
+
+"Speak, sir, I shall be only too glad to oblige you."
+
+"My companions and myself are no great clerks, and we can use a hatchet
+better than a pen; would it be presuming too much on your kindness to
+ask you to be good enough to serve as my secretary for a few minutes,
+and write down the charter party I shall dictate to you, and which my
+comrades will sign, after having it read to them?"
+
+"I am only too happy, sir, that you deign to honour me with your
+confidence," the agent said with a bow.
+
+Then he seated himself at the table, selected some paper, mended a pen
+and waited.
+
+"Silence, if you please, gentlemen," said the Chevalier de Fontenay,
+who had exchanged a few words in a low voice with Montbarts.
+
+The private conversations were checked, and a profound silence was
+established almost instantaneously. M. de Fontenay continued.
+
+"A filibustering expedition, composed of three ships, two brigantines
+and a lugger, is about to leave St. Kitts, under the command of
+Montbarts, whom I appoint, in the name of His most Christian Majesty,
+Louis, fourteenth of that name, admiral of the fleet. This expedition,
+whose object remains secret, has been joined by 350 men, the flower of
+the filibusters. The three captains chosen to command the ships are,
+Michael the Basque, William Drake, and John David. They are ordered to
+obey in every point the commands they will receive from the admiral,
+and each captain will himself appoint his officers." Then, turning to
+Montbarts, he added, "Now admiral, dictate the charter party."
+
+The adventurer bowed, and addressing the Company's agent, who was
+watching with head and pen erect, he said to him--
+
+"Are you ready, sir?"
+
+"I await your orders."
+
+"In that case write as I dictate."
+
+No expedition ever left port without having previously proclaimed the
+charter party: this document, in which the rights of each man were
+rigorously stipulated, served as the supreme law for these men, who,
+undisciplined though they were ashore, bowed without a murmur to the
+strictest decrees of the naval code: so soon as they had set foot on
+the vessel for which they were engaged, the captain of yesterday became
+a sailor today, accepted without grumbling the eventual inferiority
+which the duration of the cruise alone maintained, and which ended on
+the return to port, by placing each member of the expedition on the
+same level, and on a footing of the most perfect equality.
+
+We quote literally the charter party our readers are about to peruse,
+because from this authentic act they will understand more easily the
+range and power of this strange association, and the manner in which
+the filibusters treated each other.
+
+Montbarts dictated what follows in a calm voice amid the religious
+silence of his auditors, who only interrupted him at intervals, by
+shouts of approbation.
+
+"Charter party decreed by Admiral Montbarts, Captains Michael the
+Basque, William Drake, John David, and the Brethren of the Coast, who
+have voluntarily placed themselves under their orders, and which is
+fully consented to by them."
+
+"The admiral will have a right, in addition to his share, to one man
+per hundred."
+
+"Each captain will receive twelve shares."
+
+"Each brother four shares."
+
+"These shares will only be counted after the king's part has been
+deducted from all the shares."
+
+"The surgeons will receive, in addition to their share, two hundred
+dollars each, as payment for their medicaments."
+
+"The carpenters, in addition to their share, will each, have a claim
+for one hundred dollars, in remuneration of their labours."
+
+"Any disobedience will be punished by death, whatever be the name or
+rank of the culprit."
+
+"The brothers who distinguish themselves in the expedition will be
+rewarded in the following manner--The man who pulls down the enemy's
+flag from a fortress, and hoists the French one, will have a claim, in
+addition to his share, to fifty piastres."
+
+"The man who takes a prisoner, when out in search of news of the enemy,
+will have, in addition to his share, one hundred piastres."
+
+"The grenadiers, for each grenade thrown into a fort, five piastres."
+
+"Any man, who in action captures a high officer of the enemy, will be
+rewarded by the admiral, if he has risked his life, in a generous way."
+
+"Rewards offered, in addition to their share, to the wounded and
+mutilated."
+
+"For the loss of both legs, fifteen hundred crowns, or fifteen slaves,
+at the choice of the recipient: if there are enough slaves."
+
+"For the loss of both arms, eighteen hundred piastres or eighteen
+slaves, at choice."
+
+"For a leg, no distinction between right and left, five hundred
+piastres or five slaves."
+
+"For an eye, one hundred piastres or a slave; for an arm or a hand,
+no distinction between right and left, four hundred piastres or four
+slaves."
+
+"For both eyes, two thousand piastres, or twenty slaves."
+
+"For a finger, one hundred piastres or one slave: if any man be
+dangerously wounded in the body he will have five hundred piastres or
+five slaves."
+
+"It is already understood, that, in the same way, as with the king's
+part, all these rewards will be raised on the whole of the booty,
+before dividing the shares."
+
+"Any enemy's vessel captured either at sea or at anchor, will be
+divided between all the members of the expedition, unless it be
+valued at more than ten thousand crowns, in which case one thousand
+crowns will be set apart for the first ship's crew that boarded: the
+expedition will hoist the royal flag of France, and the admiral bear in
+addition the _red, white, and blue_ flag."
+
+"No officer or sailor of the expedition will be allowed to remain
+ashore anywhere unless he has previously obtained the admiral's
+permission, under penalty of being declared a maroon, and prosecuted as
+such."
+
+When this last paragraph which, like all that preceded it, had been
+listened to in the most profound silence, had been recorded by the
+Company's agent, Montbarts took the charter party, and read it through
+in a loud clear voice--
+
+"Does this charter party suit you, brethren?" he then asked the
+filibusters.
+
+"Yes, yes," they shouted, waving their caps, "long live Montbarts! Long
+live Montbarts!"
+
+"And you swear, as my officers and myself swear, to obey without a
+murmur, and strictly carry out all the clauses of this charter party?"
+
+"We swear it," they repeated.
+
+"Very good," Montbarts continued; "the embarkation will commence at
+sunrise tomorrow, and all the crews must be on board the fleet before
+ten o'clock."
+
+"We will be there."
+
+"Now, brethren, let me remind you that each of you must be armed with a
+fusil, and a cutlass, have a bag of bullets, and at least three pounds
+of gunpowder: I repeat that the expedition we are about to undertake
+is most serious, so that you may not forget to choose your chums, that
+they may aid you in the case of illness or wounds, and make your wills,
+as otherwise your shares would lapse to the king. You have understood
+me, brothers? Employ as you please the few hours' liberty left you, but
+do not forget that I expect you on board at day break tomorrow."
+
+The filibusters replied by shouts, and left the shed, where there only
+remained the governor, Montbarts, his captains, and the new engagé
+called the Olonnais, whom the adventurer had bought by auction a few
+hours previously, and who, far from being sad, seemed, on the contrary,
+extremely pleased at all that was going on in his presence.
+
+"As for you, gentlemen," Montbarts said, "I have no orders to give
+you, for you know as well as I what you have to do. Draw lots for your
+commands, then go on board, inspect the masts and rigging, and get
+ready to sail at the first signal. These are the only recommendations,
+I think, I need make you. Good-bye."
+
+The three captains bowed, and at once withdrew.
+
+"Ah!" Chevalier de Fontenay said, with an accent of regret, "My dear
+Montbarts, I never see an expedition preparing without having a lively
+feeling of sorrow, and almost of envy."
+
+"Do you regret your adventurous life, sir? I understand that feeling,
+although each expedition brings you an augmentation of wealth."
+
+"What do I care for that? Do not believe that I make an avaricious
+calculation. No! My thoughts are of a higher order. But the moment is
+badly chosen to chatter with you. Go, sir! And if you succeed, as I do
+not doubt--and yet, who knows? On your return we shall perhaps be able
+to come to an understanding; and then we will attempt an expedition
+together, which I hope will be talked about for a long time."
+
+"I shall be glad," the filibuster replied, politely, "to have you as a
+partner. Your brilliant courage, and far from ordinary merit, are to
+me certain guarantees of success. I shall therefore have the honour to
+hold myself at your orders, if it please Heaven that I succeed this
+time, and return safe and sound from the expedition I meditate."
+
+"Good luck, sir; and let us hope to meet again soon."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+They shook hands; and as, while conversing, they had left the shed,
+they went different roads, after a parting bow.
+
+The filibuster, followed by the engagé, proceeded slowly towards his
+house.
+
+At the moment when he left the town, a man placed himself before him,
+and bowed.
+
+"What do you want with me?" the adventurer asked, giving him a
+scrutinizing glance.
+
+"To say a word to you."
+
+"Say on."
+
+"Are you Captain Montbarts?"
+
+"You must be a stranger, to ask that question."
+
+"No matter. Answer."
+
+"I am Captain Montbarts."
+
+"In that case, this letter is for you."
+
+"A letter for me!" he exclaimed, in surprise.
+
+"Here it is," the stranger said, as he presented it.
+
+"Give it to me."
+
+And he took it from him.
+
+"Now my commission is performed, farewell."
+
+"A word, in your turn."
+
+"Speak."
+
+"From whom comes this letter?"
+
+"I do not know; but you will probably learn by reading the contents."
+
+"That is true."
+
+"Then I may retire?"
+
+"Nothing prevents you."
+
+The stranger bowed, and went away.
+
+Montbarts opened the letter, hurriedly perused it, and turned pale.
+Then he re-read it; but this time slowly, and as if he wished to dwell
+on each sentence.
+
+A moment later he seemed to form a resolution, and turned to his
+engagé, who was standing a few paces from him.
+
+"Come here," he said to him.
+
+"Here I am," said the other.
+
+"You are a sailor?"
+
+"A 1, I fancy."
+
+"That is well. Follow me."
+
+The filibuster turned back, hastily re-entered the town, and proceeded
+toward the sea.
+
+He seemed to be seeking something. A moment later, his gloomy face grew
+brighter.
+
+He had just seen a light canoe pulled up on the beach.
+
+"Help me to float this canoe," he said to the engagé.
+
+The latter obeyed.
+
+So soon as the canoe was afloat, Montbarts leaped in, closely followed
+by his engagé; and seizing the paddles, they put off from the shore.
+
+"Step the mast, so that we may hoist a sail so soon as we are free of
+the ships."
+
+The Olonnais, without answering, did as he was ordered.
+
+"Good!" Montbarts continued. "Now haul the sheets aft, and hand them to
+me, my lad."
+
+In a second the sail was hoisted, set, and the light canoe bounded like
+a petrel over the crest of the waves.
+
+They ran thus for some time without exchanging a word. They had left
+the ships far behind them, and passed out of the roads.
+
+"Do you speak Spanish?" Montbarts suddenly asked the engagé.
+
+"Like a native of Old Castile," the other answered.
+
+"Ah! Ah!" said Montbarts.
+
+"It is easy to understand," the Olonnais continued. "I went whaling
+with the Basques and Bayonnese, and for several years smuggled along
+the Spanish coast."
+
+"And do you like the Spaniards?"
+
+"No!" the other answered, with a frown.
+
+"You have a motive, of course?"
+
+"I have one."
+
+"Will you tell it me?"
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Out with it, then."
+
+"I had a boat of my own, in which, as I told you, I smuggled. I worked
+six years to save up the money to buy this boat. One day, while seeking
+to land prohibited goods in a bay to windward of Portugalete, I was
+surprised by a Spanish revenue lugger. My boat was sunk, my brother
+killed, myself dangerously wounded, and I fell into the hands of the
+Gavachos. The first bandage they placed on my wounds was a bastinado,
+which left me for dead on the ground. Believing, doubtless, that
+they had killed me, they abandoned me then, and paid no further
+attention to me. I succeeded by boldness and cunning, after enduring
+indescribable tortures from hunger, cold, fatigue, &c., too lengthy to
+enumerate, in at length leaping across the frontier, and finding myself
+once again on French soil. I was free, but my brother was dead. I was
+ruined, and my old father ran a risk of dying of hunger--thanks to the
+Spaniards. Such is my history. It is not long.--How do you like it?"
+
+"It is a sad one, my good fellow; but it is as much hatred as the
+desire of growing rich which has brought you among us?"
+
+"It is hatred, before everything."
+
+"Good! Take the helm in my place, while I reflect. We are going to
+Nevis. Steer to windward of that point which juts out down there to the
+southeast."
+
+The engagé seized the helm. Montbarts wrapped himself in his cloak,
+pulled his hat over his eyes, let his head sink on his chest, and
+remained motionless as a statue. The canoe still advanced, vigorously
+impelled by the breeze.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+NEVIS.
+
+
+Nevis is only separated from St. Kitts by a channel half a league in
+width at the most.
+
+This charming little island, whose fertility is remarkable, is,
+according to all probability, the result of a volcanic explosion; and
+this assertion is nearly proved by a crater containing a spring of hot
+water strongly impregnated with sulphur.
+
+Seen from a distance, it offers the appearance of a vast cone; it is,
+in fact, only a very lofty mountain, whose base is watered by the sea;
+its sides at first offering an easy incline, become, at a certain
+height, excessively abrupt; all vegetation ceases, and its snow covered
+peak is lost in the clouds.
+
+During the attack of the Spaniards on St. Kitts, several adventurers
+had sought shelter on this isle. Some of them, seduced by attractive
+sites, permanently settled there, and commenced forming plantations;
+few in number, it is true, and too far apart for the inhabitants to
+aid each other in the event of an attack from an external foe, but
+which prospered, and promised, ere long, to acquire a certain amount of
+importance.
+
+The filibuster, although his little skiff was impelled by a good
+breeze, took some time in reaching the island, because he was obliged
+to go along the entire length of the channel ere he reached the spot
+where he wished to go.
+
+The sun was already beginning to decline, when the canoe at length put
+into a small sandy creek.
+
+"Pull up the canoe, hide the paddles among the reeds," said Montbarts,
+"and follow me."
+
+The Olonnais obeyed with the punctuality and intelligent vivacity which
+he displayed in everything, and then said to his master--
+
+"Shall I take my fusil?"
+
+"There is no harm in doing so," the latter replied; "an adventurer
+should never go unarmed."
+
+"Very good; I will remember that."
+
+They proceeded inland, following a scarce-traced path, which ran with
+a gentle incline from the beech, wound round a rather steep hill,
+and after passing through a leafy mahogany forest, led to a narrow
+esplanade, in the centre of which a light canvas tent had been pitched,
+not far from a rock.
+
+A man, seated before the entrance of the tent, was reading a Breviary.
+He was dressed in the strict attire of the Franciscans, and seemed
+to have passed middle life. He was pale and thin, his features were
+ascetic and stern, his countenance was intelligent, and a marked
+expression of gentleness was spread over it. At the sound of the
+adventurers' footsteps he raised his head quickly, turned towards them,
+and a melancholy smile played round his lips.
+
+Hurriedly closing his book, he rose and walked a few steps toward the
+newcomers.
+
+"Heaven be with you, brothers!" he said in Spanish, "If you come with
+pure intentions; if not, may it inspire you with better thoughts."
+
+"My father," the filibuster said, returning his salutation, "I am the
+man whom the adventurers of St. Kitts call Montbarts, and my intentions
+are pure, for in coming here I have only yielded to the desire you
+expressed to see me, if you are really Fray Arsenio Mendoza, from whom
+I received a letter a few hours ago."
+
+"I am the person who wish to see you, brother; and that is really my
+name."
+
+"In that case speak, I am ready to hear you."
+
+"Brother," the monk answered, "the things I have to communicate to you
+are of the highest importance, and concern you alone. Perhaps it would
+be better that you alone should hear them."
+
+"I do not know what important matters you can have to tell me, father;
+but in any case, learn that this man is my engagé, and, as such, it is
+his duty to be deaf and dumb when I order him."
+
+"Very good, I will speak in his presence, since you demand it; still, I
+repeat to you, that it would be better for us to be alone."
+
+"I will act in accordance with your wish. Retire out of hearing, but
+keep in sight," he said to his engagé.
+
+The latter retired about one hundred yards down the path, and leant on
+his fusil.
+
+"Do you fear any treachery on the part of a poor monk like me?" the
+Franciscan asked, with a sad smile; "That would be very gratuitously
+imputing to me intentions very remote from my thoughts."
+
+"I suppose nothing, father; still, I am accustomed," the filibuster
+coarsely answered, "always to be on my guard when I am in the presence
+of a man of your nation, whether he be priest or layman."
+
+"Yes, yes," he said, in a sorrowful voice, "you profess an implacable
+hatred for my unhappy country, and for that reason are called the
+Exterminator."
+
+"Whatever be the feelings I profess for your countrymen and the name
+it has pleased them to give me, it is not, I suppose, to discuss this
+point with me that you have come here at a serious risk, and requested
+me to meet you."
+
+"Indeed, it was not for that motive, you are right, my son, though,
+personally, I might have a good deal to say on that subject."
+
+"I would observe, father, that the hour is advancing--I have but little
+time at your service, and if you do not hasten to explain yourself, I
+shall be, to my great regret, constrained to leave you."
+
+"You would regret it for your whole life, brother, were it as long as a
+patriarch's."
+
+"That is possible, though I greatly doubt it. I can only receive bad
+news from Spain."
+
+"Perhaps so; in any case, these are the news of which I am the bearer."
+
+"I am listening to you."
+
+"I am, as my gown shows you, a monk of the order of San Francisco de
+Asís."
+
+"At least, you have the look of one," the adventurer remarked, with an
+ironical smile.
+
+"Do you doubt it?"
+
+"Why not? Would you be the first Spaniard who was not afraid to profane
+a sacred dress, in order to spy our movements the more easily?"
+
+"Unfortunately what you say is true, and it has happened only too
+often; but I am merely a monk."
+
+"I believe you, till I have proof of the contrary; so go on."
+
+"Very good. I am the spiritual director of several ladies of quality in
+the island of Hispaniola: one among them, young and beautiful, who only
+arrived in the West Indies a short time ago with her husband, appears
+to be devoured by an incurable grief."
+
+"Indeed! And what can I do to prevent it, father?"
+
+"I know not: still, this is what took place between this lady and
+myself. The lady, who, as I told you, is young and fair, and whose
+charity and goodness are inexhaustible, spends the greater part of
+her days in her oratory, kneeling before a picture representing our
+Lady of Mercy, imploring her with tears and sobs. Interested, in spite
+of myself, by this so true and so profound grief, I have on several
+occasions employed the right which my sacred office gives me, to try
+and penetrate into this ulcerated heart, and obtain from my penitent a
+confession, which would permit me to give her some consolation."
+
+"And I presume that you have not succeeded, father?"
+
+"Alas! No, I have not."
+
+"Allow me to repeat to you, that, up to the present I do not see in
+this very sad story, which is to some extent, however, that of most
+women, anything very interesting to me."
+
+"Wait, brother, I am coming to that."
+
+"In that case, proceed."
+
+"One day, when this lady appeared to me to be more sad than usual, and
+I redoubled my efforts to induce her to open her heart to me--doubtless
+overcome by my solicitations, she said these words to me, which I
+repeat to you exactly:--'My father, I am an unhappy, cowardly, and
+infamous creature, and a terrible malediction weighs on me. Only one
+man has the right to know the secret which I try, in vain, to stifle in
+my heart. Upon this man depends my salvation. He can condemn or acquit
+me: but whatever be the sentence he may pronounce, I will bow without a
+murmur beneath his will, too happy to expiate at this price the crime
+of which I have been guilty.'"
+
+While the monk was pronouncing these words, the usually pale face of
+the adventurer had turned livid, a convulsive trembling agitated his
+limbs, and, in spite of his efforts to appear calm, he was constrained
+to lean against one of the tent pickets, lest he should fall on the
+ground.
+
+"Go on!" he said, in a hoarse voice. "Did this woman tell you the man's
+name?"
+
+"She did, brother. 'Alas!' she said to me, 'Unfortunately the man on
+whom my destiny depends is the most implacable enemy of our nation. He
+is one of the principal chiefs of those ferocious adventurers who have
+vowed a merciless war against Spain. I shall never meet him, except
+in the horrors of a combat, or during the sack of a town fired by his
+orders. In a word, the man I am speaking to you about is no other than
+the terrible Montbarts the Exterminator.'"
+
+"Ah!" the adventurer muttered, in a choking voice, as he pressed his
+hand forcibly against his chest, "The woman said that?"
+
+"Yes, brother; such are the words she uttered."
+
+"And then?"
+
+"Then, brother, I, a poor monk, promised her to seek you, to find you,
+no matter where you were, and repeat her words to you. I had only death
+to fear in trying to see you, and I long ago offered God the sacrifice
+of my life."
+
+"You have acted like a noble-hearted man, monk; and I thank you for
+having had confidence in me. Have you nothing to add?"
+
+"Yes, brother, I have. When the lady saw me fully resolved to brave all
+perils for the sake of finding you, she added, 'Go, then, my father:
+it is doubtless Heaven that takes pity on me, and inspires you at this
+moment. If you succeed in reaching Montbarts, tell him that I have a
+secret to confide to him, on which the happiness of his whole life
+depends; but that he must make haste, if he wish to learn it, for I
+feel that my days are numbered, and that I shall soon die.' I promised
+her to accomplish her wishes faithfully, and I have come."
+
+There was a silence for some minutes. Montbarts walked up and down with
+hanging head, and arms folded on his chest, stopping every now and then
+to stamp his foot savagely: then, resuming his hurried walk, while
+muttering unconnected words in a low voice.
+
+All at once he stopped before the monk, and looked him straight in the
+face.
+
+"You have not told me all," he said to him.
+
+"Pardon me, brother; everything, word by word."
+
+"Still there is an important detail, which you have doubtless
+forgotten, as you have passed it over in silence?"
+
+"I do not understand to what you are alluding, brother," the monk
+replied, gravely.
+
+"You have forgotten to reveal to me the name and position of this
+woman, father."
+
+"That is true: but it is not forgetfulness on my part. In acting thus,
+I have obeyed the orders I received. The lady implored me to tell you
+nothing touching her name or position. She reserves that for herself,
+when you are alone together: and I swore to keep her secret."
+
+"Ah! Ah! Seņor monk," the adventurer exclaimed, with a wrath the more
+terrible because it was concentrated; "You have taken that oath?"
+
+"Yes, brother, and will keep it at all risks," he answered firmly.
+
+The adventurer burst into a hoarse laugh.
+
+"You are doubtless ignorant," he said, in a hissing voice, "that we
+_ladrones_, as your countrymen call us, possess marvellous secrets to
+untie the most rebel tongues, and that you are in my power."
+
+"I am in the hands of God, brother--try it. I am only a poor
+defenceless man, incapable of resisting you. Torture me, then, if such
+be your good pleasure; but know that I will die, without revealing my
+secret."
+
+Montbarts bent a flashing glance on the monk who stood so calm before
+him; and then, a moment after, struck his forehead angrily.
+
+"I am mad!" he exclaimed: "What do I care for this name--do I not
+know it already? Listen, father. Forgive me what I said to you, for
+passion blinded me. You came to this island freely, and shall leave it
+freely--in my turn I swear it to you; and I am not more accustomed to
+break any oaths I take--no matter their nature--than you are."
+
+"I know it, brother. I have nothing to forgive you. I see that grief
+led you astray, and I pity you, for Heaven has chosen me, I feel a
+presentiment of it, to bring a great misfortune upon you."
+
+"Yes, you speak truly. I did not seek this woman--I tried to forget
+her, and it is she who voluntarily places herself in my path. It is
+well, Heaven will judge between her and me. She demands that I will
+go and see her, and I will do so, but she must only blame herself for
+the terrible consequences of our interview. Still, I consent to leave
+her yet one chance of escape. When you return to her, urge her not to
+try to see me again. You see, that I have a little pity for her in my
+heart, in spite of all she made me suffer; but if, in spite of your
+entreaties, she persists in meeting me, in that case her will be done.
+I will go to the place of meeting she may select."
+
+"I know where it is, brother, and am ordered to point it out to you
+today."
+
+"Ah," the filibuster said, suspiciously, "she has forgotten nothing.
+Well, where is it?"
+
+"The lady, you can understand, cannot quit the island, even if she
+wished to do so."
+
+"That is true. So we are to meet in Hispaniola itself?"
+
+"Yes, brother."
+
+"And what spot has she selected?"
+
+"The great Savannah, that separates Mirebalais from San Juan de Goava."
+
+"Ah! The spot is famously chosen for an ambuscade," the filibuster
+said, with a sneering laugh, "for if I remember rightly, it is on
+Spanish territory."
+
+"It forms the extreme limit, brother. Still, I will try to induce the
+lady to choose another spot, if you are afraid about your safety at
+this one."
+
+Montbarts shrugged his shoulders with a contemptuous laugh.
+
+"I afraid!" he said. "Nonsense, monk, you must be mad! What do I care
+for the Spaniards, if five hundred of them were ambushed to surprise
+me, I should be able to get away from them! It is settled, then, that
+if the lady persist in her intention of having an explanation with me,
+I will go to the Savannah, which extends between Mirebalais and San
+Juan de Goava, at the confluence of the great river and the Artibonite."
+
+"I will do what you desire, brother; but if the lady insist, in spite
+of my remonstrances and entreaties, on the interview taking place, how
+am I to warn you?"
+
+"As it is possible for you to come here, you will be the better able;
+without attracting suspicion, to enter the French part of St. Domingo."
+
+"I will try, at any rate, brother, since it must absolutely be so."
+
+"You will light a large fire on the coast in the vicinity of Port
+Margot, and I shall know what it means."
+
+"I will obey you, brother: but when am I to light the fire?"
+
+"How long do you propose remaining here?"
+
+"I intend to leave immediately after our interview."
+
+"This evening, then?"
+
+"Yes, brother."
+
+"Ah, ah, then there is a Spanish vessel in the neighbourhood?"
+
+"Probably so, brother; but if you discover it and capture it, how shall
+I succeed in returning to Hispaniola?"
+
+"That is true; this consideration saves the Gavachos: but believe,
+after due reflection, I think it my duty to give you some advice."
+
+"Whatever it may be, brother, coming from you, I shall receive it with
+pleasure."
+
+"Well, then, carry out your intention. Start at once; tomorrow it will
+not be pleasant for you in these waters, and I would not answer for
+your safety or that of your vessel. Do you comprehend me?"
+
+"Perfectly, brother; and for the signal?"
+
+"Light it fifteen days from today, and I will arrange so as to arrive
+at St. Domingo about that time."
+
+"Very good, brother."
+
+"And now, monk, farewell till we meet again, as it is probable we shall
+do."
+
+"It is probable, indeed, brother. Farewell, and may the merciful Lord
+be with you!"
+
+"So be it," the filibuster said, with an ironical laugh.
+
+He gave a parting wave of his hand to the monk, threw his fusil on his
+shoulder, and went off, but a few minutes after stopped and went back.
+
+The Franciscan had remained motionless at the same spot.
+
+"One last word, father," he said.
+
+"Speak, brother," he answered, gently.
+
+"Take my advice, employ all your power over the lady to induce her to
+give up this meeting, whose consequences may be terrible."
+
+"I will try impossibilities to succeed, brother," the monk replied; "I
+will pray to Heaven to permit me to persuade my penitent."
+
+"Yes," Montbarts added, in a gloomy voice, "it would be better for her
+and for me, perhaps, if we never met again."
+
+And roughly turning his back on the monk, he hurried along the track,
+where he speedily disappeared.
+
+When Fray Arsenio felt certain that this time the adventurer had really
+gone, he gently raised the curtain of the tent and stepped inside.
+
+A woman was kneeling there on the bare ground, with her head buried in
+her hands, and praying with stifled sobs.
+
+"Have I punctually accomplished your orders, my daughter?" the monk
+said.
+
+The woman drew herself up and turned her lovely pale and tear-swollen
+face toward the monk.
+
+"Yes, padre," she murmured, in a low and trembling voice. "Bless you
+for not abandoning me in my distress."
+
+"Is this really the man with whom you desire an interview?"
+
+"Yes, it is he, father."
+
+"And you still insist on seeing him?"
+
+She hesitated for a moment, a shudder ran over her whole person, and
+then she murmured in a hardly intelligible voice--
+
+"I must, father."
+
+"You will reflect between this and then, I hope," he continued.
+
+"No, no," she said, with a sorrowful shake of the head; "if that
+man were to plunge his dagger into my heart, I must have a final
+explanation with him."
+
+"Your will be done," he said
+
+At this moment, a slight sound was heard outside.
+
+The monk went out, but returned almost immediately.
+
+"Get ready, madam," he said; "our crew have come to fetch you. Remember
+the parting advice that _ladrón_ gave me, and let us be gone as soon as
+possible."
+
+Without replying, the lady rose, wrapped herself carefully in her
+mantilla, and went out.
+
+An hour later, she left Nevis, accompanied by Fray Arsenio Mendoza.
+
+Montbarts had reached St. Kitts long before.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+THE EXPEDITION.
+
+
+During the entire passage from Nevis to St. Kitts Montbarts was in a
+strange state of excitement.
+
+The interview he had held with the monk had rearoused in his heart a
+profound sorrow which time had deadened but not cauterized, and at the
+first word that fell in this hour's conversation the wound burst open
+again, bleeding and livid as on the day of its receipt.
+
+How had this woman, whom he would not name, of whose presence in
+America he was ignorant, whom, in short, he fancied he had escaped by
+hiding himself among the filibusters, succeeded in so short a time, not
+only in learning his presence in the islands, but also in finding him
+again? For what object did she insist on finding him? What interest
+could she have in seeing him?
+
+All these questions, which he asked himself in turn, necessarily
+remained unanswered, and for that very reason augmented his anxiety.
+
+For a moment he thought of laying an ambush in the straits of Nevis
+and St. Eustache, the two islands between which St. Kitts is situated,
+capturing the Spanish vessel, and obtaining by torture the information
+the monk had refused to give him.
+
+But he gave up this plan almost immediately; he had pledged his word of
+honour, and would not break it for anything in the world.
+
+In the meanwhile, night had set in, and the canoe was still advancing.
+
+Montbarts steered for the lugger, which was anchored a short distance
+from land.
+
+When the light boat was under the vessel's counter, the filibuster made
+his engagé a sign to lay on his oars, and shouted in a loud voice--
+
+"Lugger, ahoy!"
+
+At once, a man whose black outline was designed on the dark blue
+horizon, leant over.
+
+"Boat ahoy!" he shouted.
+
+"Is that you, Bowline?" Montbarts continued.
+
+"All right."
+
+"Is Michael aboard?"
+
+"Yes, admiral."
+
+"Ah, you have recognised me, my lad?"
+
+"Of course," said the Breton.
+
+"I suppose you are watching over my prisoner?"
+
+"I answer for him."
+
+"But do not annoy him unnecessarily."
+
+"All right, admiral, we will be gentle with him."
+
+"Is Omopoua aboard at this moment?"
+
+"Here I am, master," a second voice immediately replied.
+
+"Ah, ah," the filibuster said with satisfaction, "all the better. I
+want you--come ashore."
+
+"Are you in a hurry, master?"
+
+"A great hurry."
+
+"In that case, wait a moment."
+
+And ere the filibuster could guess the Carib's intention, the noise of
+a body falling in the water could be heard, and two or three minutes
+later the Indian rested his hands on the gunwale of the canoe.
+
+"Here I am," he said.
+
+Montbarts could not refrain from smiling on seeing with what
+promptitude the savage obeyed his orders. He held out his hand, and
+helped him to get into the boat.
+
+"Why such a hurry?" he said to him in a tone of friendly reproach.
+
+The Indian shook himself like a drowned poodle.
+
+"Nonsense," he said, "I am all right."
+
+"Have you got the Indian?" Bowline asked.
+
+"Yes: now good night; you will see me tomorrow."
+
+"Tomorrow?"
+
+"Pull," the filibuster said to the engagé.
+
+The latter dipped his paddles, and the canoe resumed its course.
+
+Ten minutes later, it ran aground at the very spot where Montbarts had
+seized it for the purpose of going to Nevis. The three men landed on
+the beach, pulled up the canoe, and went off in the direction of the
+hatto.
+
+They passed through the town and a swarm of filibusters, who were
+celebrating by songs, shouts, and libations their last hours of liberty.
+
+They went on in silence. When the three men reached the hatto,
+Montbarts lit a candle, and searched the house with the greatest care,
+to make sure that no stranger was present; then he returned to his two
+comrades, who were waiting for him in the Esplanade.
+
+"Come in," he merely said to them.
+
+They followed him.
+
+Montbarts sat down in a chair, and then turned to the Carib.
+
+"I have to talk with you, Omopoua," he said.
+
+"Good," the Indian remarked, joyously; "in that case you have need of
+me."
+
+"If that were true you would be satisfied, then?"
+
+"Yes, I should be."
+
+"For what reason?"
+
+"Because, since I have found a white man who is good and generous, I
+am anxious to prove to you that all the Caribs are not ferocious and
+untameable, but know how to be grateful."
+
+"I promised you, I think, to take you back to your country?"
+
+"Yes, you made me that promise."
+
+"Unfortunately, as I am appointed chief of an important expedition,
+which will probably last some time, it is impossible for me at this
+moment to take you back to Haiti."
+
+The Indian's face grew dark on hearing this.
+
+"Do not grieve, but listen to me attentively," the filibuster
+continued, who had noticed the change that took place in the Indian's
+face.
+
+"I am listening to you."
+
+"What I cannot do you are able to effect by yourself, if I supply you
+with the means."
+
+"I do not exactly understand what the white Chief means; I am only a
+poor Indian, with limited ideas. I require to have things explained to
+me very clearly before I understand them; but it is true, that when I
+do understand I never forget."
+
+"You are a Carib, hence you know how to manage a canoe?"
+
+"Yes," the Indian answered, with a proud smile.
+
+"Suppose I gave you a canoe, do you believe that you could fetch Haiti?"
+
+"The great land is very far away," he said, in a sorrowful voice, "the
+voyage very long for a single man, however brave he may be."
+
+"Agreed; but suppose I placed in the canoe not only provisions, but
+cutlasses, axes, daggers, and four fusils, with powder and ball?"
+
+"The pale Chief would do that!" he said, with an incredulous air. "Thus
+armed, who could resist Omopoua?"
+
+"Suppose I did more?" the adventurer continued, with a smile.
+
+"The Chief is jesting; he is very gay. He says to himself, the Indians
+are credulous; I will have a laugh at the expense of Omopoua."
+
+"I am not jesting, Chief--on the contrary, I am very serious; I will
+give you the things I have enumerated to you, and, in order that you
+may reach your country in safety, I will lend you a comrade, a brave
+man, who will be your brother, and defend you as you would defend
+yourself."
+
+"And that companion?"
+
+"Is here," said Montbarts, pointing to his engagé, who was standing
+calm and motionless by his side.
+
+"Then I am not to make the expedition with you, Montbarts?" the latter
+said, in a sad voice, and with a reproachful accent.
+
+"Reassure yourself," said Montbarts, tapping him gently on the
+shoulder; "the mission I send you on is most confidential, and even
+more perilous than the expedition I am undertaking. I wanted a devoted
+man--another self--and I have chosen you."
+
+"You have done well, in that case; I will prove to you that you are not
+mistaken about me."
+
+"I am convinced of that already, my lad. Do you accept this companion,
+Omopoua? He will help you to pass without being insulted through the
+filibusters you may meet on your route."
+
+"Good! The pale Chief really loves Omopoua. What is the Indian to do on
+arriving in his country?"
+
+"Omopoua's brothers have sought shelter, I think, in the neighbourhood
+of the Artibonite?"
+
+"Yes, in the great savannahs to which the French have given the name of
+Mirebalais."
+
+"Good! Omopoua will go and join his friends; he will tell them in what
+way the filibusters treat the Caribs: he will present his companion to
+them, and wait."
+
+"I will wait: the pale Chief, then, is coming to Haiti?"
+
+"Probably," said Montbarts, with a smile of indefinable meaning; "and
+the proof is, that my engagé will remain with your tribe till my
+arrival."
+
+"Good! I will await the coming of the pale Chief. When am I start?"
+
+"This very night. Go down to the beach; go in my name to the owner of
+the canoe which brought us ashore--here is money," and he gave him
+several piastres; "tell him that I buy his boat exactly as it stands.
+You will lay in provisions at the same time, and then wait for your
+comrade, to whom I have a few words to say--but he will rejoin you
+soon."
+
+"I will go, then; gratitude is in my heart, and not on my lips. On the
+day when you ask for my life I will give it you, because it is yours,
+as well as that of all those who love me. Farewell!"
+
+And he made a movement to leave the room.
+
+"Where are you going?" Montbarts asked him.
+
+"I am off; did you not give me leave to go?"
+
+"Yes, but you are forgetting something."
+
+"What is it?"
+
+"The arms I promised you. Take from the rack a fusil for yourself, and
+four others, which you can dispose of as you please, six cutlasses,
+six daggers, and six hatchets; when you leave port, on passing the
+lugger, you will ask Michael the Basque, in my name, for two barrels of
+gunpowder and two bags of bullets--he will give them to you. Now go,
+and I wish you all good fortune."
+
+The Carib, overcome by this generosity, so simple and so full of
+grandeur, knelt to the adventurer, and seizing his feet, which he
+placed on his head, he exclaimed, in a deeply affected voice--
+
+"I pay you homage as to the best of men. I and mine are henceforth and
+eternally your devoted slaves." He got up, placed on his shoulder the
+arms which the engagé handed him, and quitted the hatto.
+
+For some minutes his footsteps could be heard resounding on the path;
+but this sound gradually died away, and a complete silence returned.
+
+"Now for us two, Olonnais!" Montbarts then said, addressing the engagé.
+
+The latter drew nearer.
+
+"I am listening, master," he said.
+
+"I saw you today for the first time, and yet you pleased me at the very
+first glance," the adventurer continued. "I fancy myself a tolerable
+physiognomist. Your frank and open face, your bold-looking eyes, and
+the expression of audacity and intelligence spread over your features,
+disposed me in your favour. That is the reason why I bought you. I
+trust that I am not deceived about you; but I wish to make trial of
+you. You know that I am at liberty to shorten your engagement, or even,
+if I like, restore you your freedom tomorrow, so think of that, and act
+accordingly."
+
+"Whether engaged or free I shall always be devoted to you, Montbarts,"
+the Olonnais said, "hence do not speak to me of recompense, for it is
+useless with me: make your trial, and I hope to emerge from it with
+honour."
+
+"That is speaking like a man and a frank adventurer: listen to me,
+then, and do not let a word of what you are about to hear escape your
+lips."
+
+"I shall be dumb."
+
+"In ten days at the most I shall anchor in Port Margot in St. Domingo;
+the expedition I command is intended to take Tortoise Isle by surprise;
+but while we are occupied on our side in surprising the Spaniards, they
+must not be able to attack us in the rear, and ruin our establishments
+at Grande Terre."
+
+"I understand; Omopoua's Caribs are scattered along the Spanish
+frontier, and must be converted into allies of the expedition."
+
+"The very thing--you have understood me perfectly. Such is your
+missive; but you must act with extreme cleverness and considerable
+prudence, in order not to give the alarm to the Gavachos on one hand,
+or arouse the suspicious of the Caribs on the other; the Indians are
+susceptible and mistrustful, especially with white men, against
+whom they have so many causes of complaint. The part you have to
+play is rather difficult, but I think you will succeed--thanks to
+the influence of Omopoua; besides, two days after my arrival at Port
+Margot, I will proceed to the savannahs of the Artibonite, in order
+to have an understanding, and to make the arrangements I may consider
+necessary. You see that I act toward you with perfect frankness, and
+rather as with a brother than an engagé."
+
+"I thank you for it; you shall have no cause to repent it."
+
+"I am glad to believe it--ah! A final recommendation, of secondary
+importance, but, for all that, serious."
+
+"What is it?"
+
+"The Spaniards frequently hunt, or make excursions in the savannahs of
+the Artibonite; watch them, though without letting them perceive you;
+let them not have the slightest suspicion of what we are meditating
+against them, for the least imprudence might have excessively grave
+consequences for the success of our plans."
+
+"I will act with prudence, be assured."
+
+"Now, my lad, I have only to wish you a pleasant trip, and successful
+result."
+
+"Will you allow me, in my turn, to ask you a question before departing?"
+
+"Speak, I allow it."
+
+"For what reason have you, who possess so many brave and devoted
+friends, instead of applying to one of them, chosen an obscure
+engagé, whom you hardly know, to confide to him so difficult and so
+confidential a mission?"
+
+"Are you anxious to know?" the adventurer asked, laughingly.
+
+"Yes, if you do not consider the question indiscreet."
+
+"Not the least in the world, and you shall be satisfied in a couple
+of words. Apart from the good opinion I have of you, and which is
+only personal, I have chosen you, because you are only a poor engagé,
+who arrived from France but two days ago--no one knows you, or is
+aware that I have purchased you: for this reason no one will dream of
+suspecting you, and consequently you will be a more valuable agent to
+me, as no one will imagine that you are my plenipotentiary, and acting
+under my orders. Now do you understand, my lad?"
+
+"Perfectly, and I thank you for the explanation you have given me.
+Good-bye; within an hour the Carib and I will have left St. Kitts."
+
+"Allow him to guide you during the voyage, that man is very clever,
+though an Indian, and he will conduct you so that you will both reach
+port in safety."
+
+"I shall not fail to do so; besides, the deference I shall show him
+will dispose him in my favour, and further advance the success of our
+projects."
+
+"Come, come," the adventurer said, with a laugh, "I see that you are a
+sharp lad, and I now have good hopes of the issue of your mission."
+
+The Olonnais armed himself as the Carib had done, then took leave of
+his master, and went away.
+
+"Come," Montbarts muttered, when he was alone, "I believe that my plans
+are beginning to assume consistency, and that I shall soon be able to
+deal a grand stroke."
+
+The next morning at sunrise an unusual agitation prevailed in the
+township, which, however, was never very tranquil.
+
+The filibusters, armed to the teeth, were taking leave of their
+friends, and preparing to proceed on board the vessels for which they
+had enlisted on the previous day.
+
+The roads were cut up in all directions by a prodigious number of
+canoes which passed to and fro, carrying men and provisions to the
+departing ships.
+
+The Chevalier de Fontenay, surrounded by a numerous staff of renowned
+filibusters, and having at his side Montbarts, David Drake, and Michael
+the Basque, was standing at the end of the wooden mole that served as a
+landing place, and witnessing thence the departure of the adventurers.
+
+These men with bronzed complexion, energetic and ferocious features,
+and vigorous limbs, scarce clad in canvas drawers and old hats or caps,
+but armed with long fusils, manufactured at Dieppe expressly for them,
+having a heavy sharpened cutlass hanging from their belt, and carrying
+their stock of powder and bullets, had a strange and singularly
+formidable appearance, rendered even more striking by the expression of
+carelessness and indomitable audacity spread over their faces.
+
+On seeing them it was easy to understand the terror with which they
+must inspire the Spaniards, and the incredible exploits they achieved
+almost as if in play, reckoning their lives as nothing, and only seeing
+the object, that is to say, plunder.
+
+As they defiled before the governor and the officers elected to command
+them, they saluted them respectfully, because discipline demanded it,
+but the salute had nothing low or servile about it, it was that of men
+fully conscious of their value, and aware that though sailors today,
+they might, as they liked, be captains tomorrow.
+
+Towards midday the crews were complete, and only the Admiral and three
+captains were still ashore.
+
+"Gentlemen," Montbarts said to his officers, "so soon as we are out
+to sea, each of you will sail as you like; we have but a small stock
+of provisions on board, but the islands we pass will supply us, do
+not hesitate to pillage the corales of the Gavachos, for that will be
+so much taken from the enemy. Hence it is settled that we will each
+proceed separately to the general meeting place, for prudence urges
+us not to let the enemy suspect our strength; our meeting place is
+the northern island of the Grand Key; the first to arrive will await
+the two others, there I will give you my final instructions about the
+object of the expedition, of which you already know a part."
+
+"So then," said M. de Fontenay, "you insist on keeping your secret?"
+
+"If you absolutely demand, sir," Montbart replied, "I will--"
+
+"No, no," he interrupted him with a laugh; "keep it, for I do not know
+what to do with it; besides, I have pretty nearly guessed your secret."
+
+"Ah," Montbarts said with an air of incredulity.
+
+"Confound it, I am greatly mistaken or you mean to make some attempt on
+St. Domingo."
+
+The adventurer only answered by a crafty smile, and took leave of the
+governor, who rubbed his hands joyously, for he was persuaded that he
+had guessed the secret which it was attempted to conceal from him. An
+hour later the three vessels raised their anchors, set sail, and went
+off after giving a parting salute to the land, which was immediately
+answered by the battery at the point.
+
+They soon became confounded with the white mist on the horizon, and ere
+long disappeared.
+
+"Well," M. de Fontenay said to his officers as he returned to the
+government house, "you will see that I am not mistaken, and that this
+demon of a Montbarts really has a design on St. Domingo. Lord help the
+Spaniards!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+THE HATTO.
+
+
+We will leave the filibustering flotilla steering through the
+inextricable labyrinth of the Antilles, and transport ourselves to St.
+Domingo, as the French call it, Hispaniola as Columbus christened it,
+or Haiti as the Caribs, its first and only true owners, called it.
+
+And when we speak of the Caribs, we mean the black as well as the red,
+for it is a singular fact, of which many persons are ignorant, that
+some Caribs were black, and so thoroughly resembled the African race,
+that when the French planters settled at St. Vincent, and brought
+with them Negro slaves, the black Caribs, indignant at resembling men
+degraded by slavery, and fearful too lest at a later date their color
+might serve as a pretext to make them endure the same fate, fled into
+the wildest recesses of the forest, and in order to create a visible
+distinction between their race and the slaves brought to the island,
+they compressed the foreheads of their new born infants, so that they
+became completely flattened, which in the ensuing generation produced,
+as it were, a new race, and afterwards became the symbol of their
+independence.
+
+Before resuming our narrative, we ask the reader's permission to
+indulge in a little geography: as many of the incidents of the history
+of filibustering will take place at St. Domingo; it is indispensable
+that this island should be well known.
+
+St. Domingo, discovered on December 6, 1492, by Christopher Columbus,
+is, by the general verdict, the most lovely of all the Antilles. From
+the centre of the island rises a group of mountains, springing one from
+the other, from which issue three chains, running in three different
+directions. The longest stretches to the west, and passes through
+the middle of the island, dividing it into two nearly equal parts.
+The second chain runs north, and ends at Cape Fou. The third, less
+extensive than the preceding, at first follows the same direction, but
+ere long taking a curve to the south, terminates in Cape St. Mark.
+
+In the interior of the island there are several other mountain ranges,
+though much less considerable. The result of this multiplicity of
+mountains is that communication, especially at the time when our story
+is laid, was excessively difficult between the north and south of the
+isle.
+
+At the foot of all these mountains are immense plains covered with a
+luxurious vegetation; the mountains are intersected by ravines, which
+keep up a constant and beneficent humidity; they contain different
+metals, in addition to rock crystal, coal, sulphur, and quarries of
+porphyry, slate and marble, and are covered with forests of bananas,
+palms and mimosas of every species.
+
+Although the rivers are numerous, the largest are unfortunately
+scarcely navigable, and cannot be ascended by canoes for more than a
+few leagues; the principal ones are the Neyva, the Macoris, the Usaque,
+or river of Montecristo, the Ozama, the Juna and the Artibonite, the
+most extensive of all.
+
+Seen from the offing, the appearances of this island is enchanting; it
+resembles an immense bouquet of flowers rising from the bosom of the
+sea.
+
+We are not going to write the history of the colony of St. Domingo, but
+will merely say that this island so rich and fertile had, through the
+carelessness, cruelty and avarice of the Spaniards, fallen, one hundred
+and fifty years after its discovery, into such a state of wretchedness
+and misery, that the Spanish Government was compelled to send to this
+colony, which became not only unproductive but burdensome, funds to pay
+the troops and officials.
+
+While St. Domingo was thus slowly decaying, new colonists, brought by
+accident, established themselves on the north west of the island, and
+took possession of it, in spite of the resistance and opposition of the
+Spaniards.
+
+These new colonists were French adventurers, most of them expelled from
+St. Christopher on the descent of Admiral de Toledo on that colony, and
+who were wandering about the Antilles in search of a refuge.
+
+At the period of the discovery, the first Spaniards had left on the
+island some forty head of cattle; these animals, restored to liberty,
+rapidly multiplied and traversed the savannahs of the interior in
+immense herds; the French adventurers, on their arrival, did not dream
+of cultivating the soil, but, seduced by the attractions of a perilous
+chase, they occupied themselves exclusively in pursuing the bulls and
+the wild boars, which were also very numerous and extremely formidable.
+
+The sole occupation of these adventurers then was the chase; they
+preserved the hides of cattle and dried the meat by smoke in the Indian
+fashion. Hence comes the name of buccaneers, for the Caribs gave the
+name of _boucans_ to the spot where they smoked the flesh of the
+prisoners taken in war, and whom they ate after fattening them.
+
+We shall soon have occasion to return to this subject and enter into
+fuller details about these singular men.
+
+Still, in spite of their love of independence, these adventurers had
+understood the necessity of creating outlets for the sale of their
+hides. Hence they established several counters at Port Margot and Port
+de la Paix, which they regarded as the capital of their establishments;
+but their position was most precarious owing to the proximity of the
+Spaniards, who had hitherto been sole masters of the island, and would
+not consent to have them as such near neighbours; hence they constantly
+waged a savage war, which was the more cruel because quarter was not
+granted on either side.
+
+Such was the situation of St. Domingo at the time when we resume our
+narrative, about a fortnight after the departure of the filibustering
+fleet from St. Kitts under the command of Montbarts the Exterminator.
+
+The sun, already low on the horizon, was enormously lengthening the
+shadows of the trees, the evening breeze was rising, gently agitating
+the leaves and tall grass, when a man mounted on a powerful horse,
+and wearing the costume of the Spanish Campesinos, followed a scarce
+traced path which wound through the centre of a vast plain covered
+with magnificent plantations of sugar cane and coffee, and led to an
+elegant hatto, whose pretty mirador commanded the country for a long
+distance.
+
+This man appeared to be five and twenty years of age at the most;
+his features were handsome, but imprinted with an expression of
+insupportable pride and disdain; his very simple dress was only
+relieved by a long rapier, whose hilt of carved silver hung on his left
+hip and showed him to be a gentleman, as the nobility alone had the
+right to wear a sword.
+
+Four black slaves, half naked, and whose bodies glistened with
+perspiration, ran behind his horse, one carrying a richly damascened
+fusil, the second a game bag, and the two others a dead boar, whose
+tied feet were resting on a bamboo supported by the shoulders of the
+poor fellows.
+
+But the rider seemed to trouble himself but little about his
+companions, or rather his slaves, toward whom he did not deign to turn
+his head, even when speaking to them, which he did sometimes to ask
+them for directions in a harsh and contemptuous voice.
+
+He held in his band an embroidered handkerchief, with which he wiped
+away every moment the perspiration that inundated his forehead, and
+looked savagely around him, while urging his horse with the spur, to
+the great sorrow of the slaves who were forced to double their efforts
+to follow him.
+
+"Well," he at length asked in an ill-tempered tone, "shall we never
+arrive at this accursed hatto?"
+
+"In half an hour at the furthest, _mi amo_," a Negro answered
+respectfully, "there is the mirador over there."
+
+"What a deuce of a notion it was of my sister, to come and bury herself
+in this frightful hole instead of remaining quietly at her palace in
+St. Domingo. Women are mad, on my honour," he grumbled between his
+teeth.
+
+And he spiced this most ungallant observation by furiously digging the
+spurs into his horse, which started at a gallop.
+
+Still, he was rapidly approaching the hatto, all the details of which
+it was already easy to distinguish.
+
+It was a pretty and rather large mansion with a terraced roof,
+surmounted by a mirador and with a peristyle in front formed by four
+columns supporting a verandah.
+
+A thick hedge surrounded the house, which could only be reached by
+crossing a large garden; behind were the corrals to shut in the beasts,
+and the cottages of the Negroes, miserable, low and half ruined huts,
+built of clumsily intertwined branches and covered with palm leaves.
+
+This hatto, tranquil and solitary, in the midst of this plain of
+luxuriant vegetation, and half concealed by the trees that formed a
+screen of foliage, had a really enchanting aspect, which, however, did
+not seem to produce on the traveller's mind any other effect but that
+of profound weariness and lively annoyance.
+
+The arrival of the stranger had doubtless been signalled by the sentry
+stationed on the mirador to watch the surrounding country, for a
+horseman emerged at a gallop from the hatto, and came toward the small
+party composed of the gentleman we have described and the four slaves
+who still ran behind him, displaying their white, sharp teeth, and
+blowing like grampuses.
+
+The newcomer was a man of short stature, but his wide shoulders and
+solid limbs denoted far from common muscular strength, he was about
+forty years of age, his features were harsh and marked, and the
+expression of his countenance was sombre and crafty. A broad-brimmed
+straw hat nearly concealed his face, a cloak called a poncho, made
+of one piece, and with a hole in the middle to pass his head through,
+covered his shoulders; the hilt of a long knife peeped out of his right
+boot, a sabre hung on his left side, and a long fusil was lying across
+the front of his saddle. When he arrived within a few paces of the
+gentleman, he stopped his horse short on its hind legs, uncovered, and
+bowed respectfully.
+
+"_Santas tardes_, Seņor Don Sancho," he said in an obsequious voice.
+
+"Ah, ah! It is you, Birbomono," the young man said, as he carelessly
+touched his hat; "what the deuce are you doing here? I fancied you were
+hung long ago."
+
+"Your Excellency is jesting," the other replied, with an ill-tempered
+grimace, "I am the Seņora's Major-domo."
+
+"I compliment her on it, and you, too."
+
+"The Seņora was very anxious about your Excellency, and I was
+preparing, by her orders, to make a battue in the neighbourhood. She
+will be delighted to see you arrive without misadventure."
+
+"What misadventure?" the young man said, as he loosened his rein; "What
+do you mean, scamp? And what had I to fear on the roads?"
+
+"Your Excellency cannot be ignorant that the ladrones infest the
+savannahs."
+
+The young man burst into a laugh.
+
+"The ladrones! What a pleasant story you are telling me, too; come, run
+and announce my arrival to my sister, without further chattering."
+
+The Major-domo did not let the order be repeated, but bowed, and set
+off at a gallop.
+
+Ten minutes later, Don Sancho dismounted in front of the peristyle of
+the hatto, where a young lady of rare beauty, but cadaverous pallor,
+and who appeared hardly able to keep up, as she was so weak and ill,
+was awaiting his arrival.
+
+This lady was the sister of Seņor Don Sancho, and the owner of the
+hatto.
+
+The two young people embraced each other for a long while without
+exchanging a word, and then Don Sancho offered his arm to his sister,
+and entered the house with her, leaving the Major-domo to look after
+his horse and baggage.
+
+The young gentleman led his sister to an easy chair, fetched one for
+himself, rolled it up to her side, and sat down.
+
+"At last," she said a moment later, in an affectionate voice, as
+she took one of the young man's hands in her own, "I see you again,
+brother; you are here, near me--how glad I am to see you."
+
+"My dear Clara," Don Sancho replied, as he kissed her forehead, "we
+have been separated for nearly a year."
+
+"Alas!" she murmured.
+
+"And during that year many things have doubtless happened, of which you
+will inform me?"
+
+"Alas! My life during this year may be summed up in two words--I have
+suffered."
+
+"Poor sister, how changed you are in so little time, I could hardly
+recognize you; I came to St. Domingo with such joy, and no sooner had I
+landed than I went to your palace; your husband, who has not altered,
+and whom I found as heavy and silent as usual, with an increased dose
+of importance, doubtless the result of his high position, told me that
+you were not very well, and that the physicians had ordered you country
+air."
+
+"It is true," she said, with a sad smile.
+
+"Yes; but I fancied you merely indisposed, and I find you dying."
+
+"Let us not talk of that, Sancho, I implore you; what matter if I am
+ill? Did you receive my letter?"
+
+"Had I not, should I be here? Two hours after its receipt I set out;
+for three days," he continued with a smile, "I have been going uphill
+and down dale, along frightful roads, to reach you the sooner."
+
+"Thanks, oh thanks, Sancho; your presence renders me very happy--you
+will remain for a while with me, will you not?"
+
+"As long as you like, dear sister, for I am a free man."
+
+"Free!" she repeated, looking at him with an air of amazement.
+
+"Well, yes; his Excellency, the Duc de Peņaflor, my illustrious father
+and yours, the Viceroy of New Spain, has deigned to grant me an
+unlimited leave."
+
+At her father's name a slight shudder ran over the young lady's person,
+and her eyes became dimmed with tears.
+
+"Ah," she said, "my father is well?"
+
+"Better than ever."
+
+"And has he spoken about me?"
+
+The young man bit his lips.
+
+"He spoke to me about you very little," he said; "but I in revenge,
+said a good deal about you, which re-established the balance: I even
+believe that he granted me the leave I asked in great measure to free
+himself from my chattering."
+
+Doņa Clara hung her head without replying, and her brother fixed upon
+her a glance full of tender pity.
+
+"Let us talk about yourself," he said.
+
+"No, no, Sancho; we had better talk about _him_." she replied
+hesitatingly.
+
+"Of _him!_" he said in a hollow voice, and with a groan; "Alas, poor
+sister, what can I tell you? All my efforts have been vain; I have
+discovered nothing."
+
+"Yes, yes;" she murmured, "his measures were well taken to make him
+disappear. Oh, Heaven! Heaven!" she exclaimed, clasping her hands
+wildly, "Will you not take pity on me?"
+
+"Calm yourself, I implore you, sister; I will see, I will seek--I will
+redouble my efforts, and perhaps I shall at length succeed--"
+
+"No," she interrupted him, "never, never shall we be able to effect
+anything; he is condemned, condemned by my father; that implacable man
+will never restore him to me! Oh! I know my father better than you do;
+you are a man, Sancho, you can try to struggle against him, but he has
+crushed me, crushed me at a single blow; he broke my heart by a deadly
+pressure in making me the innocent accomplice of an infernal vengeance!
+Then he coldly reproached me with a dishonour which is his work, and
+at the same blow eternally destroyed the happiness of three beings who
+would have loved him, and whose future he held in his hands."
+
+"And you, my dear Clara, do you know nothing--have you discovered
+nothing?"
+
+"Yes," she replied, looking at him fixedly, "I have made a horrible
+discovery."
+
+"You terrify me, Clara; what do you mean? Explain yourself."
+
+"Not at present, my dear Sancho, not at present, for the time has not
+arrived; so be patient. You know that I never had any secrets from you,
+for you alone have always loved me. I wrote to you to come that I
+might reveal this secret to you: in three days at the latest you shall
+know all, and then--"
+
+"Then?" he said, looking at her intently.
+
+"Then you shall measure, as I do, the immense depth of the gulf into
+which I have fallen; but enough of this subject for the present, I am
+suffering terribly, so let us talk of something else."
+
+"Most willingly, my dear Clara; but what shall we talk about?"
+
+"Well, whatever you like, dear, the rain, the fine weather, your
+journey, or anything of that sort."
+
+Don Sancho understood that his sister was suffering from extreme
+nervous excitement, and that he would aggravate her already very
+serious condition by not acceding to her wishes; hence he made no
+objection, but readily yielded to her caprice.
+
+"Well then," he said, "my dear Clara, since that is the case, I
+will take advantage of the opportunity to ask you to give me some
+information."
+
+"What is it brother? I live in great seclusion as you see, and doubt
+whether I can satisfy you, but speak all the same."
+
+"You know, little sister, that I am a stranger in Hispaniola, where I
+only arrived four days ago, and then for the first time."
+
+"That is true; you have never visited the island; what do you think of
+it?"
+
+"It is frightful, that is to say admirable; frightful as regards roads,
+and admirable for scenery: you see that my proposition is not so
+illogical as it at first appeared."
+
+"In truth the roads are not convenient."
+
+"Say that there are none, and you will tell the truth.";
+
+"You are severe."
+
+"No, I am only just; if you had seen what magnificent roads we possess
+in Mexico, you would be of my opinion; but that is not the point at
+present."
+
+"What is it then?"
+
+"Why, the information I want of you."
+
+"Ah, that is true, I forgot it; but explain yourself, I am listening."
+
+"This is it. Just imagine when I embarked at Veracruz to come here, all
+the persons to whom I announced my departure invariably answered me
+with a desperate agreement:--'Ah! you are going to Hispaniola, Seņor
+Don Sancho de Peņaflor, hum, hum, take care.' On board the vessel I
+constantly heard the officers muttering among themselves 'keep a good
+watch, take care.' At last I reached St. Domingo; my first care was,
+as I told you, to go to the Count de Bejar, your husband, who received
+me as kindly as he is capable of doing; but when I announced my
+intention of coming to join you here, he frowned, and his first words
+were 'the deuce, Don Sancho, you want to go to the hatto, take care,
+take care.' It was enough to drive me mad; this sinister warning which
+everywhere and at all hours echoed in my ears infuriated me. I did
+not try to obtain any explanation from your husband, as I should not
+have succeeded; but I inwardly resolved to get to the bottom of this
+ill-omened phrase so soon as the opportunity presented itself. It did
+present itself soon, but I am no further advanced than I was before,
+and hence apply to you to solve the riddle."
+
+"But I am waiting for your explanation, for I confess that up to the
+present I have not understood a word you have been saying."
+
+"Very good, let me finish. I had scarce set out with the slaves your
+husband lent me, when I saw the scamps constantly turn their heads
+to the right and left, with a look of terror. At first I attached no
+great importance to this; but they ran away on seeing a magnificent
+wild boar. I felt a fancy to shoot it, which I did by the way, and have
+brought it here. When these unlucky Negroes saw me cock my fusil they
+fell at my knees, clasping their hands with terror, and exclaiming in
+a most lamentable voice,--'Take care, Excellency, take care!' 'What
+must I take care of, you scoundrels?' I exclaimed in exasperation.
+'The _ladrones_, Excellency, the _ladrones_!' I could obtain no other
+explanation from them but this; but I hope, little sister, that you
+will be kind enough to tell me who these formidable ladrones are."
+
+He bent over her; but Doņa Clara, with her eyes widely dilated, her
+arms stretched out and her features distorted, fixed upon him such an
+extraordinary look, that he recoiled in horror.
+
+"The ladrones, the ladrones!" she twice repeated in a shrill voice;
+"Oh! have pity, brother."
+
+She rose to her full height, advanced a few paces mechanically, and
+fell fainting on the floor.
+
+"What is the meaning of this?" the young man asked himself, as he
+rushed forward to raise her.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+THE MAJOR-DOMO'S STORY.
+
+
+Don Sancho, feeling very anxious about the state in which he saw his
+sister, hastily summoned her women who at once flocked around her. He
+confided her to their care, and retired to the apartment prepared for
+him, while ordering that he should be immediately warned so soon as
+Doņa Clara displayed any signs of recovery.
+
+Don Sancho de Peņaflor was a charming cavalier, gay, merry, enjoying
+life and repulsing with the egotism of his age and rank, every grief
+and even every annoyance.
+
+Belonging to one of the first families of the Spanish aristocracy,
+destined to be one day immensely rich, and through his name to hold
+the highest offices and make one of those magnificent marriages of
+convenience, which render diplomatists so happy, by leaving their minds
+perfectly free for grand political combinations,--he strove, as far
+as lay in his power, to check the beating of his heart, and not to
+trouble by any unusual passion, the bright serenity of his existence.
+Captain in the army, while awaiting something better, and to have the
+air of doing something, he had followed his father as aide-de-camp to
+Mexico, when the latter was appointed viceroy of New Spain. But, being
+yet too young to regard life seriously and be ambitious, he had turned
+his attention to gambling and flirtations since his arrival in America,
+which greatly annoyed the Duke, for as the latter had passed the age of
+love, he had no mercy for young men sacrificing to the idol which he
+had himself worshipped for so long.
+
+Don Sancho was generally an excellent hearted fellow and good
+companion, but affected, like all the Spaniards of that period, and
+perhaps of the present, by caste prejudices, regarding the Negroes and
+Indians as beasts of burden, created for his use, and disdaining to
+conceal the contempt and disgust he felt for these disinherited races.
+
+In a word, Don Sancho, in accordance with the precept of his family,
+always looked above him and never below; he endured his equals, but
+established an impassable barrier of pride and disdain between himself
+and his inferiors.
+
+Still, perhaps unconsciously,--for we will not give him the merit of
+it,--a tender feeling had glided into the cold atmosphere in which
+he was condemned to live, had penetrated to his heart, and at times
+threatened to overthrow all his transcendental theories about egotism.
+
+This feeling was nothing else than the affection he felt for his
+sister,--an affection which might pass for adoration, for it was so
+truly devoted, respectful and disinterested; to please his sister he
+would have attempted impossibilities; a simple word that fell from
+her lips rendered him pliant and obedient as a slave; a desire she
+manifested became at once an order for him as serious, and perhaps more
+so, than if it had emanated from the King of Spain and the Indies,
+although that magnificent potentate haughtily flattered himself that
+the sun never set on his dominions.
+
+The first words the Count uttered so soon as he found himself alone in
+his apartment, will show his character better than anything we can add.
+
+"Well," he exclaimed as he sank despairingly into an easy chair,
+"instead of passing a few days agreeably here as I expected, I shall
+be obliged to listen to Clara's complaints and console her; the deuce
+take unhappy people, it really seems as if they had made agreement to
+trouble my tranquillity."
+
+At the expiration of about three-quarters of an hour, a black slave
+came to inform him that Doņa Clara had regained her senses, but still
+felt so weak and faint, that she begged him to refrain from seeing her
+that evening.
+
+The young man was in his heart well pleased at the liberty granted him
+by his sister, and which dispensed him from recurring to a conversation
+which possessed no charm for him.
+
+"Very good," he said to the slave, "give my respects to my sister, and
+order my supper to be served here; you will at the same time request
+the Major-domo to come to me as I want to speak to him. Begone!"
+
+The slave went out and left him alone.
+
+The young Count then threw himself back in his chair, stretched out
+his legs and plunged, not into any reverie, but into that state of
+somnolency which is neither waking or sleeping, during which the mind
+seems to wander in unknown regions, and which the Spaniards call a
+siesta.
+
+While he was in this state, the slaves laid the table, being careful
+not to disturb him, and covered it with exquisite dishes.
+
+But soon the steam of the dishes placed before him recalled the young
+man to the reality, he drew himself up and seated himself at the table.
+
+"Why has not the Major-domo come," he asked, "have you neglected to
+tell him?"
+
+"Pardon, Excellency, but the Major-domo is absent at this moment," a
+slave respectfully answered.
+
+"Absent--for what motive?"
+
+"He is paying his usual evening visit to the grounds, but will soon
+return; if your Excellency will be good enough to have a little
+patience, you will soon see him."
+
+"Very good, although I do not understand the urgency of this visit.
+There are no wild beasts here, I suppose?"
+
+"No, Excellency, thank heaven!"
+
+"Then, what is the meaning of these precautions?"
+
+"They are meant to guard the house from the attacks of the ladrones,
+Excellency."
+
+"The ladrones again," he exclaimed, bounding from his seat, "why, it
+must be a wager! Everybody seems to have agreed to mystify me, heaven
+forgive me."
+
+At this moment spurs could be heard clattering outside the room.
+
+"Here is the Major-domo, Excellency," one of the Negroes said.
+
+"That is lucky, let him come in."
+
+Birbomono appeared, took off his hat, bowed respectfully to the Count,
+and waited to be addressed.
+
+"Confound it," the young man said to him, "I asked for you an hour or
+more ago."
+
+"I am in despair at it, Excellency, but I was only told of it this very
+instant."
+
+"I know, I know. Have you dined?"
+
+"Not yet, Excellency."
+
+"Well then, seat yourself there, opposite to me."
+
+The Major-domo who knew the Count's haughty character, hesitated; he
+did not at all understand the condescension on his part.
+
+"Sit down, I say," the young man replied; "we are in the country, so it
+is of no consequence; besides, I want to talk with you."
+
+The Major-domo then took the place pointed out to him, without further
+pressing.
+
+The meal was short--for the Count ate without uttering a single word;
+when it was ended, he thrust away his plate, drank a glass of water
+after the Spanish fashion, lit an excellent cigar and gave another to
+the Major-domo.
+
+"Smoke, I permit it," he said.
+
+Birbomono gratefully accepted; but feeling more and more astonished, he
+could not refrain from asking himself mentally, what important motive
+his young master could have for treating him so condescendingly.
+When the table was cleared and the slaves had withdrawn, the two
+men remained alone. The night was magnificent and the atmosphere
+marvellously clear; a multitude of stars floated in æther, a sweet warm
+breeze penetrated through the windows, left expressly open, a profound
+silence lay over the landscape, and from the spot where the two men
+were seated, they perceived the dark mass of forest trees that closed
+the horizon.
+
+"Now," said the Count, as he puffed out a cloud of bluish smoke, "let
+us talk."
+
+"Very good, Excellency," the Major-domo replied.
+
+"I have several things to ask you, Birbomono; you know me, I think, and
+that whether I threaten or promise, I always carry out what I say?"
+
+"I am aware of it, Excellency!"
+
+"Very good, that being settled, I will come to the fact without
+further preamble. I have certain very important information to ask of
+you; answering my questions is not betraying your mistress, who is my
+sister, and whom I love before all else; on the contrary, it is perhaps
+rendering her a service indirectly. Besides, if you refused to tell
+me what I want to know, I should learn it from another quarter, and
+you would forfeit any advantage to be derived from your frankness; you
+understand me, I suppose?"
+
+"Perfectly, Excellency."
+
+"Well then, what do you intend doing."
+
+"My lord, I am devoted body and soul to your family, hence, I shall
+consider it a duty to answer, as best I can, all the questions you may
+deign to ask me, for I feel convinced that in questioning me, you have
+no other motive but that of being agreeable to my mistress."
+
+"It is impossible to argue more correctly, Birbomono, I have always
+said that you were an intelligent man; and this answer proves to
+me that I was not mistaken. Now, I will begin, but let us proceed
+regularly, so inform me of what occurred between my sister and her
+husband, up to her arrival here; and the motives for her quitting St.
+Domingo."
+
+"You know, Excellency, my lord Count de Bejar of Sousa, the husband of
+your lady sister and my master, is a gentleman not naturally given to
+speaking, but kind and sincerely attached to his wife, whose every wish
+he strives to satisfy, without even venturing a remark. At St. Domingo
+the Countess lived in the most absolute retirement, constantly shut
+up in her remotest apartments, to which only her women, her confessor
+and her physician had access. The Count visited her every morning and
+evening, remained about a quarter of an hour with her, conversing on
+indifferent subjects, and then withdrew."
+
+"Hum! This mode of life of my dear sister appears to me rather
+monotonous; did it last long?"
+
+"For several months, Excellency, and it would doubtless still be going
+on, had it not been for an event which no one but myself knows, and
+which induced her to come here."
+
+"Ah, ah, and what was the event, if you please?"
+
+"I will tell you, Excellency; one day a ship of our nation arrived
+at St. Domingo; during its passage through the islands, it had been
+attacked by the ladrones, from whom it had escaped by a miracle,
+capturing several of them."
+
+"Ah! I must stop you here," the Count exclaimed suddenly sitting up;
+"before going further, one word about these ladrones, of whom persons
+are incessantly talking, and no one knows. Do you know what they are?"
+
+"Certainly I do, Excellency."
+
+"At last," the Count added joyously, "I have at length found what I
+wanted. As you know, I suppose you will tell me?"
+
+"Most willingly, Excellency."
+
+"Go on."
+
+"Oh! It will not be long, Excellency."
+
+"All the worse."
+
+"But I believe that it will be interesting."
+
+"All the better then, make haste."
+
+"These ladrones are English and French adventurers, whose courage
+exceeds all belief; lying in ambush among the rocks in the straits
+through which our vessels must pass, for they have vowed a war of
+extermination against our nation, they dart out in wretched canoes half
+full of water, leap on board the ship they have surprised, capture
+it and carry it off. The injury done our marine by these ladrones is
+immense; any ship attacked by them, with but few exceptions, may be
+regarded as lost."
+
+"Confusion! That is very serious; has nothing been done to clear the
+seas from these daring pirates?"
+
+"Pardon me, Excellency; Don Fernando de Toledo, admiral of the fleet,
+sacked, by the king's orders, the island of St. Christopher, the refuge
+of the ladrones, carried off all he could seize, and did not leave one
+stone on the other in the colony they had founded."
+
+"Ah, ah!" said the Count, rubbing his hands, "That was well done, it
+appears to me."
+
+"No, Excellency, and for this reason. These ladrones, scattered but not
+destroyed, spread over the other islands; some of them, it is true,
+returned to St. Christopher, but the greater part of them had the
+audacity to seek a refuge in Hispaniola itself."
+
+"Yes, but they have been expelled, I hope."
+
+"It has been tried, at any rate, Excellency, but without success; since
+that period they have managed to maintain themselves in the part of
+the island they invaded, and have resisted all the forces sent against
+them. Instead of being assailed they have become assailants, and pushed
+on to the Spanish frontier, burning, plundering and sacking everything
+they met on their passage; they did this the more easily, because they
+inspire our soldiers with extreme terror, who as soon as they see them
+or even hear them, take to flight without looking behind them. This
+has reached such a pitch, Excellency, that the Count de Bejar, our
+governor, has been compelled to take their fusils from the detachments
+called the Fifties, ordered to protect the frontiers, and arm them with
+lances."
+
+"What! Take away their fusils! And for what motive? Great heaven! this
+seems to me almost too incredible."
+
+"Still, it can be easy understood, Excellency--the soldiers feel so
+great a terror of the ladrones, that when they found themselves in
+regions frequented by them, and were consequently afraid of meeting
+them, they discharged their fusils, expressly to warn them of their
+presence, and thus invite them to retire, which the ladrones never
+failed to do; and knowing in this way the position of the soldiers,
+they went off to plunder in another direction, certain of not being
+disturbed."
+
+"It is almost incredible. Do you fear their visit here?"
+
+"They have not yet come on this side; still, it is as well to be on
+one's guard."
+
+"I believe so--that is excessively prudent, and I approve of it; but
+now let us return to the story you were telling me when I interrupted
+you to give me this valuable information; you were saying that a
+Spanish man-o'-war had arrived at Saint Domingo, having on board
+several ladrones as prisoners."
+
+"Yes, Excellency. Now, you must know that the ladrones are hung so soon
+as they are caught."
+
+"That measure is very wise."
+
+"These were reserved to make an example of on the island itself, and
+terrify their accomplices; they were, therefore, landed, and placed
+in Capilla, while awaiting their execution. It was Fray Arsenio who
+undertook to reconcile the wretches with Heaven if it were possible."
+
+"A rude task; but who is Fray Arsenio?"
+
+"The confessor of my lady Countess."
+
+"Very good; proceed."
+
+"Just imagine, Excellency, that these ladrones are very pious men;
+they never attack a vessel without offering up prayers to Heaven,
+and sing the Magnificat and other church hymns while boarding; hence
+Fray Arsenio had no difficulty in making them perform their religious
+duties. The Governor had decided that, in order that the example
+should benefit the rest, these ladrones should be hung on the Spanish
+frontier; they were, therefore, taken out of prison, securely bound,
+and traversed the town in carts, guarded by a numerous escort, and
+passing through the crowds, who overwhelmed them with maledictions
+and cries of anger and threatening. But the ladrones seemed to pay
+no attention to this manifestation of the public hatred; they were
+five in number, young, and apparently very powerful. All at once, at
+the moment when the carts, which were going very slowly, owing to the
+crowd, arrived in front of the Governor's palace, the ladrones rose
+altogether, uttered a loud cry, and, leaping into the street, took
+refuge in the palace, whose guard they disarmed, and closed the gates
+after them; they had succeeded in cutting their bonds, no one knew
+how. There was at first a moment of profound stupor among the crowd on
+seeing such a desperate deed, but ere long the soldiers regained their
+courage, and marched boldly on the palace, where the ladrones received
+them with musket shots. The fight was bravely carried on on both sides,
+but all the disadvantage was on the side of our men, who were exposed
+to the shots of invisible enemies, and renowned marksmen, every shot
+from whom brought down a victim. Some twenty dead, and as many wounded,
+were already lying on the square; the soldiers hesitated to continue
+this deadly contest, when the Governor, warned of what was going on,
+came up at full speed, followed by his officers. Fortunately for him,
+the Count was not at home when the ladrones seized his palace; but the
+Countess was there, and the Count trembled lest she should fall into
+the hands of these villains. He summoned them to surrender; they only
+replied by a discharge, which killed several persons by the Governor's
+side, and slightly wounded himself."
+
+"The daring villains!" the Count muttered--"I hope they were hung."
+
+"No, Excellency; after holding all the forces of the town in check for
+two hours, they proposed a capitulation, which was accepted."
+
+"What!" the Count exclaimed, "Accepted! Oh! This is too much."
+
+"It is the exact truth, however, Excellency; they threatened, unless
+they were allowed to retire in peace, to blow themselves up with the
+palace, which would have entailed the general ruin of the town, and to
+cut the throats of the prisoners in their power--that of the Countess
+first of all; the Governor tore out his hair with rage, but they only
+laughed."
+
+"Why they are not men!" the Count exclaimed, stamping his foot
+passionately.
+
+"No, Excellency, I told you, they are demons. The Count's officers
+persuaded him to accept the capitulation; the bandits insisted that the
+streets should be cleared for their passage; they had horses brought
+for them, and two for the Countess and one of her servants, whom they
+retained as hostages till they were in safety; and they went out well
+armed, leading in their midst my poor mistress, trembling with terror,
+and more dead, than alive. The ladrones did not hurry, they went at
+a foot pace, laughing and talking together, turning round, and even
+stopping now and then to stare at the crowd, which followed them at a
+respectful distance. They left the town in this way, but religiously
+kept their promise; two hours later, my lady the Countess, to whom they
+had behaved with great courtesy, returned to Saint Domingo, accompanied
+to the palace by the acclamations and glad shouts of the populace,
+who fancied her lost. The next day the Count ordered me to accompany
+the Countess here, where the physicians recommended her to live for a
+while, in order to rest from the terrible emotions she had doubtless
+experienced while she was in the power of the bandits."
+
+"And since your installation at the hatto I presume nothing
+extraordinary has occurred?"
+
+"Yes, Excellency, something has happened, and that is why I told
+you at the beginning that I alone knew the event which had modified
+my mistress's mode of living. One of the ladrones had a very long
+interview with her before they left her, an interview I saw, too far
+off to hear what was said, it is true, but near enough to judge of the
+interest she felt in it, and the impression it produced on her, for I
+had followed my mistress, resolved not to abandon her, and help her,
+were it necessary, at the risk of my life."
+
+"That is the behaviour of a good servant, Birbomono, and I thank you
+for it."
+
+"I only did my duty, Excellency; so soon as the ladrones left her
+alone I approached my mistress, and escorted her back to the town. A
+few days after our arrival here my mistress dressed herself in man's
+clothes, left the hatto unseen, only followed by myself and Fray
+Arsenio, who had refused to leave her, and led us to a secluded bay
+on the coast, where one of the ladrones was awaiting us. This man had
+another long conversation with my mistress, then, bidding us get into
+a canoe, he took us to a Spanish brigantine, tacking in sight of the
+coast. I afterwards learnt that this brigantine had been freighted by
+Fray Arsenio by my mistress's orders. So soon as we were on board this
+vessel, sail was set, and we put out to sea; the _ladrón_ had returned
+ashore in the canoe."
+
+"Nonsense!" the young man violently interjected; "What fables are you
+telling me, Birbomono?"
+
+"Excellency, I am only telling you the truth you asked of me, without
+adding or omitting anything."
+
+"Well, I am willing to believe you, incredible though the whole affair
+appears."
+
+"Shall I break off here, Excellency, or continue my narration?"
+
+"Go on, in the Fiend's name! Perhaps some light will eventually issue
+from all this chaos."
+
+"Our brigantine began tacking between the islands, at a great risk
+of being snapped up as it passed by the ladrones; but, through some
+incomprehensible miracle, it succeeded in passing unseen, so that in
+eight days it reached an island in the form of a mountain, called
+Nevis, I believe, and only separated by a narrow channel from St.
+Kitts."
+
+"But, from what you told me yourself, St, Christopher is the den of the
+ladrones."
+
+"Yes, Excellency, and so it is; the brigantine did not anchor, it
+merely backed sails, and lowered a boat. My mistress, the monk, and
+I, got into it, and we were landed on the island; but, as she put her
+little foot on land, the Countess turned to me, and fixing on me a
+glance which nailed me to the boat I was on the point of leaving, she
+said--'Here is a letter, which you will carry to St. Christopher, there
+you will inquire for a celebrated Chief of the ladrones, whose name
+is Montbarts: you will have him pointed out to you; follow him, and
+place this letter in his own hands. Go, I count on your fidelity.' What
+could I do? Only obey: you will agree with me, Excellency. The sailors
+in the boat, as if warned beforehand, conveyed me to St. Christopher,
+where I landed unseen: I was lucky enough to meet this Montbarts, and
+hand him the letter, and then I slipped away; the boat which had been
+waiting for me took me back to Nevis, and the Seņora thanked me. At
+sunset Montbarts arrived at Nevis; he talked for nearly an hour with
+the monk, while Doņa Clara was concealed in a tent, and then went away:
+a few minutes later, the Countess and Fray Arsenio returned aboard the
+brigantine, which conveyed us back to Hispaniola with the same good
+fortune. The monk remained in the French part of the island, for some
+reason I do not know, while my mistress and I, as soon as we landed,
+returned to the hatto, where we arrived just ten days ago."
+
+"And then?" the Count asked, seeing that the Major-domo was silent.
+
+"That is all, Excellency," he answered; "since then Doņa Clara has
+remained shut up in her apartments, and nothing has happened to trouble
+the monotony of our existence."
+
+The Count rose without replying, walked up and down the room in
+considerable agitation, and then turned to Birbomono.
+
+"Very good, Major-domo," he said to him--"I thank you; keep your mouth
+shut about this, and now you can retire. Remember, that no one in the
+household must suspect the importance of the conversation we have had
+together."
+
+"I shall be dumb, Excellency," the Major-domo answered, and retired
+with a respectful bow.
+
+"It is evident," the young man muttered, so soon as he was alone, "that
+there is at the bottom of this affair a frightful secret, of which my
+sister in all probability will condemn me to take my share. I am afraid
+that I have fallen into a trap. Hang it all! Why could not Clara let me
+live at my ease in Saint Domingo?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+ACROSS COUNTRY.
+
+
+On the morrow, Doņa Clara appeared, if not completely recovered from
+her previous emotion, at least in a far more satisfactory state of
+health than her brother had dared to hope after the fainting fit of
+which he had been witness.
+
+No allusion was made, however, by one or the other to the previous
+evening's conversation. Doņa Clara, although very pale, and excessively
+weak, affected gaiety and even merriment; she carried matters so far as
+even to take a short walk in the garden, leaning on her brother's arm.
+
+But the latter was not deceived by this conduct; he understood that
+his sister, vexed at having talked to him too frankly, was trying
+to lead him astray as to her condition, by affecting a gaiety far
+from her heart. Still, he did not let anything be seen, and when the
+great heat of the day had passed, he pretended a desire to visit the
+surrounding country, in order to give his sister a little liberty:
+taking his fusil, he mounted his horse, and rode out, accompanied by
+the Major-domo, who offered to act as his guide during his excursion.
+
+Doņa Clara made but a faint effort to keep him at home; in her heart
+she was pleased to be alone for a few hours.
+
+The young man galloped across country with a feverish impatience.
+He was in a state of excitement, for which he could not account to
+himself; in spite of his egotism, he felt himself interested in his
+sister's misfortune; so much humble resignation involuntarily affected
+him, and he would have been happy to infuse a little joy into this
+heart crushed by grief; on the other hand, the Major-domo's singular
+story incessantly returned to his mind, and aroused his curiosity
+in the highest degree. Still he would not for anything in the world
+have questioned his sister about the obscure parts of this narrative,
+or merely let her know that he was aware of her relations with the
+filibusters of St. Kitts.
+
+The two men had entered the savannah territory, and talking of
+indifferent topics; but as the Count could not get rid of the
+recollection of what the Major-domo had told him, he turned sharply
+toward him at a certain moment.
+
+"By the way," he asked him sharply, "I have not yet seen my sister's
+confessor. How do you call him?"
+
+"Fray Arsenio, Excellency; he is a Franciscan monk."
+
+"Yes, that's it, Fray Arsenio. Well, why does he persist in remaining
+invisible?"
+
+"For an excellent reason, Excellency; the reason I had the honour of
+explaining to you last evening."
+
+"That is possible--I do not say you did not; but everything is so
+confused in my mind," he said, with feigned indifference, "that I no
+longer remember what you told me on the subject; you will therefore
+oblige me by repeating it."
+
+"That is easy, Excellency. Fray Arsenio left us at the moment when we
+landed, and has not reappeared at the hatto since."
+
+"That is singular: and does not Doņa Clara appear alarmed and vexed at
+so long an absence?"
+
+"Not at all, Excellency; the seņora never speaks of Fray Arsenio, and
+does not inquire whether he has returned or not."
+
+"It is strange," the young man muttered to himself; "what is the
+meaning of this mysterious absence?"
+
+After this aside, the Count suddenly broke off the conversation and
+resumed the chase. They had been absent from the hatto for some hours,
+and had insensibly gone a very considerable distance; the sun was
+nearing the horizon, and the Count was preparing to turn back, when
+suddenly a great noise of breaking branches was heard at the skirt of
+the forest, from which they were only separated by a few shrubs, and
+several wild oxen dashed on to the savannah, pursued, or, to speak more
+correctly, hunted, by a dozen hounds, which barked furiously while
+snapping at them.
+
+The oxen, seven or eight in number, passed like a tornado two horse
+lengths from the Count, to whom this unexpected apparition caused such
+a surprise, that he remained for a moment motionless, not knowing what
+to do.
+
+The savage animals, still harassed by the hounds, which did not leave
+them, made a sudden wheel, and turning back, seemed trying to enter the
+forest at the spot where they had left it; but they had hardly resumed
+their flight in that direction, when a fusil was discharged, and a
+bull, struck in the head, fell dead on the ground.
+
+At the same instant a man emerged in his turn from the forest, and
+walked up to the animal, which was lying motionless and nearly hidden
+in the tall grass, without appearing to notice the two Spaniards, and
+reloading as he walked along the long fusil he had, in all probability,
+just employed so adroitly.
+
+This hunting episode was accomplished more quickly than it has taken
+us to describe it, so that Don Sancho had not quite recovered from his
+surprise, when the Major-domo bent down to his side and said in a low
+voice, half choked with terror--
+
+"Excellency, you wanted to see a _ladrón_. Well, look carefully at that
+man, he is one."
+
+Don Sancho was endowed with undaunted courage. When his first surprise
+had passed, he became again completely master of himself, and regained
+all his coolness.
+
+After securing his seat on the saddle, he advanced slowly toward the
+stranger, while examining him curiously. He was a man still young, of
+middle height, but well and powerfully built; his regular, majestic,
+and rather handsome features displayed boldness and intelligence. Cold,
+heat, rain, and sunshine to which he had doubtless for a long time been
+exposed, had given his face a decided bistre hue; and although he wore
+his full beard, it was cut rather short.
+
+His dress, of almost primitive simplicity, so to speak, was composed of
+two shirts, breeches, and jacket, all of canvas, but so covered with
+spots of blood and grease, that it was impossible to recognise its
+original colour. He wore a leathern belt, from which hung on one side
+a case of crocodile skin, containing four knives and a bayonet; on the
+other, a large calabash, stopped with wax, and a hide bag containing
+bullets. He wore across his shoulders a small coat of fine canvas,
+rolled up and reduced to its smallest compass; and in lieu of shoes,
+boots made of untanned oxhide. His long hair, fastened with a _víbora_
+skin, escaped from under a fur cap which covered his head, and was
+protected by a peak in front.
+
+His fusil, whose barrel was four and a half feet in length, could be
+easily recognized through the strange form of its stock, as turned out
+by Brachie, of Dieppe, who with Gélin, of Nantes, had the monopoly of
+manufacturing arms for the adventurers. This fusil was of the calibre
+of sixteen to the pound.
+
+The appearance of this man, thus armed and accoutred, had really
+something imposing and formidable about it.
+
+You instinctively felt yourself in face of a powerful nature, of a
+chosen organization, accustomed only to reckon on oneself, and which no
+danger was great enough to astound or even affect.
+
+While continuing to advance toward the bull, he took a side glance at
+the two horsemen; then, without paying any further attention to them,
+he whistled to his dogs, which at once gave up their pursuit of the
+herd, and after drawing a knife from his sheath, he began skinning the
+animal lying at his feet.
+
+At this moment the Count came up to his side.
+
+"Eh," he said to him in a sharp voice, "who are you, and what do you
+here?"
+
+The buccaneer, for he was one, raised his head, looked sarcastically
+at the man who addressed him so peremptorily, and then shrugged his
+shoulders with disdain.
+
+"Who I am?" he replied, mockingly; "You see that I am a buccaneer, and
+what I am doing. I am flaying a bull I have slain. What next?"
+
+"I want to know by what right you hunt on my land?"
+
+"Ah! This land is yours? I am very glad to hear it. Well, I am hunting
+here because I think proper. If that does not suit you, I feel sorry
+for it, my pretty gentleman."
+
+"What do you mean?" the Count continued, haughtily; "And how do you
+dare to assume such a tone with me?"
+
+"Probably, because it is the one that suits me best," the buccaneer
+replied, drawing himself up quickly; "go your road, my fine sir, and
+take some good advice; if you do not wish your handsome jerkin to be
+filled with broken bones within five minutes, do not trouble yourself
+about me more than I do about you, and leave me to attend to my
+business."
+
+"I will not allow it," the young man answered, violently; "the land you
+are trespassing on so impertinently belongs to my sister, Doņa Clara de
+Bejar; I will not suffer it to be invaded with impunity by vagabonds
+of your description. _ĄViva Dios!_ You will decamp at once, my master,
+or, if not--"
+
+"If not?" the buccaneer asked, with eyes flashing fire, while the
+Major-domo, foreseeing a catastrophe, prudently glided behind his
+master.
+
+As for the latter, he stood cool and impassive before the buccaneer,
+resolved to take the offensive vigorously, if he saw him make the
+slightest suspicious gesture. But, contrary to all expectation, the
+adventurer's menacing look became almost suddenly calm, his features
+resumed their usual expression of nonchalance; and it was in an almost
+friendly tone, in spite of its roughness, that he said--
+
+"Halloh! What name was that you mentioned, if you please?"
+
+"That of the owner of this savannah."
+
+"I suppose so," the adventurer replied, laughing; "but may I ask you to
+repeat the name?"
+
+"That is of no consequence, my master," the young man said
+disdainfully, for he fancied that his adversary was backing out of the
+quarrel; "the name I uttered is that of Doņa Clara de Bejar of Sousa."
+
+"Et cetera," the buccaneer said, with a laugh, "these devils of
+gavachos have names for every day in the year. Come, don't be angry,
+my young cock," he added, remarking the flush which the expression he
+had employed spread over the Count's face; "we are, perhaps, nearer an
+understanding than you imagine--what would you gain by a fight with me?
+Nothing; and you might, on the contrary, lose a great deal."
+
+"I do not understand your words," the young man answered drily, "but I
+hope you are about to explain them."
+
+"It will not take long, as you shall see," the other said tauntingly,
+and, turning to the forest, he raised his hands to his mouth in the
+shape of a speaking trumpet.
+
+"Eh! L'Olonnais!" he shouted.
+
+"Hola!" a man immediately answered, whom the denseness of the forest in
+which he was hidden rendered invisible.
+
+"Come here, my son," the buccaneer continued, "I believe we have found
+your little matter."
+
+"Ah, ah!" L'Olonnais, still invisible, replied, "I must have a look at
+it."
+
+The young Count did not know what to think of this new incident which
+seemed about to change the state of affairs; he feared a coarse jest
+on the part of these half-savage men. He hesitated between giving way
+to the passion that was boiling within him, or patiently awaiting the
+result of the buccaneer's summons; but a secret foreboding urged him to
+restrain himself and act prudently with these men, who did not appear
+animated by an evil design against him, and whose manners, though quick
+and rough, were still friendly.
+
+At this moment L'Olonnais appeared; he wore the same dress as the
+buccaneer: he advanced hurriedly toward the latter, and without
+troubling himself about the two Spaniards, asked him what he wanted,
+while throwing on the ground a wild bull's hide, which he was carrying
+on his shoulders.
+
+"Did you not tell me something about a letter which Bowline sent you
+this morning by the hands of Omopoua?"
+
+"It is true, Lepoletais. I spoke to you about it," he said, "and it was
+settled between us that as you know the country, you were to lead me to
+the person to whom I have to deliver this accursed slip of paper."
+
+"Well, then, my son, if you like, your commission is performed,"
+Lepoletais continued, as he pointed to Don Sancho, "he is the brother,
+or at least calls himself so, of the person in question."
+
+"Stuff," L'Olonnais replied, fixing alight glance on the young man,
+"that gay springald?"
+
+"Yes, he says so; for as you know, the Spaniards are such liars, that
+it is not possible even to trust to their word."
+
+Don Sancho blushed with indignation.
+
+"Who gave you the right to doubt mine?" he exclaimed.
+
+"Nothing has done so up to the present, hence I am not addressing
+myself to you, but speaking generally."
+
+"So," L'Olonnais asked him, "you are the brother of Doņa Clara de
+Bejar, the mistress of the hatto del Rincón?"
+
+"Once again, yes, I am her brother."
+
+"Good! And how will you prove it to me?"
+
+The young man shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"What do I care whether you believe me or not?" he said.
+
+"That is possible, but it is of great consequence to me to be certain
+of the fact; I am entrusted with a letter for that lady, and wish to
+perform my commission properly."
+
+"In that case hand me the letter, and I will deliver it myself."
+
+"You found that out all by yourself," the engagé said mockingly, "a
+likely notion that I should give you the note on your demand," and he
+burst into a hearty laugh, in which Lepoletais joined.
+
+"These Spaniards doubt nothing," the buccaneer said.
+
+"In that case go to the deuce, you and your letter," the young man
+exclaimed passionately, "it does not make any difference to me if you
+keep it."
+
+"Come, come, don't be savage, hang it all," L'Olonnais continued in a
+conciliatory tone; "there is possibly a means of arranging matters to
+the general satisfaction; I am not so black as I look, and I have good
+intentions, but I do not wish to be duped, that is all."
+
+The young man, in spite of the visible repugnance with which the
+adventurers inspired him did not dare to break suddenly with them; the
+letter might be very important, and his sister, doubtless would not
+pardon him if he acted petulantly in this matter.
+
+"Come," he said, "speak, but make haste; it is late--I am far from the
+hatto, where I wish to return before sunset, so as not to alarm my
+sister unnecessarily."
+
+"That is the conduct of a good brother," the engagé answered with an
+ironical smile; "this is what I propose to you: tell the little lady in
+question that Montbart's engagé has orders to deliver a letter to her,
+and that if she wishes to have it, she need only come and fetch it."
+
+"What! Fetch it, where?"
+
+"Here; zounds! Lepoletais and I will set up a boucan at this spot; we
+will wait for the lady all tomorrow here: it seems to me that what I
+propose is simple and easy."
+
+"And do you believe," he answered ironically, "that my sister will
+consent to accept such an appointment made by a wretched adventurer?
+why, you must be mad!"
+
+"I do not believe anything, I make you a proposal, which you are free
+to accept or refuse, that is all: as for the letter, she shall only
+have it by coming to fetch it herself."
+
+"Why not accompany me to the hatto, that would be more simple, I fancy?"
+
+"It is possible, and that was my intention at first, but I have changed
+my mind; so settle what you will do."
+
+"My sister respects herself too much to take such a step, I am certain
+beforehand that she will indignantly refuse."
+
+"Well, you may be mistaken, my friend," the engagé said, with a knowing
+smile, "who ever knows what women think!"
+
+"Well, to cut short an interview which has already lasted too long, I
+will inform her of what you have said to me; still, I do not conceal
+from you that I shall make every effort to prevent her coming."
+
+"You can do as you please, it does not concern me; but be assured that
+if it be her wish to come, as I believe, your arguments will be of no
+use."
+
+"We shall see."
+
+"Mind not to forget to tell her that the letter is from Montbarts."
+
+During this conversation, which possessed no interest for him,
+Lepoletais, with the characteristic coolness and carelessness of
+buccaneers, was engaged in cutting down branches, and planting stakes
+to make the _ajoupa_ under which they would camp for the night.
+
+"You see," the engagé added, "that my comrade has already set to work;
+so good-bye till tomorrow, as I have no time for further talk, I must
+help to prepare the boucan."
+
+"Do as you please, but I am persuaded that you are wrong in reckoning
+on the success of the commission I have undertaken."
+
+"Well, you will see; at any rate mention it to the Seņora. Ah! By the
+way, one word more, mind, no treachery."
+
+The young man did not condescend a reply: he shrugged his shoulders
+disdainfully, leaped on his horse, and galloped off in the direction of
+the hatto, closely followed by the Major-domo.
+
+On getting some distance away, he looked back: the ajoupa was already
+finished, and, as L'Olonnais had said, the two buccaneers were busily
+engaged in establishing their boucan, without paying any more attention
+to the Spaniards, who were doubtless prowling about the neighbourhood,
+than if they had been five hundred leagues from any habitation.
+
+Then he continued to advance thoughtfully in the direction of the hatto.
+
+"Well, Excellency," the Major-domo said presently, "you have seen the
+ladrones, what do you think of them now?"
+
+"They are rough men," he said, shaking his head sadly, "possessing
+brutal and indomitable natures, but relatively frank and honest, at
+least from their point of view."
+
+"Yes, yes, you are right, Excellency; and thus they gain more ground
+every day, and if they were left alone, I am afraid that the whole
+island would soon belong to them."
+
+"Oh, we have not reached that point yet," he said with a smile.
+
+"Pardon me, Excellency, for asking you the question, but do you intend
+to inform the Seņora of this meeting?"
+
+"I should like not to do so; unfortunately, after what you had told me
+of the things that have taken place between my sister and these men,
+my silence might have very serious consequences for her. Hence it is
+better, I believe, to tell her frankly all about it, and she will be a
+better judge than I of the line of conduct she should pursue."
+
+"I believe you are right, Excellency. The Seņora has perhaps a great
+interest in knowing the contents of that letter."
+
+"Well, let us trust in Heaven!"
+
+It was an hour past nightfall when they reached the hatto.
+
+They noticed with surprise an unusual movement round the house. Several
+fires lighted on the plain illumined the darkness. On approaching,
+the Count perceived that these fires were lit by soldiers, who had
+established their bivouac there.
+
+A confidential servant was watching for the Count's arrival. So soon as
+he saw him, he handed him several letters that had arrived for him, and
+begged him to go at once to the Seņora, who was impatiently expecting
+him.
+
+"What is there new here?" he asked.
+
+"Two fifties arrived at sunset, Excellency," the servant answered.
+
+"Ah!" he remarked, with a slight frown. "Very good. Inform my sister
+that I shall be with her in an instant."
+
+The domestic bowed and retired. The young gentleman dismounted, and
+went to the apartments of Doņa Clara, considerably puzzled by the
+unforeseen arrival of these troops at a spot which apparently enjoyed
+great tranquillity, and where their presence was unnecessary.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+COMPLICATIONS.
+
+
+We must now return to one of our characters, who up to the present has
+played but a secondary part in this story; but, as frequently happens,
+is now called on by the exigencies of our narrative to take his place
+in the foreground.
+
+We refer to Count Don Stenio de Bejar y Sousa, grandee of Spain of the
+first class, _caballero cubierto_, governor for His Majesty Philip II.
+of Spain and the Indies, of the island of Hispaniola, and husband of
+Doņa Clara de Peņaflor.
+
+Count Don Stenio de Bejar was a true Spaniard of the age of Charles V.,
+dry, stiff, full of pride and self-sufficiency, always with his hand
+on his hip, and his head thrown back when he deigned to speak, which,
+happened to him as rarely as possible, not through any want of sense,
+as he was far from being a fool; but through indolence and contempt of
+other men, whom he never looked at without half closing his eyes, and
+raising the corners of his lips disdainfully.
+
+Tall, well built, possessed of noble manners, and a very handsome face,
+the Count, apart from his determined silence, was one of the most
+accomplished cavaliers of the Spanish court, which, however, at that
+period, possessed a great number of them.
+
+His marriage with Doņa Clara had been at the outset an affair of
+convenience and ambition, but gradually, through admiring the charming
+face of the woman he had married, seeing her gentle eyes fixed on
+him, and hearing her melodious voice resound in his ear, he had grown
+to love her--love her madly. Like all men accustomed to shut up and
+concentrate in their hearts the feelings that possessed them, the
+passion he experienced for Doņa Clara had acquired proportions the more
+formidable, because the unhappy man had the desperate conviction that
+it would never be shared by the woman who was the object of it. All Don
+Stenio's advances had been so peremptorily rejected by his wife, that
+he at last made up his mind to abstain from them.
+
+But, like all disappointed lovers, this gentleman, who was at the same
+time the husband--a very aggravating fact in the species, was naturally
+too infatuated with his own merit, to attribute his defeat to himself,
+and hence had looked around to discover the fortunate rival who had
+robbed him of his wife's heart.
+
+Naturally the Count had not succeeded in finding this fancied rival,
+who only existed in his own imagination, and this had grown into a
+jealousy, the more ferocious because, as it did not know whom to settle
+on, it attacked everybody.
+
+The Count was jealous, then, not like a Spaniard, for the Spaniards
+generally, whatever may be said to the contrary, are not affected by
+that stupid malady, but like an Italian; and this jealousy made him
+suffer the more, because, like his love, he was unable to show it;
+through fear of ridicule, he was compelled to lock it up carefully in
+his heart.
+
+When, owing to his protection--as had been arranged on his marriage
+with Doņa Clara, of whose previous union with the Count de Barmont
+he was ignorant--his father-in-law, the Duc de Peņaflor, was
+appointed viceroy of New Spain, and himself obtained the government
+of Hispaniola, the Count experienced a feeling of indescribable joy,
+and an immense comfort inundated his mind. He was persuaded that in
+America, his wife, separated from her friends and relatives, forced,
+to live alone, and consequently to undergo his influence, would be
+driven through weariness and want of something better to do, to share
+his love, or at least accept it: and then again, on the islands there
+was no rivalry to fear among a half savage population entirely absorbed
+by a passion far more powerful than love--a passion for money.
+
+Alas! This time too, he was deceived. Doņa Clara, it is true, gave him
+no more pretext for jealousy than she had done in Spain, but he did not
+any the more succeed in winning her affections. From the first day of
+her arrival at Saint Domingo, she manifested the desire to live alone
+and in retirement, engaged in religious practices; and the Count was
+constrained, in spite of his fury, to bow before a resolution which he
+recognised as irrevocable.
+
+He resigned himself; his jealousy however was not extinct, it was
+smouldering beneath the ashes, and a spark would suffice to make it
+burst into a more terrible flame than before.
+
+Still, in spite of this slight annoyance, the life the Count led at
+Saint Domingo was most agreeable; in the first place he ruled there in
+his quality of governor, saw everybody bend beneath his will, always
+excepting his wife, the only one perhaps he would have cared to reduce.
+He had his flatterers, and played the master and suzerain over all
+who surrounded him; moreover, a thing not to be at all despised, his
+position as governor secured certain imposts that rapidly augmented his
+fortune, which various youthful follies had considerably reduced, and
+he now worked hard, not only to repair the breaches, but to render them
+as if they had never been.
+
+By degrees, however, the Count succeeded in lulling, if not subduing,
+his love; he employed one passion to uproot the other; the care
+of augmenting his fortune made him endure patiently the calculated
+indifference of the Countess. He had almost come himself to believe
+that he only felt for her a frank and sincere friendship; the more
+so because Doņa Clara for her part, was charming in everything that
+did not touch on her husband's passion for her; she took an interest,
+or at least pretended to do so, in the commercial speculations which
+the Count did not hesitate to engage in under suppositious names, and
+at times she would give him, with that clear judgment so eminently
+possessed by women whose heart is free, excellent advice on very
+difficult points, by which the Count profited, and naturally took all
+the glory.
+
+Things were in this state when the episode with the filibusters
+occurred, which the Major-domo described to Don Sancho de Peņaflor.
+
+This mad struggle of five men against an entire town, a struggle from
+which they emerged victorious, had caused the Count a rage all the
+greater, because the filibusters, on leaving the town, had taken the
+Countess off with them as a hostage. He had then understood how greatly
+he erred, in supposing that his love and jealousy were extinguished.
+During the two hours that the Countess remained absent, the Count
+suffered a horrible torture, the more horrible because the rage he felt
+was impotent, and vengeance impossible, at least for the present.
+
+Hence, from this moment, the Count vowed an implacable hatred against
+the adventurers, and swore to carry on a merciless war against them.
+
+The return of the Countess safe and sound, and treated with the
+greatest respect by the adventurers, during the time she remained in
+their power, calmed the Count's wrath from a marital point of view,
+but the insult he had received in his quality as governor, was too
+grave for him to renounce his vengeance.
+
+From this moment the most formal orders were sent to the leaders of
+corps to redouble their surveillance, and chase the adventurers,
+wherever they met them; fresh Fifties, formed of resolute men, were
+organized, and the few adventurers they contrived to catch, were
+mercilessly hung. Tranquillity was re-established in the colonies, the
+confidence of the colonists, momentarily disturbed, reappeared, and
+everything apparently returned to its accustomed state.
+
+The Countess had expressed a desire to restore her health by a stay
+of several weeks at the hatto del Rincón, and the Count, to whom her
+physician had expressed this wish, found it only very natural; he had
+seen his wife go away with an easy mind, for he was convinced that at
+the spot whither she was going, she would have no danger to fear, and
+felt persuaded in his heart that this condescension on his part, would
+be appreciated by the Countess, and that she would feel thankful to him
+for it.
+
+She had left therefore, only accompanied by a few servants and
+confidential slaves, delighted to escape for some time from the
+restraint she was obliged to impose on herself at Saint Domingo,
+and fostering the bold scheme which we have seen her carry out so
+successfully.
+
+It was about an hour after the departure of Don Sancho de Peņaflor,
+to go and join his sister at the hatto; the Count was finishing his
+breakfast, and preparing to retire to the inner boudoir to enjoy his
+siesta, when an usher came into the dining room, and after apologizing
+for disturbing His Excellency at this moment, informed him that a man
+who refused to give his name, but declared that he was well known to
+the governor, insisted on being introduced into his presence, as he had
+most important communications to make to him.
+
+The moment was badly chosen to ask for an audience, as the Count felt
+inclined to sleep; he answered the usher that, however important the
+stranger's communications might be, he did not believe them of such
+importance that he should sacrifice his siesta for them; he therefore
+Sent a message to the effect that the governor would not be at liberty
+till four in the afternoon, and if the stranger liked to return then he
+would be received.
+
+The Count dismissed the usher, and rose, muttering to himself as he
+walked towards the boudoir,--
+
+"_Dios me salve_, if I were to believe all these scamps, I should not
+have a moment's rest."
+
+Whereupon he stretched himself in a large hammock, hung right across
+the room, closed his eyes and fell asleep.
+
+The Count's siesta lasted three hours, and this delay was the cause of
+serious complications.
+
+On waking, Don Stenio quite forgot all about the stranger; it so often
+happened that he was disturbed for nothing by people who declared they
+had urgent matters to discuss with him, that he did not attach the
+slightest importance to their requests for an audience, and the usher's
+words had completely slipped his memory.
+
+At the time when he entered the room where he usually granted his
+audiences, and which at this moment was quite empty, the usher
+presented himself again.
+
+"What do you want?" he asked him.
+
+"Excellency," the usher replied with a respectful bow, "the man has
+returned."
+
+"What man?"
+
+"The man who came this morning."
+
+"Oh yes, well, what does he want?" the Count continued, who did not
+know what all this was about.
+
+"He desires, my lord, that you will do him the honour of receiving him,
+as he states that he has matters of the utmost gravity to tell you."
+
+"Ah, very good, I remember now; it is the same man you announced this
+morning."
+
+"Yes, Excellency, the same."
+
+"And what is his name?"
+
+"He will only tell it to your Excellency."
+
+"Hum! I do not like such precautions, for they never forbode anything
+good; listen, José! When he arrives, tell him I never receive people
+who insist on keeping their incognito."
+
+"But he is here, my lord."
+
+"Ah! well then, it will be all the more easy, tell him so at once."
+
+And he turned his back. The usher bowed and left the room, but returned
+almost immediately.
+
+"Well! Have you sent him away?" the Count asked.
+
+"No, my lord, he gave me this card requesting me to hand it your
+Excellency. He declares that, in default of his name, it will be
+sufficient to secure his admission to your presence."
+
+"Oh! Oh!" said the Count, "That is curious, let me see this famous
+talisman."
+
+He took the card from the usher's hand and looked at it absently; but
+all at once he started, frowned and said to the usher,
+
+"Show the man into the yellow room, let him wait for me there, I will
+be with him in a moment. The deuce," he muttered to himself when he was
+alone, "it is a long time since this scoundrel let me hear anything of
+him, I fancied him hung or drowned; he is a clever scamp, can he really
+have any important information to give me? We shall see."
+
+Then, leaving the room in which he was, he hastened to the yellow
+saloon where the man with the card already was.
+
+On seeing the governor, the latter hastily rose, and made him a
+respectful bow.
+
+The Count turned to the valet who had followed him to open the doors.
+
+"I am not at home to anybody," he said; "you can go."
+
+The valet left the room, and shut the door after him.
+
+"Now for us two," the Count said, as he sank into his chair, and
+pointed to another.
+
+"I am awaiting your lordship's orders," the stranger said respectfully.
+
+Don Stenio remained for a moment silent, and scratching his forehead.
+
+"You have been away for a very long time," he said at last, "well, what
+has become of you during the last two months?"
+
+"I have been executing your Excellency's orders," the man answered.
+
+"My orders? I do not remember having given you any."
+
+"Pardon me, my lord, if I venture to remind you of certain facts, which
+appear to have escaped your memory."
+
+"Do so, my good fellow, I shall be delighted at it; still, I would
+remark that my time is valuable, and that others besides yourself are
+awaiting an audience."
+
+"I will be brief, Excellency."
+
+"That is what I wish. Go on,"
+
+"A few days after the affair of the ladrones, does not your Excellency
+remember saying to me in a moment of anger or impatience, that you
+would give ten thousand piastres to obtain positive information about
+the adventurers, their strength, plans, &c.?"
+
+"Yes, I remember saying that; what then?"
+
+"Well, Excellency, I was present when you made that promise. Your
+Excellency had deigned to employ me several times before; as you looked
+at me while speaking, I supposed that you were addressing me, and I
+have acted accordingly."
+
+"That is to say?"
+
+"In my devotion to your Excellency, in spite of the numberless dangers
+I should have to incur, I resolved to go and seek the information you
+appeared to desire so ardently, and--"
+
+"And you went to seek it," the Count exclaimed with an eager start,
+though hitherto he had paid but very slight attention to the stranger's
+remarks.
+
+"Well, yes, Excellency."
+
+"Ah, ah," he said, stroking his chin; "and have you learnt anything?"
+
+"An infinity of things, my lord."
+
+"Well, let me hear some of them. But mind," he added, checking himself,
+"no hearsays or suppositions, for I have my ears stuffed with them."
+
+"The information I shall have the honour of giving your Excellency, is
+derived from a good source, since I went to seek it in the very den of
+the ladrones."
+
+The Count gazed with admiration at this man who had not feared to
+expose himself to so great a danger.
+
+"If such is the case, pray continue, seņor."
+
+"My lord," the spy resumed, for we may henceforth give him that name;
+"I come from St. Christopher."
+
+"Ah! Is not that the Island where the bandits take shelter?"
+
+"Yes, my lord, and more than that, I returned in one of their vessels."
+
+"Oh, oh," said the governor, "pray tell me all about it, my dear Don
+Antonio: that is your name, I believe?"
+
+"Yes, my lord; Don Antonio de la Ronda."
+
+"You see," the Count added with a smile; "that I have a good memory
+sometimes," and he laid a stress on these words, which made the spy's
+heart bound with joy.
+
+The latter told him in what way he had entered the island, how he had
+been discovered and made prisoner by Montbarts, who put him on board
+one of his vessels; how a great expedition had been decided on by the
+adventurers against the island of Saint Domingo, in the first place,
+and then against Tortuga, which the ladrones had a plan for surprising,
+and on which they intend to establish themselves; and in what way, on
+reaching Port Margot, he had succeeded in escaping, and had hastened to
+bear the news to his Excellency the governor.
+
+The Count listened with the most serious attention to Don Antonio's
+narrative, and in proportion as it progressed, the governor's brow
+became more anxious; in fact, the spy had not deceived him. The news
+was of the utmost gravity.
+
+"Hum!" he answered; "And is it long since the ladrones arrived at Port
+Margot?"
+
+"Eight days, Excellency."
+
+"_ĄSangre de Cristo!_ so long as that, and I had not been informed of
+it?"
+
+"In spite of the utmost diligence, as I was constrained to take the
+greatest precaution lest I should fall again into the hands of the
+ladrones, who doubtless started in pursuit of me. I only arrived this
+morning, and came straight to the palace."
+
+The Count bit his lips, several hours had been lost through his fault;
+still he did not notice the indirect reproach addressed to him by the
+spy, for he comprehended all its justice.
+
+"You have fairly earned the ten thousand piastres promised, Don
+Antonio," he said.
+
+The spy gave a start of pleasure.
+
+"Ah, that is not all," he answered, with a meaning smile.
+
+"What else is there?" the Count remarked; "I believed that you had
+nothing further to tell me."
+
+"That depends, Excellency. I have made my official report to the
+Governor-General of Hispaniola, it is true--a very detailed report
+indeed--in which I have forgotten nothing that might help him to defend
+the island entrusted to his care."
+
+"Well?"
+
+"Well, my lord, I have now to give the Count de Bejar, of course, if he
+desire it, certain information which I believe will interest him."
+
+The Count fixed on the man an investigating glance, as if he wished to
+read his very soul.
+
+"The Count de Bejar?" he said with studied coldness; "What can you have
+to say that interests him privately, as a simple gentleman? I have not,
+as far as I am aware, anything to settle with the ladrones."
+
+"Perhaps so, my lord; however, I will only speak, if your Excellency
+orders me, and before doing so, will beg you to forgive anything that
+may seem offensive to your honour in what I may say to you."
+
+The Count turned pale and frowned portentously.
+
+"Take care," he said to him in a threatening voice, "take care lest
+you go beyond your object, and in trying to prove too much, fall into
+the contrary excess. The honour of my name is not to be played with,
+and I will never allow the slightest stain to be imprinted on it."
+
+"I have not the slightest intention to insult your Excellency; my zeal
+on your behalf has alone urged me to speak as I have done."
+
+"Very good--I am willing to believe it; still, as the honour of my name
+regards myself alone, I do not allow any person the right to assail it,
+not even in a good intention."
+
+"I ask your Excellency's pardon, but I have doubtless explained myself
+badly. What I have to tell you relates to a plot, formed, doubtless,
+without her knowledge, against the Countess."
+
+"A plot formed against the Countess!" Don Stenio exclaimed, violently;
+"What do you mean, seņor? Explain at once--I insist on it."
+
+"My lord, since it is your wish, I will speak. Is not her ladyship, the
+Countess, at this moment in the vicinity of the small town of San Juan?"
+
+"She is; but how do you know it, since, as you told me you have only
+been back to Saint Domingo for a few hours?"
+
+"I presumed so, because on board the vessel in which I returned to
+Hispaniola, I heard something about an interview which the chief of
+the adventurers was to have in a few days in the neighbourhood of the
+Artibonite."
+
+"Oh!" the Count exclaimed; "You lie, scoundrel!"
+
+"For what object, my lord?" the spy answered, coolly.
+
+"How do I know? through hatred, envy, perhaps."
+
+"I," he said, with a shrug of his shoulders. "Nonsense, my lord. Men
+like me--spies, if things must be called by their proper name--are only
+led away by one passion--that of money."
+
+"But what you tell me is impossible," the Count observed, with
+agitation.
+
+"What prevents you from assuring yourself that I speak the truth, my
+lord?"
+
+"I will do so, _ĄViva Dios!_" he exclaimed, stamping his foot furiously.
+
+Then he walked up to the spy, who was standing calm and motionless in
+the centre of the room, and fixed on him a glance full of rage, but
+impossible to describe.
+
+"Listen, villain!" he said in a hollow voice, half choked with passion;
+"If you have lied, you shall die!"
+
+"Agreed, my lord," the spy replied, coldly; "but if I have spoken the
+truth?"
+
+"If you have spoken the truth," he exclaimed, but suddenly broke off,
+"but no, it is impossible, I repeat!" and seeing a fugitive smile
+playing round the lips of his companion, he added, "well, be it so; if
+you have spoken the truth, you shall fix your own reward, and whatever
+it may be, on my word as a gentleman, you shall have it."
+
+"Thanks, my lord," he replied, with a bow; "I hold you to your word."
+
+The Count walked several times up and down the saloon, suffering from
+intense agitation, appearing to have completely forgotten the presence
+of the spy, muttering unconnected words, breaking out into passionate
+gestures, and in all probability revolving in his head sinister
+projects of vengeance. At length he stopped and addressed the spy again.
+
+"Withdraw," he said to him, "but do not leave the palace; or, stay,
+wait a moment."
+
+Seizing a bell on the table, he rang it violently.
+
+A valet appeared.
+
+"A corporal and four men," he said.
+
+The spy shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Why all these precautions, my lord?" he asked; "is it not contrary to
+my interest to go away?"
+
+The Count examined him for a moment attentively, and then made the
+valet a sign to withdraw.
+
+"Very good," he then said, "I trust to you, Don Antonio de la Ronda.
+Await my orders, I shall soon have need of you."
+
+"I shall not go away far, my lord."
+
+And after bowing respectfully, he took his leave, and withdrew.
+
+The Count, when left alone, gave way for some minutes to all the
+violence of a rage so long restrained, but he gradually regained his
+coolness and the power of reflection.
+
+"Oh! I will avenge myself!" he exclaimed.
+
+Then he gave, with feverish activity, the necessary orders that
+numerous bodies of troops should be sent off to different points, so as
+to completely invest the hatto del Rincón, to which spot two Fifties
+were sent, commanded by experienced and resolute officers.
+
+These measures taken, the Count, wrapped in a large cloak, mounted his
+horse an hour after sunset, and followed by Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+who had not the slightest desire to leave him, and a few confidential
+officers, he left his palace incognito, rode through the town
+unrecognized, and reached the open country.
+
+"Now, caballeros," he said in a hollow voice, "gallop your hardest,
+and do not be afraid of foundering your horses. Relays are prepared at
+regular distances along the road."
+
+He dug his spurs into the flanks of his horse, which snorted with pain,
+and the party set out with the headlong speed of a whirlwind.
+
+"Ah, Santiago! Santiago;" the Count exclaimed at times while urging on
+his steed, whose efforts were superhuman, "shall I arrive in time?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+PORT MARGOT.
+
+
+We will now return to the filibustering flotilla, which we left sailing
+freely toward the great North Key, a rendezvous admirably selected,
+owing to its proximity to Saint Domingo, and exactly facing the island
+of the Tortoise.
+
+According to their habit, whenever they undertook an expedition, the
+adventurers had only troubled themselves with laying in a stock of
+ammunition, and only took two days' provisions with them, as they
+intended to make descents on the islands which they knew they must
+pass, and pillage the Spanish colonists settled on them. This was
+exactly what happened. The filibusters left behind them a long train of
+fire and blood, murdering, without pity, the defenceless Spaniards, who
+were terrified at the sight of them, seizing on their cattle and firing
+their houses after they had plundered them.
+
+The first vessel to anchor off the Great Key was the lugger with
+Montbarts on board, and commanded by Michael le Basque; on the next day
+the two brigantines arrived, a few hours after one another.
+
+They came to anchor on the right and left of the admiral, about two
+cables' length from the coast.
+
+At this period the Great Key was inhabited by red Caribs, expelled from
+St. Domingo by the cruelty of the Spaniards, and who had taken refuge
+on this island, where they lived rather comfortably, owing to the
+fertility of the soil, and the alliance they had contracted with the
+filibusters.
+
+The three vessels had scarce cast anchor, ere they were surrounded by a
+great number of canoes, manned by Caribs, who brought them refreshments
+of every description.
+
+The same evening the admiral went ashore with the greater part of his
+crew: the other captains imitated him, and only left behind the men
+absolutely necessary to guard the ships.
+
+At a signal from the admiral, the crews arranged themselves in a
+semicircle round him; the captains standing in front of the first line.
+
+Behind them were the Caribs, alarmed in their hearts at this formidable
+landing, whose motive they could not divine, anxiously awaiting what
+was going to happen, and not at all comprehending this display of
+strength.
+
+Montbarts, holding in one hand the staff of a white flag, whose folds
+floated on the breeze above his head, and his long sword in the other,
+looked round at the men gathered before him.
+
+Most of them were scarce clad, but all were well armed. They had
+weather-beaten complexions, vigorous limbs, huge muscles, energetic
+features, and a defiant glance. The adventurers thus collected
+around this man, who stood haughtily in front of them, with his head
+thrown back, quivering lips, and a flashing eye, offered a striking
+spectacle; their savage grandeur and rough gestures were not deficient
+in a certain majesty, which was rendered still more imposing by the
+primitive landscape that formed the background of the picture, and the
+picturesque group of Indians, whose anxious faces and characteristic
+poses added to the effect of the scene.
+
+For some time the rustling of the crowd was audible, like the sound of
+the sea breaking on a beach, but gradually the noise died away, and a
+profound silence fell on all.
+
+Montbarts then advanced a step, and in a firm and sonorous voice, whose
+manly accents soon captivated all these men who listened eagerly to his
+words, he revealed to them the purpose of the expedition, which up to
+this time was unknown to them.
+
+"Brothers of the coast," he said; "messmates and friends, the moment
+has arrived to reveal to you what I await from your courage and your
+devotion to the common cause. You are not mercenaries, who, for scanty
+pay, let themselves be killed like brutes, ignorant for what or from
+whom they are fighting. No! You are picked men, who wish to know to
+what object you are advancing, and what profit you will derive from
+your efforts. Several of our most renowned comrades and myself have
+resolved to attack in the heart of their richest possessions these
+cowardly Spaniards, who believed they dishonoured us by branding us
+with the name of _ladrones_, and whom the merest sight of our smallest
+canoes puts to flight like a flock of startled seagulls. But in order
+that our vengeance may be certain, and that we succeed in seizing the
+wealth of our enemies, we must possess a point sufficiently near the
+centre of our operations, to enable us to rush upon them unawares, and
+so strong that the whole power of Castile may be broken against it in
+impotent efforts. St. Christopher is too remote. Moreover, the descent
+of Admiral Don Fernando of Toledo is a proof to us, that however brave
+we may be, we shall never succeed in fortifying ourselves strongly
+enough there to defy the rage of our enemies. It was, therefore,
+absolutely necessary to find a spot more favourable to our projects,
+a point which could easily be rendered impregnable. Our friends, and
+myself set to work. For a long time we sought with the perseverance
+of men resolved to succeed. Heaven has at length deigned to bless our
+efforts. We have found this refuge under the most fortunate conditions."
+
+Here Montbarts made a pause for several seconds.
+
+An electric quiver ran along the ranks of the adventurers; their eyes
+flashed fire, they grasped their fusils in their powerful hands, as if
+they were impatient to commence the struggle promised them.
+
+A smile of satisfaction illumined for a moment the adventurer's pale
+face. Then, waving his hand to command attention, he resumed;--
+
+"Brethren, before us is Saint Domingo;" and he stretched out his
+hand towards the sea. "Saint Domingo, the loveliest and wealthiest
+of all the isles possessed by Spain. On this island several of our
+brothers, who escaped the massacre of St. Christopher, have established
+themselves, and are contending energetically against the Spaniards, to
+hold the ground wrested from them. Unfortunately too few in number, in
+spite of their bravery, to resist for any length of time the enemy's
+troops, they would soon be forced to quit the island, if we did not
+go to their assistance. They have summoned us. We have responded to
+this appeal of our brothers, whom honour ordered us to succour in
+the hour of danger. While doing a good deed, we are carrying out the
+plan so long resolved by ourselves, and at last we have found the
+impregnable spot we have so long desired. You all know the island
+of Tortuga, brethren? Separated only by a narrow channel from Saint
+Domingo, it rises like an advanced sentry in the middle of the sea. It
+is the eagle's nest, whence we will laughingly brave the fury of the
+Spaniards. To Tortuga, brethren!"
+
+"To the island of the Tortoise!" the adventurers shouted, brandishing
+their weapons enthusiastically.
+
+"Good!" Montbarts continued. "I knew that you were men who would
+understand me, and that I could reckon upon you. Before seizing on
+Tortuga, however, which is only defended by an insignificant garrison
+of twenty soldiers, who will fly at the first blow, we must, by
+protecting our brethren at Saint Domingo, and securing them the
+territory they occupy, obtain for ourselves useful ports, advantageous
+outlets, and, before all, the means of easily injuring the Spaniards,
+and, if it be possible, expelling them entirely from the island, of
+which they have already lost a portion. Tomorrow, we will proceed to
+Port Margot, come to an understanding there with our brethren, and
+arrange our plans, so as to derive both honour and profit from our
+expedition. And now, brethren, let each crew go aboard. Tomorrow, at
+sunrise, we will set sail for Port Margot, and in a few days I promise
+you glorious fights, and a rich booty to divide among you all. Long
+live France, and death to Spain!"
+
+"Long live France! Death to Spain! Long live Montbarts!" the
+adventurers exclaimed.
+
+"Let us embark, brethren," Montbarts added. "Do not forget that the
+poor Indians of this island are our friends, and must be treated as
+such by you."
+
+The adventurers then followed their officers, and embarked in the most
+perfect order.
+
+At sunrise, the squadron raised anchor. We need not say that all the
+refreshments purchased of the Indians were scrupulously paid for, and
+that no one had reason to complain of their stay at the Great Key.
+A few hours later the flotilla entered the channel separating Saint
+Domingo from Tortuga, and anchored off Port Margot.
+
+The Spanish island lay before them with its large mounds, tall cliffs,
+and its mountains, whose peaks seemed hidden in the clouds, while on
+the starboard, Tortuga, with its dense, verdant forests, seemed a
+basket of flowers rising from the bottom of the sea.
+
+They had scarce landed ere a canoe, manned by four men, hailed the
+lugger. These four men were Lepoletais, whom we have already caught a
+glimpse of; one of his apprentices, L'Olonnais, and Omopoua, the Carib
+chief.
+
+The Indian had nearly got rid of the European dress, and resumed that
+of his nation.
+
+Montbarts went to meet his visitors, saluted them, and led them down to
+the cabin.
+
+"You are welcome," he said to them. "In a few minutes the other
+leaders of the expedition will be here, and then we will talk. In the
+meanwhile, take some refreshment."
+
+And he gave an engagé orders to bring in spirits.
+
+Lepoletais and Omopoua sat down without pressing, but L'Olonnais
+remained modestly standing. In his quality of apprentice he dared not
+place himself on a footing of equality with the adventurers. At this
+moment Michael the Basque entered the cabin.
+
+"Messmate," he said to Montbarts, "Captain Drake and David have just
+come aboard. They are waiting on deck."
+
+"Tell them to come below. I want to talk with them.".
+
+Michael went out. A few minutes after, he returned, accompanied by the
+two captains.
+
+After the first compliments, the two officers drank a bumper, then
+took their seats, and awaited the communication which their chief was
+evidently about to make to them.
+
+Montbarts knew the value of time, hence he did not put their patience
+to a long trial.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "I present to you Lepoletais, whom you doubtless
+know already by reputation."
+
+The adventurers bowed smilingly, and spontaneously offered their hand
+to the buccaneer.
+
+The latter cordially returned the pressure, delighted in his heart at
+so frank a reception.
+
+"Lepoletais," Montbarts continued, "is sent to me as a delegate by our
+brethren, the buccaneers of Port Margot and Port de Paix; I prefer to
+let him himself explain what he expects from us--in this manner we
+shall more easily arrive at an understanding. Speak, then, I pray,
+brother, we are listening."
+
+Lepoletais first poured out a glass of rum, which he swallowed at a
+draught, no doubt for the purpose of clearing his ideas; then, after
+two or three sonorous "hums!" he resolved to speak.
+
+"Brethren," he said, "whatever be the name given us--filibusters,
+buccaneers, or habitants--our origin is the same, is it not? And we are
+all adventurers. Hence, we are bound to assist and protect one another,
+like the free companions we are; but, in order that this protection may
+be efficient--that nothing may weaken in the future the alliance we
+contract today--we must, like yourselves, find some real profit in the
+alliance. Is not this the case?"
+
+"Certainly," Michael said, to encourage him.
+
+"This, then, is what is happening," Lepoletais continued; "we
+buccaneers and habitants are here something like the bird on the
+tree, continually pursued by the gavachos, who track us like wild
+beasts, wherever they surprise us, sustaining an unequal contest, in
+which we must eventually succumb, not knowing today if we shall be
+alive tomorrow, and gradually losing all the ground which we gained
+at the outset. This deplorable state of things could not go on much
+longer without entailing a catastrophe, which, with your aid, we hope
+not only to avert, but to prevent definitively; by seizing Tortuga,
+which is badly guarded, and will be badly defended, you procure us
+a sure shelter in case of danger, an ever open refuge in the event
+of a crisis. But this is not all; we must secure frontiers, so that
+tranquillity may prevail in our country, that merchant vessels may
+not fear to enter our ports, and that we may find an outlet for our
+hides, our boucaned meat, and our tallow. These frontiers can be easily
+secured; the only thing wanting is to seize on two points, one in the
+interior, which the Spaniards call the Great Savannah of San Juan, and
+which we have christened the Grand Fond. The town of San Juan is but
+poorly fortified, and merely inhabited by mulattos, or men of mixed
+blood, whom we could easily conquer."
+
+"Is not the Grand Fond, as you call it, traversed by the Artibonite?"
+Montbarts asked, while exchanging a meaning glance with L'Olonnais, who
+was standing by his side.
+
+"Yes," Lepoletais replied; "and in the centre is a hatto called the
+Rincón, belonging, I believe, to the Spanish Governor."
+
+"It would be a master stroke to seize that man," Michael the Basque
+observed.
+
+"Yes, but there is little probability of succeeding in capturing him,
+for he is at Saint Domingo," Lepoletais replied.
+
+"It is possible; but go on."
+
+"The other point is a port called Leogane, or, as the Spaniards term
+it, _la Iguana_, or the Lizard, from the shape of the tongue of land on
+which it is built; the possession of this port would render us masters
+of the whole western part of the island, and allow us to establish
+ourselves there securely."
+
+"Is Leogane defended?" David inquired.
+
+"No," Lepoletais answered, "the Spaniards let it fall into ruins, as
+they do, indeed, with nearly all the points they occupy; through the
+want of labourers, since the almost utter extinction of the Indian
+race of the island, they gradually abandon the old establishments, and
+retire to the East."
+
+"Very good," said Montbarts; "is that all you desire?"
+
+"Yes, all," Lepoletais answered.
+
+"Now, what do you propose, brother?"
+
+"This: we buccaneers will hunt for you wild oxen and boars, and
+provision your ships at a price agreed on between us, but which must
+never be higher than one-half the price we ask of foreign vessels that
+come to trade with us; in addition, we will defend you if attacked, and
+in great expeditions you will have the right to claim one man in five
+to accompany you, when you require it. The habitants will cultivate
+the land, and supply you with vegetables, tobacco, and wood to repair
+your vessels, on the same conditions as the provisions. This is what
+I am ordered to propose to you, brothers, in the name of the French
+habitants and buccaneers of Saint Domingo; if these conditions please
+you, and I consider them just and equitable, accept them, and you will
+have no cause to repent having negotiated with us."
+
+These propositions the filibusters were already acquainted with,
+and had discussed their advantages; hence they did not take long
+to deliberate, for they had made up their mind beforehand, as their
+presence at Port Margot proved.
+
+"We accept your propositions, brother," Montbarts answered--"here is my
+hand, in the name of the filibusters I represent."
+
+"And here is mine," Lepoletais said, "in the name of the habitants and
+buccaneers."
+
+There was no other treaty but this honest shake of the hand between
+the adventurers; thus was concluded an alliance, which remained up to
+the dying day of buccaneering, as fresh and lively as when first made
+between the adventurers.
+
+"Now," Montbarts continued, "let us proceed orderly. How many brothers
+have you capable of fighting?"
+
+"Seventy," Lepoletais answered.
+
+"Very good; we will add to these one hundred and thirty more from the
+fleet, which will give us an effective strength of two hundred good
+fusils. And you, Chief, what can you do for us?"
+
+Up to this moment Omopoua had remained silent, listening to what was
+said with Indian gravity and decorum, and patiently waiting till his
+turn to speak arrived.
+
+"Omopoua will add two hundred Carib warriors, with long fusils, to the
+palefaces," he replied; "his sons are warned; they await the order of
+the Chief--L'Olonnais has seen them."
+
+"Good! These four hundred men will be commanded by myself; as this
+expedition is the most difficult and dangerous, I will undertake it.
+Michel le Basque will accompany me. I have aboard a guide, who will
+conduct us to Grand Fond. You, Drake, and you, David, will attack
+Leogane with your ships, while Bowline, with only fifteen men, will
+seize on Tortuga. Let us combine our movements, brothers, so that our
+three attacks may be simultaneous, and the Spaniards, surprised on
+three points at once, may not be able to assist one another. Tomorrow
+you will sail, gentlemen, taking with you one hundred and eighty-five
+men, more than sufficient, I believe, to capture Leogane. As for you,
+Bowline, you will keep the lugger with the fifteen men left you, and
+remain here, while watching Tortuga closely. This is the fifth of the
+month, brothers; on the fifteenth we will attack, as ten days will be
+sufficient for all of us to reach our posts, and take all the necessary
+measures. Now, gentlemen, return aboard your vessels, and send ashore,
+under orders of their officers, the contingents I intend to take with
+me."
+
+The two Captains bowed to the Admiral, left the cabin, and returned to
+their ships.
+
+"As for you," Montbarts added, turning to Lepoletais, "this is what
+you will do, brother. You will go with Omopoua to the Grand Fond, as
+if hunting, but you will carefully watch the town of San Juan, and the
+hatto del Rincón; we must, if possible, make sure of the inhabitants
+of that hatto; they are rich and influential, and their capture may be
+of considerable importance to us. You will arrange with Omopoua on the
+subject of the allies he promises to bring us; perhaps it will be as
+well for the Chief to try and lead the Spaniards on to his track, and
+force them to quit their positions: by managing cleverly we might then
+be able to defeat them in detail. Have you understood me, brother?"
+
+"Zounds!" Lepoletais answered, "I should be an ass if I did not. All
+right! I will manoeuvre as you wish."
+
+Montbarts then turned to the engagé, and made him a sign.
+
+L'Olonnais drew nearer.
+
+"Go ashore with the Carib and Lepoletais," the Admiral whispered in his
+ear--"look at everything, hear everything, watch everything; in an hour
+you will receive through Bowline a letter, which you must deliver into
+the hands of Doņa Clara de Bejar, who resides in the hatto on the Grand
+Fond."
+
+"That is easy," L'Olonnais answered, "if it must be, I will hand it to
+her in the midst of all her servants, in the hatto itself."
+
+"Do nothing of the sort; arrange it so that she must come and fetch the
+letter."
+
+"Hang it! That is more difficult! Still, I will try to succeed."
+
+"You must succeed!"
+
+"Ah! In that case, on the word of a man, you may reckon on it--though,
+hang me if I know how I shall manage it!"
+
+Lepoletais had risen.
+
+"Farewell, brother," he said; "when you land tomorrow I shall be on my
+way to the Grand Fond; I shall, therefore, not see you again till we
+meet there; but do not be alarmed--you shall find everything in order
+when you arrive. Ah! By the way, shall I take my body of buccaneers
+with me?"
+
+"Certainly; they will be of the greatest use to you in watching the
+enemy; but hide them carefully."
+
+"All right," he said.
+
+At this moment Michael the Basque rushed suddenly into the cabin, with
+his features distorted by passion.
+
+"What is the matter, messmate? Come, recover yourself," Montbarts said
+coolly to him.
+
+"A great misfortune has happened to us," Michael exclaimed, as he
+passionately pulled out a handful of hair.
+
+"What is it? Come, speak like a man, messmate."
+
+"That villain, Antonio de la Ronda--"
+
+"Well?" Montbarts interrupted, with a nervous tremor.
+
+"He has escaped!"
+
+"Malediction!"
+
+"Ten men have set out in pursuit."
+
+"Stuff! It is all up now; they will not catch him. What is to be done?"
+
+"What has happened?" Lepoletais asked.
+
+"Our guide has escaped."
+
+"Is it only that? I promise to find you another."
+
+"Yes, but this one is probably the cleverest spy the Spaniards possess;
+he knows enough of our secrets to make our expedition fail."
+
+"Heaven preserve us from it! Stuff!" the buccaneer added,
+carelessly--"Think no more about it, brother; what is done is done--let
+us go ahead all the same."
+
+And he left the cabin, apparently quite unaffected by the news.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+FRAY ARSENIO.
+
+
+Let us now tell the reader who these buccaneers were of whom we have
+several times spoken, and what was the origin of the name given them,
+and which they gave themselves.
+
+The red Caribs of the Antilles were accustomed, when they made
+prisoners in the obstinate contests they waged with each other, or
+which they carried on against the whites, to cut their prisoners into
+small pieces, and lay them upon a species of small hurdles, under which
+they lit a fire.
+
+These hurdles were called _barbacoas_, the spot where they were set up
+_boucans_, and the operation _boucaning_, to signify at the same time
+roasting and smoking.
+
+It was from this that the French boucaniers (anglicised into
+buccaneers) derived their name, with this difference, that they did to
+animals what the others did to men.
+
+The first buccaneers were Spanish settlers on the Caribbean islands,
+who lived on intimate terms with the Indians; hence when they turned
+their attention to the chase, they accustomed themselves without
+reflection to employ these Indian terms, which were certainly
+characteristic, and for which it would have been difficult to
+substitute any others.
+
+The buccaneers carried on no other trade but hunting; they were divided
+into two classes, the first only hunting oxen to get their hides, the
+second killing boars, whose flesh they salted and sold to the planters.
+
+These two varieties of buccaneers were accoutred nearly in the same
+way, and had the same mode of life.
+
+The real buccaneers were those who pursued oxen, and they never called
+the others by any name but hunters.
+
+Their equipage consisted of a pack of twenty-four dogs, among which
+were two bloodhounds, whose duty it was to discover the animal; the
+price of these dogs, settled among themselves, was thirty livres.
+
+As we have said, their weapon was a long fusil, manufactured at Dieppe
+or Nantes; they always hunted together, two at the least, but sometimes
+more, and then everything was in common between them. As we advance in
+the history of these singular men, we shall enter into fuller details
+about their mode of life and strange habits.
+
+When Don Sancho and the Major-domo left them, Lepoletais and L'Olonnais
+had for a long time looked with a mocking glance after the two
+Spaniards, and then went on building their ajoupa and preparing their
+boucan, as if nothing had happened. So soon as the boucan was arranged,
+the fire lit, and the meat laid on the barbacoas, L'Olonnais set about
+curing the hide he had brought with him, while Lepoletais did the same
+to that of the bull which he had killed an hour previously.
+
+He stretched the hide out on the ground, with the hairy side up,
+fastened it down by sixty-four pegs, driven into the earth, and then
+rubbed it vigorously with a mixture of ashes and salt, to make it dry
+more quickly.
+
+This duly accomplished, he turned his attention to supper, the
+preparations for which were neither long nor complicated. A piece of
+meat had been placed in a small cauldron, with water and salt, and soon
+boiled; L'Olonnais drew it out by means of a long pointed stick, and
+laid it on a palm leaf in lieu of a dish; then he collected the grease
+with a wooden spoon, and threw it into a calabash. Into this grease
+he squeezed the juice of a lemon, added a little pimento, stirred
+it all up, and the sauce, the famous _pimentado_, so liked by the
+buccaneers, was ready. Placing the meat in a pleasant spot in front
+of the ajoupa, with the calabash by its side, he called Lepoletais,
+and the men sitting down facing each other, armed themselves with
+their knife and a wooden spit instead of a fork, and began eating
+with a good appetite, carefully dipping each mouthful of meat in the
+pimentado, and surrounded by their dogs, which, though not daring to
+ask for anything, fixed greedy glances on the provisions spread out
+before them, and followed with eager eyes every morsel swallowed by the
+adventurers.
+
+They had been eating this in silence for some time, when the
+bloodhounds raised their heads, inhaling the air restlessly, and then
+gave several hoarse growls; almost immediately the whole pack began
+barking furiously.
+
+"Eh, eh!" Lepoletais said, after drinking a mouthful of brandy and
+water, and handing the gourd to the engagé, "What is the meaning of
+this?"
+
+"Some traveller, no doubt," L'Olonnais answered carelessly.
+
+"At this hour," the buccaneer went on, as he raised his eyes to the
+sky, and consulted the stars, "why hang it all, it is past eight
+o'clock at night."
+
+"Zounds! I do not know what it is. But stay, I do not know whether I am
+mistaken, for I fancy I can hear a horse galloping."
+
+"It is really true, my son, you are not mistaken," the buccaneer
+continued, "it is indeed a horse; come, quiet, you devils," he shouted,
+addressing the dogs, which had redoubled their barking, and seemed
+ready to rush forward, "quiet, lie down, you ruffians."
+
+The dogs, doubtless accustomed for a long time to obey the imperious
+accents of this voice, immediately resumed their places, and ceased
+their deafening clamour, although they still continued to growl dully.
+
+In the meanwhile the galloping horses which the dogs had heard a great
+distance off, rapidly drew nearer; it soon became perfectly distinct,
+and at the end of a few minutes a horseman emerged from the forest, and
+became visible, although owing to the darkness it was not yet possible
+to see who this man might be.
+
+On turning into the savannah, he stopped his horse, seemed to look
+around him, with an air of indecision, for some minutes, then,
+loosening the rein again, he came up toward the boucan at a sharp trot.
+
+On reaching the two men, who continued their supper quietly, while
+keeping an eye on him, he bowed, and addressed them in Spanish--
+
+"Worthy friends," he said to them, "whoever you may be, I ask you,
+in the name of the Lord, to grant a traveller, who has lost his way,
+hospitality for this night."
+
+"Here is fire, and here is meat," the buccaneer replied, laconically,
+in the same language the traveller had employed; "rest yourself, and
+eat."
+
+"I thank you," he said.
+
+He dismounted: in the movement he made to leave the saddle, his cloak
+flew open, and the buccaneers perceived that the man was dressed in
+a religious garb. This discovery surprised them, though they did not
+allow it to be seen.
+
+On his side the stranger gave a start of terror, which was immediately
+suppressed, on perceiving that in his precipitation to seek a shelter
+for the night, he had come upon a boucan of French adventurers.
+
+The latter, however, had made him a place by their side, and while he
+was hobbling his horse, and removing its bridle, so that it might graze
+on the tall close grass of the savannah, they had placed for him, on a
+palm leaf, a lump of meat sufficient to still the appetite of a man who
+had been fasting for four and twenty hours.
+
+Somewhat reassured by the cordial manner of the adventurers, and, in
+his impossibility to do otherwise, bravely resolving to accept the
+awkward situation in which his awkwardness had placed him, the stranger
+sat down between his two hosts, and began to eat, while reflecting on
+the means of escaping from the difficult position in which he found
+himself.
+
+The adventurers, who had almost completed their meal before his
+arrival, left off eating long before him; they gave their dogs the food
+they had been expecting with so much impatience, then lit their pipes,
+and began smoking, paying no further attention to their guest beyond
+handing him the things he required.
+
+At length the stranger wiped his mouth, and, in order to prove to his
+hosts that he was quite as much at his ease as they, he produced a leaf
+of paper and tobacco, delicately rolled a cigarette, lit it, and smoked
+apparently as calmly as themselves.
+
+"I thank you for your generous hospitality, seņores," he said,
+presently, understanding that along silence might be interpreted to his
+disadvantage, "I had a great necessity to recruit my strength, for I
+have been fasting since the morning."
+
+"That is very imprudent, seņor," Lepoletais answered, "to embark thus
+without any biscuit, as we sailors say; the savannah is somewhat like
+the sea, you know when you start on it, but you never know when you
+will leave it again."
+
+"What you say is perfectly true, seņor; had it not been for you, I am
+afraid I should have passed a very bad night."
+
+"Pray say no more about that, seņor; we have only done for you what we
+should wish to be done for us under similar circumstances. Hospitality
+is a sacred duty, which no one has a right to avoid: besides, you are a
+palpable proof of it."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"Why, you are a Spaniard, if I am not mistaken, while we, on the
+contrary, are French. Well, we forget for the moment our hatred of your
+nation, to welcome you at our fireside, as every guest sent by Heaven
+has the right to be received."
+
+"That is true, seņor, and I thank you doubly, be assured."
+
+"Good Heavens!" the buccaneer replied, "I assure you that you act
+wrongly in dwelling so much on this subject. What we are doing at this
+moment is as much for you as in behalf of our honour, hence I beg you,
+seņor, not to say any more about it, for it is really not worth the
+trouble."
+
+"Bless me, seņor," L'Olonnais said with a laugh, "why, we are old
+acquaintances, though you little suspect it, I fancy."
+
+"Old acquaintances!" the stranger exclaimed, in surprise; "I do not
+understand you, seņor."
+
+"And yet what I am saying is very clear."
+
+"If you would deign to explain," the stranger replied, completely
+thrown on his beam ends, as Lepoletais would have said, "perhaps I
+shall understand, which, I assure you, will cause me great pleasure."
+
+"I wish for nothing better than to explain myself, seņor," L'Olonnais
+said, with a bantering air; "and in the first place, permit me to
+observe, that, though your cloak is so carefully buttoned, it is not
+sufficiently so to conceal the Franciscan garb you wear under it."
+
+"I am indeed a monk of that order," the stranger answered, rather
+disconcerted; "but that does not prove that you know me."
+
+"Granted, but I am certain that I shall bring back your recollection by
+a single word."
+
+"I fancy you are mistaken, my dear seņor, and that we never saw each
+other before."
+
+"Are you quite sure of that?"
+
+"Man, as you are aware, can never be sure of anything; still, it seems
+to me--"
+
+"And yet, it is so long since we met; it is true that you possibly did
+not pay any great attention to me."
+
+"On my honour, I know not what you mean," the monk remarked after
+attentively examining him for a minute or two.
+
+"Come," the engagé said with a laugh, "I will take pity on your
+embarrassment; and, as I promised you, dissipate all your doubts by a
+single word; we saw each other on the island of Nevis. Do you remember
+me?"
+
+At this revelation, the monk turned pale; he lost countenance, and for
+some minutes remained as if petrified; still the thought of denying the
+truth did not come to him for a second.
+
+"Where," L'Olonnais added, "you had a long conversation with Montbarts."
+
+"Still," the monk said with a hesitation that was not exempt from
+terror, "I do not understand--"
+
+"How I knew everything," L'Olonnais interrupted him laughingly, "then,
+you have not got to the end of your astonishment."
+
+"What, I am not at the end?"
+
+"Bah, Seņor Padre, do you fancy that I should have taken the trouble to
+bother you about such a trifle? I know a good deal more."
+
+"What do you say?" the monk exclaimed, recoiling instinctively from
+this man whom he was not indisposed to regard as a sorcerer, the more
+so because he was a Frenchman, and a buccaneer to boot, two peremptory
+reasons why Satan should nearly be master of his soul, if by chance he
+possessed one, which the worthy monk greatly doubted.
+
+"Zounds!" the engagé resumed, "You suppose, I think, that I do not know
+the motive of your journey, the spot where you have come from, where
+you are going, and more than that, the person you are about to see."
+
+"Oh, come, that is impossible," the monk said with a startled look.
+
+Lepoletais laughed inwardly at the ill-disguised terror of the Spaniard.
+
+"Take care, father," he whispered mysteriously in Fray Arsenio's ear,
+"that man knows everything; between ourselves, I believe him to be
+possessed by the demon."
+
+"Oh!" he exclaimed, rising hastily and crossing himself repeatedly,
+which caused the adventurers a still heartier laugh.
+
+"Come, resume your seat and listen to me," L'Olonnais continued as he
+seized him by the arm, and obliged him to sit down again, "my friend
+and I are only joking."
+
+"Excuse me, noble caballeros," the monk stammered, "I am in an
+extraordinary hurry, and must leave you at once, though most
+reluctantly."
+
+"Nonsense! Where could you go alone at this hour? Fall into a bog. Eh?"
+
+This far from pleasant prospect caused the monk to reflect; still, the
+terror he felt was the stronger.
+
+"No matter," he said, "I must be gone."
+
+"Nonsense, you will never find your road to the hatto del Rincón in
+this darkness."
+
+This time the monk was fairly conquered, this new revelation literally
+benumbed him, he fancied himself suffering from a terrible nightmare,
+and did not attempt to continue an impossible struggle.
+
+"There," the engagé resumed, "now, you are reasonable; rest yourself,
+I will not torment you any more, and in order to prove to you that I am
+not so wicked as you suppose me, I undertake to find you a guide."
+
+"A guide," Fray Arsenio stammered, "Heaven guard me from accepting one
+at your hand."
+
+"Reassure yourself, seņor Padre, it will not be a demon, though he may
+possibly have some moral and physical resemblance with the evil spirit;
+the guide I refer to is very simply a Carib."
+
+"Ah!" said the monk drawing a deep breath, as if a heavy weight had
+been removed from his chest, "If he is really a Carib."
+
+"Zounds! Who the deuce would you have it be?" Fray Arsenio crossed
+himself devoutly.
+
+"Excuse me," he said, "I did not wish to insult you."
+
+"Come, come, have patience, I will go myself and fetch the promised
+guide, for I see that you are really in a hurry to part company."
+
+L'Olonnais rose, took his fusil, whistled to a bloodhound, and went off
+at a rapid pace.
+
+"You will now be able," said Lepoletais, "to continue your journey
+without fear of going astray."
+
+"Has that worthy caballero really gone to fetch me a guide, as
+he promised?" Fray Arsenio asked, who did not dare to place full
+confidence in the engagé's word.
+
+"Hang it! I know no other reason why he should leave the boucan."
+
+"Then you are really a buccaneer, seņor?"
+
+"At your service, padre."
+
+"Ah, ah! And do you often come to these parts?"
+
+"Deuce take me if I do not believe you are questioning me, monk,"
+Lepoletais said with a frown, and looking him in the face; "how does
+it concern you whether I come here or not?"
+
+"Me? Not at all."
+
+"That is true, but it may concern others, may it not? And you would not
+be sorry to know the truth."
+
+"Oh? can you suppose such a thing?" Fray Arsenio hastily said.
+
+"I do not suppose, by Heaven, I know exactly what I am saying,
+but, believe me, seņor monk, you had better give up this habit of
+questioning, especially with buccaneers, people who through their
+character, do not like questions, or else you might some day run the
+risk of being played an ugly trick. It is only a simple piece of advice
+I venture to give you."
+
+"Thank you, seņor, I will bear it in mind, though in saying what I did,
+I had not the intention you suppose."
+
+"All the better, but still profit by my hint."
+
+Thus rebuffed, the monk shut himself up in a timid silence; and in
+order to give a turn to his thoughts which, we are bound to say, were
+anything but rosy colored at this moment, he took up the rosary hanging
+from his girdle, and began muttering prayers in a low voice.
+
+Nearly an hour passed then without a word being exchanged between the
+two men; Lepoletais cut up tobacco, while humming a tune, and the monk
+prayed, or seemed to be doing so.
+
+At length a slight noise was heard a short distance off, and a few
+minutes later the engagé appeared, followed by an Indian, who was no
+other than Omopoua, the Carib chief.
+
+"Quick, quick, seņor monk," L'Olonnais said gaily; "here is your guide,
+I answer for his fidelity; he will lead you in safety within two gun
+shots of the hatto."
+
+The monk did not let the invitation be repeated, for anything seemed
+to him preferable to remaining any longer in the company of these two
+reprobates; besides, he thought that he had nothing to fear from an
+Indian.
+
+He rose at one bound, and bridled his horse again, which had made an
+excellent supper, and had had all the time necessary to rest.
+
+"Seņores," he said, so soon as he was in the saddle, "I thank you for
+your generous hospitality, may the blessing of the Lord be upon you!"
+
+"Thanks," the engagé replied with a laugh, "but one last hint before
+parting; on arriving at the hatto, do not forget to tell Doņa Clara
+from me, that I shall expect her here tomorrow; do you hear?"
+
+The monk uttered a cry of terror; without replying, he dug his spurs
+into his horse's flanks, and set off at a gallop, in the direction
+where the Carib was already going, with that quick, elastic step, with
+which a horse has a difficulty in keeping up.
+
+The two buccaneers watched his flight with a hearty laugh, then,
+stretching out their feet to the fire, and laying their weapons within
+reach, they prepared to sleep, guarded by their dogs, vigilant sentries
+that would not let them be surprised.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+THE CONSEQUENCES OF A MEETING.
+
+
+Fray Arsenio followed his silent guide delightedly, although he was
+surrendered into the hands of an Indian, who must instinctively hate
+the Spaniards, those ferocious oppressors of his decimated and almost
+destroyed race. Still, the monk was glad at having escaped safe and
+sound from the clutches of the adventurers, whom he feared not only as
+ladrones, that is to say, men without faith and steeped in vice, but
+also as demons, or at the least sorcerers in regular connection with
+Satan, for such were the erroneous ideas which the most enlightened of
+the Spaniards entertained about the filibusters and buccaneers.
+
+It had needed all the devotion which the monk professed for Doņa Clara,
+and all the ascendancy that charming woman possessed over those who
+approached her, to make him consent to execute a plan so mad in his
+opinion, as that of entering into direct relation with one of the most
+renowned chiefs of the filibusters, and it was with a great tremor that
+he had accompanied his penitent to Nevis.
+
+When we met him, he was proceeding to the hatto, to inform Doņa Clara,
+as had been arranged between them, of the arrival of the filibustering
+squadron at Port Margot, and consequently of Montbart's presence in the
+island of Saint Domingo.
+
+Unfortunately the monk, but little used to night journeys, across
+untrodden roads which he must guess at every step, lost himself on the
+savannah; overcome with terror, almost dead with hunger, and worn out
+by fatigue, the monk had seen the light of a fire flashing a short
+distance off; the sight of this had restored him hope, if not courage,
+and he had consequently ridden as fast as he could toward the fire, and
+tumbled headlong into a boucan of French adventurers.
+
+In doing this, he unconsciously followed the example of the silly moth,
+which feels itself irresistibly attracted to the candle in which it
+singes its wings.
+
+More fortunate than these insects, the monk had burned nothing at
+all; he had rested, eaten and drunk well, and, apart from a very
+honest terror at finding himself so unexpectedly in such company, he
+had escaped pretty well, or at least he supposed so, from this great
+danger, and had even succeeded in obtaining a guide. Everything, then,
+was for the best, the Lord had not ceased to watch over His servant,
+and the latter only needed to let himself be guarded by Him. Moreover
+the monk's confidence was augmented by the taciturn carelessness of his
+guide who, without uttering a syllable, or even appearing to trouble
+himself about him the least in the world, walked in front of his
+horse, crossing the savannah obliquely, making a way through the tall
+grass, and seemed to direct himself as surely amid the darkness that
+surrounded him, as if he had been lit by the dazzling sunbeams.
+
+They went on thus for a long time following each other without the
+interchange of a word; like all the Spaniards, Fray Arsenio professed
+a profound contempt for the Indians, and it was much against his will
+that he ever entered into relations with them. For his part, the Carib
+was not at all anxious to carry on with this man, whom he regarded as a
+born foe of his race, a conversation which could only be an unimportant
+gossip.
+
+They had reached the top of a small hill, from which could be seen
+gleaming in the distance, like so many luminous dots, the watch fires
+of the soldiers encamped round the hatto, when all at once, instead
+of descending the hill and continuing his advance, Omopoua stopped,
+and looked round him anxiously, while strongly inhaling the air, and
+ordering the Spaniard by a wave of his hand to halt.
+
+The latter obeyed and remained motionless as an equestrian statue,
+while observing with a curiosity blended with a certain amount of
+discomfort, the manoeuvres of his guide.
+
+The Carib had laid himself down and was listening with his ear to the
+ground.
+
+At the end of a few minutes he rose again, though he did not cease
+listening.
+
+"What is the matter?" the monk, whom this conduct was beginning
+seriously to alarm, asked.
+
+"Horsemen are coming towards us at full speed."
+
+"Horsemen at this hour of night on the savannah?" Fray Arsenio remarked
+incredulously; "It is impossible."
+
+"Why, you are here?" the Indian said with a jeering smile.
+
+"Hum! That is true," the monk muttered, struck by the logic of the
+answer; "who can they be!"
+
+"I do not know, but I will soon tell you," the Carib answered.
+
+And before the monk had the time to ask him what his scheme was,
+Omopoua glided through the tall grass and disappeared, leaving Fray
+Arsenio greatly disconcerted at this sudden flight, and extremely
+annoyed at finding himself thus left alone in the middle of the desert.
+
+A few minutes elapsed, during which the monk tried, though in vain, to
+hear the sound which the Indian's sharp sense of hearing had caused him
+to catch long before, amid the confused rumours of the savannah.
+
+The monk, believing himself decidedly deserted by his guide, was
+preparing to continue his journey, leaving to Providence the care of
+bringing him safely into port, when he heard a slight rustling in the
+bushes close to him, and the Indian reappeared.
+
+"I have seen them," he said.
+
+"Ah!" the monk replied; "And who are they?"
+
+"White men like you."
+
+"Spaniards in that case?"
+
+"Yes, Spaniards."
+
+"All the better," Fray Arsenio continued, whom the good news completely
+reassured; "are they numerous?"
+
+"Five or six at least; they are proceeding like yourself, towards the
+hatto, where, as far as I could understand, they are very eager to
+arrive."
+
+"That is famous; where are they at this moment?"
+
+"Two stones' throw at the most. According to the direction they are
+following, they will pass the spot where you are now standing."
+
+"Better still. In that case we have only to wait."
+
+"You can do so, if you think proper; but I have no wish to meet them."
+
+"That is true, my friend," the monk remarked, with a paternal air. "And
+possibly such a meeting would not be agreeable to you; so pray accept
+my thanks for the manner in which you have guided me hitherto."
+
+"You are quite resolved on waiting for them, then? If you like, I can
+enable you to avoid them."
+
+"I have no motive for concealing myself from men of my own colour.
+Whoever they may be, I feel sure that I shall find friends in them."
+
+"Very good. Your affairs concern yourself, and I have nothing to do
+with them. But the sound is drawing nearer, and as they will speedily
+arrive, I will leave you, for it is unnecessary for them to find me
+here."
+
+"Farewell."
+
+"One last recommendation: if by chance they had a fancy to ask who
+served as your guide, do not tell them."
+
+"It is not at all probable they will ask this."
+
+"No matter. Promise me, if they do, to keep my secret."
+
+"Very good. I will be silent, since you wish it; although I do not
+understand the motive for such a recommendation."
+
+The monk had not finished the sentence, ere the Indian disappeared.
+
+The horsemen were rapidly approaching. The galloping of their steeds
+echoed on the ground like the rolling of thunder. Suddenly several
+shadows, scarcely distinguishable in the obscurity, rose as it were in
+the midst of the darkness, and a sharp voice shouted--
+
+"Who goes there?"
+
+"A friend!" the monk answered.
+
+"Tell your name, _Ąsangre de Dios!_" the voice repeated, passionately,
+while the dry snap of a pistol being cocked, sounded disagreeably in
+the monk's ears. "At night there are friends in the desert!"
+
+"I am a poor Franciscan monk, proceeding to the hatto del Rincón; and
+my name is Fray Arsenio Mendoza."
+
+A hoarse cry replied to the monk's words--a cry whose meaning he had
+not the time to conjecture; that is to say, whether it was the result
+of pleasure or anger; for the horsemen came up with him like lightning,
+and surrounded him even before he could understand the reason of such a
+headlong speed to reach him.
+
+"Why, seņores," he exclaimed, in a voice trembling with emotion, "what
+is the meaning of this? Have I to do with the _ladrones?_"
+
+"Good! Good! Calm yourself, Seņor Padre," a rough voice answered, which
+he fancied he recognised. "We are not _ladrones_, but Spaniards like
+yourself; and nothing could cause us more pleasure than meeting you at
+this moment."
+
+"I am delighted at what you say to me, caballero. I confess that
+at first the suddenness of your movements alarmed me; but now I am
+completely reassured."
+
+"All the better," the stranger replied, ironically; "for I want to talk
+with you."
+
+"Talk with me, seņor?" he said, with surprise.
+
+"The spot and the hour are badly chosen for an interview, I fancy. If
+you will wait till we reach the hatto, I will place myself at your
+disposal."
+
+"Enough talking. Get off your horse," the stranger observed, roughly;
+"unless you wish me to drag you off."
+
+The monk took a startled glance around him, but the horsemen looked at
+him savagely, and did not appear disposed to come to his help.
+
+Fray Arsenio, through profession and temperament, was quite the
+opposite of a brave man. The way in which the adventure began was
+commencing seriously to alarm him. He did not yet know into what
+hands he had fallen, but everything led him to suppose that these
+individuals, whoever they might be, were not actuated by kindly
+feelings towards him. Still any resistance was impossible, and he
+resigned himself to obey; but it was not without a sigh of regret,
+intended for the Carib, whose judicious advice he had spurned, that he
+at length got off his horse, and placed himself in front of his stern
+questioner.
+
+"Light a torch!" the strange horseman said. "I wish this man to
+recognise me, so that, knowing who I am, he may be aware that he cannot
+employ any subterfuge with me, and that frankness alone will save him
+from the fate that menaces him."
+
+The monk understood less and less. He really believed himself suffering
+from an atrocious nightmare.
+
+By the horseman's orders, however, one of his suite had lighted a torch
+of ocote wood.
+
+So soon as the flame played over the stranger's feature, and illumined
+his face, the monk gave a start of surprise, and clasped his hands at
+the same time as his countenance suddenly reassumed its serenity.
+
+"Heaven be praised!" he said, with an accent of beatitude impossible
+to render. "Is it possible that it can be you, Don. Stenio de Bejar? I
+was so far from believing that I should have the felicity of meeting
+you this night, Seņor Conde, that, on my faith, I did not recognise
+you, and felt almost frightened."
+
+The Count, for it was really he whom the monk had so unfortunately met,
+did not answer for the moment, but contented himself with smiling.
+
+Don Stenio de Bejar, who had left Saint Domingo at full speed, for the
+purpose of going to the hatto del Rincón, in order to convince himself
+of the truth of the information given him by Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+thus found himself, by the greatest accident, just as he was reaching
+his destination, and when he least expected it, face to face with Fray
+Arsenio Mendoza; that is to say, with the only man capable of proving
+to him peremptorily the truth or falsehood of the assertions of the
+spy, who had denounced Doņa Clara to her husband.
+
+Fray Arsenio's reputation for poltroonery had long been current among
+his countrymen, and hence nothing seemed more easy than to obtain from
+him the truth in its fullest details.
+
+The Count believed himself almost certain, by employing intimidation,
+to make Fray Arsenio confess what he knew: hence, so soon as the latter
+had mentioned his name, Don Stenio, warned by the spy, who rode at his
+side, resolved to terrify the monk, and thus render it impossible for
+him to resist the orders he might intimate to him.
+
+We take pleasure in believing that in acting thus, the Count had not
+the slightest intention of treating the monk with a violence, which
+in any case would be deplorable, but dishonourable on the part of
+a man in his position. Unfortunately, through the unforeseen and
+incomprehensible resistance which, contrary to all probability, the
+monk offered him, the Count was led away by his passion, and gave
+orders against his better judgment, when harshness and even cruelty
+could in no case be justified.
+
+After a silence of some seconds, Don Stenio fixed a piercing glance on
+the monk, as if he wished to read his very soul, and then seized him
+brutally by the arm.
+
+"Where have you come from?" he asked him, in a rough voice. "Is it the
+custom for monks of your order to ramble about the country at this hour
+of the night?"
+
+"My lord!" Fray Arsenio stammered, thrown off his guard by this
+question, which he was far from expecting.
+
+"Come, come!" the Count continued; "Answer at once, and let us have no
+subterfuge or tergiversation."
+
+"But, my lord, I do not at all understand this great anger which you
+appear to have with me. I am innocent, I vow!"
+
+"Ah! ah!" he said, with an ironical laugh; "You are innocent! _ĄViva
+Dios!_ you make haste to defend yourself before you are accused; hence
+you feel yourself guilty."
+
+Fray Arsenio was aware of the Count's jealousy, which he concealed so
+poorly, that, in spite of all his efforts, it was visible to everybody.
+Hence he understood that Doņa Clara's secret had been revealed to her
+husband; and he foresaw the peril that menaced him for having acted as
+her accomplice. Still, he hoped that the Count had only learnt certain
+facts, while remaining ignorant of the details of the Countess' voyage;
+and hence, though he trembled at heart at the thought of the dangers to
+which he was doubtless exposed, alone and defenceless, in the hands of
+a man blinded by passion and the desire of avenging what he regarded
+as a stain on his honour, he resolved, whatever might happen, not to
+betray the confidence which a woman had unhappily placed in him.
+
+He raised his head and replied with a firm voice, and with an accent at
+which he was himself astonished--
+
+"My lord, you are governor of Saint Domingo; you have a right to
+exercise justice over those placed under your rule. You possess almost
+sovereign power, but you have no right, as far as I know, to ill treat
+me, either by word or deed, or to make me undergo an examination at
+your caprice. I have superiors on whom I am dependant; have me taken
+before them; hand me over to their justice, if I have committed any
+fault they will punish me, for they alone have the right of condemning
+or acquitting me."
+
+The Count had listened to the monk's long answer, while biting his lips
+savagely and stamping his foot with passion. He had not thought to find
+such resistance in this man.
+
+"So, then," he exclaimed, when Fray Arsenio at length ceased speaking,
+"you refuse to answer me?"
+
+"I refuse, my lord," he coldly replied, "because you have no right to
+question me."
+
+"You forget, however, Seņor Padre, that if I have not the right, I have
+the might, at least, at this moment."
+
+"You are at liberty, my lord, to abuse that might, by applying it to an
+unhappy and defenceless man. I am no soldier, and physical suffering
+frightens me. I do not know how I shall endure the tortures you will
+perhaps inflict on me, but there is one thing of which I am certain."
+
+"What is it, may I ask, Seņor Padre?"
+
+"That I will die, my lord, before answering any of your questions."
+
+"We shall see that," he said, sarcastically, "if you compel me to have
+recourse to violence."
+
+"You will see," he replied, in a gentle but firm voice, which denoted
+an irrevocable determination.
+
+"For the last time, I deign to warn you: take care--reflect."
+
+"All my reflections are made, my lord; I am in your power. Abuse my
+weakness as you may think proper, I shall not even attempt a useless
+defence. I shall not be the first monk of my order who has fallen a
+martyr to duty: others have preceded me, and others will doubtless
+follow me in this painful track."
+
+The Count stamped his foot savagely; the spectators, dumb and
+motionless, exchanged terrified glances, for they foresaw that this
+scene would soon have a terrible denouement, between two men, neither
+of whom would make concessions; while the first of them, blinded by
+rage, would soon not be in a condition to listen to the salutary
+counsels of reason.
+
+"My lord," Don Antonio de la Ronda murmured, "the stars are beginning
+to turn pale, and the day will soon dawn; we are still far from the
+hatto, would it not be better to set out without further delay?"
+
+"Silence!" the Count answered, with a smile of contempt. "Pedro," he
+added, addressing one of his domestics, "a match."
+
+The valet dismounted and advanced with a long sulphured match in his
+hand.
+
+"The two thumbs," the Count said, laconically.
+
+The domestic approached the monk; the latter offered his hands without
+hesitation, although his face was fearfully pale, and his whole body
+trembled.
+
+Pedro coolly rolled the match between his two thumbs, passing it
+several times under his nails, and then turned to the Count.
+
+"For the last time, monk," the latter said, "will you speak?"
+
+"I have nothing to say to you, my lord," Fray Arsenio replied, in a
+soft voice.
+
+"Light it," the Count commanded, biting his lips till they bled.
+
+The valet, with the passive obedience distinguishing men of this class,
+set fire to the match.
+
+The monk fell on his knees and raised his eyes to Heaven. His face had
+assumed an earthy tint, a cold perspiration beaded on his temples, and
+his hair stood on end. The suffering he experienced must be horrible,
+for his chest heaved violently, although his parched lips remained dumb.
+
+The Count watched him anxiously.
+
+"Will you speak now, monk?" he said to him in a hollow voice.
+
+Fray Arsenio turned toward him a face whose features were distorted by
+pain, and gave him a look full of ineffable gentleness.
+
+"I thank you, my lord," he said, "for having taught me that pain does
+not exist for a man whose faith is lively."
+
+"My curses on you, wretch!" the Count exclaimed, as he hurled him down
+with a blow on the chest. "To horse, seņores, to horse, so that we may
+reach the hatto before sunrise."
+
+The cavaliers remounted, and went off at full speed, leaving, without
+a glance of compassion, the poor monk, who, vanquished by pain, had
+rolled fainting on the ground.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COLONY.
+
+
+A triple expedition, so serious as that conceived by Montbarts,
+demanded, for its success, extreme care and precautions.
+
+The few points occupied by the buccaneers on the Spanish isles, did not
+at all resemble towns; they were agglomerations of houses built without
+order, according to the liking or caprice of the owner, and occupying a
+space twenty-fold larger than they should have taken in accordance with
+the population. Hence, these points were spots almost impossible to
+defend against a well-combined attack of the Spaniards, if the thought
+occurred to the latter of finishing once for all with their formidable
+neighbours.
+
+Port Margot, for instance, the most important point in the French
+possessions as a strategic position, was only a miserable hamlet, open
+to all comers, without police or organization, where every language
+was spoken, and which Spanish spies entered with the greatest facility
+without incurring a risk of discovery, and thus scented the plans of
+the filibusters.
+
+Montbarts, before advancing and attacking the Spaniards, whom he
+correctly suspected of being already acquainted with the motive of
+his presence on the island, either through Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+or other spies, and not wishing, when he was preparing to surprise
+the enemy, to be himself surprised and see his retreat cut off by an
+unforeseen attack, resolved to shelter Port Margot from a _coup de
+main._
+
+The grand council of the filibusters was convened on board the
+admiral's lugger. In this way the resolutions formed by the council
+would not transpire outside, and not reach hostile ears, ever open to
+hear them.
+
+Two days after the departure of Lepoletais, the council therefore
+assembled on the deck of the vessel, which had been prepared for the
+purpose, as the admiral's cabin had been judged too small to contain
+all those whom their wealth or their reputation authorized in being
+present at the meeting.
+
+At ten in the morning, numerous skiffs left the shore and pulled
+alongside the lugger, boarding it on all sides simultaneously.
+
+Montbarts received the delegates as they presented themselves, and led
+them beneath the awning prepared for them.
+
+Ere long, all the delegates were assembled on board: they were forty
+in number; filibusters, buccaneers, and habitants, all adventurers who
+had lived for several years on the isles, and desperate enemies of
+the Spaniards. Their complexion, bronzed by the tropical sun, their
+energetic features, and flashing glances, made them resemble bandits
+rather than peaceful colonists; but their frank and decided manners
+allowed a guess at the prodigies of incredible daring which they had
+already accomplished, and were ready to accomplish again, when the
+moment for action arrived.
+
+When all the members of the council were on board, Michael the Basque
+gave the skiffs orders to return ashore, and to come alongside again
+when they saw a large black and red flag hoisted at the mainmast of the
+lugger. A splendid lunch preceded the council, which, was held at table
+and during the dessert, so as to foil any indiscreet glances, which
+were doubtless watching what was going on aboard from the top of the
+cliffs.
+
+When the repast was ended, and spirits, pipes, and tobacco had
+been laid on the table by the engagés, an order was given to remove
+the awning; the whole of the lugger's crew retired to the bows, and
+Montbarts, without leaving his seat, struck the table with his knife to
+request silence.
+
+The delegates vaguely knew that grave interests were about to be
+discussed, hence they had only eaten and drunk for form's sake, and
+though the table offered all the appearances of a true filibustering
+orgy, their brains were perfectly clear, and their heads cool.
+
+The road of Port Margot offered at this moment a strange spectacle,
+which was not deficient, however, in a certain picturesque and wild
+grandeur.
+
+Thousands of canoes were lying on their oars, forming an immense
+circle, of which the filibustering squadron was the centre.
+
+On shore, the cliffs and rocks were literally hidden by the confused
+and dense mass of spectators who had flocked from all the houses to
+watch, at a distance, this gigantic and Homeric feast, whose serious
+motive they were far from suspecting, beneath its frivolous appearance.
+
+Montbarts, after calling his friends' attention in a few words, to
+the enormous crowd of spectators who surrounded them, and showing how
+correct he had been in taking his precautions in consequence, filled
+his glass, and rose, shouting in a sonorous voice--
+
+"Brethren, the health of the king!"
+
+"The health of the king!" the filibusters responded, as they rose, and
+clinked their glasses together.
+
+At the same moment, all the guns of the lugger were discharged with a
+formidable noise; a loud clamour that rose from the beach proved that
+the spectators heartily joined in this patriotic toast.
+
+"Now," the admiral continued, as he sat down, which movement was
+imitated by his companions, "let us talk of our business, and be
+careful in doing so, that our gestures may not allow a suspicion of
+what is occupying us, since our words cannot be overheard."
+
+The council commenced its session. Montbarts, with the lofty views and
+clearness of expression he possessed, explained, in a few words, the
+critical position in which the colony would find it, unless energetic
+measures were taken, not only to place it in a position to defend
+itself, but also to hold out during the absence of the expedition.
+
+"I can understand," he said in conclusion, "that so long as we merely
+purposed to hunt wild bulls, such precautions were unnecessary, for our
+breasts were a sure rampart for our habitations; but from today the
+position is changed, we wish to create for ourselves an impregnable
+refuge; we are going to attack the Spaniards in their homes, and must
+consequently expect terrible reprisals from enemies, who, from the way
+in which we act towards them, will soon comprehend that we wish to
+remain the sole possessors of this land, which they have accustomed
+themselves to regard as belonging to them legitimately; we must,
+therefore, be in a position, not alone to resist them, but to inflict
+on them such a chastisement for their audacity, that they will be for
+ever disgusted with any fresh attempts to regain the territory we have
+conquered. To effect this, we must build a real town, in the place of
+the temporary camp which has, up to the present, sufficed us; and, with
+the exception of the members of our association, no stranger must be
+allowed to introduce himself among us, for the sake of spying us, and
+repeating to our enemies our secrets, whatever their nature may be."
+
+The filibusters warmly applauded these remarks, whose truth they
+recognized. They at length saw the necessity of setting order in their
+disorder, and entering the great human family, by themselves accepting
+some of those laws, from which they fancied they had enfranchised
+themselves for ever, and which are the sole condition of the vitality
+of society.
+
+Under the omnipotent influence of Montbarts and the members of the
+association of the Twelve, who were scattered about the meeting, the
+urgent measures were immediately discussed and settled; but when
+everything was arranged, the council suddenly found itself stopped
+short by a difficulty of which it had not thought at all--who was to be
+entrusted with the duty of carrying out the measures, as no buccaneer
+had a recognized authority over the rest?
+
+The difficulty was great; almost insurmountable. Still it was Montbarts
+who again smoothed down the difficulty to the general satisfaction.
+
+"Nothing is more easy," he said, "than to find the man we want; this
+is an exceptional case, and we must act according to circumstances.
+Let us elect a chief, as for a dangerous expedition, let us choose
+one who is energetic and intelligent, which will be a trifle, as the
+only difficulty will be the choice among so many equally good. This
+chief will be elected by us, the first for a year, his successor for
+only six months, in order to guard against any abuse of power they
+might eventually be attempted to try. This chief will assume the
+title of governor, and in reality govern all civil matters, assisted
+by a council of seven members, chosen by the habitants, as well as
+by subaltern agents, nominated by himself. The laws he will employ
+exist, for they are those of our association; it is understood that the
+governor will watch, like a captain aboard his ship, over the safety
+of the colony, and, in the event of treachery, will be punishable with
+death. This proposition is, I believe, the only one that we can take
+into consideration; does it suit you, brothers? Do you accept it?"
+
+The delegates replied by a universal affirmation,
+
+"In that case let us at once proceed to the election."
+
+"Pardon me, brothers," Belle Tęte said, "with your permission, I have a
+few remarks to submit to the council."
+
+"Speak, brother, we will hear you," Montbarts answered him.
+
+"I offer myself," Belle Tęte said frankly, "as governor, not through
+ambition, for that would be absurd, but because I believe that I am at
+this moment the best man for the place; you all know me, and hence I
+will not put forward my qualifications. Certain reasons urge me to try,
+if possible, to withdraw my promise, and not follow the expedition; to
+which, however, I feel convinced that I shall render great services, if
+you choose me as governor."
+
+"You have heard, brethren," Montbarts said, "consult together, but fill
+your glasses first, you have ten minutes to reflect; at the end of that
+time all the glasses that have not been emptied will be considered as
+adverse votes."
+
+"Ah, traitor," Michael the Basque said, leaning over to Belle Tęte's
+ear, by whose side he was seated, "I know why you want to stop at Port
+Margot."
+
+"You? Stuff," he answered with embarrassment.
+
+"Zounds, it is not difficult to guess, you are caught, mate."
+
+"Well, it is true, and you are right, that little devil of a woman I
+bought at St. Kitts has turned my head; she turns me round her little
+finger."
+
+"Ah! love!" Michael said ironically.
+
+"The deuce take love, and the woman too; a girl no bigger than that,
+whom I could smash with one blow."
+
+"She is very pretty, you showed good taste; her name is Louise, is it
+not?"
+
+"Yes, Louise; it was a bad bargain I made."
+
+"Nonsense!" Michael said, with the utmost seriousness, "well, there is
+a way of arranging the matter."
+
+"Do you think so?"
+
+"Zounds, I am sure of it."
+
+"I should like to know it, for I confess to you that she has completely
+upset my ideas; the confounded girl, with her bird's voice, and sly
+smile, turns me about like a whirligig: by Heaven, I am the most
+unfortunate of men--tell me your plan, brother."
+
+"Why, sell her to me."
+
+Belle Tęte suddenly turned pale at this blunt offer, which, indeed,
+settled everything; but which, though he did not suspect it, Michael
+only made in a joke, and to try him; he frowned, and angrily replied in
+a voice trembling with emotion, and striking the table with his fist--
+
+"Zounds, mate, that is a magnificent way you have found, but the fiend
+take me if I accept it; no, no, whatever sorrow the little witch causes
+me--have I not told you that she has bewitched me?--I love her! Blood
+and thunder, do you understand that?"
+
+"Of course I understand it; but come, reassure yourself, I have not
+the slightest intention of depriving you of your Louise; what should I
+do with a wife? Besides, what I have seen of other men's love affairs,
+does not offer me the slightest inducement to try it on my own account."
+
+"All right," Belle Tęte replied, reassured by this frank declaration,
+"that is speaking like a man; and, after all, you are right, brother;
+although I would not consent for anything in the world to part with my
+Louise, still, after the experience I have of her, if the bargain was
+to be made again, hang me if I would purchase her."
+
+"Stuff!" said Michael, with a shrug of his shoulders, "Men always say
+that, and when the moment arrives, they never fail to begin the same
+folly over again."
+
+Belle Tęte reflected for a moment, and then tapped Michael amicably on
+the shoulder, at the same time saying with a laugh--
+
+"On my word that is true, brother; you are right, I believe that I
+should really behave as you say."
+
+"I am certain of it," Michael replied, with another shrug of his
+shoulders.
+
+During this aside, between the two adventurers, the ten minutes had
+elapsed.
+
+"Brethren," said Montbarts, "we are about to proceed to an examination
+of the votes."
+
+He looked: all the glasses were empty.
+
+"You are unanimous," he said, "and that is well. Brother Belle Tęte,
+you are elected governor of Port Margot."
+
+"Brethren," the latter said, bowing all round, "I thank you for having
+given me your votes. I shall not deceive your expectations; our colony,
+even though I was obliged to bury myself beneath its ruins, shall never
+fall into the hands of the Spaniards, and you know me well enough not
+to doubt my oath. I intend to set to work this very day; for, as our
+admiral has very justly said, we have not a moment to lose. Confide the
+duty of guarding your interests to me."
+
+"Before we separate," said Montbarts, "it would be as well, I fancy, to
+agree to keep our deliberations secret for a few days."
+
+"You may divulge them tomorrow without danger," Belle Tęte continued;
+"but allow me, brethren, to choose from among you the few assistants I
+shall require."
+
+"Do so," the filibusters answered.
+
+Belle Tęte named eight adventurers, whose blind bravery he knew, and
+then addressed the delegates for the last time, who were already rising
+and preparing to leave the ship.
+
+"You remember, I trust that I am considered by you the leader of an
+expedition."
+
+"Yes," they replied.
+
+"Consequently you owe me the most perfect obedience to all the orders I
+shall give you in the common interest."
+
+"Yes," they repeated.
+
+"You swear, then, to obey me without any hesitation or murmuring?"
+
+"We do."
+
+"Very good; now farewell for the present, brothers."
+
+The boats had been recalled by a flag hoisted at the main yard, and a
+few minutes after all the delegates had left the ship, except Belle
+Tęte and the eight officers chosen by him.
+
+Montbarts and Belle Tęte remained shut up for some hours, doubtless
+settling the measures which must be adopted in order to obtain the
+desired result as soon as possible; then, a little before sunset,
+the new Governor took leave of the Admiral, entered a boat prepared
+expressly for him, and returned ashore, followed by his officers.
+
+About eleven o'clock in the evening, when the town appeared completely
+asleep, when all doors were shut, and lights extinguished, an observer
+in a position to see what was going on, would have noticed a strange
+spectacle.
+
+Armed men glided gently out of the houses, casting inquiring glances
+to the right and left, that seemed trying to pierce the profound
+darkness by which they were surrounded. They proceeded separately on
+tiptoe to the principal square, where they joined other men armed like
+themselves, who, having arrived first, were waiting.
+
+Ere long the number of these men, which was augmented every moment,
+became considerable; at an order, given in a low voice, they broke up
+into several parties, left the square by different outlets, went out of
+the town, and formed a wide circle all round it.
+
+One last band of about forty men had remained in the square, however;
+this party was broken up in its turn, but, instead of also leaving the
+town, platoons, composed of ten men each, went from the square in four
+different directions, and entered the streets.
+
+The latter were proceeding to pay domiciliary visits; no house escaped
+their vigilance, they entered all, searching them with the most
+scrupulous exactness, sounding the walls and flooring, and even opening
+cupboards and chests.
+
+Such minute researches necessarily occupied a long time, and did not
+terminate till sunrise.
+
+Eight Spanish spies had been discovered in the houses, and three
+arrested by the sentries at the moment when they attempted flight, or
+eleven in all.
+
+The Governor had them temporarily put in irons aboard the lugger, so
+that they could not escape.
+
+At sunrise, buccaneers, habitants, engagés, and filibusters, all armed
+with spades, pickaxes, and hatchets, set about digging a trench round
+the town.
+
+This job, which was performed with extraordinary ardor, lasted three
+days; the trench was twelve feet wide, by fifteen deep, and the earth
+was thrown up on the side of the town; on this _talus_ stakes were
+planted, bound together with strong iron bands, embrasures being left
+to place guns, and for loopholes.
+
+While the entire population thus laboured with the feverish ardor that
+accomplishes prodigies, large clearings had been effected in the woods
+surrounding the port; then the forest was fired, care being taken that
+the fire should not extend beyond a demi-league in all directions.
+
+These gigantic works, which, in ordinary times, would demand a
+lengthened period, were finished at the end of ten days, which would
+seem incredible were not the fact stated in several records worthy of
+belief.
+
+Port Margot was thus, thanks to the energy of its Governor, and the
+passive obedience with which the filibusters executed his orders,
+not only protected against a _coup de main_, but also rendered
+capable of resisting a regular siege. And this had been effected with
+such secrecy, that nothing had transpired abroad; and owing to the
+precautions taken at the outset, the Spaniards had no suspicion of the
+change so menacing to them, and which presaged an internecine war.
+
+When the fortifications were finished, the Governor had eleven gallows
+erected, at a certain distance from each other, on the glacis. The
+unhappy Spanish spies were suspended from them, and their bodies were
+fastened to the gallows by iron chains, so that, as Belle Tęte said,
+with an ill-omened smile, the sight of the corpses might terrify those
+of their compatriots, who might be tempted to follow their example,
+and introduce themselves into the town.
+
+All the habitants were then convoked in the chief square, and Belle
+Tęte mounted a platform erected for the purpose, and announced to them
+the determinations formed aboard the lugger, his nomination to the post
+of Governor, the measures he had thought it his duty to take for the
+general welfare, and ended by asking their approbation.
+
+This approbation the inhabitants most willingly granted, because they
+found themselves in presence of accomplished facts, which did not in
+any way injure them.
+
+The Governor, thus finding his undertakings sanctioned, invited the
+inhabitants to nominate a council of seven members chosen from among
+themselves; and this proposition they joyfully accepted, because they
+justly anticipated that these councillors would defend their interests.
+
+The seven municipal councillors were therefore elected at once, and, by
+the Governor's invitation, took their seat by his side on the platform.
+
+Then the Governor informed his audience that nothing was changed in the
+colony, which would continue to be governed by the laws in force among
+the filibusters, that everyone would live in the same liberty as in the
+past, and that the measures taken were solely intended to protect the
+interests of all, and in no way to annoy the colonists, or subject them
+to a humiliating yoke.
+
+This final assurance produced the best effect on the crowd, and the
+Governor retired, amid shouts and the warmest protestations of devotion.
+
+Although Montbarts had chosen to remain obstinately in the background,
+all these ameliorations were solely due to him; Belle Tęte had merely
+been a passive and submissive agent in his hands.
+
+When the Admiral, saw matters in the state he desired, he resolved
+to depart, and after a final interview with the Governor, he placed
+himself at the head of his filibusters, and left the town.
+
+Michael the Basque had departed several hours previously, entrusted
+with a secret mission, and accompanied by ninety resolute men.
+
+From this moment the expedition commenced; but what its result would be
+no one could as yet foretell.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+THE FLIGHT FROM THE HATTO.
+
+
+Without taking the time to peruse the letters that were handed him,
+Don Sancho concealed them in his doublet, and proceeded hastily to his
+sister's apartment.
+
+She was anxiously awaiting him.
+
+"Here you are at last, brother," she exclaimed on perceiving him.
+
+"What," the young man replied, as he kissed her hand, "were you
+expecting me?"
+
+"Oh, yes, that I was; but you are very late--what has kept you so
+long?" she asked, in agitation.
+
+"Where have I been? Why, s'death! I have been hunting, the only
+pleasure allowed a gentleman in this horrible country."
+
+"What, at this hour?"
+
+"Zounds, my dear Clara, a man gets home when he can, especially in this
+country, where we ought to feel very happy at reaching home again at
+all."
+
+"You are speaking in enigmas, brother, and I do not at all understand
+you; be kind enough, therefore, to explain yourself clearly--have you
+fallen into bad company?"
+
+"Yes, and very bad, too; but forgive me, my dear Clara, if you have no
+objection, let us proceed regularly. You desired to see me immediately
+on my return, and here I am at your orders; be kind enough, therefore,
+to tell me how I can possibly be of service to you, and then I will
+narrate the series of singular events with which my today's sport
+has been diversified. I will not hide from you that I have certain
+questions to ask of you, and certain explanations, which I feel sure
+you will not refuse to give me."
+
+"What do you mean, Sancho?"
+
+"Nothing at present; do you speak first, sister."
+
+"Well, if you insist on it--"
+
+"I do not insist at all, sister--I only request it."
+
+"Very good, I yield to your request; I have received several letters."
+
+"So I have; but I confess that I have not read them yet, and do not
+think they are of any great importance."
+
+"I have read mine, and do you know what they tell me beside other news?"
+
+"Indeed, no, unless it be my appointment to the post of Alcade Mayor
+of Hispaniola, which, I allow, would greatly surprise me," he said,
+laughingly.
+
+"Do not jest so, Sancho; the matter is very serious."
+
+"Really? In that case speak, little sister. You see I have as solemn a
+face as your dear husband."
+
+"It is exactly to him I refer."
+
+"Stuff! My brother-in-law? Has any accident happened to him in the
+performance of his noble and wearisome duties?"
+
+"No, on the contrary, he is in better health than usual."
+
+"In that case, all the better for him; I wish him no harm, though he is
+the most fastidious gentleman of my acquaintance."
+
+"Will you listen to me--yes or no?" she asked, impatiently.
+
+"Why, I am doing so, dear sister."
+
+"You are really insupportable."
+
+"Come, do not be angry--I have done; I will not laugh anymore."
+
+"Have you seen the two Fifties encamped in front of the hatto?"
+
+"Yes, and I must allow that I was greatly surprised to see them."
+
+"You will be much more surprised on hearing that my husband is coming
+here."
+
+"He? Impossible, sister! He did not say a word to me about the journey."
+
+"Because it is secret."
+
+"Ah, ah!" the young man remarked, with a frown; "And are you sure that
+he is coming?"
+
+"Certain. The person who writes me so was present at his departure,
+which no one suspects; the courier who brought me the news, and to whom
+the greatest diligence was recommended, is only a few hours ahead of
+him."
+
+"This is, indeed, serious," the young man muttered.
+
+"What is to be done?"
+
+"S'death!" the young man replied, carelessly, but gazing fixedly at
+Doņa Clara--"Welcome him."
+
+"Oh!" the lady exclaimed, twisting her hands despairingly, "I have been
+betrayed--he is coming to avenge himself!"
+
+"Avenge himself? For what, sister?"
+
+She gave him a look of strange significance, and then bent over him.
+
+"I am ruined, brother," she said, in a hollow voice, "for this man
+knows everything, and will kill me."
+
+Don Sancho, in spite of himself, was affected by this sorrow; he adored
+his sister, and felt ashamed of the part he was playing at this moment
+before her.
+
+"And I, too, Clara," he said to her, "know everything."
+
+"You! Oh, you are jesting, brother."
+
+"No, I am not; I love you, and wish to save you, even if I gave my life
+to do so: hence, reassure yourself, and do not fix upon me eyes haggard
+with grief."
+
+"What do you know, in heaven's name?"
+
+"I know that which probably a traitor, as you called him, has sold to
+your husband, that is to say, that you left the hatto, went aboard a
+vessel, which conveyed you to Nevis, and there--"
+
+"Oh! Not a word more, brother," she exclaimed as she fell into his
+arms; "you are really well informed, but I swear to you, brother,
+in the name of what is most sacred in the world, that, although
+appearances condemn me, I am innocent."
+
+"I know it, sister, and never doubted it; what is your intention, will
+you await your husband here?"
+
+"Never, never! Did I not tell you he would kill me?"
+
+"What is to be done then?"
+
+"Fly, fly without delay; at once."
+
+"But where shall we go?"
+
+"How do I know? To the cliff or the forest, live among the wild beasts
+sooner than remain any longer here."
+
+"Very good, we will go, I know where to take you."
+
+"You?"
+
+"Yes, did I not tell you that sundry accidents happened to me today
+while hunting?"
+
+"So you did; but what has that to do with it?"
+
+"A great deal," he interrupted; "the Major-domo, who accompanied me,
+and I tumbled over an encampment of filibusters."
+
+"Ah," she said, turning paler than she had been before.
+
+"Yes, and I intend to conduct you to that encampment; besides, one of
+the buccaneers entrusted me with a message for you."
+
+"What do you mean?"
+
+"Exactly what I am saying, sister."
+
+She appeared to reflect for an instant, and then turned resolutely to
+the young man.
+
+"Well, be it so, brother, let us go to those men, though they are
+represented as so cruel; perhaps every human feeling has not been
+extinguished in their hearts, and they will take pity on me."
+
+"When shall we go?"
+
+"As speedily as possible."
+
+"That is true, but the hatto is probably watched and the soldiers have
+doubtless secret orders, you may be a prisoner without suspecting it,
+my poor sister; for what other reason would the two Fifties be here?"
+
+"Oh! In that case I am lost."
+
+"Perhaps there is one way, and the orders given doubtless only affect
+you; but unfortunately the journey will be long, fatiguing, and beset
+with numberless perils."
+
+"What matter, brother? I am strong, do not be anxious about me."
+
+"Very good, we will try; you are absolutely determined on flight?"
+
+"Yes, whatever may befall me."
+
+"Well then, we will put our trust in heaven, wait for me a moment."
+
+The young man left the room and returned a few minutes later, bearing a
+rather large bundle under his arm.
+
+"Here are my page's clothes, I do not know how they happen to be in
+my possession, but my valet probably placed them in my portmanteau by
+mistake, for they are new, and I remember that the tailor brought them
+home a few minutes before my departure from Saint Domingo, but I thank
+accident for causing it to be so. Dress yourself, wrap yourself up
+in a cloak, put this hat on your head, I will answer for everything.
+Besides, this costume is preferable to your woman's clothes for
+crossing the savannah; mind and not forget to place these pistols and
+this dagger in your belt, for there is no knowing what may happen."
+
+"Thanks brother! I shall be ready in a quarter of an hour."
+
+"Good; during that time I will go and reconnoitre; do not open the door
+to anyone but me."
+
+"You may depend upon me."
+
+The young man lit a cigarette and left the apartment with the most
+careless air he could assume.
+
+On entering the zaguán, the Count found himself face to face with the
+Major-domo. Seņor Birbomono had such an anxious look that it did not
+escape Don Sancho; still he continued to advance, pretending not to
+notice it.
+
+But the Major-domo came straight up to him.
+
+"I am glad to meet you, Excellency," he said, "if you had not come
+within ten minutes, I should have knocked at the door of your
+apartment."
+
+"Ah!" Don Sancho observed, "What pressing motive was there to urge you
+to such a step?"
+
+"Is your Excellency aware of what is taking place?" the Major-domo
+continued, without appearing to notice the young man's ironical tone.
+
+"What! Is there really anything happening?"
+
+"Does not your Excellency know it?"
+
+"Probably not, as I ask you; after all, as the news, I am sure,
+interests me but very slightly, you are quite at liberty not to tell it
+to me."
+
+"On the contrary, Excellency, it interests you as well as all the
+inhabitants of the hatto."
+
+"Oh! oh! What is it then?"
+
+"It appears that the commander of the two Fifties, has placed sentries
+all round the hatto."
+
+"Very good, in that case, we need not fear being attacked by the
+buccaneers, of whom you are so afraid, and I will thank the commandant
+for it."
+
+"You are at liberty to do so, Excellency, but I fancy you will find it
+difficult."
+
+"Why so?"
+
+"Because orders are given to let anyone enter the hatto but nobody
+leave it."
+
+A shudder ran through the young man's veins on hearing this; he turned
+frightfully pale, but recovering himself almost immediately, remarked
+carelessly,
+
+"Stuff! that order cannot affect me."
+
+"Pardon me, Excellency, it is general."
+
+"In that case, you think that, if I tried to go out--"
+
+"You would be stopped."
+
+"Confound it, that is very annoying, not that I have any intention of
+going out, but as by my character, I am very fond of doing things which
+are prohibited--"
+
+"You would like to take a walk, I suppose, Excellency?"
+
+Don Sancho looked at Birbomono, as if trying to read his thoughts.
+
+"And suppose such were my intention?" he resumed presently.
+
+"I would undertake to get you out."
+
+"You?"
+
+"Yes, I; am I not the Major-domo of the hatto?"
+
+"That is true; thus, the prohibition does not extend to you?"
+
+"To me, as to the rest, Excellency; but the soldiers do not know the
+hatto as I know; I could Slip between their fingers, whenever I liked."
+
+"I have strong inclination to try it."
+
+"Do so, Excellency; I have three horses at a spot where no one but
+myself could find them."
+
+"Why, three horses?" the young man asked, pricking up his ears.
+
+"Because, doubtless, you do not wish to ride with me only, but will
+take someone with you."
+
+Don Sancho, understanding that the Major-domo had penetrated his
+thoughts, made up his mind at once.
+
+"Let us play fairly," he said, "can you be faithful."
+
+"I am so, and devoted too, Excellency, as you have a proof."
+
+"What assures me that you are not laying a trap for me?"
+
+"With what object?"
+
+"That of obtaining a reward from the Count."
+
+"No, Excellency, no reward would induce me to betray my mistress; I may
+be anything you please, but I love Doņa Clara, who has always been kind
+to me, and has often protected me."
+
+"I am willing to believe you, and indeed have no time to discuss the
+point, but here are my conditions: a bullet through the head if you
+betray me, a thousand piastres if you are faithful; do you accept them?"
+
+"I do, Excellency, the thousand piastres are gained."
+
+"You know that I do not threaten in vain."
+
+"I know you."
+
+"Very good, what must we do?"
+
+"Follow me, that is all; our flight will be most easy, for I prepared
+everything on my return; I had my suspicions on seeing those demons
+of soldiers, suspicions which were soon changed into certainty, after
+some skilful inquiries here and there; my devotion to my mistress
+rendered me clear sighted, and you see that I acted wisely in taking my
+precautions."
+
+The accent with which the Major-domo pronounced these words, had such a
+stamp of truth, his face was so frank and open, that the young Count's
+last suspicions were dissipated.
+
+"Wait for me," he said, "I will go and fetch my sister."
+
+And he hurried away.
+
+"Oh!" said Birbomono, with a grin, so soon as he was alone, "I do not
+know whether Seņor don Stenio de Bejar will be pleased at seeing his
+wife escape in this way, when he felt so certain of holding her; poor
+seņora! She is so good to us all, that it would be infamous to betray
+her, and then, after all, this is a good deed which brings me one
+thousand piastres," he added, rubbing his hands, "that is a very decent
+amount."
+
+It was about eleven o'clock at night, all the lights in the hatto
+were extinguished by orders of the Major-domo, who had provided for
+everything; the slaves had been dismissed to their huts, and a solemn
+silence brooded over the landscape, a silence solely interrupted at
+regular intervals, by the sentries who challenged each other in a
+monotonous voice.
+
+Don Sancho soon returned, accompanied by his sister, wrapped up like
+himself, in a long mantle.
+
+Doņa Clara did not speak, but on joining the Major-domo, she
+gracefully held out her right hand to him, on which he respectfully
+impressed his lips.
+
+Although the officers had told the soldiers to keep a good guard, and
+watch carefully, not only the hatto, but its environs, the latter,
+slightly reassured by the darkness on one hand, and on the other,
+by the gloomy and mysterious depths of the forests that surrounded
+them, stood motionless behind the trees, contenting themselves with
+responding to the challenge, every half hour, but not venturing to go
+even a few yards from the shelter they had chosen.
+
+The reasons for this apparent cowardice, were simple, and although we
+have explained them, we will repeat them here, for the sake of greater
+clearness.
+
+In the early times of the buccaneers landing on Saint Domingo, the
+Fifties sent by the governor in pursuit of them, were armed with
+muskets; but after several encounters with the French, in which the
+latter gave them an awful thrashing, their terror of the adventurers
+became so great that, whenever they were sent on an expedition against
+these men, whom they almost regarded as demons, no sooner did they
+enter the forests, or the mountain gorges, or even the savannahs, where
+they might suppose the buccaneers to be ambushed, than they began
+to fire their pieces right and left, for the purpose of warning the
+enemies, and inducing them to withdraw.
+
+The result of this clever manoeuvre was that the adventurers, thus
+warned, decamped in reality, and thus became intangible; the governor
+noticing this result, eventually guessed its cause, and hence, in order
+to avoid such a thing in future, he took the muskets away from the
+soldiers and substituted lances. This change, let us hasten to add, was
+not at all to the liking of these brave soldiers, who thus saw their
+ingenious scheme foiled, and were even more exposed to the blows of
+their formidable enemies.
+
+It was almost without being obliged to take any other precaution than
+that of walking noiselessly and not speaking, that the Major-domo and
+the two persons he served as guide, succeeded in quitting the hatto on
+the opposite side to that on which the Fifties had established their
+bivouac.
+
+Once the line of sentries was passed, the fugitives hurried on more
+rapidly, and soon reached a thicket in the midst of which three fully
+accoutred horses were so thoroughly hidden that unless known to be
+there, it would have been impossible to find them; for a greater
+precaution, and to prevent them from neighing, the Major-domo had
+fastened a cord round their nostrils.
+
+So soon as the three were mounted, and before starting, Birbomono
+turned to Don Sancho,--
+
+"Where are we going, Excellency?" he asked.
+
+"Do you know the spot where the buccaneers we met today are
+bivouacked?" the young man replied.
+
+"Yes, Excellency."
+
+"Do you think you could succeed in finding the bivouac in the midst of
+the darkness?"
+
+The Major-domo smiled.
+
+"Nothing is more easy," he said.
+
+"In that case lead us to those men."
+
+"Very good; but, Excellency, be good enough not press your horse on at
+present, for we are still near the house, and the slightest imprudence
+would be sufficient to give an alarm."
+
+"Do you think, then, that they would venture to pursue us?"
+
+"Separately, certainly not; but as they are so numerous, they would
+not hesitate; the less so, because from what I heard them say, they
+feel certain that the buccaneers have never come into these parts. This
+redoubles their bravery, and they would perhaps not be sorry to furnish
+a proof of it at our expense."
+
+"Excellent reasoning; regulate our pace, therefore, as you think
+proper, and we will only act in accordance with your judgment."
+
+They set out; with the exception of the precautions they were obliged
+to take not to be discovered, the journey had nothing disagreeable
+about it, on a bright and perfumed night, beneath a sky studded with
+brilliant stars, and in the midst of a most delightful scenery, whose
+slightest diversities the transparency of the atmosphere allowed to be
+seen.
+
+After an hour spent in a moderate trot, their pace became insensibly
+more rapid, and the horses growing gradually more excited, eventually
+broke into a gallop, at which their riders kept them for a considerable
+period.
+
+Doņa Clara bent over her horse's neck, and with her eyes eagerly fixed
+ahead, seemed to upbraid the slowness of this ride, which, however, had
+assumed the headlong speed of a pursuit: at times she leant over to her
+brother, who constantly kept by her side, and asked him in a choking
+voice--
+
+"Shall we soon arrive?"
+
+"Yes, have patience, sister," the young man said, suppressing a sigh of
+pity for the agony which preyed on his sister's heart.
+
+And their pace grew more rapid than ever.
+
+The stars were already expiring in the heavens, the atmosphere was
+growing refreshed, the horizon was striped by long mother-o'-pearl
+coloured bands, a light sea breeze brought up to the travellers its
+alkaline odours, and the night had passed. Suddenly, at the moment
+when the three riders were about to emerge from a thick wood, in which
+they had been following a track made by the wild cattle for nearly an
+hour, the Major-domo, who was a few yards ahead, pulled up his horse
+and leant back.
+
+"Stop, in Heaven's name!" he exclaimed, in a low voice.
+
+The young couple obeyed, though they did not comprehend this order.
+
+The Major-domo went up to them.
+
+"Look!" he muttered, and stretched out his arm toward the savannah.
+
+A rapid gallop, that drew nearer every second, but which the noise of
+their own march had prevented them from hearing, now smote their ears,
+and almost at the same moment they saw through the screen of foliage
+which hid them from sight, several horsemen pass as if borne along by a
+hurricane.
+
+A branch struck off the hat of one of the riders as he passed.
+
+"Don Stenio!" Doņa Clara exclaimed in horror.
+
+"Zounds!" Don Sancho said, "We were just in time."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+EVENTS ACCUMULATE.
+
+
+The horsemen had continued their wild course without perceiving the
+fugitives: one of them, indeed, at the cry uttered by Doņa Clara, had
+made a gesture as if to stop his steed, but doubtless supposing that
+he had been mistaken, he followed his companions after a moment's
+hesitation, which was very fortunate for him, as Don Sancho had already
+drawn a pistol, with the resolution of blowing out his brains.
+
+For some minutes the fugitives remained motionless, anxiously listening
+to the galloping of the horses, whose sound rapidly retired, and was
+soon lost in the distance, when it became confounded with the other
+noises of the night.
+
+Then they breathed again, and Don Sancho put back in his holster the
+pistol which he had held in his hand up to this moment.
+
+"Hum!" he muttered; "Only the thickness of a bush saved us from being
+discovered."
+
+"Heaven be thanked!" Doņa Clara said; "We are saved!"
+
+"That is to say, my little sister, we are not caught," the young man
+replied, incapable of maintaining his seriousness for five minutes,
+however grave circumstances might be.
+
+"They are going at a tremendous pace," the Major-domo now remarked; "we
+have nothing more to fear from them."
+
+"In that case, let us be off," Don Sancho replied.
+
+"Yes, yes, let us go," Doņa Clara murmured.
+
+They dashed out of the thicket which had offered them so sure a
+protection, and entered the plain.
+
+The sky became lighter every moment; and although the sun was still
+beneath the horizon, its influence was beginning to be felt. Nature
+appeared to shake off her nocturnal sleep; some birds were already
+awake under the soft leaves, and preluding, by soft twittering, their
+matin chant; the dark outlines of savage animals bounded through the
+tall dew-laden grass; and the birds of prey, expanding their mighty
+wings, rose high in æther, as if they wished to go and meet the sun,
+and salute its advent: in a word, it was no longer night, without being
+fully day.
+
+"Ah! What I do see at the foot of that mound?" Don Sancho suddenly said.
+
+"Where?" Birbomono asked.
+
+"There, straight in front of us."
+
+The Major-domo placed his hands over his eyes, and looked attentively.
+
+"_ĄViva Dios!_" he exclaimed, at the end of a moment, "It is a man!"
+
+"A man?"
+
+"On my word, yes, Excellency; and, as far as I can distinguish at this
+distance, a Carib savage."
+
+"Zounds! What is he doing on that mound?"
+
+"We shall be able to assure ourselves of that more easily directly,
+unless he thinks proper to keep out of our way."
+
+"Well, let us go to him, in Heaven's name."
+
+"Brother," Doņa Clara objected, "what is the use of lengthening our
+journey, when we are so hurried?"
+
+"That is true," the young man said.
+
+"Reassure yourself, seņora," the Major-domo observed; "that hillock is
+exactly on the road we must follow, and we cannot help passing it."
+
+Doņa Clara said no more, and the trio set out again.
+
+They soon reached the mound, which they ascended at a gallop.
+
+The Carib had not quitted the spot, but the riders stopped in stupor on
+perceiving that he was not alone.
+
+The Indian, kneeling on the ground, appearing to be attending to a man
+stretched out before him, and who was beginning to regain his senses.
+
+"Fray Arsenio!" Doņa Clara exclaimed at the sight of this man. "Great
+Heavens! He is dead!"
+
+"No," the Indian answered in a gentle voice, as he turned to her, "but
+he has been most horribly tortured."
+
+"He! Tortured?" his hearers exclaimed, unanimously.
+
+"Look at his hands," the Carib continued.
+
+The Spaniards uttered a cry of horror and pity at the sight of the poor
+monk's bleeding and swollen thumbs.
+
+"Oh, it is frightful!" they murmured, sadly.
+
+"Wretch," Don Sancho said in his indignation, "you have brought him to
+this state!"
+
+The Carib shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.
+
+"The paleface is mad!" he replied; "My brothers do not torture the
+chiefs of prayer--they respect them. White men, like himself, have
+inflicted this atrocious punishment upon him."
+
+"Explain yourself, in Heaven's name," Doņa Clara continued; "how is it
+that we find this worthy monk here in such a pitiable state?"
+
+"It will be better to let him explain himself when he has regained his
+senses. Omopoua knows but little."
+
+"That is true," Doņa Clara said, as she dismounted and knelt by the
+side of the wounded man. "Poor fellow! What frightful suffering he must
+be enduring."
+
+"Can you not tell us anything, then?" Don Sancho asked.
+
+"Almost nothing," the chief replied, "this is all that I know."
+
+And he narrated in what way the monk had been confided to him, and how
+he had served as his guide, till they met the white men, when the monk
+discharged him for the purpose of joining them.
+
+"But," he added, "I know not why, some secret foreboding seemed to
+warn me not to leave him: hence, instead of going away I hid myself in
+the shrubs, and witnessed, unseen, the tortures they had him undergo,
+while insisting on his revealing to them a secret, which he refused to
+divulge. Conquered by his constancy, they at length abandoned him half
+dead. Then I rushed from my hiding place, and flew to his help. That is
+all I know; I am a chief, I have no forked tongue, and a falsehood has
+never sullied the lips of Omopoua."
+
+"Forgive me, Chief, the improper language I used at the first moment; I
+was blinded by anger and sorrow," said Don Sancho, holding out his hand.
+
+"The paleface is young," the chief replied with a smile; "his tongue
+moves more quickly than his heart;" then he took the hand so frankly
+offered him, and pressed it cordially.
+
+"Oh, oh!" the Major-domo said, with a shake of his head, and leaning
+over to Don Sancho's ear, "If I am not greatly mistaken, Don Stenio is
+mixed up in this affair."
+
+"It is not possible," Don Sancho replied, with horror.
+
+"You do not know your brother-in-law, Excellency; his is a weak nature,
+and all such are cruel; believe me, I am certain of what I state."
+
+"No, no, it would be too frightful."
+
+"Good Heaven," Doņa Clara said, at this moment, "we cannot remain here
+any longer, and yet I should not like to abandon the poor man."
+
+"Let us take him with us," Don Sancho quickly remarked.
+
+"But will his wounds permit him to endure the fatigue of a long ride?"
+
+"We are almost at our journey's end," the Major-domo said, and then,
+turning to the Carib, added--
+
+"We are going to the bivouac of the two buccaneers, who were hunting on
+the savannah yesterday."
+
+"Very good;" said the chief, "I will lead the palefaces by a narrow
+road, and they will arrive ere the sun reaches the edges of the
+horizon."
+
+Doņa Clara and her brother remounted. The monk was cautiously placed in
+front of the Major-domo, and the small party set out again at a foot
+pace, under the guidance of the Carib chief.
+
+Poor Fray Arsenio gave no other signs of existence but deep sighs,
+which at intervals heaved his chest, and stifled groans torn from him
+by suffering.
+
+At the end of three quarters of an hour they reached the boucan, by the
+near cut, which Omopoua indicated to them.
+
+It was empty, but not deserted, as was proved by the bull hides, still
+stretched out on the ground, and held down by pegs, and the boucaned
+meat suspended from the forks of the branches.
+
+The adventurers were probably away, hunting.
+
+The travellers were considerably annoyed by this contretemps, but
+Omopoua relieved them of their embarrassment.
+
+"The palefaces need not be anxious," he said, "the chief will warn his
+friends, the white _franiis_--in their absence the paler faces can use,
+without fear, everything they find here."
+
+And, joining example to precept, the Carib prepared a bed of dry
+leaves, which he covered with skins, and, with the Major-domo's aid,
+carefully laid the wounded man upon it; then he lit a fire, and after,
+for the last time repeating to the fugitives the assurance that they
+had nothing to fear, he went off, gliding like a snake through the tall
+grass.
+
+The Major-domo, who was tolerably well acquainted with the manners of
+the adventurers, with whom he had had some relations, though always
+against his will, for, brave though he was, or boasted of being,
+they inspired him with a superstitious terror--reassured the others
+as to their position, by declaring to them, that hospitality was so
+sacred with the buccaneers, that, if they were their most inveterate
+foes instead of quasi guests, as they had only come on their formal
+invitation, they would have nothing to apprehend from them.
+
+In the meanwhile, thanks to the attention which Doņa Clara had not
+ceased to bestow on him, the poor monk had returned to his senses.
+Although very weak at first, he gradually regained sufficient
+strength to impart to Doņa Clara all that happened to him since their
+separation. This narration, whose conclusion coincided in the minutest
+details with that previously made by the Carib, plunged Doņa Clara
+into a state of stupefaction, which soon changed into horror, when she
+reflected on the terrible dangers that menaced her.
+
+In truth, what help could she expect? Who would dare to protect
+her against her husband, whose high position and omnipotence would
+annihilate every effort she might make to escape from his vengeance.
+
+"Courage," the monk murmured, with a tender commiseration, "courage,
+my daughter, above man there is God. Have confidence in Him; He will
+not abandon you: and if everything fail you, He will come to your
+assistance, and interfere in your favour."
+
+Doņa Clara, in spite of her perfect faith in the power of Providence,
+only replied to this consolation by tears and sobs; she felt herself
+condemned.
+
+Don Sancho was hurriedly walking up and down in the front of the
+ajoupa, twisting his moustache, stamping his foot passionately, and
+revolving in his head the maddest projects.
+
+"Bah," he muttered, at last, "if that demon will not listen to reason,
+I will blow out his brains, and that will settle everything."
+
+And highly pleased at having, after so many vain researches, discovered
+this expeditious mode of saving his sister from the violence, which the
+desire of vengeance would probably suggest to Don Stenio, the young man
+lit a cigarette, and patiently awaited the return of the buccaneers,
+feeling now quite calm and perfectly reassured about the future.
+
+The Major-domo, who was almost indifferent as to what was going on
+around him, and delighted with the hope of the promised thousand
+piastres, had turned the time to a good use. Reflecting that on their
+return, the buccaneers, doubtless, would not be sorry to find their
+breakfast ready, he had placed in front of the fire an iron pot, in
+which he placed an enormous lump of meat, to boil, with a reasonable
+quantity of water; in lieu of bread, he had thrust several ignamas
+under the ashes, and then busied himself with preparing the pimentado,
+that absolutely necessary sauce for every buccaneer meal.
+
+The fugitives had held possession of the boucan for nearly an hour and
+a half, when they heard furious barking, and some twenty dogs rushed
+howling toward them: but a sharp, though still distant whistle recalled
+them, and they went off again as quickly as they had come.
+
+A few minutes later, the Spaniards perceived the two buccaneers; they
+were running up with a surprising speed, although both bore a load
+weighing upwards of a hundredweight, and were in addition embarrassed
+by their weapons and hunting equipment.
+
+Their first care, on arriving at the boucan, was to throw on the ground
+the eight or ten fresh bull hides, till reeking with blood and grease,
+which they brought, and they then advanced toward the strangers, who,
+on their side, had risen to receive them.
+
+The dogs, as if they had understood that they must maintain a strict
+neutrality, were lying on the grass, but kept their flashing eyes fixed
+on the Spaniards, probably ready to spring at their throat upon the
+first signal.
+
+"You are welcome at the ajoupa," Lepoletais said, doffing his hat with
+a politeness that could hardly have been expected on seeing his rough
+appearance. "So long as you like to remain here, you will be regarded
+as our brothers; whatever we possess is yours, dispose of it as you
+think proper, as well as of our arms, should an occasion offer for you
+to demand our help."
+
+"I thank you in the name of my companions, caballero, and accept your
+kind proposal," Doņa Clara answered.
+
+"A woman!" Lepoletais exclaimed, in surprise, "Pardon me, Madam, for
+not recognizing you at once."
+
+"I am, caballero, Doņa Clara de Bejar, to whom, as I was informed, you
+have a letter to deliver."
+
+"In that case doubly welcome, madam; as for the note in question, I
+have not the charge of it, but my comrade."
+
+"Zounds," L'Olonnais exclaimed, who had gone up to the wounded man,
+"Omopoua certainly told us that this poor devil of a monk had been
+almost dismasted, but I did not expect to find him in so pitiable a
+state."
+
+"Well," Lepoletais remarked with a frown, "I am not a very religious
+man, but hang me if I should not hesitate to treat a monk in this way;
+only a pagan is capable of committing such a crime."
+
+Then, with a truly filial attention, which the Spaniards admired, the
+rude adventurer set to work, offering some relief to the wounded man's
+intolerable sufferings, in which he entirely succeeded, owing to a long
+practice in treating wounds of every description, and Fray Arsenio soon
+fell into an invigorating sleep.
+
+During this time L'Olonnais had handed to Doņa Clara the letter
+which Montbarts had entrusted to him for her, and the young lady had
+withdrawn a little for the purpose of reading it.
+
+"Come, come," L'Olonnais said gaily, as he tapped the Major-domo's
+shoulder, "that is what I call a sensible lad, he has thought of the
+substantials; breakfast is ready."
+
+"If that be the case," Lepoletais said, with a significant wink to his
+comrade; "we will eat double tides, for we shall have work before long."
+
+"Shall we not wait the return of the Indian chief?" Don Sancho asked.
+
+"For what purpose?" L'Olonnais said, with a laugh. "Do not trouble
+yourself about him, my gentleman: he is a long way off if he is still
+running. Each of us has his work cut out for him."
+
+"I don't care!" Lepoletais remarked. "You had a deuced fine scent,
+Seņor, in responding to our invitation so quickly!"
+
+"Why so?"
+
+"You will soon know. But now take my advice--recruit your strength by
+eating."
+
+At this moment Doņa Clara rejoined the party. Her demeanour was firmer,
+and her face almost gay.
+
+The table was soon laid--leaves serving for plates. They sat down to
+it, that is to say, they formed a circle on the ground, and bravely
+assailed the provisions.
+
+Don Sancho had resumed all his gaiety. This life appeared to him
+delightful, and he laughed heartily, while eating with a good appetite.
+Doņa Clara herself, in spite of her inward preoccupation, did honour
+to this improvised banquet.
+
+"Up! my darlings," Lepoletais had said to his dogs. "Tally ho! No
+idleness, but go and watch the approaches while we are breakfasting.
+Your share shall be kept."
+
+The dogs had risen with admirable obedience, and turning their backs on
+the boucans, scattered in all directions, and speedily disappeared.
+
+"Yours are first-rate dogs," said Don Sancho.
+
+"You Spaniards are good judges of that," the buccaneer replied,
+mockingly.
+
+The gentleman felt the sting, and did not deem it advisable to dwell
+on the subject. In fact, it was at Saint Domingo that the Spaniards
+inaugurated the frightful custom of training bloodhounds to hunt the
+Indians, and employing them as auxiliaries in their wars.
+
+The breakfast was concluded without any fresh incident worthy of
+remark, and the most perfect cordiality prevailed during the repast.
+
+When the masters had finished, it was the turn of the servants; that
+is to say, L'Olonnais whistled up the dogs, which in an instant were
+collected round him, and gave them their share in equal portions.
+
+The buccaneers, leaving their guests, and at liberty to employ their
+time as they thought proper, were soon actively busied in preparing
+their hides.
+
+Several hours passed in this way. About three in the afternoon a dog
+barked, and then held its tongue.
+
+We have forgotten to state that, after their meal, the dogs returned to
+their posts at a signal from the engagé.
+
+The two buccaneers exchanged a glance.
+
+"One!" said L'Olonnais.
+
+"Two!" Lepoletais almost immediately answered on a second bark, which
+broke out in a different direction.
+
+Ere long, like an electric current, the challenges of the hounds
+succeeded each other with extreme rapidity, raised in all directions.
+
+Still, nothing seemed to justify these warnings given by the sentries.
+No suspicious sound could be heard, and the savannah seemed to be
+plunged into the most perfect solitude.
+
+"I beg your pardon, caballero," Don Sancho said to Lepoletais, who
+continued his task with the same ardor, while laughing merrily with his
+comrade; "but will you permit me to ask you a question?"
+
+"Do so, do so, my good gentleman. It is at times well to ask questions:
+besides, if the question does not suit me, I shall be at liberty not to
+answer it, I suppose?"
+
+"Oh! Of course."
+
+"In that case, speak without fear."
+
+"For some minutes past your dogs seem to have been giving you
+signals--or, at least, I suppose so?"
+
+"You suppose right, caballero. They are really signals."
+
+"And would there be any indiscretion in asking you the meaning of the
+signals?"
+
+"Not the least in the world, seņor, especially as they interest you
+quite as much as us."
+
+"I do not understand you."
+
+"You will soon do so. These signals signify that the savannah is at
+this moment invaded by several Fifties, which are manoeuvring to
+surround us."
+
+"_ĄDiablos!_" the young man exclaimed, with a start of surprise: "And
+you do not feel more affected than that?"
+
+"Why anticipate anxiety? My comrade and I had a pressing job which we
+were obliged to finish. Now that it is done, we are going to turn our
+attention to the seņores."
+
+"But we cannot possibly resist so many enemies?"
+
+"Ah! Ah! Do you really feel inclined for a brush?"
+
+"S'death! My sister and I are incurring quite as much danger as you,
+and we have not a minute to lose in attempting flight."
+
+"Flight?" the buccaneer said, with a grin; "Nonsense! You must be
+laughing, my gentleman: we are enclosed in an impassable circle--or
+what looks so."
+
+"In that case, we are lost."
+
+"How you go on! On the contrary, they are lost."
+
+"They? Why, we are only four against a hundred."
+
+"You are mistaken. There are two hundred; and that makes fifty for each
+of us. Call in the dogs, L'Olonnais; they are now useless. Stay! Look
+there; can you see them?"
+
+And he stretched his arm out straight ahead.
+
+In fact, the long lances of the Spanish soldiers appeared above the
+tall grass. Lepoletais had told the truth. These lances formed a
+circle, which was being more and more contracted round the boucan.
+
+"Come! That is rather neat," the buccaneer added, as he affectionately
+tapped the butt of his long fusil.
+
+"Seņora," he added, "keep by the side of the wounded man."
+
+"Oh! Let me give myself up," she exclaimed, frantically. "It is on my
+account that this terrible danger menaces you."
+
+"Seņora," the buccaneer replied, as he struck his chest with a gesture
+of supreme majesty; "you are under the safeguard of my honour, and I
+swear by Heaven, that no one, so long as I live, shall dare to lay a
+finger upon you! Go to the wounded man."
+
+Involuntarily subdued by the accent with which the buccaneer uttered
+these words, Doņa Clara bowed without replying, and pensively seated
+herself inside the ajoupa, by the side of Fray Arsenio, who was still
+asleep.
+
+"Now, caballero," Lepoletais said to Don Sancho, "if you have never
+been present at a buccaneering expedition, I promise you you are going
+to see some fun, and enjoy yourself."
+
+"Well," the young man replied, recklessly; "I will fight, if I must. It
+is a glorious death for a gentleman, to die sword in hand!"
+
+"Come," said the buccaneer, as he gave him a friendly tap on the
+shoulder; "you are a fine lad. Something can be made of you."
+
+The Fifties still approached, and the circle grew more and more
+contracted.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+THE EXTERMINATOR.
+
+
+For some minutes a mournful silence--a complete calm, which, however,
+was loaded with menace, hung heavily over the savannah.
+
+At a whistle from the engagé, the dogs ranged themselves behind their
+masters, with heads down, lips drawn back to display their sharp teeth,
+and flashing eyes, they awaited the order to rush forward, though
+without giving the slightest bark or growl.
+
+L'Olonnais, leaning on his long fusil, was smoking his pipe quietly,
+while casting sarcastic glances around.
+
+Lepoletais occupied himself with the utmost order in arranging various
+articles which had been deranged during his morning's operations.
+
+The Major-domo, though in his heart he felt very anxious as to the
+result of this apparently so disproportionate combat, was obliged to
+grin and bear it--to use a familiar expression; for he was aware that
+if he fell into the hands of his master, he had no mercy to expect
+from him, after the manner in which he had thwarted his projects, by
+favouring the flight of the Countess.
+
+Don Sancho de Peņaflor, in spite of his natural levity and warlike
+character, was not without anxiety either, for, as an officer of the
+Spanish army, his place was not in the ranks of the buccaneers, but
+with the soldiers who were preparing to attack them.
+
+Doņa Clara, kneeling by the side of the monk, with clasped hands,
+eyes raised to heaven, and face inundated with tears, was fervently
+imploring the protection of the Almighty.
+
+As for Fray Arsenio, he was quietly sleeping.
+
+Such was the picturesque aspect, imposing in its simplicity, offered
+at this moment by the camp of the adventurers. Four men were preparing
+coolly, and as if for the mere fun of the thing, to contend against
+upwards of two hundred regular troops, from whom they knew that they
+had no quarter to expect, but whom their insane resistance would
+probably exasperate, and urge to measures of cruel violence.
+
+In the meanwhile the circle was more and more contracted, and the heads
+of the soldiers were already beginning to appear above the tall grass.
+
+"Ah, ah!" said Lepoletais, rubbing his horney hands together with an
+air of triumph--"I fancy it is time to open the ball; what do you say,
+my boy?"
+
+"Yes, this is the right moment," the engagé replied, as he went to
+fetch a log from the fire.
+
+"Mind not to stir from the spot where you are," Lepoletais recommended
+the two Spaniards: "zounds! pay attention to this, or you will run a
+risk of having your goose cooked," and he laid a stress on the last
+words, with an evidently sarcastic meaning.
+
+The buccaneers, before establishing their bivouac, had pulled up the
+grass for a distance of about thirty paces all around the ajoupa; this
+grass, dried and calcined by the heat of the sun, had been piled up at
+the border of the cleared ground.
+
+The engagé laid down his fusil, walked straight to this grass, set it
+on fire, and then slowly returned to rejoin his companions.
+
+The effect of this manoeuvre was instantaneous, a jet of flame suddenly
+burst out, spread in all directions, and soon a large portion of the
+savannah presented the appearance of a vast furnace.
+
+The buccaneers laughed heartily at what they considered an excellent
+joke.
+
+The Spaniards, taken unawares, uttered cries of terror, and rapidly
+recoiled, pursued by the flame, which constantly spread, and
+continually advanced toward them.
+
+Still, it was evident that the adventurers had no intention of
+burning the unfortunate Spaniards alive; the fire lit by them had not
+sufficient consistency for that; the grass burned and went out again
+with extreme rapidity. Doubtless the sole result that the buccaneers
+had wished to obtain, was to cause a panic terror to their enemies,
+and cast disorder among them; and in this they had been perfectly
+successful.
+
+The soldiers, half roasted by the flames, fled, uttering cries of
+terror before this sea of fire, which seemed incessantly to pursue
+them, without thinking of looking back, or obeying their officers, and
+having but one thought, escaping the terrible danger that menaced them.
+
+While this was going on Lepoletais coolly explained to Don Sancho the
+probable results of the expedient he had employed.
+
+"You see, Seņor," he said, "this blaze is nothing; it is an almost
+inoffensive straw fire; in a few minutes, or half an hour at the
+latest, it will be extinguished. If these men are cowards we shall have
+got rid of them, if not, they will return, and then the affair will be
+serious."
+
+"But, as you recognize the inefficiency of this means, why did you
+employ it? In my opinion it is more injurious than usual to our
+defence."
+
+The buccaneer shook his head several times.
+
+"You do not understand," he said; "I had several motives for acting
+thus. In the first place, however brave you may suppose your countrymen
+to be, they are now demoralised, and it will be very difficult to
+restore them the courage they no longer possess; on the other hand,
+I was not sorry to see clearly around me, and sweep the savannah a
+little, and lastly," he added, with a cunning look, "who told you that
+the fire I lighted was not a signal?"
+
+"A signal?" Don Sancho exclaimed; "Then you have friends near here?"
+
+"Who knows? Seņor, my companions are very active, and are frequently
+met with when least expected."
+
+"I confess that I do not understand a word of what you are saying to
+me."
+
+"Patience, Seņor, patience! You will soon understand, I assure you,
+and will not require any great effort of the intellect to do so.
+L'Olonnais," he added, turning to his comrade, "I think you had better
+go down there now."
+
+"That is true," L'Olonnais replied, as he carelessly threw his fusil
+over his shoulder, "he will be expecting me."
+
+"Take some of the dogs with you."
+
+"What for?"
+
+"To guide you, my lad; it is not easy now to find one's way through the
+ashes, for all the trails are covered."
+
+The engagé called several dogs by their name, and went off without
+replying, followed by a portion of the pack.
+
+"There," Lepoletais continued, pointing to the engagé, who seemed to be
+running, as he went at such a pace, "just look at that fellow, he is a
+fine chap, eh? And how he behaves, though he has not been more than two
+months in America; in three years from this time I predict to you that
+he will be one of our most celebrated adventurers."
+
+"Did you buy him?" Don Sancho asked, though but little interested in
+details which had no importance for him.
+
+"Unluckily, no, he has only been lent to me for a few days; he is
+the engagé of Montbarts the Exterminator: I offered him two hundred
+piastres for him, but he refused to sell him."
+
+"What?" the young man exclaimed--"Montbarts, the celebrated filibuster?"
+
+"The very man; he is a friend of mine."
+
+"In that case he is close at hand?"
+
+"That, Seņor, is one of the things which you will learn shortly."
+
+As the buccaneer had foreseen, the fire went out almost as quickly as
+it blazed up, for want of aliment on this savannah, where only grass
+and a few insignificant shrubs grew.
+
+The Spaniards had sought shelter on the banks of the stream, whose
+barren sand preserved them from contact with the fire. The forests,
+too remote from the scene of the fire, had not caught, although a few
+tongues of flame had played round their edge.
+
+From the boucan it was easy to perceive the Spanish officers striving
+to restore some degree of order among their troops, doubtless for the
+purpose of attempting a new attack, although Lepoletais did not appear
+at all alarmed. Among the officers one was especially remarkable; he
+was on horseback, and was taking immense trouble to form the ranks, and
+the other officers came up in turn to receive his orders.
+
+This officer Don Sancho recognized at the first glance.
+
+"This is what I feared," he muttered; "the Count has placed himself at
+the head of the expedition, and we are lost."
+
+In truth, it was Don Stenio de Bejar, who, on arriving at the hatto at
+daybreak, and learning the flight of the Countess, resolved to command
+the expedition.
+
+The position of the adventurers was critical, reduced as they were
+to three, encamped in the middle of a bare plain, and without
+entrenchments of any description. Still, the confidence of the
+buccaneer did not seem diminished, and it was with an ironical air that
+he examined the preparations the enemy was making against him.
+
+The Spaniards, formed again with great difficulty by the energy of
+their officers, at last started, and proceeded once more toward the
+boucan, while taking the same precautions as before, that is to say,
+being careful to extend their front, so as to form a complete circle,
+and entirely surround the encampment.
+
+But the march of the Fifties was slow and measured; it was only with
+extreme caution that the soldiers ventured on this scarcely cooled
+ground, which might conceal fresh snares.
+
+The Count, pointing to the boucan with his sword, in vain excited his
+troops to press on, and finish with this handful of scoundrels who
+dared to oppose His Majesty's troops; the soldiers would not listen,
+and only advanced with greater caution, for the calmness and apparent
+negligence of their enemies frightened them more than a hostile
+demonstration, and must, in their opinion, be owing to some terrible
+trap laid for them.
+
+At this moment the situation was complicated by a strange episode; a
+canoe crossed the stream, and ran ashore exactly at the spot which the
+Spaniards had quitted only a few minutes previously.
+
+This canoe contained five persons, three adventurers, and two Spaniards.
+
+The adventurers stepped ashore as calmly as if they; were quite alone,
+and pushing the two Spaniards before them, advanced resolutely toward
+the soldiers.
+
+The latter, astonished, confounded at such audacity, watched them
+coming without daring to make a movement to oppose them.
+
+These three adventurers were Montbarts, Michael the Basque, and
+L'Olonnais, and seven or eight dogs followed them. The two Spaniards
+walked unarmed in front of them, being alarmed about their fate, as was
+proved by the pallor of their faces, and the startled glances which
+they threw around them.
+
+The Count, on perceiving the adventurers, uttered a cry of rage, and
+bounded with uplifted sword to meet them.
+
+"Down with the ladrones!" he cried.
+
+The soldiers, ashamed of being held in check by three men, wheeled
+round, and boldly advanced.
+
+The adventurers were surrounded in an instant; but, without displaying
+the slightest surprise at this manoeuvre, they also halted, and
+standing shoulder to shoulder, faced all sides at once.
+
+The soldiers instinctively stopped.
+
+"Death!" the Count cried; "No mercy for the ladrones!"
+
+"Silence," Montbarts replied; "before menacing, listen to the news
+these two couriers bring you."
+
+"Seize these villains!" the Count yelled again. "Kill them like dogs!"
+
+"Nonsense," Montbarts remarked, ironically; "you are mad, my worthy
+sir. Seize us! Why, I defy you to do it."
+
+The three adventurers then emptied their powder flasks into their caps,
+and placed their bullets on the top of it; then, holding in one hand
+their caps thus converted into grenades, and in the other their lighted
+pipes, they waited for the signal.
+
+"Attention, brothers," Montbarts said; "and you scoundrels, make way,
+there, unless you wish us to blow you all up."
+
+And with a firm and measured step the three adventurers advanced toward
+the Spaniards, who were struck with terror, and really opened their
+ranks to make a passage for them.
+
+"Oh!" Montbarts added, with a laugh, "Do not fear that we shall attempt
+to fly; we only want to join our comrades."
+
+Then was witnessed the extraordinary scene of two hundred men timidly
+following at a respectful distance three filibusters, who, while
+walking and smoking to keep their pipes from going out, did not cease
+from jeering them for their cowardice.
+
+Lepoletais was quite wild with delight: as for Don Sancho, he did
+not know whether to feel most astonished at the mad temerity of the
+French, or the cowardice of his countrymen.
+
+The three adventurers thus most easily effected their junction with
+their companions without having been once disturbed by the Spaniards
+during a rather long walk. In spite of the prayers and exhortations of
+the Count to his soldiers, the only thing he obtained from them was,
+that they continued to advance instead of retreating, as they had a
+manifest intention of doing.
+
+But, while the adventurers thus drew the soldiers after them, and
+concentrated their entire attention, a thing was happening which the
+Count perceived when too late, and which began to cause him serious
+alarm as to the result of his expedition.
+
+In the rear of the centre formed by the Spanish soldiers, another
+circle had been drawn up as if by enchantment, but the latter was
+composed of buccaneers and red Caribs, at whose head Omopoua made
+himself remarkable.
+
+The adventurers and Indians had manoeuvred with so much intelligence,
+vivacity, and silence, that the Spaniards were enveloped in a network
+of steel, even before they had suspected the danger that menaced them.
+
+The Count uttered an exclamation of rage, to which the soldiers
+responded by a cry of terror.
+
+The situation was, in fact, extremely critical for the unhappy
+Spaniards, and unless a miracle occurred, it was literally impossible
+for them to escape death.
+
+In fact they had no longer to contend against a few men, resolute, it
+is true, but whom numbers must eventually conquer, even at a sacrifice;
+the filibusters were at least two hundred, and with their allies the
+Caribs, formed an effective strength of five hundred men, all as brave
+lions, and three hundred more than the Spaniards; the latter understood
+that they were lost.
+
+On arriving at the boucan, directly that he had squeezed Lepoletais'
+hand and complimented him on the way in which he had contrived to
+gain time, Montbarts gravely occupied himself with his comrades, in
+restoring the powder and bullets to their respective receptacles, as he
+probably judged that their caps might now be used for their legitimate
+purpose.
+
+While the filibuster was engaged in this occupation, Doņa Clara, pale
+as a corpse, fixed on him burning glances, though she did not venture
+to approach him. At length she took courage, advanced a few paces and
+murmured with an effort in a trembling voice and with clasped hands,--
+
+"I am here, sir."
+
+Montbarts trembled at the sound of this voice, and turned pale; but he
+made an effort over himself and softened the rather hard expression of
+his eye.
+
+"I have come solely on your account, Madam," he replied with a polite
+bow; "I shall have the honour of placing myself at your orders in
+a moment; permit me first to make sure that our interview will be
+uninterrupted."
+
+Doņa Clara hung her head and returned to her seat by the wounded man.
+
+The adventurers had continued to advance and were soon scarce ten paces
+from the Spaniards, whose terror was augmented by this disagreeable
+vicinity.
+
+"Hola, brothers!" Montbarts shouted in a powerful voice; "Halt, if you
+please."
+
+The filibusters instantaneously became motionless.
+
+"And now, you fellows," the Admiral continued, addressing the soldiers;
+"throw down your arms, unless you wish to be immediately shot."
+
+All the lances and swords fell on the ground with a unanimity which
+proved the desire of the soldiers not to have the menace carried into
+effect.
+
+"Surrender your sword, sir," Montbarts said to the Count.
+
+"Never!" the latter exclaimed, as he made his horse curvet, and
+advanced with upraised blade on the adventurer, from whom he was only
+three paces distant.
+
+At the same instant a fusil was discharged and the sword blade, struck
+within an inch of the guard, was shivered; the Count found himself
+disarmed. With a sudden movement Montbarts seized the horse's bridle
+with one hand, and with the other hurled the Count from the saddle and
+laid him prostrate on the ground.
+
+"Patatras!" Lepoletais said laughingly, while reloading his fusil;
+"What a deuced funny idea to try alone to resist five hundred men."
+
+The Count rose quite confused by his fall; a livid pallor covered his
+face, and his features were contracted by anger; all at once his eyes
+fell upon the Countess.
+
+"Ah!" He yelled with the cry of a tiger, as he darted towards her, "At
+least I shall avenge myself."
+
+But Montbarts seized him by the arm and rendered him motionless.
+
+"One word, one gesture, and I blow out your brains like the wild beast
+you are," he said to him.
+
+There was such an accent of menace in the filibuster's words; his
+interference had been so rapid that the Count, involuntarily cowed,
+fell back with his arms folded on his chest and remained apparently
+calm, although a volcano was at work in his heart, and his eyes were
+obstinately fixed on the Countess.
+
+Montbarts gazed for a moment at his enemy with an expression of pity
+and contempt.
+
+"You have desired, sir," he at length said to him ironically; "to try
+your strength with the filibusters and will soon learn the cost; while
+impelled by a mad desire of vengeance and inspired by an imaginary
+jealousy, you were virulently pursuing a lady whose noble heart and
+brilliant virtues you are incapable of appreciating, one half of the
+island of which you are the governor has been torn forever from the
+power of your sovereign, by my companions and myself; Tortuga, Leogane,
+San Juan de Goava, and your hatto del Rincón, suddenly surprised, have
+fallen without a blow."
+
+The Count drew himself up, a feverish flush covered his face, he
+advanced a step and cried in a voice choking with passion,--
+
+"You lie, villain; however great your audacity may be, it is impossible
+that you have succeeded in seizing the places you mention."
+
+Montbarts shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"An insult coming from lips like yours has no effect," he said, "you
+shall soon have the confirmation of what I assert; but enough of this
+subject; I wished to have you in my power in order that you may be
+witness of what I have to say to this lady. Come," he added, addressing
+Doņa Clara; "come, madam, and forgive me for not wishing to see you
+except in the presence of the man you call your husband."
+
+On hearing the appeal, Doņa Clara rose trembling, and tottered forward.
+
+There was a momentary silence; Montbarts, with his head hanging on his
+chest, seemed plunged in bitter thoughts; at length he drew himself up,
+passed his hand over his forehead as if to drive away the mist that
+obscured his reason, turned to Doņa Clara, and said to her in a gentle
+voice,--
+
+"You desired to see me, madam, in order to remind me of a time forever
+past, and to confide a secret to me. This secret I have no right to
+know; the Count de Barmont is dead, dead to everybody, to you before
+all, who did not blush to renounce him, and though you belonged to him
+by legitimate ties, and before all by the more legitimate one of a
+powerful love, cowardly permitted yourself to be chained to another;
+this is a crime, madam, which no forgiveness can efface, either in the
+present or past."
+
+"Pity me, sir," the unhappy lady said, as she writhed beneath this
+curse and burst into tears; "pity me, in the name of my remorse and my
+sufferings!"
+
+"What are you doing, madam?" the Count exclaimed, "Rise at once."
+
+"Silence," Montbarts said in a harsh voice, "Allow this culprit to be
+bowed beneath the weight of her repentance; you, who have been her
+executioner, have less right than anyone else to protect her."
+
+Don Sancho had rushed toward his sister and, roughly repulsing the
+Count, raised her in his arms. Montbarts continued.
+
+"I will only add one word, madam; the Count de Barmont had a child; on
+the day when that child comes to ask his mother's pardon of me, I will
+grant it--perhaps," he added in a faint voice.
+
+"Oh!" the young lady exclaimed with a feverish energy, as she seized
+the hand which the filibuster had not the courage to withdraw from her,
+"Oh sir! You are great and noble, this promise restores me all my hope
+and courage; oh! I swear to you, sir, I will find my child again."
+
+"Enough, madam," Montbarts continued with ill suppressed emotion; "this
+interview has lasted too long; here is your brother, he loves you, and
+will be able to protect you; there is another person whom I regret
+not to see here, for he would have advised and sustained you, in your
+affliction."
+
+"To whom do you allude?" Don Sancho asked.
+
+"To the confessor of your sister."
+
+The young man turned away without answering.
+
+"Why, brother," Lepoletais here observed, "here he is half dead, look
+at his burnt hands."
+
+"Oh!" Montbarts exclaimed, "It is really he, who is the monster that
+has dared--"
+
+"Here he is!" the buccaneer replied, as he tapped the shoulder of the
+Count, who was dumb with stupor and horror, for only at this moment did
+he notice his victim.
+
+Two flashes of flame started from Montbart's eyes.
+
+"Villain," he exclaimed, "what, torture an inoffensive man! Oh,
+Spaniards, race of vipers! What sufficiently horrible punishment could
+I inflict on you!"
+
+All his hearers trembled at this passion so long restrained, which had
+at length burst its bonds and now overflowed with irresistible violence.
+
+"By Heaven!" the filibuster exclaimed in a terrible voice, "It is
+the worse for you, butcher, that you remind me I am Montbarts the
+exterminator. L'Olonnais, prepare the fire under the barbacoas of the
+boucan."
+
+An indescribable terror seized on all the hearers of this order,
+which clearly expressed to what a horrible punishment the Count was
+condemned; Don Stenio himself, in spite of his indomitable pride, felt
+a chill at his heart.
+
+But at this moment, the monk, who had hitherto remained motionless on
+his couch, and apparently insensible to what was going on, rose with
+a painful effort, and leaning on the shoulders of Doņa Clara and her
+brother, tottered forward, and knelt with them to the filibuster.
+
+"Pity," he exclaimed, "pity, in Heaven's name!"
+
+"No," Montbarts replied harshly, "This man is condemned."
+
+"I implore you, brother, be merciful," the monk went on to urge him.
+
+All at once the Count drew two pistols from his doublet, and pointed
+one at Doņa Clara, while he placed the other against his own forehead.
+
+"Of what use is it to implore a tiger," he said, "I die, but by my own
+hands, and I die avenged," and he pulled the trigger.
+
+The double detonation was blended in one.
+
+The Count fell dead on the ground; the second shot badly aimed did not
+strike Doņa Clara, but Fray Arsenio, and laid him dying at the foot of
+his assassin. The last word of the poor monk was, "pity!"
+
+And he expired with his eyes fixed on heaven, as if with a last prayer
+addressed in favour of his murderer.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+At sunset the savannah had returned to its habitual solitude;
+Montbarts, after having the victim and the assassin interred in the
+same grave, doubtless that the just man might protect the culprit in
+the presence of the Most High, set out for Port Margot, at the head of
+the filibusters and Caribs.
+
+Doņa Clara and her brother returned to the hatto del Rincón,
+accompanied by the Spanish soldiers, to whom Montbarts had consented to
+restore their liberty, through consideration for the two young people.
+
+
+
+***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BUCCANEER CHIEF***
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+<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Buccaneer Chief, by Gustave Aimard</title>
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+<body>
+<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Buccaneer Chief, by Gustave Aimard,
+Translated by Lascelles Wraxall</h1>
+<p>This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at <a
+href="http://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a></p>
+<p>Title: The Buccaneer Chief</p>
+<p>       A Romance of the Spanish Main</p>
+<p>Author: Gustave Aimard</p>
+<p>Release Date: December 7, 2013  [eBook #44380]</p>
+<p>Language: English</p>
+<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p>
+<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BUCCANEER CHIEF***</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<h4>E-text prepared by Camille Bernard and Marc D'Hooghe<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.freeliterature.org">http://www.freeliterature.org</a>)<br />
+    from page images generously made available by the<br />
+    Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk">http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk</a>)</h4>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;margin: 0 auto;" cellpadding="10">
+  <tr>
+    <td valign="top">
+      Note:
+    </td>
+    <td>
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford. See
+      <a href="http://purl.ox.ac.uk/uuid/324b5598fbd44321abe105868fb7f75a">
+      http://purl.ox.ac.uk/uuid/324b5598fbd44321abe105868fb7f75a</a>
+    </td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="pg" />
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+
+<h1>THE BUCCANEER CHIEF</h1>
+
+<h3>A Romance of the Spanish Main</h3>
+
+<h3>BY</h3>
+
+<h2>GUSTAVE AIMARD</h2>
+
+<h4>AUTHOR OF SMUGGLER CHIEF, STRONG HAND, ETC.</h4>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+
+<h5>LONDON</h5>
+
+<h5>WARD AND LOCK, 158, FLEET STREET</h5>
+
+<h5>MDCCCLXIV</h5>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h5>CONTENTS.</h5>
+
+<div class="center" style="font-size: 0.8em;">
+<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" summary="">
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">I.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">THE HOSTELRY OF THE COURT OF FRANCE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">II.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_II">A FAMILY SCENE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">III.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_III">THE ARREST</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">IV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_IV">THE ISLE OF SAINTE MARGUERITE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">V.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_V">A BACKWARD GLANCE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">VI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_VI">LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">VII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_VII">DESPAIR</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">VIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">THE PRISONER</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">IX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_IX">MAJOR DE L'OURSIČRE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">X.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_X">THE SEAGULL LUGGER</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XI">FRANCE, FAREWELL!</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XII">THE BEGINNING OF THE ADVENTURE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">THE COUNCIL OF THE FILIBUSTERS</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XIV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">THE SECOND PROPOSAL</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XV">THE SPY</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XVI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">THE SLAVE SALE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XVII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">THE ENLISTMENT</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XVIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">NEVIS</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XIX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">THE EXPEDITION</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XX">THE HATTO</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">THE MAJOR-DOMO'S STORY</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">ACROSS COUNTRY</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">COMPLICATIONS</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXIV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">PORT MARGOT</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">FRAY ARSENIO</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXVI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">THE CONSEQUENCES OF A MEETING</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXVII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COLONY</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXVIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII">THE FLIGHT FROM THE HATTO</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXIX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX">EVENTS ACCUMULATE</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td align="left"></td><td align="right">XXX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXX">THE EXTERMINATOR</a></td></tr>
+</table></div>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE HOSTELRY OF THE COURT OF FRANCE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Although the Seine, from Chanceaux, its fountainhead, to Havre, where
+it falls into the sea, is not more than four hundred miles in length,
+still, in spite of this comparatively limited course, this river is
+one of the most important in the world; for, from the days of Cæsar up
+to the present, it has seen all the great social questions which have
+agitated modern times decided on its banks.</p>
+
+<p>Tourists, artists, and travellers, who go a long distance in search of
+scenery, could not find anything more picturesque or more capriciously
+diversified than the winding banks of this river, which is skirted by
+commercial towns and pretty villages, coquettishly arranged on the
+sides of verdant valleys, or half disappearing in the midst of dense
+clumps of trees.</p>
+
+<p>It is in one of these villages, situated but a few leagues from Paris,
+that our story began, on March 26th, 1641.</p>
+
+<p>This village, whose origin dates back to the earliest period of the
+French Monarchy, was at that time pretty nearly what it is now;
+differing in this respect from all the hamlets that surround it, it has
+remained stationary; on seeing it you might fancy that centuries have
+not passed as far as it is concerned. When the neighbouring hamlets
+became villages, and were finally transformed into large towns, it
+continually decreased, so that its population at the present day scarce
+attains the amount of four hundred inhabitants.</p>
+
+<p>And yet its situation is most happy: traversed by a stream and bordered
+by a river, possessing an historic castle, and forming an important
+station on one of the railway lines, it seemed destined to become an
+industrial centre, the more so because its inhabitants are industrious
+and intelligent.</p>
+
+<p>But there is a spell upon the place. The great landowners who have
+succeeded each other in the country, and who mostly grew rich in the
+political commotions, or by risky speculations, have tacitly agreed
+to impede in every possible way the industrial aspirations of the
+population&mdash;have ever egotistically sacrificed public interest to their
+private advantage.</p>
+
+<p>Thus the historic castle to which we alluded has fallen into the hands
+of a man who, sprung from nothing, and feeling himself stifled within
+its walls, allows them to crumble away before the effects of time, and,
+to save the expense of a gardener, sows oats in the majestic alleys
+of a park, designed by Le Nôtre, whose grand appearance strikes with
+admiration the traveller, who sees it at a distance as he is borne past
+in the train.</p>
+
+<p>The same thing is going on in the whole of this unhappy hamlet, which
+is condemned to die of inanition in the midst of the abundance of its
+neighbours.</p>
+
+<p>This village was composed at the period of our narrative of a single
+long narrow street, which ran down from the top of a scarped hill,
+crossed a small rivulet, and terminated only a few yards from the Seine.</p>
+
+<p>This street, through its entire length, was bordered by low, ugly
+tenements, pressing closely together, as if for mutual support, and
+mostly serving as pothouses for the waggoners and other people who at
+this period, when the great network of the French royal roads had not
+yet been made, continually passed through this village, and sought
+shelter there for the night.</p>
+
+<p>The top of the street was occupied by a very wealthy, religious
+community, next to which stood a large building hidden at the end of
+a spacious garden, and serving as hostelry for the wealthy personages
+whom their business or pleasure brought to this place, which was
+surrounded for ten leagues round by sumptuous seigneurial mansions.</p>
+
+<p>There was nothing externally to cause this building to be recognized as
+an inn; a low gateway gave access to the garden, and it was not till
+the traveller had gone along the whole of the latter that he found
+himself in front of the house.</p>
+
+<p>It had, however, another entrance, looking out on a road but little
+frequented at the time, and which was employed by horses and coaches,
+when the traveller had succeeded in obtaining the landlord's leave to
+put up there.</p>
+
+<p>Although this house, as we said, was a hostelry, its owner did not
+admit everybody who proposed to lodge there; on the contrary, he was
+very difficult in the choice of his guests, asserting, rightly or
+wrongly, that a hostelry, which had been honoured on several occasions
+by the presence of the King and the Cardinal Minister, must not serve
+as an asylum either for vagabonds or nightbirds.</p>
+
+<p>In order to justify the right he claimed, the landlord had, a few
+months previously, had the arms of France daubed on a metal plate by
+a strolling painter, and inscribed under it in golden letters&mdash;"<i>The
+Court of France.</i>" This sign he put up over his door.</p>
+
+<p>This inn enjoyed a great reputation, not only in the country, but in
+all the surrounding provinces, and even as far as Paris&mdash;a reputation,
+we are bound to add, well deserved, for if mine host was particular in
+the choice of his lodgers, when the latter had succeeded in gaining
+admission he treated them, men and beasts, with a peculiar care, that
+had something paternal about it.</p>
+
+<p>Although it was getting on for the end of March, and, according to the
+almanac, 'Spring had begun some days previously,' the cold was nipping,
+the rime-laden trees stood out sadly against the leaden sky, and a
+thick, hardened layer of snow covered the ground for some depth.</p>
+
+<p>Although it was about ten o'clock at night, it was light, and the moon,
+floating in russet clouds, profusely shed her sickly beams, which
+rendered it almost as light as day.</p>
+
+<p>All were asleep in the village, or, at least, seemed to be so; the
+<i>Court of France</i> alone emitted a light through its ground floor barred
+windows, which proved that somebody was still up there.</p>
+
+<p>Still, the inn did not offer shelter to any traveller.</p>
+
+<p>All those who during the day, and since nightfall, had presented
+themselves, had been mercilessly turned away by the landlord, a stout
+man, with a rubicund face, intelligent features, and a crafty smile,
+who was walking at this moment with an air of preoccupation up and
+down his immense kitchen, every now and then casting an absent glance
+at the preparations for supper, one portion of which was roasting
+before a colossal fireplace, whilst the rest was being got ready by a
+master cook and several assistants.</p>
+
+<p>A middle-aged, short, plump woman, suddenly burst into the kitchen, and
+addressed the landlord, who had turned round at the noise.</p>
+
+<p>"Is it true," she asked, "Master Pivois, that you have ordered the dais
+room to be got ready, as Mariette declares?"</p>
+
+<p>Master Pivois drew himself up.</p>
+
+<p>"What did Mariette tell you?" he enquired, sternly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, she told me to prepare the best bedroom."</p>
+
+<p>"Which is the best bedroom, Dame Tiphaine?"</p>
+
+<p>"The dais room, master, since it is the one in which His Majesty&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"In that case," mine host interrupted her, in a peremptory tone,
+"prepare the dais room."</p>
+
+<p>"Still, master," Dame Tiphaine ventured&mdash;who possessed a certain amount
+of credit in the house, in the first place, as legitimate spouse of the
+landlord himself, and then, again, through sundry very marked traits of
+character&mdash;"with all the respect I owe you, it seems to me&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"With all the respect I owe you," he exclaimed, stamping his foot
+passionately, "you're a fool, my good creature, obey my orders, and do
+not trouble me further!"</p>
+
+<p>Dame Tiphaine comprehended that her lord and master was not in a
+humour that evening for being contradicted. Like a prudent woman, she
+bowed her head and withdrew, reserving to herself the right of taking
+a startling revenge at a future date for the sharp reprimand she had
+received.</p>
+
+<p>Doubtless satisfied with his display of authority, Master Pivois, after
+taking a triumphant glance at his subordinates, who were surprised at
+this unusual act of vigour, though they did not dare show it, walked
+toward a door that led into the garden; but at the moment when he laid
+his hand on the key, this door, vigorously thrust from the outside,
+opened right in the face of the startled landlord, who tottered back to
+the middle of the room, and a man entered the kitchen.</p>
+
+<p>"At last!" the stranger said, joyously, as he threw his plumed hat on
+a table and took off his cloak. "By heaven! I almost found myself in a
+desert."</p>
+
+<p>And before mine host, who was growing more and more astounded at
+his cool behaviour, had the time to oppose it, he took a chair, and
+comfortably installed himself in the chimney corner.</p>
+
+<p>The newcomer appeared to be not more than twenty-five years of age;
+long black curls fell in disorder on his shoulders; his marked features
+were noble and intelligent; his black eyes, full of fire, announced
+courage, and the habit of commanding; his countenance had a certain
+stamp of grandeur, tempered by the cordial smile that played round
+his wide mouth, full of brilliantly white teeth; his red, and rather
+swollen lips, were adorned, according to the fashion of the day, with
+a most carefully waxed moustache, while his square chin, indicative of
+obstinacy, was covered by a long royale.</p>
+
+<p>His dress, while not rich, was, however, becoming&mdash;cut with taste,
+and affected a certain military air, which was rendered more marked
+by the brace of pistols the stranger carried in his belt, and the long
+iron-handled sword that hung at his side.</p>
+
+<p>Altogether, his lofty stature, and muscular, well-developed person,
+and the air of audacity spread all over him, rendered him one of those
+men, the breed of whom was so common at the period, and who at the
+first glance contrived to claim from people with whom accident brought
+them in contact that respect to which, whether justly or unjustly, they
+believed they had a right.</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile, the landlord, who had slightly recovered from the
+emotion and surprise he had experienced at what he almost regarded
+as a violation of his domicile, advanced a few steps toward the
+stranger, and while bowing lower than he had intended, and doffing his
+cotton nightcap before the flashing glance the other bent on him, he
+stammered, in anything but a steady voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"My lord&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>But the latter interrupted him without ceremony.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you the landlord?" he asked, sharply.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," Master Pivois grunted, as he drew himself up, feeling quite
+constrained at answering when he was preparing to question.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," the stranger continued; "look after my horse, which I left
+I know not where in your garden; have him put in the stable, and tell
+the ostler to wash his withers with a little vinegar and water, for I
+am afraid he has hurt himself a little."</p>
+
+<p>These words were uttered so carelessly, that the landlord stood utterly
+confounded, unable to utter a syllable.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," the stranger continued, at the expiration of a moment, with
+a slight frown, "what are you doing here, ass, instead of obeying my
+orders?"</p>
+
+<p>Master Pivois, completely subdued, turned on his heels, and left the
+room, tottering like a drunken man.</p>
+
+<p>The stranger looked after him with a smile, and then turned to the
+waiting-men, who were whispering together, and taking side-glances at
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"Come and wait on me," he said; "place a table here before me near the
+fire, and bring me some supper&mdash;make haste, s'death, or I shall die of
+hunger!"</p>
+
+<p>The waiting-men, delighted in their hearts at playing their master
+a trick, did not let the order be repeated; in a second a table was
+brought up, the cloth laid, and, on re-entering the room, the landlord
+found the stranger in the act of carving a magnificent partridge.</p>
+
+<p>Master Pivois assumed at the sight all the colours of the rainbow&mdash;at
+first pale, he turned so red that a fit of apoplexy might be
+apprehended, so vivid was his emotion.</p>
+
+<p>"By Heaven," he exclaimed, stamping his foot angrily, "that is too
+much."</p>
+
+<p>"What?" the stranger asked, as he raised his head and wiped his
+moustache; "What is the matter with you, my good man?"</p>
+
+<p>"Matter, indeed!" mine host growled.</p>
+
+<p>"By the way, is my horse in the stable?"</p>
+
+<p>"Your horse, your horse," the other grumbled, "as if that is troubling
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it then, if you please, master mine?" the stranger asked, as
+he poured out a bumper which he conscientiously drained to the last
+drop. "Ah," he said, "it is Juranįon; I recognise it."</p>
+
+<p>This indifference and this coolness raised the landlord's anger to the
+highest pitch, and caused him to forget all prudence.</p>
+
+<p>"Cogswounds," he said, boldly seizing the bottle, "it is a strange
+piece of impudence thus to enter an honest house without the owner's
+permission; decamp at once, my fine gentleman, unless you wish harm
+to befall you, and seek a lodging elsewhere, for, as far as I am
+concerned, I cannot and will not give you one."</p>
+
+<p>The stranger had not moved a feature during this harangue; he had
+listened to Master Pivois without displaying the slightest impatience:
+when the landlord at length held his tongue, he threw himself back in
+his chair, and looked him fixedly in the face.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen to me in your turn, master," he said to him, "and engrave these
+words deeply on your narrow brain: this house is an inn, is it not?
+Hence it must be open without hesitation to every stranger who comes
+here for food and lodging with money in his pocket. I am aware that you
+claim the right of only receiving such persons as you think proper; if
+there are people who put up with that, it is their business, but for my
+part, I do not intend to do so. I feel comfortable here, so I remain,
+and shall remain as long as I think proper; I do not prevent you from
+swindling me, for that is your duty as a landlord, and I have no right
+to object; but, if I am not served politely and dexterously&mdash;if you do
+not give me a proper bedroom to spend the night in&mdash;in a word, if you
+do not perform the duties of hospitality toward me in the way I expect,
+I promise to pull down your signboard, and hang you up in its place,
+on the slightest infraction you are guilty of. And now I suppose you
+understand me?" he added, squeezing the other's hand so hard that the
+poor fellow uttered a yell of agony, and went tottering against the
+kitchen wall: "Serve me, then, and let us have no more argument, for
+you would not get the best of the quarrel if you picked one with me."</p>
+
+<p>And without paying further attention to the landlord, the traveller
+continued his interrupted supper.</p>
+
+<p>It was all over with the landlord's attempted resistance; he felt
+himself vanquished, and did not attempt a struggle which had now become
+impossible. Confused and humiliated, he only thought of satisfying this
+strange guest who had installed himself by main force in the house.</p>
+
+<p>The traveller did not in any way abuse his victory; satisfied with
+having obtained the result he desired, he did not take the slightest
+liberty.</p>
+
+<p>The result was that gradually, from one concession to another&mdash;the one
+offering, the other not refusing&mdash;they became on the best possible
+terms; and toward the end of the supper, mine host and the traveller
+found themselves, without knowing how, the most affectionate friends in
+the world.</p>
+
+<p>They were talking together. First of the rain and fine weather, the
+dearness of provisions, the king's illness, and that of his Eminence
+the Cardinal; then, growing gradually bolder, Master Pivois poured out
+a huge bumper of wine for his improvised guest, and collected all his
+courage.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know, my good gentleman," he said to him suddenly, shaking his
+head with an air of contrition, "that you are fearfully in my way?"</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff!" the stranger answered, as he tossed off the contents of his
+glass, and shrugged his shoulders, "Are we coming back to the old
+story of just now? I thought that settled long ago."</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! I would it were so for everybody as it is for me."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pray do not get into a passion, sir," the landlord continued timidly;
+"I have not the slightest intention of insulting you."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case explain yourself in the Fiend's name, my master, and come
+frankly to the point; I do not understand what others beside yourself
+have to do in the matter."</p>
+
+<p>"That is just the difficulty," said Master Pivois, scratching his head.</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, zounds! I am not an ogre; what is it that causes you such
+anxiety?"</p>
+
+<p>The landlord saw that he must out with it, and fear giving him courage,
+he bravely made up his mind.</p>
+
+<p>"Monseigneur," he said, honestly, "believe me that I am too much the
+man of the world to venture to act with rudeness to a gentleman of your
+importance&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Enough of that," the stranger interrupted, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"But&mdash;" the host continued.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! There is a <i>but</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! Monseigneur, there always is one, and today a bigger one than
+ever."</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it all, you terrify me, master," the stranger remarked, with a
+laugh; "tell me quickly, I beg of you, what this terrible but is."</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! Monseigneur, it is this: my entire hostelry was engaged a week
+ago by a party of gentlemen; I expect them to arrive in an hour&mdash;half
+an hour, perhaps, and&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"And?" the stranger asked, in an enquiring tone, which caused the host
+to shudder.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Monseigneur," he resumed in a choking voice, "these gentlemen
+insist on having the hostelry to themselves, and made me swear not to
+receive any other traveller but themselves, and paid me to that effect."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," said the stranger, with an air of indifference.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you say; very good? Monseigneur," Master Pivois exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it! What else would you have me say? You have strictly fulfilled
+your engagement, and no one has the right to reproach you."</p>
+
+<p>"How so, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Unless you have someone concealed here," the stranger answered,
+imperturbably, "which, I confess, would not be at all honourable on
+your part."</p>
+
+<p>"I have nobody."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"But you, monseigneur?" he hazarded timidly.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I," the stranger replied laughingly, "that is another affair; let
+us make a distinction, if you please, master; you did not receive me,
+far from it; I pressed my company on you, as I think you will allow."</p>
+
+<p>"It is only too true."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you regret it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Far from it, monseigneur," he exclaimed eagerly, for he was not at all
+desirous of re-arousing the slumbering wrath of the irascible stranger;
+"I am only stating a fact."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, I see with pleasure, Master Pivois, that you are a very
+serious man; you are stating a fact, you say?"</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! yes," the luckless host sighed.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; now follow my reasoning closely."</p>
+
+<p>"I am doing so."</p>
+
+<p>"When these gentlemen arrive, which according to your statement, will
+be soon, you will only have one thing to do."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, monseigneur?"</p>
+
+<p>"Tell them exactly what has passed between us. If I am not greatly
+mistaken this honest explanation will satisfy them; if it be
+otherwise&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, if it be so, what am I to do, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Refer them to me, Master Pivois, and I will undertake in my turn to
+convince them; gentlemen of good birth perfectly understand each other."</p>
+
+<p>"Still, monseigneur&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Not a word more on this subject, I must request; but stay," he added,
+and listened, "I believe your company are arriving."</p>
+
+<p>And he carelessly threw himself back in his chair.</p>
+
+<p>Outside, the trampling of horses on the hardened snow could be
+distinctly heard, and then several blows were dealt on the door.</p>
+
+<p>"It is they," the host muttered.</p>
+
+<p>"A further reason not to keep them waiting; go and open the door,
+master, for it is very cold outside."</p>
+
+<p>The landlord hesitated for a moment and then left the room without
+replying.</p>
+
+<p>The stranger carefully folded himself in his mantle, pulled the brim of
+his beaver over his eyes, and awaited the entrance of the newcomers,
+while affecting an air of indifference.</p>
+
+<p>The waiting-men, who had sought shelter in the most remote corner of
+the room, were trembling in the prevision of a disturbance.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>A FAMILY SCENE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>In the meanwhile the new arrivals were making a great noise in the
+road, and seemed to be growing impatient at the delay in letting them
+into the hostelry.</p>
+
+<p>Master Pivois at length decided to open to them, though he was
+suffering from a secret apprehension as to the consequences which the
+presence of a stranger in the house might have for him.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as a stable-lad had by his orders, drawn back the bolts,
+and opened the carriage-gates, several horsemen entered the yard,
+accompanied by a coach drawn by four horses.</p>
+
+<p>By the light of the lanthorn held by his lad the landlord perceived
+that the travellers were seven in number; three masters, three
+servants, and the coachman on the box. All were wrapped up in thick
+cloaks, and armed to the teeth.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as the coach had entered the yard, the horsemen dismounted;
+one of them, who appeared to exercise a certain authority over his
+companions, walked up to the landlord, while the others brought the
+coach up to the main entrance of the house, and closed the gates.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, master," said the traveller to whom we allude, with a very
+marked foreign accent, although he expressed himself very purely in
+French; "have my orders been punctually executed?"</p>
+
+<p>At this question, which was very embarrassing to him, Master Pivois
+scratched his head, and then replied like the cunning peasant he was&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"As far as possibly, yes, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, scoundrel?" the traveller resumed roughly; "Your
+instructions were precise enough."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lord," the landlord said humbly; "and I will even add that I
+was liberally paid beforehand."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, what have you to say?"</p>
+
+<p>"That I have done the best I could," Master Pivois replied in growing
+confusion.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! I suppose you mean that you have someone in the house?"</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! yes, my lord," the landlord answered, hanging his head.</p>
+
+<p>The traveller stamped his foot passionately.</p>
+
+<p>"S'blood!" he exclaimed; then, at once resuming an apparent calmness,
+he continued, "Who are the persons?"</p>
+
+<p>"There is only one."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" said the traveller, with satisfaction, "If there be only one,
+nothing is more easy than to dislodge him."</p>
+
+<p>"I fear not," the landlord ventured timidly, "for this traveller, who
+is a stranger to me, I swear, looks to me like a rude gentleman, and
+not at all inclined to surrender his place."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, well, I will take it on myself," the traveller remarked
+carelessly, "where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"There, in the kitchen, my lord, warming himself at the fire."</p>
+
+<p>"That will do; is the room ready?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>"Rejoin those gentlemen, and show them the way yourself; none of your
+people must know what takes place here."</p>
+
+<p>The landlord, delighted at having got off so cheaply, bowed
+respectfully, and hastily retired in the direction of the garden;
+as for the traveller, after exchanging a few whispered words with a
+footman, who remained with him, he pulled his hat over his eyes, opened
+the door, and boldly entered the kitchen.</p>
+
+<p>It was deserted: the stranger had disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>The traveller looked anxiously around him; the waiting men, probably
+in obedience to orders previously received from their master, had
+withdrawn to their attics.</p>
+
+<p>After a few seconds' hesitation, the traveller returned to the garden.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," the landlord asked, "have you seen him, my lord?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," he replied, "but it is of no consequence; not a word about him to
+the persons who accompany me; he has doubtless left, but if that be not
+the case, be careful that he does not approach the apartments you have
+reserved for us."</p>
+
+<p>"Hum," the landlord muttered to himself, "all this is not clear;" and
+he withdrew very pensively.</p>
+
+<p>Truth to tell, the worthy man was frightened. His new customers had
+unpleasant faces, and a rough manner, which reassured him but slightly;
+and then again he fancied he had seen alarming shadows gliding about
+among the trees in his garden, a fact which he had carefully avoided
+verifying, but which heightened his secret apprehensions.</p>
+
+<p>Dame Tiphaine, torch in hand, was waiting at the house door, in
+readiness to light the travellers, and conduct them to their
+apartments. When the coach had been turned and stopped, one of the
+travellers went up to it, opened the door, and assisted a lady in
+getting out.</p>
+
+<p>This lady, who was magnificently dressed, appeared to be suffering,
+and she walked with difficulty. Still, in spite of her weakness, she
+declined the arm of one of the travellers offered her in support, and
+approached Dame Tiphaine, who, compassionate like all women, hastened
+to offer her the service she seemed to request of her, and helped her
+to ascend the rather steep staircase that led to the dais room.</p>
+
+<p>The travellers left the driver and a lackey to guard the coach, which
+remained horsed, and silently followed the sick lady.</p>
+
+<p>The dais room, the finest in the inn, was spacious and furnished with
+a certain amount of luxury; a large fire crackled on the hearth, and
+several candles, placed on the furniture, diffused a rather bright
+light.</p>
+
+<p>A door half hidden by tapestry communicated with a bedroom, that had a
+door opening on the passage, for the convenience of the attendants.</p>
+
+<p>When the lady had entered the room, she sank into a chair, and thanked
+the landlady with a bow.</p>
+
+<p>The latter discreetly withdrew, astonished and almost terrified by the
+gloomy faces which surrounded her.</p>
+
+<p>"Holy Virgin!" she said to Master Pivois, whom she found walking in
+great anxiety along the passage, "What's going to happen here? These
+men frighten me; that poor lady is all of a tremble, and the little I
+saw of her face behind her mask, is as white as a sheet."</p>
+
+<p>"Alas!" Master Pivois said with a sigh, "I am as frightened as you, my
+dear, but we can do nothing; they are too great people for us&mdash;friends
+of his Eminence. They would crush us without pity; we have only one
+thing to do, and that is to retire to our room, as we received orders
+to do, and to keep quiet till our services are required; the house is
+theirs, at this moment they are the masters."</p>
+
+<p>The landlord and his wife went into their room, and not satisfied with
+double locking their door, barricaded it with everything that came to
+hand.</p>
+
+<p>As Master Pivois had said to his wife, the travellers were certainly
+masters of the inn, or at least believed themselves so.</p>
+
+<p>The stranger, while feigning the deepest indifference, had watched the
+landlord's every movement: as soon as the latter left the kitchen to
+open the door for the newcomers, he rose, threw a purse of gold to the
+scullions, while putting his finger on his lips to recommend silence to
+them, and carefully wrapping himself in his mantle, left the kitchen.</p>
+
+<p>The scullions, with the intelligence characteristic of the class,
+comprehended that this action of the stranger concealed some plans in
+the execution of which it was to their interest not to interfere; they
+divided the money so generously given them, and remembering the orders
+they had received from their master, they hastily decamped, and went
+off to hide themselves.</p>
+
+<p>The stranger, while the landlord was receiving the travellers, had
+proceeded to the thickest part of the garden.</p>
+
+<p>On reaching the little gate to which we have referred, he whistled
+gently.</p>
+
+<p>Almost immediately two men seemed to rise from the midst of the
+darkness, and came up to him.</p>
+
+<p>Each of these men had a long rapier at his side, pistols in his girdle,
+and a musketoon in his hand.</p>
+
+<p>"What is there new?" the stranger asked; "Have you seen anything,
+Michael?"</p>
+
+<p>"Captain," the man answered, to whom the question was addressed, "I
+have seen nothing, but still I fear a trap."</p>
+
+<p>"A trap?" the stranger repeated.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," Michael continued, "Bowline has taken bearings of several
+ill-looking fellows who seem desirous of boarding us."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff! You are mad, Michael. You have seen the travellers who have
+just arrived at the inn."</p>
+
+<p>"No, captain; on the contrary, they exactly resemble the fellows who
+have been chasing us ever since the day before yesterday, regular
+Cardinal's bloodhounds, I'll wager."</p>
+
+<p>The stranger appeared to reflect. "Are they far off?" he at length
+asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, Bowline, my boy," said Michael, turning to his comrade, "and
+don't shiver your sails, the captain is hailing you."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then, Captain," said Bowline, a sturdy Breton, with a crafty
+look, "I sighted them over the starboard quarter at about four o'clock;
+I spread all my canvas to distance them, and I fancy I have left them
+four or five cables length in the rear."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case we have about an hour before us?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, about, Captain," Bowline replied.</p>
+
+<p>"That is more than we want; listen, my lads, and swear on your honour
+as sailors to obey me."</p>
+
+<p>"You may be quite sure we shan't fail, Captain," they answered.</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon on you."</p>
+
+<p>"Shiver my topsails, we know that," Michael replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Whatever may happen to me," the stranger continued, "leave me to act
+alone, unless I give you express orders to come to my assistance. If
+the Cardinal's bloodhounds were to arrive while we are up aloft, you
+will bolt."</p>
+
+<p>"We bolt!" the two sailors exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"You must, lads! Who would deliver me if we were all three prisoners?"
+the stranger asked.</p>
+
+<p>"That's true," Michael answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Well then, that's settled, is it not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Captain."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! By the way, if I am arrested you will want money to liberate me;
+take this."</p>
+
+<p>He placed in their hands a heavy purse, which the sailors accepted
+without any remark.</p>
+
+<p>"Now follow me, and keep your weather eye open, my lads."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, Captain," Michael answered, "we are on watch."</p>
+
+<p>The stranger then proceeded towards the house, closely followed by
+the two sailors. He reached the passage, at the end of which the
+travellers' room was, at the moment when Master Pivois and his wife
+were locking themselves in their bedroom.</p>
+
+<p>The coach, guarded by the driver and a footman, was still standing in
+front of the principal entrance, but the three men passed unnoticed.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as the landlady had left the room, the traveller who appeared
+to have a certain degree of authority over his companions, opened the
+bedroom door, doubtless to make certain there was no spy listening;
+then he took a chair, sat down by the fire, and made a sign to his
+companions to imitate him; the two lackeys alone remained standing near
+the door, with their hands resting on the muzzles of their carbines,
+butts of which were on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>For some moments there was a funereal silence in this room, although
+six persons were assembled in it.</p>
+
+<p>At length the traveller made up his mind to speak, and addressed the
+young lady, who was reclining in her chair, with her head bent on her
+breast and pendant arms.</p>
+
+<p>"My daughter," he said, in a grave voice, and speaking in Spanish, "the
+moment has arrived for a clear and distinct explanation between us,
+for we have only four leagues to travel ere we reach the end of our
+long journey. I intend to remain twenty-four hours in this hostelry, in
+order to give you time to repair your strength, and allow you to appear
+in a proper state before the man for whom I destine you."</p>
+
+<p>The young lady only replied to this dry address by a hollow groan.</p>
+
+<p>Her father continued, without appearing to notice the utter state of
+prostration in which she was&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Remember, my daughter, that if, on the entreaty of your brothers here
+present, I consented to pardon the fault you have committed, it is on
+the express condition that you will obey my orders without hesitation,
+and do all I wish."</p>
+
+<p>"My child?" she murmured, in a voice choked by grief&mdash;"What have you
+done with my child?"</p>
+
+<p>The traveller frowned, and a livid pallor covered his face; but he
+immediately recovered himself.</p>
+
+<p>"That question again, unhappy girl?" he said, in a gloomy voice;
+"Do not trifle with my wrath by reminding me of your crime, and the
+dishonour of my house."</p>
+
+<p>At these words the girl drew herself up suddenly, and with a hurried
+gesture pulled off the velvet mask that covered her face.</p>
+
+<p>"I am not guilty," she said, in a haughty voice, and looking her father
+in the face; "and you are perfectly aware of it, for it was you who
+introduced the Count de Barmont to me. You encouraged our love, and it
+was by your orders that we were secretly married. You dare not assert
+the contrary."</p>
+
+<p>"Silence, wretch!" the traveller exclaimed, and rose passionately.</p>
+
+<p>"Father!" the two gentlemen, who had hitherto remained motionless and
+as if strangers to this stormy interview, exclaimed, as they threw
+themselves before him.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," he said, as he resumed his seat, "I will restrain myself: I
+will only ask you one further question, Doņa Clara&mdash;will you obey me?"</p>
+
+<p>She hesitated for a moment, and then appeared to form a supreme
+resolution.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen to me, my father," she replied, in a hurried though firm voice;
+"you told me yourself that the moment for an explanation between us
+had arrived; very well, let us have this explanation. I, too, am your
+daughter, and jealous of the honour of our house; that is why I insist
+on your answering me without equivocation or deception."</p>
+
+<p>While speaking thus, the young lady, who was only sustained by the
+factitious strength sorrow imparted to her, for she was frail and
+delicate, was supremely beautiful; with her body bent back, her head
+haughtily raised, her long and silky black hair falling in disorder on
+her shoulders, and contrasting with the marble pallor of her face; with
+her large eyes, inflamed by fever and inundated with tears, that slowly
+coursed down her cheeks, and with her bosom heaving from the emotion
+that held mastery over her&mdash;there was about her whole person something
+deathly, which seemed no longer to belong to the earth.</p>
+
+<p>Her father felt involuntarily affected, in spite of his ferocious
+pride; and it was with a less rough voice he replied&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I am listening to you."</p>
+
+<p>"Father," she resumed, leaning her hand on the back of her chair in
+order to support herself, "I told you that I am not guilty, and I
+repeat that the Count de Barmont and myself were secretly united in
+the church of la Merced at Cadiz, and were so by your orders. As you
+know it, I will not dwell further on this point; my child is, therefore
+legitimate, and I have a right to be proud of it. How is it, then, that
+you, the Duke de Peņaflor, belonging to the highest class in Spain,
+not satisfied with tearing me on the very day of marriage from the
+husband yourself selected, and depriving me of my infant on the day
+of its birth, accused me of committing a horrible crime, and insisted
+on enchaining me to another husband, while my first is still living?
+Answer me, my father, so that I may know the nature of that honour
+about which you so often speak to me, and what is the motive that
+renders you so cruel to an unfortunate girl, who owes her life to you,
+and who, ever since she has been in this world, has only felt love and
+respect for you."</p>
+
+<p>"This is too much, unnatural daughter!" the Duke shouted, as he rose
+wrathfully&mdash;"And as you are not afraid of braving me so unworthily&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>But he suddenly checked himself, and stood motionless, trembling with
+fury and horror; the bedroom door had suddenly opened, and a man
+appeared in it, upright, haughty, with flashing eye, and hand on his
+sword hilt.</p>
+
+<p>"Ludovic, at last!" the young lady shrieked, as she rushed towards him.</p>
+
+<p>But her brothers caught her by the arms, and constrained her to sit
+down again.</p>
+
+<p>"The Count de Barmont!" the Duke muttered.</p>
+
+<p>"Myself, my lord Duke de Peņaflor," the stranger replied, with
+exquisite politeness&mdash;"you did not expect me, it appears to me?"</p>
+
+<p>And, walking a few paces into the room, while the two sailors who had
+followed him guarded the door, he proudly put his hat on again, and
+folded his arms.</p>
+
+<p>"What is going on here?" he asked, in a haughty voice; "And who dares
+to use violence to the Countess de Barmont?"</p>
+
+<p>"The Countess de Barmont?" the Duke repeated, contemptuously.</p>
+
+<p>"It is true," the other remarked, ironically; "I forget that you expect
+at any moment a dispensation from the Court of Home, which will declare
+my marriage null and void, and allow you to give your daughter to the
+man whose credit has caused you to be nominated Viceroy of New Spain."</p>
+
+<p>"Sir!" the Duke exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"What, do you pretend I am in error? No, no, my lord Duke, my spies are
+as good as yours&mdash;I am well served, believe me: thank heaven I have
+arrived in time to prevent it. Make way there!" he said, repulsing by a
+gesture the two gentlemen who opposed his passage&mdash;"I am your husband,
+madam; follow me, I shall be able to protect you."</p>
+
+<p>The two young men, leaving their sister, who was in a semi-fainting
+state, rushed on the Count, and both buffeted him in the face with
+their gloves, while drawing their swords.</p>
+
+<p>The Count turned fearfully pale at this cruel insult; he uttered a wild
+beast yell, and unsheathed.</p>
+
+<p>The valets, held in check by the two sailors, had not made a movement.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke rushed between the three men, who were ready for the assault.</p>
+
+<p>"Count," he said, coolly, to the younger of his sons, "leave to your
+brother the duty of chastising this man."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, father," the elder answered, as he fell on guard, while his
+younger brother lowered the point of his sword, and fell back a pace.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara was lying motionless on the floor.</p>
+
+<p>At the first attack the two enemies engaged their swords up to their
+guard, and then, as if of common accord, each retreated a step.</p>
+
+<p>There was something sinister in the appearance of this inn room at the
+moment.</p>
+
+<p>This woman, who lay writhing on the floor, suffering from a horrible
+nervous crisis, and no one dreaming of succouring her.</p>
+
+<p>This old man, with frowning brow, and features contracted by pain,
+witnessing with apparent stoicism this duel between his elder son and
+his son-in-law, while his younger son was biting his lips with fury
+because he could not assist his brother; these sailors, with pistols at
+the breasts of the lackeys, who were palsied with terror; and in the
+centre of the room, scarce lighted by a few smoking candles, these two
+men, sword in hand, watching like two tigers the moment to slay each
+other.</p>
+
+<p>The combat was not long; too great a hatred animated the two
+adversaries for them to lose time in feeling each other's strength.
+The Duke's son, more impatient than the Count, made thrust on thrust,
+which the other had great difficulty in parrying; at length, the young
+man feeling himself too deeply engaged, tried to make a second backward
+step, but his foot slipped on the boards, and he involuntarily raised
+his sword; at the same moment the Count liberated his blade by a
+movement rapid as thought, and his sword entirely disappeared in his
+adversary's chest; then he leaped back to avoid the back thrust, and
+fell on guard again.</p>
+
+<p>But it was all over with the young man; he rolled his haggard eyes
+twice or thrice, stretched out his arms, while letting go his sword,
+and fell his whole length on the floor, without uttering a word.</p>
+
+<p>He was dead.</p>
+
+<p>"Assassin!" his brother screamed, as he rushed sword in hand on the
+Count.</p>
+
+<p>"Traitor!" the latter replied, as he parried the thrust, and sent the
+other's sword flying to the ceiling.</p>
+
+<p>"Stay, stay!" the Duke cried, as he rushed half mad with grief between
+the two men, who had seized each other round the waist, and had both
+drawn their daggers.</p>
+
+<p>But this tardy interference was useless; the Count, who was endowed
+with a far from common strength, had easily succeeded in freeing
+himself from the young man's grasp, and had thrown him on the ground,
+where he held him by placing his knee on his chest.</p>
+
+<p>All at once a mighty rumour of arms and horses was heard in the house,
+and the hurried steps of several men hurrying up the stairs became
+audible.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" the Duke exclaimed, with a ferocious joy, "I believe my vengeance
+is at hand, at last!"</p>
+
+<p>The Count, not deigning to reply to his enemy, turned to the sailors.</p>
+
+<p>"Be off, my lads!" he shouted in a voice of thunder.</p>
+
+<p>They hesitated.</p>
+
+<p>"He goes if you wish to save me," he added.</p>
+
+<p>"Boarders away!" Michael yelled, as he dragged away his comrade; and
+the two men seizing their musquetoons by the barrel, as if to use them
+as clubs in case of need, and to clear the way, rushed into the passage
+when they disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>The Count listened anxiously, he heard oaths and the sound of an
+obstinate struggle; then, at the expiration of a moment, a distant cry,
+that summons which sailors know so well, reached him.</p>
+
+<p>Then his face grew calmer, he returned his sword to its sheath and
+coolly awaited the newcomers, muttering to himself&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"They have escaped, one chance is left me."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE ARREST.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Almost at the same moment ten or twelve men burst into the room rather
+than entered it, the noise that continued outside let it be guessed
+that a great number of others was standing on the stairs and in the
+passages, ready, were it required, to come to the assistance of the
+others.</p>
+
+<p>All these men were armed, and it was easy to recognise them at once as
+guards of the King, or rather of His Eminence the Cardinal.</p>
+
+<p>Only two of them, with crafty looks and squinting eyes, dressed in
+black like ushers, had no visible weapons; these, in all probability
+were more to be feared than the others, for beneath their feline
+obsequiousness they doubtless concealed an implacable will to do evil.</p>
+
+<p>One of these two men held some papers in his right hand, he advanced
+two or three paces, cast a suspicious glance around him, and then took
+off his cap with a courteous bow.</p>
+
+<p>"In the King's name! gentleman," he said in a quick sharp voice.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want?" the Count de Barmont asked, advancing resolutely
+towards him.</p>
+
+<p>At this movement, which he took for a hostile demonstration, the man
+in black recoiled with an ill-disguised start of terror, but feeling
+himself backed up by his acolytes, he at once resumed his coolness, and
+answered with a smile of evil augury&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Ah! The Count Ludovic de Barmont, I believe," he remarked with an
+ironical bow.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," the gentleman replied haughtily, "I am the Count de
+Barmont."</p>
+
+<p>"Captain in the navy," the man in black imperturbably added, "at
+present, commanding His Majesty's, frigate The Erigone."</p>
+
+<p>"As I told you, sir, I am the person you are in search of," the Count
+added.</p>
+
+<p>"It is really with you that I have to deal, my lord," he replied, as he
+drew himself up. "S'death, my good gentleman, you are not easy to catch
+up; I have been running after you for a week, and was almost despairing
+about having the honour of a meeting."</p>
+
+<p>All this was said with an obsequious air, a honeyed voice, and with a
+sweet smile, sufficient to exasperate a saint, and much more the person
+whom the strange man was addressing, and who was endowed with anything
+but a placable character.</p>
+
+<p>"By Heaven!" he exclaimed, stamping his foot passionately; "Are we to
+have much more of this?"</p>
+
+<p>"Patience, my good sir," he replied in the same placid tone; "patience,
+good Heaven, how quick you are!" then after taking a glance at the
+papers he held in his hand, "Since by your own confession you allow
+yourself to be really Count Ludovic de Barmont, captain commanding His
+Majesty's frigate Erigone, by virtue of the orders I bear, I arrest
+you in the King's name, for the crime of desertion; for having without
+authorization abandoned your vessel in a foreign country, that is to
+say, at the Port of Lisbon, in Portugal." Then raising his head and
+fixing his squinting eyes on the gentleman, he added, "Surrender your
+sword to me, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>M. de Barmont shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.</p>
+
+<p>"The sword of a gentleman of my race shall never be placed in the hands
+of a scoundrel of your stamp," he said, with contempt; and drawing
+his sword, he coldly broke the blade across his knee, and threw the
+fragments through the window panes, which they broke.</p>
+
+<p>Then he drew his pistols from his belt and cocked them.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir, sir!" the myrmidon exclaimed, recoiling in terror, "This is
+rebellion, remember, rebellion against the express orders of His
+Majesty and His Eminence the Cardinal Minister."</p>
+
+<p>The Count smiled disdainfully, and raising his pistols in the air,
+fired them, the bullets being buried in the ceiling; then clasping them
+by the barrel he threw them also out of the window; after which he
+crossed his hands on his chest, and said coolly&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Now do with me what you please."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you surrendered, my lord?" the fellow asked with ill-disguised
+alarm.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, from this moment I am your prisoner."</p>
+
+<p>The man in black breathed again; although he was unarmed, the haughty
+gentleman still made him feel uncomfortable.</p>
+
+<p>"Still," the latter added, "allow me to say a couple of words to this
+lady;" and he pointed to Doņa Clara, who, waited upon by Dame Tiphaine,
+who had hurried in at the disturbance in spite of her husband's
+entreaties and orders, was beginning to regain her senses.</p>
+
+<p>"No, not a word, not a syllable," the Duke exclaimed, as he threw
+himself between his daughter and the Count; "remove the villain, remove
+him."</p>
+
+<p>But the bailiff, pleased with the facility the Count had displayed in
+surrendering to him, and not wishing to excite his anger, pleased above
+all at being able to show his authority without incurring resistance,
+bravely interposed.</p>
+
+<p>"Pray, sir, allow the gentleman to speak to the lady," he said, "and to
+unburden his heart."</p>
+
+<p>"But this man is an assassin," the Duke shouted violently, "before us
+is still lying the corpse of my unhappy son, killed by him."</p>
+
+<p>"I pity you, sir," the myrmidon said without being at all affected; "I
+cannot offer any remedy for that; and you must make application in the
+proper quarter. Still, if it can be of any comfort to you, be convinced
+that I shall make a careful note of the accusation you bring, and will
+recall it to mind at the right time and place. But you must be equally
+eager to get rid of us, as we are to get away from here: hence allow
+this gentleman to bid farewell to the lady quietly, and I am convinced
+it will not take long."</p>
+
+<p>The Duke darted a ferocious glance at the bailiff; but, not wishing to
+compromise himself with such a fellow, he did not answer, and fell back
+with a gloomy air.</p>
+
+<p>The Count had watched this altercation without displaying either
+impatience or anger; with pale forehead and frowning brow, he waited,
+doubtless ready to break into some terrible extremity if his request
+were not granted.</p>
+
+<p>The bailiff only required to take one look at him to guess what was
+passing in his heart; and, not feeling at all anxious for a fresh
+contest to begin, he had prudently manoeuvred to avoid it.</p>
+
+<p>"Come," he said, "speak, my worthy gentleman, no one will oppose it."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks," the Count answered hoarsely and approached Doņa Clara, who
+watched him advance with an ardent gaze fixed on him.</p>
+
+<p>"Clara," he said to her in a firm and deeply marked voice, "do you love
+me?"</p>
+
+<p>She hesitated for a moment and bowed her head while heaving a profound
+sigh.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you love me?" he repeated.</p>
+
+<p>"I do love you, Ludovic," she replied in a faint and trembling voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you love me, as your husband before God and man, as the father of
+your child?"</p>
+
+<p>The young lady rose, her black eyes flashed fire, and stretching out
+her hands before her, she said in a voice choked by emotion&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"In the presence of my father, who is ready to curse me, before the
+body of my dead brother and in the face of the men who are listening to
+me, I swear, Ludovic, that I love you as the father of my child, and
+that I shall remain faithful to you, whatever may happen."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, Clara," he answered, "God has received your oath and will
+help you to keep it; remember that, whether dead or alive, you belong
+to me as I belong to you, and that no person on earth shall break the
+ties that unite us. Now farewell, and keep your courage."</p>
+
+<p>"Farewell!" she muttered, as she fell back in her chair and buried her
+face in her hands.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us go, gentlemen! Do with me what you please," the Count said as
+he turned to the exempt and the guards, who were involuntarily affected
+by this scene.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke bounded with a tiger leap on his daughter, and seizing
+her right arm with a frenzied gesture, he forced her to raise her
+tear-swollen face to his, and fixing on her a glance loaded with all
+the rage that swelled his heart, he said in a voice which fury rendered
+sibilant&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Daughter, prepare to marry within two days, the man I destine for you.
+As for your child, you will never see it again; it no longer exists for
+you."</p>
+
+<p>The young lady uttered a cry of despair and fell back deprived of her
+senses in the arms of Dame Tiphaine.</p>
+
+<p>The Count, who at this moment was leaving the room, stopped short and
+turned round to the Duke with his arm stretched out toward him:</p>
+
+<p>"Hangman," he shouted in a hoarse voice which chilled his auditors
+with horror, "I curse you, I swear on my honor as a gentlemen to take
+on you and yours so terrible a vengeance, that the memory of it shall
+remain eternal; and if I cannot reach you, you and the whole nation
+to which you belong shall be buried beneath the implacable weight of
+my hatred. Between us henceforth there is a war of savages and wild
+beasts, without truce or mercy; farewell."</p>
+
+<p>And leaving the proud Spaniard horrified by this fearful anathema, the
+gentleman quitted the room with a firm step, and taking a last loving
+glance at the woman he adored, from whom he was perhaps eternally
+separated.</p>
+
+<p>The passages, stairs, and inn garden were filled with armed men; it was
+evidently a miracle that the two sailors had succeeded in escaping and
+getting away safe and sound; this gave the Count, hope and he went down
+the stairs with an assured step, carefully watched by his escort who
+did not let him out of sight.</p>
+
+<p>The guards had been long before warned that they would have to do
+with a naval officer possessing an inordinate violence of character,
+prodigious vigour and indomitable courage; hence the resignation of the
+prisoner, which they believed to be assumed, only inspired them with
+very slight confidence, and they were continually on the defensive.</p>
+
+<p>When they came out into the garden the chief of the exempts noticed the
+coach, which was still standing at the door.</p>
+
+<p>"Why," he said with a grin and rubbing his hands, "here's the very
+thing we want. In our hurry to get here, we forgot to provide ourselves
+with a coach; be good enough to get in, my lord," he said as he opened
+the door.</p>
+
+<p>The Count got in without any further hesitation; and the exempts then
+addressed the driver who was sitting motionless on his box.</p>
+
+<p>"Come down, scamp," he said in a tone of authority; "I require the use
+of this coach for an affair of state. Give up your place to one of my
+men. Wideawake," he added, turning to a tall impudent looking fellow
+standing by his side, "get up on the box in that man's place&mdash;let us be
+off."</p>
+
+<p>The driver did not attempt to resist this peremptory order; he
+descended and his place was immediately taken by Wideawake; the exempt
+then entered the carriage, seated himself facing his prisoner, closed
+the door, and the steeds, aroused by a vigorous, lash, dashed forward
+dragging after them the heavy vehicle round which the twenty odd
+soldiers were collected.</p>
+
+<p>For a considerable period the coach rolled along without a word being
+exchanged between the prisoner and his guard.</p>
+
+<p>The Count was thinking, the exempt sleeping, or, to speak more
+correctly, pretending to sleep.</p>
+
+<p>In the month of March the nights are beginning to shorten; daylight
+soon appeared, and broad white stripes were beginning to cross the sky.</p>
+
+<p>The Count, who up to this moment had remained motionless, gave a slight
+start.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you suffering, my lord?" the exempt inquired. This question was
+addressed to him with an intonation so different from that hitherto
+employed by the man who had made him prisoner; there was in the sound
+of his voice an accent so really gentle and sympathizing, that the
+Count involuntarily started, and took a fixed look at his singular
+companion: but so far as he could see by the faint light of coming
+dawn, the man in front of him still had the same crafty face and the
+same ironical smile stereotyped on his lips. The Count found himself
+in error, and throwing himself back, merely uttered one word, "No," in
+a tone intended to break off any attempt at conversation between his
+guardian and himself.</p>
+
+<p>But the former was probably in a humour for talking, for he would
+not be checked; and pretending not to remark the manner in which his
+advances had been received, he continued&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"The nights are still chill, the breeze enters this coach on all sides,
+and I feared lest the cold had struck you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am habituated to suffer heat and cold," the Count answered;
+"besides, it is probable that if I have not yet made my apprenticeship,
+I am about to undergo one which will accustom me to endure everything
+without complaining."</p>
+
+<p>"Who knows, my lord?" the exempt said, with a shake of the head.</p>
+
+<p>"What?" the other objected, "Am I not condemned to a lengthened
+captivity in a fortress?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, according to the terms of the order, which it is my duty to carry
+out."</p>
+
+<p>There was a momentary silence. The Count gazed absently at the country
+which the first beams of day were beginning to illumine. At length he
+turned to the exempt.</p>
+
+<p>"May I ask whither you are taking me?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"I see no objection to your doing so."</p>
+
+<p>"And you will answer my question?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why not? There is nothing to prevent it."</p>
+
+<p>"Then we are going?"</p>
+
+<p>"To the isles of St. Marguerite, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>The Count trembled inwardly. The islands of Lerins, or Sainte
+Marguerite, enjoyed at that time, even, a reputation almost as terrible
+as the one they acquired at a later date, when they served as a prison
+to the mysterious iron mask, whom it was forbidden to take even a
+glance at under penalty of death.</p>
+
+<p>The exempt looked at him fixedly without speaking.</p>
+
+<p>It was the Count who again resumed the conversation.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are we now?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>The exempt bent out of the window, and then resumed his seat.</p>
+
+<p>"We are just arriving at Corbeil, where we shall change horses."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" said the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"If you wish to rest, I can give orders for an hour's stay. Perhaps you
+feel a want of some refreshment?"</p>
+
+<p>This singular man was gradually acquiring in the Count's eyes all the
+interest of an enigma.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," he said.</p>
+
+<p>Without replying the exempt let down the window.</p>
+
+<p>"Wideawake!" he shouted.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter?" the latter asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Pull up at the Golden Lion."</p>
+
+<p>"All right."</p>
+
+<p>Ten minutes later the coach halted in the Rue St. Spire, in front of a
+door over which creaked a sign representing an enormous gilt cat, with
+one of its paws on a ball. They had arrived.</p>
+
+<p>The exempt got out, followed by the Count, and both entered the inn:
+one portion of the escort remained in the saddle in the street, while
+the others dismounted and installed themselves in the common room.</p>
+
+<p>The Count had mechanically followed the exempt, and on reaching the
+room, seated himself in a chair by the fire, in a first floor decently
+furnished room. He was too busy with his own thoughts to attach any
+great attention to what was going on around him.</p>
+
+<p>When the landlord had left them alone, the exempt bolted the door
+inside, and then placed himself in front of his prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," he said, "let us speak frankly, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>The latter, astonished at this sudden address, quickly raised his head.</p>
+
+<p>"We have no time to lose in coming to an understanding, sir; so please
+to listen without interrupting me," the exempt continued. "I am
+Franįois Bouillot, the younger brother of your foster father. Do you
+recognise me?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," the Count replied, after examining him attentively for a moment.</p>
+
+<p>"That does not surprise me, for you were only eight years old the last
+time I had the honor of seeing you at Barmont Castle: but that is of no
+consequence; I am devoted to you, and wish to save you."</p>
+
+<p>"What assures me that you are really Franįois Bouillot, the brother of
+my foster father, and that you are not attempting to deceive me?" the
+Count answered, in a suspicious accent.</p>
+
+<p>The exempt felt in his pocket, pulled out several papers, which he
+unfolded, and presented them open to the Count.</p>
+
+<p>The latter looked at them mechanically: they consisted of a baptismal
+certificate, a commission, and several letters proving his identity.
+The Count handed him the letters back.</p>
+
+<p>"How is it that you should have been the man to arrest me, and arrived
+so opportunely to aid me?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"In a very simple way, my lord: your order of arrest was obtained from
+the Cardinal Minister by the Dutch Embassy. I was present when M. de
+Laffemas, a familiar of his Eminence, who is kind to me, left the
+Palais Cardinal order in hand: I was there, and he chose me. Still, as
+I was able to decline, I should have done so, had I not seen your name
+on the paper, and remembered the kindness your family had shown to me
+and my brother. Taking advantage of the opportunity my profession of
+exempt offered me, I resolved to repay you what your friends have done
+for mine, by attempting to save you."</p>
+
+<p>"That does not seem to me very easy, my poor friend."</p>
+
+<p>"More so than you may fancy, my lord: I will leave here one-half our
+escort, and then only ten will remain with us."</p>
+
+<p>"Hum! That is a very decent number," the Count replied, involuntarily
+interested.</p>
+
+<p>"They would be too many if there were not among the ten men seven of
+whom I am certain, which reduces the number of those we have to fear
+to three. I have been running after you for a long time, my lord," he
+added, with a laugh, "and all my precautions are taken: through some
+excuse, easy to be found, we will pass through Toulon, and on arriving
+there, we will stop for an hour or two at a hostelry I know. You will
+disguise yourself as a mendicant monk, and leave the inn unnoticed. I
+will take care to get rid of the guards I am not certain of. You will
+proceed to the port furnished with papers I will hand you; you will go
+on board a charming chasse-marée, called the <i>Seamew</i>, which I have
+freighted on your account, and which is waiting for you. The master
+will recognise you by a password I will tell you, and you will be at
+liberty to go whither-soever you please. Is not this plan extremely
+simple, my lord?" he asked, rubbing his hands joyously, "And have I not
+foreseen everything?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, my friend," the Count answered with emotion, as he offered him his
+hand; "there is one more thing you have not foreseen."</p>
+
+<p>"What is that, my lord?" he asked, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"That I do not wish to fly," the young man answered, with a melancholy
+shake of the head.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE ISLE OF SAINTE MARGUERITE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>At this answer, which he was so far from anticipating, the exempt gave
+a start of surprise, and looked at the Count as if he had not exactly
+understood him.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman smiled gently.</p>
+
+<p>"That surprises you, does it not?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"I confess it, my lord," the other stammered, with embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p>The Count went on:</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he said, "I can understand your surprise at my refusal to accept
+your generous proposition. It is not often you find a prisoner to whom
+liberty is offered, and who insists on remaining a captive. I owe you
+an explanation of this extraordinary conduct; this explanation I will
+give you at once, so that you may no longer press me, but leave me to
+act as I think proper."</p>
+
+<p>"I am only the most humble, of your servants, my lord Count. You
+doubtless know better than I what your conduct should be under the
+circumstances, you have therefore no occasion to explain it to me."</p>
+
+<p>"It is precisely because you are an old servant of my family, Franįois
+Bouillot, and because you are giving me at this moment a proof of
+unbounded devotion, that I believe myself obliged to tell you the
+motives for this refusal, which has so many reasons to surprise you.
+Listen to me, then."</p>
+
+<p>"As you insist, my lord, I obey you."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, take a chair, and place yourself here by my side, as it is
+unnecessary for others beside yourself to hear what I am going to say."</p>
+
+<p>The exempt took a stool and seated himself by his master's side,
+exactly as the latter had ordered, while still keeping up a respectful
+distance between himself and the gentleman.</p>
+
+<p>"In the first place," the Count resumed, "be thoroughly convinced that
+if I refuse your offer, it is not through any motive of a personal
+nature as regards yourself. I have full confidence in you, for nearly
+200 years your family has been attached to mine, and we have ever had
+reason to praise their devotion to our interest. This important point
+being settled, I will go on. I will suppose for a moment that the
+plan you have formed is successful, a plan which I will not discuss,
+although it appears to me very difficult to execute, and the slightest
+accident might, at the last moment, compromise its issue. What will
+happen? Forced to fly without resources, without friends, I should not
+only be unable to take the revenge I meditate upon my enemies, but
+surrendered, so to speak, to their mercy, I should speedily fall into
+their hands again, and thus become the laughing stock of those whom I
+hate. I should be dishonoured; they will despise me, and I shall have
+but one way of escape from a life henceforth rendered useless, as all
+my plans would be overthrown, and that is blowing out my brains."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! my lord!" Bouillot exclaimed, clasping his hands.</p>
+
+<p>"I do not wish to fall," the Count continued imperturbably, "in the
+terrible struggle which has this day begun between my enemies and
+myself. I have taken an oath, and that oath I will keep, regardless
+of the consequences. I am young, hardly twenty-five years of age; up
+to the present, life has only been one long joy for me, and I have
+succeeded in everything, plans of ambition, fortune and love. Today
+misfortune has come to lay its hand on me, and it is welcome; for the
+man who has not suffered is not a perfect man; grief purifies the mind
+and tempers the heart. Solitude is a good councillor; it makes a man
+comprehend the nothingness of small things, expands the ideas, and
+prepares grand conceptions. I require to steel myself through sorrow,
+in order to be able one day to repay my enemies a hundredfold all
+that I have suffered at their hands. It is by thinking over my broken
+career and my ruined future, that I shall find the necessary strength
+to accomplish my vengeance. When my heart is dead to every other
+feeling but that of the hatred which will entirely occupy it, I shall
+be able pitilessly to trample underfoot all those who today laugh at
+me and believe they have crushed me, because they have hurled me down;
+and then I shall be really a man, and woe to those who try to measure
+their strength with mine. You tremble at what I am saying to you at
+this moment, my old servant," he added more gently, "what would it be
+were you able to read in my heart all the hatred, auger, and rage it
+contains against those who have mercilessly ground me beneath their
+heel, and who have eternally deprived me of happiness, in order to
+satisfy the paltry calculations of a narrow and criminal ambition?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, my lord Count! Permit an old servant of your family, a man who is
+entirely devoted to you, to implore you to resign these fearful schemes
+of vengeance. Alas! You will be the first victim of your hatred."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you forgotten, Bouillot," the Count replied ironically, "what is
+said in our country, about the members of the family to which I have
+the honor of belonging?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes, my lord," he said with a melancholy shake of the head; "I
+remember it, and will repeat it if you wish."</p>
+
+<p>"Do so."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, my lord, the distich is as follows&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"'The Counts of Barmont Senectaire, Demon-hate and heart of stone.'"</p>
+
+<p>The Count smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"Well do you fancy that I have degenerated from my ancestors?"</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose nothing, sir, Heaven forbid!" he answered humbly, "I only
+see with terror that you are preparing a hideous future for yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"Be it so! I accept it in all its rigor, if God will permit me to
+accomplish my oath."</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! My lord, you know that man proposes; you are at this moment a
+prisoner of the Cardinal; reflect, I implore you, who knows whether
+you will ever leave the prison to which I am conducting you? Consent to
+be free."</p>
+
+<p>"No; cease your entreaties! The Cardinal is not immortal. If not
+before, my liberty will be restored me on his death, which cannot
+be long deferred, I hope. And now carefully bear this in mind, my
+resolution is so fixed, that if in spite of my orders you abandon me
+here, at the inn where we now are, the first use I should make of the
+liberty you have given me back, would be to go at once and surrender
+myself into the hands of his Eminence; you understand me thoroughly, I
+suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>The old servant bowed his head without answering, and two tears slowly
+ran down his cheeks.</p>
+
+<p>This dumb grief, so true and so touching, affected the Count more than
+he would have supposed; he rose, took the poor fellow's hand and shook
+it several times.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us say no more about this, Bouillot," he remarked to him
+affectionately, "although I will not profit by it, your devotion has
+deeply affected me, and I will ever feel eternally grateful to you for
+it. Come, my old friend, let us not grow foolish; we are men and not
+childish poltroons, confound it."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, no matter, my lord, I do not consider myself beaten," the exempt
+replied, as he threw himself into the arms open to receive him; "you
+cannot prevent me from watching over you, whether near or afar."</p>
+
+<p>"That I do not oppose, my friend," the Count replied with a laugh; "do
+as you please; besides," he added seriously, "I confess that I shall
+not be sorry when I am sequestered from the world to know what is going
+on, and to be kept informed, of passing events; some unforeseen fact
+might occur which would modify my intentions and make me desire the
+recovery of my liberty."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, be sure of that, my lord," he exclaimed, pleased at this quasi
+victory and conditional promise, "I will arrange so that you shall not
+be at a loss for news; I have not served his Eminence for six years
+for nothing; the Cardinal is a good master, I have profited by his
+teaching, and know several tricks; you shall see me at work."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that is agreed, and we understand each other now. I think it
+would be wise to breakfast before continuing our journey, for I feel an
+appetite that greatly requires appeasing."</p>
+
+<p>"I will give the landlord orders to serve you at once, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>"You will breakfast with me, Bouillot," he said as he gave him a
+friendly tap on the shoulder; "and I hope it will be always so, until
+our arrival at the Isle of St. Marguerite."</p>
+
+<p>"It is certainly a great honour for me, sir, but&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"I expect it; besides are you not almost a member of my family?"</p>
+
+<p>Franįois Bouillot bowed and left the room; after ordering a copious
+breakfast, he commanded one part of the escort back to Paris; then
+he returned to the room, followed by the landlord, who, in a second,
+covered the table with all that was wanted to make a good meal, and
+withdrew discreetly, leaving his guests to attack the dishes placed
+before them.</p>
+
+<p>The journey was continued without any incident worthy of note.</p>
+
+<p>The prisoner's conversation with his keeper had been decisive; the
+latter was too well acquainted with the character of the man with whom
+he had to deal to attempt to revert to a subject which had been so
+distinctly disposed of on the first occasion.</p>
+
+<p>At the period when our history takes place, France was not as now
+intersected by magnificent roads, and the shortest journey demanded
+an enormous expenditure of time; the coaches, heavy vehicles badly
+built and worse horsed, had great difficulty in resisting the numerous
+joltings and the ruts in which they were for the greater portion of
+the time buried up to the axletree, and hence, in spite of the speed
+employed, seventeen days elapsed ere the prisoner and his escort
+arrived at Toulon.</p>
+
+<p>This town was even at that early period one of the principal military
+ports of France, and the Count felt an indescribable pang at heart when
+he entered it.</p>
+
+<p>It was in this town that his naval career had begun, here for the first
+time he had set foot aboard a vessel with the rank of midshipman, and
+had undergone the preparatory trials of that rude naval profession, in
+which, in spite of his youth, he soon attained a great reputation and
+almost celebrity.</p>
+
+<p>The coach stopped in the Haymarket, in front of the "Cross of Malta,"
+probably the oldest inn in France, for it is still in existence,
+although it has undergone many indispensable changes both internally
+and externally.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as he had installed his prisoner comfortably in the Inn,
+Franįois Bouillot went out.</p>
+
+<p>If he placed a sentry before the Count's door, it was rather in
+obedience to his duty, than through any fear of escape, for he had not
+even taken the trouble to lock the door, so convinced was he beforehand
+that unfortunately his prisoner would not attempt to pass out of it.</p>
+
+<p>He remained away for about two hours.</p>
+
+<p>"You have been absent a long time," the Count remarked on his return.</p>
+
+<p>"I had some important business to settle," he replied.</p>
+
+<p>The Count, without adding a word, resumed his walk up and down the room
+which Bouillot's return had interrupted.</p>
+
+<p>There was a momentary silence, Bouillot was evidently embarrassed,
+he went about the room, pretending to arrange sundry articles of
+furniture, and disarranging everything; at last seeing that the Count
+obstinately remained silent and would not perceive that he was in the
+room, he placed himself in front of him so as to bar his passage, and
+looked at him intently as he whispered with a stress on the words.</p>
+
+<p>"You do not ask where I have been."</p>
+
+<p>"What is the use?" the Count replied carelessly; "About your own
+business, of course."</p>
+
+<p>"No, my lord, about yours."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, the <i>Seamew</i> awaits you."</p>
+
+<p>The Count smiled and slightly shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah, you are still thinking of that; I believed, my dear Bouillot,
+that it was arranged between us that we should not return to this
+subject. That was the reason, then, that you lengthened our journey, by
+making us pass through Toulon, at which I felt surprised. I could not
+account for the strange itinerary you were following."</p>
+
+<p>"My lord," he muttered, clasping his hands imploringly.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, you are mad, my dear Bouillot, you ought to know by this time,
+though, that when I have formed a resolution, good or bad, I never
+alter it; so no more of this, I beg, it would be quite useless. I
+pledge you my word as a gentleman."</p>
+
+<p>The old servant uttered a groan that resembled a death rattle.</p>
+
+<p>"Your will be done, my lord," he stammered. "When do we start for
+Antibes?"</p>
+
+<p>"At once, if you wish it."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, the sooner the better."</p>
+
+<p>After bowing, the exempt left the room to make all preparations for
+departure.</p>
+
+<p>As we see, the parts were completely introverted, it was the prisoner
+who gave orders to his keeper.</p>
+
+<p>One hour later, in fact, the Count quitted Toulon. All along the road
+the two men, constantly companions, and eating and drinking together,
+conversed about indifferent matters. Bouillot had at last recognized
+the fact that it was useless to make any further effort to induce the
+Count to escape; still he had not given up his scheme, but merely
+deferred it till a more distant period, reckoning as an ally the
+annoyance of a prolonged detention, and an inactive and useless life
+upon an organization so impetuous as that of the prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as he arrived at Antibes, by the express command of the Count,
+who seemed to take a certain pleasure in tormenting him, he set out in
+search of some boat to carry them across to Sainte Marguerite.</p>
+
+<p>His search was neither long nor difficult; as bearer of a Cardinal's
+order, he laid an embargo on the first fishing boat he came across,
+and embarked aboard it with all his people.</p>
+
+<p>On leaving the mainland, the Count turned, and a smile of peculiar
+meaning played round his lips.</p>
+
+<p>Bouillot, deceived by this smile, whose secret intention he did not
+penetrate, bent down to the Count's ear.</p>
+
+<p>"If you like, there is still time," he whispered.</p>
+
+<p>The Count looked at him, shrugged his shoulders, and without replying,
+sat down in the stern of the boat.</p>
+
+<p>"Push off," Bouillot then shouted to the master.</p>
+
+<p>The latter seized his boathook, and they were soon under weigh.</p>
+
+<p>The Lerins islands form a group composed of several rocks, and
+two islands surrounded by shoals; the first known as Isle Sainte
+Marguerite, the second as Saint Honorat.</p>
+
+<p>At the period of our narration only the first was fortified; the other,
+inhabited by a few fishermen, merely contained the still considerable
+ruins of the monastery founded by Saint Honorat circa the year 400.</p>
+
+<p>The Sainte Marguerite island was uninhabited, flat, and only offering
+along its entire coast, one very unsafe creek for vessels. Although
+it is extremely fertile, and pomegranates, orange and fig trees, grow
+there in the open air, no one had thought of taking up his abode there,
+and we are not aware whether a change has since taken place.</p>
+
+<p>A very important fortress, which, at a later date, attained a
+melancholy reputation as a state prison, was erected on the island, the
+greater portion of which it occupied.</p>
+
+<p>This fort was composed of three towers, connected together by terraces,
+which time had covered with a yellowish moss, while a wide deep moat
+surrounded the walls.</p>
+
+<p>A few years prior to the beginning of our story, in 1635, the Spaniards
+had seized it by surprise.</p>
+
+<p>The Cardinal, in order to prevent the repetition of such a calamity,
+had judged it advisable to protect the fort from a <i>coup de main</i>, by
+placing there a garrison of fifty picked soldiers, commanded by a major
+performing the duties of governor. He was an old officer of fortune,
+whom this post served as a retreat, and who, far from the cares of the
+world, led a perfect canonical life, thanks to a tacit understanding
+with the smugglers, who alone cast anchor in these parts.</p>
+
+<p>The officer who commanded the fort at this moment was an old gentleman,
+tall, thin, and wizened, with harsh features, who had had a leg and
+arm cut off. His name was Monsieur de l'Oursičre; he was constantly
+scolding and abusing his subordinates, and the day when he left the
+Crown regiment, in which he held the rank of major, was kept as a
+holiday by the whole regiment, officers and men; so cordially was the
+worthy man detested.</p>
+
+<p>Cardinal de Richelieu was a good judge of men; in selecting Major de
+l'Oursičre to make him governor of Sainte Marguerite, and metamorphose
+him into a gaoler, he had found the exact post which suited his
+quarrelsome temper, and his cruel instincts.</p>
+
+<p>It was on this amiable personage that the Count de Barmont would
+have to be dependant for doubtless a considerable period; for, if
+the Cardinal Minister easily shut the gate of a state prison on a
+gentleman, to make up for it, he was never in a hurry to open it again,
+and a prisoner, unless something extraordinary occurred, was almost
+safe to die forgotten in his dungeon, except when his Eminence had a
+whim to have his head cut off in broad daylight.</p>
+
+<p>After a number of countersigns had been exchanged with a profuseness
+of caution which bore witness to the good guard and strict discipline
+maintained by the governor, the prisoner and his escort were at length
+introduced into the fortress, and admitted to the Major's presence.</p>
+
+<p>The Major was just finishing his breakfast, when a Cardinal's messenger
+was announced to him: he buttoned his uniform, put on his sword and
+hat, and ordered the messenger to be shown in.</p>
+
+<p>Franįois Bouillot entered, followed by the Count, bowed, and presented
+the order of which he was the bearer.</p>
+
+<p>The governor took it, and read it through; then he turned to the Count,
+who was standing motionless a few paces in the rear, made him a slight
+bow, and addressed him in a dry voice, and with a rough accent.</p>
+
+<p>"Your servant, sir," he said to him: "are you the Count de Barmont,
+whose name is written on this paper?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," the Count answered, bowing in his turn.</p>
+
+<p>"I am sorry, sir, truly sorry," the Major resumed; "but I have strict
+orders with reference to you, and a soldier only knows his duty; still,
+believe me, sir, hum, hum, that I shall try to reconcile my natural
+humanity with the rigour that is recommended to me, hum, hum, I know
+how gentlemen ought to behave to each other, sir; be assured of that."</p>
+
+<p>And the governor, doubtless satisfied at the speech he had just
+uttered, smiled, and drew himself gracefully up.</p>
+
+<p>The Count bowed, but made no answer.</p>
+
+<p>"You shall be conducted to your apartment at once, sir," the Major went
+on; "hum, hum! I wish it was handsomer, but I did not expect you; hum,
+hum, and you know how things are&mdash;hum, hum, we will manage to lodge
+you more comfortably hereafter; la Berloque," he added, turning to a
+soldier standing near the door, "conduct this gentleman, hum, hum, to
+room No. 8, in the second turret; hum, hum, I believe it is the most
+habitable one; your servant, sir, your servant, hum, hum!"</p>
+
+<p>And after having thus unceremoniously dismissed the Count, the Major
+went into another room.</p>
+
+<p>M. de Barmont, accompanied by Bouillot and the guards, who had brought
+him, followed the soldier.</p>
+
+<p>The latter led them through several passages, and up various stairs,
+and then stopped before a door, garnished with formidable bolts.</p>
+
+<p>"It is here," he said.</p>
+
+<p>The Count then turned to Bouillot, and affectionately offered him his
+hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Farewell, my old friend," he said to him in a gentle but firm voice,
+while a vague smile played round his lips.</p>
+
+<p>"Farewell, till we meet again," Bouillot said, with a stress on the
+words. Then he took leave of him, and withdrew, with his eyes full of
+tears.</p>
+
+<p>The door closed with a mournful sound on the prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" the old servant muttered, as he pensively went down the turret
+stairs, "Woe to those who venture to oppose the Count, if ever he
+leaves his prison again! And he shall do so, I swear it, even if I must
+risk my life in securing his escape."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>A BACKWARD GLANCE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>The family of the Count de Barmont Senectaire was one of the most
+ancient and noble in Languedoc; their origin went back to an antiquity
+so remote, that we may declare without fear of contradiction that it
+was lost in the mist of ages.</p>
+
+<p>A Barmont Senectaire fought at Bouvines by the side of Philip Augustus.</p>
+
+<p>The chronicle of Joinville mentions a Barmont Senectaire, knight
+banneret, who died of the plague at Tunis, in 1270, during the second
+crusade of King Louis IX.</p>
+
+<p>Francis I. on the evening of the battle of Marignano, gave the rank of
+Count on the battlefield itself to Euguerrand de Barmont Senectaire,
+captain of one hundred men at arms, to reward him for his grand conduct
+and the sturdy blows he had seen him deal during the whole period of
+that combat of giants.</p>
+
+<p>Few noble families have such splendid title deeds among their archives.</p>
+
+<p>The Counts de Barmont were always military nobles, and they gave France
+several celebrated generals.</p>
+
+<p>But in the course of time, the power and fortune of this family
+gradually diminished: during the reign of Henri III. it was reduced to
+a condition bordering on poverty. Still, justly proud of a stainless
+past, they continued to carry their heads high in the province, and if
+the Count de Barmont endured hard privations in order to support his
+name worthily, nothing of this was visible externally, and everybody
+was ignorant of the fact.</p>
+
+<p>The Count had attached himself to the fortunes of the King of Navarre
+as much through the hope of regaining a position through the war,
+as through admiration of this prince, whose genius he had probably
+divined. A brave soldier, but young, impetuous, and handsome, the
+Count had several affairs of gallantry. One among others with a lady
+of the Town of Cahors, affianced to a very rich Spanish noble, whom he
+succeeded in carrying off on the very day before that appointed for the
+marriage. The Spaniard, who was very strict in matters affecting his
+honour, considered this joke in bad taste, and demanded satisfaction
+of the Count; the latter gave him two sword thrusts, and left him
+dead on the ground. This affair attracted great attention, and gained
+the Count much honor among people of refinement; but the Spaniard,
+contrary to expectation, recovered from his wounds. The two gentlemen
+fought again, and this time the Count so ill treated his adversary
+that the latter was constrained to give up all thoughts of a new
+meeting. This adventure disgusted the Count with gallantry, not that he
+personally feared the results of the hatred which the Duke of Peņaflor
+had sworn against him, for he never heard of him again, but because
+his conscience reproached him with having, for the satisfaction of a
+caprice which passed away so soon as it was satisfied, destroyed the
+happiness of an honourable man, and he felt remorse for his conduct in
+the affair.</p>
+
+<p>After bravely fighting by the side of the King during all his wars,
+the Count finally retired to his estates, about the year 1610, after
+the death of that Prince, disgusted with the Court, and feeling the
+necessity of repose after such an amount of fatigue.</p>
+
+<p>Here, four or five years later, wearied with the solitude in which
+he lived, and, perhaps, in the hope of expelling from his mind a
+troublesome recollection, which, in spite of the time that had elapsed,
+did not cease to torture him, the Count resolved to marry, and selected
+for his wife a young lady belonging to one of the best families in
+the province&mdash;charming and gentle, but as poor as himself; this
+circumstance was far from bringing ease into the family, whose position
+daily became more difficult.</p>
+
+<p>The union, however, was a happy one; in 1616 the Countess was delivered
+of a son, who at once became the joy of the poor household.</p>
+
+<p>This son was Count Ludovic, whose story we have undertaken to tell.</p>
+
+<p>In spite of his fondness for the boy, the Count, however, brought him
+up strictly, wishing to make of him a rude, brave, and loyal gentleman,
+like himself.</p>
+
+<p>Young Ludovic felt at an early hour, on discovering what misery was
+concealed behind the apparent splendour of his family, the necessity
+of creating for himself an independent position, which would allow him
+not only to be no longer a burden to parents whom he loved, and who
+sacrificed to him the greater portion of their income, but to restore
+also the eclipsed lustre of the name he bore.</p>
+
+<p>Contrary to the custom followed by his ancestors, who had all served
+the king or his armies, his tastes led him to the navy.</p>
+
+<p>Owing to the assiduous care of an old and worthy priest, who had
+become his tutor through attachment to his family, he had received a
+solid education, by which he had profited; accounts of voyages, which
+constituted his principal reading, inflamed his imagination; all his
+thoughts were turned to America, where, according to the statements of
+sailors, gold abounded, and he had but one desire&mdash;to land himself
+in this mysterious country, and take his part of the rich crop which
+everybody garnered there.</p>
+
+<p>His father, and his mother even more, for a long time resisted his
+entreaties. The old man, who had fought during so many years, could not
+understand why his son should not do the same, or prefer the navy to a
+commission in the army. The Countess, in her heart, did not wish to see
+her son either soldier or sailor, for both professions terrified her;
+she feared for her son the unknown perils of distant excursions, and
+her tenderness was alarmed by the thought of what might be an eternal
+separation.</p>
+
+<p>Still, something must be done, and as the young man obstinately adhered
+to his resolution, his parents were compelled to yield and consent to
+what he desired, whatever might be the future consequences of this
+determination.</p>
+
+<p>The Count still had some old friends at Court, among them being the
+Duke de Bellegarde, who stood on terms of great intimacy with King
+Louis XIII., surnamed the "<i>Just</i>" during his lifetime, because he was
+born under the sign of Libra.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur de Barmont had also been connected at an earlier date with
+the Duke d'Epernon, created Admiral of France in 1587; but he had a
+repugnance in applying to him, owing to the rumours that were spread
+at the time of the assassination of Henri IV. Still, in a case so
+urgent as the present one, the Count comprehended that for the sake of
+his son he must silence his private feelings, and at the same time as
+he addressed a letter to the Duke de Bellegarde, he sent another to
+Epernon, who at this period was Governor of Guyenne.</p>
+
+<p>The double answer the Count expected was not long deferred; M. de
+Barmont's two old friends had not forgotten him, and hastened to employ
+their credit on his behalf.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke d'Epernon especially, better situated through his title of
+Admiral to be useful to the young man, wrote that he would gladly
+undertake the duty of pushing him on in the world.</p>
+
+<p>This took place at the beginning of 1631, when Ludovic de Barmont had
+reached his sixteenth year.</p>
+
+<p>Being very tall, with a proud and haughty air, and endowed with rare
+vigour and great agility, the young man seemed older than he in reality
+was. It was with the liveliest joy that he learned how his wishes
+had been fulfilled, and that nothing prevented him from embracing a
+maritime career.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke d'Epernon's letter requested the Count de Barmont to send his
+son as speedily as possible to Bordeaux, so that he might at once place
+him aboard a man-of-war, to commence his apprenticeship.</p>
+
+<p>Two days after the receipt of this letter the young man tore himself
+with difficulty from the embraces of his mother, bade his father a
+respectful farewell, and took the road to Bordeaux, mounted on a good
+horse, and followed by a confidential valet.</p>
+
+<p>The navy had for a long time been neglected in France; and left during
+the middle ages in the hands of private persons, as the government,
+following the example of the other continental powers, did not deign
+to try and secure a respectable position on the seas, much less a
+supremacy; thus we see during the reign of Francis I., who was,
+however, one of the warlike Kings of France, Ango, a ship broker of
+Dieppe, from whom the Portuguese had taken a vessel during a profound
+peace, authorized by the King, who was unable to procure him justice,
+to equip a fleet at his own expense. With this fleet Ango, we may
+remark incidentally, blockaded the port of Lisbon, and did not cease
+hostilities until he had forced the Portuguese to send to France
+ambassadors humbly to ask peace of the King.</p>
+
+<p>The discovery of the New World, however, and the no less important one
+of the Cape of Good Hope, by giving navigation a greater activity and
+a more extended sphere, at the same time as they widened the limits of
+commerce, caused the necessity to be felt of creating a navy, intended
+to protect merchant vessels against the attacks of corsairs.</p>
+
+<p>It was not till the reign of Louis XIII. that the idea of creating a
+navy began to be carried into execution. Cardinal de Richelieu, whose
+vast genius embraced everything, and whom the English fleets had
+caused several times to tremble during the long and wearying siege of
+Rochelle, passed several decrees relating to the navy, and founded a
+school of navigation, intended to educate those young gentlemen who
+desired to serve the King aboard his vessels.</p>
+
+<p>It is to this great minister, then, that France is indebted for the
+first thought of a navy; this navy was destined to contend against
+the Spanish and Dutch fleets, and during the reign of Louis XIV., to
+acquire so great an importance, and momentarily hold in check the power
+of England.</p>
+
+<p>It was this school of navigation created by Richelieu that the Viscount
+de Barmont entered, thanks to the influence of the Duke d'Epernon.</p>
+
+<p>The old gentleman strictly kept the pledge he had given his former
+comrade in arms; he did not cease to protect the young man, which,
+however, was an easy task, for the latter displayed an extraordinary
+aptitude, and a talent very rare at that date in the profession he had
+embraced.</p>
+
+<p>Hence, in 1641, he was already a captain in the navy, and had the
+command of a twenty-six gun frigate.</p>
+
+<p>Unfortunately, neither the old Count de Barmont nor his wife was able
+to enjoy the success of their son or the new era opening for their
+house; they both died a few days apart from each other, leaving the
+young man an orphan at the age of two-and-twenty.</p>
+
+<p>As a pious son, Ludovic, who really loved his parents, lamented and
+regretted them, especially his mother, who had always been so kind and
+tender to him; but, as he had been accustomed for so many years to live
+alone during his long voyages, and only to trust to himself, he did not
+feel the loss so painfully as he would have done had he never left the
+paternal roof.</p>
+
+<p>Henceforth the sole representative of his house, he regarded life more
+seriously than he had hitherto done, and redoubled his efforts to
+restore to his name its almost eclipsed lustre, which, thanks to his
+exertions, was beginning to shine again with renewed brilliancy.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke d'Epernon still lived, but a forgotten relic of an almost
+entirely departed generation&mdash;a sickly octogenarian, who had quarrelled
+long ago with Cardinal de Richelieu, his influence was null, and he
+could do nothing for the man he had so warmly protected a few years
+previously.</p>
+
+<p>But the Count did not allow this to prey on his mind; the naval
+service was not envied by the nobility, good officers were rare, and
+he believed that if he cautiously avoided mixing himself up in any
+political intrigue, he might have a brilliant career.</p>
+
+<p>An accident, impossible to foresee, was fated to destroy all his
+ambitious plans, and ruin his career forever.</p>
+
+<p>This is how the affair occurred:&mdash;The Count de Barmont, at the time
+commanding the Erigone, twenty-six gun frigate, after a lengthened
+cruise in the Algerian waters to protect French merchant vessels
+against the Barbary pirates, steered for the states of Gibraltar, in
+order to reach the Atlantic, and return to Brest, whither he had orders
+to proceed at the end of his cruise; but just as he was about to pass
+through the Straits, he was caught by a squall, and after extraordinary
+efforts to continue his course, which almost cast him on to the coast
+of Africa, owing to the strength of the wind and the rough, chopping
+sea, he was obliged to stand off and on for several hours, and finally
+take refuge in the port of Algeciras, which was to windward of him, on
+the Spanish coast.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as he had anchored, and made all snug, the commandant, who
+knew from experience that two or three days would elapse ere the wind
+veered, and allowed him to pass the Straits, ordered his boat, and went
+ashore.</p>
+
+<p>Although the town of Algeciras is very old, it is very small, badly
+built, and scantily populated; at this period, more especially, it
+only formed, as it were, a poor market town. It was not till after the
+English had seized Gibraltar, situated on the other side of the bay,
+that the Spaniards comprehended the importance of Algeciras to them,
+and have converted it into a regular port.</p>
+
+<p>The Captain had no other motive for landing at Algeciras, than the
+restlessness natural to sailors, which impels them to leave their
+vessel as soon as they have cast anchor.</p>
+
+<p>Commercial relations were not established at that time, as they now
+are. The government had not yet fallen into the custom of sending to
+foreign ports residents ordered to watch over their countrymen, and
+protect their transactions&mdash;in a word, consulates had not yet been
+created: only those ships of war, which accident might lead to any
+port, now and then undertook to procure justice for those of their
+countrymen, whose interests had been encroached on.</p>
+
+<p>After landing, and giving orders to his coxswain to come and fetch
+him at sunset, the Captain, merely followed by a sailor, of the name
+of Michael, to whom he was greatly attached, and who accompanied him
+everywhere, turned into the winding streets of Algeciras, curiously
+examining everything that offered itself to view.</p>
+
+<p>This Michael, to whom we shall have several occasions to refer, was a
+tall fellow, with an intelligent face, about thirty years of age, and
+who had vowed an eternal devotion to his captain since the day when the
+latter had risked his life in saving his, by jumping into a boat during
+a terrible storm four years before, to help him when he had fallen into
+the sea while going up the shrouds to ease the mainsail.</p>
+
+<p>Since that day Michael had never left the Count, and had always
+contrived to sail with him. Born in the vicinity of Pau, the country of
+Henri IV., he was like the king, his fellow countryman, gay, mocking,
+and even sceptical. An excellent sailor, endowed with tried bravery,
+and far from ordinary vigour, Michael offered in his person the
+perfect type of the Béarnaise Basque, a strong and rough, though loyal
+and faithful race.</p>
+
+<p>Only one individual shared in Michael's heart the unbounded friendship
+he felt for his chief. This privileged being was a Breton sailor,
+gloomy and taciturn, who formed a complete antithesis to him, and whom,
+owing to his slowness, the crew had favoured with the characteristic
+name of Bowline, which he had accepted, and was so accustomed to answer
+to it, that he had almost forgotten the name he previously bore.</p>
+
+<p>The service the Count had done Michael, the latter had rendered to
+Bowline: hence he was attached to the Breton through this very service,
+and while mocking and teasing him from morning till night, he had a
+sincere friendship for him.</p>
+
+<p>The Breton understood Michael, and so far as his reserved and slightly
+demonstrative nature permitted, he testified on every occasion his
+gratitude to the Basque, by letting himself be completely directed and
+governed by him in all the actions of his life, without ever attempting
+to revolt against the frequent exorbitant demands of his mentor.</p>
+
+<p>If we have dwelt so long on the character of these two men, it is
+because they are destined in the course of this work to play an
+important part; and the reader must be acquainted with them, in order
+to understand the facts we shall have to record.</p>
+
+<p>The Count and his sailor continued to advance along the streets,
+the one reflecting and amusing himself the other remaining, through
+respect, a few paces in the rear, and desperately smoking a pipe, whose
+stem was so short that the bowl almost touched his lips.</p>
+
+<p>While walking thus straight before them, the promenaders soon reached
+the end of the town, and turned into a lane bordered by aloes, which
+led, with a rather steep incline, to the top of a hill, whence could
+be enjoyed the entire panorama of the bay of Algeciras, which, we may
+remark in a parenthesis, is the finest in the world.</p>
+
+<p>It was about two in the afternoon, the hottest moment of the day. The
+sun profusely poured down its torrid beams, which made the pebbles in
+the road sparkle like diamonds.</p>
+
+<p>Hence everybody had gone within doors to enjoy the siesta, so that,
+since landing, the two sailors had not met a living creature; and if
+the Arabian Nights, which were not translated till a century later,
+had been known at the time, the Count, without any great effort of the
+imagination, might have believed himself transported to that city where
+all the inhabitants had been sent to sleep by a wicked impostor, so
+complete was the silence around him, while the landscape had the aspect
+of a desert. To complete the illusion, the breeze had fallen, there was
+not a breath of air, and the vast expanse of water stretched out at
+their feet was as motionless as if composed of ice.</p>
+
+<p>The Count stopped, pensively gazing with an absent eye at his frigate,
+which at this distance was scarce as large as a skiff.</p>
+
+<p>Michael smoked more than ever, and admired the country with straddling
+legs, and his arm behind his back, in that position so liked by sailors.</p>
+
+<p>"Hilloh!" he said suddenly.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter with you?" the Count asked him, as he turned round.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing the matter with me, Captain," he replied, "I am only looking
+at a lady who is coming up here at a gallop. What a fancy to go at
+that pace in such a heat as this."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is she?" asked the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, there, Captain," he said, stretching out his hand to larboard.</p>
+
+<p>The Count turned his eyes in the direction which Michael indicated to
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, that horse has bolted," he exclaimed, a moment later.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think so, Captain?" the sailor remarked, calmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds! I am certain of it. Look, now that she is nearer to us. The
+rider is clinging despairingly to the mane. The unhappy girl is lost!"</p>
+
+<p>"Very possibly," Michael said, philosophically.</p>
+
+<p>"Quick, quick, my lad!" the Captain shouted, as he rushed to the side
+where the horse was coming up. "We must save the lady, even if we
+perish!"</p>
+
+<p>The sailor made no answer; he merely took the precaution of withdrawing
+his pipe from his mouth and placing it in his pocket, and then he set
+out at a run behind his captain.</p>
+
+<p>The horse came on like a whirlwind. It was a barb of the purest
+Arab race, with a small head, and legs fine as spindles. It bounded
+furiously with all four legs on the narrow path it was following, with
+eyes full of flashes, and apparently snorting fire through its dilated
+nostrils. The lady on its back, half reclining on its neck, had seized
+its long mane with both hands, and, half insane with terror, as she
+felt herself lost, she uttered stifled cries at intervals.</p>
+
+<p>Very far in the rear, several horsemen, who formed almost imperceptible
+dots on the horizon, were coming up at full speed.</p>
+
+<p>The track on which the horse was engaged, was narrow and rocky, and led
+to a precipice of frightful depth, toward which the animal was dashing
+with a headlong speed.</p>
+
+<p>A man must either be mad, or endowed with a lion's courage, to try and
+save this unhappy woman under such conditions, when he had ninety-nine
+chances in a hundred of being crushed, without succeeding in rescuing
+her from death.</p>
+
+<p>The two sailors, however, made no reflections of this nature, and
+without hesitation resolved to make a supreme effort. They stood facing
+each other on either side of the track, and waited without exchanging a
+word. They understood one another.</p>
+
+<p>Two or three minutes elapsed, and then the horse passed like a tornado;
+but with the speed of thought the two men dashed forward, seized it by
+the bridle, and, hanging their whole weight on it, allowed themselves
+to be dragged onward by the furious animal.</p>
+
+<p>There was for a moment a terrible struggle between intelligence and
+brute strength. At length the brute was conquered. The horse stumbled,
+and fell panting on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>At the moment of its fall, the Count removed in his arms, the lady so
+miraculously saved, and he bore her to the side of the road, where he
+respectfully laid her down.</p>
+
+<p>Terror had certainly deprived her of consciousness.</p>
+
+<p>The Count guessing that the horsemen coming up, were relations or
+friends of her to whom he had just rendered so great a service,
+repaired the disorder in his clothes and awaited their arrival, while
+gazing admiringly at the young lady lying at his feet.</p>
+
+<p>She was a charming young creature, scarce seventeen years of age, with
+a delicate waist, and marked and adorably beautiful features; her long
+black silky hair had escaped from the comb that confined it and fell in
+perfumed curls over her face, on which a slight flush presaged a speedy
+return to life.</p>
+
+<p>The young lady's dress, which was very rich and remarkably elegant,
+would have led to the supposition that she was of high rank, had not
+the stamp of aristocracy, spread over her entire person, removed all
+doubts on that score.</p>
+
+<p>Michael, with his characteristic coolness which nothing ever upset,
+had remained by the side of the horse which, calmed by the fall and
+trembling in all its limbs, had allowed itself to be raised without
+offering the slightest resistance; the Basque after removing the
+saddle, had plucked a wisp of grass, and began rubbing the horse down,
+while admiring it, and muttering every now and then.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care, it's a noble and beautiful animal! It would have been
+a pity had it rolled over that frightful precipice; I am glad it is
+saved."</p>
+
+<p>The worthy sailor did not think the least bit in the world of the young
+lady, for his entire interest was concentrated on the horse.</p>
+
+<p>When he had finished rubbing down, he put the saddle and bridle on
+again and led the horse up to the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"There," he said with an air of satisfaction, "now the horse is calm;
+poor creature, a child could guide it with a thread."</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile the horsemen rapidly approached, and soon came up to
+the two French sailors.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>These horsemen were four in number. Two of them appeared to be persons
+of importance, the other two were domestics.</p>
+
+<p>On coming within a few steps of the Count, the first two dismounted,
+threw their bridles to the footman and advanced, hat in hand, towards
+the gentleman, whom they saluted with exquisite politeness.</p>
+
+<p>The Count courteously returned their greeting, while taking a
+side-glance at them.</p>
+
+<p>The first was a man of about sixty; he was tall, his demeanour was
+graceful and his face appeared handsome at the first glance, for the
+expression was imposing, although gentle and even kind. Still, on
+examining it with greater attention, it was possible to see from the
+gloomy fire of his glance, which seemed at times to emit magnetic
+flashes, that this gentleness was merely a mask intended to deceive the
+vulgar; his projecting cheek bones, his wide retiring forehead, his
+nose bent like a bird's beak and his square chin denoted a cold cruelty
+blended with a strong dose of obstinacy and pride.</p>
+
+<p>This man wore a handsome hunting dress covered with lace, and a heavy
+gold chain, called a <i>fanfaronne</i>, was passed several times round his
+ostrich plumed hat.</p>
+
+<p>This fanfaronne had been brought into fashion by the adventurers who
+returned from New Spain; and though very ridiculous, it had been
+enthusiastically adopted by the haughty Castilians.</p>
+
+<p>This gentleman's companion, much younger than he, but dressed quite
+as richly, had one of those faces whose features at the first glance
+appear so commonplace and insignificant, that you do not take the
+trouble of looking at them, and an observer might pass close by without
+seeing them, but his small grey eyes sparkling with cleverness, half
+hidden under bushy eyebrows, and the curl of his thin sarcastic lip,
+would have completely contradicted any physiognomist, who might take
+this person for a man of common intellect and ordinary capacity.</p>
+
+<p>The elder of the two riders bowed a second time.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir," he said, "I am the Duc de Peņaflor; the person whose life you
+have saved by running such a risk of losing your own, is my daughter,
+Doņa Clara de Peņaflor."</p>
+
+<p>As the Count came from Languedoc, he spoke Spanish as purely as his
+mother tongue.</p>
+
+<p>"I am delighted, sir," he replied with a graceful bow, "at having
+served as the instrument of providence to preserve a child for her
+father."</p>
+
+<p>"I think," the second rider observed, "that it would be as well to
+offer Doņa Clara some succour; my dear cousin seems to be seriously
+indisposed."</p>
+
+<p>"It is only emotion," the young man replied; "that caused this fainting
+fit, which, if I am not mistaken, is beginning to wear off."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes indeed," said the Duke, "I think I saw her make a slight movement,
+it will be better not to trouble her, but let her regain her senses
+quietly; in that way, we shall avoid a shock whose results are
+sometimes very dangerous to delicate and nervous organisations, like
+that of my dear child."</p>
+
+<p>All this was spoken with a cold, dry, steady voice, very different
+to what a father ought to have employed, whose daughter had just
+miraculously escaped death.</p>
+
+<p>The young officer did not know what to think of his real or feigned
+indifference.</p>
+
+<p>It was only Spanish hauteur. The Duke loved his daughter as much as his
+proud and ambitious nature allowed him to do, but he would have been
+ashamed to let it be seen, especially by a stranger.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir," the Duke resumed a moment later, as he stepped aside to display
+the gentlemen who accompanied him, "I have the honour of presenting to
+you my cousin and friend, Count Don Stenio de Bejar y Sousa."</p>
+
+<p>The two gentlemen bowed to each other.</p>
+
+<p>The Count had no motive to maintain an incognito, and saw that the
+moment had arrived to make himself known.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," he said, "I am Count Ludovic de Barmont Senectaire,
+Captain in the Navy, and commanding the French frigate the <i>Erigone</i>,
+now anchored in Algeciras Bay."</p>
+
+<p>On hearing the Count's name pronounced, the Duke's face turned
+frightfully pale; he frowned till his eyebrows joined, and he gave him
+a strangely meaning glance.</p>
+
+<p>But this emotion did not last longer than a flash: by a violent effort
+of the will the Spaniard thrust back to the bottom of his heart, the
+feelings that agitated him; his previous impassiveness returned to his
+face, and he bowed with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>The ice was broken between the three gentlemen, for they saw they were
+equals; their manner at once changed, and they became as affable as
+they had at first been stiff and reserved.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke was the first to renew the conversation in the most friendly
+voice.</p>
+
+<p>"You are doubtless taking advantage of the truce made a short time
+back, between our two nations, my lord, to visit our country?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, my lord Duke, I was not aware that hostilities had ceased
+between our two armies. I have been at sea for a long time, and without
+news of France; chance alone brought me to this coast a few hours ago,
+and I sought shelter in Algeciras Bay, to await a change of wind to
+pass the Straits."</p>
+
+<p>"I bless the accident, Count, since I owe to it my daughter's safety."</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara had opened her eyes, and, though still very weak, she was
+beginning to account for the position in which she found herself.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh," she said, in a soft and humorous voice, and with an inward
+shudder, "had it not been for that gentleman, I should be dead!"
+and she attempted to smile, while fixing on the young man her large
+eyes full of tears, with an expressive gratitude it is impossible to
+describe.</p>
+
+<p>"How do you feel, my daughter?" the Duke asked. "I am quite well, now,
+I thank you, papa," she replied; "when I felt that Moreno no longer
+obeyed the bit, and was running away, I believed myself lost, and
+terror caused me to faint; but where is my poor Moreno?" she added a
+moment after, "Has any misfortune happened to him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Reassure yourself, seņorita," the Count replied with a smile, and
+pointing to the horse, "here he is, all right, and quite calmed; if you
+like you can ride back on him without the slightest apprehension."</p>
+
+<p>"I certainly will mount my good Moreno," she said, "I bear him no ill
+will for his prank, although it nearly cost me dear."</p>
+
+<p>"My lord," the Duke then said, "I venture to hope that we shall not
+part thus, and that you will deign to accept the cordial hospitality
+which I offer you at my castle."</p>
+
+<p>"My time is not my own, unfortunately, my lord Duke, and duty demands
+my immediate presence on board. Be assured I deeply regret my inability
+to accept your kind offer."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you then expect to set sail so soon?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; on the contrary, I hope," he replied, laying a certain stress
+on the words, "to remain here some time longer."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case," the Duke remarked with a smile, "I do not consider
+myself beaten. I am certain we shall meet again soon, and become more
+intimate acquaintances."</p>
+
+<p>"That is my most eager desire, sir," the young man said, taking a side
+glance at Doņa Clara, who hung her head with a blush.</p>
+
+<p>The Count then took leave, and proceeded in the direction of Algeciras,
+while the horsemen slowly retired in exactly the opposite direction.</p>
+
+<p>The Captain walked on very thoughtfully, reflecting on the singular
+adventure of which he had so suddenly been the hero; recalling the
+slightest details, and admiring in memory the beauty of the young lady,
+whose life he had been so fortunate as to save.</p>
+
+<p>Being constantly absorbed by the thousand claims of his rude
+profession, and nearly always at sea, the Count, though almost
+twenty-five years of age, had never yet loved; he had not even thought
+about it; the few women he had hitherto met had produced no effect on
+his heart, his mind had always remained free in their presence, and no
+serious engagement had as yet disturbed its tranquillity. Hence it was
+with a certain terror mingled with astonishment, that while reflecting
+on the meeting which had suddenly interrupted his quiet walk, he
+perceived that the beauty of Doņa Clara and her gentle voice had left
+a powerful impression on his mind, that her image was ever present,
+and that his memory with implacable fidelity ever recalled even its
+apparently most indifferent details, the short interview he had had
+with her.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come," he said, shaking his head several times as if to drive
+away a troublesome thought; "I am mad."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Captain," said Michael, who took advantage of this exclamation,
+to give a free course to the reflections which he burned to express
+aloud, "I don't care, but you must confess it was very lucky all the
+same for that young lady, that we were there at the very nick of time."</p>
+
+<p>"Very lucky, indeed, Michael," the Count replied, delighted at this
+diversion; "had we not been there the unhappy young lady would have
+been lost."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, and hopelessly so; poor little thing."</p>
+
+<p>"What a frightful fate! So young, and so lovely."</p>
+
+<p>"I allow that she is well built, although I fancy her lines are a
+little too fine, and she is a trifle too pale." The Count smiled, but
+made no reply to the sailor's rather venturesome opinion.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, feeling himself encouraged, went on&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Will you allow me to give you a bit of advice, Captain?"</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, my lad? Speak without fear."</p>
+
+<p>"As for fear, deuce take me if I feel that, but I should not like to
+pain you."</p>
+
+<p>"Pain me, about what?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, all the worse, I must out with it. When you mentioned your name,
+Captain, to the old Duke&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, what happened?"</p>
+
+<p>"On hearing it pronounced, he suddenly turned as pale as a corpse; he
+frowned upon you so terrible a look that I fancied for a moment that he
+wished to assassinate you; don't you consider that funny, Captain?"</p>
+
+<p>"What you say is impossible; you are mistaken."</p>
+
+<p>"You did not notice it, because you had your head down, but I was
+looking at him without seeming to do so, and am quite certain about
+what I say."</p>
+
+<p>"But reflect, Michael, I do not know this nobleman, I never saw him
+before today; how can he possibly feel hatred for me; you are rambling,
+my good fellow."</p>
+
+<p>"Not at all, Captain, I am certain of what I state; whether you know
+him or not is no business of mine, but as for him, I will wager that he
+knows you, and intimately too; the impression you produced on him was
+too strong for it to be otherwise."</p>
+
+<p>"I will admit, if you like, that he knows me, but one thing I can
+certify, that I never offended him."</p>
+
+<p>"That is a point on which a man can never be sure, Captain; look you,
+I am a Basque, and have known the Spaniards for a long time; they are
+a strange people&mdash;proud as cocks, and rancorous as fiends; believe me,
+distrust them always; that can do no harm, and especially that old
+gentleman, who has a crafty face I do not like at all."</p>
+
+<p>"All that has no common sense, Michael, and I am as mad as yourself in
+listening to you."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," the sailor said with a toss of the head, "we shall see
+hereafter whether I am mistaken."</p>
+
+<p>The conversation ended here; still Michael's remarks occupied the
+Captain more than he would have liked to show, and he returned on board
+with a very thoughtful air. On the next morning at about ten o'clock an
+excellent pleasure yacht hailed the frigate.</p>
+
+<p>This vessel contained the Duc de Peņaflor, and his silent cousin, Count
+de Bejar y Sousa.</p>
+
+<p>"On my faith, my dear Count," the Duke said, good-humouredly, after the
+first compliments, "you are going to find me very unceremonious, for I
+have come to carry you off."</p>
+
+<p>"Carry me off?" the young man replied with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"On my word, yes. Just imagine, Count, my daughter insists on seeing
+you; she only speaks of you, and as she does pretty well what she
+pleases with me&mdash;a thing that will not surprise you greatly. She sent
+me to you to tell you that you must absolutely accompany me to the
+castle."</p>
+
+<p>"So it is," Don Stenio said with a bow, "the Seņorita Doņa Clara
+insists on seeing you."</p>
+
+<p>"Still&mdash;" the other objected.</p>
+
+<p>"I will listen to nothing," the Duke remarked quickly, "you must make
+up your mind, my dear Count, you can only obey, for you are aware that
+ladies cannot be thwarted; so come, reassure yourself, though, I am not
+going to take you far, for my castle is scarce two leagues from here."</p>
+
+<p>The Count, who in his heart, felt a lively desire to see Doņa Clara
+again, did not allow himself to be pressed one bit more than was
+correct: then, after giving the necessary orders to his second in
+command, he accompanied the Duc de Peņaflor, followed by Michael, who
+seemed to be the Captain's shade.</p>
+
+<p>This was the way in which began a connection which was soon to
+be changed into love, and have, at a later date, such terrible
+consequences for the unhappy officer.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke and his eternal cousin who never quitted him, overwhelmed
+the Count with protestations of friendship, granted him the most
+perfect liberty at the castle, and appeared not at all to notice the
+intelligence which was soon established between Doņa Clara and the
+young man.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, completely subjugated by the passion he experienced for the
+young lady, yielded to his love with the confident and unreflecting
+abandonment of all hearts that love for the first time.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara, a simple girl, brought up with all the rigid strictness of
+Spanish manners, but an Andalusian from head to foot, had listened with
+a quiver of delight to the confession of this love which she had shared
+from the first moment.</p>
+
+<p>Everybody, therefore, was happy at the castle; Michael alone formed
+an exception, with his stolid face, which was never unwrinkled; the
+more rapidly he saw matters tending to the conclusion the young people
+desired, the more gloomy and anxious he became.</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile the frigate had left Algeciras for Cadiz.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke, his daughter, and Don Stenio had made the passage on board;
+the Duc de Peņaflor wanted to go to Seville, where he had large
+estates, hence he accepted with eager demonstrations of joy the
+proposal the Count made him, of conveying him on board his frigate to
+Cadiz, which is only some twenty leagues from Seville.</p>
+
+<p>On the day after the frigate's arrival at Cadiz, the Captain put on his
+full uniform, went ashore, and proceeded to the Duke's palace.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke, doubtless warned of his visit, received him with a smile on
+his lips, and with a most affectionate air.</p>
+
+<p>Emboldened by this reception, the Count, overcoming his timidity,
+requested leave to marry Doņa Clara.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke received it favourably; said that he had expected this
+request, and that it satisfied all his wishes, since it caused the
+happiness of a daughter he loved.</p>
+
+<p>"Still," he remarked to the Count, "although there was a truce between
+the two countries, a peace was not yet signed. Though, according to all
+appearance it would be soon carried out, for all that, he feared lest
+the news of this marriage might injure the Count's future, by rendering
+the Cardinal ill disposed toward him."</p>
+
+<p>This reflection had several times offered itself to the young officer's
+mind; hence he hung his head, not daring to reply, because, unluckily,
+he had no valid reason to offer, that would remove the Duke's
+objections.</p>
+
+<p>The latter came to his assistance by saying that there was a very
+simple way of arranging matters to the general satisfaction, and
+removing this apparently insurmountable difficulty.</p>
+
+<p>The Count quivering with fear and pleasure, asked what this method was.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke then explained to him that he meant a secret marriage. As
+long as the war lasted, silence would be maintained, but once peace
+was concluded and an ambassador sent to Paris, the marriage should be
+publicly announced to the Cardinal, who then would probably not feel
+offended by the union.</p>
+
+<p>The young man had been too near seeing his dream of bliss eternally
+destroyed to raise the slightest objection to this proposition; secret
+or not, the marriage would not be the less valid and he cared little
+for the rest. Hence he consented to all the conditions imposed on him
+by the Duke, who insisted that the marriage might be effected in such
+a way as to keep him in ignorance of it, so that in the event of his
+Eminence attempting to turn the King against him, he might employ this
+pretended ignorance in foiling the ill will of those who might attempt
+to ruin him.</p>
+
+<p>The Count did not exactly understand what the King of Spain had to do
+with his marriage; but as the Duke spoke with an air of conviction, and
+seemed to be greatly alarmed about the King's displeasure, he consented
+to everything.</p>
+
+<p>Two days later at nightfall, the young couple were married at the
+Church of la Merced, by a priest, who consented for a heavy sum to lend
+his ministration to this illegal act.</p>
+
+<p>Michael the Basque and Bowline served as witnesses of the captain, who,
+on the pressing recommendation of the Duke, was unwilling to let any of
+his officers into his secrets, while he was sure of the silence of the
+two sailors.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately after the ceremony, the new bride was taken off on one side
+by her witnesses, while her husband withdrew greatly annoyed on the
+other, and went aboard the frigate.</p>
+
+<p>When the Count on the next morning presented himself at the Duke's
+palace, the latter informed him that, in order to remove any pretext
+for malevolence, he had thought it advisable to send away his daughter
+for a while, and she had gone to stay with a relation residing at
+Grenada.</p>
+
+<p>The Count did not allow his disappointment to be seen; he withdrew,
+pretending to accept as gospel the somewhat specious reasoning of the
+Duke.</p>
+
+<p>Still, he was beginning to find the Duke's conduct towards him very
+extraordinary, and he resolved to clear up the doubts that arose in his
+mind.</p>
+
+<p>Michael and Bowline were sent into the country to reconnoitre.</p>
+
+<p>The Count learned from them, not without surprise, at the end of two
+days' researches that Doņa Clara was not at Grenada, but merely at
+Puerto Santa Maria, a charming little town facing Cadiz on the opposite
+side of the road.</p>
+
+<p>The Captain, so soon as he possessed the information for the success
+of the plan he meditated, managed by the intervention of Michael, who
+spoke Spanish like an Andalusian, to send a note to Doņa Clara, and at
+nightfall, followed by his two faithful sailors, he landed at Santa
+Maria.</p>
+
+<p>The house inhabited by the young lady was rather isolated; he set the
+two sailors on sentry to watch over her safety, and walked straight up
+to the house.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara herself opened the door for him. The joy of the couple was
+immense, and the Count retired shortly before sunrise; at about ten
+o'clock, he went as usual to pay a visit to his father-in-law, in
+whose presence he continued to feign the most complete ignorance as to
+Doņa Clara's abode, and was most kindly welcomed.</p>
+
+<p>This state of things went on for nearly a month. One day the Count
+suddenly received information of the resumption of the hostilities
+between Spain and France; he was himself forced to quit Cadiz, but
+wished to have a final interview with the Duke, in order to ask him for
+a frank explanation of his conduct; in the event of this explanation
+not satisfying him, he was resolved to carry his wife off.</p>
+
+<p>When he arrived at the Duke's palace, a confidential servant informed
+him that his master, suddenly summoned by the king, had started an hour
+previously to Madrid, without, to his great regret, having had time to
+take leave of him.</p>
+
+<p>On hearing this, the Count had a presentiment of evil; he turned pale,
+but succeeded in overcoming his emotion, and calmly asked the valet
+whether his master had not left a letter for him; the servant answered
+in the affirmative and handed him a sealed note.</p>
+
+<p>The Count broke the seal with a trembling hand and ran through the
+letter, but his emotion was so great on perusing the contents that he
+tottered, and had not the valet sprang forward to support him, he would
+have fallen to the ground.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" he muttered, "Michael was right," and he crumpled the paper
+savagely.</p>
+
+<p>But suddenly recovering himself, he overcame his grief and, after
+giving the valet several louis, hurried away.</p>
+
+<p>"Poor young man!" the valet muttered with a sorrowful shake of the head
+and re-entered the palace, the gates of which he closed after him.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>DESPAIR.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>A few yards from the palace the Count met Michael, who was coming
+towards him.</p>
+
+<p>"A boat, quick, quick, my good Michael," he shouted, "'tis a matter of
+life and death."</p>
+
+<p>The sailor, terrified at the condition in which he saw his commandant,
+wished to ask him what the matter was, but the Count roughly imposed
+silence on him by repeating his order to procure a boat at once.</p>
+
+<p>Michael bowed his head.</p>
+
+<p>"Woe is me. I foresaw this," he muttered, with mingled grief and anger,
+and he ran off towards the port.</p>
+
+<p>It is not a difficult task to find a boat at Cadiz, and Michael had
+only to choose; comprehending that the Count was in a hurry, he
+selected one pulled by ten oars.</p>
+
+<p>The Count arrived at the same moment.</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty louis for you and your crew if you are at Puerto in twenty
+minutes," he shouted, as he leaped into the boat, which was almost
+capsized by the violence of the shock.</p>
+
+<p>The boat started, the sailors bent over their oars, and made her fly
+through the water.</p>
+
+<p>The captain with his eyes obstinately fixed on Santa Maria, and
+striking his clenched fist on the boat's gunwale, in spite of the
+excessive speed at which it was going, incessantly repeated in a
+choking voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Quicker, quicker, muchachos."</p>
+
+<p>He passed like an arrow across the bows of the frigate, whose crew were
+preparing to weigh anchor. At length they reached Puerto.</p>
+
+<p>"No one is to follow me," the captain cried, as he leaped ashore.</p>
+
+<p>But Michael did not heed this order, and at the risk of what might
+happen to him, he set out in pursuit of the Count, whom he would not
+abandon in his present frightful condition.</p>
+
+<p>It was fortunate he did so, for when he reached the house Doņa Clara
+had inhabited, he saw the young man lying senseless on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>The house was deserted, and Doņa Clara had disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>The sailor took his captain on his shoulders and conveyed him to the
+boat, where he laid him as comfortably as he could in the stem sheets.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are we going?" the master asked.</p>
+
+<p>"To the French frigate; and make haste," Michael replied.</p>
+
+<p>When the boat was alongside the frigate, Michael paid the master the
+promised reward, and then aided by several of the crew, conveyed the
+captain to his cabin. As it was eminently necessary to keep the Count's
+secret, and avoid arousing suspicions, the sailor in his report to
+the first commandant, ascribed to a violent fall from a horse, the
+condition in which the captain was; then, after making a signal to
+Bowline to follow him, he returned to the cabin.</p>
+
+<p>M. de Barmont was still as motionless as if he were dead; the chief
+surgeon of the frigate in vain bestowed the greatest care on him
+without succeeding in recalling life, which seemed to have fled forever.</p>
+
+<p>"Send away your assistants; Bowline and myself will suffice," Michael
+said to the doctor, with a meaning glance.</p>
+
+<p>The surgeon comprehended, and dismissed the mates. When the door had
+closed on them the sailor drew the doctor into a gun berth, and said to
+him, in so low a voice as to be scarce audible&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Major, the Commandant has just experienced a great sorrow, which
+produced the terrible crisis he is suffering from at this moment. I
+confide this to you because a surgeon is like a confessor."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, my lad," the surgeon replied; "the Captain's secret has
+been trusted to sure ears."</p>
+
+<p>"I am convinced of that, Major; the officers and crew must suppose that
+the Captain has been thrown from his horse, you understand. I have
+already told the lieutenant so in making the report."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; I will corroborate your statement, my lad."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, Major; now I have another thing to ask of you."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak."</p>
+
+<p>"You must obtain the lieutenant's leave that no one but Bowline and
+myself may wait on the Captain. Look you, Major, we are old sailors of
+his, he can say what he likes before us; and then, too, he will be glad
+to have us near him; will you get this leave from the lieutenant?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lad; I know that you are a good fellow, sincerely attached to
+the Captain, and that he places entire confidence in you; hence, do not
+feel alarmed&mdash;I will settle that with the lieutenant, and you and your
+companion shall alone come in here with me so long as the Captain is
+ill."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, Major; if an opportunity offers itself I will repay you this;
+on the faith of a Basque, you are a worthy man."</p>
+
+<p>The surgeon began laughing.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us return to our patient," he said, in order to cut short the
+conversation.</p>
+
+<p>In spite of the intelligent care the doctor paid him the Count's
+fainting fit lasted the whole day.</p>
+
+<p>"The shock was frightful," he said&mdash;"it was almost a congestion."</p>
+
+<p>It was not till night, when the frigate had been for a long time at
+sea, and had left Cadiz roads far behind it, that a favourable crisis
+set in, and the Captain became slightly better.</p>
+
+<p>"He is about to regain his senses," the doctor said.</p>
+
+<p>In fact, a few convulsive movements agitated the Count's body, and he
+half-opened his eyes; but his glances were wild and absent; he looked
+all around him, as if trying to discover where he was, and why he was
+thus lying on his bed.</p>
+
+<p>The three men, with their eyes fixed on him, anxiously watched this
+return to life, whose appearance was anything but reassuring to them.</p>
+
+<p>The surgeon, more especially, seemed restless; big forehead was
+wrinkled, and his eyebrows met, through the effort of some internal
+emotion.</p>
+
+<p>All at once the Count hurriedly sat up, and addressed Michael, who was
+standing by his side.</p>
+
+<p>"Lieutenant," he said to him, in a quick, sharp voice, "let her fall
+off a point, or else the Spanish vessel will escape&mdash;why have you not
+beat to quarters, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>The surgeon gave Michael a sign.</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon, Commandant," the latter replied, humouring the sick man's
+fancy, "we have beaten to quarters, and the tops are all manned."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," he answered; then suddenly changing his ideas, he
+muttered&mdash;"She will come, she promised it me. But no, she will not
+come; she is dead to me henceforth&mdash;dead! dead!" he repeated, in a
+hollow voice, with different intonations; then he uttered a piercing
+cry&mdash;"Oh, heaven! How I suffer!" he exclaimed, bursting into sobs,
+while a torrent of tears inundated his face.</p>
+
+<p>He buried his head in his hands, and fell back on his bed.</p>
+
+<p>The two sailors anxiously examined the surgeon's impassive face, trying
+to read in his features what they had to hope or fear.</p>
+
+<p>The latter uttered a deep sigh of relief, passed his hand over his damp
+forehead, and turning to Michael, said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven be praised! He sheds tears&mdash;he is saved."</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven be praised!" the sailors repeated, crossing themselves devoutly.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think he is mad, Major?" Michael asked, in a trembling voice.</p>
+
+<p>"No, it is not madness, but delirium; he will soon fall asleep&mdash;do not
+leave him; when he awakes he will remember nothing. If he ask for drink
+give him the potion I have prepared, and which is on that table."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Major."</p>
+
+<p>"Now I am going to retire; if any unforeseen accident occur, warn me at
+once; but, in any case, I shall look in again tonight."</p>
+
+<p>The surgeon left the cabin; his previsions were soon realised, M. de
+Barmont gradually fell into a calm and peaceful sleep.</p>
+
+<p>The two sailors stood motionless by his bedside; no nurse could have
+watched a patient with greater care and more delicate attention than
+did these two men, whose exterior seemed so hard, but whose hearts were
+really so kind.</p>
+
+<p>The whole night passed away thus; the surgeon had come in several
+times, but after a few minutes' examination he withdrew with an air of
+satisfaction, and laying a finger on his lips.</p>
+
+<p>About morning, at the first sunbeam that entered the cabin, the Count
+made a slight movement, opened his eyes, and slightly turned his head.</p>
+
+<p>"My good Michael, give me some drink," he said, in a feeble voice.</p>
+
+<p>The sailor handed him a glass.</p>
+
+<p>"I feel crushed," he muttered; "have I been ill?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, a little," the sailor replied; "but now it is all over, thank
+heaven! You need only have patience."</p>
+
+<p>"I feel the motion of the frigate&mdash;are we under weigh?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Commandant."</p>
+
+<p>"And who gave the orders?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yourself, last night."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" he remarked, as he handed back the glass. His head fell heavily
+on the pillow again, and he was silent.</p>
+
+<p>Still, he did not sleep; his eyes were opened, and gazed anxiously all
+around.</p>
+
+<p>"I remember," he murmured, while two tears welled in his eyes; then he
+suddenly addressed Michael.</p>
+
+<p>"It was you who picked me up and brought me aboard?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Captain, 'twas."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks! and yet it would have perhaps been better to leave me to die."</p>
+
+<p>The sailor shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.</p>
+
+<p>"That is a fine idea, strike me!" he grumbled.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, if you only knew," he said, sorrowfully.</p>
+
+<p>"I knew all; did I not warn you of it the first day?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; I ought to have believed you&mdash;but, alas! I already loved
+her."</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds! I knew that, and she deserved it."</p>
+
+<p>"Does she still love me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Who can doubt it, poor dear creature?"</p>
+
+<p>"You are a good man, Michael."</p>
+
+<p>"I am just."</p>
+
+<p>There was another silence.</p>
+
+<p>At the expiration of a few minutes the Count renewed the conversation.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you find the letter?" he asked. "Where is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Here," he said, as he handed it to him.</p>
+
+<p>The Count eagerly clutched it.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you read it?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"For what purpose?" said Michael. "Zounds, it must be a tissue of lies
+and infamies! And I am not curious about reading such things."</p>
+
+<p>"There, take it," said the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"To tear it up?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, to read it."</p>
+
+<p>"What's the good?"</p>
+
+<p>"You must know the contents of the letter&mdash;I order it."</p>
+
+<p>"That is different&mdash;give it here."</p>
+
+<p>He took the letter, opened, and ran through it.</p>
+
+<p>"Read it aloud," said the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"That is a pretty job you give me, Commandant. Still, as you wish it, I
+must obey you."</p>
+
+<p>"I implore you, Michael."</p>
+
+<p>"Enough, Captain."</p>
+
+<p>And he began reading the strange missive aloud.</p>
+
+<p>It was short and laconic, but on that very account it necessarily
+produced a more terrible effect, because every word was carefully
+chosen to go straight home.</p>
+
+<p>The following was its tenor:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>MY LORD,</p>
+
+<p>You have not married my daughter: I defrauded you by a false marriage.
+You shall never see her again&mdash;she is dead to you. For many years there
+has been an implacable hatred between your family and mine. I should
+not have gone to seek you, but Heaven itself brought you in my way. I
+understood that it was desired I should avenge myself, and I obeyed.
+I believe that I have succeeded in breaking your heart forever. The
+love you have for my daughter is sincere and deep. All the better, for
+you will suffer the more cruelly. Farewell, my lord. Believe me, you
+had better not try to find me, for, if you succeed, my vengeance will
+be even more terrible. My daughter will marry in a month the man she
+loves, and whom alone she has ever loved.</p>
+
+<p>"Don Estevan de Sylva, Duc de Peņaflor."</p>
+
+<p>When the sailor had finished reading he turned an enquiring glance to
+his chief. The latter shook his head several times, but made no other
+reply.</p>
+
+<p>Michael handed back the letter, which the Captain at once concealed
+beneath his pillow.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you intend to do?" the sailor asked him, a moment after.</p>
+
+<p>"You shall know hereafter," the Count answered, in a hollow voice. "I
+could not form a determination now, for my head is still heavy, and I
+require to reflect."</p>
+
+<p>Michael gave a nod of assent.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment the doctor came in. He appeared delighted at seeing his
+patient in so good a state, and with a joyous rubbing of his hands,
+promised that he should leave his bed in a week at the latest.</p>
+
+<p>In fact, the surgeon was not mistaken, for the Count rapidly recovered;
+ere long he was able to rise, and at the end of a few days, were it
+not for a cadaverous pallor spread over his face, and which he ever
+retained, his strength seemed to have entirely come back to him.</p>
+
+<p>M. de Barmont steered his frigate up the Tagus, and anchored before
+Lisbon. So soon as the vessel was moored the Captain summoned the
+second in command to his cabin, and had a long conversation with him,
+after which he went ashore with Michael and Bowline.</p>
+
+<p>The frigate remained under the command of the first lieutenant: the
+Count had abandoned it for ever.</p>
+
+<p>This deed almost constituted a desertion; but M. de Barmont was
+resolved on returning to Cadiz at all hazards.</p>
+
+<p>During the few days that had elapsed since his conference with Michael,
+the Count had reflected, as he promised the sailor.</p>
+
+<p>The result of his reflections was, that Doņa Clara had been deceived
+by the Duke like himself, and believed herself really married&mdash;indeed,
+the whole of the young lady's behaviour to him proved the fact. In
+desiring to insure his vengeance too thoroughly, the Duke had gone
+beyond his object: Doņa Clara loved him, he felt certain of that. She
+had only obeyed her father under the constraint of force.</p>
+
+<p>This admitted, only one thing was left the Count to do; to return
+to Cadiz, collect information, find the Duke, and have a solemn
+explanation with him in his daughter's presence.</p>
+
+<p>This plan drawn up in his mind, the young man immediately set, about
+carrying it out, leaving the command of his vessel to the lieutenant,
+at the risk of destroying his career and being pursued as a traitor, as
+the war was raging between France and Spain. He freighted a coaster;
+and, followed by his two sailors, to whom he had frankly explained his
+intention, but who would not leave him, he returned to Cadiz.</p>
+
+<p>Thanks to the thorough knowledge of Spanish he possessed, the Count did
+not arouse any suspicions in that city, where it was easy for him to
+obtain the information he desired.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke had really set out for Madrid. The Count at once proceeded
+to that city. A gentleman of the importance of the Duc de Peņaflor,
+a grandee of Spain of the first class, a <i>caballero cubierto</i>, could
+not travel without leaving traces, especially when nothing led him to
+suspect that he was followed. Hence the Count had not the slightest
+difficulty in discovering the route he had taken, and he arrived
+at Madrid, persuaded that he should soon have with the Duke the
+explanation he so ardently desired.</p>
+
+<p>But his hopes were foiled. The Duke, after being honored with a private
+audience by the King, had set out for Barcelona.</p>
+
+<p>Fatality interfered, but the Count would not be baffled: he mounted his
+horse, crossed Spain, and arrived at Barcelona.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke had embarked for Naples on the previous day.</p>
+
+<p>This pursuit was assuming the proportions of an Odyssey: it seemed as
+if the Duke felt that he was being pursued.</p>
+
+<p>It was not so, however. He was carrying out a mission with which his
+sovereign had entrusted him.</p>
+
+<p>The Count made enquiries, and learnt that the Duc de Peņaflor was
+accompanied by his daughter, and two sons.</p>
+
+<p>Two days later, M. de Barmont was sailing to Naples, on board a
+smuggling vessel.</p>
+
+<p>We will not enter into all the details of this obstinate pursuit, which
+lasted for several months.</p>
+
+<p>We will confine ourselves to saying that the Count missed the Duke
+at Naples, as he had missed him at Madrid and Barcelona, and that he
+traversed the whole of Italy, and entered France, still in chase of his
+intangible enemy, who seemed to fly before him.</p>
+
+<p>But during the interval, although the Count did not suspect, the parts
+had been greatly modified, if not completely changed.</p>
+
+<p>In this way.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke had a great interest in knowing what the Count would do.
+Though it was certain that the war would compel him to leave Spain,
+still he was too well acquainted with the young man's resolute and
+determined character to suppose for a moment that he would accept the
+insult offered him, without trying to take a startling revenge.</p>
+
+<p>In consequence, he had left at Cadiz a confidential man with orders to
+watch the Count's movements with the greatest care, in the event of his
+reappearing, and to warn the Duke of what steps he might take.</p>
+
+<p>The man had conscientiously and most skilfully discharged the delicate
+duty entrusted to him, and while the Count was pursuing the Duke, he
+pursued the Count, never letting him out of sight, stopping when he
+stopped, and setting out behind him directly he saw him start.</p>
+
+<p>When at last he felt assured that the Count was really after his
+master, he got ahead of him, rejoined the Duke, whom he came up with
+in the neighbourhood of Pignerol, and reported to him all that he had
+learned.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke, though internally terrified by the hateful persistency of
+his enemy, pretended to attach but very slight importance to this
+communication, and smiled contemptuously on listening to his servant's
+report.</p>
+
+<p>But, for all this, he did not neglect to take his precautions; and, as
+peace was on the point of being signed, and a Spanish plenipotentiary
+was in Paris, he sent off the same valet to him at full speed, with a
+pressing letter.</p>
+
+<p>This letter was a formal denunciation of the Count de Barmont
+Senectaire.</p>
+
+<p>Cardinal de Richelieu raised no difficulty about granting an order
+to arrest the Count, and police agents of his Eminence, commanded by
+Franįois Bouillot, left Paris in pursuit of the unhappy officer.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, completely ignorant of what was going on, had continued
+his journey, and even gained ground on the Duke, who, persuaded that
+henceforth he would have nothing to fear from his enemy, as the latter
+would be arrested before he could come up with him, now travelled by
+easy stages.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke's calculations were false, however. He had not reflected that
+the Cardinal's guards, not knowing where to find the man whom they had
+orders to arrest, and obliged to feel their way, would be compelled to
+almost double their journey: and this really occurred.</p>
+
+<p>Moreover, as, with the exception of Bouillot, not one of them was
+personally acquainted with the Count, and he, as we now know, desired
+nothing so much as the Count's escape, he passed through the midst
+of them unsuspected, which occasioned them a great loss of time, by
+compelling them to turn back.</p>
+
+<p>We have already narrated how, after the stormy explanation which took
+place between father-in-law and son-in-law, the latter was arrested,
+taken by Bouillot to the Isle St. Marguerite, and delivered over
+to Major de l'Oursičre. And now that we have fully explained the
+respective positions of each of our characters, we will resume our
+narrative at the point where we left it.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE PRISONER.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>We have mentioned that after proof of identity, and perusal of the
+order of arrest, Major de l'Oursičre, governor of the fortress of St.
+Marguerite, had the Count conducted to the room which was to serve as
+his prison, until the day when it might please the Cardinal to restore
+him to liberty.</p>
+
+<p>This room, very spacious and lofty, of an octagonal shape, and with
+whitewashed walls, fifteen feet thick, was only lighted by two narrow
+loopholes, covered with an under and outer iron trelliswork, which
+completely prevented any looking out.</p>
+
+<p>A large chimney, with a wide mantelpiece, occupied one corner of the
+room: facing was a bed, composed of a thin palliasse and a narrow
+mattress laid on a deal bedstead, formerly painted yellow, though time
+had completely removed the colour.</p>
+
+<p>A rickety table, a stool, a chair, a night commode, and an iron
+candlestick, completed the furniture, which was more than modest.</p>
+
+<p>This room was situated on the highest floor of the tower, the platform
+of which, where a sentry tramped day and night, served as the ceiling.</p>
+
+<p>The soldier drew the bolts that garnished the iron-lined door of this
+room. The Count entered, with a firm step.</p>
+
+<p>After taking a glance at these cold, sad walls, destined henceforward
+to serve him as a habitation, he sat down on a chair, crossed his arms
+on his breast, hung his head, and began to reflect.</p>
+
+<p>The soldier, or rather gaoler, who had gone out, returned an hour
+later, and found him in the same position.</p>
+
+<p>He brought with him sheets, blankets, and wood to light a fire. Behind
+him two soldiers carried the portmanteau containing the prisoner's
+clothes and linen, which they placed in a corner, and retired.</p>
+
+<p>The gaoler at once set to work making the bed. Then he swept the room
+and lit the fire. When these different duties were accomplished, he
+approached the prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>"My lord?" he said to him politely.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want with me, my friend?" the Count answered, raising his
+head and looking at him gently.</p>
+
+<p>"The governor of the castle desires the honour of an interview with
+you, as he says he has an important communication to make."</p>
+
+<p>"I am at the governor's orders," the Count said laconically.</p>
+
+<p>The gaoler bowed and went out.</p>
+
+<p>"What can the man want with me?" the Count muttered, so soon as he was
+alone.</p>
+
+<p>He had not long to wait, for the door opened again and the governor
+made his appearance.</p>
+
+<p>The prisoner rose to receive him, bowed, and then silently waited for
+him to speak.</p>
+
+<p>The Major made the gaoler a sign to withdraw, and then, after a fresh
+bow, he said with cold politeness,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"My lord Count, gentlemen should respect each other. Although
+the orders I have received on your account from the Cardinal are
+very strict, I still desire to shew you any attention that is not
+incompatible with my duty. I have, therefore, come to you frankly in
+order to have an understanding on the subject."</p>
+
+<p>The Count guessed to what this speech tended, but did not let it be
+seen, and answered,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Governor, I am grateful, as I ought to be, for the steps you
+have been kind enough to take; may I ask you, therefore, to have the
+goodness to explain to me the nature of your orders, and what the
+favours are by which you can alleviate their severity. But, in the
+first place, as I am at home here," he added, with a melancholy smile;
+"do me the honour of seating yourself."</p>
+
+<p>The Major bowed, but remained standing.</p>
+
+<p>"It is unnecessary, my lord," he remarked, "as what I have to say to
+you is very short; in the first place, you will observe that I have had
+the delicacy to send you the trunk containing your effects unexamined
+as I had the right to do."</p>
+
+<p>"I allow the fact, Major, and feel obliged; to you for it."</p>
+
+<p>The Major bowed.</p>
+
+<p>"As you are an officer, my lord," he said, "you are aware that his
+Eminence the Cardinal, although he is a great man, is not very liberal
+to officers whose infirmity or wounds compel them to quit the service."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true."</p>
+
+<p>"The governors of fortresses more especially, although nominated by the
+King, being obliged to pay a long price to their predecessors for the
+office, are reduced to a perfect state of want, if they have not saved
+up some money."</p>
+
+<p>"I was not aware of that circumstance, sir, and fancied that the
+governorship of a fortress was a reward."</p>
+
+<p>"So it is, my lord, but we have to pay for the command of fortresses
+like this, which are employed as state prisons."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Very good."</p>
+
+<p>"You understand, it is supposed that the governor makes a profit by the
+prisoners intrusted to his keeping."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course, sir; are there at present many unhappy men who have
+incurred the displeasure of His Eminence detained in this castle?"</p>
+
+<p>"Alas, sir, you are the only one, and that is exactly the reason why I
+desire to have an amicable settlement with you."</p>
+
+<p>"For my part, be assured, sir, that I desire nothing more earnestly."</p>
+
+<p>"I am convinced of that, and hence will discuss the question frankly."</p>
+
+<p>"Do so, sir, do so; I am listening to you with the most serious
+attention."</p>
+
+<p>"I have orders, sir, not to let you communicate with anyone but your
+gaoler, to give you neither books, papers, pens, or ink, and never to
+allow you to quit this room; it appears there is great fear of your
+escape from here, and his Eminence is anxious to keep you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am extremely obliged to his Eminence, but luckily for me," the Count
+answered with a smile, "instead of having to deal with a gaoler, I am
+dependent on a true soldier, who, while strictly obeying his orders,
+considers it unnecessary to torture a prisoner already so unhappy as to
+have fallen into disgrace with the King and the Cardinal minister."</p>
+
+<p>"You have judged me correctly, my lord, though the orders are so
+strict. I command alone in this castle, where I have no control to
+fear. Hence I hope to have it in my power to relax the rigor I am
+commanded to show you."</p>
+
+<p>"Whatever may be your intention in that respect, allow me, sir, in
+my turn to speak like a frank and loyal sailor. As prisoner of your
+King, doubtless for a very long time, money is perfectly useless to
+me; though not rich, I enjoy a certain ease, on which I congratulate
+myself, as this ease permits me to requite any polite attentions you
+may show me; service for service, sir, I will give you every year
+10,000 livres, paid in advance; and, on your side, will you allow me to
+procure, at my own charges of course, all the objects susceptible of
+alleviating my captivity."</p>
+
+<p>The Major felt as if about to faint. The old officer of fortune had
+never in his whole life possessed so large a sum.</p>
+
+<p>The Count continued without seeming to notice the effect his words
+produced on the governor.</p>
+
+<p>"Well then, that is quite understood. To the sum the King pays you
+for my board, we will add 200 livres a month, or 2,400 per annum, for
+papers, pens, ink, &amp;c., suppose we say the round sum of 3,000 livres,
+does that suit you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, Sir, it is too much, a great deal too much."</p>
+
+<p>"No, Sir, since I assist an honourable man, who will owe me thanks for
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! I shall be eternally grateful, sir; but, do not be angry with my
+frankness, you will oblige me to offer up vows to keep you as long as
+possible."</p>
+
+<p>"Who knows, sir, whether my departure will not some day be more
+advantageous than my stay here?" he said with a meaning smile; "be good
+enough to lend me your tablets."</p>
+
+<p>The Major offered them to him.</p>
+
+<p>The Count tore out a leaf, with a few pencilled words on it, and handed
+it back to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Here," he said, "is a draught for 16,000 livres, which you can receive
+at sight from Messrs. Dubois, Loustal, and Co., of Toulon, whenever you
+have leisure."</p>
+
+<p>The governor clutched the paper with a start of joy.</p>
+
+<p>"But it seems to me that this draft is 800 livres in excess of the sum
+agreed on between us?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"That is correct, sir, but the 800 livres are for the purchase of
+different articles, of which here is the list, and which I must ask you
+to procure for me."</p>
+
+<p>"You shall have them tomorrow, my lord," and after bowing very low the
+governor walked backwards out of the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Come," the Count muttered gaily, when the heavy door had closed on
+the Major; "I was not deceived, I judged that man correctly, and his
+is really perfect, but his most thoroughly developed vice is decidedly
+avarice; I can make something of it, I fancy, when I like, but I must
+not go ahead too fast, but act with the greatest prudence."</p>
+
+<p>Certain of not being disturbed, at least for some hours, the Count
+opened the trunk brought in by the two soldiers, in order to convince
+himself whether the governor had told him the truth, and the contents
+were really intact.</p>
+
+<p>The trunk had not been examined.</p>
+
+<p>In the foresight of a probable arrest, the Count when he started in
+pursuit of the Duc de Peņaflor, had purchased several objects which he
+found again with the most lively satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>In addition to a certain quantity of clothes and linen, the trunk
+contained a very fine and strong silk cord, nearly one hundred fathoms
+in length, two pairs of pistols, a dagger, a sword, powder and bullets,
+objects which the governor would have confiscated without any scruple,
+had he seen them, and which the Count had laid in at all risks,
+trusting to chance.</p>
+
+<p>There were also several iron and steel tools, and concealed in a double
+bottom, a very heavy purse containing the sum of 25,000 livres in
+gold, in addition to another almost equally large amount in Spanish
+quadruples sewn into a wide leathern belt.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as the Count was certain that the Major had told him the truth,
+he carefully locked the trunk again, hung the key round his neck by a
+steel chain, and sat down quietly in the chimney corner.</p>
+
+<p>His meditations were interrupted by the gaoler. This time the man not
+only brought him bed furniture, far superior to what he had given him
+before, but he had added a carpet, a mirror, and even toilet utensils.</p>
+
+<p>A cloth was spread on a table, upon which he placed in a moment a very
+appetising dinner.</p>
+
+<p>"The Major begs me to apologize, sir," he said; "tomorrow he will send
+you what you asked for. In the meanwhile he has forwarded you some
+books."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, my friend," the Count replied.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name?"</p>
+
+<p>"La Grenade, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Has the Governor selected you to wait on me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"My friend, you appear to me a good fellow, here are three louis for
+you. I will give you the same amount every month if I am satisfied with
+your attention."</p>
+
+<p>"Had you given me nothing, sir," La Grenade replied, as he took the
+money, "it would not have prevented me from serving you with all the
+zeal of which I am capable, and if I receive these three louis, it is
+only because a poor devil like me has no right to refuse a present from
+so generous a gentleman as you. But, I repeat, sir, I am quite at your
+service, and you can employ me in whatever way you please."</p>
+
+<p>"Goodness!" the Count said, in surprise; "and yet I do not know you,
+as far as I am aware, La Grenade&mdash;whence, may I ask, comes this great
+devotion to my person?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am most willing to tell you, sir, if it interests you. I am a
+friend of M. Franįois Bouillot, to whom I am under certain obligations;
+he ordered me to serve and obey you in everything."</p>
+
+<p>"That good Bouillot," said the Count. "Very well, my friend, I shall
+not be ungrateful. I do not want you anymore at present."</p>
+
+<p>The gaoler put some logs on the fire, lit the lamp, and withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said the Count, with a laugh, "Heaven forgive me! I believe
+that, though a prisoner in appearance, I am as much master of this
+castle as the governor, and that I can leave it without opposition on
+any day I like. What would the Cardinal think if he knew how his orders
+were executed?"</p>
+
+<p>He sat down to table, unfolded his napkin, and began dining with a good
+appetite.</p>
+
+<p>Things went on thus, in the way agreed on between the Governor and his
+prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>The arrival of Count de Barmont at the fortress had been a windfall for
+the Major, who, since he had received from the royal munificence the
+command of this castle as retiring pension, had not once before had an
+opportunity to derive any profit from the position that had been given
+him. Hence he promised to make a gold mine of his solitary prisoner;
+for the Isle of St. Marguerite, as we have already remarked, had not
+yet acquired the reputation which it merited at a later date as a State
+prison.</p>
+
+<p>The Count's room was furnished as well as it could be; everything he
+demanded in the shape of books was procured him, though he had to pay
+dearly for them, and he was even allowed to walk on the towers.</p>
+
+<p>The Count was happy&mdash;so far, at least, as the circumstances in which
+he found himself allowed him to be so: no one would have supposed,
+on seeing him work so assiduously at mathematics and navigation, for
+he applied himself most seriously to the completion of his maritime
+education, that this man nourished in his heart a thought of implacable
+vengeance, and that this thought was ever present to him.</p>
+
+<p>At the first blush, the resolution formed by the Count to allow himself
+to be incarcerated, while it was easy for him to remain free, may seem
+strange: but the Count was one of those men of granite whose thoughts
+are immutable, and who, when they have once formed a resolution, after
+calculating with the utmost coolness all the chances for and against,
+follow the road they have laid down for themselves, ever marching in a
+straight line without caring for the obstacles that arise at each step
+on their path and surmounting them, because they decided from the first
+that they would do so&mdash;characters that grow and are perfected in the
+struggle, and sooner or later reach the goal they have designed.</p>
+
+<p>The Count understood that any resistance to the Cardinal would result
+in his own utter ruin; and there was no lack of proofs to support this
+reasoning: by escaping from the guards who were taking him to prison,
+he would remain at liberty, it is true, but he would be exiled, obliged
+to quit France, and wander about in foreign parts alone, isolated,
+without resources, ever on the watch, forced to hide himself, and
+reduced to the impossibility of asking, that is to say, of obtaining
+the necessary information he required to avenge himself on the man
+who, by robbing him of the wife he loved, had at the same blow not
+only destroyed his career and fortune, but also eternally ruined his
+happiness.</p>
+
+<p>He was young, and could wait; vengeance is eaten cold, say the
+southerners&mdash;and the Count came from Languedoc. Besides, as he had said
+to Bouillot, in a moment of expansiveness, he wished to suffer, in
+order to kill within him every human feeling that still existed, and to
+find himself one day armed <i>cap-ā-pie</i> to face his enemy.</p>
+
+<p>Cardinal Richelieu and Louis XIII. were both seriously ill. Their death
+would not fail to produce a change of reign in two, three, or four
+years at the most, and that catastrophe would arrive, one of whose
+consequences it is to produce a reaction, and consequently, to open to
+all the prisoners of the defunct Cardinal the dungeons to which he had
+condemned them.</p>
+
+<p>The Count was twenty-five years of age: hence time was his own, and the
+more so because, when restored to liberty, he would enter on all his
+rights, and as an enemy of Richelieu, be favourably regarded at Court,
+and, through the temporary credit he would enjoy, be in a condition to
+regain all the advantage he had lost as concerned his foe.</p>
+
+<p>Only energetically endowed men, who are sure of themselves, are capable
+of making such calculations, and obstinately pursuing a line of
+conduct so opposed to all logical combinations; but these men who thus
+resolutely enlist chance on their side, and reckon on it as a partner,
+always succeed in what they purpose doing, unless death suddenly cuts
+them short.</p>
+
+<p>Through the intercession of La Grenade, and the tacit connivance of the
+Governor, who closed his eyes with a charming inattention, the Count
+was not only cognizant with all that was going on outside, but also
+received letters from his friends, which he answered.</p>
+
+<p>One day, after reading a letter which la Grenade had given him when
+bringing in breakfast, a letter from the Duc de Bellegarde, which had
+reached him through Michael, for the worthy sailor had refused to leave
+his Commandant, and had turned fisherman at Antibes, with Bowline as
+his assistant, the Count sent a message to the Governor, requesting a
+few minutes' conversation with him.</p>
+
+<p>The Major knew that every visit he paid his prisoner was a profit to
+him, hence he hastened to his room.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you heard the news, sir?" the Count said at once on seeing him.</p>
+
+<p>"What news, my lord?" the Major asked, in amazement, for he knew
+nothing.</p>
+
+<p>In fact, placed as he was at the extreme frontier of the kingdom, news,
+no matter its importance, only reached him, so to speak, by accident.</p>
+
+<p>"The Cardinal Minister is dead, sir. I have just learned it from a sure
+hand."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" said the Major, clasping his hands, for this death might cause
+him the loss of his place.</p>
+
+<p>"And," the Count added, coldly, "His Majesty King Louis XIII. is at
+death's door."</p>
+
+<p>"Great heaven, what a misfortune!" exclaimed the Governor.</p>
+
+<p>"This misfortune may be fortunate for you, sir," the Count resumed.</p>
+
+<p>"Fortunate! When I am menaced with the loss of my command! Alas, my
+lord, what will become of me if I am turned out of here?"</p>
+
+<p>"That might easily, happen," said the Count. "You have, sir, always
+been a great friend of the defunct Cardinal, and known as such."</p>
+
+<p>"That is, unhappily, too true," the Major muttered, quite out of
+countenance, and recognizing the truth of this affirmation.</p>
+
+<p>"There is, I think, an advantageous mode of arranging matters."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, my lord? Speak, I implore you!"</p>
+
+<p>"It is this: listen to me carefully&mdash;what I am going to say is very
+serious for you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am listening, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>"Here is a letter all ready written for the Duc de Bellegarde. You
+will start at once for Paris, passing through Toulon, where you will
+cash this draft for 2000 livres, to cover your expenses. The Duke is
+sincerely attached to me. For my sake he will receive you kindly: you
+will come to an understanding with him, and obey him in everything he
+orders."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>"And if within a month from this time at the latest&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"From this time at the latest&mdash;" the Governor repeated, panting with
+impatience.</p>
+
+<p>"You bring me here my full and entire&mdash;pardon, signed by H. M. Louis
+XIII.&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"What?" the Governor exclaimed, with a start of surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"I will at once pay you," the Count continued, coldly, "the sum of
+50,000 livres, to indemnify you for the loss my liberation must entail
+on you."</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty thousand livres!" the Major exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with
+greed.</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty thousand! yes, sir," the Count replied. "And, besides, I pledge
+myself, if you wish it, to get you confirmed in your command. Is this
+matter settled?"</p>
+
+<p>"But, my lord, how am I to manage at Paris?"</p>
+
+<p>"Follow the instructions the Duc de Bellegarde will give you."</p>
+
+<p>"What you ask of me is very difficult."</p>
+
+<p>"Not so difficult as you pretend to believe, sir; however, if this
+mission does not suit you&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"I did not say that, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"In a word, you can take it or leave it."</p>
+
+<p>"I take it, my lord&mdash;I take it. Great heaven!&mdash;fifty thousand livres!"</p>
+
+<p>"And you start?"</p>
+
+<p>"Tomorrow."</p>
+
+<p>"No, tonight."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good&mdash;tonight."</p>
+
+<p>"All right! Here are the letter and the draft. Oh! by the way, try to
+put yourself in communication with a fisherman at Antibes of the name
+of Michael."</p>
+
+<p>"I know him," the Major said, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed!" said the Count. "There would be no harm, either, in your
+trying to find the exempt who brought me here, one Franįois Bouillot."</p>
+
+<p>"I know where to find him," the Major replied, with the same meaning
+smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good! in that case, my dear Governor, I have nothing more to add,
+or any recommendations to make to you, beyond wishing you a pleasant
+journey."</p>
+
+<p>"It will be so, my lord, I pledge you my word."</p>
+
+<p>"It is true that it is a round sum&mdash;fifty thousand livres!"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not forget the amount."</p>
+
+<p>After saying this the Major took leave of his prisoner, and retired,
+with a profusion of bows.</p>
+
+<p>"I believe that I am going to be free this time!" the Count exclaimed,
+so soon as he was alone&mdash;"Ah! my lord Duke, we are now about to fight
+with equal weapons!"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>MAJOR DE L'OURSIČRE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Had it been possible for Count de Barmont to notice through the thick
+oak planks, lined with iron, that formed the door of his prison, the
+face of the governor on leaving him, he would not have chanted victory
+so loudly, or believed himself so near his deliverance.</p>
+
+<p>In fact, so soon as the Major had no longer cause to dread his
+prisoner's clear-sighted glance, his features immediately assumed an
+expression of cynical malice impossible to render; his half-closed eyes
+flashed with a gloomy fire beneath his grey eyelids and an ironical
+smile raised the corners of his pale thin lips.</p>
+
+<p>It was twilight; night was beginning to fall, and confound all objects,
+by burying them in a dark pall, which momentarily grew denser.</p>
+
+<p>The Major returned to his apartments, put a heavy cloak on his
+shoulders, pulled his hat over his eyes, and sent for his lieutenant.</p>
+
+<p>The latter presented himself at once.</p>
+
+<p>He was a man of about forty, with a delicate and intelligent face,
+whose features were imprinted with gentleness and even kindness.</p>
+
+<p>"I am starting this moment, sir," the governor said to him, "for
+Antibes, whither important business summons me; my absence will
+probably be prolonged for several days. While I remain absent from the
+castle, I invest you with the command; watch over its safety, and guard
+against any attempted escape on the part of the prisoner, though I
+doubt his making it. Such attempts, though they do not succeed, injure
+the reputation of a fortress, and the character of its governor."</p>
+
+<p>"I will watch with the greatest care, sir!"</p>
+
+<p>"I am certain of that, sir. Is there any fishing boat in the roads?
+I should prefer not using the boat belonging to the fortress, as the
+garrison is so weak."</p>
+
+<p>"The fishing boat you generally use, sir, and which is commanded by one
+Michael, I think, was alongside the quay hardly an hour ago, but he has
+probably started to fish outside the reef, as he usually does."</p>
+
+<p>"Hum," said the Major, "even were he still there, I should scruple at
+making the poor fellow lose so much time in putting me ashore. These
+fishermen are not rich, and every minute you take from them makes them
+lose a part of the trifling profit of a long and hard night's work."</p>
+
+<p>The officer bowed, apparently sharing his chief's philanthropic ideas,
+although his face evidenced the surprise which the expression of such
+sentiments by a man like the Major caused him.</p>
+
+<p>"Are there no other boats here?" the Major asked, affecting an air of
+indifference.</p>
+
+<p>"I beg your pardon, sir, a smuggling lugger is just about putting out
+to sea."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; warn the master that I wish him to take me on board. Be
+good enough to make haste, sir, for I am in a hurry."</p>
+
+<p>The officer withdrew to carry out the order given him; the Major took
+some papers, doubtless important, from an iron casket, hid them under
+his coat, wrapped himself in his cloak, and left the castle, under the
+salute of the sentries who presented arms as he passed.</p>
+
+<p>"Well?" he asked the officer who came to meet him.</p>
+
+<p>"I have spoken to the master, sir, he awaits you," the other replied.</p>
+
+<p>"I thank you, sir; now, return to the castle, and watch carefully over
+its safety till my return."</p>
+
+<p>The officer took leave, and the Major proceeded toward a sort of small
+quay, where the lugger's yawl was waiting for him.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as the governor was aboard, the smuggler let go the hawser, and
+set sail.</p>
+
+<p>When the light vessel was well under weigh, the master respectfully
+walked up to the Major.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are we to steer?" he asked, as he doffed his woollen nightcap.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah! is it you, Master Nicaud?" the governor said; for, accustomed
+to have dealings with the smugglers, he knew most of them by their
+names.</p>
+
+<p>"Myself, at your service, if I can do anything, Mr. Governor," the
+master answered politely.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me," said the Major, "would you like to earn ten louis?"</p>
+
+<p>The sailor burst into a hearty laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"You are joking with me, of course, Mr. Governor," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Not at all," the Major went on, "and the proof is, here they are,"
+he added, as he drew from his pocket a handful of gold, which he
+carelessly tossed in his hand; "I am therefore awaiting your answer."</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it, Mr. Governor, you are well aware that ten louis forms a very
+fine lump of money for a poor fellow like me; I am most willing to earn
+the canaries, what must I do for them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, a very simple thing! take me to St. Honorat, where I feel
+inclined for a stroll."</p>
+
+<p>"At this time of night?" the master remarked in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>The Major bit his lips on perceiving that he had made a foolish remark.</p>
+
+<p>"I am very fond of the picturesque, and wish to enjoy the effect of the
+convent ruins in the moonlight."</p>
+
+<p>"That is an idea like any other," the skipper answered; "and as you pay
+me, Mr. Governor, I can have no objection."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true. Then you will take me to Saint Honorat, land me in your
+boat, and stand off and on while waiting for me. Is that agreed?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! I have a decided taste for solitude, and hence I must insist on
+none of your men landing on the island while I am there."</p>
+
+<p>"The whole crew shall remain on board, I promise you."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, I trust to you, here is the money."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks," said the skipper, pocketing it; then he said to the steerer,
+"down with the helm," and added, "Hilloh, my lads, brace the sheets to
+larboard."</p>
+
+<p>The vessel quickly came up to the wind, and leaped over the waves in
+the direction of Saint Honorat, whose black outlines stood out on the
+horizon.</p>
+
+<p>It is but a short passage between Saint Marguerite and Saint Honorat,
+especially for such a clipper as the smuggling lugger.</p>
+
+<p>The vessel was soon off the island.</p>
+
+<p>The master lay to, and ordered a boat to be let down.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Governor," he said respectfully, doffing his cap, and stopping the
+governor, who was walking up and down in the stern; "we are all ready,
+and the boat waits for you."</p>
+
+<p>"Already! All the better," the latter answered.</p>
+
+<p>At the moment when he was going to get into the boat, the skipper
+arrested him.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you pistols?" he asked him.</p>
+
+<p>"Pistols?" he said as he turned round, "What for? is not this island
+deserted?"</p>
+
+<p>"Entirely."</p>
+
+<p>"Hence I can run no risk."</p>
+
+<p>"Not the slightest; hence that is not the reason why I asked you the
+question."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it, it is as black as in the fiend's oven; there is no moon, you
+cannot distinguish an object ten yards from you. How shall I know when
+you want to come on board again, unless you warn me by a signal?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; what had I better do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Here is a pistol, it is not loaded, but there is powder in the pan,
+and you can squib it."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks," said the Major, taking the pistol, and thrusting it through
+his girdle.</p>
+
+<p>He got into the boat, which was dancing on the waves, and sat down in
+the stern sheets; four vigorous sailors bending over the oars made her
+fly through the water.</p>
+
+<p>"A pleasant trip," the skipper shouted.</p>
+
+<p>It appeared to the Major as if this wish had been uttered with a very
+marked ironical tone by Master Nicaud, but he attached no further
+importance to it, and turned his eyes toward land, which was gradually
+looming larger.</p>
+
+<p>Ere long the boat's bows grated on the sand; they had arrived.</p>
+
+<p>The Major went ashore, and after ordering the sailors to return aboard,
+he drew his cloak over his face, went off with long steps, and soon
+disappeared in the darkness.</p>
+
+<p>However, instead of obeying the injunction given them, three of the
+sailors landed in their turn, and followed the Major at a distance,
+while careful to keep themselves out of sight. The fourth, who remained
+to keep the boat, hid the latter behind a point, secured it to a
+projecting rock, and leaping ashore, fusil in hand, he remained on the
+watch with his eyes fixed on the interior of the island.</p>
+
+<p>The Major, in the meanwhile, continued to advance hurriedly in the
+direction of the ruins, whose imposing outline was already beginning
+to present itself to his eyes, borrowing from the surrounding gloom a
+still more imposing aspect.</p>
+
+<p>The Major, convinced that his orders had been punctually carried out,
+for he had no motive to distrust Master Nicaud, whom he had ever and
+under all circumstances found willing and faithful, walked on without
+turning his head, or even taking precautions, which he considered
+unnecessary, as he was far from suspecting that several men were
+following his footsteps, and watching his movements.</p>
+
+<p>It was easy to see from the deliberate manner in which he walked, and
+the facility with which he evaded obstacles and found his way in the
+darkness, that this was not the first time the Major had come to this
+spot, though it appeared so solitary and deserted.</p>
+
+<p>After entering the ruins, M. de l'Oursičre passed through a cloister,
+encumbered with shapeless fragments, and forcing his way between
+stones and brambles, he entered the chapel, a magnificent specimen of
+the purest Roman style, whose crumbling roof had fallen in under the
+incessant efforts of time, and only the choir and apse still remained
+intact amid broken columns and desecrated altars.</p>
+
+<p>The Major passed through the choir, and reached the apse, where he
+halted.</p>
+
+<p>After carefully examining for a moment the surrounding objects, as if
+he expected to find someone or something he did not perceive, he at
+length resolved to clap his hands thrice.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment a man rose scarce two paces from him.</p>
+
+<p>This sudden apparition, though he fully expected it, made the Major
+start, and he fell back a step, laying his hand on his sword.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah, my master," the stranger said, in a mocking voice, "pray do
+you take me for a spectre, that I cause you such terror?"</p>
+
+<p>The man was wrapped up in a thick cloak, whose folds concealed his
+shape, while a broad leafed plumed hat entirely covered his face and
+rendered him completely unrecognizable. Only the end of his cloak
+raised by the scabbard of a long rapier, proved that whoever the man
+might be, he had not come unarmed to this gloomy rendezvous.</p>
+
+<p>"I am at your orders, sir," the Major said, raising his hand to his
+hat, but without removing it.</p>
+
+<p>"And ready to serve me, no doubt," the stranger resumed.</p>
+
+<p>"That depends," the Major remarked roughly, "times are no longer the
+same."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah," the stranger continued still sarcastically, "what news is
+there? I shall be delighted to learn it of you."</p>
+
+<p>"You know it as well as I do, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"No matter, tell me all the same what the great news is, that thus
+produces modifications in our relations which have hitherto been so
+amicable?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is useless to jeer thus, sir; I have served you, you have paid me,
+and we are quits."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps so, but go on. I presume you wish to propose a new bargain to
+me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have nothing to propose; I have merely come because you expressed a
+desire to see me, that is all."</p>
+
+<p>"And your prisoner, are you still satisfied with him?"</p>
+
+<p>"More than ever. He is a charming gentleman, who does not at all
+deserve the melancholy fate thrust on him; I really feel an interest in
+him."</p>
+
+<p>"Confound it, that comes expensive, I did not take that interest into
+account, and I was wrong, I see."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, sir?" the Major protested with an indignant air.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing but what I say to you, my dear sir. Hang it, you amuse me with
+your scruples, after taking money from all parties during the last
+eighteen months; the Cardinal is dead and the King is on the point of
+following him, that is what you wished to tell me, is it not? A new
+reign is preparing, and it is probable that, if only through a spirit
+of contradiction, the new government will upset everything done by
+the one that preceded it, and that its first care will be to open the
+prison doors; you also wished to tell me that Count de Barmont, who
+possesses warm friends at court, who will not fail to employ their
+influence on his behalf, cannot fail to be set at liberty ere long.
+Confusion, I knew all that as well and even better than you, but what
+matter?"</p>
+
+<p>"How, what matter?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, if Count de Barmont has devoted friends, he has implacable
+enemies; bear that in mind."</p>
+
+<p>"And the result will be?"</p>
+
+<p>"That in four days at the latest, you will receive an order signed by
+Louis XIII. himself."</p>
+
+<p>"To what effect?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! Good heaven, no great thing, except that Count de Barmont will
+be immediately transferred from St. Marguerite to the Bastille; and
+once there," he added in a hollow voice, which made the Major shudder
+involuntarily, "a man is eternally erased from the number of the living
+or only leaves it a corpse or a maniac. Do you comprehend me now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I understand you, sir; but who guarantees that the Count will not
+have escaped before the four days to which you refer?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! With a governor like yourself, Major, such an eventuality seems to
+me highly improbable."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, well," the Major observed, "very extraordinary tales are told
+about the escape of prisoners."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; but another thing reassures me against this escape."</p>
+
+<p>"And what is that, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Merely that the Count himself declared that he would never consent to
+escape, and was not at all anxious about liberty."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, sir, that is the very thing that deceives you; it seems that
+he has now changed his opinion, and is eagerly soliciting through his
+friends to obtain his liberty."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Have we come to that point?" the stranger said, fixing on the
+Major a glance which flashed through the gloom.</p>
+
+<p>The governor bowed.</p>
+
+<p>There was a silence, during which no other sound was audible, save that
+of the heavy flight of the nocturnal birds in the ruins.</p>
+
+<p>"A truce to further chattering," the stranger resumed in a fierce
+voice; "how much do you ask to prevent the prisoner escaping until the
+king's order reaches you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Two hundred thousand livres," the Major answered roughly.</p>
+
+<p>"Was I not right in telling you that it would be expensive?" the
+stranger said with a grin.</p>
+
+<p>"Dear or not, that is my price, and I shall not bate it."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, you shall have it."</p>
+
+<p>"When?"</p>
+
+<p>"Tomorrow."</p>
+
+<p>"That will be too late."</p>
+
+<p>"What?" the stranger asked haughtily.</p>
+
+<p>"I said it would be too late," the Major repeated imperturbably.</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, when must you have it?"</p>
+
+<p>"At once."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you fancy I carry 200,000 livres about me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not say that, but I can accompany you where you are going, and on
+reaching Antibes, we will say, you can pay me the amount."</p>
+
+<p>"That is a good plan."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, only there is an obstacle to its success."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not see one."</p>
+
+<p>"But I do."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"That, if I give you a meeting here, and come disguised and alone, I
+have probably an object."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course! You wish to remain incog."</p>
+
+<p>"You are full of penetration, my dear sir; and yet we can come to an
+understanding."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not see how, unless you consent to what I ask."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a judge of diamonds, since we have hitherto only bargained in
+them."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, I am a tolerable judge of them."</p>
+
+<p>"Here is one that is worth 100,000 crowns, take it."</p>
+
+<p>And he offered a small case of black shagreen.</p>
+
+<p>The Major eagerly seized it.</p>
+
+<p>"But," he objected, "how can I be certain that you are not deceiving
+me?"</p>
+
+<p>"An affecting confession," the stranger observed laughingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Business is business, I risk my soul in serving you."</p>
+
+<p>"As for your soul, my dear sir, reassure yourself; in that quarter you
+have nothing to risk. But I will give you the satisfaction you desire."</p>
+
+<p>And taking a dark lanthorn from under his cloak, he let the light play
+on the diamond.</p>
+
+<p>The Major only required one glance to assure himself of the value of
+the rich reward offered him.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you satisfied?" the stranger asked, as he placed the lanthorn
+again under his cloak.</p>
+
+<p>"Here is the proof," the Major answered, as he concealed the box, and
+handed him a bundle of papers.</p>
+
+<p>"What is this?" the stranger inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"Papers of great importance for you, in the sense that they will tell
+you who the Count's friends are, and the means they can employ to
+restore him to liberty."</p>
+
+<p>"Bravo!" the stranger exclaimed, as he eagerly took the bundle of
+papers; "I no longer regret having paid so heavy a price for your
+assistance. Now we have discussed every point, I think?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think so too."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, farewell! When I want you, I will let you know."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going already?"</p>
+
+<p>"What the deuce would you have me do longer in this owl's nest? It is
+time for each of us to rejoin the persons waiting for us."</p>
+
+<p>And after giving the Major a slight wave of the hand, he turned away
+and disappeared behind the ruins of the high altar.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment the stranger was suddenly seized by several men, so
+that not only was he unable to offer a useless resistance, but found
+himself bound and gagged before he had recovered from the surprise this
+attack had caused him.</p>
+
+<p>His silent aggressors then left him rolling on the ground with
+convulsive bounds of impotent rage, and disappeared in the darkness
+without paying any further attention to him.</p>
+
+<p>The Major, after a momentary hesitation, also resolved to leave the
+place, and slowly proceeded in the direction of the shore. On arriving
+within a certain distance, in obedience to skipper Nicaud's hint, he
+cocked his pistol and flashed the powder in the pan; then he continued
+to advance slowly.</p>
+
+<p>The boat had doubtless made haste to meet him, for at the same moment
+as the Major reached the shore, its bows ran into the sand.</p>
+
+<p>The governor stepped silently into it; twenty minutes after he
+found himself on board the lugger, where master Nicaud received him
+respectfully cap in hand.</p>
+
+<p>The boat was hauled up to the davits, sail was set on the lugger, and
+she stood out to sea before a fresh breeze.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE SEAGULL LUGGER.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>A lugger is a three mast vessel, with narrow lines aft and bulging
+bows; it has a foremast, mainmast, and a driver greatly inclined over
+the stern; its bowsprit is short; it carries large sails and at times
+topsails.</p>
+
+<p>From this description it is easy to see that luggers have the same rig,
+on a larger scale, as chasse-marées.</p>
+
+<p>Although the draft on water of these vessels is rather great aft, as
+they are generally quick and good sea boats, they are largely employed
+for smuggling purposes, in spite of the inconvenience of the large
+sails which have to be shifted with each tack.</p>
+
+<p>The Seagull was a vessel of ninety tons, neatly fitted up, and carrying
+four small iron guns of eight to the pound, which caused her to bear a
+greater resemblance with a corsair than a peaceful coaster.</p>
+
+<p>Still, in spite of a rather numerous crew, and her rakish appearance,
+during about a year since this vessel began frequenting the coast of
+Provence and the Lerins islands, not a word of harm had been said
+against her. Skipper Nicaud passed for an honest worthy man, although a
+little rough and quarrelsome,&mdash;faults, by the way, peculiar to nearly
+all sailors, and which in no way diminished the excellent reputation
+which the master of the Seagull enjoyed.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as Major de l'Oursičre had regained the lugger's deck, and the
+vessel had stood off, after taking a parting glance at St. Honorat,
+whose outline was gradually disappearing in the mist, he walked aft,
+seized the manrope and went down into the cabin.</p>
+
+<p>But on entering the cabin, which he supposed to be unoccupied, as
+the skipper was on deck, the Major with difficulty restrained an
+exclamation of surprise.</p>
+
+<p>There was a man in the cabin, seated at a table, and contently imbibing
+rum and water, while smoking an enormous pipe, and forming an aureole
+around him of bluish smoke.</p>
+
+<p>In this man the Major recognised Michael the Basque, the fisherman.</p>
+
+<p>After a moment's hesitation, the Major walked in, although the presence
+of this individual aboard the lugger was rather singular. Still there
+was nothing in the thing that should terrify the Major, who had no
+reason to suppose that Michael was hostile to him, or that he had
+anything to apprehend from him.</p>
+
+<p>At the noise made by the Major on entering the cabin, the sailor half
+turned to him, though without removing the pipe from his lips. After
+taking a pull at the glass he held in his right hand, he said in a
+bantering tone,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Why, if I am not mistaken, it is our estimable governor of St.
+Marguerite; delighted to see you, I am sure, Major."</p>
+
+<p>"Why," the Major replied, in the same key, "it's that worthy fellow,
+Michael. By what chance do I find you here, when I had a right to
+suppose you engaged fishing, at this moment, Lord knows where?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" said Michael, with a laugh; "There's as good fishing here
+as anywhere. Won't you take a seat, Major, or are you afraid of
+compromising your dignity by sitting down by the side of a poor fellow
+like me?"</p>
+
+<p>"You do not think that," the Major answered, as he seated himself.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you smoke, eh?" Michael asked him.</p>
+
+<p>"No; that is a sailor's amusement."</p>
+
+<p>"It is so, Major. But I suppose you drink?"</p>
+
+<p>The Major held out a glass, which the sailor liberally filled.</p>
+
+<p>"Here's your health, Major. If I expected to meet anyone, it wasn't
+you, I assure you."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought so."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed I didn't."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, to tell you the truth, I did not expect to meet you, either."</p>
+
+<p>"I am aware of that. You have come from St. Honorat."</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it all! You cannot be ignorant of that fact, since I find you
+here."</p>
+
+<p>"It was on your account, then, that we lost two hours in tacking
+between the islands, at the risk of running on to a reef, instead of
+attending to our business?"</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean by business? Are you a smuggler at present?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am everything," Michael replied, laconically, emptying his glass.</p>
+
+<p>"But what the deuce are you doing here?" asked the Major.</p>
+
+<p>"What are you?" the sailor said, answering one question by another.</p>
+
+<p>"I&mdash;I?" the Major began, in embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p>"You hesitate!" Michael continued, banteringly. "Well, I will tell you,
+if you like."</p>
+
+<p>"You, Michael?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why not? You went to St. Honorat to admire the beauties of nature,"
+and he burst into a hearty laugh. "Is it not so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. I have always passionately admired the picturesque. But that
+reminds me. I have forgotten to tell skipper Nicaud where I wish him to
+land me."</p>
+
+<p>And he made a movement, as if to rise.</p>
+
+<p>"It is unnecessary," the sailor said, obliging him to sit down again.</p>
+
+<p>"How? Unnecessary! On the contrary, I must do it, without further
+delay."</p>
+
+<p>"Still you have time, Major," the sailor said, peremptorily; "besides,
+I must speak with you first."</p>
+
+<p>"You speak with me?" the Major exclaimed, in stupefaction.</p>
+
+<p>"So it is, Major," the other replied, sarcastically. "I have very
+important matters to tell you. In your devil of a castle that is
+impossible, because you have there a number of soldiers and gaolers,
+who, at your slightest frown, interrupt the person addressing you, and
+throw him without ceremony into some hole, where they unscrupulously
+leave him to rot. That is discouraging, on my honour. But here it is
+far more agreeable, as I am not afraid that you will have me locked up
+&mdash;at least, not for the present. Hence, as the opportunity offers, I
+wish to take advantage of it to empty my budget, and tell you what I
+have on my heart."</p>
+
+<p>The Major felt internally anxious, without yet knowing positively what
+he had to fear, so extraordinary to him seemed this way of speaking
+on the part of a sailor, who had hitherto always displayed a servile
+politeness toward him. Still, he did not allow anything of this to be
+seen, but leaned carelessly over the table.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, let us talk, since you feel so great an inclination for
+it, my good Michael; for I have time, as I am in no hurry."</p>
+
+<p>The sailor made his chair turn half round on its hind legs, and finding
+himself by this movement right facing M. de l'Oursičre, he examined him
+cunningly, for an instant, then drained the contents of his glass; and,
+after banging the empty glass on the table, he said,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"It is really a charming passion of yours, Major, to go thus at night
+to admire the ruins of the convent of St. Honorat in the darkness. It
+is, really, a charming passion, and a very profitable one, from what I
+have been able to learn."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?" the Major asked, turning pale.</p>
+
+<p>"I mean what I say, nothing else! Do you believe in hazard, Major?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"No more, I fancy, in that which makes me meet you here, than in the
+chance that makes you find on a desert island diamonds worth three
+hundred thousand livres; because the one thing is as impossible as the
+other?"</p>
+
+<p>This time the Major did not attempt to reply, for he felt he was caught
+out.</p>
+
+<p>Michael continued in the same sneering and bantering tone&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"It is certainly ingenious to act as you do. A man soon grows rich by
+taking with both hands, but like all trades that are too good, this one
+is rather risky."</p>
+
+<p>"You insult me, scoundrel!" the Major stammered. "Take care what you
+say. If I call&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come," the sailor interrupted, with a coarse laugh; "I do not
+intend to notice the insult you cast in my teeth, for I have something
+else to do. As for calling out, just try it, and you will see what
+will happen."</p>
+
+<p>"That&mdash;that is treachery!"</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it! Are we not all more or less traitors? You are one&mdash;I am one;
+that is allowed: hence, believe me, it is useless to dwell any longer
+on this subject, and we had better revert to our business."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak," the Major muttered in a gloomy voice.</p>
+
+<p>"But, stay. I wish to give you a proof of frankness, and show you once
+for all how wrong you would be in keeping up, I will not say the least
+hope, but the slightest illusion as to what is going on here."</p>
+
+<p>Then, tapping the table smartly with the heel of his glass, he
+shouted,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Come here, Nicaud, I want you."</p>
+
+<p>A heavy step resounded on the cabin stairs, and almost immediately
+Skipper Nicaud's cunning face was framed by the doorway.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want, Michael?" he asked, without seeming even to notice
+the Major's presence.</p>
+
+<p>"Only a trifle, my lad," the sailor replied, pointing to the officer,
+who had turned pale, through the emotion he felt. "Only a simple
+question for the personal satisfaction of this gentleman."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak."</p>
+
+<p>"Who is the present commander of the Seagull lugger, in whose cabin we
+are now seated?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, you, of course."</p>
+
+<p>"Then everyone aboard, yourself included, must obey me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly; and without the slightest observation."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. Then supposing, Nicaud, I were to order you to take the
+Major here present, fasten a couple of round shot to his feet, and
+throw him overboard, what would you do, my lad?"</p>
+
+<p>"What would I do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Obey."</p>
+
+<p>"Without any observation?"</p>
+
+<p>Skipper Nicaud shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I do it?" he asked, stretching out his huge fist towards the
+Major, who shuddered.</p>
+
+<p>"Not yet," Michael answered. "Go back on deck, but do not go far, as I
+shall probably want you soon."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," said the master, and disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you now edified, Major?" Michael asked, turning carelessly to the
+horrified governor; "And are you not beginning to understand that I,
+poor chap as I am, compared with you, have you, temporarily, at any
+rate, completely in my power?"</p>
+
+<p>"I allow it," the Major stammered, in a faint and choking voice.</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, I believe we shall come to an understanding."</p>
+
+<p>"Come to the facts, sir, without further circumlocution."</p>
+
+<p>"Good!" Michael exclaimed, coarsely; "That's how I like to see you. In
+the first place, hand me the diamond which your accomplice gave you in
+the ruins."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you mean robbery. I had hoped better things of you," the Major
+answered, disdainfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Call it what you like, Major," the sailor said imperturbably; "the
+name does not alter the thing&mdash;give me the diamond."</p>
+
+<p>"No," the Major answered coldly, "the diamond is my fortune, and you
+shall only have it with my life."</p>
+
+<p>"That condition, illogical though it is, will not check me, I assure
+you, for I will kill you, if necessary, and then take the diamond," and
+he cocked a pistol.</p>
+
+<p>There was a silence.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then, it is really this diamond you want?"</p>
+
+<p>"That and something else," said Michael.</p>
+
+<p>"I do not understand you."</p>
+
+<p>The sailor rose, placed the pistol to his chest, and said frowningly&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I will make you understand me."</p>
+
+<p>The Major felt he was lost, and that this man would kill him.</p>
+
+<p>"Stop!" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you decided?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he answered, in a voice choked with rage, and drawing the box
+from his bosom, he muttered, "Curse you, take it!"</p>
+
+<p>Michael returned the pistol to his belt, opened the box, and
+attentively examined the diamond.</p>
+
+<p>"It is the one," he said, as he closed the box again, and stowed it
+away.</p>
+
+<p>The unlucky officer followed all these movements with a lack-lustre eye.</p>
+
+<p>Michael resumed his seat, poured himself out a glass of rum, swallowed
+it at a draught, and then bending forward as he filled his pipe, said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Now, let us talk."</p>
+
+<p>"What, talk?" asked the Major; "Have we not finished yet?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not yet&mdash;what a hurry you are in. At present we have said nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"What more do you want of me?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is meant for a reproach; but I allow for your ill temper, and
+owe you no grudge for it. It is a sad thing for a man who has been
+poor all his life to see himself robbed in a moment of a fortune which
+he had only just secured. Well, then, listen to me, Major," he said,
+assuming a consolatory air, and putting his elbows on the table, "it is
+easy for you to regain the fortune you have lost, and it only depends
+on yourself."</p>
+
+<p>The Major opened his eyes widely, not knowing whether to take what the
+sailor said to him seriously; but as he risked nothing by permitting an
+explanation, he prepared to give him the most earnest attention.</p>
+
+<p>The other continued&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"No matter how I learned the fact&mdash;I know for certain, and the affair
+of the diamond is an undeniable proof of it&mdash;that, while on one hand,
+you feigned to feel the greatest interest for Count de Barmont, from
+whom you have drawn large sums, though I don't say it in reproach, by
+means of this feigned pity; on the other, you betray him without shame
+to his enemies, whom you make pay for it heavily. I merely mention this
+as a fact, and it is unnecessary to discuss it," Michael said, checking
+the Major, who was about to speak. "Now, I have made up my mind that,
+against wind and tide, and in spite of all the intrigues of his enemies
+to prevent it, the Count shall be free, and free through me. This is my
+plan: listen attentively to this, Mr. Governor, for the affair concerns
+you' more nearly than you seem to suppose. The Count has learnt the
+death of Cardinal de Richelieu, and I sent him the news in a letter
+from the Duc de Bellegarde. You see that I know everything, or nearly
+so: he at once requested to see you, and you granted his wish. What
+took place at your interview? Speak, and before all, be frank: in my
+turn, I will listen to you."</p>
+
+<p>"Of what use is it to repeat our conversation?" the Major asked,
+ironically.</p>
+
+<p>"For my private satisfaction," Michael answered, "and your special
+interest: do not be in too great a hurry to rejoice, Major, for you are
+not out of my hands yet. Believe me, you had better yield with a good
+grace, for your interest demands it."</p>
+
+<p>"My interest?" he repeated, in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"Go on, Major; when the time arrives, be assured, I shall give you the
+explanation you desire."</p>
+
+<p>The old officer reflected for a moment: at last he decided to speak,
+resolved, if the opportunity offered itself hereafter, to make the
+sailor pay dearly for all his agony and humiliation.</p>
+
+<p>"The Count," he said, "engaged me to go to Paris, and negotiate with
+the Duc de Bellegarde, in order to bring him back his order of release,
+which the duke is certain to obtain from the king."</p>
+
+<p>"That is good. And when do you intend to start for Paris?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have started."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Ah!" said Michael, with a laugh. "It appears that you have stopped
+on the road, but that has nothing to do with the affair. Is that all?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nearly so."</p>
+
+<p>"Hum! then there is something else?"</p>
+
+<p>"Less than nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"No matter&mdash;out with it, for I am very curious. Did not the Count
+promise you something?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"How much?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty thousand livres," the Major said, with repugnance.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah, that is a tidy sum! And you were setting about earning it in
+a strange fashion; but I do not wish to refer to that any more. Do
+you wish to recover your diamond, and at the same time gain the fifty
+thousand livres promised by the Count? Speak, it depends on yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"You are jesting with me, and not speaking seriously."</p>
+
+<p>"Never, on the contrary, have I been more serious. On the Count's
+arrival at the castle you command, you were only a poor scrub of an
+officer of fortune, who, during his whole life, had been struggling
+against odds, and perched like an owl on an old wall, you were exposed
+on your isle to die as you had lived; that is to say, without a rap.
+During the last fifteen or eighteen months, things have completely
+changed with you. With what you have extorted from the Count, and what
+his enemies have given you, you have succeeded in getting together a
+very decent sum. Admitting that you were to receive the Count's fifty
+thousand livres, and I were to give you back the diamond, it would
+produce you a perfectly independent fortune, enabling you to retire
+when you pleased, and end your days in joy and abundance. Is not that
+your opinion?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, but I shall not touch the 50,000 livres, and the diamond
+you have taken from me."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, but," he added, "it is only dependent on yourself,
+Major, to have it again in your possession."</p>
+
+<p>"What must I do for that?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is what I was waiting for, Major; you consent then, to enter into
+an arrangement?"</p>
+
+<p>"I must; have I my free will at this moment?"</p>
+
+<p>"A man always has it when he likes, Major, you know that as well as I
+do; the only thing is, that as you are a man endowed with a strong dose
+of intelligence, and understand, that when a person has made a fortune
+by means more or less honourable, he must keep it at all hazards, you
+are beginning to lend a more attentive ear to the propositions which
+you guess I am preparing to make you, for you are at length convinced
+that it is to your interest to come to an understanding with me."</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose what you like, I do not care; but tell me your propositions,
+so that I may know whether my honour allows me to accept them or forces
+me to refuse them."</p>
+
+<p>Michael began laughing unceremoniously at this outburst, by which the
+Major sought to mask his capitulation.</p>
+
+<p>"Instead of going to Paris," he said, "you will simply return to Sainte
+Marguerite. You will go to the Count, tell him he is free, and then
+return with him on board the lugger, which will wait for you. When the
+Count and yourself are on board, the lugger will stand out to sea.
+Then I will restore you your diamond and pay you the amount agreed on;
+and as probably you will not care to resume the command of your castle
+after such a frolic, I will convey you, and your wealth wherever you
+like, in order to enjoy it without fear of being disturbed."</p>
+
+<p>"But," the Major observed, "what shall I tell the Count to persuade him
+that he is free by the King's orders?"</p>
+
+<p>"That does not concern me, it is your affair; but hang it all, my dear
+Major, you are unjust to yourself in raising any doubts as to the power
+of your imagination. Now what do you think of my proposition, and do
+you accept it?"</p>
+
+<p>"What security have I that you are not deceiving me, and that when I
+have fulfilled the conditions of the bargain you impose on me, you keep
+yours as strictly?"</p>
+
+<p>"The word of a honest man, sir, a word, which though that of a plain
+sailor, is worth that of a gentleman."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you, sir," the Major answered, lowering his eyes before
+Michael's flashing glance.</p>
+
+<p>"Then, that is settled?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it is."</p>
+
+<p>"All right. Hallo! Nicaud!" Michael shouted.</p>
+
+<p>The skipper arrived with a speed that proved he had not been far from
+the two speakers.</p>
+
+<p>"Here I am, Michael, what do you want?"</p>
+
+<p>"Where are we at this moment?" the sailor asked.</p>
+
+<p>"About five leagues to windward of Sainte Marguerite."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good! Keep on the same course till daybreak; at sunrise we will
+stand for the island, and anchor off it."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, I understand."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Here is Mr. Governor, who I think, has great want of a little
+rest; can't you put him up somewhere where he will be able to sleep for
+two or three hours?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing easier, as I shall not turn in tonight, nor you, I suppose,
+my cabin is at the Major's service, if he will do me the honour of
+accepting it."</p>
+
+<p>The old officer was really worn out, not only by the fatigue of a long
+watch, but also by the emotions he had suffered from during the night.
+Certain that he had now no apprehensions about his safety, he heartily
+accepted the skipper's offer, and withdrew into the cabin, the door of
+which the other politely opened for him.</p>
+
+<p>The two sailors went up on deck again.</p>
+
+<p>"This time," said Michael, "I believe that we have manoeuvred cleverly,
+and that our plan will succeed."</p>
+
+<p>"I am beginning to be of your opinion; but I say, wasn't that old
+cormorant of a governor tough?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not very," Michael replied with a laugh, "besides, he had no choice;
+he was obliged to give in, whether he liked it or not."</p>
+
+<p>As had been arranged, the lugger stood off and on from the island
+during the whole night, at a distance of from four to five leagues from
+the coast.</p>
+
+<p>At sunrise, they steered directly for St. Marguerite.</p>
+
+<p>The breeze had lulled nearer shore, so that it occupied some time ere
+the light vessel reached the species of port serving as a landing place
+in front of the castle.</p>
+
+<p>The lugger drew too much water for it to be possible to run alongside
+the quay; hence it lay to a short distance off; and Nicaud had a boat
+lowered, while Michael went down into the cabin to warn the Major.</p>
+
+<p>The latter was awake; refreshed and rested by sleep, he was no longer
+the same man, he now regarded his position in its true light, and
+understood that the means offered him to escape from the disagreeable
+position in which he was placed by his double treachery, was more
+advantageous than otherwise for him.</p>
+
+<p>It was almost with a smile that he wished Michael good day, and he made
+no difficulty about accepting the hand the sailor offered to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," he asked him, "whereabouts are we, Michael?"</p>
+
+<p>"We have arrived, Major."</p>
+
+<p>"Already? Are you not afraid it is too early to go ashore?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not at all; it is nine o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>"So late? Hang it, it seems that I have slept soundly; in truth, I feel
+quite jolly this morning."</p>
+
+<p>"All the better, Major, that is a good sign; I suppose you remember our
+arrangements?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly."</p>
+
+<p>"And you will play fairly with us?"</p>
+
+<p>"In my turn I pledge my honour to it, and I will keep it, whatever may
+happen."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, I am glad to hear you talk like that; I am beginning to alter my
+opinion about you."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff," the Major remarked laughingly, "you do not know me yet."</p>
+
+<p>"You are aware that the boat is ready, it is only waiting for you to go
+ashore."</p>
+
+<p>"If that is the case, I will follow you, Michael; I am now as eager as
+you are to finish the affair."</p>
+
+<p>The Major went on deck and got into the boat, which was at once pushed
+off, and set out for the landing place.</p>
+
+<p>Michael's heart beat ready to burst, while he followed with an anxious
+eye, the light yawl which was rapidly leaving the lugger, and was
+already close in shore.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>FRANCE, FAREWELL!</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>The Major had scarce landed at Sainte Marguerite, ere everything were
+in commotion in the fort.</p>
+
+<p>On leaving the isle on the previous evening, the governor had stated
+that he was going on a journey, and would be absent a week, perhaps two.</p>
+
+<p>The Lieutenant, intrusted with the command of the fort during his
+absence, eagerly hastened to meet him, curious to learn the motive for
+such a speedy return.</p>
+
+<p>The Major at first replied evasively, that news he had received on
+landing on the mainland, had necessitated the immediate interruption
+of his journey; and, while conversing thus, he entered the fort and
+proceeded to his apartments, followed by the Lieutenant whom he had
+invited to accompany him.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir," he said to him so soon as they were alone, "you will immediately
+choose from the garrison ten resolute men; and proceed with them on
+board the fishing vessel I noticed at anchor when I entered the fort.
+The missive I entrust to you is most important, and if you carry it out
+thoroughly, may have important results for you; it must be managed with
+the most profound secrecy, however, for it is a secret of state."</p>
+
+<p>The Lieutenant bowed gratefully, evidently flattered at the confidence
+his chief placed in him.</p>
+
+<p>The Major continued.</p>
+
+<p>"You will land on the coast a little below Antibes, and keep the boat,
+which you will use for your return; you will manage so as not to enter
+the town till nightfall, without attracting any attention, you will
+lodge your men as best you can without arousing suspicions, but so as
+to have them under hand at any moment. Tomorrow morning at ten o'clock,
+you will present yourself to the town commandant, hand him a letter I
+shall give you, and place yourself at his disposal. Have you understood
+me thoroughly, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly, Mr. Governor."</p>
+
+<p>"Before all, I recommend you the most utter discretion; remember that
+your fortune probably depends on the success of the mission."</p>
+
+<p>"I will obey you, Major, and I hope that you will only have compliments
+to pay me on my return."</p>
+
+<p>"I trust so too, sir, but make haste, for you must be gone in half an
+hour. During your preparations I will write the letter; it will be
+ready when you come to take leave again."</p>
+
+<p>The lieutenant, after bowing respectfully, retired with a joyous heart,
+not having the slightest suspicion of the treachery meditated by his
+chief, and went off at full speed to make all the preparations for his
+departure.</p>
+
+<p>The Major had under his orders a garrison of fifty men, commanded by
+three officers, a captain and two lieutenants.</p>
+
+<p>This captain, the next in rank to him, would doubtless have greatly
+impeded the success of the bold stroke he meditated, owing to the
+pretext he would have been obliged to invent, in order to account for
+the want of a release in writing for the Count.</p>
+
+<p>By sending him away, the Major had only to deal with two subalterns,
+ranking too low in the military scale to venture to make observations,
+or hesitate to accomplish his orders, the more so, because during
+the ten or twelve years M. de l'Oursičre had commanded Fort Sainte
+Marguerite, nothing in his conduct had led to the slightest painful
+suspicions about his honour.</p>
+
+<p>Forced by circumstances to betray his duty and quit his native land
+forever, which he knew he should never see again after this audacious
+scheme, the Major wished to leave nothing to chance, but turn his lost
+position to the greatest possible advantage. He hoped that the measures
+he had taken would protect him from any danger, when his treachery was
+eventually discovered.</p>
+
+<p>But, through a very laudable feeling of justice, especially on the part
+of such a man and under such circumstances, the Major desired alone to
+bear the burden of his infamous conduct and not to attract suspicion of
+complicity on his poor officers, whom duty compelled to obey him, in
+what they considered a portion of their military service.</p>
+
+<p>Hence he wrote to the governor of Antibes a very circumstantial letter,
+in which he narrated, without the slightest omission, the treason he
+meditated, and which would be carried out at the time when the governor
+read the strange missive; he explained the motives that obliged him to
+act as he was doing, while taking on himself all the responsibility of
+such a deed, and acquitting his officers and soldiers, not only of all
+co-operation, but of all cognisance, even indirect, of his project.</p>
+
+<p>These duties scrupulously accomplished&mdash;for it was impossible for the
+governor to be deceived as to the frankness of his confession, or
+to doubt them for a moment&mdash;the Major folded the letter, sealed it
+carefully, and laid it on the table while awaiting the return of his
+second in command.</p>
+
+<p>Now, as his vessels were burnt, M. de l'Oursičre could no longer
+retreat; he must push on and succeed; the certainty of certain ruin if
+his scheme were foiled, removed his last doubts, and restored him all
+the necessary calmness to act with the coolness demanded by the strange
+circumstances in which he found himself placed.</p>
+
+<p>The Captain entered.</p>
+
+<p>"Well?" the Major asked him.</p>
+
+<p>"I am ready to start, Mr. Governor; my soldiers are already on board
+the fishing boat, and we shall have left the island in ten minutes."</p>
+
+<p>"Here is the letter you have to deliver into the hands of the Governor
+of Antibes, sir; remember my instructions."</p>
+
+<p>"I will obey them in every point."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, Heaven guard you! and good-bye," the Major said, as he
+rose.</p>
+
+<p>The officer saluted, and left the room.</p>
+
+<p>The Major watched through the open window of his room; he saw him leave
+the fort, go down to the shore, and on board the fishing vessel; the
+sail was hoisted, and ere long the boat started, slightly heeling over
+under the power of the breeze.</p>
+
+<p>"Ough!" said the Major, closing the window, with a sigh of
+relief&mdash;"that's one, now for the other."</p>
+
+<p>But, before aught else, the old officer shut himself up in his room,
+burnt certain papers, pocketed others, put some clothes in a small
+valise, as he did not wish to take all belonging to him, through fear
+of arousing suspicions, and carefully wrapping up in his cloak a small
+and very heavy iron casket, which, doubtless, contained his ready
+money, he assured himself by a glance around that everything was in
+order, opened the door again, and called.</p>
+
+<p>A soldier appeared.</p>
+
+<p>"Beg Mess. de Castaix and de Mircey to come here," he said, "as I wish
+to speak to them."</p>
+
+<p>They speedily arrived, greatly puzzled at this unexpected interview,
+for usually the Governor talked but little with his officers.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," he said to them, after returning their salute, "an order
+from the King caused me to return here in all haste. I have to take our
+prisoner, M. de Barmont, to Antibes, where your Captain has preceded
+me with a sufficient escort to prevent any attempt at escape on the
+part of the prisoner. I have acted thus because it is the King's good
+pleasure that this transference of the Count from one prison to another
+may have the appearance of a liberation, and I shall explain it in that
+sense to the prisoner, in order that he may have no suspicion of the
+new orders I have received. Until my return, which will be in two days
+at the least, you, Monsieur de Castaix, as senior officer, will assume
+the command of the fortress. I am pleased to believe, gentlemen, that I
+shall only have to praise the aptitude you will display in performing
+your duties during my absence."</p>
+
+<p>The two officers bowed: accustomed to the Cardinal's tortuous and
+mysterious policy, the Major's remarks did not at all surprise them,
+for, although His Eminence was dead, the event had not occurred so
+long that the King should have in any way modified his sullen mode of
+governing.</p>
+
+<p>"Be kind enough to give orders for the prisoner to be brought into my
+presence, while I inform him of his liberation," he added, with a
+mocking smile, whose strange meaning the officers did not comprehend.
+"You will have all the effects belonging to him placed in the boat of
+the smuggling lugger on board which I came back. Go, gentlemen."</p>
+
+<p>The officers withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>The Count was greatly surprised when La Grenade opened the door of his
+cell, and begged him to follow him, as the Governor wished to speak
+with the prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>He fancied the Major on the road to Paris, as had been arranged between
+them on the previous evening, and did not at all understand his
+presence at the fort after the solemn promise he had made.</p>
+
+<p>Another thing also caused him great surprise&mdash;ever since he had been a
+prisoner at Saint Marguerite the Governor had not once sent for him; on
+the contrary, he had always put himself out of the way by visiting his
+cell.</p>
+
+<p>But the thing that completely routed his ideas was La Grenade's
+recommendation to him, to place all his belongings in a trunk, and take
+the key.</p>
+
+<p>"Why this most unnecessary precaution?" the Count asked him.</p>
+
+<p>"No one ever knows what may happen, sir," the gaoler replied,
+cunningly; "it is as well to take precautions; and stay, if I were you
+I would put on my hat and take my cloak."</p>
+
+<p>And while speaking thus, the soldier actively helped him to pack his
+trunk.</p>
+
+<p>"There, that's done," he said, with a grin of satisfaction, when the
+Count had taken out the key; "here are your hat and cloak."</p>
+
+<p>"My hat, if you like," the young man remarked, laughingly, "but why
+my cloak? I run no risk of catching a pleurisy in my short walk to the
+Governor's presence."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you not take it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly not."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I will; you'll see you will want it."</p>
+
+<p>The young gentleman shrugged his shoulders, without replying, and they
+left the room, the door of which the gaoler did not take the trouble to
+lock after him.</p>
+
+<p>The Major was walking up and down his room while awaiting the prisoner.
+La Grenade showed him in, laid the cloak on a chair, and withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah!" said the Major, with a laugh&mdash;"I see that you suspected
+something."</p>
+
+<p>"I, Mr. Governor? What was it, if you please?"</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds! you appear to be dressed as if for a journey."</p>
+
+<p>"It is that ass of La Grenade, who, I know not for what reason, obliged
+me to put on my hat, and insisted on bringing my cloak here."</p>
+
+<p>"He was right."</p>
+
+<p>"How so?"</p>
+
+<p>"My lord, I have the honour to inform you that you are a free man."</p>
+
+<p>"I free!" the Count exclaimed, turning pale with joy and emotion.</p>
+
+<p>"The King has deigned to sign your liberation, and I received the
+orders on landing at Antibes."</p>
+
+<p>"At last!" the Count burst forth, but then immediately recovered
+himself. "Can you show me the order, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Excuse me, my lord, that is forbidden."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! For what reason?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is a general precaution, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case I will not press it: at least, you are permitted to tell
+me at whose request my liberty was granted me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I see no objection to that, sir&mdash;it was at the request of the Duc de
+Bellegarde."</p>
+
+<p>"The dear Duke!&mdash;a real friend!" the Count cried, in great emotion.</p>
+
+<p>The Major, with the utmost coolness, handed him a pen, and pointed to a
+blank space in the register.</p>
+
+<p>"Will you be kind enough, sir, to sign this register?"</p>
+
+<p>The Count hurriedly perused it, and saw that it was a species of
+certificate of the honourable way he had been treated during the period
+of his detention. He signed.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, sir, as I am free, for I presume I am so&mdash;" "Free as a bird, my
+lord."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case I can retire. I know not why, but during the last instant
+these thick, gloomy walls, seem to stifle me, and I shall not breathe
+at my ease till I feel myself in the open air."</p>
+
+<p>"I understand that, sir. I have made every preparation, and we will
+embark whenever you please."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>We?</i>" the Count asked, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lord, I shall accompany you."</p>
+
+<p>"For what reason, may I ask?"</p>
+
+<p>"To do you honour, sir&mdash;for no other reason."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," he said, thoughtfully; "let us go, then; but I have some
+traps here."</p>
+
+<p>"They are already on board: come, sir."</p>
+
+<p>The Major took up his valise and casket, and left the room, followed by
+the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"Did I not tell you you would want your cloak?"</p>
+
+<p>La Grenade said to M. de Barmont, with a bow, as he passed&mdash;"Pleasant
+voyage to you, sir, and good luck."</p>
+
+<p>They went down to the waterside. During the walk, which was not very
+long, the Count's brow became more and more clouded; he fancied he
+could notice a certain sorrow on the faces of the officers and soldiers
+who were watching his departure&mdash;they whispered together, and pointed
+to the Count in anything but a reassuring way, and it gave him much
+cause for anxiety.</p>
+
+<p>Every now and then he took a side-glance at the Major, but he appeared
+calm, and had a smile on his face.</p>
+
+<p>They at length reached the boat, and the Major stepped aside to let the
+Count get into it first.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as they were both in, the boat was pushed off. During the whole
+passage from the shore to the lugger the Count and the Major remained
+silent.</p>
+
+<p>At length they came along side the little vessel, a rope was thrown to
+them, and they went up the side.</p>
+
+<p>The yawl was immediately hauled up, all sail was set, and the lugger
+stood out to sea.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" the Count exclaimed on perceiving Michael, "You are here, then I
+am saved!"</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so," the latter replied; "but come, my lord, we have matters to
+discuss."</p>
+
+<p>They went down into the cabin, followed by the Major.</p>
+
+<p>"There, now we can talk, Captain&mdash;the first thing is to settle our
+accounts."</p>
+
+<p>"Our accounts?" M. de Barmont repeated, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, let us proceed regularly. You promised this gentleman 50,000
+livres?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I did."</p>
+
+<p>"And you authorize me to give them to him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly."</p>
+
+<p>"Good; in that case he shall have them." Then, turning to the
+Major&mdash;"You have scrupulously kept your promises, and we will keep ours
+as loyally. Here, in the first place, is your diamond, which I give you
+back: I will hand you over the money in a moment. I suppose you no more
+wish to remain in France than we do&mdash;eh?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not wish it the least in the world," the Major replied, delighted
+at having regained possession of his diamond.</p>
+
+<p>"Where would you like to be landed? Will England suit you, or do you
+prefer Italy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I do not exactly know."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you like Spain better? 'Tis all the same to me."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not Portugal?"</p>
+
+<p>"Done for Portugal. We will drop you there in passing."</p>
+
+<p>The Count had listened with growing surprise to this conversation,
+which was incomprehensible to him.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the meaning of all this?" he at length asked.</p>
+
+<p>"It means, Captain," Michael distinctly answered, "that the King has
+not signed the pardon&mdash;that you are a prisoner, and would probably have
+remained so all your life had not this gentleman, luckily for you,
+consented to open the door."</p>
+
+<p>"Sir!" the Count exclaimed, making a movement toward the Major.</p>
+
+<p>Michael stopped him.</p>
+
+<p>"Do not be in a hurry to thank him," he said&mdash;"wait till he has told
+you what has occurred, and in what way he found himself obliged to set
+you at liberty, when he would probably have preferred not to do so."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come!" said the Count, stamping his foot passionately&mdash;"Explain
+yourself! I understand nothing of all this. I wish to know
+everything&mdash;everything, I tell you!"</p>
+
+<p>"This man will tell you it, Captain; but he is afraid at present of the
+consequences of his confession, and that is why he hesitates to make
+it."</p>
+
+<p>M. de Barmont smiled disdainfully.</p>
+
+<p>"This man is beneath my contempt," he said; "whatever he may say I will
+not take the slightest vengeance on him&mdash;he is pardoned beforehand, I
+pledge him my word as a gentleman."</p>
+
+<p>"Now speak, Major," said Michael; "during that time I will go on deck
+again with Skipper Nicaud, or, if you prefer it, Bowline, who has
+played his part remarkably well throughout the affair."</p>
+
+<p>Michael left the cabin, and the two men remained alone.</p>
+
+<p>The Major understood that it was better to make a clean breast of it:
+hence he told the Count, without any equivocation, the full details of
+his treachery, and in what manner Michael had compelled him to save
+him, when, on the contrary, he was paid to ruin him.</p>
+
+<p>Although the name of the Duc de Peņaflor had not once been mentioned
+during the Major's narration, the Count divined that it was he alone
+who had dealt him all the blows he had felt so severely during the last
+eighteen months; however great his resolution might be, this depth
+of hatred, this Machiavellian vengeance terrified him; but in this
+extremely detailed narrative one point seemed to him obscure, and that
+was, how Michael had discovered the final machinations of his enemies,
+and done so opportunely enough to be able to foil them.</p>
+
+<p>All the questions the Count asked on this head the Major was unable to
+answer, for he was ignorant.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," asked the sailor, suddenly entering the cabin, "are you now
+informed, Captain?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," the latter replied, with a certain tinge of sadness, "except on
+one point."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, Captain?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should like to know in what manner you detected this cleverly
+contrived plot."</p>
+
+<p>"Very simply, Captain, and I will tell you the whole affair in a couple
+of words. Bowline and I, without the Major suspecting it, followed him
+carefully into the ruins, while cautiously avoiding being seen; in this
+way no part of his conversation with the stranger escaped us. When the
+Major handed him the papers, and the stranger retired, I jumped at his
+throat, and, with Bowline's help, took the papers from him&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Where are these papers?" the Count interrupted him eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>"I will give them to you, Captain."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, Michael; now go on."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, my story's finished; I gagged him to prevent him calling out,
+and after tying him up like a plug of tobacco to stop him running after
+us, I left him there and went away."</p>
+
+<p>"What, you went away, Michael, leaving the man thus gagged and bound on
+a desert isle?"</p>
+
+<p>"What would you have had me do with him, Captain?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, perhaps it would have been better to kill him, than leave him
+exposed to such a horrible punishment."</p>
+
+<p>"He had been so precious tender to you, hadn't he, Captain? Stuff! Pity
+for such a ferocious brute would be madness on your part; besides, the
+fiend always protects his creatures, you may be sure, and I am certain
+that he has escaped."</p>
+
+<p>"How so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it, he didn't swim off to Saint Honorat; his people were probably
+concealed somewhere: tired of not seeing him return, they will have
+set out to seek him, and picked him up where I put him to bed; he will
+probably have got off with gnawing the bit for two or three hours."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that is possible, Michael, and even probable. Where are you
+taking us?"</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds, you are the commander here, Captain; we will go wherever you
+please."</p>
+
+<p>"I will tell you, but first let us land the Major, for I fancy he
+wishes to be free of our company as much as we do of his."</p>
+
+<p>At this moment Bowline's voice was heard.</p>
+
+<p>"Hilloh, Michael," he shouted, "we have a large vessel to windward."</p>
+
+<p>"Confusion!" said the sailor, "Has she hoisted her colours?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; she is a Norwegian."</p>
+
+<p>"That will be a good opportunity for you, Major," said the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"Eh, helmsman," Michael shouted, without awaiting the Major's answer,
+"steer down to the Norwegian."</p>
+
+<p>The Major considered it useless to protest.</p>
+
+<p>Two hours later the vessels were within speaking distance: the
+stranger was bound for Helsingfors, and the captain consented to take
+the passenger offered him.</p>
+
+<p>The Major was consequently transported on board, with everything
+belonging to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Captain," said Michael, when the boat had returned, "where shall
+we steer?"</p>
+
+<p>"Let us go to the islands," the Count answered sadly, "henceforth we
+shall only find a shelter there and taking a last glance at the coast
+of France, whose outline was beginning to fade away in the distant
+horizon," he muttered, with a sigh, and concealing his face sorrowfully
+in his hands, "Farewell, France!"</p>
+
+<p>In these two words was exhaled the last human feeling that remained at
+the bottom of the heart of this man who had been so tried by adversity,
+and who, vanquished by despair, was going to ask of the new world the
+vengeance which the old world so obstinately refused him.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE BEGINNING OF THE ADVENTURE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>The seventeenth century was a period of transition between the middle
+ages, that were exhaling their last sigh, and the modern era, which the
+great thinkers of the eighteenth century were destined to constitute so
+splendidly.</p>
+
+<p>Under the repeated blows of the implacable Cardinal de Richelieu,
+that gloomy filler of the unity of the despotic power of kings, an
+immense reaction had been effected in ideas. It was a silent reaction,
+that from the outset sapped the minister's work, and he was far from
+suspecting its causes or power. It was more especially in the latter
+half of the seventeenth century that the world offered a strange
+spectacle.</p>
+
+<p>At that period, the Spaniards, who were possessors, by the right of
+force, of the greater part of America, where they had multiplied
+colonies, were masters of the sea which the celebrated "broom of
+Holland" had not yet swept. The English navy was only beginning to
+be formed, and, in spite of the continuous efforts of Richelieu, the
+French navy was not in existence.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly several adventurers sprang up, no one knew whence, who, alone,
+castaways of civilization, men of all classes, from the highest to
+the most humble, belonging to all nations, but chiefly to the French,
+perched themselves like vultures on an imperceptible islet in the
+Atlantic, and undertook to contend against the Spanish power, after
+declaring a merciless war on their private authority. Attacking the
+Spanish fleet with unheard-of audacity, and, like a gadfly fastened to
+a lion's flank, holding in check the Spanish Colossus, they compelled
+it to treat with them on equal terms, with no other help but their
+courage and their energetic will.</p>
+
+<p>In a few years their incredible exploits and audacious coups de main
+inspired the Spaniards with such terror, and acquired for themselves
+such a great and merited reputation, that the disinherited of fortune,
+the seekers of adventures, flocked from all parts of the world to the
+island that served them as a refuge, and their number was so enormously
+augmented, that they almost succeeded in forming themselves into a
+nationality by the sole force of their will, and their boldness. Let
+us say in a few words, who these men were, and what was the origin of
+their strange fortune.</p>
+
+<p>For this purpose we must return to the Spaniards.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, after their immense discoveries in the New World, had
+obtained from Pope Alexander VI. a bull which conceded to them the
+exclusive possession of the two Americas.</p>
+
+<p>Supported by this bull, and considering themselves the sole owners of
+the New World, the Spaniards tried to keep all other nations away from
+it, and began to treat as corsairs all the vessels they came across
+between the two tropics.</p>
+
+<p>Their maritime power, and the important part they played at that time
+on the American continent did not leave the governments the power of
+protesting, as they would have desired, against this odious tyranny.</p>
+
+<p>Then it happened that English and French outfitters, excited by the
+thirst of gain, and paying no heed to the Spanish pretensions, equipped
+vessels which they dispatched to the so-coveted rich regions, to cut
+off the Spanish transports, plunder the American coast, and fire the
+town.</p>
+
+<p>Treated as pirates, these bold sailors frankly accepted the position
+offered them, committed awful excesses wherever they landed, carried
+off rich spoil, and despising the law of nations, and not caring
+whether the Spaniards were at war or not with the countries to which
+they belonged, they attacked them wherever they met them.</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniards, entirely engaged with rich possessions in Mexico, Peru,
+and generally on the Continent, which were mines of inexhaustible
+wealth for them, had committed the fault of neglecting the Antilles,
+which stretch from the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of Maracaibo, and
+only established colonies in the four large islands of that archipelago.</p>
+
+<p>Hidden in bays behind the windings of the coast, the adventurers dashed
+suddenly at the Spanish vessels, carried them by boarding, and then
+returned ashore to share the plunder.</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniards, in spite of the great number of their vessels, and the
+active watch they kept up, could no longer traverse the Caribbean Sea,
+which the adventurers had selected as the scene of their exploits,
+without running the risk of obstinate engagements with men, whom the
+smallness and lightness of their vessels rendered almost intangible.</p>
+
+<p>This wandering life possessed such charms for the adventurers, who had
+assumed the characteristic name of filibusters or freebooters, that
+for a long time the idea did not occur to them of forming a permanent
+settlement among the islands, which they employed as a temporary
+retreat.</p>
+
+<p>Things were in this state when, in 1625, a cadet of Normandy, of the
+name of d'Esnambuc, to whom the law of entail left no hope of fortune,
+except what he could acquire by his industry or courage, fitted out at
+Dieppe a brigantine of about seventy tons, on board which he placed
+four guns and forty resolute men, and set out to chase the Spaniards
+and try to enrich himself by some good prize.</p>
+
+<p>On arriving at the Caymans, small islands situated between Cuba and
+Jamaica, he suddenly came across the track of a Spanish vessel bearing
+thirty-five guns and a crew of three hundred and fifty men; it was a
+critical situation for the corsair.</p>
+
+<p>D'Esnambuc, without giving the Spaniards time to look about them,
+steered down and attacked them. The action lasted for three hours with
+extraordinary obstinacy; the Dieppois defended themselves so well, that
+the Spaniards despairing of conquest and having lost one-half their
+crew, were the first to decline fighting, and shamefully fled from the
+small vessel.</p>
+
+<p>Still, the latter had suffered severely, and could be hardly kept above
+water, ten men had been killed, and the rest of the crew, being covered
+with wounds, were not worth much more.</p>
+
+<p>As the isle of Saint Kitts was no great distance off, d'Esnambuc
+reached it with much difficulty, and took refuge there to careen his
+vessel, and cure his wounded. Then calculating, that, for the success
+of his future expeditions, he required a sure retreat, he resolved to
+establish himself on this island.</p>
+
+<p>St. Kitts, which the Caribs called Liamuiga, is situated in 17 to 18
+degrees N. latitude and 65 W. longitude. It is 23 leagues W.N.W. of
+Antigua, and about 3 leagues to the N.W. of Guadeloupe, and is one of
+the Caribbean Islands.</p>
+
+<p>The general aspect of this island is remarkably beautiful, it is
+commanded by Mount Misery, an extinct volcano, three thousand five
+hundred feet high, which occupies the whole northwest part, and
+gradually descends in lower ranges, till it dies away on the South in
+the plains of the Basse terre.</p>
+
+<p>The barrenness of the mountains forms a striking contrast with the
+fertility of the plains.</p>
+
+<p>The valleys display a really extraordinary wealth of vegetation, while
+the mountains only offer to the eye a confused chaos of broken rocks,
+whose interstices are filled up with a clayey matter that checks all
+vegetation.</p>
+
+<p>Water is rare, and of a bad quality, for the few streams that descend
+from Mount Misery are strongly impregnated with saline particles, to
+which strangers find a difficulty in growing accustomed.</p>
+
+<p>But a precious thing for the filibusters, Saint Kitts possesses two
+magnificent ports, well sheltered and easy of defence, and its coasts
+are serrated with deep bays, where, in case of danger, their light
+vessels would easily find a shelter.</p>
+
+<p>D'Esnambuc, on landing, found several refugee Frenchmen who lived on
+good terms with the Caribs, and who not only received him with open
+arms, but joined him and selected him as their leader.</p>
+
+<p>By a singular chance, on the same day that the Dieppois landed at St.
+Kitts, English freebooters commanded by Captain Warner, who had also
+suffered in an engagement with the Spaniards, took refuge at another
+point in it.</p>
+
+<p>The corsairs of the two nations who could not be separated by any
+idea of conquest, agriculture, or commerce, and who pursued the same
+object, fighting the Spaniards, and establishing a refuge against the
+common enemy, easily came to an understanding; then, after dividing the
+island, they settled down side by side, and lived for a long time on
+excellent terms, which nothing disturbed.</p>
+
+<p>On one occasion they even combined their arms against the Caribs, who,
+alarmed by the progress of their new settlement, attempted to expel
+them.</p>
+
+<p>The filibusters made a horrible carnage among the Indians, and forced
+them to implore for mercy.</p>
+
+<p>A few months after, Warner and d'Esnambuc put out to sea again; the
+latter proceeded to Paris, the former to London, each for the purpose
+of soliciting the protection of his government for the rising colony.</p>
+
+<p>As usual, these men, who at the beginning had only sought a temporary
+refuge, now felt a desire to see the development of a settlement
+founded by themselves, and which in a short time had assumed a real
+importance.</p>
+
+<p>Cardinal de Richelieu, ever disposed to favour projects tending to
+augment the foreign power of France, received the filibuster with the
+greatest distinction, entered into his views, and formed a company,
+called "The Company of the Islands," in order to promote the interests
+of the colony.</p>
+
+<p>The capital was 45,000 livres, of which Richelieu subscribed for his
+part 10,000.</p>
+
+<p>D'Esnambuc was invested with the supreme command.</p>
+
+<p>Among the claims stipulated in his commission there is one which we
+must quote, owing to its strangeness, for it imposed on white men in
+America a temporary slavery harsher even than that of the Negro.</p>
+
+<p>This is the clause, whose sinister consequences we shall see developed
+during the course of this story.</p>
+
+<p>"No labourer intended for the colony will be allowed to embark, unless
+he engages to remain for three years in the service of the company,
+which will have the right to employ him on any task it thinks proper,
+without granting him the right to complain or break the contract
+entered into by him."</p>
+
+<p>These labourers were called Engagés or "thirty-six monthers," a polite
+way of getting rid of the word slave.</p>
+
+<p>Captain Warner, who had been more highly favoured, returned with a
+large body of colonists. Still the good understanding was kept up for
+some time between the two nations; but the English took advantage of
+the weakness of the French, who could not oppose their usurpations, to
+encroach on their rights, and formed a fresh settlement at Nevis, the
+next island to St. Kitts.</p>
+
+<p>Still d'Esnambuc did not despair of the fate of the colony. He
+proceeded again to France, and solicited of the Cardinal help in men
+and money, to repulse the undertakings of his troublesome neighbours.</p>
+
+<p>Richelieu granted his request.</p>
+
+<p>By his orders, Rear Admiral de Cussac arrived at St. Kitts, with six
+heavily armed ships; he surprised ten English vessels in the roads,
+captured three, sank three others, and put the rest to flight.</p>
+
+<p>The English made no further attempts to leave their boundaries, and
+peace was re-established.</p>
+
+<p>M. de Cussac, after supplying the colony with rum and provisions, set
+sail, and went to found a settlement on St. Eustache, an island four
+leagues N. W. of St. Kitts.</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniards, however, who, since the appearance of the filibusters in
+American waters, had suffered so greatly from their depredations, saw
+them with great alarm settling permanently on the West India islands.</p>
+
+<p>They understood of what importance it was to them not to allow fixed
+settlements in these regions, unless they wished to see their colonies
+destroyed and their commerce ruined.</p>
+
+<p>They consequently resolved to act vigorously against those fellows whom
+they regarded as pirates, and to utterly destroy their lurking places,
+which had already acquired formidable proportions.</p>
+
+<p>In consequence Admiral don Fernando de Toledo, whom the court of
+Madrid had placed at the head of a powerful fleet, sent in 1630 to
+Brazil to fight the Dutch, received orders to destroy in passing, the
+viper's nest formed by the filibusters at St. Kitts.</p>
+
+<p>The sudden apparition of this immense force off the island filled the
+inhabitants with stupor. The united resources of the English and French
+adventurers and their desperate courage were not sufficient to avert
+the danger that menaced them, and repulse so formidable an attack.</p>
+
+<p>After a desperate fight, in which a great number of filibusters,
+especially Frenchmen, were killed, the others got into their light
+canoes and fled to the adjacent isles of St. Bartholomew, Antigua, St.
+Martin, and Montserrat, or to any place in short where they hoped to
+find a temporary refuge.</p>
+
+<p>The English, we are unfortunately compelled to state, shamefully
+fled at the beginning of the action, and eventually asked leave to
+capitulate.</p>
+
+<p>One half of them were sent to England on board Spanish ships, while the
+rest engaged to evacuate the island as soon as possible,&mdash;a promise
+which was forgotten immediately after the departure of the Spanish
+fleet.</p>
+
+<p>This expedition was the only one that Spain seriously attempted against
+the filibusters.</p>
+
+<p>The French soon left the islands where they had sought refuge, and
+returned to St. Kitts, where they re-established themselves, though
+not without a quarrel with the English, who had taken advantage of the
+opportunity to seize their land, but whom they forced again beyond
+their old borders.</p>
+
+<p>It is a singular fact, which proves that the filibusters were not
+bandits and nameless men, as attempts have been made to brand them,
+that the inhabitants of St. Kitts were remarkable beyond all the
+other colonists for the gentleness and urbanity of their manners; the
+traditions of politeness left by the first Frenchmen who settled there,
+have been maintained even to the present day; in the eighteenth century
+it was called the Gentle Island, and there is a proverb in the Antilles
+to the effect, that "the nobility were at St. Kitts, the citizens at
+Guadeloupe, the soldiers at Martinique, and the peasants at Grenada."</p>
+
+<p>Things remained for a long time in the state we have just described;
+the filibusters, growing bolder and bolder through the Spanish
+cowardice, enlarged the scene of their exploits, and retaining a bitter
+memory of the sack of their island, felt a double hatred for the
+Spaniards, who had branded them with the name of Ladrones (robbers).
+They no longer displayed any moderation, and seated in the light canoes
+that composed their entire fleet, they watched for the rich transports
+from Mexico, dashed boldly aboard them, carried them, and returned to
+St. Kitts loaded with plunder.</p>
+
+<p>The colony prospered, the land was well cultivated, and the plantations
+were carefully made.</p>
+
+<p>For these men, the majority of whom had no hope left of ever returning
+to their native land, had performed their work with the feverish
+ardor of people who are creating for themselves a new nationality
+and preparing a last asylum, so that only a few years after the
+destruction of the colony by the Spaniards, St. Kitts had again become
+a flourishing colony, thanks in the first instance to its fertility and
+the energy and intelligence of its inhabitants, but above all to the
+incessant toil of the engagés of the company.</p>
+
+<p>We have now to explain what these poor fellows were and the fate they
+met with at the hands of the colonists.</p>
+
+<p>We have already stated that the company sent to the islands, men whom
+they had engaged for three years.</p>
+
+<p>They accepted anybody, workmen belonging to all trades, even surgeons
+who, persuading themselves that they were destined to carry on their
+own profession in the colonies, allowed themselves to be seduced by the
+fair promises which the company did not hesitate to lavish.</p>
+
+<p>But once their consent was given, that is to say, signed, the company
+regarded them as men belonging to it body and soul; and when they
+reached the colonies, agents <i>sold</i> then for three years to the
+planters, at the rate of thirty or forty crowns a head, and did so in
+the broad daylight and in the governor's presence.</p>
+
+<p>They thus became real slaves, subject to the adventurers of the colony,
+and condemned to the rudest tasks.</p>
+
+<p>Hence, the poor wretches, so unworthily abused, beaten terribly and
+worn out by a fatigue under a deadly climate, generally succumbed ere
+they had attained the third year, which was to set them at liberty.</p>
+
+<p>This was carried so far that the masters at last attempted to prolong
+the stipulated slavery beyond three years. Toward the end of 1632, the
+colony of St. Kitts incurred great dangers, for the engagés whose time
+was up and whom their masters refused liberty, took up arms, organized
+a resistance, and prepared to attack the colonists with that energy of
+desperation which no force can resist. M. d'Esnambuc only succeeded in
+making them lay down their arms and arrest bloodshed by conceding their
+just demands.</p>
+
+<p>At a later date, when the sad condition in which the company's agents
+placed the engagés, became known in France, it became almost impossible
+for the latter to find volunteers; hence they were obliged to go about
+the roads and highways to enlist vagabonds whom they intoxicated and
+induced to sign, while in that condition, an engagement which it was
+impossible to break.</p>
+
+<p>We will dwell the more earnestly on this point, because during the
+course of our narrative, we shall have frequently to revert to the
+engagés. We will only add one word about the wretches whom England sent
+to the colonies under the same conditions.</p>
+
+<p>If the fate of the French engagés was frightful, that of the English,
+history proves to us, was horrible.</p>
+
+<p>They were treated with the most atrocious barbarity. They formed an
+engagement for seven years, and then, at the end of that time, when
+the moment to regain their liberty had at length arrived, they were
+intoxicated, and advantage was taken of their condition to make them
+sign a second engagement for the same period.</p>
+
+<p>Cromwell, after the sack of Drogheda, sold more than 30,000 Irish for
+Jamaica and Barbados.</p>
+
+<p>Nearly two thousand of these wretched succeeded in escaping on board a
+vessel, which, in their ignorance of navigation, they allowed to drift
+and the current cast it ashore at Saint Domingo. The poor fellows, not
+knowing where they were, and being without food or resources, all died
+of hunger. Their piled-up bones, bleached by time, remained for several
+years on Cape Tiburón, at a spot which was called Irish Bay on account
+of the terrible catastrophe, and still bears the name.</p>
+
+<p>The reader will pardon us for having entered into such lengthened
+details about the establishment of the filibusters of St. Kitts; but
+as it was on this little island that the terrible association of
+adventurers, whose history we have undertaken to tell, had its birth,
+it is necessary to make the reader fully acquainted with these facts,
+so that we might not be obliged to return to them hereafter. Now, we
+will resume our narrative to which the preceding chapters serve, so to
+speak, as a prologue, and leaping at one bound across the space that
+separates Sainte Marguerite from the Caribbean islands, we will proceed
+to St. Kitts a few months after the escape, for we dare not say the
+liberation, of Count Ludovic de Barmont Senectaire.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE COUNCIL OF THE FILIBUSTERS.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Several years elapsed without producing any notable changes in the
+colony.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers still continued, with the same obstinacy, their
+expeditions against the Spaniards; but as their expeditions were
+isolated, and had no sort of organization, the losses experienced by
+the Spaniards, though very great, were much less considerable than
+might be anticipated.</p>
+
+<p>About this time, a lugger manned by forty resolute men, and armed with
+four iron guns, anchored off St. Kitts, proudly displaying the French
+flag at its stern.</p>
+
+<p>This vessel brought to the colony a fresh contingent of brave
+adventurers.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately after their arrival, they landed, formed the acquaintance
+of the inhabitants, and testified a desire to settle on the island.</p>
+
+<p>The chief, to whom his comrades gave the name of Montbarts, and
+for whom they appeared to have an unbounded devotion, informed the
+colonists, that like them, he professed a profound hatred for the
+Spaniards, and that he was followed by two ships of that nation, which
+he had captured, and had given the prize masters orders to steer for
+St. Kitts.</p>
+
+<p>These good men were received with shouts of joy by the inhabitants, and
+Montbarts had a narrow escape from being carried in triumph.</p>
+
+<p>As he had announced, three or four days later two Spanish vessels
+anchored at St. Kitts. They bore at their stern the Castilian flag
+reversed, in sign of humiliation, while above it proudly fluttered the
+French ensign.</p>
+
+<p>There was one horrible circumstance, however, which chilled even the
+bravest with horror. These vessels bore at their bowsprit, and at their
+cross-jack, as well as at the main and foreyard, groups of corpses. By
+Montbarts order, the crews of the two vessels had been hung, without
+showing mercy even to a boy.</p>
+
+<p>The chief of the adventurers generously gave the cargo of the two ships
+to the colonists, only asking for sufficient land in return, on which
+to build a house.</p>
+
+<p>This request was at once granted; the newcomers then disarmed their
+lugger, came ashore, and began their installation.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts was a young man of about seven or eight-and-twenty, with
+manly and marked features, and a fixed and piercing eye. The expression
+of his face was essentially sad, mocking, and cruel: a dead pallor;
+spread over his face, added, were it possible, a strangeness to his
+whole person. Tall and powerfully built, though supple and graceful,
+his gestures were elegant and noble, while his speech was soft, and
+the terms he employed were carefully chosen. He exercised a singular
+fascination over those who approached him, or whom accident brought
+into relation with him. They felt at once repulsed and attracted by
+this singular man, who seemed the only one of his species on the earth,
+and who, without appearing to be anxious for it, imposed his will upon
+all, gained obedience by a sign or a frown, and who only seemed to live
+when he was in the thick of a fight, when fires crossed above his head,
+forming him an aureole of flame, when corpses were piled up around him,
+when blood flowed beneath his feet, and when bullets whistled in his
+ears, and when he rushed drunk with powder and carnage upon the deck of
+a Spanish ship.</p>
+
+<p>Such was what was said of him by his comrades, and by those who had
+been struck by his singular countenance, and wished to know him: but
+beyond this moral and physical portrait of the man, it was impossible
+to obtain the slightest information as to his past life. Not one of the
+sailors who came with him knew the slightest episode of it, or, as was
+probable, refused to discover anything.</p>
+
+<p>Hence, when the colonists perceived that all their questions would
+remain unanswered, they gave up the useless task of asking them. They
+accepted Montbarts for what it pleased him to be, the more so, as his,
+former life not only did not concern them, but also interested them
+very slightly.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurer only remained ashore for the period strictly necessary
+to establish his household comfortably; then, one day, without warning
+anybody, he went on board his lugger with the crew he had brought
+with him, only leaving five or six men at St. Kitts to manage his
+plantation, and set sail. A month after, he returned, having in tow
+a richly laden Spanish vessel, with the crew hanging to the yards as
+before.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts went on thus for a whole year, never remaining more than two
+or three days ashore, then going off, and returning with a prize with
+its entire crew suspended from the yards.</p>
+
+<p>Matters attained such a pitch, the audacity of the daring corsair was
+crowned with such success, that the rumour of it reached France. Then,
+the Dieppe adventurers, comprehending all the profit they might derive
+from this interloping war, fitted out vessels, and went to join the
+colonists of St. Kitts, for the purpose of organising a hunt of the
+Spaniards, and carrying it out on a grand scale.</p>
+
+<p>Filibusterism was about to enter on its second phase, and become a
+regular association.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts had built his hatto, or principal residence, at the spot
+where the English afterwards formed Sandy-point battery.</p>
+
+<p>It was an excellently chosen position, militarily speaking, where, in
+case of attack, it was easy not only to act on the defensive, but also
+to repulse the enemy with serious loss.</p>
+
+<p>This hatto, built of trunks of trees, and covered with palm leaves,
+stood nearly at the extremity of a cape, whence the greater part of
+the island and the sea for a considerable distance on the right and
+left could be commanded. This cape, which was nearly precipitous,
+and one hundred and fifty feet high seawards, could only be reached
+by a narrow, rough path, intersected at regular distances by strong
+palisades, and wide, deep ditches, which had to be crossed on planks,
+that were easy to remove. Two four-pounder guns, placed in position at
+the head of the path guarded the approaches.</p>
+
+<p>This hatto was divided into four rather large rooms, furnished with a
+luxury and comfort rather singular in an out-of-the-way island like St.
+Kitts, but which was fully justified by the usual occupation of the
+owner, who merely required to take any furniture that suited him out of
+his prizes.</p>
+
+<p>A long pole, serving as a flagstaff, planted in front of the door of
+the hatto, displayed in the breeze a white ensign with a red jack in
+the right hand top corner. This flag was that of the corsairs, which
+Montbarts sometimes changed for one all black, having in its centre a
+death's head and crossbones, all white. This was an ill-omened flag,
+which, when hoisted at the peak, signified that the conquered had no
+hope of mercy to expect.</p>
+
+<p>It was a warm day towards the end of May, about eighteen months after
+Montbarts' arrival at St. Kitts. Several persons, stern looking and
+rough mannered, almost armed to the teeth, were conversing together as
+they followed the path that led from the plain to the platform on which
+Montbarts' hatto stood.</p>
+
+<p>It was nearly ten o'clock at night, and the sky was transparent and
+clear. Thousands of stars sparkled in the heavens, the moon profusely
+shed her white light, and the atmosphere was so pellucid, that the
+smallest objects were visible at a long distance. There was not a
+breath in the air, or a rustle among the leaves; the sea, calm as
+a mirror, died away with a soft and mysterious murmur on the sandy
+beach; the fireflies buzzed noisily, and at times dashed against the
+pedestrians, who contented themselves with driving them away with their
+hands, without, on that account, interrupting a conversation which
+seemed greatly to interest them.</p>
+
+<p>These men were five in number, and all in the prime of life. Their
+features were energetically marked, and their faces revealed audacity
+and resolution carried to the highest pitch. Their slightly curved
+shoulders, and the way in which they straddled their legs in walking,
+while swaying their arms, would have caused them to be recognised as
+sailors at the first glance, had not their dress sufficiently proved
+the fact.</p>
+
+<p>They were talking in English.</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff!" one of them was saying at the moment when we join in their
+conversation; "We must see. All that glistens is not gold, as they say
+down there. Besides, I wish for nothing better than to be mistaken,
+after all."</p>
+
+<p>"No matter," another replied; "in accordance with your laudable custom,
+you begin by expressing a doubt."</p>
+
+<p>"Not at all," the first speaker sharply interposed; "a fear, at the
+most."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," a third said; "we shall soon know what we have to expect, for
+here we are halfway up the path, thank Heaven!"</p>
+
+<p>"That demon of a Montbarts," the first went on, "has famously chosen
+his position. His hatto is impregnable, on my word as a man."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. I do not think that the <i>gavachos</i><a name="FNanchor_1_1" id="FNanchor_1_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a> will ever venture to
+attempt an escalade. But, by the way," he added suddenly, and halted;
+"suppose we are taking a useless walk, and Montbarts is not at home?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will answer for your finding him at home, Red Stocking, so set your
+mind at rest."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you know?" asked the man addressed by this singular name.</p>
+
+<p>"My God! Don't you see his flag hoisted at the masthead?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true. I had not noticed it."</p>
+
+<p>"But now you see it, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should be blind if I didn't."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," one of the filibusters said, who had hitherto maintained
+silence; "all this does not tell us why the meeting is to be held. Do
+you know anything about it, brother?"</p>
+
+<p>"No more than you," Red Stocking replied. "It is probably some daring
+project which Montbarts is meditating, and wishes us to take a part in."</p>
+
+<p>"But you know that he has not only summoned us, but also the principal
+French filibusters?"</p>
+
+<p>"In that case I am quite at sea," Red Stocking remarked. "However, it
+is of little consequence at present, as I presume we shall soon know
+what is wanted of us."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, because we have arrived."</p>
+
+<p>In fact, they reached at this moment the head of the path, and found
+themselves on the platform exactly facing the hatto, whose door was
+open as if inviting them to enter.</p>
+
+<p>A very bright light poured through the doorway, and the sound of loud
+talking testified that there was a rather large gathering inside the
+hatto.</p>
+
+<p>The Englishmen continued to advance, and soon found themselves on the
+threshold.</p>
+
+<p>"Come in, brothers," Montbarts' harmonious voice was heard saying from
+the interior; "come in, we are waiting for you."</p>
+
+<p>They entered.</p>
+
+<p>Six or seven persons were assembled in the room, which they entered:
+they were the most renowned chiefs of the filibusters. Among them were
+Belle Tęte (handsome head), the ferocious native of Dieppe, who had
+murdered more than three hundred of his engagés, whom he accused of
+dying of indolence; Pierre le Grand, the Breton, who always boarded
+the Spanish galleons in the disguise of a female; Alexandre Bras de
+fer (iron arm), a young and apparently frail and delicate man, with
+effeminate features, but in reality endowed with a prodigious and
+herculean vigour, and destined hereafter to become one of the heroes of
+the buccaneering trade; Roc, surnamed the Brazilian, although born at
+Groningen, a town in East Friesland; and lastly, two old acquaintances
+of ours, Bowline and Michael the Basque, who both arrived at St. Kitts
+at the same time as Montbarts, and whose reputation as filibusters was
+already great.</p>
+
+<p>As for the English, who had just entered the hatto, five in number;
+they were Red Stocking, whose name was mentioned in the preceding
+conversation; Morgan, a young man hardly eighteen years of age, with
+a haughty face and aristocratic manners; Jean David, a Dutch sailor,
+settled in the eastern part of the island; Bartholomew, a Portuguese,
+also settled in the English colony; and lastly, William Drake, who had
+taken an oath never to attack the Spaniards, unless they were in the
+proportion of fifteen to one, so great was the contempt he professed
+for the proud nation.</p>
+
+<p>It was, as we see, a select gathering of all the great filibusters of
+the day.</p>
+
+<p>"You are welcome, brothers," said Montbarts; "I am glad to see you, for
+I was awaiting you impatiently. Here are pipes, tobacco, and spirits;
+smoke and drink," he added, pointing to a table placed in the centre
+of the room.</p>
+
+<p>The filibusters sat down, lighted pipes, and filled glasses.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," Montbarts resumed a moment later, "I have requested you to
+come to my hatto for two reasons of great importance, and of which the
+second necessarily depends on the first: are you prepared to listen to
+me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, Montbarts," William Drake answered in the name of all; "you,
+whom the gavachos have surnamed the Exterminator, a name I envy you,
+brother, for you can only wish the good of filibustering."</p>
+
+<p>"That is the very subject," Montbarts answered.</p>
+
+<p>"I was sure of it, brother. Speak, we will listen to you religiously."</p>
+
+<p>They prepared to listen attentively. All these energetic men, who
+recognised no laws but those themselves had made, knew not what envy
+was, and were ready to discuss with the most entire good faith the
+proposals which they foresaw Montbarts desired to make to them.</p>
+
+<p>The latter reflected for a moment, and then spoke in a gentle voice,
+whose sympathetic accent soon captivated his audience.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," he said, "I will be brief, for you are picked men, with
+warm hearts and firm hands, with whom a long speech is not only
+useless, but also ridiculous Since my arrival at St. Kitts, I have
+been studying filibustering, its life, manners, and aspirations, and
+I have recognised with sorrow that the results do not justify its
+efforts. What are we doing? Nothing, or almost nothing. In spite of our
+indomitable courage, the Spaniards laugh at us; too weak, owing to
+our isolation, to inflict serious losses on them, we expend our energy
+in vain; we shed our blood, to take from them a few wretched vessels.
+It is not thus that matters ought to go on; this is not the vengeance
+which each of us dreamed of. What is the cause of our relative weakness
+toward our formidable enemy? The isolation, to which I alluded just
+now, and which will forever paralyze our efforts."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true," Red Stocking muttered.</p>
+
+<p>"But how can we alter it?" David asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Alas!" William Drake added, "The remedy is unfortunately impossible."</p>
+
+<p>"We are adventurers merely, and not a power," said Belle Tęte.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts smiled&mdash;that pale, peculiar smile of his, which turned the
+heart cold.</p>
+
+<p>"You are mistaken, brothers," he said, "the remedy is found; if we
+like, we shall soon be a power."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, speak, brother," all the adventurers exclaimed, springing up.</p>
+
+<p>"This is my plan, brothers," he continued; "we are here twelve, of all
+nations, but with one heart; the flower of filibusterism, I declare
+loudly; without fear of contradiction, for each of us has furnished
+proofs of it, and what proofs! Well, let us join and form a family;
+from our share of the prizes let us set aside a sum intended to form
+the common treasury, and while remaining at liberty to organize private
+expeditions, let us swear never to injure or thwart one another, to
+offer mutual help when needed, to labour with all our power to the
+ruin of Spain, and while keeping our association secret from our
+comrades and brothers, to combine our forces when the moment arrives to
+crush our implacable enemy at one blow. Such, brothers, is the first
+proposal I have to make to you. I await your answer."</p>
+
+<p>There was a momentary silence; the filibusters understood the
+importance of their brother's proposal, and the strength it would give
+them in the future. They exchanged glances, whispered together, and at
+length William Drake replied in the name of all&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Brother," he said, "you have just elucidated in a few words a question
+which has hitherto remained in obscurity. You have perfectly defined
+the cause of our weakness, by finding at the same time, as you promised
+us, not the remedy, but the means to render an association hitherto due
+to accident and almost useless, really formidable and useful: but this
+is not all. This association, to which you allude, requires a head to
+direct it, and ensure the success of its efforts at the right moment.
+It is therefore necessary that while our association remains secret,
+and, as it were, not in existence at all, in every point that does
+not affect its object, one of us should be appointed chief; a chief,
+the more powerful, because we shall be devoted to him, and aid him in
+working for the general good."</p>
+
+<p>"Is this really your opinion, brothers?" Montbarts asked. "Do you
+accept my proposal such as I made it, and as William Drake has modified
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"We accept it so," the filibusters replied with one voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. Still I think that this chief, to whom you refer, should
+be unanimously elected by us; that his authority may be taken from him
+at a meeting of the assembly by a majority of voices, if he do not
+strictly fulfil the conditions he has accepted; that, as guardian of
+the treasury, he must always be ready to furnish his accounts, and
+that his appointment should not exceed five years, unless renewed."</p>
+
+<p>"All that is fair," said Red Stocking; "no one can understand the
+general good better than you, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"Hence," David remarked, "we shall be partners; no quarrel, no
+dissension can well be possible among us."</p>
+
+<p>"While ostensibly retaining our free will and most complete
+independence," Belle Tęte reminded.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," Montbarts replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, brothers," said Drake, rising, and doffing his cap, "listen to
+me: I, William Drake, swear on my faith and honour, the most complete
+devotion to the association of the Twelve, submitting myself beforehand
+to undergo the punishment my brothers may please to inflict on me, even
+death, if I were to betray the secret of the Association, and break my
+oath. Heaven help me!"</p>
+
+<p>After Drake each filibuster uttered the same oath in a firm voice, and
+with a solemn accent.</p>
+
+<p>They resumed their seats.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," said Montbarts, "what we have hitherto done is nothing;
+it is only the dawn of the new era which is about to open, for the
+glorious days of filibustering are beginning&mdash;twelve men like us,
+united by the same thought, must perform miracles."</p>
+
+<p>"We will do so, be assured, brother," Morgan said, as he carelessly
+picked his teeth with a gold pin.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, brothers, before I submit my second proposal to you, I believe we
+had better elect a president."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true," said David; "as the company is formed, let us elect the
+president."</p>
+
+<p>"One word first," said Michael the Basque, stepping into the centre of
+the circle.</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish to add this: every member of the Association who falls into the
+hands of the gavachos shall be delivered by the other members, whatever
+perils they may have to incur in doing so."</p>
+
+<p>"We swear it!" the filibusters shouted enthusiastically.</p>
+
+<p>"Unless it is impossible," Morgan said.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing is impossible for us," William Drake remarked, rudely.</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, brother. You are right, I was mistaken," Morgan replied,
+with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"The society will be called that of The Twelve; only the death of
+a member will allow another to be admitted, and he must be chosen
+unanimously," Michael continued.</p>
+
+<p>"We swear it!" the filibusters exclaimed once more.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, brothers," said Bartholomew, "let us proceed to the election, by
+ballot, in order to protect the liberty of the vote."</p>
+
+<p>"There are pens, ink, and paper on that table, brothers," Montbarts
+remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"And here is my cap," Red Stocking said, with a laugh; "throw your
+votes into it."</p>
+
+<p>And, removing his beaver skin cap, the filibuster laid it on the ground
+in the middle of the room.</p>
+
+<p>Then the adventurers, with perfect order, rose one after the other, and
+in turn went to write their vote, which they deposited, after rolling
+up the paper, in Red Stocking's cap.</p>
+
+<p>Then all the adventurers returned to their seats:</p>
+
+<p>"Have we all voted?" David asked.</p>
+
+<p>"All!" the filibusters replied, in chorus.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, brother," Drake said to David, "since you hold the cap, proclaim
+the result."</p>
+
+<p>David questioned his comrades with a glance, and they bowed their heads
+in affirmation; then he took up the first roll that came to hand,
+opened it, and read&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Montbarts, the Exterminator."</p>
+
+<p>And passed on to a second.</p>
+
+<p>"Montbarts, the Exterminator," he read again.</p>
+
+<p>It was the same with the third, fourth, and so on up to the twelfth and
+last&mdash;all bore the words&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Montbarts, the Exterminator."</p>
+
+<p>It was a sinister challenge given to the Spanish nation, of whom this
+man was the most obstinate enemy.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts rose, took off his hat, and bowed gracefully to his comrades.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," he said, "I thank you&mdash;the confidence you place in me shall
+not be disappointed."</p>
+
+<p>"Long live Montbarts, the Exterminator!" all the filibusters shouted,
+impulsively.</p>
+
+<p>The terrible company of The Twelve was created. Filibusterism then
+really became a formidable power.</p>
+
+
+<div class="footnote">
+
+<p><a name="Footnote_1_1" id="Footnote_1_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_1_1"><span class="label">[1]</span></a> Term of contempt for the Spaniards.</p></div>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE SECOND PROPOSAL.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Montbarts allowed the enthusiasm of his comrades time to calm, and then
+spoke again.</p>
+
+<p>There was no change in his appearance; nothing in his face denoted
+the joy of triumph or of satisfied ambition; still the vote of his
+companions, by nominating him Chief of the filibusters, had rendered
+him in a moment a man more powerful than many a prince. His face was
+just as impassive, his voice equally firm.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," he said, "do you remember that I had a second proposal to
+make to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true," William Drake replied&mdash;"speak, brother, we are
+listening to you."</p>
+
+<p>"The second proposal is as follows: still, I must request you before
+answering me to reflect fully on it. Your opinion must not be lightly
+expressed, for, I repeat to you, and dwell on it in order that you may
+thoroughly understand me, this proposition is most serious and grave.
+In a word, it is this:&mdash;I propose to you to abandon the island of St.
+Kitts, and choose another place of refuge, more convenient, and, above
+all, safer for you."</p>
+
+<p>The filibusters gazed at him in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"I will explain," he said, stretching out his arms as if to request
+silence; "listen to me carefully, brothers, for what you are going to
+hear interests you all. Our refuge is badly chosen, and too remote from
+the centre of our expeditions; the difficulties we have to surmount in
+returning to it, in consequence of the currents that make our ships
+drift, and the contrary winds that oppose their speed, make us lose
+precious time. Now, the Caribbean archipelago is composed, of more
+than thirty islands, among which it is easy for us, it seems to me, to
+choose the one that suits us best. This idea which I bring before you
+today I have been revolving in my mind for a long time. I have not
+limited my expeditions to the pursuit of the gavachos. I have also made
+a voyage of discovery, and believe that I have found the spot suited
+for us."</p>
+
+<p>"Whereabouts is it, brother?" David asked, making himself spokesman for
+his companions.</p>
+
+<p>"I mean the island which the Spaniards call Hispaniola, and you know as
+St. Domingo."</p>
+
+<p>"But, brother," Bartholomew here interposed, "that island, which, I
+allow, is immense, and covered with magnificent forests, is inhabited
+by the Spaniards; if we went there it would be really placing ourselves
+in the wolf's throat."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought as you do before I had assured myself of the reality of the
+fact, but now I am certain of the contrary; not alone is the island
+only partially occupied by the gavachos, but we shall also find allies
+in the parties they have despised."</p>
+
+<p>"Allies!" the filibusters exclaimed, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, brothers, and in this wise.&mdash;When Don Fernando de Toledo attacked
+St. Kitts, the French who succeeded in escaping from the massacre
+took refuge on the adjacent islands, as you are aware; many of them
+went further, and reached St. Domingo, where they found a refuge.
+That was bold, was it not? But, I repeat to you, the Spaniards occupy
+scarce one-half of it. At the period of the discovery they left some
+horned cattle on the island; these beasts have propagated, and now
+exist in herds. The immense savannahs of St. Domingo are covered with
+innumerable herds of wild oxen which graze on all the uninhabited part;
+these herds, as you are aware, are a certain resource for revictualling
+our ships, and, moreover, the vicinity of the Spanish colonists offers
+us the means to satiate our hatred upon them; besides, our companions
+who have been established on the island for some years past wage an
+incessant and obstinate war upon them."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes," said Belle Tęte, pensively; "I understand what you are
+saying to us, brother. You are right up to a certain point; but let us
+discuss the matter quietly and coolly, like serious men."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak," Montbarts replied; "each of us has the right to express his
+opinion when the common interest is concerned."</p>
+
+<p>"Brave though we are, and we may boast of it frankly, for, thank
+heaven, our courage is well known, we are not strong enough for all
+that&mdash;at present at least&mdash;to measure ourselves against the Spanish
+power on land; there is a difference between capturing a ship and
+facing an entire population. You allow that, I suppose, brother?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly I do."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, I will go on. It is evident that the Spaniards, who up to
+the present have probably not noticed them, or, at any rate, owing
+to their small number and slight importance, have disdained the
+adventurers established on the desert part of the island; when they see
+that this establishment, which they supposed to be temporary, and due
+to the caprice of our brothers, is becoming permanent, and assuming the
+menacing proportions of a colony, they will refuse to permit it&mdash;what
+will happen then? This: they will collect all their forces, assail us
+suddenly, destroy us after a desperate resistance, and ruin at one
+blow, not only our new colony, but also our hopes of vengeance."</p>
+
+<p>These remarks of Belle Tęte, which displayed close logic, produced a
+certain effect on the filibusters, who began exchanging meaning looks;
+but Montbarts did not allow the spirit of opposition time to spread,
+and at once went on to say&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"You would be right, brother, if, as you suppose, we were to place our
+principal establishment on St. Domingo; it is evident that we should be
+crushed by numbers, and forced to retire disgracefully; but a man would
+know me badly if he supposed that I, who have an implacable hatred of
+these infamous gavachos, could possibly conceive such a plan for a
+moment, if I had not previously assured myself about its success, and
+the profit we shall derive from it."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, brother," Drake said, "explain yourself clearly; we are
+listening to you with the most earnest attention."</p>
+
+<p>"To the northwest of St. Domingo, and only separated from it by a
+narrow channel, there is an island about eight leagues long, surrounded
+by rocks called the iron coast, which render any landing impossible,
+except at the south, where there is a fine port, whose bottom is
+composed of sand, and where vessels are sheltered from all winds,
+which, besides, are not violent in those parts; there are also a few
+sandy bays scattered along the coast, but they are only approachable
+by canoes. This island is called Tortuga or Tortoise Island, owing
+to its shape, which slightly resembles that animal. Here it is,
+brothers, I propose that we should form our principal establishment,
+or, if you prefer it, our headquarters. The Port of Peace, and Port
+Margot, situated facing Tortoise Isle, will enable us to keep up an
+easy communication with St. Domingo: sheltered in our island, as in
+an impregnable fortress, we shall brave the efforts of the whole
+Spanish power. But I do not wish to deceive you, and must tell you
+everything; the Spaniards are on their guard; they have foreseen that
+if buccaneering goes on, that is to say, if they do not succeed in
+destroying us, the excellent position of that island would not escape
+our notice, and that we should probably attempt to seize on it: hence
+they have had it occupied by twenty-five soldiers, commanded by an
+alférez. Do not smile, brothers; although the garrison is small, it
+is sufficient, owing to the manner in which it is entrenched, and the
+difficulties a landing offers; and then, too, it can easily obtain
+reinforcements from the Grande Terre in a very short time. I have often
+landed in disguise on Tortoise Isle. I have inspected it with the
+greatest care, and hence you can attach the most entire confidence to
+the information I am giving you."</p>
+
+<p>"Montbarts is right," Yoc, the Brazilian, said at this moment; "I know
+Tortoise Isle, and, like him, I am persuaded that island will offer us
+a far surer and more advantageous shelter than St. Kitts."</p>
+
+<p>"Now, brothers," Montbarts resumed, "reflect, and answer yes or no. If
+you accept my offer I will prepare to realize my plan by seizing the
+island; if you refuse, I will never mention it again."</p>
+
+<p>And, in order by his absence to give more liberty for discussion, the
+adventurer left the room, and proceeded to the terrace in front of the
+hatto, where he began walking up and down, apparently indifferent to
+what was going on, but in his heart very anxious as to the result of
+the deliberation.</p>
+
+<p>He had only been walking up and down for a few minutes, when a slight
+whistle was audible a short distance off, so gently modulated, that
+it needed all the sharpness of hearing with which the filibuster was
+endowed, to catch it.</p>
+
+<p>He walked rapidly in the direction where this species of signal had
+been heard. At the same moment, a man lying on the ground, and so
+thoroughly concealed by the gloom that it was impossible to perceive
+him unless he was known to be there, raised his head, and displayed
+in the white moonbeams the copper face, and delicate and intelligent
+features of a Carib.</p>
+
+<p>"Omopoua?" the filibuster said.</p>
+
+<p>"I am waiting!" the Indian laconically answered, as he sprang up at one
+bound, and stood erect before him.</p>
+
+<p>Omopoua, that is to say, the leaper, was a young man of twenty-five
+years of age at the most, of a tall and admirably proportioned stature,
+whose skin had the gilded shade of Florentine bronze. He was naked,
+with the exception of thin canvas drawers, fastening round his hips,
+and falling nearly to his knees. His long, black hair, parted in the
+centre of his head, fell on his shoulders on either side. He had no
+other weapons but a long knife, and a bayonet passed through a cowhide
+belt.</p>
+
+<p>"Has the man arrived?" Montbarts asked.</p>
+
+<p>"He has."</p>
+
+<p>"Has Omopoua seen him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Does he fancy himself recognised?"</p>
+
+<p>"Only the eye of a determined foe could guess him beneath his disguise."</p>
+
+<p>"That is well! My brother will conduct me to him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will lead the pale chief."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! Where shall I find Omopoua an hour after sunrise?"</p>
+
+<p>"Omopoua will be in his hut."</p>
+
+<p>"I will come there;" and, hearing several voices calling him from the
+interior of the hatto, he said, "I reckon on the Indian's promise."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, if the chief keeps his."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall keep it."</p>
+
+<p>After exchanging a last meaning look with the filibuster, the
+Carib glided down the face of the cliff, and disappeared almost
+instantaneously.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts remained for a moment motionless, plunged in deep thought;
+then, giving a sudden start, and passing his hand over his forehead, as
+if to efface any sign of emotion, he hastily re-entered the hatto.</p>
+
+<p>The deliberation was ended. The filibusters had returned to their
+seats, and Montbarts went back to his, and waited with affected
+indifference, till one of his comrades thought proper to speak.</p>
+
+<p>"Brother," David then said, "we have thoroughly discussed your
+proposal. My comrades authorize me to tell you that they accept it, but
+they merely desire to know what means you intend to employ in carrying
+out your plan, and insuring its success?"</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers, I thank you," Montbarts replied, "for giving me your
+consent. As to the means I intend to employ in seizing Tortoise Isle,
+permit me, for the present, to keep them secret, as the success of the
+expedition depends on it. You need only be told that I do not wish to
+compromise the interests of anyone, and that I intend to run all the
+risk alone."</p>
+
+<p>"You do not understand me, brother, or else I have explained myself
+badly," David replied. "If I asked you in what way you proposed to act,
+I was not at all impelled by a puerile curiosity, but because, in so
+serious a question, which interests the entire association, we have
+resolved to accompany you, and to die or conquer with you. We wish
+to share the honour of the triumph, or assume a part of the defeat."
+Montbarts felt involuntarily affected by these generous words, so nobly
+pronounced; and by a spontaneous movement he held out his hands to the
+filibusters, who pressed them energetically, and said,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"You are right, brothers. We must all share in the great work which, I
+hope, will at length place us in the position to achieve great things.
+We will all go to Tortoise Island. But I will ask you&mdash;and believe me
+that I am not speaking thus through any ambitious motive&mdash;to let me
+conduct the expedition."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you not our chief?" the filibusters exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"We will obey you according to the laws of buccaneering," David added.
+"The man who conceives an expedition has alone the right to command. We
+will be your soldiers."</p>
+
+<p>"That is settled, brothers. Tomorrow morning, at eleven, after
+attending the sale of the new engagés, who arrived from France the
+day before yesterday, I will go to the governor, and tell him I am
+preparing a fresh expedition, and enlistment can begin at once."</p>
+
+<p>"Not one of us will be missing at the rendezvous," said Belle Tęte. "I
+must buy two engagés to fill the places of two idlers, who have just
+died of sheer idleness."</p>
+
+<p>"That is settled," said Bartholomew. "At eleven o'clock we will all be
+at Basse Terre."</p>
+
+<p>They then rose and prepared to retire: for the whole night had passed
+away in these discussions, and the sun, although still beneath the
+horizon, was already beginning to tinge it with a purple hue, that
+testified it would soon appear.</p>
+
+<p>"By the way," Montbarts said, with an indifferent air to Morgan, whom
+with the rest he accompanied to the head of the path; "if you are not
+greatly attached to your Carib&mdash;I forget how you call him&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Omopoua?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! yes. Well, I was saying that if you were not indisposed to part
+with him, I should feel obliged by your letting me have him."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. I think he will be useful to me."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, take him, brother. I yield him to you, although he is a
+good workman, and I am satisfied with him."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, brother. What value do you set on him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I will not bargain with you, brother. I saw a rather handsome
+fusil in your house. Give it to me, and take the Indian, and we shall
+be quits."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a minute, then."</p>
+
+<p>"Why?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because I will give you the fusil at once. You will send me the
+Indian; or, if I have time, I will call and fetch him during the day."</p>
+
+<p>The filibuster returned to the hatto, took down the fusil, and carried
+it to Morgan, who threw it on his shoulder with a movement of joy.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that is settled," he said. "Good-bye, for the present."</p>
+
+<p>"We shall meet again soon," Montbarts answered, and they separated.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts threw a thick cloak over his shoulders, put on a broad
+brimmed hat, whose brim fell over his face, and concealed his features,
+and then turning to Michael, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Mate, an important matter obliges me to go to Basse Terre; you will
+go to our governor, the Chevalier de Fontenay, and without entering
+into any details, and being very careful not to betray our secret, you
+will simply warn him that I am preparing a fresh expedition."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, mate, I will go," Michael answered.</p>
+
+<p>"You will then examine the lugger, and occupy yourself with Bowline, in
+getting her ready to put to sea."</p>
+
+<p>After giving these instructions to the two sailors, Montbarts left the
+house, and descended the cliff.</p>
+
+<p>The Chevalier de Fontenay, like M. d'Esnambuc, whom he had succeeded
+two years before as governor of St. Kitts, was a cadet of Normandy, who
+had come to the isles to try his fortune, and before becoming governor
+had joined in many buccaneering expeditions. He was exactly the man
+they wanted; he left them at liberty to act as they pleased, never
+asked them for any accounts, understood at half a word, and contented
+himself with raising a tithe on the prizes&mdash;a voluntary tribute which
+the adventurers paid him in return for the protection he was supposed
+to give them in the king's name by legitimating their position.</p>
+
+<p>The sun had risen, a fresh sea breeze caused the leaves to rustle, and
+the birds were singing on the branches. Montbarts walked on hurriedly,
+looking neither to the right nor left, and apparently plunged in deep
+thought.</p>
+
+<p>On reaching the entrance of the village of Basse Terre, instead of
+entering it, he skirted it, and going along a narrow path that crossed
+a tobacco plantation, he went toward the interior of the island,
+proceeding in the direction of Mount Misery, whose rise was already
+perceptible beneath his feet.</p>
+
+<p>After a very long walk, the filibuster at length stopped at the
+entrance of a dry gorge, on one of the slopes of which stood a wretched
+hut of tree trunks, poorly covered with palm leaves. A man was standing
+in the doorway of this cabin: on perceiving Montbarts he uttered a cry
+of joy and rushed toward him, running over the rocks with the rapidity
+and lightness of a deer.</p>
+
+<p>This man was Omopoua, the Carib; on coming up to the filibuster, he
+fell on his knees.</p>
+
+<p>"Rise," the adventurer said to him, "what have you to thank me for?"</p>
+
+<p>"My master told me an hour ago that I no longer belonged to him, but to
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, did I not promise it to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, but the white men always promise, and never keep their
+word."</p>
+
+<p>"You see a proof of the contrary; come, get up, your master has sold
+you to me, it is true, but I give you your liberty; you have now but
+one master, God."</p>
+
+<p>The Indian rose, laid his hand on his chest, tottered, his features
+were contracted, and for a moment he seemed suffering from a violent
+internal emotion, which in spite of all the power he had over himself,
+he could not succeed in mastering.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts, calm and gloomy, examined him attentively, while fixing a
+scrutinizing glance upon him.</p>
+
+<p>At length the Indian succeeded in speaking, though his voice issued
+from his throat like a whistle.</p>
+
+<p>"Omopoua was a renowned chief among his people," he said; "a Spaniard
+had degraded him by making him a slave, through treachery, and selling
+him like a beast of burden: you restore Omopoua to the rank from which
+he ought never to have descended. It is well, you lose a bad slave,
+but gain a devoted friend; were it not for you I should be dead&mdash;my
+life belongs to you."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts offered the Carib his hand, which he kissed respectfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you intend to remain at Saint Kitts, or would you like to return to
+Haiti?"</p>
+
+<p>"The family of Omopoua," the Indian replied, "and what remains of his
+people, are wandering about the savannahs of Bohis, but where you go, I
+will go."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, you shall follow me; now lead me to the man, you know whom."</p>
+
+<p>"At once."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you certain he is a Spaniard?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am."</p>
+
+<p>"You do not know for what motives he has entered the island?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not."</p>
+
+<p>"And at what place has he sought shelter?"</p>
+
+<p>"With an Englishman."</p>
+
+<p>"In the English colony there?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; at Basse Terre."</p>
+
+<p>"All the better. What is the Englishman's name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Captain William Drake."</p>
+
+<p>"Captain Drake!" Montbarts exclaimed with surprise, "It is impossible."</p>
+
+<p>"It is so."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, the Captain does not know him."</p>
+
+<p>"No; the man entered his house and asked for hospitality, and the
+Captain could not refuse it to him."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; go up to my hatto, take clothes, a fusil&mdash;in short, what
+weapons you like, and come to me at Captain Drake's; if I am no longer
+there, you will find me on the port; begone."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts then turned back, and proceeded toward Basse Terre, while the
+Carib went towards the hatto as the bird flies, according to Indian
+custom.</p>
+
+<p>Basse Terre was the entrepôt, or to speak more correctly, the
+headquarters of the French colony: at the period when our story is laid
+it was only a miserable township, built without order, according to the
+caprice or convenience of each owner, an agglomeration of huts, rather
+than a town, but producing at a distance a most picturesque effect
+through this very chaos of houses of all shapes and sizes, thus grouped
+along the seashore, in front of magnificent roads, filled with vessels
+swinging at their anchors, and constantly furrowed by an infinite
+number of canoes.</p>
+
+<p>A battery of six guns, built on an advanced point, defended the
+entrance of the roads.</p>
+
+<p>But in this town, apparently so mean, dirty, and wretched, it was
+possible to watch the circulation of the life full of sap, vigour, and
+violence belonging to the strange inhabitants, unique in the world, who
+formed its heterogeneous population. The narrow gloomy streets were
+crowded with people of every description and colour, who came and went
+with a busy air.</p>
+
+<p>There were pothouses at the corner of all the streets and squares,
+perambulating dealers shouted their goods in a ropy voice, and public
+criers, followed by a crowd which was swelled at every step by all the
+idlers, announced with a mighty noise of trumpets and drums, the sale
+on that very day of the engagés, who had just arrived in a Company's
+vessel.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts passed unnoticed through the crowd, and reached the door
+of Captain Drake's house&mdash;a rather handsome looking and cleanly kept
+house, which stood on the seashore at no great distance from the
+governor's residence.</p>
+
+<p>The filibuster pushed the door, which, according to the custom of the
+country, was not locked, and entered the house.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE SPY.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Montbarts, as we said, walked into the house.</p>
+
+<p>There were two persons in the first room, which was contrived a double
+debt to pay, as half sitting room, half kitchen.</p>
+
+<p>These two persons were an engagé of Captain Drake and a stranger.</p>
+
+<p>As for the Captain, he was absent at the moment.</p>
+
+<p>The filibuster's eye flashed at the sight of the stranger, and an
+ill-omened smile curled his pale lips.</p>
+
+<p>As for the latter, he was seated at a table in the middle of the room,
+and quietly breakfasting on a piece of cold bacon, washed down by a
+bottle of Bordeaux,&mdash;a wine, let us remark, parenthetically, which,
+though unknown in Paris till the reign of Louis XV., when the Duc de
+Richelieu brought it into fashion on his return from the government of
+Guyenne&mdash;had been for a long time appreciated in America.</p>
+
+<p>The stranger was of rather tall stature, with a pale face, and ascetic
+features, thin, bony, and angular; but his noble manners indicated a
+high rank in society, which rank his simple and even more than modest
+costume tried in vain to conceal.</p>
+
+<p>On the filibuster's entrance, the stranger, without raising his head,
+took a side-glance at him from under his long velvety eyelashes, and
+again became absorbed or appeared to be so, in the contemplation of
+the capital breakfast set before him.</p>
+
+<p>Everything was in common among the filibusters, everyone took from
+the other, whether he was at home or not, anything he wanted, arms,
+gunpowder, clothes or food, and the person from whom it was taken had
+no right to protest or make the slightest observation; this was not
+merely admitted and tolerated, but was regarded as a right which all
+took advantage of without the slightest scruple.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts, after looking round the room, took a chair, seated himself
+unceremoniously opposite the stranger, and turning to the engagé, said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Bring me some breakfast&mdash;I am hungry."</p>
+
+<p>The other, without venturing the slightest remark, immediately prepared
+to obey.</p>
+
+<p>In a very short time he had served up an excellent breakfast for the
+filibuster, and then took his place behind his chair to wait on him.</p>
+
+<p>"My friend," the filibuster said, carelessly, "I thank you; but when I
+take my meals I do not like to have anybody behind me. Leave the room,
+but remain in front of the house door;" and he added, with a singularly
+meaning glance, "let no one enter here without my orders: no one&mdash;you
+understand me?" he said, laying a stress on the words; "Not even your
+master, were he to come. Can I depend on you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Montbarts," said the engagé, and left the room.</p>
+
+<p>At the name of Montbarts, uttered by the servant, the stranger gave
+an almost imperceptible start, and fixed an anxious glance on the
+filibuster; but immediately recovering himself, he began eating again
+in the most perfect tranquillity, or at least apparently so.</p>
+
+<p>For his part, Montbarts went on eating without troubling himself, or
+seeming to trouble himself, about the guest seated just opposite to him.</p>
+
+<p>This performance went on for some minutes; no other sound was heard
+in the room, where such violent passions were smouldering, but that
+produced by the knives and forks scratching on the platters.</p>
+
+<p>At length Montbarts raised his head and looked at the stranger.</p>
+
+<p>"You are very taciturn, sir," he said to him, with the simple air of
+a man who is wearied at a lengthened silence, and wishes to get up a
+conversation.</p>
+
+<p>"I, sir?" the stranger replied, as he looked up in his turn with the
+calmest air; "Not that I am aware of."</p>
+
+<p>"Still, sir," the filibuster resumed, "I would remark, that during the
+quarter of an hour I have had the honour of passing in your company,
+you have not once addressed a syllable to me, not even in greeting."</p>
+
+<p>"Pray excuse me, sir," the stranger said, with a slight bow; "the
+fault is entirely involuntary: besides, as I have not the advantage of
+knowing you&mdash;?</p>
+
+<p>"Are you quite sure of that, sir?" the adventurer interrupted,
+ironically.</p>
+
+<p>"At least, I think so; hence, having nothing to say to you, I suppose
+that it would be useless to begin a conversation which would have no
+object."</p>
+
+<p>"Who knows, sir?" the filibuster remarked, jeeringly; "Conversations
+the most frivolous at the outset, frequently become very interesting at
+the expiration of a few minutes."</p>
+
+<p>"I doubt whether that would be the case with ours, sir. Permit me,
+therefore, to break it off at once. Besides, I have finished my
+meal," the stranger said, rising; "and some serious business claims
+my attention. Pray forgive me, therefore, for parting company so
+hurriedly, and believe in the sincerity of my regret."</p>
+
+<p>The adventurer did not leave his seat, but throwing himself back in it
+with a graceful nonchalance, while playing with the knife he held in
+his hand, he said in his gentle insinuating voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, my dear sir; only one word, pray."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case make haste, sir," the stranger replied, as he stopped,
+"for I am greatly pressed for time, I assure you."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! You will certainly grant me a few minutes," the adventurer
+remarked, with the old sarcasm.</p>
+
+<p>"As you desire it so eagerly, I will not refuse it you, sir. But I
+really am in a hurry."</p>
+
+<p>"I have no doubt on that point, sir; more especially hurried to leave
+this house&mdash;is it not so?"</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, sir?" the stranger asked, haughtily.</p>
+
+<p>"I mean," the adventurer replied, as he rose and placed himself between
+the stranger and the door, "that it is useless to feign any longer, and
+that you are recognized."</p>
+
+<p>"I recognized? I do not understand you. What does this language mean?"</p>
+
+<p>"It means," Montbarts said brutally, "that you are a spy and a traitor,
+and that you will be hanged within ten minutes."</p>
+
+<p>"I?" the stranger replied, with very cleverly assumed surprise; "Why,
+you must be mad, sir, or suffering under a strange mistake. Let me
+pass, I request."</p>
+
+<p>"I am not mad or mistaken, Seņor Don Antonio de la Ronda."</p>
+
+<p>The stranger started, a livid pallor covered his face, but he
+immediately recovered himself.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, this is madness!" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir," Montbarts remarked, still calm, but remaining in front of the
+door, "when I affirm, you deny. It is evident that one of us lies, or
+is mistaken. Now I declare that it is not I, hence it must be you; and
+to remove your last doubts on this point, listen to this, but first be
+good enough to resume your seat. We shall have, however much it may
+annoy you, to converse for some time and I will remark, that it is a
+very bad taste to talk standing face to face like two gamecocks ready
+to fly at each other's combs, when it is possible to act otherwise."</p>
+
+<p>Mastered, in spite of himself, by the adventurer's flashing glance
+obstinately fixed on him, and by his sharp, imperative accent, the
+stranger returned to his seat, and fell into it rather than sat down.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, sir," the filibuster continued, in the same calm voice, as he
+reseated himself and placed his elbows on the table, "in order at once
+to dissipate all the doubts you may have, and to prove to you that I
+know more about you than you will doubtless like, let me tell you your
+history in a couple of words."</p>
+
+<p>"Sir!" the stranger interrupted.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, fear nothing," he added, with studied sarcasm, "I shall be brief:
+I no more like than you do to waste my time in idle discourses; but
+just notice, by the bye, that, as I prophesied, our conversation, at
+first frivolous, has suddenly grown interesting. Is not this singular,
+I ask you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am awaiting your explanation, sir," the stranger replied, coolly;
+"for, up to the present, whatever you may say, I do not comprehend a
+word of all that it pleases you to say to me."</p>
+
+<p>"By Heavens! You are a man after my heart. I was not mistaken about
+you. Brave, cold, and crafty, you are worthy to be a filibuster, and to
+lead an adventurous life with us."</p>
+
+<p>"You do me a great honour, sir; but all this does not tell me&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds! I am coming to it, sir&mdash;a little patience. How quick you are!
+Take care: in your profession a man must be cool before all else, and
+you are not so at this moment."</p>
+
+<p>"You are very witty, sir," the stranger said, bowing ironically to his
+opponent.</p>
+
+<p>The latter was offended by this sudden attack, and smote the table with
+his fist.</p>
+
+<p>"Here is your history in two words, sir," he said. "You are an
+Andalusian, born at Malaga, a younger son, and consequently destined to
+take orders. One fine day, not feeling any liking for the tonsure, you
+fled from the paternal roof and embarked on a Spanish vessel bound for
+Hispaniola. Your name is Don Antonio de la Ronda. You see, sir, that up
+to this point I am well informed, am I not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pray go on, sir," the stranger replied, with perfect coolness; "your
+remarks are most interesting." Montbarts shrugged his shoulders, and
+went on.</p>
+
+<p>"On arriving at Hispaniola, you contrived, in a short time, thanks to
+your good looks and polished manners, to secure powerful protectors;
+and thus, though you only left Europe three years ago, you have
+made such rapid progress, that you are at present one of the most
+influential men in the colony. Unluckily&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Do you say unluckily?" the stranger interrupted with a jeering smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," the adventurer replied imperturbably; "unluckily your
+fortune turned your head so thoroughly&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"So thoroughly?"</p>
+
+<p>"That in defiance of your friends, you were arrested and threatened
+with a trial for embezzling a sum of nearly two million piastres; a
+noble amount, on which I compliment you. Any other man but you, sir, I
+feel a pleasure in allowing the fact, would have been ruined, or nearly
+so, as the case was very serious; and the Council of the Indies does
+not joke on money matters."</p>
+
+<p>"Permit me to interrupt you, my dear sir," the stranger said with the
+most perfect ease; "you are telling this story in a very talented
+manner, but if you go on so, it threatens to last indefinitely. If you
+permit it, I will finish it in a few words."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Ah! Then you allow its truth now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course," the stranger said with admirable coolness.</p>
+
+<p>"You acknowledge yourself to be Don Antonio de la Ronda?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why should I deny it longer, when you are so well informed?"</p>
+
+<p>"Better still; so that you confess to fraudulently entering the colony
+for the object of&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"I confess anything you like," the Spaniard said quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that being well established, you deserve to be hung, and you
+will be so in a few minutes."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, no," he replied without losing any of his coolness; "that is
+where we differ essentially in opinion, sir, your conclusion is not in
+the least logical."</p>
+
+<p>"What?" the adventurer exclaimed, surprised at this sudden change of
+humour which he did not expect.</p>
+
+<p>"I said that your conclusion was not logical."</p>
+
+<p>"I heard you perfectly."</p>
+
+<p>"And I am going to prove it," he continued; "grant me in your turn a
+few moments' attention."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; we must be merciful to those who are about to die."</p>
+
+<p>"You are very kind; but thank Heaven I am not there yet. There's many a
+slip between the cup and the lip, as a very sensible proverb says."</p>
+
+<p>"Go on," the filibuster said with an ominous smile.</p>
+
+<p>But the Spaniard was not affected.</p>
+
+<p>"It is evident to me, sir, that you have some business or bargain to
+propose to me."</p>
+
+<p>"I?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, and for this reason; having recognized me as a spy, for
+I must allow that I am really one (you see that I am frank in my
+confession), nothing was easier for you than to have me strung up to
+the nearest tree, without any form of trial."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but I am going to do so."</p>
+
+<p>"No, you will not do it now, and for this reason. You believe for
+reasons I am ignorant of, for I will not insult you by supposing that
+you had a feeling of pity for me, you who are so justly called by my
+countrymen the Exterminator&mdash;you believe, I say, that I can serve you,
+be useful to you in the success of one of your plans; consequently
+instead of having me hanged, as you would have done under any other
+circumstances, you came straight to find me here, where I fancied
+myself well hidden, in order to converse with me, like one friend with
+another. Well, I ask for nothing better, come, speak, I am listening;
+what do you want of me?"</p>
+
+<p>And after uttering these words with the most easy air he could assume,
+Don Antonio threw himself back in his chair delicately rolling a
+cigarette between his fingers.</p>
+
+<p>The filibuster gazed for a moment at the Spaniard with a surprise which
+he did not attempt to conceal, and then burst into a laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"That will do," he said, "I prefer that; at least there will be no
+misunderstanding between us. Yes, you have guessed correctly, I have a
+proposal to make to you."</p>
+
+<p>"That was not difficult to discover, sir; and pray what is the nature
+of the proposal?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, it is very simple, I only require you to act exactly in the
+opposite way to what you intended, to change sides, in short."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, I understand, that is to say, instead of betraying you for
+the advantage of Spain, I am to betray Spain for your profit."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you see it is easy."</p>
+
+<p>"Very easy, in fact, but decidedly shabby; and supposing that I consent
+to your request, what advantage shall I derive from it?"</p>
+
+<p>"In the first place I need hardly say that you will not be hung."</p>
+
+<p>"Pooh! To die by hanging, drowning, or a musket ball, is always much
+the same thing. I should desire a more distinct benefit, with your
+leave."</p>
+
+<p>"Confound it, you are difficult to satisfy, then it is nothing to save
+one's neck from a slip knot?"</p>
+
+<p>"My dear sir, when, as in my case, a man has nothing to lose and
+consequently everything to gain by any change in his position, death is
+rather a comfort than a calamity."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a philosopher, so it seems."</p>
+
+<p>"No, confound it! such absurdity never troubled me, I am merely a
+desperate man."</p>
+
+<p>"That is often the same thing; but let us return to our matter."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, that will be better."</p>
+
+<p>"Well! I offer you my whole share of the first ship I take; does that
+suit you?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is something better; but unluckily the ship to which you refer is
+like the bear in the fable, not caught yet; I should prefer something
+more substantial."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I see I must yield to you; serve me well and I will reward you
+so generously that the King of Spain himself could not do more."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that is agreed, I'll run the risk; now be kind enough to tell me
+the nature of the service you expect from me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I wish you to help me in taking by surprise Tortoise Island, where
+you lived for a long time, and where, if I do not err, you still have
+friends."</p>
+
+<p>"I see no inconvenience in trying that, although I will begin by making
+my reservations."</p>
+
+<p>"What are they?"</p>
+
+<p>"That I do not pledge myself to insure the success of your hazardous
+undertaking."</p>
+
+<p>"That remark is fair, but do not alarm yourself, if the Island is well
+defended, it shall be well attacked."</p>
+
+<p>"I am convinced; now for the next matter."</p>
+
+<p>"I will let you know it when the time arrives, seņor; for the present,
+other business engages our attention."</p>
+
+<p>"As you please, sir, you will be the best judge of the opportunity."</p>
+
+<p>"Now, sir, as I had the honour of telling you at the outset, since I
+know you to be a very sharp hand, and very capable of slipping through
+my fingers like an eel, without the slightest scruple, and as I wish to
+avoid that eventuality, and save you any notion of the sort, you will
+do me the pleasure of going at once aboard my lugger."</p>
+
+<p>"A prisoner!" the Spaniard said with a gesture of ill humour.</p>
+
+<p>"Not as a prisoner, my dear Don Antonio, but regarded as a hostage, and
+treated as such, that is to say, with all the attention compatible with
+our common security."</p>
+
+<p>"Still, the word of a gentleman&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Is valued between gentlemen, I allow, but with us <i>Ladrones</i>, as you
+call us, it has no value in my opinion; you hidalgos of old Spain,
+even make it a case of conscience to violate it without the slightest
+scruple, when your interest invites you to do so."</p>
+
+<p>Don Antonio hung his head; recognizing in his heart, though unwilling
+to allow it, the exact truth, of the filibuster's words.</p>
+
+<p>The latter enjoyed for a moment the Spaniard's discomfiture, and then
+rapped the table twice or thrice with the handle of his knife.</p>
+
+<p>The captain's engagé at once entered the room.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want of me, Montbarts?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me, my good fellow," the adventurer asked, "have you not seen a
+red Carib prowling round this house?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Montbarts, a Carib asked me only a moment ago, whether you
+were here, and I answered in the affirmative, but I did not like to
+transgress the orders I had received from you, and allow him to enter
+as he desired."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. Did not the man mention his name?"</p>
+
+<p>"On the contrary, that was the very first thing he did; it is Omopoua."</p>
+
+<p>"The very man I was expecting; tell him to come in, pray, for he is
+sure to be hanging about the door; and come with him."</p>
+
+<p>The engagé went out.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want with this man?" the Spaniard asked with a shade of
+anxiety, which did not escape the adventurer's sharp eye.</p>
+
+<p>"This Indian is simply intended to be your guard of honour," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Hum! It really seems as if you are anxious to keep me."</p>
+
+<p>"Extremely so, seņor."</p>
+
+<p>At this moment, the engagé returned followed by the Carib, who had
+made no change in his primitive costume; but had taken advantage of
+Montbarts' permission to arm himself to the teeth.</p>
+
+<p>"Omopoua and you, my friend, listen attentively to what I am going to
+say to you; you see this man?" he said pointing to the Spaniard who was
+still perfectly impassive.</p>
+
+<p>"We see him," they answered.</p>
+
+<p>"You will take him on board the lugger and hand him over to my mate,
+Michael the Basque, recommending him to watch over his guest most
+attentively! If, during the passage from here to the vessel, this man
+attempts to take to flight, blow out his brains without mercy. Have you
+understood me thoroughly?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said the engagé, "trust to us, we answer for him with our heads."</p>
+
+<p>"That is well, I accept your word; and now, sir," he added, addressing
+Don Antonio, "be good enough to follow these two men."</p>
+
+<p>"I yield to force, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, that is how I regard the matter, but reassure yourself,
+your captivity will be neither harsh nor long, and I shall keep the
+promises I have made you, if you keep yours. Now, go and farewell for
+the present."</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniard, without replying, placed himself between his two keepers
+voluntarily and left the room.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts remained alone.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE SLAVE SALE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>A moment after Montbarts rose, put on his cloak, which he had thrown on
+a chair when he came in, and prepared to quit the house.</p>
+
+<p>On the threshold he found himself face to face with Captain Drake.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah," said the latter, "here you are."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes! I have been breakfasting at your house."</p>
+
+<p>"You did well."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you accompany me to the sale?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not want any hired man."</p>
+
+<p>"Nor I, but you know the enlistment will commence immediately
+afterwards."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; let me say a word first to my engagé, and I will follow
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"He has gone out."</p>
+
+<p>"Why! I ordered him not to leave the house."</p>
+
+<p>"I have given him a commission."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! That is different."</p>
+
+<p>"You do not ask me what the commission is I have given your engagé,"
+Montbarts remarked a moment later.</p>
+
+<p>"Why should I? It does not concern me, I suppose."</p>
+
+<p>"More than you imagine, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense, how so?"</p>
+
+<p>"You offered hospitality to a stranger, did you not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but what of that?"</p>
+
+<p>"You shall see. This stranger, whom you do not know, for of course you
+do not&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"No more than Adam; what do I care who he is? hospitality is one of
+those things which cannot be refused."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, but I recognized the man."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah, and who is he then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing less than a Spanish spy, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"My God!" the captain said, stopping dead short.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter with you now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing, nothing, except that I will go and blow out his brains,
+unless you have done so already."</p>
+
+<p>"Pray, do nothing of the sort; this man, I feel convinced, brother,
+will prove very useful to us."</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense, how so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Leave me to act; if we manage properly, we may draw profit even from a
+Spanish spy; in the meanwhile, I have had him taken on board the lugger
+by your engagé, and a man of my own, where he will be watched so that
+he cannot part company."</p>
+
+<p>"I trust to you for that, and thank you, brother, for having freed me
+from the scoundrel."</p>
+
+<p>While talking thus, the two men arrived at the spot where the sale of
+the engagés to the colonists was to take place.</p>
+
+<p>On the right of the square was a spacious shed, built of clumsily
+planed planks, and open to the wind and rain; in the centre of the shed
+was a table for the officials and secretaries of the company, who had
+to manage the sale and draw up the contracts; an easy chair had been
+set apart for the governor, by the side of a rather lofty platform,
+on which each engagé, male or female, mounted in turn, so that the
+purchasers might examine them at their ease.</p>
+
+<p>These wretches, deceived by the company's agents in Europe, had
+contracted engagements, whose consequences they did not at all
+understand, and were convinced that, on their arrival in America,
+with the exception of a certain tax they had to pay the company for a
+certain period, they would be completely free to earn their livelihood
+as they thought proper. The majority were carpenters, masons and
+bricklayers, but there were also among them ruined gentlemen and
+libertines who detest work and who imagined that in America, the
+country of gold, fortune would visit them while they slept.</p>
+
+<p>A company's ship had arrived a few days previously and brought one
+hundred and fifty engagés, among them were several young and pretty
+women, thoroughly vitiated, however, and who, like the Manon Lescault
+of the Abbé Prevost, had been picked up by the police in the streets of
+Paris, and shipped off without further formality.</p>
+
+<p>These women were also sold to the colonists, not apparently as slaves,
+but as wives.</p>
+
+<p>These unions contracted in the gipsy fashion, were only intended to
+last a settled time which must not exceed seven years, unless with
+the mutual consent of the couple, though the clause was hardly ever
+appealed to by them; at the end of that time they separated, and each
+was set at liberty to form a fresh union.</p>
+
+<p>The engagés had been landed two days before; these two days had been
+granted them, that they might slightly recover from the fatigue of a
+long sea voyage, walk about and breathe the reviving land breeze, of
+which they had so long been deprived.</p>
+
+<p>At the moment when the two adventurers arrived, the sale had been going
+on for half an hour; the shed was crowded with colonists who desired to
+purchase slaves, for we are compelled to use that odious term, for the
+poor creatures were nothing else.</p>
+
+<p>At the sight of Montbarts, however, whose name was justly celebrated,
+a passage was opened, and he thus succeeded in reaching the side of
+the governor, Chevalier de Fontenay, round whom the most renowned
+adventurers were collected, among them being Michael the Basque.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur de Fontenay received Montbarts with distinction; he even
+rose from his chair and walked two or three steps to meet him, which
+the filibusters considered in very good taste, and felt grateful to
+him for it; this honour paid to the most celebrated among them cast a
+reflection on them all.</p>
+
+<p>After exchanging a few compliments with the governor, Montbarts bent
+down to Michael's ear.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, mate?" he said to him.</p>
+
+<p>"The Spaniard is aboard," Michael replied, "and carefully watched by
+Bowline."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case I can be at my ease?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly."</p>
+
+<p>During this aside, the sale had been going on.</p>
+
+<p>All the male engagés had been sold, with the exception of one who was
+standing at this moment on the platform, by the side of a company's
+agent, who acted as auctioneer, and praised the qualities of the human
+merchandise he offered.</p>
+
+<p>This engagé was a short, stout, powerfully built man, from twenty-five
+to twenty-six years of age, with harsh, energetic, but intelligent
+features, whose grey eyes sparkled with audacity and good humour.</p>
+
+<p>"Pierre Nau, native of the sands of Olonne," said the company's agent,
+"twenty-five years of age, powerful and in good health, a sailor.
+Who'll say forty crowns for the Olonnais, forty crowns for three years,
+gentlemen."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come," said the engagé, "if the person who buys me is a man, he
+will have a good bargain."</p>
+
+<p>"Going for forty crowns," the company's agent repeated, "forty crowns,
+gentlemen."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts turned to the engagé.</p>
+
+<p>"What, you scoundrel," he said to him, "you a sailor and sell yourself
+instead of joining us? You have no pluck."</p>
+
+<p>The Olonnais began laughing.</p>
+
+<p>"You know nothing about it. I have sold myself, because I must do so,"
+he answered, "so that my mother may be able to live during my absence."</p>
+
+<p>"How so?"</p>
+
+<p>"How does it concern you? You are not my master, and even if you were,
+you would have no right to inquire into my private affairs."</p>
+
+<p>"You seem to me a bold fellow," Montbarts remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed, I believe I am; besides, I wish to become an adventurer like
+you fellows, and for that purpose I must serve my apprenticeship to the
+trade."</p>
+
+<p>"Going for forty crowns," cried the agent.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts examined with the most serious attention the engagé, whose
+firm glance he could hardly manage to quell; then, doubtless satisfied
+with his triumph, he turned to the agent.</p>
+
+<p>"That will do," he said, "hold your row: I buy this man."</p>
+
+<p>"The Olonnais is adjudged to Montbarts the exterminator, for forty
+crowns," the agent said.</p>
+
+<p>"Here they are," the adventurer answered as he threw a handful of
+silver on the table; "now come," he ordered the Olonnais, "you are now
+my engagé."</p>
+
+<p>The latter leapt joyously off the platform and ran up to him.</p>
+
+<p>"So you are Montbarts the exterminator?" he asked him curiously.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you are questioning me," the adventurer said with a laugh,
+"still, as your question appears to me very natural, I will answer it
+this time; yes, I am Montbarts."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case I thank you for buying me, Montbarts; with you I am
+certain soon to become a man."</p>
+
+<p>And at a sign from his new master, he respectfully placed himself
+behind him.</p>
+
+<p>The most curious part of the sale for the adventurers then began, that
+is to say, the sale of the women.</p>
+
+<p>The poor wretches, mostly young and pretty, mounted the platform
+trembling, and in spite of their efforts to keep a good countenance,
+they blushed with shame, and burning tears ran down their cheeks on
+seeing themselves thus exposed before all these men, whose flashing
+eyes were fixed upon them.</p>
+
+<p>The company made its greatest profit by the women, and it was the more
+easy to realise, because they were got for nothing, and sold at the
+highest possible figure.</p>
+
+<p>The men were generally knocked down at a price varying from thirty
+to forty dollars, but never went beyond that; with the women it was
+different, they were put up to auction, and the governor alone had the
+right to stop the sale, when the price appeared to him sufficiently
+high. These women were always sold amid cries, shouts and coarse jests,
+generally addressed to the adventurers who did not fear running the
+risk of venturing on the shoal-beset ocean of marriage.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte, that furious adventurer to whom we have already referred,
+and whom we saw at the meeting at the hatto, had, as he had resolved,
+purchased two engagés to take the place of the two who had died, so he
+said, of indolence, but, in reality of the blows he dealt them; then,
+instead of returning home he had confided the engagés to his overseer;
+for the adventurers, like the slave owners, had overseers, whose duty
+it was to make the white slaves toil; and the adventurer remained in
+the shed watching the sale of the women with the most lively interest.</p>
+
+<p>His friends did not fail to cut jokes at his expense, but he contented
+himself with shrugging his shoulders disdainfully, and stood with
+his hands crossed on the muzzle of his long fusil, and with his eyes
+obstinately fixed on the platform.</p>
+
+<p>A young woman had just taken her place there in her turn; she was a
+frail delicate girl, with light curling hair that fell on her white
+rather thin chest. Her smooth and pensive forehead, her large blue
+eyes full of tears, her fresh cheeks, her little mouth, made her appear
+much younger than she in reality was; she was eighteen years of age,
+and her delicate waist, her well-turned lips, her decent appearance,
+in short everything about her delicious person had a seductive charm,
+which formed a complete contrast with the decided air and vulgar
+manners of the women who had preceded her on the platform, and those
+who would follow her.</p>
+
+<p>"Louise, born at Montmartre, aged eighteen years; who will marry her
+for three years, at the price of fifteen crowns?" the company's agent
+asked in his sarcastic voice.</p>
+
+<p>The poor girl buried her face in her hands and wept bitterly.</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty crowns for Louise," an adventurer shouted, drawing nearer.</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five," another said immediately.</p>
+
+<p>"Make her hold her head up so that we can have a look at her," a third
+cried brutally.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, little one," the agent said, as he obliged her to remove her
+hands from her face; "be polite and let them look at you, it is for
+your own good, hang it all! Twenty-five crowns."</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty," said Belle Tęte, without moving from the spot.</p>
+
+<p>All eyes were turned to him; up to this moment Belle Tęte had professed
+a profound hatred for marriage.</p>
+
+<p>"Sixty," shouted an adventurer who did not desire to buy the girl, but
+wished to annoy his comrade.</p>
+
+<p>"Seventy," said another with the same charitable intention.</p>
+
+<p>"One hundred," Belle Tęte shouted angrily.</p>
+
+<p>"One hundred crowns, gentlemen, one hundred for Louise for three
+years," the stoical agent said.</p>
+
+<p>"One hundred and fifty."</p>
+
+<p>"Two hundred."</p>
+
+<p>"Two hundred and fifty."</p>
+
+<p>"Three hundred," several adventurers shouted, almost simultaneously, as
+they drew nearer to the platform.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte was pale with rage, for he feared lest she might escape him.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurer had persuaded himself, rightly or wrongly, that he
+wanted a wife to manage his household; now he had seen Louise, Louise
+pleased him, she was for sale, and he resolved to buy her.</p>
+
+<p>"Four hundred crowns!" he said with an air of defiance.</p>
+
+<p>"Four hundred crowns," the company's agent repeated in his monotonous
+voice.</p>
+
+<p>There was a silence.</p>
+
+<p>Four hundred crowns is a large sum; Belle Tęte triumphed.</p>
+
+<p>"Five hundred!" a sharp shrill voice suddenly shouted.</p>
+
+<p>The contest was beginning again; the adversaries had only stopped to
+regain their strength.</p>
+
+<p>The company's agent rubbed his hands with a jubilant air, while
+repeating,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Six hundred, seven, eight, nine hundred crowns!"</p>
+
+<p>A species of frenzy had seized on the spectators, and all bid
+furiously; the girl was still weeping.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte was in a state of fury which approached to madness;
+clutching his fusil frenziedly in his clinched hand, he felt a
+wild temptation to send a bullet into the most determined of his
+competitors. Only the presence of M. de Fontenay restrained him.</p>
+
+<p>"A thousand," he shouted in a hoarse voice.</p>
+
+<p>"One thousand two hundred!" the most obstinate competitor immediately
+yelled.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte stamped savagely, threw his fusil on his shoulder, drew his
+cap on to his head with a blow of his fist, and then with a step as
+slow and solemn as that of a statue would be, if a statue could walk,
+he went to place himself by the side of his unendurable rival, and
+letting the butt of his fusil fall heavily on the ground, scarce an
+inch from the man's foot, he looked him in the face for a moment with a
+defiant air, and shouted in a voice choked by emotion,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Fifteen hundred!"</p>
+
+<p>The adventurer regarded him in his turn fiercely, fell back a step,
+and, after renewing the powder in the pan of his fusil, said, in a calm
+voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Two thousand!"</p>
+
+<p>Before these two obstinate adversaries the other bidders had prudently
+withdrawn; the competition was turning into a quarrel, and threatened
+to become sanguinary.</p>
+
+<p>A deadly silence brooded over the shed; the over-excited passions of
+these two men had spoiled all the pleasures of the spectators, and
+silenced all their jokes.</p>
+
+<p>The Governor followed with interest the different incidents of this
+struggle, ready to interfere at any moment.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers had gradually fallen back, and left a large free space
+between the two men.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte recoiled a few paces in his turn, suddenly examined the
+priming of his fusil, and then, pointing the latter at his adversary,
+shouted&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Three thousand!"</p>
+
+<p>The other raised his fusil at the same moment to his shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>"Three thousand five hundred crowns!" he shouted, as he pulled the
+trigger&mdash;the fusil was discharged.</p>
+
+<p>But the Governor, with a movement rapid as thought, threw up the barrel
+with the end of his cane, and the ball lodged in the roof.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte remained motionless, though, on hearing the shot, he lowered
+his fusil.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir," the Governor exclaimed, indignantly, addressing the adventurer
+who had fired, "You have acted in a dishonourable way, and almost
+committed a murder."</p>
+
+<p>"Governor," the adventurer coolly replied, "when I fired he had his gun
+pointed at me, and hence it is a duel."</p>
+
+<p>The Governor hesitated, for the answer was specious.</p>
+
+<p>"No matter, sir," he continued, a moment later, "the laws of duelling
+were not respected; to punish you I put you out of the bidding. Sir,"
+he said, addressing the company's agent, "I order that the woman, who
+was the cause of this deplorable aggression, be knocked down to Seņor
+Belle Tęte for three thousand crowns."</p>
+
+<p>The agent bowed with rather an angry look, for the worthy man had
+hoped, from the way things were going on, to reach a much higher
+figure; but he dared not make any observations to Chevalier de
+Fontenay; he must yield, and so he did.</p>
+
+<p>"Louise is adjudged for three thousand crowns," he said, with a sigh of
+regret&mdash;not for the woman, but for the money&mdash;"to M. Belle Tęte."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, Governor," the baffled adventurer said, with an ugly smile,
+"I must bow to your final sentence; but Belle Tęte and I will meet
+again."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so, too, Picard," Belle Tęte answered, coldly; "there must be
+bloodshed between us now." During this time Louise had come down from
+the platform, when another woman took her place, and had stationed
+herself, still weeping, by the side of Belle Tęte, who was henceforth
+her lord and master.</p>
+
+<p>M. de Fontenay gave a commiserating glance at the poor girl, who was
+about, in all probability, to endure such a cruel existence with so
+harsh a man, and then gently said to her&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Madame, from this day you are for three years the legitimate wife of
+M. Belle Tęte, and owe him obedience, affection, and fidelity; such are
+the laws of the colony: in three years you will be your own mistress,
+at liberty to leave him or to continue to live with him, if he desire
+it; be good enough to sign this paper."</p>
+
+<p>The unhappy woman, blinded by her tears, and crushed by despair,
+signed, without looking at it, the paper which the Governor offered
+her; then she cast a heart-broken glance at this silent and indifferent
+crowd, in which she knew that she could not find a friend.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, sir," she asked, in a gentle and trembling voice, "what must I
+do?"</p>
+
+<p>"You must follow this man, who will be your husband for three years,"
+M. de Fontenay answered, with a touch of pity, which he could not
+overcome.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment Belle Tęte laid his hand on the girl's shoulder; she
+shuddered all over, and looked wildly at him.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he said, "my girl, you must follow me; for, as the Governor has
+told you, I am your husband for three years, and till the expiration of
+that time, you will have no other master but me. Now, listen to this,
+my darling, and engrave it carefully on your mind, so as to remember it
+at the right moment: what you have done, what you have been, until now,
+does not concern me, and I care little about it; but," he added, in a
+hollow, ferocious voice, which chilled the poor girl with horror, "from
+this day, from this moment, you belong to me&mdash;to me alone: I intrust
+to you my honour, which becomes yours, and if you compromise that
+honour&mdash;if you forget your duties," he said, as he dashed the butt end
+of his musket on the ground, so harshly, that the hammer rattled with
+an ill-omened sound, "this will remind you of them; now, follow me."</p>
+
+<p>"Be gentle to her, Belle Tęte," M. de Fontenay could not help
+saying&mdash;"she is so young."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be just, Governor: now, thanks for your impartiality, it is
+time for me to retire. Picard, my old friend, you know where to find
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not fail to come and see you, but I do not, wish to trouble
+your honeymoon," Picard replied, with a growl.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte withdrew, followed by his wife.</p>
+
+<p>The sale henceforth offered nothing of interest; the few women
+remaining were sold at prices far inferior to that which Louise had
+fetched, to the great regret, we are bound to add, of the Company's
+agent.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers were preparing to leave the shed where they imagined
+there was nothing more to see; but at this moment Montbarts mounted the
+platform, and addressed the crowd in a sonorous voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," he said, "stay, I have an important communication to make
+to you."</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers remained motionless.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE ENLISTMENT.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>All the adventurers assembled round the platform, anxiously awaiting
+what Montbarts had to tell them.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," he said, a moment after, "I am preparing a new expedition,
+for which I require three hundred resolute men; who among you will
+follow Montbarts the Exterminator?"</p>
+
+<p>"All, all!" the adventurers shouted, enthusiastically.</p>
+
+<p>The Governor prepared to withdraw.</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Chevalier de Fontenay," Montbarts said, "be kind enough to
+remain a few minutes longer; the expedition I have projected is most
+serious: I am about to dictate a charter party, to which I will ask
+you, as Governor of the colony, to append your signature before that of
+our companions&mdash;moreover, I have a bargain to propose to you."</p>
+
+<p>"I will remain, since you desire it, Montbarts," the Governor replied,
+as he returned to his seat; "now be kind enough to inform me of the
+bargain you wish to propose."</p>
+
+<p>"You are the owner, sir, I think, of two brigantines of eighty tons
+each?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am."</p>
+
+<p>"These brigantines are useless to you at this moment, as you appear, at
+least until fresh orders, to have given up cruising, while they will be
+very useful to me."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, sir, they are at your service from this moment," the
+Governor replied, gallantly.</p>
+
+<p>"I thank you, as I ought, for your politeness, sir, but that is not
+my meaning; in an expedition like the one I meditate, no one can
+foresee what may happen, hence I propose to buy your two ships for four
+thousand crowns cash."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, sir, since you wish it; I am delighted to be of service to
+you; the two ships are yours."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall have the honour of handing you the four thousand crowns within
+an hour."</p>
+
+<p>The two men bowed; and then the filibuster turned to the adventurers,
+who were waiting, panting with, impatience, and whose curiosity had
+been heightened by the purchase of the two vessels.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," he said, in his sonorous and sympathetic voice, "for two
+months past no expedition has been attempted, and no ship has put to
+sea; are you not beginning to grow tired of this idle life which you
+and I are leading? Are you not beginning to run short of money, and
+are not your purses light? Zounds, comrades, come with me, and within
+a fortnight your pockets shall be full of Spanish doubloons, and
+the pretty girls, who today are so coy, will then lavish their most
+charming smiles on you&mdash;down with the Spaniards, brothers! Those of
+you who are willing to follow me can give their names to Michael the
+Basque, my mate. Still, as the shares will be large, the danger will
+be great; to obtain them I only want men resolved to conquer or to
+die bravely, without asking quarter of the enemy or granting it; I am
+Montbarts the Exterminator&mdash;I grant no mercy to the Spaniards, nor do I
+ask it of them."</p>
+
+<p>Enthusiastic shouts greeted these words, uttered with that accent which
+the celebrated filibuster knew so well how to assume when he wished to
+seduce the individuals he was addressing.</p>
+
+<p>The enlistment began; Michael the Basque had seated himself at the
+table previously occupied by the Company's agent, and wrote down the
+names of the adventurers, who pressed round him in a crowd, and who
+all wished to join in an expedition which they foresaw would be most
+lucrative.</p>
+
+<p>But Michael had received strict instructions from his master: convinced
+that he should not want for men, and that more would offer than he
+needed, he carefully selected those whose names he took, and pitilessly
+rejected those adventurers whose reputation for, we will not say
+bravery, for all were brave as lions, but for reckless daring, was not
+thoroughly established.</p>
+
+<p>Still in spite of Michael's intended strictness, the number of three
+hundred was soon complete. We need scarce say they were the flower
+of the filibusters, all adventurers, the least renowned of whom
+had performed deeds of incredible daring, men with whom attempting
+impossibilities and achieving them had become but mere child's play.</p>
+
+<p>The first inserted were, as had been agreed on the preceding night, the
+members of the society of the Twelve.</p>
+
+<p>Hence M. de Fontenay, who, an old filibuster himself, knew all these
+men, not only by reputation, but from having seen them at work, could
+not recover from his surprise, and incessantly repeated to Montbarts,
+who was standing, calm and smiling at his side, "What can you be after?
+Do you mean to seize on Hispaniola?"</p>
+
+<p>"Who knows?" the filibuster replied sportively.</p>
+
+<p>"Still, I think I have a right to your confidence," the governor said
+in an offended tone.</p>
+
+<p>"The most entire, Sir; still, you are aware that the first condition
+of security in an expedition is secrecy."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true."</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot tell you anything, but do not prevent you from guessing."</p>
+
+<p>"Guessing! But how?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, perhaps the charter party will set you on the right track."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, let me hear it."</p>
+
+<p>"A little patience still; but stay, here is Michael coming toward me.
+Well," he asked him, "have you completed our number?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should think so; I have three hundred and fifty men."</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it, that is a great number."</p>
+
+<p>"I could not do otherwise than accept them; when it is a question about
+going with Montbarts, it is impossible to keep them back."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, we will take them, if it must be so," Montbarts said with a
+smile, "give me your list."</p>
+
+<p>Michael handed it to him; the filibuster looked round him, and
+perceived an agent of the Company, whom curiosity had kept back, and
+who had remained in the shed to witness the enlistment.</p>
+
+<p>"You are a Company's agent, I think, sir?" he said to him, politely.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," the agent replied with a bow, "I have that honour."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, may I ask you to do me a service?"</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, sir, I shall be only too glad to oblige you."</p>
+
+<p>"My companions and myself are no great clerks, and we can use a hatchet
+better than a pen; would it be presuming too much on your kindness to
+ask you to be good enough to serve as my secretary for a few minutes,
+and write down the charter party I shall dictate to you, and which my
+comrades will sign, after having it read to them?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am only too happy, sir, that you deign to honour me with your
+confidence," the agent said with a bow.</p>
+
+<p>Then he seated himself at the table, selected some paper, mended a pen
+and waited.</p>
+
+<p>"Silence, if you please, gentlemen," said the Chevalier de Fontenay,
+who had exchanged a few words in a low voice with Montbarts.</p>
+
+<p>The private conversations were checked, and a profound silence was
+established almost instantaneously. M. de Fontenay continued.</p>
+
+<p>"A filibustering expedition, composed of three ships, two brigantines
+and a lugger, is about to leave St. Kitts, under the command of
+Montbarts, whom I appoint, in the name of His most Christian Majesty,
+Louis, fourteenth of that name, admiral of the fleet. This expedition,
+whose object remains secret, has been joined by 350 men, the flower of
+the filibusters. The three captains chosen to command the ships are,
+Michael the Basque, William Drake, and John David. They are ordered to
+obey in every point the commands they will receive from the admiral,
+and each captain will himself appoint his officers." Then, turning to
+Montbarts, he added, "Now admiral, dictate the charter party."</p>
+
+<p>The adventurer bowed, and addressing the Company's agent, who was
+watching with head and pen erect, he said to him&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Are you ready, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"I await your orders."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case write as I dictate."</p>
+
+<p>No expedition ever left port without having previously proclaimed the
+charter party: this document, in which the rights of each man were
+rigorously stipulated, served as the supreme law for these men, who,
+undisciplined though they were ashore, bowed without a murmur to the
+strictest decrees of the naval code: so soon as they had set foot on
+the vessel for which they were engaged, the captain of yesterday became
+a sailor today, accepted without grumbling the eventual inferiority
+which the duration of the cruise alone maintained, and which ended on
+the return to port, by placing each member of the expedition on the
+same level, and on a footing of the most perfect equality.</p>
+
+<p>We quote literally the charter party our readers are about to peruse,
+because from this authentic act they will understand more easily the
+range and power of this strange association, and the manner in which
+the filibusters treated each other.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts dictated what follows in a calm voice amid the religious
+silence of his auditors, who only interrupted him at intervals, by
+shouts of approbation.</p>
+
+<p>"Charter party decreed by Admiral Montbarts, Captains Michael the
+Basque, William Drake, John David, and the Brethren of the Coast, who
+have voluntarily placed themselves under their orders, and which is
+fully consented to by them."</p>
+
+<p>"The admiral will have a right, in addition to his share, to one man
+per hundred."</p>
+
+<p>"Each captain will receive twelve shares."</p>
+
+<p>"Each brother four shares."</p>
+
+<p>"These shares will only be counted after the king's part has been
+deducted from all the shares."</p>
+
+<p>"The surgeons will receive, in addition to their share, two hundred
+dollars each, as payment for their medicaments."</p>
+
+<p>"The carpenters, in addition to their share, will each, have a claim
+for one hundred dollars, in remuneration of their labours."</p>
+
+<p>"Any disobedience will be punished by death, whatever be the name or
+rank of the culprit."</p>
+
+<p>"The brothers who distinguish themselves in the expedition will be
+rewarded in the following manner&mdash;The man who pulls down the enemy's
+flag from a fortress, and hoists the French one, will have a claim, in
+addition to his share, to fifty piastres."</p>
+
+<p>"The man who takes a prisoner, when out in search of news of the enemy,
+will have, in addition to his share, one hundred piastres."</p>
+
+<p>"The grenadiers, for each grenade thrown into a fort, five piastres."</p>
+
+<p>"Any man, who in action captures a high officer of the enemy, will be
+rewarded by the admiral, if he has risked his life, in a generous way."</p>
+
+<p>"Rewards offered, in addition to their share, to the wounded and
+mutilated."</p>
+
+<p>"For the loss of both legs, fifteen hundred crowns, or fifteen slaves,
+at the choice of the recipient: if there are enough slaves."</p>
+
+<p>"For the loss of both arms, eighteen hundred piastres or eighteen
+slaves, at choice."</p>
+
+<p>"For a leg, no distinction between right and left, five hundred
+piastres or five slaves."</p>
+
+<p>"For an eye, one hundred piastres or a slave; for an arm or a hand,
+no distinction between right and left, four hundred piastres or four
+slaves."</p>
+
+<p>"For both eyes, two thousand piastres, or twenty slaves."</p>
+
+<p>"For a finger, one hundred piastres or one slave: if any man be
+dangerously wounded in the body he will have five hundred piastres or
+five slaves."</p>
+
+<p>"It is already understood, that, in the same way, as with the king's
+part, all these rewards will be raised on the whole of the booty,
+before dividing the shares."</p>
+
+<p>"Any enemy's vessel captured either at sea or at anchor, will be
+divided between all the members of the expedition, unless it be
+valued at more than ten thousand crowns, in which case one thousand
+crowns will be set apart for the first ship's crew that boarded: the
+expedition will hoist the royal flag of France, and the admiral bear in
+addition the <i>red, white, and blue</i> flag."</p>
+
+<p>"No officer or sailor of the expedition will be allowed to remain
+ashore anywhere unless he has previously obtained the admiral's
+permission, under penalty of being declared a maroon, and prosecuted as
+such."</p>
+
+<p>When this last paragraph which, like all that preceded it, had been
+listened to in the most profound silence, had been recorded by the
+Company's agent, Montbarts took the charter party, and read it through
+in a loud clear voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Does this charter party suit you, brethren?" he then asked the
+filibusters.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes," they shouted, waving their caps, "long live Montbarts! Long
+live Montbarts!"</p>
+
+<p>"And you swear, as my officers and myself swear, to obey without a
+murmur, and strictly carry out all the clauses of this charter party?"</p>
+
+<p>"We swear it," they repeated.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," Montbarts continued; "the embarkation will commence at
+sunrise tomorrow, and all the crews must be on board the fleet before
+ten o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>"We will be there."</p>
+
+<p>"Now, brethren, let me remind you that each of you must be armed with a
+fusil, and a cutlass, have a bag of bullets, and at least three pounds
+of gunpowder: I repeat that the expedition we are about to undertake
+is most serious, so that you may not forget to choose your chums, that
+they may aid you in the case of illness or wounds, and make your wills,
+as otherwise your shares would lapse to the king. You have understood
+me, brothers? Employ as you please the few hours' liberty left you, but
+do not forget that I expect you on board at day break tomorrow."</p>
+
+<p>The filibusters replied by shouts, and left the shed, where there only
+remained the governor, Montbarts, his captains, and the new engagé
+called the Olonnais, whom the adventurer had bought by auction a few
+hours previously, and who, far from being sad, seemed, on the contrary,
+extremely pleased at all that was going on in his presence.</p>
+
+<p>"As for you, gentlemen," Montbarts said, "I have no orders to give
+you, for you know as well as I what you have to do. Draw lots for your
+commands, then go on board, inspect the masts and rigging, and get
+ready to sail at the first signal. These are the only recommendations,
+I think, I need make you. Good-bye."</p>
+
+<p>The three captains bowed, and at once withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" Chevalier de Fontenay said, with an accent of regret, "My dear
+Montbarts, I never see an expedition preparing without having a lively
+feeling of sorrow, and almost of envy."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you regret your adventurous life, sir? I understand that feeling,
+although each expedition brings you an augmentation of wealth."</p>
+
+<p>"What do I care for that? Do not believe that I make an avaricious
+calculation. No! My thoughts are of a higher order. But the moment is
+badly chosen to chatter with you. Go, sir! And if you succeed, as I do
+not doubt&mdash;and yet, who knows? On your return we shall perhaps be able
+to come to an understanding; and then we will attempt an expedition
+together, which I hope will be talked about for a long time."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad," the filibuster replied, politely, "to have you as a
+partner. Your brilliant courage, and far from ordinary merit, are to
+me certain guarantees of success. I shall therefore have the honour to
+hold myself at your orders, if it please Heaven that I succeed this
+time, and return safe and sound from the expedition I meditate."</p>
+
+<p>"Good luck, sir; and let us hope to meet again soon."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir."</p>
+
+<p>They shook hands; and as, while conversing, they had left the shed,
+they went different roads, after a parting bow.</p>
+
+<p>The filibuster, followed by the engagé, proceeded slowly towards his
+house.</p>
+
+<p>At the moment when he left the town, a man placed himself before him,
+and bowed.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want with me?" the adventurer asked, giving him a
+scrutinizing glance.</p>
+
+<p>"To say a word to you."</p>
+
+<p>"Say on."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you Captain Montbarts?"</p>
+
+<p>"You must be a stranger, to ask that question."</p>
+
+<p>"No matter. Answer."</p>
+
+<p>"I am Captain Montbarts."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, this letter is for you."</p>
+
+<p>"A letter for me!" he exclaimed, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Here it is," the stranger said, as he presented it.</p>
+
+<p>"Give it to me."</p>
+
+<p>And he took it from him.</p>
+
+<p>"Now my commission is performed, farewell."</p>
+
+<p>"A word, in your turn."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak."</p>
+
+<p>"From whom comes this letter?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not know; but you will probably learn by reading the contents."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I may retire?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing prevents you."</p>
+
+<p>The stranger bowed, and went away.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts opened the letter, hurriedly perused it, and turned pale.
+Then he re-read it; but this time slowly, and as if he wished to dwell
+on each sentence.</p>
+
+<p>A moment later he seemed to form a resolution, and turned to his
+engagé, who was standing a few paces from him.</p>
+
+<p>"Come here," he said to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Here I am," said the other.</p>
+
+<p>"You are a sailor?"</p>
+
+<p>"A 1, I fancy."</p>
+
+<p>"That is well. Follow me."</p>
+
+<p>The filibuster turned back, hastily re-entered the town, and proceeded
+toward the sea.</p>
+
+<p>He seemed to be seeking something. A moment later, his gloomy face grew
+brighter.</p>
+
+<p>He had just seen a light canoe pulled up on the beach.</p>
+
+<p>"Help me to float this canoe," he said to the engagé.</p>
+
+<p>The latter obeyed.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as the canoe was afloat, Montbarts leaped in, closely followed
+by his engagé; and seizing the paddles, they put off from the shore.</p>
+
+<p>"Step the mast, so that we may hoist a sail so soon as we are free of
+the ships."</p>
+
+<p>The Olonnais, without answering, did as he was ordered.</p>
+
+<p>"Good!" Montbarts continued. "Now haul the sheets aft, and hand them to
+me, my lad."</p>
+
+<p>In a second the sail was hoisted, set, and the light canoe bounded like
+a petrel over the crest of the waves.</p>
+
+<p>They ran thus for some time without exchanging a word. They had left
+the ships far behind them, and passed out of the roads.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you speak Spanish?" Montbarts suddenly asked the engagé.</p>
+
+<p>"Like a native of Old Castile," the other answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Ah!" said Montbarts.</p>
+
+<p>"It is easy to understand," the Olonnais continued. "I went whaling
+with the Basques and Bayonnese, and for several years smuggled along
+the Spanish coast."</p>
+
+<p>"And do you like the Spaniards?"</p>
+
+<p>"No!" the other answered, with a frown.</p>
+
+<p>"You have a motive, of course?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have one."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you tell it me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Out with it, then."</p>
+
+<p>"I had a boat of my own, in which, as I told you, I smuggled. I worked
+six years to save up the money to buy this boat. One day, while seeking
+to land prohibited goods in a bay to windward of Portugalete, I was
+surprised by a Spanish revenue lugger. My boat was sunk, my brother
+killed, myself dangerously wounded, and I fell into the hands of the
+Gavachos. The first bandage they placed on my wounds was a bastinado,
+which left me for dead on the ground. Believing, doubtless, that
+they had killed me, they abandoned me then, and paid no further
+attention to me. I succeeded by boldness and cunning, after enduring
+indescribable tortures from hunger, cold, fatigue, &amp;c., too lengthy to
+enumerate, in at length leaping across the frontier, and finding myself
+once again on French soil. I was free, but my brother was dead. I was
+ruined, and my old father ran a risk of dying of hunger&mdash;thanks to the
+Spaniards. Such is my history. It is not long.&mdash;How do you like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is a sad one, my good fellow; but it is as much hatred as the
+desire of growing rich which has brought you among us?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is hatred, before everything."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! Take the helm in my place, while I reflect. We are going to
+Nevis. Steer to windward of that point which juts out down there to the
+southeast."</p>
+
+<p>The engagé seized the helm. Montbarts wrapped himself in his cloak,
+pulled his hat over his eyes, let his head sink on his chest, and
+remained motionless as a statue. The canoe still advanced, vigorously
+impelled by the breeze.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>NEVIS.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Nevis is only separated from St. Kitts by a channel half a league in
+width at the most.</p>
+
+<p>This charming little island, whose fertility is remarkable, is,
+according to all probability, the result of a volcanic explosion; and
+this assertion is nearly proved by a crater containing a spring of hot
+water strongly impregnated with sulphur.</p>
+
+<p>Seen from a distance, it offers the appearance of a vast cone; it is,
+in fact, only a very lofty mountain, whose base is watered by the sea;
+its sides at first offering an easy incline, become, at a certain
+height, excessively abrupt; all vegetation ceases, and its snow covered
+peak is lost in the clouds.</p>
+
+<p>During the attack of the Spaniards on St. Kitts, several adventurers
+had sought shelter on this isle. Some of them, seduced by attractive
+sites, permanently settled there, and commenced forming plantations;
+few in number, it is true, and too far apart for the inhabitants to
+aid each other in the event of an attack from an external foe, but
+which prospered, and promised, ere long, to acquire a certain amount of
+importance.</p>
+
+<p>The filibuster, although his little skiff was impelled by a good
+breeze, took some time in reaching the island, because he was obliged
+to go along the entire length of the channel ere he reached the spot
+where he wished to go.</p>
+
+<p>The sun was already beginning to decline, when the canoe at length put
+into a small sandy creek.</p>
+
+<p>"Pull up the canoe, hide the paddles among the reeds," said Montbarts,
+"and follow me."</p>
+
+<p>The Olonnais obeyed with the punctuality and intelligent vivacity which
+he displayed in everything, and then said to his master&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I take my fusil?"</p>
+
+<p>"There is no harm in doing so," the latter replied; "an adventurer
+should never go unarmed."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; I will remember that."</p>
+
+<p>They proceeded inland, following a scarce-traced path, which ran with
+a gentle incline from the beech, wound round a rather steep hill,
+and after passing through a leafy mahogany forest, led to a narrow
+esplanade, in the centre of which a light canvas tent had been pitched,
+not far from a rock.</p>
+
+<p>A man, seated before the entrance of the tent, was reading a Breviary.
+He was dressed in the strict attire of the Franciscans, and seemed
+to have passed middle life. He was pale and thin, his features were
+ascetic and stern, his countenance was intelligent, and a marked
+expression of gentleness was spread over it. At the sound of the
+adventurers' footsteps he raised his head quickly, turned towards them,
+and a melancholy smile played round his lips.</p>
+
+<p>Hurriedly closing his book, he rose and walked a few steps toward the
+newcomers.</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven be with you, brothers!" he said in Spanish, "If you come with
+pure intentions; if not, may it inspire you with better thoughts."</p>
+
+<p>"My father," the filibuster said, returning his salutation, "I am the
+man whom the adventurers of St. Kitts call Montbarts, and my intentions
+are pure, for in coming here I have only yielded to the desire you
+expressed to see me, if you are really Fray Arsenio Mendoza, from whom
+I received a letter a few hours ago."</p>
+
+<p>"I am the person who wish to see you, brother; and that is really my
+name."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case speak, I am ready to hear you."</p>
+
+<p>"Brother," the monk answered, "the things I have to communicate to you
+are of the highest importance, and concern you alone. Perhaps it would
+be better that you alone should hear them."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not know what important matters you can have to tell me, father;
+but in any case, learn that this man is my engagé, and, as such, it is
+his duty to be deaf and dumb when I order him."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, I will speak in his presence, since you demand it; still, I
+repeat to you, that it would be better for us to be alone."</p>
+
+<p>"I will act in accordance with your wish. Retire out of hearing, but
+keep in sight," he said to his engagé.</p>
+
+<p>The latter retired about one hundred yards down the path, and leant on
+his fusil.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you fear any treachery on the part of a poor monk like me?" the
+Franciscan asked, with a sad smile; "That would be very gratuitously
+imputing to me intentions very remote from my thoughts."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose nothing, father; still, I am accustomed," the filibuster
+coarsely answered, "always to be on my guard when I am in the presence
+of a man of your nation, whether he be priest or layman."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes," he said, in a sorrowful voice, "you profess an implacable
+hatred for my unhappy country, and for that reason are called the
+Exterminator."</p>
+
+<p>"Whatever be the feelings I profess for your countrymen and the name
+it has pleased them to give me, it is not, I suppose, to discuss this
+point with me that you have come here at a serious risk, and requested
+me to meet you."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed, it was not for that motive, you are right, my son, though,
+personally, I might have a good deal to say on that subject."</p>
+
+<p>"I would observe, father, that the hour is advancing&mdash;I have but little
+time at your service, and if you do not hasten to explain yourself, I
+shall be, to my great regret, constrained to leave you."</p>
+
+<p>"You would regret it for your whole life, brother, were it as long as a
+patriarch's."</p>
+
+<p>"That is possible, though I greatly doubt it. I can only receive bad
+news from Spain."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps so; in any case, these are the news of which I am the bearer."</p>
+
+<p>"I am listening to you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am, as my gown shows you, a monk of the order of San Francisco de
+Asís."</p>
+
+<p>"At least, you have the look of one," the adventurer remarked, with an
+ironical smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you doubt it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why not? Would you be the first Spaniard who was not afraid to profane
+a sacred dress, in order to spy our movements the more easily?"</p>
+
+<p>"Unfortunately what you say is true, and it has happened only too
+often; but I am merely a monk."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you, till I have proof of the contrary; so go on."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. I am the spiritual director of several ladies of quality in
+the island of Hispaniola: one among them, young and beautiful, who only
+arrived in the West Indies a short time ago with her husband, appears
+to be devoured by an incurable grief."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed! And what can I do to prevent it, father?"</p>
+
+<p>"I know not: still, this is what took place between this lady and
+myself. The lady, who, as I told you, is young and fair, and whose
+charity and goodness are inexhaustible, spends the greater part of
+her days in her oratory, kneeling before a picture representing our
+Lady of Mercy, imploring her with tears and sobs. Interested, in spite
+of myself, by this so true and so profound grief, I have on several
+occasions employed the right which my sacred office gives me, to try
+and penetrate into this ulcerated heart, and obtain from my penitent a
+confession, which would permit me to give her some consolation."</p>
+
+<p>"And I presume that you have not succeeded, father?"</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! No, I have not."</p>
+
+<p>"Allow me to repeat to you, that, up to the present I do not see in
+this very sad story, which is to some extent, however, that of most
+women, anything very interesting to me."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait, brother, I am coming to that."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, proceed."</p>
+
+<p>"One day, when this lady appeared to me to be more sad than usual, and
+I redoubled my efforts to induce her to open her heart to me&mdash;doubtless
+overcome by my solicitations, she said these words to me, which I
+repeat to you exactly:&mdash;'My father, I am an unhappy, cowardly, and
+infamous creature, and a terrible malediction weighs on me. Only one
+man has the right to know the secret which I try, in vain, to stifle in
+my heart. Upon this man depends my salvation. He can condemn or acquit
+me: but whatever be the sentence he may pronounce, I will bow without a
+murmur beneath his will, too happy to expiate at this price the crime
+of which I have been guilty.'"</p>
+
+<p>While the monk was pronouncing these words, the usually pale face of
+the adventurer had turned livid, a convulsive trembling agitated his
+limbs, and, in spite of his efforts to appear calm, he was constrained
+to lean against one of the tent pickets, lest he should fall on the
+ground.</p>
+
+<p>"Go on!" he said, in a hoarse voice. "Did this woman tell you the man's
+name?"</p>
+
+<p>"She did, brother. 'Alas!' she said to me, 'Unfortunately the man on
+whom my destiny depends is the most implacable enemy of our nation. He
+is one of the principal chiefs of those ferocious adventurers who have
+vowed a merciless war against Spain. I shall never meet him, except
+in the horrors of a combat, or during the sack of a town fired by his
+orders. In a word, the man I am speaking to you about is no other than
+the terrible Montbarts the Exterminator.'"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" the adventurer muttered, in a choking voice, as he pressed his
+hand forcibly against his chest, "The woman said that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, brother; such are the words she uttered."</p>
+
+<p>"And then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Then, brother, I, a poor monk, promised her to seek you, to find you,
+no matter where you were, and repeat her words to you. I had only death
+to fear in trying to see you, and I long ago offered God the sacrifice
+of my life."</p>
+
+<p>"You have acted like a noble-hearted man, monk; and I thank you for
+having had confidence in me. Have you nothing to add?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, brother, I have. When the lady saw me fully resolved to brave all
+perils for the sake of finding you, she added, 'Go, then, my father:
+it is doubtless Heaven that takes pity on me, and inspires you at this
+moment. If you succeed in reaching Montbarts, tell him that I have a
+secret to confide to him, on which the happiness of his whole life
+depends; but that he must make haste, if he wish to learn it, for I
+feel that my days are numbered, and that I shall soon die.' I promised
+her to accomplish her wishes faithfully, and I have come."</p>
+
+<p>There was a silence for some minutes. Montbarts walked up and down with
+hanging head, and arms folded on his chest, stopping every now and then
+to stamp his foot savagely: then, resuming his hurried walk, while
+muttering unconnected words in a low voice.</p>
+
+<p>All at once he stopped before the monk, and looked him straight in the
+face.</p>
+
+<p>"You have not told me all," he said to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, brother; everything, word by word."</p>
+
+<p>"Still there is an important detail, which you have doubtless
+forgotten, as you have passed it over in silence?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not understand to what you are alluding, brother," the monk
+replied, gravely.</p>
+
+<p>"You have forgotten to reveal to me the name and position of this
+woman, father."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true: but it is not forgetfulness on my part. In acting thus,
+I have obeyed the orders I received. The lady implored me to tell you
+nothing touching her name or position. She reserves that for herself,
+when you are alone together: and I swore to keep her secret."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Ah! Seņor monk," the adventurer exclaimed, with a wrath the more
+terrible because it was concentrated; "You have taken that oath?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, brother, and will keep it at all risks," he answered firmly.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurer burst into a hoarse laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"You are doubtless ignorant," he said, in a hissing voice, "that we
+<i>ladrones</i>, as your countrymen call us, possess marvellous secrets to
+untie the most rebel tongues, and that you are in my power."</p>
+
+<p>"I am in the hands of God, brother&mdash;try it. I am only a poor
+defenceless man, incapable of resisting you. Torture me, then, if such
+be your good pleasure; but know that I will die, without revealing my
+secret."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts bent a flashing glance on the monk who stood so calm before
+him; and then, a moment after, struck his forehead angrily.</p>
+
+<p>"I am mad!" he exclaimed: "What do I care for this name&mdash;do I not
+know it already? Listen, father. Forgive me what I said to you, for
+passion blinded me. You came to this island freely, and shall leave it
+freely&mdash;in my turn I swear it to you; and I am not more accustomed to
+break any oaths I take&mdash;no matter their nature&mdash;than you are."</p>
+
+<p>"I know it, brother. I have nothing to forgive you. I see that grief
+led you astray, and I pity you, for Heaven has chosen me, I feel a
+presentiment of it, to bring a great misfortune upon you."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you speak truly. I did not seek this woman&mdash;I tried to forget
+her, and it is she who voluntarily places herself in my path. It is
+well, Heaven will judge between her and me. She demands that I will
+go and see her, and I will do so, but she must only blame herself for
+the terrible consequences of our interview. Still, I consent to leave
+her yet one chance of escape. When you return to her, urge her not to
+try to see me again. You see, that I have a little pity for her in my
+heart, in spite of all she made me suffer; but if, in spite of your
+entreaties, she persists in meeting me, in that case her will be done.
+I will go to the place of meeting she may select."</p>
+
+<p>"I know where it is, brother, and am ordered to point it out to you
+today."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah," the filibuster said, suspiciously, "she has forgotten nothing.
+Well, where is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"The lady, you can understand, cannot quit the island, even if she
+wished to do so."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true. So we are to meet in Hispaniola itself?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"And what spot has she selected?"</p>
+
+<p>"The great Savannah, that separates Mirebalais from San Juan de Goava."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! The spot is famously chosen for an ambuscade," the filibuster
+said, with a sneering laugh, "for if I remember rightly, it is on
+Spanish territory."</p>
+
+<p>"It forms the extreme limit, brother. Still, I will try to induce the
+lady to choose another spot, if you are afraid about your safety at
+this one."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts shrugged his shoulders with a contemptuous laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"I afraid!" he said. "Nonsense, monk, you must be mad! What do I care
+for the Spaniards, if five hundred of them were ambushed to surprise
+me, I should be able to get away from them! It is settled, then, that
+if the lady persist in her intention of having an explanation with me,
+I will go to the Savannah, which extends between Mirebalais and San
+Juan de Goava, at the confluence of the great river and the Artibonite."</p>
+
+<p>"I will do what you desire, brother; but if the lady insist, in spite
+of my remonstrances and entreaties, on the interview taking place, how
+am I to warn you?"</p>
+
+<p>"As it is possible for you to come here, you will be the better able;
+without attracting suspicion, to enter the French part of St. Domingo."</p>
+
+<p>"I will try, at any rate, brother, since it must absolutely be so."</p>
+
+<p>"You will light a large fire on the coast in the vicinity of Port
+Margot, and I shall know what it means."</p>
+
+<p>"I will obey you, brother: but when am I to light the fire?"</p>
+
+<p>"How long do you propose remaining here?"</p>
+
+<p>"I intend to leave immediately after our interview."</p>
+
+<p>"This evening, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah, then there is a Spanish vessel in the neighbourhood?"</p>
+
+<p>"Probably so, brother; but if you discover it and capture it, how shall
+I succeed in returning to Hispaniola?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; this consideration saves the Gavachos: but believe,
+after due reflection, I think it my duty to give you some advice."</p>
+
+<p>"Whatever it may be, brother, coming from you, I shall receive it with
+pleasure."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then, carry out your intention. Start at once; tomorrow it will
+not be pleasant for you in these waters, and I would not answer for
+your safety or that of your vessel. Do you comprehend me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly, brother; and for the signal?"</p>
+
+<p>"Light it fifteen days from today, and I will arrange so as to arrive
+at St. Domingo about that time."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"And now, monk, farewell till we meet again, as it is probable we shall
+do."</p>
+
+<p>"It is probable, indeed, brother. Farewell, and may the merciful Lord
+be with you!"</p>
+
+<p>"So be it," the filibuster said, with an ironical laugh.</p>
+
+<p>He gave a parting wave of his hand to the monk, threw his fusil on his
+shoulder, and went off, but a few minutes after stopped and went back.</p>
+
+<p>The Franciscan had remained motionless at the same spot.</p>
+
+<p>"One last word, father," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, brother," he answered, gently.</p>
+
+<p>"Take my advice, employ all your power over the lady to induce her to
+give up this meeting, whose consequences may be terrible."</p>
+
+<p>"I will try impossibilities to succeed, brother," the monk replied; "I
+will pray to Heaven to permit me to persuade my penitent."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," Montbarts added, in a gloomy voice, "it would be better for her
+and for me, perhaps, if we never met again."</p>
+
+<p>And roughly turning his back on the monk, he hurried along the track,
+where he speedily disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>When Fray Arsenio felt certain that this time the adventurer had really
+gone, he gently raised the curtain of the tent and stepped inside.</p>
+
+<p>A woman was kneeling there on the bare ground, with her head buried in
+her hands, and praying with stifled sobs.</p>
+
+<p>"Have I punctually accomplished your orders, my daughter?" the monk
+said.</p>
+
+<p>The woman drew herself up and turned her lovely pale and tear-swollen
+face toward the monk.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, padre," she murmured, in a low and trembling voice. "Bless you
+for not abandoning me in my distress."</p>
+
+<p>"Is this really the man with whom you desire an interview?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it is he, father."</p>
+
+<p>"And you still insist on seeing him?"</p>
+
+<p>She hesitated for a moment, a shudder ran over her whole person, and
+then she murmured in a hardly intelligible voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I must, father."</p>
+
+<p>"You will reflect between this and then, I hope," he continued.</p>
+
+<p>"No, no," she said, with a sorrowful shake of the head; "if that
+man were to plunge his dagger into my heart, I must have a final
+explanation with him."</p>
+
+<p>"Your will be done," he said</p>
+
+<p>At this moment, a slight sound was heard outside.</p>
+
+<p>The monk went out, but returned almost immediately.</p>
+
+<p>"Get ready, madam," he said; "our crew have come to fetch you. Remember
+the parting advice that <i>ladrón</i> gave me, and let us be gone as soon as
+possible."</p>
+
+<p>Without replying, the lady rose, wrapped herself carefully in her
+mantilla, and went out.</p>
+
+<p>An hour later, she left Nevis, accompanied by Fray Arsenio Mendoza.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts had reached St. Kitts long before.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE EXPEDITION.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>During the entire passage from Nevis to St. Kitts Montbarts was in a
+strange state of excitement.</p>
+
+<p>The interview he had held with the monk had rearoused in his heart a
+profound sorrow which time had deadened but not cauterized, and at the
+first word that fell in this hour's conversation the wound burst open
+again, bleeding and livid as on the day of its receipt.</p>
+
+<p>How had this woman, whom he would not name, of whose presence in
+America he was ignorant, whom, in short, he fancied he had escaped by
+hiding himself among the filibusters, succeeded in so short a time, not
+only in learning his presence in the islands, but also in finding him
+again? For what object did she insist on finding him? What interest
+could she have in seeing him?</p>
+
+<p>All these questions, which he asked himself in turn, necessarily
+remained unanswered, and for that very reason augmented his anxiety.</p>
+
+<p>For a moment he thought of laying an ambush in the straits of Nevis
+and St. Eustache, the two islands between which St. Kitts is situated,
+capturing the Spanish vessel, and obtaining by torture the information
+the monk had refused to give him.</p>
+
+<p>But he gave up this plan almost immediately; he had pledged his word of
+honour, and would not break it for anything in the world.</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile, night had set in, and the canoe was still advancing.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts steered for the lugger, which was anchored a short distance
+from land.</p>
+
+<p>When the light boat was under the vessel's counter, the filibuster made
+his engagé a sign to lay on his oars, and shouted in a loud voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Lugger, ahoy!"</p>
+
+<p>At once, a man whose black outline was designed on the dark blue
+horizon, leant over.</p>
+
+<p>"Boat ahoy!" he shouted.</p>
+
+<p>"Is that you, Bowline?" Montbarts continued.</p>
+
+<p>"All right."</p>
+
+<p>"Is Michael aboard?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, admiral."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, you have recognised me, my lad?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course," said the Breton.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you are watching over my prisoner?"</p>
+
+<p>"I answer for him."</p>
+
+<p>"But do not annoy him unnecessarily."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, admiral, we will be gentle with him."</p>
+
+<p>"Is Omopoua aboard at this moment?"</p>
+
+<p>"Here I am, master," a second voice immediately replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah," the filibuster said with satisfaction, "all the better. I
+want you&mdash;come ashore."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you in a hurry, master?"</p>
+
+<p>"A great hurry."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, wait a moment."</p>
+
+<p>And ere the filibuster could guess the Carib's intention, the noise of
+a body falling in the water could be heard, and two or three minutes
+later the Indian rested his hands on the gunwale of the canoe.</p>
+
+<p>"Here I am," he said.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts could not refrain from smiling on seeing with what
+promptitude the savage obeyed his orders. He held out his hand, and
+helped him to get into the boat.</p>
+
+<p>"Why such a hurry?" he said to him in a tone of friendly reproach.</p>
+
+<p>The Indian shook himself like a drowned poodle.</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense," he said, "I am all right."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you got the Indian?" Bowline asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes: now good night; you will see me tomorrow."</p>
+
+<p>"Tomorrow?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pull," the filibuster said to the engagé.</p>
+
+<p>The latter dipped his paddles, and the canoe resumed its course.</p>
+
+<p>Ten minutes later, it ran aground at the very spot where Montbarts had
+seized it for the purpose of going to Nevis. The three men landed on
+the beach, pulled up the canoe, and went off in the direction of the
+hatto.</p>
+
+<p>They passed through the town and a swarm of filibusters, who were
+celebrating by songs, shouts, and libations their last hours of liberty.</p>
+
+<p>They went on in silence. When the three men reached the hatto,
+Montbarts lit a candle, and searched the house with the greatest care,
+to make sure that no stranger was present; then he returned to his two
+comrades, who were waiting for him in the Esplanade.</p>
+
+<p>"Come in," he merely said to them.</p>
+
+<p>They followed him.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts sat down in a chair, and then turned to the Carib.</p>
+
+<p>"I have to talk with you, Omopoua," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Good," the Indian remarked, joyously; "in that case you have need of
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"If that were true you would be satisfied, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I should be."</p>
+
+<p>"For what reason?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because, since I have found a white man who is good and generous, I
+am anxious to prove to you that all the Caribs are not ferocious and
+untameable, but know how to be grateful."</p>
+
+<p>"I promised you, I think, to take you back to your country?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you made me that promise."</p>
+
+<p>"Unfortunately, as I am appointed chief of an important expedition,
+which will probably last some time, it is impossible for me at this
+moment to take you back to Haiti."</p>
+
+<p>The Indian's face grew dark on hearing this.</p>
+
+<p>"Do not grieve, but listen to me attentively," the filibuster
+continued, who had noticed the change that took place in the Indian's
+face.</p>
+
+<p>"I am listening to you."</p>
+
+<p>"What I cannot do you are able to effect by yourself, if I supply you
+with the means."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not exactly understand what the white Chief means; I am only a
+poor Indian, with limited ideas. I require to have things explained to
+me very clearly before I understand them; but it is true, that when I
+do understand I never forget."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a Carib, hence you know how to manage a canoe?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," the Indian answered, with a proud smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose I gave you a canoe, do you believe that you could fetch Haiti?"</p>
+
+<p>"The great land is very far away," he said, in a sorrowful voice, "the
+voyage very long for a single man, however brave he may be."</p>
+
+<p>"Agreed; but suppose I placed in the canoe not only provisions, but
+cutlasses, axes, daggers, and four fusils, with powder and ball?"</p>
+
+<p>"The pale Chief would do that!" he said, with an incredulous air. "Thus
+armed, who could resist Omopoua?"</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose I did more?" the adventurer continued, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"The Chief is jesting; he is very gay. He says to himself, the Indians
+are credulous; I will have a laugh at the expense of Omopoua."</p>
+
+<p>"I am not jesting, Chief&mdash;on the contrary, I am very serious; I will
+give you the things I have enumerated to you, and, in order that you
+may reach your country in safety, I will lend you a comrade, a brave
+man, who will be your brother, and defend you as you would defend
+yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"And that companion?"</p>
+
+<p>"Is here," said Montbarts, pointing to his engagé, who was standing
+calm and motionless by his side.</p>
+
+<p>"Then I am not to make the expedition with you, Montbarts?" the latter
+said, in a sad voice, and with a reproachful accent.</p>
+
+<p>"Reassure yourself," said Montbarts, tapping him gently on the
+shoulder; "the mission I send you on is most confidential, and even
+more perilous than the expedition I am undertaking. I wanted a devoted
+man&mdash;another self&mdash;and I have chosen you."</p>
+
+<p>"You have done well, in that case; I will prove to you that you are not
+mistaken about me."</p>
+
+<p>"I am convinced of that already, my lad. Do you accept this companion,
+Omopoua? He will help you to pass without being insulted through the
+filibusters you may meet on your route."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! The pale Chief really loves Omopoua. What is the Indian to do on
+arriving in his country?"</p>
+
+<p>"Omopoua's brothers have sought shelter, I think, in the neighbourhood
+of the Artibonite?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, in the great savannahs to which the French have given the name of
+Mirebalais."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! Omopoua will go and join his friends; he will tell them in what
+way the filibusters treat the Caribs: he will present his companion to
+them, and wait."</p>
+
+<p>"I will wait: the pale Chief, then, is coming to Haiti?"</p>
+
+<p>"Probably," said Montbarts, with a smile of indefinable meaning; "and
+the proof is, that my engagé will remain with your tribe till my
+arrival."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! I will await the coming of the pale Chief. When am I start?"</p>
+
+<p>"This very night. Go down to the beach; go in my name to the owner of
+the canoe which brought us ashore&mdash;here is money," and he gave him
+several piastres; "tell him that I buy his boat exactly as it stands.
+You will lay in provisions at the same time, and then wait for your
+comrade, to whom I have a few words to say&mdash;but he will rejoin you
+soon."</p>
+
+<p>"I will go, then; gratitude is in my heart, and not on my lips. On the
+day when you ask for my life I will give it you, because it is yours,
+as well as that of all those who love me. Farewell!"</p>
+
+<p>And he made a movement to leave the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are you going?" Montbarts asked him.</p>
+
+<p>"I am off; did you not give me leave to go?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but you are forgetting something."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"The arms I promised you. Take from the rack a fusil for yourself, and
+four others, which you can dispose of as you please, six cutlasses,
+six daggers, and six hatchets; when you leave port, on passing the
+lugger, you will ask Michael the Basque, in my name, for two barrels of
+gunpowder and two bags of bullets&mdash;he will give them to you. Now go,
+and I wish you all good fortune."</p>
+
+<p>The Carib, overcome by this generosity, so simple and so full of
+grandeur, knelt to the adventurer, and seizing his feet, which he
+placed on his head, he exclaimed, in a deeply affected voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I pay you homage as to the best of men. I and mine are henceforth and
+eternally your devoted slaves." He got up, placed on his shoulder the
+arms which the engagé handed him, and quitted the hatto.</p>
+
+<p>For some minutes his footsteps could be heard resounding on the path;
+but this sound gradually died away, and a complete silence returned.</p>
+
+<p>"Now for us two, Olonnais!" Montbarts then said, addressing the engagé.</p>
+
+<p>The latter drew nearer.</p>
+
+<p>"I am listening, master," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"I saw you today for the first time, and yet you pleased me at the very
+first glance," the adventurer continued. "I fancy myself a tolerable
+physiognomist. Your frank and open face, your bold-looking eyes, and
+the expression of audacity and intelligence spread over your features,
+disposed me in your favour. That is the reason why I bought you. I
+trust that I am not deceived about you; but I wish to make trial of
+you. You know that I am at liberty to shorten your engagement, or even,
+if I like, restore you your freedom tomorrow, so think of that, and act
+accordingly."</p>
+
+<p>"Whether engaged or free I shall always be devoted to you, Montbarts,"
+the Olonnais said, "hence do not speak to me of recompense, for it is
+useless with me: make your trial, and I hope to emerge from it with
+honour."</p>
+
+<p>"That is speaking like a man and a frank adventurer: listen to me,
+then, and do not let a word of what you are about to hear escape your
+lips."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be dumb."</p>
+
+<p>"In ten days at the most I shall anchor in Port Margot in St. Domingo;
+the expedition I command is intended to take Tortoise Isle by surprise;
+but while we are occupied on our side in surprising the Spaniards, they
+must not be able to attack us in the rear, and ruin our establishments
+at Grande Terre."</p>
+
+<p>"I understand; Omopoua's Caribs are scattered along the Spanish
+frontier, and must be converted into allies of the expedition."</p>
+
+<p>"The very thing&mdash;you have understood me perfectly. Such is your
+missive; but you must act with extreme cleverness and considerable
+prudence, in order not to give the alarm to the Gavachos on one hand,
+or arouse the suspicious of the Caribs on the other; the Indians are
+susceptible and mistrustful, especially with white men, against
+whom they have so many causes of complaint. The part you have to
+play is rather difficult, but I think you will succeed&mdash;thanks to
+the influence of Omopoua; besides, two days after my arrival at Port
+Margot, I will proceed to the savannahs of the Artibonite, in order
+to have an understanding, and to make the arrangements I may consider
+necessary. You see that I act toward you with perfect frankness, and
+rather as with a brother than an engagé."</p>
+
+<p>"I thank you for it; you shall have no cause to repent it."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to believe it&mdash;ah! A final recommendation, of secondary
+importance, but, for all that, serious."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"The Spaniards frequently hunt, or make excursions in the savannahs of
+the Artibonite; watch them, though without letting them perceive you;
+let them not have the slightest suspicion of what we are meditating
+against them, for the least imprudence might have excessively grave
+consequences for the success of our plans."</p>
+
+<p>"I will act with prudence, be assured."</p>
+
+<p>"Now, my lad, I have only to wish you a pleasant trip, and successful
+result."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you allow me, in my turn, to ask you a question before departing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, I allow it."</p>
+
+<p>"For what reason have you, who possess so many brave and devoted
+friends, instead of applying to one of them, chosen an obscure
+engagé, whom you hardly know, to confide to him so difficult and so
+confidential a mission?"</p>
+
+<p>"Are you anxious to know?" the adventurer asked, laughingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, if you do not consider the question indiscreet."</p>
+
+<p>"Not the least in the world, and you shall be satisfied in a couple
+of words. Apart from the good opinion I have of you, and which is
+only personal, I have chosen you, because you are only a poor engagé,
+who arrived from France but two days ago&mdash;no one knows you, or is
+aware that I have purchased you: for this reason no one will dream of
+suspecting you, and consequently you will be a more valuable agent to
+me, as no one will imagine that you are my plenipotentiary, and acting
+under my orders. Now do you understand, my lad?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly, and I thank you for the explanation you have given me.
+Good-bye; within an hour the Carib and I will have left St. Kitts."</p>
+
+<p>"Allow him to guide you during the voyage, that man is very clever,
+though an Indian, and he will conduct you so that you will both reach
+port in safety."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not fail to do so; besides, the deference I shall show him
+will dispose him in my favour, and further advance the success of our
+projects."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come," the adventurer said, with a laugh, "I see that you are a
+sharp lad, and I now have good hopes of the issue of your mission."</p>
+
+<p>The Olonnais armed himself as the Carib had done, then took leave of
+his master, and went away.</p>
+
+<p>"Come," Montbarts muttered, when he was alone, "I believe that my plans
+are beginning to assume consistency, and that I shall soon be able to
+deal a grand stroke."</p>
+
+<p>The next morning at sunrise an unusual agitation prevailed in the
+township, which, however, was never very tranquil.</p>
+
+<p>The filibusters, armed to the teeth, were taking leave of their
+friends, and preparing to proceed on board the vessels for which they
+had enlisted on the previous day.</p>
+
+<p>The roads were cut up in all directions by a prodigious number of
+canoes which passed to and fro, carrying men and provisions to the
+departing ships.</p>
+
+<p>The Chevalier de Fontenay, surrounded by a numerous staff of renowned
+filibusters, and having at his side Montbarts, David Drake, and Michael
+the Basque, was standing at the end of the wooden mole that served as a
+landing place, and witnessing thence the departure of the adventurers.</p>
+
+<p>These men with bronzed complexion, energetic and ferocious features,
+and vigorous limbs, scarce clad in canvas drawers and old hats or caps,
+but armed with long fusils, manufactured at Dieppe expressly for them,
+having a heavy sharpened cutlass hanging from their belt, and carrying
+their stock of powder and bullets, had a strange and singularly
+formidable appearance, rendered even more striking by the expression of
+carelessness and indomitable audacity spread over their faces.</p>
+
+<p>On seeing them it was easy to understand the terror with which they
+must inspire the Spaniards, and the incredible exploits they achieved
+almost as if in play, reckoning their lives as nothing, and only seeing
+the object, that is to say, plunder.</p>
+
+<p>As they defiled before the governor and the officers elected to command
+them, they saluted them respectfully, because discipline demanded it,
+but the salute had nothing low or servile about it, it was that of men
+fully conscious of their value, and aware that though sailors today,
+they might, as they liked, be captains tomorrow.</p>
+
+<p>Towards midday the crews were complete, and only the Admiral and three
+captains were still ashore.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," Montbarts said to his officers, "so soon as we are out
+to sea, each of you will sail as you like; we have but a small stock
+of provisions on board, but the islands we pass will supply us, do
+not hesitate to pillage the corales of the Gavachos, for that will be
+so much taken from the enemy. Hence it is settled that we will each
+proceed separately to the general meeting place, for prudence urges
+us not to let the enemy suspect our strength; our meeting place is
+the northern island of the Grand Key; the first to arrive will await
+the two others, there I will give you my final instructions about the
+object of the expedition, of which you already know a part."</p>
+
+<p>"So then," said M. de Fontenay, "you insist on keeping your secret?"</p>
+
+<p>"If you absolutely demand, sir," Montbart replied, "I will&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"No, no," he interrupted him with a laugh; "keep it, for I do not know
+what to do with it; besides, I have pretty nearly guessed your secret."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah," Montbarts said with an air of incredulity.</p>
+
+<p>"Confound it, I am greatly mistaken or you mean to make some attempt on
+St. Domingo."</p>
+
+<p>The adventurer only answered by a crafty smile, and took leave of the
+governor, who rubbed his hands joyously, for he was persuaded that he
+had guessed the secret which it was attempted to conceal from him. An
+hour later the three vessels raised their anchors, set sail, and went
+off after giving a parting salute to the land, which was immediately
+answered by the battery at the point.</p>
+
+<p>They soon became confounded with the white mist on the horizon, and ere
+long disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," M. de Fontenay said to his officers as he returned to the
+government house, "you will see that I am not mistaken, and that this
+demon of a Montbarts really has a design on St. Domingo. Lord help the
+Spaniards!"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE HATTO.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>We will leave the filibustering flotilla steering through the
+inextricable labyrinth of the Antilles, and transport ourselves to St.
+Domingo, as the French call it, Hispaniola as Columbus christened it,
+or Haiti as the Caribs, its first and only true owners, called it.</p>
+
+<p>And when we speak of the Caribs, we mean the black as well as the red,
+for it is a singular fact, of which many persons are ignorant, that
+some Caribs were black, and so thoroughly resembled the African race,
+that when the French planters settled at St. Vincent, and brought
+with them Negro slaves, the black Caribs, indignant at resembling men
+degraded by slavery, and fearful too lest at a later date their color
+might serve as a pretext to make them endure the same fate, fled into
+the wildest recesses of the forest, and in order to create a visible
+distinction between their race and the slaves brought to the island,
+they compressed the foreheads of their new born infants, so that they
+became completely flattened, which in the ensuing generation produced,
+as it were, a new race, and afterwards became the symbol of their
+independence.</p>
+
+<p>Before resuming our narrative, we ask the reader's permission to
+indulge in a little geography: as many of the incidents of the history
+of filibustering will take place at St. Domingo; it is indispensable
+that this island should be well known.</p>
+
+<p>St. Domingo, discovered on December 6, 1492, by Christopher Columbus,
+is, by the general verdict, the most lovely of all the Antilles. From
+the centre of the island rises a group of mountains, springing one from
+the other, from which issue three chains, running in three different
+directions. The longest stretches to the west, and passes through
+the middle of the island, dividing it into two nearly equal parts.
+The second chain runs north, and ends at Cape Fou. The third, less
+extensive than the preceding, at first follows the same direction, but
+ere long taking a curve to the south, terminates in Cape St. Mark.</p>
+
+<p>In the interior of the island there are several other mountain ranges,
+though much less considerable. The result of this multiplicity of
+mountains is that communication, especially at the time when our story
+is laid, was excessively difficult between the north and south of the
+isle.</p>
+
+<p>At the foot of all these mountains are immense plains covered with a
+luxurious vegetation; the mountains are intersected by ravines, which
+keep up a constant and beneficent humidity; they contain different
+metals, in addition to rock crystal, coal, sulphur, and quarries of
+porphyry, slate and marble, and are covered with forests of bananas,
+palms and mimosas of every species.</p>
+
+<p>Although the rivers are numerous, the largest are unfortunately
+scarcely navigable, and cannot be ascended by canoes for more than a
+few leagues; the principal ones are the Neyva, the Macoris, the Usaque,
+or river of Montecristo, the Ozama, the Juna and the Artibonite, the
+most extensive of all.</p>
+
+<p>Seen from the offing, the appearances of this island is enchanting; it
+resembles an immense bouquet of flowers rising from the bosom of the
+sea.</p>
+
+<p>We are not going to write the history of the colony of St. Domingo, but
+will merely say that this island so rich and fertile had, through the
+carelessness, cruelty and avarice of the Spaniards, fallen, one hundred
+and fifty years after its discovery, into such a state of wretchedness
+and misery, that the Spanish Government was compelled to send to this
+colony, which became not only unproductive but burdensome, funds to pay
+the troops and officials.</p>
+
+<p>While St. Domingo was thus slowly decaying, new colonists, brought by
+accident, established themselves on the north west of the island, and
+took possession of it, in spite of the resistance and opposition of the
+Spaniards.</p>
+
+<p>These new colonists were French adventurers, most of them expelled from
+St. Christopher on the descent of Admiral de Toledo on that colony, and
+who were wandering about the Antilles in search of a refuge.</p>
+
+<p>At the period of the discovery, the first Spaniards had left on the
+island some forty head of cattle; these animals, restored to liberty,
+rapidly multiplied and traversed the savannahs of the interior in
+immense herds; the French adventurers, on their arrival, did not dream
+of cultivating the soil, but, seduced by the attractions of a perilous
+chase, they occupied themselves exclusively in pursuing the bulls and
+the wild boars, which were also very numerous and extremely formidable.</p>
+
+<p>The sole occupation of these adventurers then was the chase; they
+preserved the hides of cattle and dried the meat by smoke in the Indian
+fashion. Hence comes the name of buccaneers, for the Caribs gave the
+name of <i>boucans</i> to the spot where they smoked the flesh of the
+prisoners taken in war, and whom they ate after fattening them.</p>
+
+<p>We shall soon have occasion to return to this subject and enter into
+fuller details about these singular men.</p>
+
+<p>Still, in spite of their love of independence, these adventurers had
+understood the necessity of creating outlets for the sale of their
+hides. Hence they established several counters at Port Margot and Port
+de la Paix, which they regarded as the capital of their establishments;
+but their position was most precarious owing to the proximity of the
+Spaniards, who had hitherto been sole masters of the island, and would
+not consent to have them as such near neighbours; hence they constantly
+waged a savage war, which was the more cruel because quarter was not
+granted on either side.</p>
+
+<p>Such was the situation of St. Domingo at the time when we resume our
+narrative, about a fortnight after the departure of the filibustering
+fleet from St. Kitts under the command of Montbarts the Exterminator.</p>
+
+<p>The sun, already low on the horizon, was enormously lengthening the
+shadows of the trees, the evening breeze was rising, gently agitating
+the leaves and tall grass, when a man mounted on a powerful horse,
+and wearing the costume of the Spanish Campesinos, followed a scarce
+traced path which wound through the centre of a vast plain covered
+with magnificent plantations of sugar cane and coffee, and led to an
+elegant hatto, whose pretty mirador commanded the country for a long
+distance.</p>
+
+<p>This man appeared to be five and twenty years of age at the most;
+his features were handsome, but imprinted with an expression of
+insupportable pride and disdain; his very simple dress was only
+relieved by a long rapier, whose hilt of carved silver hung on his left
+hip and showed him to be a gentleman, as the nobility alone had the
+right to wear a sword.</p>
+
+<p>Four black slaves, half naked, and whose bodies glistened with
+perspiration, ran behind his horse, one carrying a richly damascened
+fusil, the second a game bag, and the two others a dead boar, whose
+tied feet were resting on a bamboo supported by the shoulders of the
+poor fellows.</p>
+
+<p>But the rider seemed to trouble himself but little about his
+companions, or rather his slaves, toward whom he did not deign to turn
+his head, even when speaking to them, which he did sometimes to ask
+them for directions in a harsh and contemptuous voice.</p>
+
+<p>He held in his band an embroidered handkerchief, with which he wiped
+away every moment the perspiration that inundated his forehead, and
+looked savagely around him, while urging his horse with the spur, to
+the great sorrow of the slaves who were forced to double their efforts
+to follow him.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," he at length asked in an ill-tempered tone, "shall we never
+arrive at this accursed hatto?"</p>
+
+<p>"In half an hour at the furthest, <i>mi amo</i>," a Negro answered
+respectfully, "there is the mirador over there."</p>
+
+<p>"What a deuce of a notion it was of my sister, to come and bury herself
+in this frightful hole instead of remaining quietly at her palace in
+St. Domingo. Women are mad, on my honour," he grumbled between his
+teeth.</p>
+
+<p>And he spiced this most ungallant observation by furiously digging the
+spurs into his horse, which started at a gallop.</p>
+
+<p>Still, he was rapidly approaching the hatto, all the details of which
+it was already easy to distinguish.</p>
+
+<p>It was a pretty and rather large mansion with a terraced roof,
+surmounted by a mirador and with a peristyle in front formed by four
+columns supporting a verandah.</p>
+
+<p>A thick hedge surrounded the house, which could only be reached by
+crossing a large garden; behind were the corrals to shut in the beasts,
+and the cottages of the Negroes, miserable, low and half ruined huts,
+built of clumsily intertwined branches and covered with palm leaves.</p>
+
+<p>This hatto, tranquil and solitary, in the midst of this plain of
+luxuriant vegetation, and half concealed by the trees that formed a
+screen of foliage, had a really enchanting aspect, which, however, did
+not seem to produce on the traveller's mind any other effect but that
+of profound weariness and lively annoyance.</p>
+
+<p>The arrival of the stranger had doubtless been signalled by the sentry
+stationed on the mirador to watch the surrounding country, for a
+horseman emerged at a gallop from the hatto, and came toward the small
+party composed of the gentleman we have described and the four slaves
+who still ran behind him, displaying their white, sharp teeth, and
+blowing like grampuses.</p>
+
+<p>The newcomer was a man of short stature, but his wide shoulders and
+solid limbs denoted far from common muscular strength, he was about
+forty years of age, his features were harsh and marked, and the
+expression of his countenance was sombre and crafty. A broad-brimmed
+straw hat nearly concealed his face, a cloak called a poncho, made
+of one piece, and with a hole in the middle to pass his head through,
+covered his shoulders; the hilt of a long knife peeped out of his right
+boot, a sabre hung on his left side, and a long fusil was lying across
+the front of his saddle. When he arrived within a few paces of the
+gentleman, he stopped his horse short on its hind legs, uncovered, and
+bowed respectfully.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Santas tardes</i>, Seņor Don Sancho," he said in an obsequious voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah! It is you, Birbomono," the young man said, as he carelessly
+touched his hat; "what the deuce are you doing here? I fancied you were
+hung long ago."</p>
+
+<p>"Your Excellency is jesting," the other replied, with an ill-tempered
+grimace, "I am the Seņora's Major-domo."</p>
+
+<p>"I compliment her on it, and you, too."</p>
+
+<p>"The Seņora was very anxious about your Excellency, and I was
+preparing, by her orders, to make a battue in the neighbourhood. She
+will be delighted to see you arrive without misadventure."</p>
+
+<p>"What misadventure?" the young man said, as he loosened his rein; "What
+do you mean, scamp? And what had I to fear on the roads?"</p>
+
+<p>"Your Excellency cannot be ignorant that the ladrones infest the
+savannahs."</p>
+
+<p>The young man burst into a laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"The ladrones! What a pleasant story you are telling me, too; come, run
+and announce my arrival to my sister, without further chattering."</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo did not let the order be repeated, but bowed, and set
+off at a gallop.</p>
+
+<p>Ten minutes later, Don Sancho dismounted in front of the peristyle of
+the hatto, where a young lady of rare beauty, but cadaverous pallor,
+and who appeared hardly able to keep up, as she was so weak and ill,
+was awaiting his arrival.</p>
+
+<p>This lady was the sister of Seņor Don Sancho, and the owner of the
+hatto.</p>
+
+<p>The two young people embraced each other for a long while without
+exchanging a word, and then Don Sancho offered his arm to his sister,
+and entered the house with her, leaving the Major-domo to look after
+his horse and baggage.</p>
+
+<p>The young gentleman led his sister to an easy chair, fetched one for
+himself, rolled it up to her side, and sat down.</p>
+
+<p>"At last," she said a moment later, in an affectionate voice, as
+she took one of the young man's hands in her own, "I see you again,
+brother; you are here, near me&mdash;how glad I am to see you."</p>
+
+<p>"My dear Clara," Don Sancho replied, as he kissed her forehead, "we
+have been separated for nearly a year."</p>
+
+<p>"Alas!" she murmured.</p>
+
+<p>"And during that year many things have doubtless happened, of which you
+will inform me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Alas! My life during this year may be summed up in two words&mdash;I have
+suffered."</p>
+
+<p>"Poor sister, how changed you are in so little time, I could hardly
+recognize you; I came to St. Domingo with such joy, and no sooner had I
+landed than I went to your palace; your husband, who has not altered,
+and whom I found as heavy and silent as usual, with an increased dose
+of importance, doubtless the result of his high position, told me that
+you were not very well, and that the physicians had ordered you country
+air."</p>
+
+<p>"It is true," she said, with a sad smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but I fancied you merely indisposed, and I find you dying."</p>
+
+<p>"Let us not talk of that, Sancho, I implore you; what matter if I am
+ill? Did you receive my letter?"</p>
+
+<p>"Had I not, should I be here? Two hours after its receipt I set out;
+for three days," he continued with a smile, "I have been going uphill
+and down dale, along frightful roads, to reach you the sooner."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, oh thanks, Sancho; your presence renders me very happy&mdash;you
+will remain for a while with me, will you not?"</p>
+
+<p>"As long as you like, dear sister, for I am a free man."</p>
+
+<p>"Free!" she repeated, looking at him with an air of amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, yes; his Excellency, the Duc de Peņaflor, my illustrious father
+and yours, the Viceroy of New Spain, has deigned to grant me an
+unlimited leave."</p>
+
+<p>At her father's name a slight shudder ran over the young lady's person,
+and her eyes became dimmed with tears.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah," she said, "my father is well?"</p>
+
+<p>"Better than ever."</p>
+
+<p>"And has he spoken about me?"</p>
+
+<p>The young man bit his lips.</p>
+
+<p>"He spoke to me about you very little," he said; "but I in revenge,
+said a good deal about you, which re-established the balance: I even
+believe that he granted me the leave I asked in great measure to free
+himself from my chattering."</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara hung her head without replying, and her brother fixed upon
+her a glance full of tender pity.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us talk about yourself," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"No, no, Sancho; we had better talk about <i>him</i>." she replied
+hesitatingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Of <i>him!</i>" he said in a hollow voice, and with a groan; "Alas, poor
+sister, what can I tell you? All my efforts have been vain; I have
+discovered nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes;" she murmured, "his measures were well taken to make him
+disappear. Oh, Heaven! Heaven!" she exclaimed, clasping her hands
+wildly, "Will you not take pity on me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Calm yourself, I implore you, sister; I will see, I will seek&mdash;I will
+redouble my efforts, and perhaps I shall at length succeed&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"No," she interrupted him, "never, never shall we be able to effect
+anything; he is condemned, condemned by my father; that implacable man
+will never restore him to me! Oh! I know my father better than you do;
+you are a man, Sancho, you can try to struggle against him, but he has
+crushed me, crushed me at a single blow; he broke my heart by a deadly
+pressure in making me the innocent accomplice of an infernal vengeance!
+Then he coldly reproached me with a dishonour which is his work, and
+at the same blow eternally destroyed the happiness of three beings who
+would have loved him, and whose future he held in his hands."</p>
+
+<p>"And you, my dear Clara, do you know nothing&mdash;have you discovered
+nothing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," she replied, looking at him fixedly, "I have made a horrible
+discovery."</p>
+
+<p>"You terrify me, Clara; what do you mean? Explain yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"Not at present, my dear Sancho, not at present, for the time has not
+arrived; so be patient. You know that I never had any secrets from you,
+for you alone have always loved me. I wrote to you to come that I
+might reveal this secret to you: in three days at the latest you shall
+know all, and then&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Then?" he said, looking at her intently.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you shall measure, as I do, the immense depth of the gulf into
+which I have fallen; but enough of this subject for the present, I am
+suffering terribly, so let us talk of something else."</p>
+
+<p>"Most willingly, my dear Clara; but what shall we talk about?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, whatever you like, dear, the rain, the fine weather, your
+journey, or anything of that sort."</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho understood that his sister was suffering from extreme
+nervous excitement, and that he would aggravate her already very
+serious condition by not acceding to her wishes; hence he made no
+objection, but readily yielded to her caprice.</p>
+
+<p>"Well then," he said, "my dear Clara, since that is the case, I
+will take advantage of the opportunity to ask you to give me some
+information."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it brother? I live in great seclusion as you see, and doubt
+whether I can satisfy you, but speak all the same."</p>
+
+<p>"You know, little sister, that I am a stranger in Hispaniola, where I
+only arrived four days ago, and then for the first time."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; you have never visited the island; what do you think of
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is frightful, that is to say admirable; frightful as regards roads,
+and admirable for scenery: you see that my proposition is not so
+illogical as it at first appeared."</p>
+
+<p>"In truth the roads are not convenient."</p>
+
+<p>"Say that there are none, and you will tell the truth.";</p>
+
+<p>"You are severe."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I am only just; if you had seen what magnificent roads we possess
+in Mexico, you would be of my opinion; but that is not the point at
+present."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, the information I want of you."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, that is true, I forgot it; but explain yourself, I am listening."</p>
+
+<p>"This is it. Just imagine when I embarked at Veracruz to come here, all
+the persons to whom I announced my departure invariably answered me
+with a desperate agreement:&mdash;'Ah! you are going to Hispaniola, Seņor
+Don Sancho de Peņaflor, hum, hum, take care.' On board the vessel I
+constantly heard the officers muttering among themselves 'keep a good
+watch, take care.' At last I reached St. Domingo; my first care was,
+as I told you, to go to the Count de Bejar, your husband, who received
+me as kindly as he is capable of doing; but when I announced my
+intention of coming to join you here, he frowned, and his first words
+were 'the deuce, Don Sancho, you want to go to the hatto, take care,
+take care.' It was enough to drive me mad; this sinister warning which
+everywhere and at all hours echoed in my ears infuriated me. I did
+not try to obtain any explanation from your husband, as I should not
+have succeeded; but I inwardly resolved to get to the bottom of this
+ill-omened phrase so soon as the opportunity presented itself. It did
+present itself soon, but I am no further advanced than I was before,
+and hence apply to you to solve the riddle."</p>
+
+<p>"But I am waiting for your explanation, for I confess that up to the
+present I have not understood a word you have been saying."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, let me finish. I had scarce set out with the slaves your
+husband lent me, when I saw the scamps constantly turn their heads
+to the right and left, with a look of terror. At first I attached no
+great importance to this; but they ran away on seeing a magnificent
+wild boar. I felt a fancy to shoot it, which I did by the way, and have
+brought it here. When these unlucky Negroes saw me cock my fusil they
+fell at my knees, clasping their hands with terror, and exclaiming in
+a most lamentable voice,&mdash;'Take care, Excellency, take care!' 'What
+must I take care of, you scoundrels?' I exclaimed in exasperation.
+'The <i>ladrones</i>, Excellency, the <i>ladrones</i>!' I could obtain no other
+explanation from them but this; but I hope, little sister, that you
+will be kind enough to tell me who these formidable ladrones are."</p>
+
+<p>He bent over her; but Doņa Clara, with her eyes widely dilated, her
+arms stretched out and her features distorted, fixed upon him such an
+extraordinary look, that he recoiled in horror.</p>
+
+<p>"The ladrones, the ladrones!" she twice repeated in a shrill voice;
+"Oh! have pity, brother."</p>
+
+<p>She rose to her full height, advanced a few paces mechanically, and
+fell fainting on the floor.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the meaning of this?" the young man asked himself, as he
+rushed forward to raise her.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE MAJOR-DOMO'S STORY.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Don Sancho, feeling very anxious about the state in which he saw his
+sister, hastily summoned her women who at once flocked around her. He
+confided her to their care, and retired to the apartment prepared for
+him, while ordering that he should be immediately warned so soon as
+Doņa Clara displayed any signs of recovery.</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho de Peņaflor was a charming cavalier, gay, merry, enjoying
+life and repulsing with the egotism of his age and rank, every grief
+and even every annoyance.</p>
+
+<p>Belonging to one of the first families of the Spanish aristocracy,
+destined to be one day immensely rich, and through his name to hold
+the highest offices and make one of those magnificent marriages of
+convenience, which render diplomatists so happy, by leaving their minds
+perfectly free for grand political combinations,&mdash;he strove, as far
+as lay in his power, to check the beating of his heart, and not to
+trouble by any unusual passion, the bright serenity of his existence.
+Captain in the army, while awaiting something better, and to have the
+air of doing something, he had followed his father as aide-de-camp to
+Mexico, when the latter was appointed viceroy of New Spain. But, being
+yet too young to regard life seriously and be ambitious, he had turned
+his attention to gambling and flirtations since his arrival in America,
+which greatly annoyed the Duke, for as the latter had passed the age of
+love, he had no mercy for young men sacrificing to the idol which he
+had himself worshipped for so long.</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho was generally an excellent hearted fellow and good
+companion, but affected, like all the Spaniards of that period, and
+perhaps of the present, by caste prejudices, regarding the Negroes and
+Indians as beasts of burden, created for his use, and disdaining to
+conceal the contempt and disgust he felt for these disinherited races.</p>
+
+<p>In a word, Don Sancho, in accordance with the precept of his family,
+always looked above him and never below; he endured his equals, but
+established an impassable barrier of pride and disdain between himself
+and his inferiors.</p>
+
+<p>Still, perhaps unconsciously,&mdash;for we will not give him the merit of
+it,&mdash;a tender feeling had glided into the cold atmosphere in which
+he was condemned to live, had penetrated to his heart, and at times
+threatened to overthrow all his transcendental theories about egotism.</p>
+
+<p>This feeling was nothing else than the affection he felt for his
+sister,&mdash;an affection which might pass for adoration, for it was so
+truly devoted, respectful and disinterested; to please his sister he
+would have attempted impossibilities; a simple word that fell from
+her lips rendered him pliant and obedient as a slave; a desire she
+manifested became at once an order for him as serious, and perhaps more
+so, than if it had emanated from the King of Spain and the Indies,
+although that magnificent potentate haughtily flattered himself that
+the sun never set on his dominions.</p>
+
+<p>The first words the Count uttered so soon as he found himself alone in
+his apartment, will show his character better than anything we can add.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," he exclaimed as he sank despairingly into an easy chair,
+"instead of passing a few days agreeably here as I expected, I shall
+be obliged to listen to Clara's complaints and console her; the deuce
+take unhappy people, it really seems as if they had made agreement to
+trouble my tranquillity."</p>
+
+<p>At the expiration of about three-quarters of an hour, a black slave
+came to inform him that Doņa Clara had regained her senses, but still
+felt so weak and faint, that she begged him to refrain from seeing her
+that evening.</p>
+
+<p>The young man was in his heart well pleased at the liberty granted him
+by his sister, and which dispensed him from recurring to a conversation
+which possessed no charm for him.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," he said to the slave, "give my respects to my sister, and
+order my supper to be served here; you will at the same time request
+the Major-domo to come to me as I want to speak to him. Begone!"</p>
+
+<p>The slave went out and left him alone.</p>
+
+<p>The young Count then threw himself back in his chair, stretched out
+his legs and plunged, not into any reverie, but into that state of
+somnolency which is neither waking or sleeping, during which the mind
+seems to wander in unknown regions, and which the Spaniards call a
+siesta.</p>
+
+<p>While he was in this state, the slaves laid the table, being careful
+not to disturb him, and covered it with exquisite dishes.</p>
+
+<p>But soon the steam of the dishes placed before him recalled the young
+man to the reality, he drew himself up and seated himself at the table.</p>
+
+<p>"Why has not the Major-domo come," he asked, "have you neglected to
+tell him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon, Excellency, but the Major-domo is absent at this moment," a
+slave respectfully answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Absent&mdash;for what motive?"</p>
+
+<p>"He is paying his usual evening visit to the grounds, but will soon
+return; if your Excellency will be good enough to have a little
+patience, you will soon see him."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, although I do not understand the urgency of this visit.
+There are no wild beasts here, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, Excellency, thank heaven!"</p>
+
+<p>"Then, what is the meaning of these precautions?"</p>
+
+<p>"They are meant to guard the house from the attacks of the ladrones,
+Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"The ladrones again," he exclaimed, bounding from his seat, "why, it
+must be a wager! Everybody seems to have agreed to mystify me, heaven
+forgive me."</p>
+
+<p>At this moment spurs could be heard clattering outside the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Here is the Major-domo, Excellency," one of the Negroes said.</p>
+
+<p>"That is lucky, let him come in."</p>
+
+<p>Birbomono appeared, took off his hat, bowed respectfully to the Count,
+and waited to be addressed.</p>
+
+<p>"Confound it," the young man said to him, "I asked for you an hour or
+more ago."</p>
+
+<p>"I am in despair at it, Excellency, but I was only told of it this very
+instant."</p>
+
+<p>"I know, I know. Have you dined?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not yet, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"Well then, seat yourself there, opposite to me."</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo who knew the Count's haughty character, hesitated; he
+did not at all understand the condescension on his part.</p>
+
+<p>"Sit down, I say," the young man replied; "we are in the country, so it
+is of no consequence; besides, I want to talk with you."</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo then took the place pointed out to him, without further
+pressing.</p>
+
+<p>The meal was short&mdash;for the Count ate without uttering a single word;
+when it was ended, he thrust away his plate, drank a glass of water
+after the Spanish fashion, lit an excellent cigar and gave another to
+the Major-domo.</p>
+
+<p>"Smoke, I permit it," he said.</p>
+
+<p>Birbomono gratefully accepted; but feeling more and more astonished, he
+could not refrain from asking himself mentally, what important motive
+his young master could have for treating him so condescendingly.
+When the table was cleared and the slaves had withdrawn, the two
+men remained alone. The night was magnificent and the atmosphere
+marvellously clear; a multitude of stars floated in æther, a sweet warm
+breeze penetrated through the windows, left expressly open, a profound
+silence lay over the landscape, and from the spot where the two men
+were seated, they perceived the dark mass of forest trees that closed
+the horizon.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," said the Count, as he puffed out a cloud of bluish smoke, "let
+us talk."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, Excellency," the Major-domo replied.</p>
+
+<p>"I have several things to ask you, Birbomono; you know me, I think, and
+that whether I threaten or promise, I always carry out what I say?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am aware of it, Excellency!"</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, that being settled, I will come to the fact without
+further preamble. I have certain very important information to ask of
+you; answering my questions is not betraying your mistress, who is my
+sister, and whom I love before all else; on the contrary, it is perhaps
+rendering her a service indirectly. Besides, if you refused to tell
+me what I want to know, I should learn it from another quarter, and
+you would forfeit any advantage to be derived from your frankness; you
+understand me, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"Well then, what do you intend doing."</p>
+
+<p>"My lord, I am devoted body and soul to your family, hence, I shall
+consider it a duty to answer, as best I can, all the questions you may
+deign to ask me, for I feel convinced that in questioning me, you have
+no other motive but that of being agreeable to my mistress."</p>
+
+<p>"It is impossible to argue more correctly, Birbomono, I have always
+said that you were an intelligent man; and this answer proves to
+me that I was not mistaken. Now, I will begin, but let us proceed
+regularly, so inform me of what occurred between my sister and her
+husband, up to her arrival here; and the motives for her quitting St.
+Domingo."</p>
+
+<p>"You know, Excellency, my lord Count de Bejar of Sousa, the husband of
+your lady sister and my master, is a gentleman not naturally given to
+speaking, but kind and sincerely attached to his wife, whose every wish
+he strives to satisfy, without even venturing a remark. At St. Domingo
+the Countess lived in the most absolute retirement, constantly shut
+up in her remotest apartments, to which only her women, her confessor
+and her physician had access. The Count visited her every morning and
+evening, remained about a quarter of an hour with her, conversing on
+indifferent subjects, and then withdrew."</p>
+
+<p>"Hum! This mode of life of my dear sister appears to me rather
+monotonous; did it last long?"</p>
+
+<p>"For several months, Excellency, and it would doubtless still be going
+on, had it not been for an event which no one but myself knows, and
+which induced her to come here."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah, and what was the event, if you please?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will tell you, Excellency; one day a ship of our nation arrived
+at St. Domingo; during its passage through the islands, it had been
+attacked by the ladrones, from whom it had escaped by a miracle,
+capturing several of them."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! I must stop you here," the Count exclaimed suddenly sitting up;
+"before going further, one word about these ladrones, of whom persons
+are incessantly talking, and no one knows. Do you know what they are?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly I do, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"At last," the Count added joyously, "I have at length found what I
+wanted. As you know, I suppose you will tell me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Most willingly, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"Go on."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! It will not be long, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"All the worse."</p>
+
+<p>"But I believe that it will be interesting."</p>
+
+<p>"All the better then, make haste."</p>
+
+<p>"These ladrones are English and French adventurers, whose courage
+exceeds all belief; lying in ambush among the rocks in the straits
+through which our vessels must pass, for they have vowed a war of
+extermination against our nation, they dart out in wretched canoes half
+full of water, leap on board the ship they have surprised, capture
+it and carry it off. The injury done our marine by these ladrones is
+immense; any ship attacked by them, with but few exceptions, may be
+regarded as lost."</p>
+
+<p>"Confusion! That is very serious; has nothing been done to clear the
+seas from these daring pirates?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Excellency; Don Fernando de Toledo, admiral of the fleet,
+sacked, by the king's orders, the island of St. Christopher, the refuge
+of the ladrones, carried off all he could seize, and did not leave one
+stone on the other in the colony they had founded."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah!" said the Count, rubbing his hands, "That was well done, it
+appears to me."</p>
+
+<p>"No, Excellency, and for this reason. These ladrones, scattered but not
+destroyed, spread over the other islands; some of them, it is true,
+returned to St. Christopher, but the greater part of them had the
+audacity to seek a refuge in Hispaniola itself."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but they have been expelled, I hope."</p>
+
+<p>"It has been tried, at any rate, Excellency, but without success; since
+that period they have managed to maintain themselves in the part of
+the island they invaded, and have resisted all the forces sent against
+them. Instead of being assailed they have become assailants, and pushed
+on to the Spanish frontier, burning, plundering and sacking everything
+they met on their passage; they did this the more easily, because they
+inspire our soldiers with extreme terror, who as soon as they see them
+or even hear them, take to flight without looking behind them. This
+has reached such a pitch, Excellency, that the Count de Bejar, our
+governor, has been compelled to take their fusils from the detachments
+called the Fifties, ordered to protect the frontiers, and arm them with
+lances."</p>
+
+<p>"What! Take away their fusils! And for what motive? Great heaven! this
+seems to me almost too incredible."</p>
+
+<p>"Still, it can be easy understood, Excellency&mdash;the soldiers feel so
+great a terror of the ladrones, that when they found themselves in
+regions frequented by them, and were consequently afraid of meeting
+them, they discharged their fusils, expressly to warn them of their
+presence, and thus invite them to retire, which the ladrones never
+failed to do; and knowing in this way the position of the soldiers,
+they went off to plunder in another direction, certain of not being
+disturbed."</p>
+
+<p>"It is almost incredible. Do you fear their visit here?"</p>
+
+<p>"They have not yet come on this side; still, it is as well to be on
+one's guard."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe so&mdash;that is excessively prudent, and I approve of it; but
+now let us return to the story you were telling me when I interrupted
+you to give me this valuable information; you were saying that a
+Spanish man-o'-war had arrived at Saint Domingo, having on board
+several ladrones as prisoners."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Excellency. Now, you must know that the ladrones are hung so soon
+as they are caught."</p>
+
+<p>"That measure is very wise."</p>
+
+<p>"These were reserved to make an example of on the island itself, and
+terrify their accomplices; they were, therefore, landed, and placed
+in Capilla, while awaiting their execution. It was Fray Arsenio who
+undertook to reconcile the wretches with Heaven if it were possible."</p>
+
+<p>"A rude task; but who is Fray Arsenio?"</p>
+
+<p>"The confessor of my lady Countess."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; proceed."</p>
+
+<p>"Just imagine, Excellency, that these ladrones are very pious men;
+they never attack a vessel without offering up prayers to Heaven,
+and sing the Magnificat and other church hymns while boarding; hence
+Fray Arsenio had no difficulty in making them perform their religious
+duties. The Governor had decided that, in order that the example
+should benefit the rest, these ladrones should be hung on the Spanish
+frontier; they were, therefore, taken out of prison, securely bound,
+and traversed the town in carts, guarded by a numerous escort, and
+passing through the crowds, who overwhelmed them with maledictions
+and cries of anger and threatening. But the ladrones seemed to pay
+no attention to this manifestation of the public hatred; they were
+five in number, young, and apparently very powerful. All at once, at
+the moment when the carts, which were going very slowly, owing to the
+crowd, arrived in front of the Governor's palace, the ladrones rose
+altogether, uttered a loud cry, and, leaping into the street, took
+refuge in the palace, whose guard they disarmed, and closed the gates
+after them; they had succeeded in cutting their bonds, no one knew
+how. There was at first a moment of profound stupor among the crowd on
+seeing such a desperate deed, but ere long the soldiers regained their
+courage, and marched boldly on the palace, where the ladrones received
+them with musket shots. The fight was bravely carried on on both sides,
+but all the disadvantage was on the side of our men, who were exposed
+to the shots of invisible enemies, and renowned marksmen, every shot
+from whom brought down a victim. Some twenty dead, and as many wounded,
+were already lying on the square; the soldiers hesitated to continue
+this deadly contest, when the Governor, warned of what was going on,
+came up at full speed, followed by his officers. Fortunately for him,
+the Count was not at home when the ladrones seized his palace; but the
+Countess was there, and the Count trembled lest she should fall into
+the hands of these villains. He summoned them to surrender; they only
+replied by a discharge, which killed several persons by the Governor's
+side, and slightly wounded himself."</p>
+
+<p>"The daring villains!" the Count muttered&mdash;"I hope they were hung."</p>
+
+<p>"No, Excellency; after holding all the forces of the town in check for
+two hours, they proposed a capitulation, which was accepted."</p>
+
+<p>"What!" the Count exclaimed, "Accepted! Oh! This is too much."</p>
+
+<p>"It is the exact truth, however, Excellency; they threatened, unless
+they were allowed to retire in peace, to blow themselves up with the
+palace, which would have entailed the general ruin of the town, and to
+cut the throats of the prisoners in their power&mdash;that of the Countess
+first of all; the Governor tore out his hair with rage, but they only
+laughed."</p>
+
+<p>"Why they are not men!" the Count exclaimed, stamping his foot
+passionately.</p>
+
+<p>"No, Excellency, I told you, they are demons. The Count's officers
+persuaded him to accept the capitulation; the bandits insisted that the
+streets should be cleared for their passage; they had horses brought
+for them, and two for the Countess and one of her servants, whom they
+retained as hostages till they were in safety; and they went out well
+armed, leading in their midst my poor mistress, trembling with terror,
+and more dead, than alive. The ladrones did not hurry, they went at
+a foot pace, laughing and talking together, turning round, and even
+stopping now and then to stare at the crowd, which followed them at a
+respectful distance. They left the town in this way, but religiously
+kept their promise; two hours later, my lady the Countess, to whom they
+had behaved with great courtesy, returned to Saint Domingo, accompanied
+to the palace by the acclamations and glad shouts of the populace,
+who fancied her lost. The next day the Count ordered me to accompany
+the Countess here, where the physicians recommended her to live for a
+while, in order to rest from the terrible emotions she had doubtless
+experienced while she was in the power of the bandits."</p>
+
+<p>"And since your installation at the hatto I presume nothing
+extraordinary has occurred?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Excellency, something has happened, and that is why I told
+you at the beginning that I alone knew the event which had modified
+my mistress's mode of living. One of the ladrones had a very long
+interview with her before they left her, an interview I saw, too far
+off to hear what was said, it is true, but near enough to judge of the
+interest she felt in it, and the impression it produced on her, for I
+had followed my mistress, resolved not to abandon her, and help her,
+were it necessary, at the risk of my life."</p>
+
+<p>"That is the behaviour of a good servant, Birbomono, and I thank you
+for it."</p>
+
+<p>"I only did my duty, Excellency; so soon as the ladrones left her
+alone I approached my mistress, and escorted her back to the town. A
+few days after our arrival here my mistress dressed herself in man's
+clothes, left the hatto unseen, only followed by myself and Fray
+Arsenio, who had refused to leave her, and led us to a secluded bay
+on the coast, where one of the ladrones was awaiting us. This man had
+another long conversation with my mistress, then, bidding us get into
+a canoe, he took us to a Spanish brigantine, tacking in sight of the
+coast. I afterwards learnt that this brigantine had been freighted by
+Fray Arsenio by my mistress's orders. So soon as we were on board this
+vessel, sail was set, and we put out to sea; the <i>ladrón</i> had returned
+ashore in the canoe."</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense!" the young man violently interjected; "What fables are you
+telling me, Birbomono?"</p>
+
+<p>"Excellency, I am only telling you the truth you asked of me, without
+adding or omitting anything."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I am willing to believe you, incredible though the whole affair
+appears."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I break off here, Excellency, or continue my narration?"</p>
+
+<p>"Go on, in the Fiend's name! Perhaps some light will eventually issue
+from all this chaos."</p>
+
+<p>"Our brigantine began tacking between the islands, at a great risk
+of being snapped up as it passed by the ladrones; but, through some
+incomprehensible miracle, it succeeded in passing unseen, so that in
+eight days it reached an island in the form of a mountain, called
+Nevis, I believe, and only separated by a narrow channel from St.
+Kitts."</p>
+
+<p>"But, from what you told me yourself, St, Christopher is the den of the
+ladrones."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Excellency, and so it is; the brigantine did not anchor, it
+merely backed sails, and lowered a boat. My mistress, the monk, and
+I, got into it, and we were landed on the island; but, as she put her
+little foot on land, the Countess turned to me, and fixing on me a
+glance which nailed me to the boat I was on the point of leaving, she
+said&mdash;'Here is a letter, which you will carry to St. Christopher, there
+you will inquire for a celebrated Chief of the ladrones, whose name
+is Montbarts: you will have him pointed out to you; follow him, and
+place this letter in his own hands. Go, I count on your fidelity.' What
+could I do? Only obey: you will agree with me, Excellency. The sailors
+in the boat, as if warned beforehand, conveyed me to St. Christopher,
+where I landed unseen: I was lucky enough to meet this Montbarts, and
+hand him the letter, and then I slipped away; the boat which had been
+waiting for me took me back to Nevis, and the Seņora thanked me. At
+sunset Montbarts arrived at Nevis; he talked for nearly an hour with
+the monk, while Doņa Clara was concealed in a tent, and then went away:
+a few minutes later, the Countess and Fray Arsenio returned aboard the
+brigantine, which conveyed us back to Hispaniola with the same good
+fortune. The monk remained in the French part of the island, for some
+reason I do not know, while my mistress and I, as soon as we landed,
+returned to the hatto, where we arrived just ten days ago."</p>
+
+<p>"And then?" the Count asked, seeing that the Major-domo was silent.</p>
+
+<p>"That is all, Excellency," he answered; "since then Doņa Clara has
+remained shut up in her apartments, and nothing has happened to trouble
+the monotony of our existence."</p>
+
+<p>The Count rose without replying, walked up and down the room in
+considerable agitation, and then turned to Birbomono.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, Major-domo," he said to him&mdash;"I thank you; keep your mouth
+shut about this, and now you can retire. Remember, that no one in the
+household must suspect the importance of the conversation we have had
+together."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be dumb, Excellency," the Major-domo answered, and retired
+with a respectful bow.</p>
+
+<p>"It is evident," the young man muttered, so soon as he was alone, "that
+there is at the bottom of this affair a frightful secret, of which my
+sister in all probability will condemn me to take my share. I am afraid
+that I have fallen into a trap. Hang it all! Why could not Clara let me
+live at my ease in Saint Domingo?"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>ACROSS COUNTRY.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>On the morrow, Doņa Clara appeared, if not completely recovered from
+her previous emotion, at least in a far more satisfactory state of
+health than her brother had dared to hope after the fainting fit of
+which he had been witness.</p>
+
+<p>No allusion was made, however, by one or the other to the previous
+evening's conversation. Doņa Clara, although very pale, and excessively
+weak, affected gaiety and even merriment; she carried matters so far as
+even to take a short walk in the garden, leaning on her brother's arm.</p>
+
+<p>But the latter was not deceived by this conduct; he understood that
+his sister, vexed at having talked to him too frankly, was trying
+to lead him astray as to her condition, by affecting a gaiety far
+from her heart. Still, he did not let anything be seen, and when the
+great heat of the day had passed, he pretended a desire to visit the
+surrounding country, in order to give his sister a little liberty:
+taking his fusil, he mounted his horse, and rode out, accompanied by
+the Major-domo, who offered to act as his guide during his excursion.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara made but a faint effort to keep him at home; in her heart
+she was pleased to be alone for a few hours.</p>
+
+<p>The young man galloped across country with a feverish impatience.
+He was in a state of excitement, for which he could not account to
+himself; in spite of his egotism, he felt himself interested in his
+sister's misfortune; so much humble resignation involuntarily affected
+him, and he would have been happy to infuse a little joy into this
+heart crushed by grief; on the other hand, the Major-domo's singular
+story incessantly returned to his mind, and aroused his curiosity
+in the highest degree. Still he would not for anything in the world
+have questioned his sister about the obscure parts of this narrative,
+or merely let her know that he was aware of her relations with the
+filibusters of St. Kitts.</p>
+
+<p>The two men had entered the savannah territory, and talking of
+indifferent topics; but as the Count could not get rid of the
+recollection of what the Major-domo had told him, he turned sharply
+toward him at a certain moment.</p>
+
+<p>"By the way," he asked him sharply, "I have not yet seen my sister's
+confessor. How do you call him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fray Arsenio, Excellency; he is a Franciscan monk."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, that's it, Fray Arsenio. Well, why does he persist in remaining
+invisible?"</p>
+
+<p>"For an excellent reason, Excellency; the reason I had the honour of
+explaining to you last evening."</p>
+
+<p>"That is possible&mdash;I do not say you did not; but everything is so
+confused in my mind," he said, with feigned indifference, "that I no
+longer remember what you told me on the subject; you will therefore
+oblige me by repeating it."</p>
+
+<p>"That is easy, Excellency. Fray Arsenio left us at the moment when we
+landed, and has not reappeared at the hatto since."</p>
+
+<p>"That is singular: and does not Doņa Clara appear alarmed and vexed at
+so long an absence?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not at all, Excellency; the seņora never speaks of Fray Arsenio, and
+does not inquire whether he has returned or not."</p>
+
+<p>"It is strange," the young man muttered to himself; "what is the
+meaning of this mysterious absence?"</p>
+
+<p>After this aside, the Count suddenly broke off the conversation and
+resumed the chase. They had been absent from the hatto for some hours,
+and had insensibly gone a very considerable distance; the sun was
+nearing the horizon, and the Count was preparing to turn back, when
+suddenly a great noise of breaking branches was heard at the skirt of
+the forest, from which they were only separated by a few shrubs, and
+several wild oxen dashed on to the savannah, pursued, or, to speak more
+correctly, hunted, by a dozen hounds, which barked furiously while
+snapping at them.</p>
+
+<p>The oxen, seven or eight in number, passed like a tornado two horse
+lengths from the Count, to whom this unexpected apparition caused such
+a surprise, that he remained for a moment motionless, not knowing what
+to do.</p>
+
+<p>The savage animals, still harassed by the hounds, which did not leave
+them, made a sudden wheel, and turning back, seemed trying to enter the
+forest at the spot where they had left it; but they had hardly resumed
+their flight in that direction, when a fusil was discharged, and a
+bull, struck in the head, fell dead on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>At the same instant a man emerged in his turn from the forest, and
+walked up to the animal, which was lying motionless and nearly hidden
+in the tall grass, without appearing to notice the two Spaniards, and
+reloading as he walked along the long fusil he had, in all probability,
+just employed so adroitly.</p>
+
+<p>This hunting episode was accomplished more quickly than it has taken
+us to describe it, so that Don Sancho had not quite recovered from his
+surprise, when the Major-domo bent down to his side and said in a low
+voice, half choked with terror&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Excellency, you wanted to see a <i>ladrón</i>. Well, look carefully at that
+man, he is one."</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho was endowed with undaunted courage. When his first surprise
+had passed, he became again completely master of himself, and regained
+all his coolness.</p>
+
+<p>After securing his seat on the saddle, he advanced slowly toward the
+stranger, while examining him curiously. He was a man still young, of
+middle height, but well and powerfully built; his regular, majestic,
+and rather handsome features displayed boldness and intelligence. Cold,
+heat, rain, and sunshine to which he had doubtless for a long time been
+exposed, had given his face a decided bistre hue; and although he wore
+his full beard, it was cut rather short.</p>
+
+<p>His dress, of almost primitive simplicity, so to speak, was composed of
+two shirts, breeches, and jacket, all of canvas, but so covered with
+spots of blood and grease, that it was impossible to recognise its
+original colour. He wore a leathern belt, from which hung on one side
+a case of crocodile skin, containing four knives and a bayonet; on the
+other, a large calabash, stopped with wax, and a hide bag containing
+bullets. He wore across his shoulders a small coat of fine canvas,
+rolled up and reduced to its smallest compass; and in lieu of shoes,
+boots made of untanned oxhide. His long hair, fastened with a <i>víbora</i>
+skin, escaped from under a fur cap which covered his head, and was
+protected by a peak in front.</p>
+
+<p>His fusil, whose barrel was four and a half feet in length, could be
+easily recognized through the strange form of its stock, as turned out
+by Brachie, of Dieppe, who with Gélin, of Nantes, had the monopoly of
+manufacturing arms for the adventurers. This fusil was of the calibre
+of sixteen to the pound.</p>
+
+<p>The appearance of this man, thus armed and accoutred, had really
+something imposing and formidable about it.</p>
+
+<p>You instinctively felt yourself in face of a powerful nature, of a
+chosen organization, accustomed only to reckon on oneself, and which no
+danger was great enough to astound or even affect.</p>
+
+<p>While continuing to advance toward the bull, he took a side glance at
+the two horsemen; then, without paying any further attention to them,
+he whistled to his dogs, which at once gave up their pursuit of the
+herd, and after drawing a knife from his sheath, he began skinning the
+animal lying at his feet.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment the Count came up to his side.</p>
+
+<p>"Eh," he said to him in a sharp voice, "who are you, and what do you
+here?"</p>
+
+<p>The buccaneer, for he was one, raised his head, looked sarcastically
+at the man who addressed him so peremptorily, and then shrugged his
+shoulders with disdain.</p>
+
+<p>"Who I am?" he replied, mockingly; "You see that I am a buccaneer, and
+what I am doing. I am flaying a bull I have slain. What next?"</p>
+
+<p>"I want to know by what right you hunt on my land?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! This land is yours? I am very glad to hear it. Well, I am hunting
+here because I think proper. If that does not suit you, I feel sorry
+for it, my pretty gentleman."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?" the Count continued, haughtily; "And how do you
+dare to assume such a tone with me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Probably, because it is the one that suits me best," the buccaneer
+replied, drawing himself up quickly; "go your road, my fine sir, and
+take some good advice; if you do not wish your handsome jerkin to be
+filled with broken bones within five minutes, do not trouble yourself
+about me more than I do about you, and leave me to attend to my
+business."</p>
+
+<p>"I will not allow it," the young man answered, violently; "the land you
+are trespassing on so impertinently belongs to my sister, Doņa Clara de
+Bejar; I will not suffer it to be invaded with impunity by vagabonds
+of your description. <i>ĄViva Dios!</i> You will decamp at once, my master,
+or, if not&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"If not?" the buccaneer asked, with eyes flashing fire, while the
+Major-domo, foreseeing a catastrophe, prudently glided behind his
+master.</p>
+
+<p>As for the latter, he stood cool and impassive before the buccaneer,
+resolved to take the offensive vigorously, if he saw him make the
+slightest suspicious gesture. But, contrary to all expectation, the
+adventurer's menacing look became almost suddenly calm, his features
+resumed their usual expression of nonchalance; and it was in an almost
+friendly tone, in spite of its roughness, that he said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Halloh! What name was that you mentioned, if you please?"</p>
+
+<p>"That of the owner of this savannah."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose so," the adventurer replied, laughing; "but may I ask you to
+repeat the name?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is of no consequence, my master," the young man said
+disdainfully, for he fancied that his adversary was backing out of the
+quarrel; "the name I uttered is that of Doņa Clara de Bejar of Sousa."</p>
+
+<p>"Et cetera," the buccaneer said, with a laugh, "these devils of
+gavachos have names for every day in the year. Come, don't be angry,
+my young cock," he added, remarking the flush which the expression he
+had employed spread over the Count's face; "we are, perhaps, nearer an
+understanding than you imagine&mdash;what would you gain by a fight with me?
+Nothing; and you might, on the contrary, lose a great deal."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not understand your words," the young man answered drily, "but I
+hope you are about to explain them."</p>
+
+<p>"It will not take long, as you shall see," the other said tauntingly,
+and, turning to the forest, he raised his hands to his mouth in the
+shape of a speaking trumpet.</p>
+
+<p>"Eh! L'Olonnais!" he shouted.</p>
+
+<p>"Hola!" a man immediately answered, whom the denseness of the forest in
+which he was hidden rendered invisible.</p>
+
+<p>"Come here, my son," the buccaneer continued, "I believe we have found
+your little matter."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah!" L'Olonnais, still invisible, replied, "I must have a look at
+it."</p>
+
+<p>The young Count did not know what to think of this new incident which
+seemed about to change the state of affairs; he feared a coarse jest
+on the part of these half-savage men. He hesitated between giving way
+to the passion that was boiling within him, or patiently awaiting the
+result of the buccaneer's summons; but a secret foreboding urged him to
+restrain himself and act prudently with these men, who did not appear
+animated by an evil design against him, and whose manners, though quick
+and rough, were still friendly.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment L'Olonnais appeared; he wore the same dress as the
+buccaneer: he advanced hurriedly toward the latter, and without
+troubling himself about the two Spaniards, asked him what he wanted,
+while throwing on the ground a wild bull's hide, which he was carrying
+on his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you not tell me something about a letter which Bowline sent you
+this morning by the hands of Omopoua?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is true, Lepoletais. I spoke to you about it," he said, "and it was
+settled between us that as you know the country, you were to lead me to
+the person to whom I have to deliver this accursed slip of paper."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then, my son, if you like, your commission is performed,"
+Lepoletais continued, as he pointed to Don Sancho, "he is the brother,
+or at least calls himself so, of the person in question."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff," L'Olonnais replied, fixing alight glance on the young man,
+"that gay springald?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he says so; for as you know, the Spaniards are such liars, that
+it is not possible even to trust to their word."</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho blushed with indignation.</p>
+
+<p>"Who gave you the right to doubt mine?" he exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing has done so up to the present, hence I am not addressing
+myself to you, but speaking generally."</p>
+
+<p>"So," L'Olonnais asked him, "you are the brother of Doņa Clara de
+Bejar, the mistress of the hatto del Rincón?"</p>
+
+<p>"Once again, yes, I am her brother."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! And how will you prove it to me?"</p>
+
+<p>The young man shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"What do I care whether you believe me or not?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"That is possible, but it is of great consequence to me to be certain
+of the fact; I am entrusted with a letter for that lady, and wish to
+perform my commission properly."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case hand me the letter, and I will deliver it myself."</p>
+
+<p>"You found that out all by yourself," the engagé said mockingly, "a
+likely notion that I should give you the note on your demand," and he
+burst into a hearty laugh, in which Lepoletais joined.</p>
+
+<p>"These Spaniards doubt nothing," the buccaneer said.</p>
+
+<p>"In that case go to the deuce, you and your letter," the young man
+exclaimed passionately, "it does not make any difference to me if you
+keep it."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come, don't be savage, hang it all," L'Olonnais continued in a
+conciliatory tone; "there is possibly a means of arranging matters to
+the general satisfaction; I am not so black as I look, and I have good
+intentions, but I do not wish to be duped, that is all."</p>
+
+<p>The young man, in spite of the visible repugnance with which the
+adventurers inspired him did not dare to break suddenly with them; the
+letter might be very important, and his sister, doubtless would not
+pardon him if he acted petulantly in this matter.</p>
+
+<p>"Come," he said, "speak, but make haste; it is late&mdash;I am far from the
+hatto, where I wish to return before sunset, so as not to alarm my
+sister unnecessarily."</p>
+
+<p>"That is the conduct of a good brother," the engagé answered with an
+ironical smile; "this is what I propose to you: tell the little lady in
+question that Montbart's engagé has orders to deliver a letter to her,
+and that if she wishes to have it, she need only come and fetch it."</p>
+
+<p>"What! Fetch it, where?"</p>
+
+<p>"Here; zounds! Lepoletais and I will set up a boucan at this spot; we
+will wait for the lady all tomorrow here: it seems to me that what I
+propose is simple and easy."</p>
+
+<p>"And do you believe," he answered ironically, "that my sister will
+consent to accept such an appointment made by a wretched adventurer?
+why, you must be mad!"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not believe anything, I make you a proposal, which you are free
+to accept or refuse, that is all: as for the letter, she shall only
+have it by coming to fetch it herself."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not accompany me to the hatto, that would be more simple, I fancy?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is possible, and that was my intention at first, but I have changed
+my mind; so settle what you will do."</p>
+
+<p>"My sister respects herself too much to take such a step, I am certain
+beforehand that she will indignantly refuse."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you may be mistaken, my friend," the engagé said, with a knowing
+smile, "who ever knows what women think!"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, to cut short an interview which has already lasted too long, I
+will inform her of what you have said to me; still, I do not conceal
+from you that I shall make every effort to prevent her coming."</p>
+
+<p>"You can do as you please, it does not concern me; but be assured that
+if it be her wish to come, as I believe, your arguments will be of no
+use."</p>
+
+<p>"We shall see."</p>
+
+<p>"Mind not to forget to tell her that the letter is from Montbarts."</p>
+
+<p>During this conversation, which possessed no interest for him,
+Lepoletais, with the characteristic coolness and carelessness of
+buccaneers, was engaged in cutting down branches, and planting stakes
+to make the <i>ajoupa</i> under which they would camp for the night.</p>
+
+<p>"You see," the engagé added, "that my comrade has already set to work;
+so good-bye till tomorrow, as I have no time for further talk, I must
+help to prepare the boucan."</p>
+
+<p>"Do as you please, but I am persuaded that you are wrong in reckoning
+on the success of the commission I have undertaken."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you will see; at any rate mention it to the Seņora. Ah! By the
+way, one word more, mind, no treachery."</p>
+
+<p>The young man did not condescend a reply: he shrugged his shoulders
+disdainfully, leaped on his horse, and galloped off in the direction of
+the hatto, closely followed by the Major-domo.</p>
+
+<p>On getting some distance away, he looked back: the ajoupa was already
+finished, and, as L'Olonnais had said, the two buccaneers were busily
+engaged in establishing their boucan, without paying any more attention
+to the Spaniards, who were doubtless prowling about the neighbourhood,
+than if they had been five hundred leagues from any habitation.</p>
+
+<p>Then he continued to advance thoughtfully in the direction of the hatto.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Excellency," the Major-domo said presently, "you have seen the
+ladrones, what do you think of them now?"</p>
+
+<p>"They are rough men," he said, shaking his head sadly, "possessing
+brutal and indomitable natures, but relatively frank and honest, at
+least from their point of view."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes, you are right, Excellency; and thus they gain more ground
+every day, and if they were left alone, I am afraid that the whole
+island would soon belong to them."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, we have not reached that point yet," he said with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Excellency, for asking you the question, but do you intend
+to inform the Seņora of this meeting?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should like not to do so; unfortunately, after what you had told me
+of the things that have taken place between my sister and these men,
+my silence might have very serious consequences for her. Hence it is
+better, I believe, to tell her frankly all about it, and she will be a
+better judge than I of the line of conduct she should pursue."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you are right, Excellency. The Seņora has perhaps a great
+interest in knowing the contents of that letter."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, let us trust in Heaven!"</p>
+
+<p>It was an hour past nightfall when they reached the hatto.</p>
+
+<p>They noticed with surprise an unusual movement round the house. Several
+fires lighted on the plain illumined the darkness. On approaching,
+the Count perceived that these fires were lit by soldiers, who had
+established their bivouac there.</p>
+
+<p>A confidential servant was watching for the Count's arrival. So soon as
+he saw him, he handed him several letters that had arrived for him, and
+begged him to go at once to the Seņora, who was impatiently expecting
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"What is there new here?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Two fifties arrived at sunset, Excellency," the servant answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" he remarked, with a slight frown. "Very good. Inform my sister
+that I shall be with her in an instant."</p>
+
+<p>The domestic bowed and retired. The young gentleman dismounted, and
+went to the apartments of Doņa Clara, considerably puzzled by the
+unforeseen arrival of these troops at a spot which apparently enjoyed
+great tranquillity, and where their presence was unnecessary.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>COMPLICATIONS.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>We must now return to one of our characters, who up to the present has
+played but a secondary part in this story; but, as frequently happens,
+is now called on by the exigencies of our narrative to take his place
+in the foreground.</p>
+
+<p>We refer to Count Don Stenio de Bejar y Sousa, grandee of Spain of the
+first class, <i>caballero cubierto</i>, governor for His Majesty Philip II.
+of Spain and the Indies, of the island of Hispaniola, and husband of
+Doņa Clara de Peņaflor.</p>
+
+<p>Count Don Stenio de Bejar was a true Spaniard of the age of Charles V.,
+dry, stiff, full of pride and self-sufficiency, always with his hand
+on his hip, and his head thrown back when he deigned to speak, which,
+happened to him as rarely as possible, not through any want of sense,
+as he was far from being a fool; but through indolence and contempt of
+other men, whom he never looked at without half closing his eyes, and
+raising the corners of his lips disdainfully.</p>
+
+<p>Tall, well built, possessed of noble manners, and a very handsome face,
+the Count, apart from his determined silence, was one of the most
+accomplished cavaliers of the Spanish court, which, however, at that
+period, possessed a great number of them.</p>
+
+<p>His marriage with Doņa Clara had been at the outset an affair of
+convenience and ambition, but gradually, through admiring the charming
+face of the woman he had married, seeing her gentle eyes fixed on
+him, and hearing her melodious voice resound in his ear, he had grown
+to love her&mdash;love her madly. Like all men accustomed to shut up and
+concentrate in their hearts the feelings that possessed them, the
+passion he experienced for Doņa Clara had acquired proportions the more
+formidable, because the unhappy man had the desperate conviction that
+it would never be shared by the woman who was the object of it. All Don
+Stenio's advances had been so peremptorily rejected by his wife, that
+he at last made up his mind to abstain from them.</p>
+
+<p>But, like all disappointed lovers, this gentleman, who was at the same
+time the husband&mdash;a very aggravating fact in the species, was naturally
+too infatuated with his own merit, to attribute his defeat to himself,
+and hence had looked around to discover the fortunate rival who had
+robbed him of his wife's heart.</p>
+
+<p>Naturally the Count had not succeeded in finding this fancied rival,
+who only existed in his own imagination, and this had grown into a
+jealousy, the more ferocious because, as it did not know whom to settle
+on, it attacked everybody.</p>
+
+<p>The Count was jealous, then, not like a Spaniard, for the Spaniards
+generally, whatever may be said to the contrary, are not affected by
+that stupid malady, but like an Italian; and this jealousy made him
+suffer the more, because, like his love, he was unable to show it;
+through fear of ridicule, he was compelled to lock it up carefully in
+his heart.</p>
+
+<p>When, owing to his protection&mdash;as had been arranged on his marriage
+with Doņa Clara, of whose previous union with the Count de Barmont
+he was ignorant&mdash;his father-in-law, the Duc de Peņaflor, was
+appointed viceroy of New Spain, and himself obtained the government
+of Hispaniola, the Count experienced a feeling of indescribable joy,
+and an immense comfort inundated his mind. He was persuaded that in
+America, his wife, separated from her friends and relatives, forced,
+to live alone, and consequently to undergo his influence, would be
+driven through weariness and want of something better to do, to share
+his love, or at least accept it: and then again, on the islands there
+was no rivalry to fear among a half savage population entirely absorbed
+by a passion far more powerful than love&mdash;a passion for money.</p>
+
+<p>Alas! This time too, he was deceived. Doņa Clara, it is true, gave him
+no more pretext for jealousy than she had done in Spain, but he did not
+any the more succeed in winning her affections. From the first day of
+her arrival at Saint Domingo, she manifested the desire to live alone
+and in retirement, engaged in religious practices; and the Count was
+constrained, in spite of his fury, to bow before a resolution which he
+recognised as irrevocable.</p>
+
+<p>He resigned himself; his jealousy however was not extinct, it was
+smouldering beneath the ashes, and a spark would suffice to make it
+burst into a more terrible flame than before.</p>
+
+<p>Still, in spite of this slight annoyance, the life the Count led at
+Saint Domingo was most agreeable; in the first place he ruled there in
+his quality of governor, saw everybody bend beneath his will, always
+excepting his wife, the only one perhaps he would have cared to reduce.
+He had his flatterers, and played the master and suzerain over all
+who surrounded him; moreover, a thing not to be at all despised, his
+position as governor secured certain imposts that rapidly augmented his
+fortune, which various youthful follies had considerably reduced, and
+he now worked hard, not only to repair the breaches, but to render them
+as if they had never been.</p>
+
+<p>By degrees, however, the Count succeeded in lulling, if not subduing,
+his love; he employed one passion to uproot the other; the care
+of augmenting his fortune made him endure patiently the calculated
+indifference of the Countess. He had almost come himself to believe
+that he only felt for her a frank and sincere friendship; the more
+so because Doņa Clara for her part, was charming in everything that
+did not touch on her husband's passion for her; she took an interest,
+or at least pretended to do so, in the commercial speculations which
+the Count did not hesitate to engage in under suppositious names, and
+at times she would give him, with that clear judgment so eminently
+possessed by women whose heart is free, excellent advice on very
+difficult points, by which the Count profited, and naturally took all
+the glory.</p>
+
+<p>Things were in this state when the episode with the filibusters
+occurred, which the Major-domo described to Don Sancho de Peņaflor.</p>
+
+<p>This mad struggle of five men against an entire town, a struggle from
+which they emerged victorious, had caused the Count a rage all the
+greater, because the filibusters, on leaving the town, had taken the
+Countess off with them as a hostage. He had then understood how greatly
+he erred, in supposing that his love and jealousy were extinguished.
+During the two hours that the Countess remained absent, the Count
+suffered a horrible torture, the more horrible because the rage he felt
+was impotent, and vengeance impossible, at least for the present.</p>
+
+<p>Hence, from this moment, the Count vowed an implacable hatred against
+the adventurers, and swore to carry on a merciless war against them.</p>
+
+<p>The return of the Countess safe and sound, and treated with the
+greatest respect by the adventurers, during the time she remained in
+their power, calmed the Count's wrath from a marital point of view,
+but the insult he had received in his quality as governor, was too
+grave for him to renounce his vengeance.</p>
+
+<p>From this moment the most formal orders were sent to the leaders of
+corps to redouble their surveillance, and chase the adventurers,
+wherever they met them; fresh Fifties, formed of resolute men, were
+organized, and the few adventurers they contrived to catch, were
+mercilessly hung. Tranquillity was re-established in the colonies, the
+confidence of the colonists, momentarily disturbed, reappeared, and
+everything apparently returned to its accustomed state.</p>
+
+<p>The Countess had expressed a desire to restore her health by a stay
+of several weeks at the hatto del Rincón, and the Count, to whom her
+physician had expressed this wish, found it only very natural; he had
+seen his wife go away with an easy mind, for he was convinced that at
+the spot whither she was going, she would have no danger to fear, and
+felt persuaded in his heart that this condescension on his part, would
+be appreciated by the Countess, and that she would feel thankful to him
+for it.</p>
+
+<p>She had left therefore, only accompanied by a few servants and
+confidential slaves, delighted to escape for some time from the
+restraint she was obliged to impose on herself at Saint Domingo,
+and fostering the bold scheme which we have seen her carry out so
+successfully.</p>
+
+<p>It was about an hour after the departure of Don Sancho de Peņaflor,
+to go and join his sister at the hatto; the Count was finishing his
+breakfast, and preparing to retire to the inner boudoir to enjoy his
+siesta, when an usher came into the dining room, and after apologizing
+for disturbing His Excellency at this moment, informed him that a man
+who refused to give his name, but declared that he was well known to
+the governor, insisted on being introduced into his presence, as he had
+most important communications to make to him.</p>
+
+<p>The moment was badly chosen to ask for an audience, as the Count felt
+inclined to sleep; he answered the usher that, however important the
+stranger's communications might be, he did not believe them of such
+importance that he should sacrifice his siesta for them; he therefore
+Sent a message to the effect that the governor would not be at liberty
+till four in the afternoon, and if the stranger liked to return then he
+would be received.</p>
+
+<p>The Count dismissed the usher, and rose, muttering to himself as he
+walked towards the boudoir,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Dios me salve</i>, if I were to believe all these scamps, I should not
+have a moment's rest."</p>
+
+<p>Whereupon he stretched himself in a large hammock, hung right across
+the room, closed his eyes and fell asleep.</p>
+
+<p>The Count's siesta lasted three hours, and this delay was the cause of
+serious complications.</p>
+
+<p>On waking, Don Stenio quite forgot all about the stranger; it so often
+happened that he was disturbed for nothing by people who declared they
+had urgent matters to discuss with him, that he did not attach the
+slightest importance to their requests for an audience, and the usher's
+words had completely slipped his memory.</p>
+
+<p>At the time when he entered the room where he usually granted his
+audiences, and which at this moment was quite empty, the usher
+presented himself again.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want?" he asked him.</p>
+
+<p>"Excellency," the usher replied with a respectful bow, "the man has
+returned."</p>
+
+<p>"What man?"</p>
+
+<p>"The man who came this morning."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh yes, well, what does he want?" the Count continued, who did not
+know what all this was about.</p>
+
+<p>"He desires, my lord, that you will do him the honour of receiving him,
+as he states that he has matters of the utmost gravity to tell you."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, very good, I remember now; it is the same man you announced this
+morning."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Excellency, the same."</p>
+
+<p>"And what is his name?"</p>
+
+<p>"He will only tell it to your Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"Hum! I do not like such precautions, for they never forbode anything
+good; listen, José! When he arrives, tell him I never receive people
+who insist on keeping their incognito."</p>
+
+<p>"But he is here, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! well then, it will be all the more easy, tell him so at once."</p>
+
+<p>And he turned his back. The usher bowed and left the room, but returned
+almost immediately.</p>
+
+<p>"Well! Have you sent him away?" the Count asked.</p>
+
+<p>"No, my lord, he gave me this card requesting me to hand it your
+Excellency. He declares that, in default of his name, it will be
+sufficient to secure his admission to your presence."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! Oh!" said the Count, "That is curious, let me see this famous
+talisman."</p>
+
+<p>He took the card from the usher's hand and looked at it absently; but
+all at once he started, frowned and said to the usher,</p>
+
+<p>"Show the man into the yellow room, let him wait for me there, I will
+be with him in a moment. The deuce," he muttered to himself when he was
+alone, "it is a long time since this scoundrel let me hear anything of
+him, I fancied him hung or drowned; he is a clever scamp, can he really
+have any important information to give me? We shall see."</p>
+
+<p>Then, leaving the room in which he was, he hastened to the yellow
+saloon where the man with the card already was.</p>
+
+<p>On seeing the governor, the latter hastily rose, and made him a
+respectful bow.</p>
+
+<p>The Count turned to the valet who had followed him to open the doors.</p>
+
+<p>"I am not at home to anybody," he said; "you can go."</p>
+
+<p>The valet left the room, and shut the door after him.</p>
+
+<p>"Now for us two," the Count said, as he sank into his chair, and
+pointed to another.</p>
+
+<p>"I am awaiting your lordship's orders," the stranger said respectfully.</p>
+
+<p>Don Stenio remained for a moment silent, and scratching his forehead.</p>
+
+<p>"You have been away for a very long time," he said at last, "well, what
+has become of you during the last two months?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have been executing your Excellency's orders," the man answered.</p>
+
+<p>"My orders? I do not remember having given you any."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, my lord, if I venture to remind you of certain facts, which
+appear to have escaped your memory."</p>
+
+<p>"Do so, my good fellow, I shall be delighted at it; still, I would
+remark that my time is valuable, and that others besides yourself are
+awaiting an audience."</p>
+
+<p>"I will be brief, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"That is what I wish. Go on,"</p>
+
+<p>"A few days after the affair of the ladrones, does not your Excellency
+remember saying to me in a moment of anger or impatience, that you
+would give ten thousand piastres to obtain positive information about
+the adventurers, their strength, plans, &amp;c.?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I remember saying that; what then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Excellency, I was present when you made that promise. Your
+Excellency had deigned to employ me several times before; as you looked
+at me while speaking, I supposed that you were addressing me, and I
+have acted accordingly."</p>
+
+<p>"That is to say?"</p>
+
+<p>"In my devotion to your Excellency, in spite of the numberless dangers
+I should have to incur, I resolved to go and seek the information you
+appeared to desire so ardently, and&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"And you went to seek it," the Count exclaimed with an eager start,
+though hitherto he had paid but very slight attention to the stranger's
+remarks.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, yes, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah," he said, stroking his chin; "and have you learnt anything?"</p>
+
+<p>"An infinity of things, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, let me hear some of them. But mind," he added, checking himself,
+"no hearsays or suppositions, for I have my ears stuffed with them."</p>
+
+<p>"The information I shall have the honour of giving your Excellency, is
+derived from a good source, since I went to seek it in the very den of
+the ladrones."</p>
+
+<p>The Count gazed with admiration at this man who had not feared to
+expose himself to so great a danger.</p>
+
+<p>"If such is the case, pray continue, seņor."</p>
+
+<p>"My lord," the spy resumed, for we may henceforth give him that name;
+"I come from St. Christopher."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Is not that the Island where the bandits take shelter?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lord, and more than that, I returned in one of their vessels."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, oh," said the governor, "pray tell me all about it, my dear Don
+Antonio: that is your name, I believe?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lord; Don Antonio de la Ronda."</p>
+
+<p>"You see," the Count added with a smile; "that I have a good memory
+sometimes," and he laid a stress on these words, which made the spy's
+heart bound with joy.</p>
+
+<p>The latter told him in what way he had entered the island, how he had
+been discovered and made prisoner by Montbarts, who put him on board
+one of his vessels; how a great expedition had been decided on by the
+adventurers against the island of Saint Domingo, in the first place,
+and then against Tortuga, which the ladrones had a plan for surprising,
+and on which they intend to establish themselves; and in what way, on
+reaching Port Margot, he had succeeded in escaping, and had hastened to
+bear the news to his Excellency the governor.</p>
+
+<p>The Count listened with the most serious attention to Don Antonio's
+narrative, and in proportion as it progressed, the governor's brow
+became more anxious; in fact, the spy had not deceived him. The news
+was of the utmost gravity.</p>
+
+<p>"Hum!" he answered; "And is it long since the ladrones arrived at Port
+Margot?"</p>
+
+<p>"Eight days, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>ĄSangre de Cristo!</i> so long as that, and I had not been informed of
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"In spite of the utmost diligence, as I was constrained to take the
+greatest precaution lest I should fall again into the hands of the
+ladrones, who doubtless started in pursuit of me. I only arrived this
+morning, and came straight to the palace."</p>
+
+<p>The Count bit his lips, several hours had been lost through his fault;
+still he did not notice the indirect reproach addressed to him by the
+spy, for he comprehended all its justice.</p>
+
+<p>"You have fairly earned the ten thousand piastres promised, Don
+Antonio," he said.</p>
+
+<p>The spy gave a start of pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, that is not all," he answered, with a meaning smile.</p>
+
+<p>"What else is there?" the Count remarked; "I believed that you had
+nothing further to tell me."</p>
+
+<p>"That depends, Excellency. I have made my official report to the
+Governor-General of Hispaniola, it is true&mdash;a very detailed report
+indeed&mdash;in which I have forgotten nothing that might help him to defend
+the island entrusted to his care."</p>
+
+<p>"Well?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, my lord, I have now to give the Count de Bejar, of course, if he
+desire it, certain information which I believe will interest him."</p>
+
+<p>The Count fixed on the man an investigating glance, as if he wished to
+read his very soul.</p>
+
+<p>"The Count de Bejar?" he said with studied coldness; "What can you have
+to say that interests him privately, as a simple gentleman? I have not,
+as far as I am aware, anything to settle with the ladrones."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps so, my lord; however, I will only speak, if your Excellency
+orders me, and before doing so, will beg you to forgive anything that
+may seem offensive to your honour in what I may say to you."</p>
+
+<p>The Count turned pale and frowned portentously.</p>
+
+<p>"Take care," he said to him in a threatening voice, "take care lest
+you go beyond your object, and in trying to prove too much, fall into
+the contrary excess. The honour of my name is not to be played with,
+and I will never allow the slightest stain to be imprinted on it."</p>
+
+<p>"I have not the slightest intention to insult your Excellency; my zeal
+on your behalf has alone urged me to speak as I have done."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good&mdash;I am willing to believe it; still, as the honour of my name
+regards myself alone, I do not allow any person the right to assail it,
+not even in a good intention."</p>
+
+<p>"I ask your Excellency's pardon, but I have doubtless explained myself
+badly. What I have to tell you relates to a plot, formed, doubtless,
+without her knowledge, against the Countess."</p>
+
+<p>"A plot formed against the Countess!" Don Stenio exclaimed, violently;
+"What do you mean, seņor? Explain at once&mdash;I insist on it."</p>
+
+<p>"My lord, since it is your wish, I will speak. Is not her ladyship, the
+Countess, at this moment in the vicinity of the small town of San Juan?"</p>
+
+<p>"She is; but how do you know it, since, as you told me you have only
+been back to Saint Domingo for a few hours?"</p>
+
+<p>"I presumed so, because on board the vessel in which I returned to
+Hispaniola, I heard something about an interview which the chief of
+the adventurers was to have in a few days in the neighbourhood of the
+Artibonite."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" the Count exclaimed; "You lie, scoundrel!"</p>
+
+<p>"For what object, my lord?" the spy answered, coolly.</p>
+
+<p>"How do I know? through hatred, envy, perhaps."</p>
+
+<p>"I," he said, with a shrug of his shoulders. "Nonsense, my lord. Men
+like me&mdash;spies, if things must be called by their proper name&mdash;are only
+led away by one passion&mdash;that of money."</p>
+
+<p>"But what you tell me is impossible," the Count observed, with
+agitation.</p>
+
+<p>"What prevents you from assuring yourself that I speak the truth, my
+lord?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will do so, <i>ĄViva Dios!</i>" he exclaimed, stamping his foot furiously.</p>
+
+<p>Then he walked up to the spy, who was standing calm and motionless in
+the centre of the room, and fixed on him a glance full of rage, but
+impossible to describe.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen, villain!" he said in a hollow voice, half choked with passion;
+"If you have lied, you shall die!"</p>
+
+<p>"Agreed, my lord," the spy replied, coldly; "but if I have spoken the
+truth?"</p>
+
+<p>"If you have spoken the truth," he exclaimed, but suddenly broke off,
+"but no, it is impossible, I repeat!" and seeing a fugitive smile
+playing round the lips of his companion, he added, "well, be it so; if
+you have spoken the truth, you shall fix your own reward, and whatever
+it may be, on my word as a gentleman, you shall have it."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, my lord," he replied, with a bow; "I hold you to your word."</p>
+
+<p>The Count walked several times up and down the saloon, suffering from
+intense agitation, appearing to have completely forgotten the presence
+of the spy, muttering unconnected words, breaking out into passionate
+gestures, and in all probability revolving in his head sinister
+projects of vengeance. At length he stopped and addressed the spy again.</p>
+
+<p>"Withdraw," he said to him, "but do not leave the palace; or, stay,
+wait a moment."</p>
+
+<p>Seizing a bell on the table, he rang it violently.</p>
+
+<p>A valet appeared.</p>
+
+<p>"A corporal and four men," he said.</p>
+
+<p>The spy shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"Why all these precautions, my lord?" he asked; "is it not contrary to
+my interest to go away?"</p>
+
+<p>The Count examined him for a moment attentively, and then made the
+valet a sign to withdraw.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," he then said, "I trust to you, Don Antonio de la Ronda.
+Await my orders, I shall soon have need of you."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not go away far, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>And after bowing respectfully, he took his leave, and withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>The Count, when left alone, gave way for some minutes to all the
+violence of a rage so long restrained, but he gradually regained his
+coolness and the power of reflection.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I will avenge myself!" he exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>Then he gave, with feverish activity, the necessary orders that
+numerous bodies of troops should be sent off to different points, so as
+to completely invest the hatto del Rincón, to which spot two Fifties
+were sent, commanded by experienced and resolute officers.</p>
+
+<p>These measures taken, the Count, wrapped in a large cloak, mounted his
+horse an hour after sunset, and followed by Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+who had not the slightest desire to leave him, and a few confidential
+officers, he left his palace incognito, rode through the town
+unrecognized, and reached the open country.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, caballeros," he said in a hollow voice, "gallop your hardest,
+and do not be afraid of foundering your horses. Relays are prepared at
+regular distances along the road."</p>
+
+<p>He dug his spurs into the flanks of his horse, which snorted with pain,
+and the party set out with the headlong speed of a whirlwind.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, Santiago! Santiago;" the Count exclaimed at times while urging on
+his steed, whose efforts were superhuman, "shall I arrive in time?"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV">CHAPTER XXIV.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>PORT MARGOT.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>We will now return to the filibustering flotilla, which we left sailing
+freely toward the great North Key, a rendezvous admirably selected,
+owing to its proximity to Saint Domingo, and exactly facing the island
+of the Tortoise.</p>
+
+<p>According to their habit, whenever they undertook an expedition, the
+adventurers had only troubled themselves with laying in a stock of
+ammunition, and only took two days' provisions with them, as they
+intended to make descents on the islands which they knew they must
+pass, and pillage the Spanish colonists settled on them. This was
+exactly what happened. The filibusters left behind them a long train of
+fire and blood, murdering, without pity, the defenceless Spaniards, who
+were terrified at the sight of them, seizing on their cattle and firing
+their houses after they had plundered them.</p>
+
+<p>The first vessel to anchor off the Great Key was the lugger with
+Montbarts on board, and commanded by Michael le Basque; on the next day
+the two brigantines arrived, a few hours after one another.</p>
+
+<p>They came to anchor on the right and left of the admiral, about two
+cables' length from the coast.</p>
+
+<p>At this period the Great Key was inhabited by red Caribs, expelled from
+St. Domingo by the cruelty of the Spaniards, and who had taken refuge
+on this island, where they lived rather comfortably, owing to the
+fertility of the soil, and the alliance they had contracted with the
+filibusters.</p>
+
+<p>The three vessels had scarce cast anchor, ere they were surrounded by a
+great number of canoes, manned by Caribs, who brought them refreshments
+of every description.</p>
+
+<p>The same evening the admiral went ashore with the greater part of his
+crew: the other captains imitated him, and only left behind the men
+absolutely necessary to guard the ships.</p>
+
+<p>At a signal from the admiral, the crews arranged themselves in a
+semicircle round him; the captains standing in front of the first line.</p>
+
+<p>Behind them were the Caribs, alarmed in their hearts at this formidable
+landing, whose motive they could not divine, anxiously awaiting what
+was going to happen, and not at all comprehending this display of
+strength.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts, holding in one hand the staff of a white flag, whose folds
+floated on the breeze above his head, and his long sword in the other,
+looked round at the men gathered before him.</p>
+
+<p>Most of them were scarce clad, but all were well armed. They had
+weather-beaten complexions, vigorous limbs, huge muscles, energetic
+features, and a defiant glance. The adventurers thus collected
+around this man, who stood haughtily in front of them, with his head
+thrown back, quivering lips, and a flashing eye, offered a striking
+spectacle; their savage grandeur and rough gestures were not deficient
+in a certain majesty, which was rendered still more imposing by the
+primitive landscape that formed the background of the picture, and the
+picturesque group of Indians, whose anxious faces and characteristic
+poses added to the effect of the scene.</p>
+
+<p>For some time the rustling of the crowd was audible, like the sound of
+the sea breaking on a beach, but gradually the noise died away, and a
+profound silence fell on all.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts then advanced a step, and in a firm and sonorous voice, whose
+manly accents soon captivated all these men who listened eagerly to his
+words, he revealed to them the purpose of the expedition, which up to
+this time was unknown to them.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers of the coast," he said; "messmates and friends, the moment
+has arrived to reveal to you what I await from your courage and your
+devotion to the common cause. You are not mercenaries, who, for scanty
+pay, let themselves be killed like brutes, ignorant for what or from
+whom they are fighting. No! You are picked men, who wish to know to
+what object you are advancing, and what profit you will derive from
+your efforts. Several of our most renowned comrades and myself have
+resolved to attack in the heart of their richest possessions these
+cowardly Spaniards, who believed they dishonoured us by branding us
+with the name of <i>ladrones</i>, and whom the merest sight of our smallest
+canoes puts to flight like a flock of startled seagulls. But in order
+that our vengeance may be certain, and that we succeed in seizing the
+wealth of our enemies, we must possess a point sufficiently near the
+centre of our operations, to enable us to rush upon them unawares, and
+so strong that the whole power of Castile may be broken against it in
+impotent efforts. St. Christopher is too remote. Moreover, the descent
+of Admiral Don Fernando of Toledo is a proof to us, that however brave
+we may be, we shall never succeed in fortifying ourselves strongly
+enough there to defy the rage of our enemies. It was, therefore,
+absolutely necessary to find a spot more favourable to our projects,
+a point which could easily be rendered impregnable. Our friends, and
+myself set to work. For a long time we sought with the perseverance
+of men resolved to succeed. Heaven has at length deigned to bless our
+efforts. We have found this refuge under the most fortunate conditions."</p>
+
+<p>Here Montbarts made a pause for several seconds.</p>
+
+<p>An electric quiver ran along the ranks of the adventurers; their eyes
+flashed fire, they grasped their fusils in their powerful hands, as if
+they were impatient to commence the struggle promised them.</p>
+
+<p>A smile of satisfaction illumined for a moment the adventurer's pale
+face. Then, waving his hand to command attention, he resumed;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Brethren, before us is Saint Domingo;" and he stretched out his
+hand towards the sea. "Saint Domingo, the loveliest and wealthiest
+of all the isles possessed by Spain. On this island several of our
+brothers, who escaped the massacre of St. Christopher, have established
+themselves, and are contending energetically against the Spaniards, to
+hold the ground wrested from them. Unfortunately too few in number, in
+spite of their bravery, to resist for any length of time the enemy's
+troops, they would soon be forced to quit the island, if we did not
+go to their assistance. They have summoned us. We have responded to
+this appeal of our brothers, whom honour ordered us to succour in
+the hour of danger. While doing a good deed, we are carrying out the
+plan so long resolved by ourselves, and at last we have found the
+impregnable spot we have so long desired. You all know the island
+of Tortuga, brethren? Separated only by a narrow channel from Saint
+Domingo, it rises like an advanced sentry in the middle of the sea. It
+is the eagle's nest, whence we will laughingly brave the fury of the
+Spaniards. To Tortuga, brethren!"</p>
+
+<p>"To the island of the Tortoise!" the adventurers shouted, brandishing
+their weapons enthusiastically.</p>
+
+<p>"Good!" Montbarts continued. "I knew that you were men who would
+understand me, and that I could reckon upon you. Before seizing on
+Tortuga, however, which is only defended by an insignificant garrison
+of twenty soldiers, who will fly at the first blow, we must, by
+protecting our brethren at Saint Domingo, and securing them the
+territory they occupy, obtain for ourselves useful ports, advantageous
+outlets, and, before all, the means of easily injuring the Spaniards,
+and, if it be possible, expelling them entirely from the island, of
+which they have already lost a portion. Tomorrow, we will proceed to
+Port Margot, come to an understanding there with our brethren, and
+arrange our plans, so as to derive both honour and profit from our
+expedition. And now, brethren, let each crew go aboard. Tomorrow, at
+sunrise, we will set sail for Port Margot, and in a few days I promise
+you glorious fights, and a rich booty to divide among you all. Long
+live France, and death to Spain!"</p>
+
+<p>"Long live France! Death to Spain! Long live Montbarts!" the
+adventurers exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us embark, brethren," Montbarts added. "Do not forget that the
+poor Indians of this island are our friends, and must be treated as
+such by you."</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers then followed their officers, and embarked in the most
+perfect order.</p>
+
+<p>At sunrise, the squadron raised anchor. We need not say that all the
+refreshments purchased of the Indians were scrupulously paid for, and
+that no one had reason to complain of their stay at the Great Key.
+A few hours later the flotilla entered the channel separating Saint
+Domingo from Tortuga, and anchored off Port Margot.</p>
+
+<p>The Spanish island lay before them with its large mounds, tall cliffs,
+and its mountains, whose peaks seemed hidden in the clouds, while on
+the starboard, Tortuga, with its dense, verdant forests, seemed a
+basket of flowers rising from the bottom of the sea.</p>
+
+<p>They had scarce landed ere a canoe, manned by four men, hailed the
+lugger. These four men were Lepoletais, whom we have already caught a
+glimpse of; one of his apprentices, L'Olonnais, and Omopoua, the Carib
+chief.</p>
+
+<p>The Indian had nearly got rid of the European dress, and resumed that
+of his nation.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts went to meet his visitors, saluted them, and led them down to
+the cabin.</p>
+
+<p>"You are welcome," he said to them. "In a few minutes the other
+leaders of the expedition will be here, and then we will talk. In the
+meanwhile, take some refreshment."</p>
+
+<p>And he gave an engagé orders to bring in spirits.</p>
+
+<p>Lepoletais and Omopoua sat down without pressing, but L'Olonnais
+remained modestly standing. In his quality of apprentice he dared not
+place himself on a footing of equality with the adventurers. At this
+moment Michael the Basque entered the cabin.</p>
+
+<p>"Messmate," he said to Montbarts, "Captain Drake and David have just
+come aboard. They are waiting on deck."</p>
+
+<p>"Tell them to come below. I want to talk with them.".</p>
+
+<p>Michael went out. A few minutes after, he returned, accompanied by the
+two captains.</p>
+
+<p>After the first compliments, the two officers drank a bumper, then
+took their seats, and awaited the communication which their chief was
+evidently about to make to them.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts knew the value of time, hence he did not put their patience
+to a long trial.</p>
+
+<p>"Brothers," he said, "I present to you Lepoletais, whom you doubtless
+know already by reputation."</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers bowed smilingly, and spontaneously offered their hand
+to the buccaneer.</p>
+
+<p>The latter cordially returned the pressure, delighted in his heart at
+so frank a reception.</p>
+
+<p>"Lepoletais," Montbarts continued, "is sent to me as a delegate by our
+brethren, the buccaneers of Port Margot and Port de Paix; I prefer to
+let him himself explain what he expects from us&mdash;in this manner we
+shall more easily arrive at an understanding. Speak, then, I pray,
+brother, we are listening."</p>
+
+<p>Lepoletais first poured out a glass of rum, which he swallowed at a
+draught, no doubt for the purpose of clearing his ideas; then, after
+two or three sonorous "hums!" he resolved to speak.</p>
+
+<p>"Brethren," he said, "whatever be the name given us&mdash;filibusters,
+buccaneers, or habitants&mdash;our origin is the same, is it not? And we are
+all adventurers. Hence, we are bound to assist and protect one another,
+like the free companions we are; but, in order that this protection may
+be efficient&mdash;that nothing may weaken in the future the alliance we
+contract today&mdash;we must, like yourselves, find some real profit in the
+alliance. Is not this the case?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly," Michael said, to encourage him.</p>
+
+<p>"This, then, is what is happening," Lepoletais continued; "we
+buccaneers and habitants are here something like the bird on the
+tree, continually pursued by the gavachos, who track us like wild
+beasts, wherever they surprise us, sustaining an unequal contest, in
+which we must eventually succumb, not knowing today if we shall be
+alive tomorrow, and gradually losing all the ground which we gained
+at the outset. This deplorable state of things could not go on much
+longer without entailing a catastrophe, which, with your aid, we hope
+not only to avert, but to prevent definitively; by seizing Tortuga,
+which is badly guarded, and will be badly defended, you procure us
+a sure shelter in case of danger, an ever open refuge in the event
+of a crisis. But this is not all; we must secure frontiers, so that
+tranquillity may prevail in our country, that merchant vessels may
+not fear to enter our ports, and that we may find an outlet for our
+hides, our boucaned meat, and our tallow. These frontiers can be easily
+secured; the only thing wanting is to seize on two points, one in the
+interior, which the Spaniards call the Great Savannah of San Juan, and
+which we have christened the Grand Fond. The town of San Juan is but
+poorly fortified, and merely inhabited by mulattos, or men of mixed
+blood, whom we could easily conquer."</p>
+
+<p>"Is not the Grand Fond, as you call it, traversed by the Artibonite?"
+Montbarts asked, while exchanging a meaning glance with L'Olonnais, who
+was standing by his side.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," Lepoletais replied; "and in the centre is a hatto called the
+Rincón, belonging, I believe, to the Spanish Governor."</p>
+
+<p>"It would be a master stroke to seize that man," Michael the Basque
+observed.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but there is little probability of succeeding in capturing him,
+for he is at Saint Domingo," Lepoletais replied.</p>
+
+<p>"It is possible; but go on."</p>
+
+<p>"The other point is a port called Leogane, or, as the Spaniards term
+it, <i>la Iguana</i>, or the Lizard, from the shape of the tongue of land on
+which it is built; the possession of this port would render us masters
+of the whole western part of the island, and allow us to establish
+ourselves there securely."</p>
+
+<p>"Is Leogane defended?" David inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"No," Lepoletais answered, "the Spaniards let it fall into ruins, as
+they do, indeed, with nearly all the points they occupy; through the
+want of labourers, since the almost utter extinction of the Indian
+race of the island, they gradually abandon the old establishments, and
+retire to the East."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," said Montbarts; "is that all you desire?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, all," Lepoletais answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, what do you propose, brother?"</p>
+
+<p>"This: we buccaneers will hunt for you wild oxen and boars, and
+provision your ships at a price agreed on between us, but which must
+never be higher than one-half the price we ask of foreign vessels that
+come to trade with us; in addition, we will defend you if attacked, and
+in great expeditions you will have the right to claim one man in five
+to accompany you, when you require it. The habitants will cultivate
+the land, and supply you with vegetables, tobacco, and wood to repair
+your vessels, on the same conditions as the provisions. This is what
+I am ordered to propose to you, brothers, in the name of the French
+habitants and buccaneers of Saint Domingo; if these conditions please
+you, and I consider them just and equitable, accept them, and you will
+have no cause to repent having negotiated with us."</p>
+
+<p>These propositions the filibusters were already acquainted with,
+and had discussed their advantages; hence they did not take long
+to deliberate, for they had made up their mind beforehand, as their
+presence at Port Margot proved.</p>
+
+<p>"We accept your propositions, brother," Montbarts answered&mdash;"here is my
+hand, in the name of the filibusters I represent."</p>
+
+<p>"And here is mine," Lepoletais said, "in the name of the habitants and
+buccaneers."</p>
+
+<p>There was no other treaty but this honest shake of the hand between
+the adventurers; thus was concluded an alliance, which remained up to
+the dying day of buccaneering, as fresh and lively as when first made
+between the adventurers.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," Montbarts continued, "let us proceed orderly. How many brothers
+have you capable of fighting?"</p>
+
+<p>"Seventy," Lepoletais answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; we will add to these one hundred and thirty more from the
+fleet, which will give us an effective strength of two hundred good
+fusils. And you, Chief, what can you do for us?"</p>
+
+<p>Up to this moment Omopoua had remained silent, listening to what was
+said with Indian gravity and decorum, and patiently waiting till his
+turn to speak arrived.</p>
+
+<p>"Omopoua will add two hundred Carib warriors, with long fusils, to the
+palefaces," he replied; "his sons are warned; they await the order of
+the Chief&mdash;L'Olonnais has seen them."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! These four hundred men will be commanded by myself; as this
+expedition is the most difficult and dangerous, I will undertake it.
+Michel le Basque will accompany me. I have aboard a guide, who will
+conduct us to Grand Fond. You, Drake, and you, David, will attack
+Leogane with your ships, while Bowline, with only fifteen men, will
+seize on Tortuga. Let us combine our movements, brothers, so that our
+three attacks may be simultaneous, and the Spaniards, surprised on
+three points at once, may not be able to assist one another. Tomorrow
+you will sail, gentlemen, taking with you one hundred and eighty-five
+men, more than sufficient, I believe, to capture Leogane. As for you,
+Bowline, you will keep the lugger with the fifteen men left you, and
+remain here, while watching Tortuga closely. This is the fifth of the
+month, brothers; on the fifteenth we will attack, as ten days will be
+sufficient for all of us to reach our posts, and take all the necessary
+measures. Now, gentlemen, return aboard your vessels, and send ashore,
+under orders of their officers, the contingents I intend to take with
+me."</p>
+
+<p>The two Captains bowed to the Admiral, left the cabin, and returned to
+their ships.</p>
+
+<p>"As for you," Montbarts added, turning to Lepoletais, "this is what
+you will do, brother. You will go with Omopoua to the Grand Fond, as
+if hunting, but you will carefully watch the town of San Juan, and the
+hatto del Rincón; we must, if possible, make sure of the inhabitants
+of that hatto; they are rich and influential, and their capture may be
+of considerable importance to us. You will arrange with Omopoua on the
+subject of the allies he promises to bring us; perhaps it will be as
+well for the Chief to try and lead the Spaniards on to his track, and
+force them to quit their positions: by managing cleverly we might then
+be able to defeat them in detail. Have you understood me, brother?"</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds!" Lepoletais answered, "I should be an ass if I did not. All
+right! I will manoeuvre as you wish."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts then turned to the engagé, and made him a sign.</p>
+
+<p>L'Olonnais drew nearer.</p>
+
+<p>"Go ashore with the Carib and Lepoletais," the Admiral whispered in his
+ear&mdash;"look at everything, hear everything, watch everything; in an hour
+you will receive through Bowline a letter, which you must deliver into
+the hands of Doņa Clara de Bejar, who resides in the hatto on the Grand
+Fond."</p>
+
+<p>"That is easy," L'Olonnais answered, "if it must be, I will hand it to
+her in the midst of all her servants, in the hatto itself."</p>
+
+<p>"Do nothing of the sort; arrange it so that she must come and fetch the
+letter."</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it! That is more difficult! Still, I will try to succeed."</p>
+
+<p>"You must succeed!"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! In that case, on the word of a man, you may reckon on it&mdash;though,
+hang me if I know how I shall manage it!"</p>
+
+<p>Lepoletais had risen.</p>
+
+<p>"Farewell, brother," he said; "when you land tomorrow I shall be on my
+way to the Grand Fond; I shall, therefore, not see you again till we
+meet there; but do not be alarmed&mdash;you shall find everything in order
+when you arrive. Ah! By the way, shall I take my body of buccaneers
+with me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly; they will be of the greatest use to you in watching the
+enemy; but hide them carefully."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," he said.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment Michael the Basque rushed suddenly into the cabin, with
+his features distorted by passion.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter, messmate? Come, recover yourself," Montbarts said
+coolly to him.</p>
+
+<p>"A great misfortune has happened to us," Michael exclaimed, as he
+passionately pulled out a handful of hair.</p>
+
+<p>"What is it? Come, speak like a man, messmate."</p>
+
+<p>"That villain, Antonio de la Ronda&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Well?" Montbarts interrupted, with a nervous tremor.</p>
+
+<p>"He has escaped!"</p>
+
+<p>"Malediction!"</p>
+
+<p>"Ten men have set out in pursuit."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff! It is all up now; they will not catch him. What is to be done?"</p>
+
+<p>"What has happened?" Lepoletais asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Our guide has escaped."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it only that? I promise to find you another."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but this one is probably the cleverest spy the Spaniards possess;
+he knows enough of our secrets to make our expedition fail."</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven preserve us from it! Stuff!" the buccaneer added,
+carelessly&mdash;"Think no more about it, brother; what is done is done&mdash;let
+us go ahead all the same."</p>
+
+<p>And he left the cabin, apparently quite unaffected by the news.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV">CHAPTER XXV.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>FRAY ARSENIO.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Let us now tell the reader who these buccaneers were of whom we have
+several times spoken, and what was the origin of the name given them,
+and which they gave themselves.</p>
+
+<p>The red Caribs of the Antilles were accustomed, when they made
+prisoners in the obstinate contests they waged with each other, or
+which they carried on against the whites, to cut their prisoners into
+small pieces, and lay them upon a species of small hurdles, under which
+they lit a fire.</p>
+
+<p>These hurdles were called <i>barbacoas</i>, the spot where they were set up
+<i>boucans</i>, and the operation <i>boucaning</i>, to signify at the same time
+roasting and smoking.</p>
+
+<p>It was from this that the French boucaniers (anglicised into
+buccaneers) derived their name, with this difference, that they did to
+animals what the others did to men.</p>
+
+<p>The first buccaneers were Spanish settlers on the Caribbean islands,
+who lived on intimate terms with the Indians; hence when they turned
+their attention to the chase, they accustomed themselves without
+reflection to employ these Indian terms, which were certainly
+characteristic, and for which it would have been difficult to
+substitute any others.</p>
+
+<p>The buccaneers carried on no other trade but hunting; they were divided
+into two classes, the first only hunting oxen to get their hides, the
+second killing boars, whose flesh they salted and sold to the planters.</p>
+
+<p>These two varieties of buccaneers were accoutred nearly in the same
+way, and had the same mode of life.</p>
+
+<p>The real buccaneers were those who pursued oxen, and they never called
+the others by any name but hunters.</p>
+
+<p>Their equipage consisted of a pack of twenty-four dogs, among which
+were two bloodhounds, whose duty it was to discover the animal; the
+price of these dogs, settled among themselves, was thirty livres.</p>
+
+<p>As we have said, their weapon was a long fusil, manufactured at Dieppe
+or Nantes; they always hunted together, two at the least, but sometimes
+more, and then everything was in common between them. As we advance in
+the history of these singular men, we shall enter into fuller details
+about their mode of life and strange habits.</p>
+
+<p>When Don Sancho and the Major-domo left them, Lepoletais and L'Olonnais
+had for a long time looked with a mocking glance after the two
+Spaniards, and then went on building their ajoupa and preparing their
+boucan, as if nothing had happened. So soon as the boucan was arranged,
+the fire lit, and the meat laid on the barbacoas, L'Olonnais set about
+curing the hide he had brought with him, while Lepoletais did the same
+to that of the bull which he had killed an hour previously.</p>
+
+<p>He stretched the hide out on the ground, with the hairy side up,
+fastened it down by sixty-four pegs, driven into the earth, and then
+rubbed it vigorously with a mixture of ashes and salt, to make it dry
+more quickly.</p>
+
+<p>This duly accomplished, he turned his attention to supper, the
+preparations for which were neither long nor complicated. A piece of
+meat had been placed in a small cauldron, with water and salt, and soon
+boiled; L'Olonnais drew it out by means of a long pointed stick, and
+laid it on a palm leaf in lieu of a dish; then he collected the grease
+with a wooden spoon, and threw it into a calabash. Into this grease
+he squeezed the juice of a lemon, added a little pimento, stirred
+it all up, and the sauce, the famous <i>pimentado</i>, so liked by the
+buccaneers, was ready. Placing the meat in a pleasant spot in front
+of the ajoupa, with the calabash by its side, he called Lepoletais,
+and the men sitting down facing each other, armed themselves with
+their knife and a wooden spit instead of a fork, and began eating
+with a good appetite, carefully dipping each mouthful of meat in the
+pimentado, and surrounded by their dogs, which, though not daring to
+ask for anything, fixed greedy glances on the provisions spread out
+before them, and followed with eager eyes every morsel swallowed by the
+adventurers.</p>
+
+<p>They had been eating this in silence for some time, when the
+bloodhounds raised their heads, inhaling the air restlessly, and then
+gave several hoarse growls; almost immediately the whole pack began
+barking furiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Eh, eh!" Lepoletais said, after drinking a mouthful of brandy and
+water, and handing the gourd to the engagé, "What is the meaning of
+this?"</p>
+
+<p>"Some traveller, no doubt," L'Olonnais answered carelessly.</p>
+
+<p>"At this hour," the buccaneer went on, as he raised his eyes to the
+sky, and consulted the stars, "why hang it all, it is past eight
+o'clock at night."</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds! I do not know what it is. But stay, I do not know whether I am
+mistaken, for I fancy I can hear a horse galloping."</p>
+
+<p>"It is really true, my son, you are not mistaken," the buccaneer
+continued, "it is indeed a horse; come, quiet, you devils," he shouted,
+addressing the dogs, which had redoubled their barking, and seemed
+ready to rush forward, "quiet, lie down, you ruffians."</p>
+
+<p>The dogs, doubtless accustomed for a long time to obey the imperious
+accents of this voice, immediately resumed their places, and ceased
+their deafening clamour, although they still continued to growl dully.</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile the galloping horses which the dogs had heard a great
+distance off, rapidly drew nearer; it soon became perfectly distinct,
+and at the end of a few minutes a horseman emerged from the forest, and
+became visible, although owing to the darkness it was not yet possible
+to see who this man might be.</p>
+
+<p>On turning into the savannah, he stopped his horse, seemed to look
+around him, with an air of indecision, for some minutes, then,
+loosening the rein again, he came up toward the boucan at a sharp trot.</p>
+
+<p>On reaching the two men, who continued their supper quietly, while
+keeping an eye on him, he bowed, and addressed them in Spanish&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Worthy friends," he said to them, "whoever you may be, I ask you,
+in the name of the Lord, to grant a traveller, who has lost his way,
+hospitality for this night."</p>
+
+<p>"Here is fire, and here is meat," the buccaneer replied, laconically,
+in the same language the traveller had employed; "rest yourself, and
+eat."</p>
+
+<p>"I thank you," he said.</p>
+
+<p>He dismounted: in the movement he made to leave the saddle, his cloak
+flew open, and the buccaneers perceived that the man was dressed in
+a religious garb. This discovery surprised them, though they did not
+allow it to be seen.</p>
+
+<p>On his side the stranger gave a start of terror, which was immediately
+suppressed, on perceiving that in his precipitation to seek a shelter
+for the night, he had come upon a boucan of French adventurers.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, however, had made him a place by their side, and while he
+was hobbling his horse, and removing its bridle, so that it might graze
+on the tall close grass of the savannah, they had placed for him, on a
+palm leaf, a lump of meat sufficient to still the appetite of a man who
+had been fasting for four and twenty hours.</p>
+
+<p>Somewhat reassured by the cordial manner of the adventurers, and, in
+his impossibility to do otherwise, bravely resolving to accept the
+awkward situation in which his awkwardness had placed him, the stranger
+sat down between his two hosts, and began to eat, while reflecting on
+the means of escaping from the difficult position in which he found
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers, who had almost completed their meal before his
+arrival, left off eating long before him; they gave their dogs the food
+they had been expecting with so much impatience, then lit their pipes,
+and began smoking, paying no further attention to their guest beyond
+handing him the things he required.</p>
+
+<p>At length the stranger wiped his mouth, and, in order to prove to his
+hosts that he was quite as much at his ease as they, he produced a leaf
+of paper and tobacco, delicately rolled a cigarette, lit it, and smoked
+apparently as calmly as themselves.</p>
+
+<p>"I thank you for your generous hospitality, seņores," he said,
+presently, understanding that along silence might be interpreted to his
+disadvantage, "I had a great necessity to recruit my strength, for I
+have been fasting since the morning."</p>
+
+<p>"That is very imprudent, seņor," Lepoletais answered, "to embark thus
+without any biscuit, as we sailors say; the savannah is somewhat like
+the sea, you know when you start on it, but you never know when you
+will leave it again."</p>
+
+<p>"What you say is perfectly true, seņor; had it not been for you, I am
+afraid I should have passed a very bad night."</p>
+
+<p>"Pray say no more about that, seņor; we have only done for you what we
+should wish to be done for us under similar circumstances. Hospitality
+is a sacred duty, which no one has a right to avoid: besides, you are a
+palpable proof of it."</p>
+
+<p>"How so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, you are a Spaniard, if I am not mistaken, while we, on the
+contrary, are French. Well, we forget for the moment our hatred of your
+nation, to welcome you at our fireside, as every guest sent by Heaven
+has the right to be received."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, seņor, and I thank you doubly, be assured."</p>
+
+<p>"Good Heavens!" the buccaneer replied, "I assure you that you act
+wrongly in dwelling so much on this subject. What we are doing at this
+moment is as much for you as in behalf of our honour, hence I beg you,
+seņor, not to say any more about it, for it is really not worth the
+trouble."</p>
+
+<p>"Bless me, seņor," L'Olonnais said with a laugh, "why, we are old
+acquaintances, though you little suspect it, I fancy."</p>
+
+<p>"Old acquaintances!" the stranger exclaimed, in surprise; "I do not
+understand you, seņor."</p>
+
+<p>"And yet what I am saying is very clear."</p>
+
+<p>"If you would deign to explain," the stranger replied, completely
+thrown on his beam ends, as Lepoletais would have said, "perhaps I
+shall understand, which, I assure you, will cause me great pleasure."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish for nothing better than to explain myself, seņor," L'Olonnais
+said, with a bantering air; "and in the first place, permit me to
+observe, that, though your cloak is so carefully buttoned, it is not
+sufficiently so to conceal the Franciscan garb you wear under it."</p>
+
+<p>"I am indeed a monk of that order," the stranger answered, rather
+disconcerted; "but that does not prove that you know me."</p>
+
+<p>"Granted, but I am certain that I shall bring back your recollection by
+a single word."</p>
+
+<p>"I fancy you are mistaken, my dear seņor, and that we never saw each
+other before."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you quite sure of that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Man, as you are aware, can never be sure of anything; still, it seems
+to me&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"And yet, it is so long since we met; it is true that you possibly did
+not pay any great attention to me."</p>
+
+<p>"On my honour, I know not what you mean," the monk remarked after
+attentively examining him for a minute or two.</p>
+
+<p>"Come," the engagé said with a laugh, "I will take pity on your
+embarrassment; and, as I promised you, dissipate all your doubts by a
+single word; we saw each other on the island of Nevis. Do you remember
+me?"</p>
+
+<p>At this revelation, the monk turned pale; he lost countenance, and for
+some minutes remained as if petrified; still the thought of denying the
+truth did not come to him for a second.</p>
+
+<p>"Where," L'Olonnais added, "you had a long conversation with Montbarts."</p>
+
+<p>"Still," the monk said with a hesitation that was not exempt from
+terror, "I do not understand&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"How I knew everything," L'Olonnais interrupted him laughingly, "then,
+you have not got to the end of your astonishment."</p>
+
+<p>"What, I am not at the end?"</p>
+
+<p>"Bah, Seņor Padre, do you fancy that I should have taken the trouble to
+bother you about such a trifle? I know a good deal more."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you say?" the monk exclaimed, recoiling instinctively from
+this man whom he was not indisposed to regard as a sorcerer, the more
+so because he was a Frenchman, and a buccaneer to boot, two peremptory
+reasons why Satan should nearly be master of his soul, if by chance he
+possessed one, which the worthy monk greatly doubted.</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds!" the engagé resumed, "You suppose, I think, that I do not know
+the motive of your journey, the spot where you have come from, where
+you are going, and more than that, the person you are about to see."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, come, that is impossible," the monk said with a startled look.</p>
+
+<p>Lepoletais laughed inwardly at the ill-disguised terror of the Spaniard.</p>
+
+<p>"Take care, father," he whispered mysteriously in Fray Arsenio's ear,
+"that man knows everything; between ourselves, I believe him to be
+possessed by the demon."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" he exclaimed, rising hastily and crossing himself repeatedly,
+which caused the adventurers a still heartier laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, resume your seat and listen to me," L'Olonnais continued as he
+seized him by the arm, and obliged him to sit down again, "my friend
+and I are only joking."</p>
+
+<p>"Excuse me, noble caballeros," the monk stammered, "I am in an
+extraordinary hurry, and must leave you at once, though most
+reluctantly."</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense! Where could you go alone at this hour? Fall into a bog. Eh?"</p>
+
+<p>This far from pleasant prospect caused the monk to reflect; still, the
+terror he felt was the stronger.</p>
+
+<p>"No matter," he said, "I must be gone."</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense, you will never find your road to the hatto del Rincón in
+this darkness."</p>
+
+<p>This time the monk was fairly conquered, this new revelation literally
+benumbed him, he fancied himself suffering from a terrible nightmare,
+and did not attempt to continue an impossible struggle.</p>
+
+<p>"There," the engagé resumed, "now, you are reasonable; rest yourself,
+I will not torment you any more, and in order to prove to you that I am
+not so wicked as you suppose me, I undertake to find you a guide."</p>
+
+<p>"A guide," Fray Arsenio stammered, "Heaven guard me from accepting one
+at your hand."</p>
+
+<p>"Reassure yourself, seņor Padre, it will not be a demon, though he may
+possibly have some moral and physical resemblance with the evil spirit;
+the guide I refer to is very simply a Carib."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" said the monk drawing a deep breath, as if a heavy weight had
+been removed from his chest, "If he is really a Carib."</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds! Who the deuce would you have it be?" Fray Arsenio crossed
+himself devoutly.</p>
+
+<p>"Excuse me," he said, "I did not wish to insult you."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come, have patience, I will go myself and fetch the promised
+guide, for I see that you are really in a hurry to part company."</p>
+
+<p>L'Olonnais rose, took his fusil, whistled to a bloodhound, and went off
+at a rapid pace.</p>
+
+<p>"You will now be able," said Lepoletais, "to continue your journey
+without fear of going astray."</p>
+
+<p>"Has that worthy caballero really gone to fetch me a guide, as
+he promised?" Fray Arsenio asked, who did not dare to place full
+confidence in the engagé's word.</p>
+
+<p>"Hang it! I know no other reason why he should leave the boucan."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you are really a buccaneer, seņor?"</p>
+
+<p>"At your service, padre."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah! And do you often come to these parts?"</p>
+
+<p>"Deuce take me if I do not believe you are questioning me, monk,"
+Lepoletais said with a frown, and looking him in the face; "how does
+it concern you whether I come here or not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Me? Not at all."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, but it may concern others, may it not? And you would not
+be sorry to know the truth."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh? can you suppose such a thing?" Fray Arsenio hastily said.</p>
+
+<p>"I do not suppose, by Heaven, I know exactly what I am saying,
+but, believe me, seņor monk, you had better give up this habit of
+questioning, especially with buccaneers, people who through their
+character, do not like questions, or else you might some day run the
+risk of being played an ugly trick. It is only a simple piece of advice
+I venture to give you."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, seņor, I will bear it in mind, though in saying what I did,
+I had not the intention you suppose."</p>
+
+<p>"All the better, but still profit by my hint."</p>
+
+<p>Thus rebuffed, the monk shut himself up in a timid silence; and in
+order to give a turn to his thoughts which, we are bound to say, were
+anything but rosy colored at this moment, he took up the rosary hanging
+from his girdle, and began muttering prayers in a low voice.</p>
+
+<p>Nearly an hour passed then without a word being exchanged between the
+two men; Lepoletais cut up tobacco, while humming a tune, and the monk
+prayed, or seemed to be doing so.</p>
+
+<p>At length a slight noise was heard a short distance off, and a few
+minutes later the engagé appeared, followed by an Indian, who was no
+other than Omopoua, the Carib chief.</p>
+
+<p>"Quick, quick, seņor monk," L'Olonnais said gaily; "here is your guide,
+I answer for his fidelity; he will lead you in safety within two gun
+shots of the hatto."</p>
+
+<p>The monk did not let the invitation be repeated, for anything seemed
+to him preferable to remaining any longer in the company of these two
+reprobates; besides, he thought that he had nothing to fear from an
+Indian.</p>
+
+<p>He rose at one bound, and bridled his horse again, which had made an
+excellent supper, and had had all the time necessary to rest.</p>
+
+<p>"Seņores," he said, so soon as he was in the saddle, "I thank you for
+your generous hospitality, may the blessing of the Lord be upon you!"</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks," the engagé replied with a laugh, "but one last hint before
+parting; on arriving at the hatto, do not forget to tell Doņa Clara
+from me, that I shall expect her here tomorrow; do you hear?"</p>
+
+<p>The monk uttered a cry of terror; without replying, he dug his spurs
+into his horse's flanks, and set off at a gallop, in the direction
+where the Carib was already going, with that quick, elastic step, with
+which a horse has a difficulty in keeping up.</p>
+
+<p>The two buccaneers watched his flight with a hearty laugh, then,
+stretching out their feet to the fire, and laying their weapons within
+reach, they prepared to sleep, guarded by their dogs, vigilant sentries
+that would not let them be surprised.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI">CHAPTER XXVI.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE CONSEQUENCES OF A MEETING.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Fray Arsenio followed his silent guide delightedly, although he was
+surrendered into the hands of an Indian, who must instinctively hate
+the Spaniards, those ferocious oppressors of his decimated and almost
+destroyed race. Still, the monk was glad at having escaped safe and
+sound from the clutches of the adventurers, whom he feared not only as
+ladrones, that is to say, men without faith and steeped in vice, but
+also as demons, or at the least sorcerers in regular connection with
+Satan, for such were the erroneous ideas which the most enlightened of
+the Spaniards entertained about the filibusters and buccaneers.</p>
+
+<p>It had needed all the devotion which the monk professed for Doņa Clara,
+and all the ascendancy that charming woman possessed over those who
+approached her, to make him consent to execute a plan so mad in his
+opinion, as that of entering into direct relation with one of the most
+renowned chiefs of the filibusters, and it was with a great tremor that
+he had accompanied his penitent to Nevis.</p>
+
+<p>When we met him, he was proceeding to the hatto, to inform Doņa Clara,
+as had been arranged between them, of the arrival of the filibustering
+squadron at Port Margot, and consequently of Montbart's presence in the
+island of Saint Domingo.</p>
+
+<p>Unfortunately the monk, but little used to night journeys, across
+untrodden roads which he must guess at every step, lost himself on the
+savannah; overcome with terror, almost dead with hunger, and worn out
+by fatigue, the monk had seen the light of a fire flashing a short
+distance off; the sight of this had restored him hope, if not courage,
+and he had consequently ridden as fast as he could toward the fire, and
+tumbled headlong into a boucan of French adventurers.</p>
+
+<p>In doing this, he unconsciously followed the example of the silly moth,
+which feels itself irresistibly attracted to the candle in which it
+singes its wings.</p>
+
+<p>More fortunate than these insects, the monk had burned nothing at
+all; he had rested, eaten and drunk well, and, apart from a very
+honest terror at finding himself so unexpectedly in such company, he
+had escaped pretty well, or at least he supposed so, from this great
+danger, and had even succeeded in obtaining a guide. Everything, then,
+was for the best, the Lord had not ceased to watch over His servant,
+and the latter only needed to let himself be guarded by Him. Moreover
+the monk's confidence was augmented by the taciturn carelessness of his
+guide who, without uttering a syllable, or even appearing to trouble
+himself about him the least in the world, walked in front of his
+horse, crossing the savannah obliquely, making a way through the tall
+grass, and seemed to direct himself as surely amid the darkness that
+surrounded him, as if he had been lit by the dazzling sunbeams.</p>
+
+<p>They went on thus for a long time following each other without the
+interchange of a word; like all the Spaniards, Fray Arsenio professed
+a profound contempt for the Indians, and it was much against his will
+that he ever entered into relations with them. For his part, the Carib
+was not at all anxious to carry on with this man, whom he regarded as a
+born foe of his race, a conversation which could only be an unimportant
+gossip.</p>
+
+<p>They had reached the top of a small hill, from which could be seen
+gleaming in the distance, like so many luminous dots, the watch fires
+of the soldiers encamped round the hatto, when all at once, instead
+of descending the hill and continuing his advance, Omopoua stopped,
+and looked round him anxiously, while strongly inhaling the air, and
+ordering the Spaniard by a wave of his hand to halt.</p>
+
+<p>The latter obeyed and remained motionless as an equestrian statue,
+while observing with a curiosity blended with a certain amount of
+discomfort, the manoeuvres of his guide.</p>
+
+<p>The Carib had laid himself down and was listening with his ear to the
+ground.</p>
+
+<p>At the end of a few minutes he rose again, though he did not cease
+listening.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter?" the monk, whom this conduct was beginning
+seriously to alarm, asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Horsemen are coming towards us at full speed."</p>
+
+<p>"Horsemen at this hour of night on the savannah?" Fray Arsenio remarked
+incredulously; "It is impossible."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, you are here?" the Indian said with a jeering smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Hum! That is true," the monk muttered, struck by the logic of the
+answer; "who can they be!"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not know, but I will soon tell you," the Carib answered.</p>
+
+<p>And before the monk had the time to ask him what his scheme was,
+Omopoua glided through the tall grass and disappeared, leaving Fray
+Arsenio greatly disconcerted at this sudden flight, and extremely
+annoyed at finding himself thus left alone in the middle of the desert.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes elapsed, during which the monk tried, though in vain, to
+hear the sound which the Indian's sharp sense of hearing had caused him
+to catch long before, amid the confused rumours of the savannah.</p>
+
+<p>The monk, believing himself decidedly deserted by his guide, was
+preparing to continue his journey, leaving to Providence the care of
+bringing him safely into port, when he heard a slight rustling in the
+bushes close to him, and the Indian reappeared.</p>
+
+<p>"I have seen them," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" the monk replied; "And who are they?"</p>
+
+<p>"White men like you."</p>
+
+<p>"Spaniards in that case?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Spaniards."</p>
+
+<p>"All the better," Fray Arsenio continued, whom the good news completely
+reassured; "are they numerous?"</p>
+
+<p>"Five or six at least; they are proceeding like yourself, towards the
+hatto, where, as far as I could understand, they are very eager to
+arrive."</p>
+
+<p>"That is famous; where are they at this moment?"</p>
+
+<p>"Two stones' throw at the most. According to the direction they are
+following, they will pass the spot where you are now standing."</p>
+
+<p>"Better still. In that case we have only to wait."</p>
+
+<p>"You can do so, if you think proper; but I have no wish to meet them."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, my friend," the monk remarked, with a paternal air. "And
+possibly such a meeting would not be agreeable to you; so pray accept
+my thanks for the manner in which you have guided me hitherto."</p>
+
+<p>"You are quite resolved on waiting for them, then? If you like, I can
+enable you to avoid them."</p>
+
+<p>"I have no motive for concealing myself from men of my own colour.
+Whoever they may be, I feel sure that I shall find friends in them."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. Your affairs concern yourself, and I have nothing to do
+with them. But the sound is drawing nearer, and as they will speedily
+arrive, I will leave you, for it is unnecessary for them to find me
+here."</p>
+
+<p>"Farewell."</p>
+
+<p>"One last recommendation: if by chance they had a fancy to ask who
+served as your guide, do not tell them."</p>
+
+<p>"It is not at all probable they will ask this."</p>
+
+<p>"No matter. Promise me, if they do, to keep my secret."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. I will be silent, since you wish it; although I do not
+understand the motive for such a recommendation."</p>
+
+<p>The monk had not finished the sentence, ere the Indian disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>The horsemen were rapidly approaching. The galloping of their steeds
+echoed on the ground like the rolling of thunder. Suddenly several
+shadows, scarcely distinguishable in the obscurity, rose as it were in
+the midst of the darkness, and a sharp voice shouted&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Who goes there?"</p>
+
+<p>"A friend!" the monk answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell your name, <i>Ąsangre de Dios!</i>" the voice repeated, passionately,
+while the dry snap of a pistol being cocked, sounded disagreeably in
+the monk's ears. "At night there are friends in the desert!"</p>
+
+<p>"I am a poor Franciscan monk, proceeding to the hatto del Rincón; and
+my name is Fray Arsenio Mendoza."</p>
+
+<p>A hoarse cry replied to the monk's words&mdash;a cry whose meaning he had
+not the time to conjecture; that is to say, whether it was the result
+of pleasure or anger; for the horsemen came up with him like lightning,
+and surrounded him even before he could understand the reason of such a
+headlong speed to reach him.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, seņores," he exclaimed, in a voice trembling with emotion, "what
+is the meaning of this? Have I to do with the <i>ladrones?</i>"</p>
+
+<p>"Good! Good! Calm yourself, Seņor Padre," a rough voice answered, which
+he fancied he recognised. "We are not <i>ladrones</i>, but Spaniards like
+yourself; and nothing could cause us more pleasure than meeting you at
+this moment."</p>
+
+<p>"I am delighted at what you say to me, caballero. I confess that
+at first the suddenness of your movements alarmed me; but now I am
+completely reassured."</p>
+
+<p>"All the better," the stranger replied, ironically; "for I want to talk
+with you."</p>
+
+<p>"Talk with me, seņor?" he said, with surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"The spot and the hour are badly chosen for an interview, I fancy. If
+you will wait till we reach the hatto, I will place myself at your
+disposal."</p>
+
+<p>"Enough talking. Get off your horse," the stranger observed, roughly;
+"unless you wish me to drag you off."</p>
+
+<p>The monk took a startled glance around him, but the horsemen looked at
+him savagely, and did not appear disposed to come to his help.</p>
+
+<p>Fray Arsenio, through profession and temperament, was quite the
+opposite of a brave man. The way in which the adventure began was
+commencing seriously to alarm him. He did not yet know into what
+hands he had fallen, but everything led him to suppose that these
+individuals, whoever they might be, were not actuated by kindly
+feelings towards him. Still any resistance was impossible, and he
+resigned himself to obey; but it was not without a sigh of regret,
+intended for the Carib, whose judicious advice he had spurned, that he
+at length got off his horse, and placed himself in front of his stern
+questioner.</p>
+
+<p>"Light a torch!" the strange horseman said. "I wish this man to
+recognise me, so that, knowing who I am, he may be aware that he cannot
+employ any subterfuge with me, and that frankness alone will save him
+from the fate that menaces him."</p>
+
+<p>The monk understood less and less. He really believed himself suffering
+from an atrocious nightmare.</p>
+
+<p>By the horseman's orders, however, one of his suite had lighted a torch
+of ocote wood.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as the flame played over the stranger's feature, and illumined
+his face, the monk gave a start of surprise, and clasped his hands at
+the same time as his countenance suddenly reassumed its serenity.</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven be praised!" he said, with an accent of beatitude impossible
+to render. "Is it possible that it can be you, Don. Stenio de Bejar? I
+was so far from believing that I should have the felicity of meeting
+you this night, Seņor Conde, that, on my faith, I did not recognise
+you, and felt almost frightened."</p>
+
+<p>The Count, for it was really he whom the monk had so unfortunately met,
+did not answer for the moment, but contented himself with smiling.</p>
+
+<p>Don Stenio de Bejar, who had left Saint Domingo at full speed, for the
+purpose of going to the hatto del Rincón, in order to convince himself
+of the truth of the information given him by Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+thus found himself, by the greatest accident, just as he was reaching
+his destination, and when he least expected it, face to face with Fray
+Arsenio Mendoza; that is to say, with the only man capable of proving
+to him peremptorily the truth or falsehood of the assertions of the
+spy, who had denounced Doņa Clara to her husband.</p>
+
+<p>Fray Arsenio's reputation for poltroonery had long been current among
+his countrymen, and hence nothing seemed more easy than to obtain from
+him the truth in its fullest details.</p>
+
+<p>The Count believed himself almost certain, by employing intimidation,
+to make Fray Arsenio confess what he knew: hence, so soon as the latter
+had mentioned his name, Don Stenio, warned by the spy, who rode at his
+side, resolved to terrify the monk, and thus render it impossible for
+him to resist the orders he might intimate to him.</p>
+
+<p>We take pleasure in believing that in acting thus, the Count had not
+the slightest intention of treating the monk with a violence, which
+in any case would be deplorable, but dishonourable on the part of
+a man in his position. Unfortunately, through the unforeseen and
+incomprehensible resistance which, contrary to all probability, the
+monk offered him, the Count was led away by his passion, and gave
+orders against his better judgment, when harshness and even cruelty
+could in no case be justified.</p>
+
+<p>After a silence of some seconds, Don Stenio fixed a piercing glance on
+the monk, as if he wished to read his very soul, and then seized him
+brutally by the arm.</p>
+
+<p>"Where have you come from?" he asked him, in a rough voice. "Is it the
+custom for monks of your order to ramble about the country at this hour
+of the night?"</p>
+
+<p>"My lord!" Fray Arsenio stammered, thrown off his guard by this
+question, which he was far from expecting.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come!" the Count continued; "Answer at once, and let us have no
+subterfuge or tergiversation."</p>
+
+<p>"But, my lord, I do not at all understand this great anger which you
+appear to have with me. I am innocent, I vow!"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! ah!" he said, with an ironical laugh; "You are innocent! <i>ĄViva
+Dios!</i> you make haste to defend yourself before you are accused; hence
+you feel yourself guilty."</p>
+
+<p>Fray Arsenio was aware of the Count's jealousy, which he concealed so
+poorly, that, in spite of all his efforts, it was visible to everybody.
+Hence he understood that Doņa Clara's secret had been revealed to her
+husband; and he foresaw the peril that menaced him for having acted as
+her accomplice. Still, he hoped that the Count had only learnt certain
+facts, while remaining ignorant of the details of the Countess' voyage;
+and hence, though he trembled at heart at the thought of the dangers to
+which he was doubtless exposed, alone and defenceless, in the hands of
+a man blinded by passion and the desire of avenging what he regarded
+as a stain on his honour, he resolved, whatever might happen, not to
+betray the confidence which a woman had unhappily placed in him.</p>
+
+<p>He raised his head and replied with a firm voice, and with an accent at
+which he was himself astonished&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"My lord, you are governor of Saint Domingo; you have a right to
+exercise justice over those placed under your rule. You possess almost
+sovereign power, but you have no right, as far as I know, to ill treat
+me, either by word or deed, or to make me undergo an examination at
+your caprice. I have superiors on whom I am dependant; have me taken
+before them; hand me over to their justice, if I have committed any
+fault they will punish me, for they alone have the right of condemning
+or acquitting me."</p>
+
+<p>The Count had listened to the monk's long answer, while biting his lips
+savagely and stamping his foot with passion. He had not thought to find
+such resistance in this man.</p>
+
+<p>"So, then," he exclaimed, when Fray Arsenio at length ceased speaking,
+"you refuse to answer me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I refuse, my lord," he coldly replied, "because you have no right to
+question me."</p>
+
+<p>"You forget, however, Seņor Padre, that if I have not the right, I have
+the might, at least, at this moment."</p>
+
+<p>"You are at liberty, my lord, to abuse that might, by applying it to an
+unhappy and defenceless man. I am no soldier, and physical suffering
+frightens me. I do not know how I shall endure the tortures you will
+perhaps inflict on me, but there is one thing of which I am certain."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, may I ask, Seņor Padre?"</p>
+
+<p>"That I will die, my lord, before answering any of your questions."</p>
+
+<p>"We shall see that," he said, sarcastically, "if you compel me to have
+recourse to violence."</p>
+
+<p>"You will see," he replied, in a gentle but firm voice, which denoted
+an irrevocable determination.</p>
+
+<p>"For the last time, I deign to warn you: take care&mdash;reflect."</p>
+
+<p>"All my reflections are made, my lord; I am in your power. Abuse my
+weakness as you may think proper, I shall not even attempt a useless
+defence. I shall not be the first monk of my order who has fallen a
+martyr to duty: others have preceded me, and others will doubtless
+follow me in this painful track."</p>
+
+<p>The Count stamped his foot savagely; the spectators, dumb and
+motionless, exchanged terrified glances, for they foresaw that this
+scene would soon have a terrible denouement, between two men, neither
+of whom would make concessions; while the first of them, blinded by
+rage, would soon not be in a condition to listen to the salutary
+counsels of reason.</p>
+
+<p>"My lord," Don Antonio de la Ronda murmured, "the stars are beginning
+to turn pale, and the day will soon dawn; we are still far from the
+hatto, would it not be better to set out without further delay?"</p>
+
+<p>"Silence!" the Count answered, with a smile of contempt. "Pedro," he
+added, addressing one of his domestics, "a match."</p>
+
+<p>The valet dismounted and advanced with a long sulphured match in his
+hand.</p>
+
+<p>"The two thumbs," the Count said, laconically.</p>
+
+<p>The domestic approached the monk; the latter offered his hands without
+hesitation, although his face was fearfully pale, and his whole body
+trembled.</p>
+
+<p>Pedro coolly rolled the match between his two thumbs, passing it
+several times under his nails, and then turned to the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"For the last time, monk," the latter said, "will you speak?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have nothing to say to you, my lord," Fray Arsenio replied, in a
+soft voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Light it," the Count commanded, biting his lips till they bled.</p>
+
+<p>The valet, with the passive obedience distinguishing men of this class,
+set fire to the match.</p>
+
+<p>The monk fell on his knees and raised his eyes to Heaven. His face had
+assumed an earthy tint, a cold perspiration beaded on his temples, and
+his hair stood on end. The suffering he experienced must be horrible,
+for his chest heaved violently, although his parched lips remained dumb.</p>
+
+<p>The Count watched him anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Will you speak now, monk?" he said to him in a hollow voice.</p>
+
+<p>Fray Arsenio turned toward him a face whose features were distorted by
+pain, and gave him a look full of ineffable gentleness.</p>
+
+<p>"I thank you, my lord," he said, "for having taught me that pain does
+not exist for a man whose faith is lively."</p>
+
+<p>"My curses on you, wretch!" the Count exclaimed, as he hurled him down
+with a blow on the chest. "To horse, seņores, to horse, so that we may
+reach the hatto before sunrise."</p>
+
+<p>The cavaliers remounted, and went off at full speed, leaving, without
+a glance of compassion, the poor monk, who, vanquished by pain, had
+rolled fainting on the ground.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII">CHAPTER XXVII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COLONY.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>A triple expedition, so serious as that conceived by Montbarts,
+demanded, for its success, extreme care and precautions.</p>
+
+<p>The few points occupied by the buccaneers on the Spanish isles, did not
+at all resemble towns; they were agglomerations of houses built without
+order, according to the liking or caprice of the owner, and occupying a
+space twenty-fold larger than they should have taken in accordance with
+the population. Hence, these points were spots almost impossible to
+defend against a well-combined attack of the Spaniards, if the thought
+occurred to the latter of finishing once for all with their formidable
+neighbours.</p>
+
+<p>Port Margot, for instance, the most important point in the French
+possessions as a strategic position, was only a miserable hamlet, open
+to all comers, without police or organization, where every language
+was spoken, and which Spanish spies entered with the greatest facility
+without incurring a risk of discovery, and thus scented the plans of
+the filibusters.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts, before advancing and attacking the Spaniards, whom he
+correctly suspected of being already acquainted with the motive of
+his presence on the island, either through Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+or other spies, and not wishing, when he was preparing to surprise
+the enemy, to be himself surprised and see his retreat cut off by an
+unforeseen attack, resolved to shelter Port Margot from a <i>coup de
+main.</i></p>
+
+<p>The grand council of the filibusters was convened on board the
+admiral's lugger. In this way the resolutions formed by the council
+would not transpire outside, and not reach hostile ears, ever open to
+hear them.</p>
+
+<p>Two days after the departure of Lepoletais, the council therefore
+assembled on the deck of the vessel, which had been prepared for the
+purpose, as the admiral's cabin had been judged too small to contain
+all those whom their wealth or their reputation authorized in being
+present at the meeting.</p>
+
+<p>At ten in the morning, numerous skiffs left the shore and pulled
+alongside the lugger, boarding it on all sides simultaneously.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts received the delegates as they presented themselves, and led
+them beneath the awning prepared for them.</p>
+
+<p>Ere long, all the delegates were assembled on board: they were forty
+in number; filibusters, buccaneers, and habitants, all adventurers who
+had lived for several years on the isles, and desperate enemies of
+the Spaniards. Their complexion, bronzed by the tropical sun, their
+energetic features, and flashing glances, made them resemble bandits
+rather than peaceful colonists; but their frank and decided manners
+allowed a guess at the prodigies of incredible daring which they had
+already accomplished, and were ready to accomplish again, when the
+moment for action arrived.</p>
+
+<p>When all the members of the council were on board, Michael the Basque
+gave the skiffs orders to return ashore, and to come alongside again
+when they saw a large black and red flag hoisted at the mainmast of the
+lugger. A splendid lunch preceded the council, which, was held at table
+and during the dessert, so as to foil any indiscreet glances, which
+were doubtless watching what was going on aboard from the top of the
+cliffs.</p>
+
+<p>When the repast was ended, and spirits, pipes, and tobacco had
+been laid on the table by the engagés, an order was given to remove
+the awning; the whole of the lugger's crew retired to the bows, and
+Montbarts, without leaving his seat, struck the table with his knife to
+request silence.</p>
+
+<p>The delegates vaguely knew that grave interests were about to be
+discussed, hence they had only eaten and drunk for form's sake, and
+though the table offered all the appearances of a true filibustering
+orgy, their brains were perfectly clear, and their heads cool.</p>
+
+<p>The road of Port Margot offered at this moment a strange spectacle,
+which was not deficient, however, in a certain picturesque and wild
+grandeur.</p>
+
+<p>Thousands of canoes were lying on their oars, forming an immense
+circle, of which the filibustering squadron was the centre.</p>
+
+<p>On shore, the cliffs and rocks were literally hidden by the confused
+and dense mass of spectators who had flocked from all the houses to
+watch, at a distance, this gigantic and Homeric feast, whose serious
+motive they were far from suspecting, beneath its frivolous appearance.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts, after calling his friends' attention in a few words, to
+the enormous crowd of spectators who surrounded them, and showing how
+correct he had been in taking his precautions in consequence, filled
+his glass, and rose, shouting in a sonorous voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Brethren, the health of the king!"</p>
+
+<p>"The health of the king!" the filibusters responded, as they rose, and
+clinked their glasses together.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment, all the guns of the lugger were discharged with a
+formidable noise; a loud clamour that rose from the beach proved that
+the spectators heartily joined in this patriotic toast.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," the admiral continued, as he sat down, which movement was
+imitated by his companions, "let us talk of our business, and be
+careful in doing so, that our gestures may not allow a suspicion of
+what is occupying us, since our words cannot be overheard."</p>
+
+<p>The council commenced its session. Montbarts, with the lofty views and
+clearness of expression he possessed, explained, in a few words, the
+critical position in which the colony would find it, unless energetic
+measures were taken, not only to place it in a position to defend
+itself, but also to hold out during the absence of the expedition.</p>
+
+<p>"I can understand," he said in conclusion, "that so long as we merely
+purposed to hunt wild bulls, such precautions were unnecessary, for our
+breasts were a sure rampart for our habitations; but from today the
+position is changed, we wish to create for ourselves an impregnable
+refuge; we are going to attack the Spaniards in their homes, and must
+consequently expect terrible reprisals from enemies, who, from the way
+in which we act towards them, will soon comprehend that we wish to
+remain the sole possessors of this land, which they have accustomed
+themselves to regard as belonging to them legitimately; we must,
+therefore, be in a position, not alone to resist them, but to inflict
+on them such a chastisement for their audacity, that they will be for
+ever disgusted with any fresh attempts to regain the territory we have
+conquered. To effect this, we must build a real town, in the place of
+the temporary camp which has, up to the present, sufficed us; and, with
+the exception of the members of our association, no stranger must be
+allowed to introduce himself among us, for the sake of spying us, and
+repeating to our enemies our secrets, whatever their nature may be."</p>
+
+<p>The filibusters warmly applauded these remarks, whose truth they
+recognized. They at length saw the necessity of setting order in their
+disorder, and entering the great human family, by themselves accepting
+some of those laws, from which they fancied they had enfranchised
+themselves for ever, and which are the sole condition of the vitality
+of society.</p>
+
+<p>Under the omnipotent influence of Montbarts and the members of the
+association of the Twelve, who were scattered about the meeting, the
+urgent measures were immediately discussed and settled; but when
+everything was arranged, the council suddenly found itself stopped
+short by a difficulty of which it had not thought at all&mdash;who was to be
+entrusted with the duty of carrying out the measures, as no buccaneer
+had a recognized authority over the rest?</p>
+
+<p>The difficulty was great; almost insurmountable. Still it was Montbarts
+who again smoothed down the difficulty to the general satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing is more easy," he said, "than to find the man we want; this
+is an exceptional case, and we must act according to circumstances.
+Let us elect a chief, as for a dangerous expedition, let us choose
+one who is energetic and intelligent, which will be a trifle, as the
+only difficulty will be the choice among so many equally good. This
+chief will be elected by us, the first for a year, his successor for
+only six months, in order to guard against any abuse of power they
+might eventually be attempted to try. This chief will assume the
+title of governor, and in reality govern all civil matters, assisted
+by a council of seven members, chosen by the habitants, as well as
+by subaltern agents, nominated by himself. The laws he will employ
+exist, for they are those of our association; it is understood that the
+governor will watch, like a captain aboard his ship, over the safety
+of the colony, and, in the event of treachery, will be punishable with
+death. This proposition is, I believe, the only one that we can take
+into consideration; does it suit you, brothers? Do you accept it?"</p>
+
+<p>The delegates replied by a universal affirmation,</p>
+
+<p>"In that case let us at once proceed to the election."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, brothers," Belle Tęte said, "with your permission, I have a
+few remarks to submit to the council."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak, brother, we will hear you," Montbarts answered him.</p>
+
+<p>"I offer myself," Belle Tęte said frankly, "as governor, not through
+ambition, for that would be absurd, but because I believe that I am at
+this moment the best man for the place; you all know me, and hence I
+will not put forward my qualifications. Certain reasons urge me to try,
+if possible, to withdraw my promise, and not follow the expedition; to
+which, however, I feel convinced that I shall render great services, if
+you choose me as governor."</p>
+
+<p>"You have heard, brethren," Montbarts said, "consult together, but fill
+your glasses first, you have ten minutes to reflect; at the end of that
+time all the glasses that have not been emptied will be considered as
+adverse votes."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, traitor," Michael the Basque said, leaning over to Belle Tęte's
+ear, by whose side he was seated, "I know why you want to stop at Port
+Margot."</p>
+
+<p>"You? Stuff," he answered with embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds, it is not difficult to guess, you are caught, mate."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, it is true, and you are right, that little devil of a woman I
+bought at St. Kitts has turned my head; she turns me round her little
+finger."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! love!" Michael said ironically.</p>
+
+<p>"The deuce take love, and the woman too; a girl no bigger than that,
+whom I could smash with one blow."</p>
+
+<p>"She is very pretty, you showed good taste; her name is Louise, is it
+not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Louise; it was a bad bargain I made."</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense!" Michael said, with the utmost seriousness, "well, there is
+a way of arranging the matter."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds, I am sure of it."</p>
+
+<p>"I should like to know it, for I confess to you that she has completely
+upset my ideas; the confounded girl, with her bird's voice, and sly
+smile, turns me about like a whirligig: by Heaven, I am the most
+unfortunate of men&mdash;tell me your plan, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, sell her to me."</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte suddenly turned pale at this blunt offer, which, indeed,
+settled everything; but which, though he did not suspect it, Michael
+only made in a joke, and to try him; he frowned, and angrily replied in
+a voice trembling with emotion, and striking the table with his fist&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds, mate, that is a magnificent way you have found, but the fiend
+take me if I accept it; no, no, whatever sorrow the little witch causes
+me&mdash;have I not told you that she has bewitched me?&mdash;I love her! Blood
+and thunder, do you understand that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I understand it; but come, reassure yourself, I have not
+the slightest intention of depriving you of your Louise; what should I
+do with a wife? Besides, what I have seen of other men's love affairs,
+does not offer me the slightest inducement to try it on my own account."</p>
+
+<p>"All right," Belle Tęte replied, reassured by this frank declaration,
+"that is speaking like a man; and, after all, you are right, brother;
+although I would not consent for anything in the world to part with my
+Louise, still, after the experience I have of her, if the bargain was
+to be made again, hang me if I would purchase her."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff!" said Michael, with a shrug of his shoulders, "Men always say
+that, and when the moment arrives, they never fail to begin the same
+folly over again."</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte reflected for a moment, and then tapped Michael amicably on
+the shoulder, at the same time saying with a laugh&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"On my word that is true, brother; you are right, I believe that I
+should really behave as you say."</p>
+
+<p>"I am certain of it," Michael replied, with another shrug of his
+shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>During this aside, between the two adventurers, the ten minutes had
+elapsed.</p>
+
+<p>"Brethren," said Montbarts, "we are about to proceed to an examination
+of the votes."</p>
+
+<p>He looked: all the glasses were empty.</p>
+
+<p>"You are unanimous," he said, "and that is well. Brother Belle Tęte,
+you are elected governor of Port Margot."</p>
+
+<p>"Brethren," the latter said, bowing all round, "I thank you for having
+given me your votes. I shall not deceive your expectations; our colony,
+even though I was obliged to bury myself beneath its ruins, shall never
+fall into the hands of the Spaniards, and you know me well enough not
+to doubt my oath. I intend to set to work this very day; for, as our
+admiral has very justly said, we have not a moment to lose. Confide the
+duty of guarding your interests to me."</p>
+
+<p>"Before we separate," said Montbarts, "it would be as well, I fancy, to
+agree to keep our deliberations secret for a few days."</p>
+
+<p>"You may divulge them tomorrow without danger," Belle Tęte continued;
+"but allow me, brethren, to choose from among you the few assistants I
+shall require."</p>
+
+<p>"Do so," the filibusters answered.</p>
+
+<p>Belle Tęte named eight adventurers, whose blind bravery he knew, and
+then addressed the delegates for the last time, who were already rising
+and preparing to leave the ship.</p>
+
+<p>"You remember, I trust that I am considered by you the leader of an
+expedition."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," they replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Consequently you owe me the most perfect obedience to all the orders I
+shall give you in the common interest."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," they repeated.</p>
+
+<p>"You swear, then, to obey me without any hesitation or murmuring?"</p>
+
+<p>"We do."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; now farewell for the present, brothers."</p>
+
+<p>The boats had been recalled by a flag hoisted at the main yard, and a
+few minutes after all the delegates had left the ship, except Belle
+Tęte and the eight officers chosen by him.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts and Belle Tęte remained shut up for some hours, doubtless
+settling the measures which must be adopted in order to obtain the
+desired result as soon as possible; then, a little before sunset,
+the new Governor took leave of the Admiral, entered a boat prepared
+expressly for him, and returned ashore, followed by his officers.</p>
+
+<p>About eleven o'clock in the evening, when the town appeared completely
+asleep, when all doors were shut, and lights extinguished, an observer
+in a position to see what was going on, would have noticed a strange
+spectacle.</p>
+
+<p>Armed men glided gently out of the houses, casting inquiring glances
+to the right and left, that seemed trying to pierce the profound
+darkness by which they were surrounded. They proceeded separately on
+tiptoe to the principal square, where they joined other men armed like
+themselves, who, having arrived first, were waiting.</p>
+
+<p>Ere long the number of these men, which was augmented every moment,
+became considerable; at an order, given in a low voice, they broke up
+into several parties, left the square by different outlets, went out of
+the town, and formed a wide circle all round it.</p>
+
+<p>One last band of about forty men had remained in the square, however;
+this party was broken up in its turn, but, instead of also leaving the
+town, platoons, composed of ten men each, went from the square in four
+different directions, and entered the streets.</p>
+
+<p>The latter were proceeding to pay domiciliary visits; no house escaped
+their vigilance, they entered all, searching them with the most
+scrupulous exactness, sounding the walls and flooring, and even opening
+cupboards and chests.</p>
+
+<p>Such minute researches necessarily occupied a long time, and did not
+terminate till sunrise.</p>
+
+<p>Eight Spanish spies had been discovered in the houses, and three
+arrested by the sentries at the moment when they attempted flight, or
+eleven in all.</p>
+
+<p>The Governor had them temporarily put in irons aboard the lugger, so
+that they could not escape.</p>
+
+<p>At sunrise, buccaneers, habitants, engagés, and filibusters, all armed
+with spades, pickaxes, and hatchets, set about digging a trench round
+the town.</p>
+
+<p>This job, which was performed with extraordinary ardor, lasted three
+days; the trench was twelve feet wide, by fifteen deep, and the earth
+was thrown up on the side of the town; on this <i>talus</i> stakes were
+planted, bound together with strong iron bands, embrasures being left
+to place guns, and for loopholes.</p>
+
+<p>While the entire population thus laboured with the feverish ardor that
+accomplishes prodigies, large clearings had been effected in the woods
+surrounding the port; then the forest was fired, care being taken that
+the fire should not extend beyond a demi-league in all directions.</p>
+
+<p>These gigantic works, which, in ordinary times, would demand a
+lengthened period, were finished at the end of ten days, which would
+seem incredible were not the fact stated in several records worthy of
+belief.</p>
+
+<p>Port Margot was thus, thanks to the energy of its Governor, and the
+passive obedience with which the filibusters executed his orders,
+not only protected against a <i>coup de main</i>, but also rendered
+capable of resisting a regular siege. And this had been effected with
+such secrecy, that nothing had transpired abroad; and owing to the
+precautions taken at the outset, the Spaniards had no suspicion of the
+change so menacing to them, and which presaged an internecine war.</p>
+
+<p>When the fortifications were finished, the Governor had eleven gallows
+erected, at a certain distance from each other, on the glacis. The
+unhappy Spanish spies were suspended from them, and their bodies were
+fastened to the gallows by iron chains, so that, as Belle Tęte said,
+with an ill-omened smile, the sight of the corpses might terrify those
+of their compatriots, who might be tempted to follow their example,
+and introduce themselves into the town.</p>
+
+<p>All the habitants were then convoked in the chief square, and Belle
+Tęte mounted a platform erected for the purpose, and announced to them
+the determinations formed aboard the lugger, his nomination to the post
+of Governor, the measures he had thought it his duty to take for the
+general welfare, and ended by asking their approbation.</p>
+
+<p>This approbation the inhabitants most willingly granted, because they
+found themselves in presence of accomplished facts, which did not in
+any way injure them.</p>
+
+<p>The Governor, thus finding his undertakings sanctioned, invited the
+inhabitants to nominate a council of seven members chosen from among
+themselves; and this proposition they joyfully accepted, because they
+justly anticipated that these councillors would defend their interests.</p>
+
+<p>The seven municipal councillors were therefore elected at once, and, by
+the Governor's invitation, took their seat by his side on the platform.</p>
+
+<p>Then the Governor informed his audience that nothing was changed in the
+colony, which would continue to be governed by the laws in force among
+the filibusters, that everyone would live in the same liberty as in the
+past, and that the measures taken were solely intended to protect the
+interests of all, and in no way to annoy the colonists, or subject them
+to a humiliating yoke.</p>
+
+<p>This final assurance produced the best effect on the crowd, and the
+Governor retired, amid shouts and the warmest protestations of devotion.</p>
+
+<p>Although Montbarts had chosen to remain obstinately in the background,
+all these ameliorations were solely due to him; Belle Tęte had merely
+been a passive and submissive agent in his hands.</p>
+
+<p>When the Admiral, saw matters in the state he desired, he resolved
+to depart, and after a final interview with the Governor, he placed
+himself at the head of his filibusters, and left the town.</p>
+
+<p>Michael the Basque had departed several hours previously, entrusted
+with a secret mission, and accompanied by ninety resolute men.</p>
+
+<p>From this moment the expedition commenced; but what its result would be
+no one could as yet foretell.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII">CHAPTER XXVIII.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE FLIGHT FROM THE HATTO.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>Without taking the time to peruse the letters that were handed him,
+Don Sancho concealed them in his doublet, and proceeded hastily to his
+sister's apartment.</p>
+
+<p>She was anxiously awaiting him.</p>
+
+<p>"Here you are at last, brother," she exclaimed on perceiving him.</p>
+
+<p>"What," the young man replied, as he kissed her hand, "were you
+expecting me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes, that I was; but you are very late&mdash;what has kept you so
+long?" she asked, in agitation.</p>
+
+<p>"Where have I been? Why, s'death! I have been hunting, the only
+pleasure allowed a gentleman in this horrible country."</p>
+
+<p>"What, at this hour?"</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds, my dear Clara, a man gets home when he can, especially in this
+country, where we ought to feel very happy at reaching home again at
+all."</p>
+
+<p>"You are speaking in enigmas, brother, and I do not at all understand
+you; be kind enough, therefore, to explain yourself clearly&mdash;have you
+fallen into bad company?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and very bad, too; but forgive me, my dear Clara, if you have no
+objection, let us proceed regularly. You desired to see me immediately
+on my return, and here I am at your orders; be kind enough, therefore,
+to tell me how I can possibly be of service to you, and then I will
+narrate the series of singular events with which my today's sport
+has been diversified. I will not hide from you that I have certain
+questions to ask of you, and certain explanations, which I feel sure
+you will not refuse to give me."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, Sancho?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing at present; do you speak first, sister."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, if you insist on it&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not insist at all, sister&mdash;I only request it."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, I yield to your request; I have received several letters."</p>
+
+<p>"So I have; but I confess that I have not read them yet, and do not
+think they are of any great importance."</p>
+
+<p>"I have read mine, and do you know what they tell me beside other news?"</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed, no, unless it be my appointment to the post of Alcade Mayor
+of Hispaniola, which, I allow, would greatly surprise me," he said,
+laughingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Do not jest so, Sancho; the matter is very serious."</p>
+
+<p>"Really? In that case speak, little sister. You see I have as solemn a
+face as your dear husband."</p>
+
+<p>"It is exactly to him I refer."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff! My brother-in-law? Has any accident happened to him in the
+performance of his noble and wearisome duties?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, on the contrary, he is in better health than usual."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, all the better for him; I wish him no harm, though he is
+the most fastidious gentleman of my acquaintance."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you listen to me&mdash;yes or no?" she asked, impatiently.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, I am doing so, dear sister."</p>
+
+<p>"You are really insupportable."</p>
+
+<p>"Come, do not be angry&mdash;I have done; I will not laugh anymore."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you seen the two Fifties encamped in front of the hatto?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and I must allow that I was greatly surprised to see them."</p>
+
+<p>"You will be much more surprised on hearing that my husband is coming
+here."</p>
+
+<p>"He? Impossible, sister! He did not say a word to me about the journey."</p>
+
+<p>"Because it is secret."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah!" the young man remarked, with a frown; "And are you sure that
+he is coming?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certain. The person who writes me so was present at his departure,
+which no one suspects; the courier who brought me the news, and to whom
+the greatest diligence was recommended, is only a few hours ahead of
+him."</p>
+
+<p>"This is, indeed, serious," the young man muttered.</p>
+
+<p>"What is to be done?"</p>
+
+<p>"S'death!" the young man replied, carelessly, but gazing fixedly at
+Doņa Clara&mdash;"Welcome him."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" the lady exclaimed, twisting her hands despairingly, "I have been
+betrayed&mdash;he is coming to avenge himself!"</p>
+
+<p>"Avenge himself? For what, sister?"</p>
+
+<p>She gave him a look of strange significance, and then bent over him.</p>
+
+<p>"I am ruined, brother," she said, in a hollow voice, "for this man
+knows everything, and will kill me."</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho, in spite of himself, was affected by this sorrow; he adored
+his sister, and felt ashamed of the part he was playing at this moment
+before her.</p>
+
+<p>"And I, too, Clara," he said to her, "know everything."</p>
+
+<p>"You! Oh, you are jesting, brother."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I am not; I love you, and wish to save you, even if I gave my life
+to do so: hence, reassure yourself, and do not fix upon me eyes haggard
+with grief."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you know, in heaven's name?"</p>
+
+<p>"I know that which probably a traitor, as you called him, has sold to
+your husband, that is to say, that you left the hatto, went aboard a
+vessel, which conveyed you to Nevis, and there&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! Not a word more, brother," she exclaimed as she fell into his
+arms; "you are really well informed, but I swear to you, brother,
+in the name of what is most sacred in the world, that, although
+appearances condemn me, I am innocent."</p>
+
+<p>"I know it, sister, and never doubted it; what is your intention, will
+you await your husband here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Never, never! Did I not tell you he would kill me?"</p>
+
+<p>"What is to be done then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fly, fly without delay; at once."</p>
+
+<p>"But where shall we go?"</p>
+
+<p>"How do I know? To the cliff or the forest, live among the wild beasts
+sooner than remain any longer here."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, we will go, I know where to take you."</p>
+
+<p>"You?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, did I not tell you that sundry accidents happened to me today
+while hunting?"</p>
+
+<p>"So you did; but what has that to do with it?"</p>
+
+<p>"A great deal," he interrupted; "the Major-domo, who accompanied me,
+and I tumbled over an encampment of filibusters."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah," she said, turning paler than she had been before.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and I intend to conduct you to that encampment; besides, one of
+the buccaneers entrusted me with a message for you."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?"</p>
+
+<p>"Exactly what I am saying, sister."</p>
+
+<p>She appeared to reflect for an instant, and then turned resolutely to
+the young man.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, be it so, brother, let us go to those men, though they are
+represented as so cruel; perhaps every human feeling has not been
+extinguished in their hearts, and they will take pity on me."</p>
+
+<p>"When shall we go?"</p>
+
+<p>"As speedily as possible."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, but the hatto is probably watched and the soldiers have
+doubtless secret orders, you may be a prisoner without suspecting it,
+my poor sister; for what other reason would the two Fifties be here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! In that case I am lost."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps there is one way, and the orders given doubtless only affect
+you; but unfortunately the journey will be long, fatiguing, and beset
+with numberless perils."</p>
+
+<p>"What matter, brother? I am strong, do not be anxious about me."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, we will try; you are absolutely determined on flight?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, whatever may befall me."</p>
+
+<p>"Well then, we will put our trust in heaven, wait for me a moment."</p>
+
+<p>The young man left the room and returned a few minutes later, bearing a
+rather large bundle under his arm.</p>
+
+<p>"Here are my page's clothes, I do not know how they happen to be in
+my possession, but my valet probably placed them in my portmanteau by
+mistake, for they are new, and I remember that the tailor brought them
+home a few minutes before my departure from Saint Domingo, but I thank
+accident for causing it to be so. Dress yourself, wrap yourself up
+in a cloak, put this hat on your head, I will answer for everything.
+Besides, this costume is preferable to your woman's clothes for
+crossing the savannah; mind and not forget to place these pistols and
+this dagger in your belt, for there is no knowing what may happen."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks brother! I shall be ready in a quarter of an hour."</p>
+
+<p>"Good; during that time I will go and reconnoitre; do not open the door
+to anyone but me."</p>
+
+<p>"You may depend upon me."</p>
+
+<p>The young man lit a cigarette and left the apartment with the most
+careless air he could assume.</p>
+
+<p>On entering the zaguán, the Count found himself face to face with the
+Major-domo. Seņor Birbomono had such an anxious look that it did not
+escape Don Sancho; still he continued to advance, pretending not to
+notice it.</p>
+
+<p>But the Major-domo came straight up to him.</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to meet you, Excellency," he said, "if you had not come
+within ten minutes, I should have knocked at the door of your
+apartment."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" Don Sancho observed, "What pressing motive was there to urge you
+to such a step?"</p>
+
+<p>"Is your Excellency aware of what is taking place?" the Major-domo
+continued, without appearing to notice the young man's ironical tone.</p>
+
+<p>"What! Is there really anything happening?"</p>
+
+<p>"Does not your Excellency know it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Probably not, as I ask you; after all, as the news, I am sure,
+interests me but very slightly, you are quite at liberty not to tell it
+to me."</p>
+
+<p>"On the contrary, Excellency, it interests you as well as all the
+inhabitants of the hatto."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! oh! What is it then?"</p>
+
+<p>"It appears that the commander of the two Fifties, has placed sentries
+all round the hatto."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, in that case, we need not fear being attacked by the
+buccaneers, of whom you are so afraid, and I will thank the commandant
+for it."</p>
+
+<p>"You are at liberty to do so, Excellency, but I fancy you will find it
+difficult."</p>
+
+<p>"Why so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because orders are given to let anyone enter the hatto but nobody
+leave it."</p>
+
+<p>A shudder ran through the young man's veins on hearing this; he turned
+frightfully pale, but recovering himself almost immediately, remarked
+carelessly,</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff! that order cannot affect me."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Excellency, it is general."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, you think that, if I tried to go out&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"You would be stopped."</p>
+
+<p>"Confound it, that is very annoying, not that I have any intention of
+going out, but as by my character, I am very fond of doing things which
+are prohibited&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"You would like to take a walk, I suppose, Excellency?"</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho looked at Birbomono, as if trying to read his thoughts.</p>
+
+<p>"And suppose such were my intention?" he resumed presently.</p>
+
+<p>"I would undertake to get you out."</p>
+
+<p>"You?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I; am I not the Major-domo of the hatto?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true; thus, the prohibition does not extend to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"To me, as to the rest, Excellency; but the soldiers do not know the
+hatto as I know; I could Slip between their fingers, whenever I liked."</p>
+
+<p>"I have strong inclination to try it."</p>
+
+<p>"Do so, Excellency; I have three horses at a spot where no one but
+myself could find them."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, three horses?" the young man asked, pricking up his ears.</p>
+
+<p>"Because, doubtless, you do not wish to ride with me only, but will
+take someone with you."</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho, understanding that the Major-domo had penetrated his
+thoughts, made up his mind at once.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us play fairly," he said, "can you be faithful."</p>
+
+<p>"I am so, and devoted too, Excellency, as you have a proof."</p>
+
+<p>"What assures me that you are not laying a trap for me?"</p>
+
+<p>"With what object?"</p>
+
+<p>"That of obtaining a reward from the Count."</p>
+
+<p>"No, Excellency, no reward would induce me to betray my mistress; I may
+be anything you please, but I love Doņa Clara, who has always been kind
+to me, and has often protected me."</p>
+
+<p>"I am willing to believe you, and indeed have no time to discuss the
+point, but here are my conditions: a bullet through the head if you
+betray me, a thousand piastres if you are faithful; do you accept them?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do, Excellency, the thousand piastres are gained."</p>
+
+<p>"You know that I do not threaten in vain."</p>
+
+<p>"I know you."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good, what must we do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Follow me, that is all; our flight will be most easy, for I prepared
+everything on my return; I had my suspicions on seeing those demons
+of soldiers, suspicions which were soon changed into certainty, after
+some skilful inquiries here and there; my devotion to my mistress
+rendered me clear sighted, and you see that I acted wisely in taking my
+precautions."</p>
+
+<p>The accent with which the Major-domo pronounced these words, had such a
+stamp of truth, his face was so frank and open, that the young Count's
+last suspicions were dissipated.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait for me," he said, "I will go and fetch my sister."</p>
+
+<p>And he hurried away.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" said Birbomono, with a grin, so soon as he was alone, "I do not
+know whether Seņor don Stenio de Bejar will be pleased at seeing his
+wife escape in this way, when he felt so certain of holding her; poor
+seņora! She is so good to us all, that it would be infamous to betray
+her, and then, after all, this is a good deed which brings me one
+thousand piastres," he added, rubbing his hands, "that is a very decent
+amount."</p>
+
+<p>It was about eleven o'clock at night, all the lights in the hatto
+were extinguished by orders of the Major-domo, who had provided for
+everything; the slaves had been dismissed to their huts, and a solemn
+silence brooded over the landscape, a silence solely interrupted at
+regular intervals, by the sentries who challenged each other in a
+monotonous voice.</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho soon returned, accompanied by his sister, wrapped up like
+himself, in a long mantle.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara did not speak, but on joining the Major-domo, she
+gracefully held out her right hand to him, on which he respectfully
+impressed his lips.</p>
+
+<p>Although the officers had told the soldiers to keep a good guard, and
+watch carefully, not only the hatto, but its environs, the latter,
+slightly reassured by the darkness on one hand, and on the other,
+by the gloomy and mysterious depths of the forests that surrounded
+them, stood motionless behind the trees, contenting themselves with
+responding to the challenge, every half hour, but not venturing to go
+even a few yards from the shelter they had chosen.</p>
+
+<p>The reasons for this apparent cowardice, were simple, and although we
+have explained them, we will repeat them here, for the sake of greater
+clearness.</p>
+
+<p>In the early times of the buccaneers landing on Saint Domingo, the
+Fifties sent by the governor in pursuit of them, were armed with
+muskets; but after several encounters with the French, in which the
+latter gave them an awful thrashing, their terror of the adventurers
+became so great that, whenever they were sent on an expedition against
+these men, whom they almost regarded as demons, no sooner did they
+enter the forests, or the mountain gorges, or even the savannahs, where
+they might suppose the buccaneers to be ambushed, than they began
+to fire their pieces right and left, for the purpose of warning the
+enemies, and inducing them to withdraw.</p>
+
+<p>The result of this clever manoeuvre was that the adventurers, thus
+warned, decamped in reality, and thus became intangible; the governor
+noticing this result, eventually guessed its cause, and hence, in order
+to avoid such a thing in future, he took the muskets away from the
+soldiers and substituted lances. This change, let us hasten to add, was
+not at all to the liking of these brave soldiers, who thus saw their
+ingenious scheme foiled, and were even more exposed to the blows of
+their formidable enemies.</p>
+
+<p>It was almost without being obliged to take any other precaution than
+that of walking noiselessly and not speaking, that the Major-domo and
+the two persons he served as guide, succeeded in quitting the hatto on
+the opposite side to that on which the Fifties had established their
+bivouac.</p>
+
+<p>Once the line of sentries was passed, the fugitives hurried on more
+rapidly, and soon reached a thicket in the midst of which three fully
+accoutred horses were so thoroughly hidden that unless known to be
+there, it would have been impossible to find them; for a greater
+precaution, and to prevent them from neighing, the Major-domo had
+fastened a cord round their nostrils.</p>
+
+<p>So soon as the three were mounted, and before starting, Birbomono
+turned to Don Sancho,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Where are we going, Excellency?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know the spot where the buccaneers we met today are
+bivouacked?" the young man replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Excellency."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think you could succeed in finding the bivouac in the midst of
+the darkness?"</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing is more easy," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"In that case lead us to those men."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good; but, Excellency, be good enough not press your horse on at
+present, for we are still near the house, and the slightest imprudence
+would be sufficient to give an alarm."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think, then, that they would venture to pursue us?"</p>
+
+<p>"Separately, certainly not; but as they are so numerous, they would
+not hesitate; the less so, because from what I heard them say, they
+feel certain that the buccaneers have never come into these parts. This
+redoubles their bravery, and they would perhaps not be sorry to furnish
+a proof of it at our expense."</p>
+
+<p>"Excellent reasoning; regulate our pace, therefore, as you think
+proper, and we will only act in accordance with your judgment."</p>
+
+<p>They set out; with the exception of the precautions they were obliged
+to take not to be discovered, the journey had nothing disagreeable
+about it, on a bright and perfumed night, beneath a sky studded with
+brilliant stars, and in the midst of a most delightful scenery, whose
+slightest diversities the transparency of the atmosphere allowed to be
+seen.</p>
+
+<p>After an hour spent in a moderate trot, their pace became insensibly
+more rapid, and the horses growing gradually more excited, eventually
+broke into a gallop, at which their riders kept them for a considerable
+period.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara bent over her horse's neck, and with her eyes eagerly fixed
+ahead, seemed to upbraid the slowness of this ride, which, however, had
+assumed the headlong speed of a pursuit: at times she leant over to her
+brother, who constantly kept by her side, and asked him in a choking
+voice&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Shall we soon arrive?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, have patience, sister," the young man said, suppressing a sigh of
+pity for the agony which preyed on his sister's heart.</p>
+
+<p>And their pace grew more rapid than ever.</p>
+
+<p>The stars were already expiring in the heavens, the atmosphere was
+growing refreshed, the horizon was striped by long mother-o'-pearl
+coloured bands, a light sea breeze brought up to the travellers its
+alkaline odours, and the night had passed. Suddenly, at the moment
+when the three riders were about to emerge from a thick wood, in which
+they had been following a track made by the wild cattle for nearly an
+hour, the Major-domo, who was a few yards ahead, pulled up his horse
+and leant back.</p>
+
+<p>"Stop, in Heaven's name!" he exclaimed, in a low voice.</p>
+
+<p>The young couple obeyed, though they did not comprehend this order.</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo went up to them.</p>
+
+<p>"Look!" he muttered, and stretched out his arm toward the savannah.</p>
+
+<p>A rapid gallop, that drew nearer every second, but which the noise of
+their own march had prevented them from hearing, now smote their ears,
+and almost at the same moment they saw through the screen of foliage
+which hid them from sight, several horsemen pass as if borne along by a
+hurricane.</p>
+
+<p>A branch struck off the hat of one of the riders as he passed.</p>
+
+<p>"Don Stenio!" Doņa Clara exclaimed in horror.</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds!" Don Sancho said, "We were just in time."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX">CHAPTER XXIX.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>EVENTS ACCUMULATE.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>The horsemen had continued their wild course without perceiving the
+fugitives: one of them, indeed, at the cry uttered by Doņa Clara, had
+made a gesture as if to stop his steed, but doubtless supposing that
+he had been mistaken, he followed his companions after a moment's
+hesitation, which was very fortunate for him, as Don Sancho had already
+drawn a pistol, with the resolution of blowing out his brains.</p>
+
+<p>For some minutes the fugitives remained motionless, anxiously listening
+to the galloping of the horses, whose sound rapidly retired, and was
+soon lost in the distance, when it became confounded with the other
+noises of the night.</p>
+
+<p>Then they breathed again, and Don Sancho put back in his holster the
+pistol which he had held in his hand up to this moment.</p>
+
+<p>"Hum!" he muttered; "Only the thickness of a bush saved us from being
+discovered."</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven be thanked!" Doņa Clara said; "We are saved!"</p>
+
+<p>"That is to say, my little sister, we are not caught," the young man
+replied, incapable of maintaining his seriousness for five minutes,
+however grave circumstances might be.</p>
+
+<p>"They are going at a tremendous pace," the Major-domo now remarked; "we
+have nothing more to fear from them."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, let us be off," Don Sancho replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes, let us go," Doņa Clara murmured.</p>
+
+<p>They dashed out of the thicket which had offered them so sure a
+protection, and entered the plain.</p>
+
+<p>The sky became lighter every moment; and although the sun was still
+beneath the horizon, its influence was beginning to be felt. Nature
+appeared to shake off her nocturnal sleep; some birds were already
+awake under the soft leaves, and preluding, by soft twittering, their
+matin chant; the dark outlines of savage animals bounded through the
+tall dew-laden grass; and the birds of prey, expanding their mighty
+wings, rose high in æther, as if they wished to go and meet the sun,
+and salute its advent: in a word, it was no longer night, without being
+fully day.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! What I do see at the foot of that mound?" Don Sancho suddenly said.</p>
+
+<p>"Where?" Birbomono asked.</p>
+
+<p>"There, straight in front of us."</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo placed his hands over his eyes, and looked attentively.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>ĄViva Dios!</i>" he exclaimed, at the end of a moment, "It is a man!"</p>
+
+<p>"A man?"</p>
+
+<p>"On my word, yes, Excellency; and, as far as I can distinguish at this
+distance, a Carib savage."</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds! What is he doing on that mound?"</p>
+
+<p>"We shall be able to assure ourselves of that more easily directly,
+unless he thinks proper to keep out of our way."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, let us go to him, in Heaven's name."</p>
+
+<p>"Brother," Doņa Clara objected, "what is the use of lengthening our
+journey, when we are so hurried?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is true," the young man said.</p>
+
+<p>"Reassure yourself, seņora," the Major-domo observed; "that hillock is
+exactly on the road we must follow, and we cannot help passing it."</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara said no more, and the trio set out again.</p>
+
+<p>They soon reached the mound, which they ascended at a gallop.</p>
+
+<p>The Carib had not quitted the spot, but the riders stopped in stupor on
+perceiving that he was not alone.</p>
+
+<p>The Indian, kneeling on the ground, appearing to be attending to a man
+stretched out before him, and who was beginning to regain his senses.</p>
+
+<p>"Fray Arsenio!" Doņa Clara exclaimed at the sight of this man. "Great
+Heavens! He is dead!"</p>
+
+<p>"No," the Indian answered in a gentle voice, as he turned to her, "but
+he has been most horribly tortured."</p>
+
+<p>"He! Tortured?" his hearers exclaimed, unanimously.</p>
+
+<p>"Look at his hands," the Carib continued.</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniards uttered a cry of horror and pity at the sight of the poor
+monk's bleeding and swollen thumbs.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, it is frightful!" they murmured, sadly.</p>
+
+<p>"Wretch," Don Sancho said in his indignation, "you have brought him to
+this state!"</p>
+
+<p>The Carib shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.</p>
+
+<p>"The paleface is mad!" he replied; "My brothers do not torture the
+chiefs of prayer&mdash;they respect them. White men, like himself, have
+inflicted this atrocious punishment upon him."</p>
+
+<p>"Explain yourself, in Heaven's name," Doņa Clara continued; "how is it
+that we find this worthy monk here in such a pitiable state?"</p>
+
+<p>"It will be better to let him explain himself when he has regained his
+senses. Omopoua knows but little."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true," Doņa Clara said, as she dismounted and knelt by the
+side of the wounded man. "Poor fellow! What frightful suffering he must
+be enduring."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you not tell us anything, then?" Don Sancho asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Almost nothing," the chief replied, "this is all that I know."</p>
+
+<p>And he narrated in what way the monk had been confided to him, and how
+he had served as his guide, till they met the white men, when the monk
+discharged him for the purpose of joining them.</p>
+
+<p>"But," he added, "I know not why, some secret foreboding seemed to
+warn me not to leave him: hence, instead of going away I hid myself in
+the shrubs, and witnessed, unseen, the tortures they had him undergo,
+while insisting on his revealing to them a secret, which he refused to
+divulge. Conquered by his constancy, they at length abandoned him half
+dead. Then I rushed from my hiding place, and flew to his help. That is
+all I know; I am a chief, I have no forked tongue, and a falsehood has
+never sullied the lips of Omopoua."</p>
+
+<p>"Forgive me, Chief, the improper language I used at the first moment; I
+was blinded by anger and sorrow," said Don Sancho, holding out his hand.</p>
+
+<p>"The paleface is young," the chief replied with a smile; "his tongue
+moves more quickly than his heart;" then he took the hand so frankly
+offered him, and pressed it cordially.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, oh!" the Major-domo said, with a shake of his head, and leaning
+over to Don Sancho's ear, "If I am not greatly mistaken, Don Stenio is
+mixed up in this affair."</p>
+
+<p>"It is not possible," Don Sancho replied, with horror.</p>
+
+<p>"You do not know your brother-in-law, Excellency; his is a weak nature,
+and all such are cruel; believe me, I am certain of what I state."</p>
+
+<p>"No, no, it would be too frightful."</p>
+
+<p>"Good Heaven," Doņa Clara said, at this moment, "we cannot remain here
+any longer, and yet I should not like to abandon the poor man."</p>
+
+<p>"Let us take him with us," Don Sancho quickly remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"But will his wounds permit him to endure the fatigue of a long ride?"</p>
+
+<p>"We are almost at our journey's end," the Major-domo said, and then,
+turning to the Carib, added&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"We are going to the bivouac of the two buccaneers, who were hunting on
+the savannah yesterday."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good;" said the chief, "I will lead the palefaces by a narrow
+road, and they will arrive ere the sun reaches the edges of the
+horizon."</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara and her brother remounted. The monk was cautiously placed in
+front of the Major-domo, and the small party set out again at a foot
+pace, under the guidance of the Carib chief.</p>
+
+<p>Poor Fray Arsenio gave no other signs of existence but deep sighs,
+which at intervals heaved his chest, and stifled groans torn from him
+by suffering.</p>
+
+<p>At the end of three quarters of an hour they reached the boucan, by the
+near cut, which Omopoua indicated to them.</p>
+
+<p>It was empty, but not deserted, as was proved by the bull hides, still
+stretched out on the ground, and held down by pegs, and the boucaned
+meat suspended from the forks of the branches.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers were probably away, hunting.</p>
+
+<p>The travellers were considerably annoyed by this contretemps, but
+Omopoua relieved them of their embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p>"The palefaces need not be anxious," he said, "the chief will warn his
+friends, the white <i>franiis</i>&mdash;in their absence the paler faces can use,
+without fear, everything they find here."</p>
+
+<p>And, joining example to precept, the Carib prepared a bed of dry
+leaves, which he covered with skins, and, with the Major-domo's aid,
+carefully laid the wounded man upon it; then he lit a fire, and after,
+for the last time repeating to the fugitives the assurance that they
+had nothing to fear, he went off, gliding like a snake through the tall
+grass.</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo, who was tolerably well acquainted with the manners of
+the adventurers, with whom he had had some relations, though always
+against his will, for, brave though he was, or boasted of being,
+they inspired him with a superstitious terror&mdash;reassured the others
+as to their position, by declaring to them, that hospitality was so
+sacred with the buccaneers, that, if they were their most inveterate
+foes instead of quasi guests, as they had only come on their formal
+invitation, they would have nothing to apprehend from them.</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile, thanks to the attention which Doņa Clara had not
+ceased to bestow on him, the poor monk had returned to his senses.
+Although very weak at first, he gradually regained sufficient
+strength to impart to Doņa Clara all that happened to him since their
+separation. This narration, whose conclusion coincided in the minutest
+details with that previously made by the Carib, plunged Doņa Clara
+into a state of stupefaction, which soon changed into horror, when she
+reflected on the terrible dangers that menaced her.</p>
+
+<p>In truth, what help could she expect? Who would dare to protect
+her against her husband, whose high position and omnipotence would
+annihilate every effort she might make to escape from his vengeance.</p>
+
+<p>"Courage," the monk murmured, with a tender commiseration, "courage,
+my daughter, above man there is God. Have confidence in Him; He will
+not abandon you: and if everything fail you, He will come to your
+assistance, and interfere in your favour."</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara, in spite of her perfect faith in the power of Providence,
+only replied to this consolation by tears and sobs; she felt herself
+condemned.</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho was hurriedly walking up and down in the front of the
+ajoupa, twisting his moustache, stamping his foot passionately, and
+revolving in his head the maddest projects.</p>
+
+<p>"Bah," he muttered, at last, "if that demon will not listen to reason,
+I will blow out his brains, and that will settle everything."</p>
+
+<p>And highly pleased at having, after so many vain researches, discovered
+this expeditious mode of saving his sister from the violence, which the
+desire of vengeance would probably suggest to Don Stenio, the young man
+lit a cigarette, and patiently awaited the return of the buccaneers,
+feeling now quite calm and perfectly reassured about the future.</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo, who was almost indifferent as to what was going on
+around him, and delighted with the hope of the promised thousand
+piastres, had turned the time to a good use. Reflecting that on their
+return, the buccaneers, doubtless, would not be sorry to find their
+breakfast ready, he had placed in front of the fire an iron pot, in
+which he placed an enormous lump of meat, to boil, with a reasonable
+quantity of water; in lieu of bread, he had thrust several ignamas
+under the ashes, and then busied himself with preparing the pimentado,
+that absolutely necessary sauce for every buccaneer meal.</p>
+
+<p>The fugitives had held possession of the boucan for nearly an hour and
+a half, when they heard furious barking, and some twenty dogs rushed
+howling toward them: but a sharp, though still distant whistle recalled
+them, and they went off again as quickly as they had come.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later, the Spaniards perceived the two buccaneers; they
+were running up with a surprising speed, although both bore a load
+weighing upwards of a hundredweight, and were in addition embarrassed
+by their weapons and hunting equipment.</p>
+
+<p>Their first care, on arriving at the boucan, was to throw on the ground
+the eight or ten fresh bull hides, till reeking with blood and grease,
+which they brought, and they then advanced toward the strangers, who,
+on their side, had risen to receive them.</p>
+
+<p>The dogs, as if they had understood that they must maintain a strict
+neutrality, were lying on the grass, but kept their flashing eyes fixed
+on the Spaniards, probably ready to spring at their throat upon the
+first signal.</p>
+
+<p>"You are welcome at the ajoupa," Lepoletais said, doffing his hat with
+a politeness that could hardly have been expected on seeing his rough
+appearance. "So long as you like to remain here, you will be regarded
+as our brothers; whatever we possess is yours, dispose of it as you
+think proper, as well as of our arms, should an occasion offer for you
+to demand our help."</p>
+
+<p>"I thank you in the name of my companions, caballero, and accept your
+kind proposal," Doņa Clara answered.</p>
+
+<p>"A woman!" Lepoletais exclaimed, in surprise, "Pardon me, Madam, for
+not recognizing you at once."</p>
+
+<p>"I am, caballero, Doņa Clara de Bejar, to whom, as I was informed, you
+have a letter to deliver."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case doubly welcome, madam; as for the note in question, I
+have not the charge of it, but my comrade."</p>
+
+<p>"Zounds," L'Olonnais exclaimed, who had gone up to the wounded man,
+"Omopoua certainly told us that this poor devil of a monk had been
+almost dismasted, but I did not expect to find him in so pitiable a
+state."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," Lepoletais remarked with a frown, "I am not a very religious
+man, but hang me if I should not hesitate to treat a monk in this way;
+only a pagan is capable of committing such a crime."</p>
+
+<p>Then, with a truly filial attention, which the Spaniards admired, the
+rude adventurer set to work, offering some relief to the wounded man's
+intolerable sufferings, in which he entirely succeeded, owing to a long
+practice in treating wounds of every description, and Fray Arsenio soon
+fell into an invigorating sleep.</p>
+
+<p>During this time L'Olonnais had handed to Doņa Clara the letter
+which Montbarts had entrusted to him for her, and the young lady had
+withdrawn a little for the purpose of reading it.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, come," L'Olonnais said gaily, as he tapped the Major-domo's
+shoulder, "that is what I call a sensible lad, he has thought of the
+substantials; breakfast is ready."</p>
+
+<p>"If that be the case," Lepoletais said, with a significant wink to his
+comrade; "we will eat double tides, for we shall have work before long."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall we not wait the return of the Indian chief?" Don Sancho asked.</p>
+
+<p>"For what purpose?" L'Olonnais said, with a laugh. "Do not trouble
+yourself about him, my gentleman: he is a long way off if he is still
+running. Each of us has his work cut out for him."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care!" Lepoletais remarked. "You had a deuced fine scent,
+Seņor, in responding to our invitation so quickly!"</p>
+
+<p>"Why so?"</p>
+
+<p>"You will soon know. But now take my advice&mdash;recruit your strength by
+eating."</p>
+
+<p>At this moment Doņa Clara rejoined the party. Her demeanour was firmer,
+and her face almost gay.</p>
+
+<p>The table was soon laid&mdash;leaves serving for plates. They sat down to
+it, that is to say, they formed a circle on the ground, and bravely
+assailed the provisions.</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho had resumed all his gaiety. This life appeared to him
+delightful, and he laughed heartily, while eating with a good appetite.
+Doņa Clara herself, in spite of her inward preoccupation, did honour
+to this improvised banquet.</p>
+
+<p>"Up! my darlings," Lepoletais had said to his dogs. "Tally ho! No
+idleness, but go and watch the approaches while we are breakfasting.
+Your share shall be kept."</p>
+
+<p>The dogs had risen with admirable obedience, and turning their backs on
+the boucans, scattered in all directions, and speedily disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>"Yours are first-rate dogs," said Don Sancho.</p>
+
+<p>"You Spaniards are good judges of that," the buccaneer replied,
+mockingly.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman felt the sting, and did not deem it advisable to dwell
+on the subject. In fact, it was at Saint Domingo that the Spaniards
+inaugurated the frightful custom of training bloodhounds to hunt the
+Indians, and employing them as auxiliaries in their wars.</p>
+
+<p>The breakfast was concluded without any fresh incident worthy of
+remark, and the most perfect cordiality prevailed during the repast.</p>
+
+<p>When the masters had finished, it was the turn of the servants; that
+is to say, L'Olonnais whistled up the dogs, which in an instant were
+collected round him, and gave them their share in equal portions.</p>
+
+<p>The buccaneers, leaving their guests, and at liberty to employ their
+time as they thought proper, were soon actively busied in preparing
+their hides.</p>
+
+<p>Several hours passed in this way. About three in the afternoon a dog
+barked, and then held its tongue.</p>
+
+<p>We have forgotten to state that, after their meal, the dogs returned to
+their posts at a signal from the engagé.</p>
+
+<p>The two buccaneers exchanged a glance.</p>
+
+<p>"One!" said L'Olonnais.</p>
+
+<p>"Two!" Lepoletais almost immediately answered on a second bark, which
+broke out in a different direction.</p>
+
+<p>Ere long, like an electric current, the challenges of the hounds
+succeeded each other with extreme rapidity, raised in all directions.</p>
+
+<p>Still, nothing seemed to justify these warnings given by the sentries.
+No suspicious sound could be heard, and the savannah seemed to be
+plunged into the most perfect solitude.</p>
+
+<p>"I beg your pardon, caballero," Don Sancho said to Lepoletais, who
+continued his task with the same ardor, while laughing merrily with his
+comrade; "but will you permit me to ask you a question?"</p>
+
+<p>"Do so, do so, my good gentleman. It is at times well to ask questions:
+besides, if the question does not suit me, I shall be at liberty not to
+answer it, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! Of course."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, speak without fear."</p>
+
+<p>"For some minutes past your dogs seem to have been giving you
+signals&mdash;or, at least, I suppose so?"</p>
+
+<p>"You suppose right, caballero. They are really signals."</p>
+
+<p>"And would there be any indiscretion in asking you the meaning of the
+signals?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not the least in the world, seņor, especially as they interest you
+quite as much as us."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not understand you."</p>
+
+<p>"You will soon do so. These signals signify that the savannah is at
+this moment invaded by several Fifties, which are manoeuvring to
+surround us."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>ĄDiablos!</i>" the young man exclaimed, with a start of surprise: "And
+you do not feel more affected than that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why anticipate anxiety? My comrade and I had a pressing job which we
+were obliged to finish. Now that it is done, we are going to turn our
+attention to the seņores."</p>
+
+<p>"But we cannot possibly resist so many enemies?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Ah! Do you really feel inclined for a brush?"</p>
+
+<p>"S'death! My sister and I are incurring quite as much danger as you,
+and we have not a minute to lose in attempting flight."</p>
+
+<p>"Flight?" the buccaneer said, with a grin; "Nonsense! You must be
+laughing, my gentleman: we are enclosed in an impassable circle&mdash;or
+what looks so."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case, we are lost."</p>
+
+<p>"How you go on! On the contrary, they are lost."</p>
+
+<p>"They? Why, we are only four against a hundred."</p>
+
+<p>"You are mistaken. There are two hundred; and that makes fifty for each
+of us. Call in the dogs, L'Olonnais; they are now useless. Stay! Look
+there; can you see them?"</p>
+
+<p>And he stretched his arm out straight ahead.</p>
+
+<p>In fact, the long lances of the Spanish soldiers appeared above the
+tall grass. Lepoletais had told the truth. These lances formed a
+circle, which was being more and more contracted round the boucan.</p>
+
+<p>"Come! That is rather neat," the buccaneer added, as he affectionately
+tapped the butt of his long fusil.</p>
+
+<p>"Seņora," he added, "keep by the side of the wounded man."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! Let me give myself up," she exclaimed, frantically. "It is on my
+account that this terrible danger menaces you."</p>
+
+<p>"Seņora," the buccaneer replied, as he struck his chest with a gesture
+of supreme majesty; "you are under the safeguard of my honour, and I
+swear by Heaven, that no one, so long as I live, shall dare to lay a
+finger upon you! Go to the wounded man."</p>
+
+<p>Involuntarily subdued by the accent with which the buccaneer uttered
+these words, Doņa Clara bowed without replying, and pensively seated
+herself inside the ajoupa, by the side of Fray Arsenio, who was still
+asleep.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, caballero," Lepoletais said to Don Sancho, "if you have never
+been present at a buccaneering expedition, I promise you you are going
+to see some fun, and enjoy yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," the young man replied, recklessly; "I will fight, if I must. It
+is a glorious death for a gentleman, to die sword in hand!"</p>
+
+<p>"Come," said the buccaneer, as he gave him a friendly tap on the
+shoulder; "you are a fine lad. Something can be made of you."</p>
+
+<p>The Fifties still approached, and the circle grew more and more
+contracted.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+<h4><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX">CHAPTER XXX.</a></h4>
+
+<h3>THE EXTERMINATOR.</h3>
+<hr class="r5" />
+
+<p>For some minutes a mournful silence&mdash;a complete calm, which, however,
+was loaded with menace, hung heavily over the savannah.</p>
+
+<p>At a whistle from the engagé, the dogs ranged themselves behind their
+masters, with heads down, lips drawn back to display their sharp teeth,
+and flashing eyes, they awaited the order to rush forward, though
+without giving the slightest bark or growl.</p>
+
+<p>L'Olonnais, leaning on his long fusil, was smoking his pipe quietly,
+while casting sarcastic glances around.</p>
+
+<p>Lepoletais occupied himself with the utmost order in arranging various
+articles which had been deranged during his morning's operations.</p>
+
+<p>The Major-domo, though in his heart he felt very anxious as to the
+result of this apparently so disproportionate combat, was obliged to
+grin and bear it&mdash;to use a familiar expression; for he was aware that
+if he fell into the hands of his master, he had no mercy to expect
+from him, after the manner in which he had thwarted his projects, by
+favouring the flight of the Countess.</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho de Peņaflor, in spite of his natural levity and warlike
+character, was not without anxiety either, for, as an officer of the
+Spanish army, his place was not in the ranks of the buccaneers, but
+with the soldiers who were preparing to attack them.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara, kneeling by the side of the monk, with clasped hands,
+eyes raised to heaven, and face inundated with tears, was fervently
+imploring the protection of the Almighty.</p>
+
+<p>As for Fray Arsenio, he was quietly sleeping.</p>
+
+<p>Such was the picturesque aspect, imposing in its simplicity, offered
+at this moment by the camp of the adventurers. Four men were preparing
+coolly, and as if for the mere fun of the thing, to contend against
+upwards of two hundred regular troops, from whom they knew that they
+had no quarter to expect, but whom their insane resistance would
+probably exasperate, and urge to measures of cruel violence.</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile the circle was more and more contracted, and the heads
+of the soldiers were already beginning to appear above the tall grass.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, ah!" said Lepoletais, rubbing his horney hands together with an
+air of triumph&mdash;"I fancy it is time to open the ball; what do you say,
+my boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, this is the right moment," the engagé replied, as he went to
+fetch a log from the fire.</p>
+
+<p>"Mind not to stir from the spot where you are," Lepoletais recommended
+the two Spaniards: "zounds! pay attention to this, or you will run a
+risk of having your goose cooked," and he laid a stress on the last
+words, with an evidently sarcastic meaning.</p>
+
+<p>The buccaneers, before establishing their bivouac, had pulled up the
+grass for a distance of about thirty paces all around the ajoupa; this
+grass, dried and calcined by the heat of the sun, had been piled up at
+the border of the cleared ground.</p>
+
+<p>The engagé laid down his fusil, walked straight to this grass, set it
+on fire, and then slowly returned to rejoin his companions.</p>
+
+<p>The effect of this manoeuvre was instantaneous, a jet of flame suddenly
+burst out, spread in all directions, and soon a large portion of the
+savannah presented the appearance of a vast furnace.</p>
+
+<p>The buccaneers laughed heartily at what they considered an excellent
+joke.</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniards, taken unawares, uttered cries of terror, and rapidly
+recoiled, pursued by the flame, which constantly spread, and
+continually advanced toward them.</p>
+
+<p>Still, it was evident that the adventurers had no intention of
+burning the unfortunate Spaniards alive; the fire lit by them had not
+sufficient consistency for that; the grass burned and went out again
+with extreme rapidity. Doubtless the sole result that the buccaneers
+had wished to obtain, was to cause a panic terror to their enemies,
+and cast disorder among them; and in this they had been perfectly
+successful.</p>
+
+<p>The soldiers, half roasted by the flames, fled, uttering cries of
+terror before this sea of fire, which seemed incessantly to pursue
+them, without thinking of looking back, or obeying their officers, and
+having but one thought, escaping the terrible danger that menaced them.</p>
+
+<p>While this was going on Lepoletais coolly explained to Don Sancho the
+probable results of the expedient he had employed.</p>
+
+<p>"You see, Seņor," he said, "this blaze is nothing; it is an almost
+inoffensive straw fire; in a few minutes, or half an hour at the
+latest, it will be extinguished. If these men are cowards we shall have
+got rid of them, if not, they will return, and then the affair will be
+serious."</p>
+
+<p>"But, as you recognize the inefficiency of this means, why did you
+employ it? In my opinion it is more injurious than usual to our
+defence."</p>
+
+<p>The buccaneer shook his head several times.</p>
+
+<p>"You do not understand," he said; "I had several motives for acting
+thus. In the first place, however brave you may suppose your countrymen
+to be, they are now demoralised, and it will be very difficult to
+restore them the courage they no longer possess; on the other hand,
+I was not sorry to see clearly around me, and sweep the savannah a
+little, and lastly," he added, with a cunning look, "who told you that
+the fire I lighted was not a signal?"</p>
+
+<p>"A signal?" Don Sancho exclaimed; "Then you have friends near here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Who knows? Seņor, my companions are very active, and are frequently
+met with when least expected."</p>
+
+<p>"I confess that I do not understand a word of what you are saying to
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"Patience, Seņor, patience! You will soon understand, I assure you,
+and will not require any great effort of the intellect to do so.
+L'Olonnais," he added, turning to his comrade, "I think you had better
+go down there now."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true," L'Olonnais replied, as he carelessly threw his fusil
+over his shoulder, "he will be expecting me."</p>
+
+<p>"Take some of the dogs with you."</p>
+
+<p>"What for?"</p>
+
+<p>"To guide you, my lad; it is not easy now to find one's way through the
+ashes, for all the trails are covered."</p>
+
+<p>The engagé called several dogs by their name, and went off without
+replying, followed by a portion of the pack.</p>
+
+<p>"There," Lepoletais continued, pointing to the engagé, who seemed to be
+running, as he went at such a pace, "just look at that fellow, he is a
+fine chap, eh? And how he behaves, though he has not been more than two
+months in America; in three years from this time I predict to you that
+he will be one of our most celebrated adventurers."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you buy him?" Don Sancho asked, though but little interested in
+details which had no importance for him.</p>
+
+<p>"Unluckily, no, he has only been lent to me for a few days; he is
+the engagé of Montbarts the Exterminator: I offered him two hundred
+piastres for him, but he refused to sell him."</p>
+
+<p>"What?" the young man exclaimed&mdash;"Montbarts, the celebrated filibuster?"</p>
+
+<p>"The very man; he is a friend of mine."</p>
+
+<p>"In that case he is close at hand?"</p>
+
+<p>"That, Seņor, is one of the things which you will learn shortly."</p>
+
+<p>As the buccaneer had foreseen, the fire went out almost as quickly as
+it blazed up, for want of aliment on this savannah, where only grass
+and a few insignificant shrubs grew.</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniards had sought shelter on the banks of the stream, whose
+barren sand preserved them from contact with the fire. The forests,
+too remote from the scene of the fire, had not caught, although a few
+tongues of flame had played round their edge.</p>
+
+<p>From the boucan it was easy to perceive the Spanish officers striving
+to restore some degree of order among their troops, doubtless for the
+purpose of attempting a new attack, although Lepoletais did not appear
+at all alarmed. Among the officers one was especially remarkable; he
+was on horseback, and was taking immense trouble to form the ranks, and
+the other officers came up in turn to receive his orders.</p>
+
+<p>This officer Don Sancho recognized at the first glance.</p>
+
+<p>"This is what I feared," he muttered; "the Count has placed himself at
+the head of the expedition, and we are lost."</p>
+
+<p>In truth, it was Don Stenio de Bejar, who, on arriving at the hatto at
+daybreak, and learning the flight of the Countess, resolved to command
+the expedition.</p>
+
+<p>The position of the adventurers was critical, reduced as they were
+to three, encamped in the middle of a bare plain, and without
+entrenchments of any description. Still, the confidence of the
+buccaneer did not seem diminished, and it was with an ironical air that
+he examined the preparations the enemy was making against him.</p>
+
+<p>The Spaniards, formed again with great difficulty by the energy of
+their officers, at last started, and proceeded once more toward the
+boucan, while taking the same precautions as before, that is to say,
+being careful to extend their front, so as to form a complete circle,
+and entirely surround the encampment.</p>
+
+<p>But the march of the Fifties was slow and measured; it was only with
+extreme caution that the soldiers ventured on this scarcely cooled
+ground, which might conceal fresh snares.</p>
+
+<p>The Count, pointing to the boucan with his sword, in vain excited his
+troops to press on, and finish with this handful of scoundrels who
+dared to oppose His Majesty's troops; the soldiers would not listen,
+and only advanced with greater caution, for the calmness and apparent
+negligence of their enemies frightened them more than a hostile
+demonstration, and must, in their opinion, be owing to some terrible
+trap laid for them.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment the situation was complicated by a strange episode; a
+canoe crossed the stream, and ran ashore exactly at the spot which the
+Spaniards had quitted only a few minutes previously.</p>
+
+<p>This canoe contained five persons, three adventurers, and two Spaniards.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers stepped ashore as calmly as if they; were quite alone,
+and pushing the two Spaniards before them, advanced resolutely toward
+the soldiers.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, astonished, confounded at such audacity, watched them
+coming without daring to make a movement to oppose them.</p>
+
+<p>These three adventurers were Montbarts, Michael the Basque, and
+L'Olonnais, and seven or eight dogs followed them. The two Spaniards
+walked unarmed in front of them, being alarmed about their fate, as was
+proved by the pallor of their faces, and the startled glances which
+they threw around them.</p>
+
+<p>The Count, on perceiving the adventurers, uttered a cry of rage, and
+bounded with uplifted sword to meet them.</p>
+
+<p>"Down with the ladrones!" he cried.</p>
+
+<p>The soldiers, ashamed of being held in check by three men, wheeled
+round, and boldly advanced.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers were surrounded in an instant; but, without displaying
+the slightest surprise at this manoeuvre, they also halted, and
+standing shoulder to shoulder, faced all sides at once.</p>
+
+<p>The soldiers instinctively stopped.</p>
+
+<p>"Death!" the Count cried; "No mercy for the ladrones!"</p>
+
+<p>"Silence," Montbarts replied; "before menacing, listen to the news
+these two couriers bring you."</p>
+
+<p>"Seize these villains!" the Count yelled again. "Kill them like dogs!"</p>
+
+<p>"Nonsense," Montbarts remarked, ironically; "you are mad, my worthy
+sir. Seize us! Why, I defy you to do it."</p>
+
+<p>The three adventurers then emptied their powder flasks into their caps,
+and placed their bullets on the top of it; then, holding in one hand
+their caps thus converted into grenades, and in the other their lighted
+pipes, they waited for the signal.</p>
+
+<p>"Attention, brothers," Montbarts said; "and you scoundrels, make way,
+there, unless you wish us to blow you all up."</p>
+
+<p>And with a firm and measured step the three adventurers advanced toward
+the Spaniards, who were struck with terror, and really opened their
+ranks to make a passage for them.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" Montbarts added, with a laugh, "Do not fear that we shall attempt
+to fly; we only want to join our comrades."</p>
+
+<p>Then was witnessed the extraordinary scene of two hundred men timidly
+following at a respectful distance three filibusters, who, while
+walking and smoking to keep their pipes from going out, did not cease
+from jeering them for their cowardice.</p>
+
+<p>Lepoletais was quite wild with delight: as for Don Sancho, he did
+not know whether to feel most astonished at the mad temerity of the
+French, or the cowardice of his countrymen.</p>
+
+<p>The three adventurers thus most easily effected their junction with
+their companions without having been once disturbed by the Spaniards
+during a rather long walk. In spite of the prayers and exhortations of
+the Count to his soldiers, the only thing he obtained from them was,
+that they continued to advance instead of retreating, as they had a
+manifest intention of doing.</p>
+
+<p>But, while the adventurers thus drew the soldiers after them, and
+concentrated their entire attention, a thing was happening which the
+Count perceived when too late, and which began to cause him serious
+alarm as to the result of his expedition.</p>
+
+<p>In the rear of the centre formed by the Spanish soldiers, another
+circle had been drawn up as if by enchantment, but the latter was
+composed of buccaneers and red Caribs, at whose head Omopoua made
+himself remarkable.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers and Indians had manoeuvred with so much intelligence,
+vivacity, and silence, that the Spaniards were enveloped in a network
+of steel, even before they had suspected the danger that menaced them.</p>
+
+<p>The Count uttered an exclamation of rage, to which the soldiers
+responded by a cry of terror.</p>
+
+<p>The situation was, in fact, extremely critical for the unhappy
+Spaniards, and unless a miracle occurred, it was literally impossible
+for them to escape death.</p>
+
+<p>In fact they had no longer to contend against a few men, resolute, it
+is true, but whom numbers must eventually conquer, even at a sacrifice;
+the filibusters were at least two hundred, and with their allies the
+Caribs, formed an effective strength of five hundred men, all as brave
+lions, and three hundred more than the Spaniards; the latter understood
+that they were lost.</p>
+
+<p>On arriving at the boucan, directly that he had squeezed Lepoletais'
+hand and complimented him on the way in which he had contrived to
+gain time, Montbarts gravely occupied himself with his comrades, in
+restoring the powder and bullets to their respective receptacles, as he
+probably judged that their caps might now be used for their legitimate
+purpose.</p>
+
+<p>While the filibuster was engaged in this occupation, Doņa Clara, pale
+as a corpse, fixed on him burning glances, though she did not venture
+to approach him. At length she took courage, advanced a few paces and
+murmured with an effort in a trembling voice and with clasped hands,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I am here, sir."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts trembled at the sound of this voice, and turned pale; but he
+made an effort over himself and softened the rather hard expression of
+his eye.</p>
+
+<p>"I have come solely on your account, Madam," he replied with a polite
+bow; "I shall have the honour of placing myself at your orders in
+a moment; permit me first to make sure that our interview will be
+uninterrupted."</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara hung her head and returned to her seat by the wounded man.</p>
+
+<p>The adventurers had continued to advance and were soon scarce ten paces
+from the Spaniards, whose terror was augmented by this disagreeable
+vicinity.</p>
+
+<p>"Hola, brothers!" Montbarts shouted in a powerful voice; "Halt, if you
+please."</p>
+
+<p>The filibusters instantaneously became motionless.</p>
+
+<p>"And now, you fellows," the Admiral continued, addressing the soldiers;
+"throw down your arms, unless you wish to be immediately shot."</p>
+
+<p>All the lances and swords fell on the ground with a unanimity which
+proved the desire of the soldiers not to have the menace carried into
+effect.</p>
+
+<p>"Surrender your sword, sir," Montbarts said to the Count.</p>
+
+<p>"Never!" the latter exclaimed, as he made his horse curvet, and
+advanced with upraised blade on the adventurer, from whom he was only
+three paces distant.</p>
+
+<p>At the same instant a fusil was discharged and the sword blade, struck
+within an inch of the guard, was shivered; the Count found himself
+disarmed. With a sudden movement Montbarts seized the horse's bridle
+with one hand, and with the other hurled the Count from the saddle and
+laid him prostrate on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>"Patatras!" Lepoletais said laughingly, while reloading his fusil;
+"What a deuced funny idea to try alone to resist five hundred men."</p>
+
+<p>The Count rose quite confused by his fall; a livid pallor covered his
+face, and his features were contracted by anger; all at once his eyes
+fell upon the Countess.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" He yelled with the cry of a tiger, as he darted towards her, "At
+least I shall avenge myself."</p>
+
+<p>But Montbarts seized him by the arm and rendered him motionless.</p>
+
+<p>"One word, one gesture, and I blow out your brains like the wild beast
+you are," he said to him.</p>
+
+<p>There was such an accent of menace in the filibuster's words; his
+interference had been so rapid that the Count, involuntarily cowed,
+fell back with his arms folded on his chest and remained apparently
+calm, although a volcano was at work in his heart, and his eyes were
+obstinately fixed on the Countess.</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts gazed for a moment at his enemy with an expression of pity
+and contempt.</p>
+
+<p>"You have desired, sir," he at length said to him ironically; "to try
+your strength with the filibusters and will soon learn the cost; while
+impelled by a mad desire of vengeance and inspired by an imaginary
+jealousy, you were virulently pursuing a lady whose noble heart and
+brilliant virtues you are incapable of appreciating, one half of the
+island of which you are the governor has been torn forever from the
+power of your sovereign, by my companions and myself; Tortuga, Leogane,
+San Juan de Goava, and your hatto del Rincón, suddenly surprised, have
+fallen without a blow."</p>
+
+<p>The Count drew himself up, a feverish flush covered his face, he
+advanced a step and cried in a voice choking with passion,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"You lie, villain; however great your audacity may be, it is impossible
+that you have succeeded in seizing the places you mention."</p>
+
+<p>Montbarts shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"An insult coming from lips like yours has no effect," he said, "you
+shall soon have the confirmation of what I assert; but enough of this
+subject; I wished to have you in my power in order that you may be
+witness of what I have to say to this lady. Come," he added, addressing
+Doņa Clara; "come, madam, and forgive me for not wishing to see you
+except in the presence of the man you call your husband."</p>
+
+<p>On hearing the appeal, Doņa Clara rose trembling, and tottered forward.</p>
+
+<p>There was a momentary silence; Montbarts, with his head hanging on his
+chest, seemed plunged in bitter thoughts; at length he drew himself up,
+passed his hand over his forehead as if to drive away the mist that
+obscured his reason, turned to Doņa Clara, and said to her in a gentle
+voice,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"You desired to see me, madam, in order to remind me of a time forever
+past, and to confide a secret to me. This secret I have no right to
+know; the Count de Barmont is dead, dead to everybody, to you before
+all, who did not blush to renounce him, and though you belonged to him
+by legitimate ties, and before all by the more legitimate one of a
+powerful love, cowardly permitted yourself to be chained to another;
+this is a crime, madam, which no forgiveness can efface, either in the
+present or past."</p>
+
+<p>"Pity me, sir," the unhappy lady said, as she writhed beneath this
+curse and burst into tears; "pity me, in the name of my remorse and my
+sufferings!"</p>
+
+<p>"What are you doing, madam?" the Count exclaimed, "Rise at once."</p>
+
+<p>"Silence," Montbarts said in a harsh voice, "Allow this culprit to be
+bowed beneath the weight of her repentance; you, who have been her
+executioner, have less right than anyone else to protect her."</p>
+
+<p>Don Sancho had rushed toward his sister and, roughly repulsing the
+Count, raised her in his arms. Montbarts continued.</p>
+
+<p>"I will only add one word, madam; the Count de Barmont had a child; on
+the day when that child comes to ask his mother's pardon of me, I will
+grant it&mdash;perhaps," he added in a faint voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" the young lady exclaimed with a feverish energy, as she seized
+the hand which the filibuster had not the courage to withdraw from her,
+"Oh sir! You are great and noble, this promise restores me all my hope
+and courage; oh! I swear to you, sir, I will find my child again."</p>
+
+<p>"Enough, madam," Montbarts continued with ill suppressed emotion; "this
+interview has lasted too long; here is your brother, he loves you, and
+will be able to protect you; there is another person whom I regret
+not to see here, for he would have advised and sustained you, in your
+affliction."</p>
+
+<p>"To whom do you allude?" Don Sancho asked.</p>
+
+<p>"To the confessor of your sister."</p>
+
+<p>The young man turned away without answering.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, brother," Lepoletais here observed, "here he is half dead, look
+at his burnt hands."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" Montbarts exclaimed, "It is really he, who is the monster that
+has dared&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Here he is!" the buccaneer replied, as he tapped the shoulder of the
+Count, who was dumb with stupor and horror, for only at this moment did
+he notice his victim.</p>
+
+<p>Two flashes of flame started from Montbart's eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"Villain," he exclaimed, "what, torture an inoffensive man! Oh,
+Spaniards, race of vipers! What sufficiently horrible punishment could
+I inflict on you!"</p>
+
+<p>All his hearers trembled at this passion so long restrained, which had
+at length burst its bonds and now overflowed with irresistible violence.</p>
+
+<p>"By Heaven!" the filibuster exclaimed in a terrible voice, "It is
+the worse for you, butcher, that you remind me I am Montbarts the
+exterminator. L'Olonnais, prepare the fire under the barbacoas of the
+boucan."</p>
+
+<p>An indescribable terror seized on all the hearers of this order,
+which clearly expressed to what a horrible punishment the Count was
+condemned; Don Stenio himself, in spite of his indomitable pride, felt
+a chill at his heart.</p>
+
+<p>But at this moment, the monk, who had hitherto remained motionless on
+his couch, and apparently insensible to what was going on, rose with
+a painful effort, and leaning on the shoulders of Doņa Clara and her
+brother, tottered forward, and knelt with them to the filibuster.</p>
+
+<p>"Pity," he exclaimed, "pity, in Heaven's name!"</p>
+
+<p>"No," Montbarts replied harshly, "This man is condemned."</p>
+
+<p>"I implore you, brother, be merciful," the monk went on to urge him.</p>
+
+<p>All at once the Count drew two pistols from his doublet, and pointed
+one at Doņa Clara, while he placed the other against his own forehead.</p>
+
+<p>"Of what use is it to implore a tiger," he said, "I die, but by my own
+hands, and I die avenged," and he pulled the trigger.</p>
+
+<p>The double detonation was blended in one.</p>
+
+<p>The Count fell dead on the ground; the second shot badly aimed did not
+strike Doņa Clara, but Fray Arsenio, and laid him dying at the foot of
+his assassin. The last word of the poor monk was, "pity!"</p>
+
+<p>And he expired with his eyes fixed on heaven, as if with a last prayer
+addressed in favour of his murderer.</p>
+
+<hr class="tb" />
+
+<p>At sunset the savannah had returned to its habitual solitude;
+Montbarts, after having the victim and the assassin interred in the
+same grave, doubtless that the just man might protect the culprit in
+the presence of the Most High, set out for Port Margot, at the head of
+the filibusters and Caribs.</p>
+
+<p>Doņa Clara and her brother returned to the hatto del Rincón,
+accompanied by the Spanish soldiers, to whom Montbarts had consented to
+restore their liberty, through consideration for the two young people.</p>
+
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="pg" />
+<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BUCCANEER CHIEF***</p>
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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Buccaneer Chief, by Gustave Aimard,
+Translated by Lascelles Wraxall
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: The Buccaneer Chief
+       A Romance of the Spanish Main
+
+
+Author: Gustave Aimard
+
+
+
+Release Date: December 7, 2013  [eBook #44380]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII)
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BUCCANEER CHIEF***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Camille Bernard and Marc D'Hooghe
+(http://www.freeliterature.org) from page images generously made available
+by the Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford
+(http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk)
+
+
+
+Note: Images of the original pages are available through
+      Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford. See
+      http://purl.ox.ac.uk/uuid/324b5598fbd44321abe105868fb7f75a
+
+
+
+
+
+THE BUCCANEER CHIEF
+
+A Romance of the Spanish Main
+
+by
+
+GUSTAVE AIMARD
+
+Author of Smuggler Chief, Strong Hand, etc.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+London
+Ward and Lock, 158, Fleet Street
+MDCCCLXIV
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+       I. THE HOSTELRY OF THE COURT OF FRANCE
+      II. A FAMILY SCENE
+     III. THE ARREST
+      IV. THE ISLE OF SAINTE MARGUERITE
+       V. A BACKWARD GLANCE
+      VI. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
+     VII. DESPAIR
+    VIII. THE PRISONER
+      IX. MAJOR DE L'OURSIERE
+       X. THE SEAGULL LUGGER
+      XI. FRANCE, FAREWELL!
+     XII. THE BEGINNING OF THE ADVENTURE
+    XIII. THE COUNCIL OF THE FILIBUSTERS
+     XIV. THE SECOND PROPOSAL
+      XV. THE SPY
+     XVI. THE SLAVE SALE
+    XVII. THE ENLISTMENT
+   XVIII. NEVIS
+     XIX. THE EXPEDITION
+      XX. THE HATTO
+     XXI. THE MAJOR-DOMO'S STORY
+    XXII. ACROSS COUNTRY
+   XXIII. COMPLICATIONS
+    XXIV. PORT MARGOT
+     XXV. FRAY ARSENIO
+    XXVI. THE CONSEQUENCES OF A MEETING
+   XXVII. THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COLONY
+  XXVIII. THE FLIGHT FROM THE HATTO
+    XXIX. EVENTS ACCUMULATE
+     XXX. THE EXTERMINATOR
+
+
+
+
+THE BUCCANEER CHIEF.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+THE HOSTELRY OF THE COURT OF FRANCE.
+
+
+Although the Seine, from Chanceaux, its fountainhead, to Havre, where
+it falls into the sea, is not more than four hundred miles in length,
+still, in spite of this comparatively limited course, this river is
+one of the most important in the world; for, from the days of Caesar up
+to the present, it has seen all the great social questions which have
+agitated modern times decided on its banks.
+
+Tourists, artists, and travellers, who go a long distance in search of
+scenery, could not find anything more picturesque or more capriciously
+diversified than the winding banks of this river, which is skirted by
+commercial towns and pretty villages, coquettishly arranged on the
+sides of verdant valleys, or half disappearing in the midst of dense
+clumps of trees.
+
+It is in one of these villages, situated but a few leagues from Paris,
+that our story began, on March 26th, 1641.
+
+This village, whose origin dates back to the earliest period of the
+French Monarchy, was at that time pretty nearly what it is now;
+differing in this respect from all the hamlets that surround it, it has
+remained stationary; on seeing it you might fancy that centuries have
+not passed as far as it is concerned. When the neighbouring hamlets
+became villages, and were finally transformed into large towns, it
+continually decreased, so that its population at the present day scarce
+attains the amount of four hundred inhabitants.
+
+And yet its situation is most happy: traversed by a stream and bordered
+by a river, possessing an historic castle, and forming an important
+station on one of the railway lines, it seemed destined to become an
+industrial centre, the more so because its inhabitants are industrious
+and intelligent.
+
+But there is a spell upon the place. The great landowners who have
+succeeded each other in the country, and who mostly grew rich in the
+political commotions, or by risky speculations, have tacitly agreed
+to impede in every possible way the industrial aspirations of the
+population--have ever egotistically sacrificed public interest to their
+private advantage.
+
+Thus the historic castle to which we alluded has fallen into the hands
+of a man who, sprung from nothing, and feeling himself stifled within
+its walls, allows them to crumble away before the effects of time, and,
+to save the expense of a gardener, sows oats in the majestic alleys
+of a park, designed by Le Notre, whose grand appearance strikes with
+admiration the traveller, who sees it at a distance as he is borne past
+in the train.
+
+The same thing is going on in the whole of this unhappy hamlet, which
+is condemned to die of inanition in the midst of the abundance of its
+neighbours.
+
+This village was composed at the period of our narrative of a single
+long narrow street, which ran down from the top of a scarped hill,
+crossed a small rivulet, and terminated only a few yards from the Seine.
+
+This street, through its entire length, was bordered by low, ugly
+tenements, pressing closely together, as if for mutual support, and
+mostly serving as pothouses for the waggoners and other people who at
+this period, when the great network of the French royal roads had not
+yet been made, continually passed through this village, and sought
+shelter there for the night.
+
+The top of the street was occupied by a very wealthy, religious
+community, next to which stood a large building hidden at the end of
+a spacious garden, and serving as hostelry for the wealthy personages
+whom their business or pleasure brought to this place, which was
+surrounded for ten leagues round by sumptuous seigneurial mansions.
+
+There was nothing externally to cause this building to be recognized as
+an inn; a low gateway gave access to the garden, and it was not till
+the traveller had gone along the whole of the latter that he found
+himself in front of the house.
+
+It had, however, another entrance, looking out on a road but little
+frequented at the time, and which was employed by horses and coaches,
+when the traveller had succeeded in obtaining the landlord's leave to
+put up there.
+
+Although this house, as we said, was a hostelry, its owner did not
+admit everybody who proposed to lodge there; on the contrary, he was
+very difficult in the choice of his guests, asserting, rightly or
+wrongly, that a hostelry, which had been honoured on several occasions
+by the presence of the King and the Cardinal Minister, must not serve
+as an asylum either for vagabonds or nightbirds.
+
+In order to justify the right he claimed, the landlord had, a few
+months previously, had the arms of France daubed on a metal plate by
+a strolling painter, and inscribed under it in golden letters--"_The
+Court of France._" This sign he put up over his door.
+
+This inn enjoyed a great reputation, not only in the country, but in
+all the surrounding provinces, and even as far as Paris--a reputation,
+we are bound to add, well deserved, for if mine host was particular in
+the choice of his lodgers, when the latter had succeeded in gaining
+admission he treated them, men and beasts, with a peculiar care, that
+had something paternal about it.
+
+Although it was getting on for the end of March, and, according to the
+almanac, 'Spring had begun some days previously,' the cold was nipping,
+the rime-laden trees stood out sadly against the leaden sky, and a
+thick, hardened layer of snow covered the ground for some depth.
+
+Although it was about ten o'clock at night, it was light, and the moon,
+floating in russet clouds, profusely shed her sickly beams, which
+rendered it almost as light as day.
+
+All were asleep in the village, or, at least, seemed to be so; the
+_Court of France_ alone emitted a light through its ground floor barred
+windows, which proved that somebody was still up there.
+
+Still, the inn did not offer shelter to any traveller.
+
+All those who during the day, and since nightfall, had presented
+themselves, had been mercilessly turned away by the landlord, a stout
+man, with a rubicund face, intelligent features, and a crafty smile,
+who was walking at this moment with an air of preoccupation up and
+down his immense kitchen, every now and then casting an absent glance
+at the preparations for supper, one portion of which was roasting
+before a colossal fireplace, whilst the rest was being got ready by a
+master cook and several assistants.
+
+A middle-aged, short, plump woman, suddenly burst into the kitchen, and
+addressed the landlord, who had turned round at the noise.
+
+"Is it true," she asked, "Master Pivois, that you have ordered the dais
+room to be got ready, as Mariette declares?"
+
+Master Pivois drew himself up.
+
+"What did Mariette tell you?" he enquired, sternly.
+
+"Well, she told me to prepare the best bedroom."
+
+"Which is the best bedroom, Dame Tiphaine?"
+
+"The dais room, master, since it is the one in which His Majesty--"
+
+"In that case," mine host interrupted her, in a peremptory tone,
+"prepare the dais room."
+
+"Still, master," Dame Tiphaine ventured--who possessed a certain amount
+of credit in the house, in the first place, as legitimate spouse of the
+landlord himself, and then, again, through sundry very marked traits of
+character--"with all the respect I owe you, it seems to me--"
+
+"With all the respect I owe you," he exclaimed, stamping his foot
+passionately, "you're a fool, my good creature, obey my orders, and do
+not trouble me further!"
+
+Dame Tiphaine comprehended that her lord and master was not in a
+humour that evening for being contradicted. Like a prudent woman, she
+bowed her head and withdrew, reserving to herself the right of taking
+a startling revenge at a future date for the sharp reprimand she had
+received.
+
+Doubtless satisfied with his display of authority, Master Pivois, after
+taking a triumphant glance at his subordinates, who were surprised at
+this unusual act of vigour, though they did not dare show it, walked
+toward a door that led into the garden; but at the moment when he laid
+his hand on the key, this door, vigorously thrust from the outside,
+opened right in the face of the startled landlord, who tottered back to
+the middle of the room, and a man entered the kitchen.
+
+"At last!" the stranger said, joyously, as he threw his plumed hat on
+a table and took off his cloak. "By heaven! I almost found myself in a
+desert."
+
+And before mine host, who was growing more and more astounded at
+his cool behaviour, had the time to oppose it, he took a chair, and
+comfortably installed himself in the chimney corner.
+
+The newcomer appeared to be not more than twenty-five years of age;
+long black curls fell in disorder on his shoulders; his marked features
+were noble and intelligent; his black eyes, full of fire, announced
+courage, and the habit of commanding; his countenance had a certain
+stamp of grandeur, tempered by the cordial smile that played round
+his wide mouth, full of brilliantly white teeth; his red, and rather
+swollen lips, were adorned, according to the fashion of the day, with
+a most carefully waxed moustache, while his square chin, indicative of
+obstinacy, was covered by a long royale.
+
+His dress, while not rich, was, however, becoming--cut with taste,
+and affected a certain military air, which was rendered more marked
+by the brace of pistols the stranger carried in his belt, and the long
+iron-handled sword that hung at his side.
+
+Altogether, his lofty stature, and muscular, well-developed person,
+and the air of audacity spread all over him, rendered him one of those
+men, the breed of whom was so common at the period, and who at the
+first glance contrived to claim from people with whom accident brought
+them in contact that respect to which, whether justly or unjustly, they
+believed they had a right.
+
+In the meanwhile, the landlord, who had slightly recovered from the
+emotion and surprise he had experienced at what he almost regarded
+as a violation of his domicile, advanced a few steps toward the
+stranger, and while bowing lower than he had intended, and doffing his
+cotton nightcap before the flashing glance the other bent on him, he
+stammered, in anything but a steady voice--
+
+"My lord--"
+
+But the latter interrupted him without ceremony.
+
+"Are you the landlord?" he asked, sharply.
+
+"Yes," Master Pivois grunted, as he drew himself up, feeling quite
+constrained at answering when he was preparing to question.
+
+"Very good," the stranger continued; "look after my horse, which I left
+I know not where in your garden; have him put in the stable, and tell
+the ostler to wash his withers with a little vinegar and water, for I
+am afraid he has hurt himself a little."
+
+These words were uttered so carelessly, that the landlord stood utterly
+confounded, unable to utter a syllable.
+
+"Well," the stranger continued, at the expiration of a moment, with
+a slight frown, "what are you doing here, ass, instead of obeying my
+orders?"
+
+Master Pivois, completely subdued, turned on his heels, and left the
+room, tottering like a drunken man.
+
+The stranger looked after him with a smile, and then turned to the
+waiting-men, who were whispering together, and taking side-glances at
+him.
+
+"Come and wait on me," he said; "place a table here before me near the
+fire, and bring me some supper--make haste, s'death, or I shall die of
+hunger!"
+
+The waiting-men, delighted in their hearts at playing their master
+a trick, did not let the order be repeated; in a second a table was
+brought up, the cloth laid, and, on re-entering the room, the landlord
+found the stranger in the act of carving a magnificent partridge.
+
+Master Pivois assumed at the sight all the colours of the rainbow--at
+first pale, he turned so red that a fit of apoplexy might be
+apprehended, so vivid was his emotion.
+
+"By Heaven," he exclaimed, stamping his foot angrily, "that is too
+much."
+
+"What?" the stranger asked, as he raised his head and wiped his
+moustache; "What is the matter with you, my good man?"
+
+"Matter, indeed!" mine host growled.
+
+"By the way, is my horse in the stable?"
+
+"Your horse, your horse," the other grumbled, "as if that is troubling
+me."
+
+"What is it then, if you please, master mine?" the stranger asked, as
+he poured out a bumper which he conscientiously drained to the last
+drop. "Ah," he said, "it is Jurancon; I recognise it."
+
+This indifference and this coolness raised the landlord's anger to the
+highest pitch, and caused him to forget all prudence.
+
+"Cogswounds," he said, boldly seizing the bottle, "it is a strange
+piece of impudence thus to enter an honest house without the owner's
+permission; decamp at once, my fine gentleman, unless you wish harm
+to befall you, and seek a lodging elsewhere, for, as far as I am
+concerned, I cannot and will not give you one."
+
+The stranger had not moved a feature during this harangue; he had
+listened to Master Pivois without displaying the slightest impatience:
+when the landlord at length held his tongue, he threw himself back in
+his chair, and looked him fixedly in the face.
+
+"Listen to me in your turn, master," he said to him, "and engrave these
+words deeply on your narrow brain: this house is an inn, is it not?
+Hence it must be open without hesitation to every stranger who comes
+here for food and lodging with money in his pocket. I am aware that you
+claim the right of only receiving such persons as you think proper; if
+there are people who put up with that, it is their business, but for my
+part, I do not intend to do so. I feel comfortable here, so I remain,
+and shall remain as long as I think proper; I do not prevent you from
+swindling me, for that is your duty as a landlord, and I have no right
+to object; but, if I am not served politely and dexterously--if you do
+not give me a proper bedroom to spend the night in--in a word, if you
+do not perform the duties of hospitality toward me in the way I expect,
+I promise to pull down your signboard, and hang you up in its place,
+on the slightest infraction you are guilty of. And now I suppose you
+understand me?" he added, squeezing the other's hand so hard that the
+poor fellow uttered a yell of agony, and went tottering against the
+kitchen wall: "Serve me, then, and let us have no more argument, for
+you would not get the best of the quarrel if you picked one with me."
+
+And without paying further attention to the landlord, the traveller
+continued his interrupted supper.
+
+It was all over with the landlord's attempted resistance; he felt
+himself vanquished, and did not attempt a struggle which had now become
+impossible. Confused and humiliated, he only thought of satisfying this
+strange guest who had installed himself by main force in the house.
+
+The traveller did not in any way abuse his victory; satisfied with
+having obtained the result he desired, he did not take the slightest
+liberty.
+
+The result was that gradually, from one concession to another--the one
+offering, the other not refusing--they became on the best possible
+terms; and toward the end of the supper, mine host and the traveller
+found themselves, without knowing how, the most affectionate friends in
+the world.
+
+They were talking together. First of the rain and fine weather, the
+dearness of provisions, the king's illness, and that of his Eminence
+the Cardinal; then, growing gradually bolder, Master Pivois poured out
+a huge bumper of wine for his improvised guest, and collected all his
+courage.
+
+"Do you know, my good gentleman," he said to him suddenly, shaking his
+head with an air of contrition, "that you are fearfully in my way?"
+
+"Stuff!" the stranger answered, as he tossed off the contents of his
+glass, and shrugged his shoulders, "Are we coming back to the old
+story of just now? I thought that settled long ago."
+
+"Alas! I would it were so for everybody as it is for me."
+
+"What do you mean?"
+
+"Pray do not get into a passion, sir," the landlord continued timidly;
+"I have not the slightest intention of insulting you."
+
+"In that case explain yourself in the Fiend's name, my master, and come
+frankly to the point; I do not understand what others beside yourself
+have to do in the matter."
+
+"That is just the difficulty," said Master Pivois, scratching his head.
+
+"Speak, zounds! I am not an ogre; what is it that causes you such
+anxiety?"
+
+The landlord saw that he must out with it, and fear giving him courage,
+he bravely made up his mind.
+
+"Monseigneur," he said, honestly, "believe me that I am too much the
+man of the world to venture to act with rudeness to a gentleman of your
+importance--"
+
+"Enough of that," the stranger interrupted, with a smile.
+
+"But--" the host continued.
+
+"Ah! There is a _but_."
+
+"Alas! Monseigneur, there always is one, and today a bigger one than
+ever."
+
+"Hang it all, you terrify me, master," the stranger remarked, with a
+laugh; "tell me quickly, I beg of you, what this terrible but is."
+
+"Alas! Monseigneur, it is this: my entire hostelry was engaged a week
+ago by a party of gentlemen; I expect them to arrive in an hour--half
+an hour, perhaps, and--"
+
+"And?" the stranger asked, in an enquiring tone, which caused the host
+to shudder.
+
+"Well, Monseigneur," he resumed in a choking voice, "these gentlemen
+insist on having the hostelry to themselves, and made me swear not to
+receive any other traveller but themselves, and paid me to that effect."
+
+"Very good," said the stranger, with an air of indifference.
+
+"What do you say; very good? Monseigneur," Master Pivois exclaimed.
+
+"Hang it! What else would you have me say? You have strictly fulfilled
+your engagement, and no one has the right to reproach you."
+
+"How so, sir?"
+
+"Unless you have someone concealed here," the stranger answered,
+imperturbably, "which, I confess, would not be at all honourable on
+your part."
+
+"I have nobody."
+
+"Well, then?"
+
+"But you, monseigneur?" he hazarded timidly.
+
+"Oh, I," the stranger replied laughingly, "that is another affair; let
+us make a distinction, if you please, master; you did not receive me,
+far from it; I pressed my company on you, as I think you will allow."
+
+"It is only too true."
+
+"Do you regret it?"
+
+"Far from it, monseigneur," he exclaimed eagerly, for he was not at all
+desirous of re-arousing the slumbering wrath of the irascible stranger;
+"I am only stating a fact."
+
+"Very good, I see with pleasure, Master Pivois, that you are a very
+serious man; you are stating a fact, you say?"
+
+"Alas! yes," the luckless host sighed.
+
+"Very good; now follow my reasoning closely."
+
+"I am doing so."
+
+"When these gentlemen arrive, which according to your statement, will
+be soon, you will only have one thing to do."
+
+"What is it, monseigneur?"
+
+"Tell them exactly what has passed between us. If I am not greatly
+mistaken this honest explanation will satisfy them; if it be
+otherwise--"
+
+"Well, if it be so, what am I to do, sir?"
+
+"Refer them to me, Master Pivois, and I will undertake in my turn to
+convince them; gentlemen of good birth perfectly understand each other."
+
+"Still, monseigneur--"
+
+"Not a word more on this subject, I must request; but stay," he added,
+and listened, "I believe your company are arriving."
+
+And he carelessly threw himself back in his chair.
+
+Outside, the trampling of horses on the hardened snow could be
+distinctly heard, and then several blows were dealt on the door.
+
+"It is they," the host muttered.
+
+"A further reason not to keep them waiting; go and open the door,
+master, for it is very cold outside."
+
+The landlord hesitated for a moment and then left the room without
+replying.
+
+The stranger carefully folded himself in his mantle, pulled the brim of
+his beaver over his eyes, and awaited the entrance of the newcomers,
+while affecting an air of indifference.
+
+The waiting-men, who had sought shelter in the most remote corner of
+the room, were trembling in the prevision of a disturbance.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+A FAMILY SCENE.
+
+
+In the meanwhile the new arrivals were making a great noise in the
+road, and seemed to be growing impatient at the delay in letting them
+into the hostelry.
+
+Master Pivois at length decided to open to them, though he was
+suffering from a secret apprehension as to the consequences which the
+presence of a stranger in the house might have for him.
+
+As soon as a stable-lad had by his orders, drawn back the bolts,
+and opened the carriage-gates, several horsemen entered the yard,
+accompanied by a coach drawn by four horses.
+
+By the light of the lanthorn held by his lad the landlord perceived
+that the travellers were seven in number; three masters, three
+servants, and the coachman on the box. All were wrapped up in thick
+cloaks, and armed to the teeth.
+
+So soon as the coach had entered the yard, the horsemen dismounted;
+one of them, who appeared to exercise a certain authority over his
+companions, walked up to the landlord, while the others brought the
+coach up to the main entrance of the house, and closed the gates.
+
+"Well, master," said the traveller to whom we allude, with a very
+marked foreign accent, although he expressed himself very purely in
+French; "have my orders been punctually executed?"
+
+At this question, which was very embarrassing to him, Master Pivois
+scratched his head, and then replied like the cunning peasant he was--
+
+"As far as possibly, yes, my lord."
+
+"What do you mean, scoundrel?" the traveller resumed roughly; "Your
+instructions were precise enough."
+
+"Yes, my lord," the landlord said humbly; "and I will even add that I
+was liberally paid beforehand."
+
+"In that case, what have you to say?"
+
+"That I have done the best I could," Master Pivois replied in growing
+confusion.
+
+"Ah! I suppose you mean that you have someone in the house?"
+
+"Alas! yes, my lord," the landlord answered, hanging his head.
+
+The traveller stamped his foot passionately.
+
+"S'blood!" he exclaimed; then, at once resuming an apparent calmness,
+he continued, "Who are the persons?"
+
+"There is only one."
+
+"Ah!" said the traveller, with satisfaction, "If there be only one,
+nothing is more easy than to dislodge him."
+
+"I fear not," the landlord ventured timidly, "for this traveller, who
+is a stranger to me, I swear, looks to me like a rude gentleman, and
+not at all inclined to surrender his place."
+
+"Well, well, I will take it on myself," the traveller remarked
+carelessly, "where is he?"
+
+"There, in the kitchen, my lord, warming himself at the fire."
+
+"That will do; is the room ready?"
+
+"Yes, my lord."
+
+"Rejoin those gentlemen, and show them the way yourself; none of your
+people must know what takes place here."
+
+The landlord, delighted at having got off so cheaply, bowed
+respectfully, and hastily retired in the direction of the garden;
+as for the traveller, after exchanging a few whispered words with a
+footman, who remained with him, he pulled his hat over his eyes, opened
+the door, and boldly entered the kitchen.
+
+It was deserted: the stranger had disappeared.
+
+The traveller looked anxiously around him; the waiting men, probably
+in obedience to orders previously received from their master, had
+withdrawn to their attics.
+
+After a few seconds' hesitation, the traveller returned to the garden.
+
+"Well," the landlord asked, "have you seen him, my lord?"
+
+"No," he replied, "but it is of no consequence; not a word about him to
+the persons who accompany me; he has doubtless left, but if that be not
+the case, be careful that he does not approach the apartments you have
+reserved for us."
+
+"Hum," the landlord muttered to himself, "all this is not clear;" and
+he withdrew very pensively.
+
+Truth to tell, the worthy man was frightened. His new customers had
+unpleasant faces, and a rough manner, which reassured him but slightly;
+and then again he fancied he had seen alarming shadows gliding about
+among the trees in his garden, a fact which he had carefully avoided
+verifying, but which heightened his secret apprehensions.
+
+Dame Tiphaine, torch in hand, was waiting at the house door, in
+readiness to light the travellers, and conduct them to their
+apartments. When the coach had been turned and stopped, one of the
+travellers went up to it, opened the door, and assisted a lady in
+getting out.
+
+This lady, who was magnificently dressed, appeared to be suffering,
+and she walked with difficulty. Still, in spite of her weakness, she
+declined the arm of one of the travellers offered her in support, and
+approached Dame Tiphaine, who, compassionate like all women, hastened
+to offer her the service she seemed to request of her, and helped her
+to ascend the rather steep staircase that led to the dais room.
+
+The travellers left the driver and a lackey to guard the coach, which
+remained horsed, and silently followed the sick lady.
+
+The dais room, the finest in the inn, was spacious and furnished with
+a certain amount of luxury; a large fire crackled on the hearth, and
+several candles, placed on the furniture, diffused a rather bright
+light.
+
+A door half hidden by tapestry communicated with a bedroom, that had a
+door opening on the passage, for the convenience of the attendants.
+
+When the lady had entered the room, she sank into a chair, and thanked
+the landlady with a bow.
+
+The latter discreetly withdrew, astonished and almost terrified by the
+gloomy faces which surrounded her.
+
+"Holy Virgin!" she said to Master Pivois, whom she found walking in
+great anxiety along the passage, "What's going to happen here? These
+men frighten me; that poor lady is all of a tremble, and the little I
+saw of her face behind her mask, is as white as a sheet."
+
+"Alas!" Master Pivois said with a sigh, "I am as frightened as you, my
+dear, but we can do nothing; they are too great people for us--friends
+of his Eminence. They would crush us without pity; we have only one
+thing to do, and that is to retire to our room, as we received orders
+to do, and to keep quiet till our services are required; the house is
+theirs, at this moment they are the masters."
+
+The landlord and his wife went into their room, and not satisfied with
+double locking their door, barricaded it with everything that came to
+hand.
+
+As Master Pivois had said to his wife, the travellers were certainly
+masters of the inn, or at least believed themselves so.
+
+The stranger, while feigning the deepest indifference, had watched the
+landlord's every movement: as soon as the latter left the kitchen to
+open the door for the newcomers, he rose, threw a purse of gold to the
+scullions, while putting his finger on his lips to recommend silence to
+them, and carefully wrapping himself in his mantle, left the kitchen.
+
+The scullions, with the intelligence characteristic of the class,
+comprehended that this action of the stranger concealed some plans in
+the execution of which it was to their interest not to interfere; they
+divided the money so generously given them, and remembering the orders
+they had received from their master, they hastily decamped, and went
+off to hide themselves.
+
+The stranger, while the landlord was receiving the travellers, had
+proceeded to the thickest part of the garden.
+
+On reaching the little gate to which we have referred, he whistled
+gently.
+
+Almost immediately two men seemed to rise from the midst of the
+darkness, and came up to him.
+
+Each of these men had a long rapier at his side, pistols in his girdle,
+and a musketoon in his hand.
+
+"What is there new?" the stranger asked; "Have you seen anything,
+Michael?"
+
+"Captain," the man answered, to whom the question was addressed, "I
+have seen nothing, but still I fear a trap."
+
+"A trap?" the stranger repeated.
+
+"Yes," Michael continued, "Bowline has taken bearings of several
+ill-looking fellows who seem desirous of boarding us."
+
+"Stuff! You are mad, Michael. You have seen the travellers who have
+just arrived at the inn."
+
+"No, captain; on the contrary, they exactly resemble the fellows who
+have been chasing us ever since the day before yesterday, regular
+Cardinal's bloodhounds, I'll wager."
+
+The stranger appeared to reflect. "Are they far off?" he at length
+asked.
+
+"Speak, Bowline, my boy," said Michael, turning to his comrade, "and
+don't shiver your sails, the captain is hailing you."
+
+"Well, then, Captain," said Bowline, a sturdy Breton, with a crafty
+look, "I sighted them over the starboard quarter at about four o'clock;
+I spread all my canvas to distance them, and I fancy I have left them
+four or five cables length in the rear."
+
+"In that case we have about an hour before us?"
+
+"Yes, about, Captain," Bowline replied.
+
+"That is more than we want; listen, my lads, and swear on your honour
+as sailors to obey me."
+
+"You may be quite sure we shan't fail, Captain," they answered.
+
+"I reckon on you."
+
+"Shiver my topsails, we know that," Michael replied.
+
+"Whatever may happen to me," the stranger continued, "leave me to act
+alone, unless I give you express orders to come to my assistance. If
+the Cardinal's bloodhounds were to arrive while we are up aloft, you
+will bolt."
+
+"We bolt!" the two sailors exclaimed.
+
+"You must, lads! Who would deliver me if we were all three prisoners?"
+the stranger asked.
+
+"That's true," Michael answered.
+
+"Well then, that's settled, is it not?"
+
+"Yes, Captain."
+
+"Ah! By the way, if I am arrested you will want money to liberate me;
+take this."
+
+He placed in their hands a heavy purse, which the sailors accepted
+without any remark.
+
+"Now follow me, and keep your weather eye open, my lads."
+
+"All right, Captain," Michael answered, "we are on watch."
+
+The stranger then proceeded towards the house, closely followed by
+the two sailors. He reached the passage, at the end of which the
+travellers' room was, at the moment when Master Pivois and his wife
+were locking themselves in their bedroom.
+
+The coach, guarded by the driver and a footman, was still standing in
+front of the principal entrance, but the three men passed unnoticed.
+
+So soon as the landlady had left the room, the traveller who appeared
+to have a certain degree of authority over his companions, opened the
+bedroom door, doubtless to make certain there was no spy listening;
+then he took a chair, sat down by the fire, and made a sign to his
+companions to imitate him; the two lackeys alone remained standing near
+the door, with their hands resting on the muzzles of their carbines,
+butts of which were on the ground.
+
+For some moments there was a funereal silence in this room, although
+six persons were assembled in it.
+
+At length the traveller made up his mind to speak, and addressed the
+young lady, who was reclining in her chair, with her head bent on her
+breast and pendant arms.
+
+"My daughter," he said, in a grave voice, and speaking in Spanish, "the
+moment has arrived for a clear and distinct explanation between us,
+for we have only four leagues to travel ere we reach the end of our
+long journey. I intend to remain twenty-four hours in this hostelry, in
+order to give you time to repair your strength, and allow you to appear
+in a proper state before the man for whom I destine you."
+
+The young lady only replied to this dry address by a hollow groan.
+
+Her father continued, without appearing to notice the utter state of
+prostration in which she was--
+
+"Remember, my daughter, that if, on the entreaty of your brothers here
+present, I consented to pardon the fault you have committed, it is on
+the express condition that you will obey my orders without hesitation,
+and do all I wish."
+
+"My child?" she murmured, in a voice choked by grief--"What have you
+done with my child?"
+
+The traveller frowned, and a livid pallor covered his face; but he
+immediately recovered himself.
+
+"That question again, unhappy girl?" he said, in a gloomy voice;
+"Do not trifle with my wrath by reminding me of your crime, and the
+dishonour of my house."
+
+At these words the girl drew herself up suddenly, and with a hurried
+gesture pulled off the velvet mask that covered her face.
+
+"I am not guilty," she said, in a haughty voice, and looking her father
+in the face; "and you are perfectly aware of it, for it was you who
+introduced the Count de Barmont to me. You encouraged our love, and it
+was by your orders that we were secretly married. You dare not assert
+the contrary."
+
+"Silence, wretch!" the traveller exclaimed, and rose passionately.
+
+"Father!" the two gentlemen, who had hitherto remained motionless and
+as if strangers to this stormy interview, exclaimed, as they threw
+themselves before him.
+
+"Well," he said, as he resumed his seat, "I will restrain myself: I
+will only ask you one further question, Dona Clara--will you obey me?"
+
+She hesitated for a moment, and then appeared to form a supreme
+resolution.
+
+"Listen to me, my father," she replied, in a hurried though firm voice;
+"you told me yourself that the moment for an explanation between us
+had arrived; very well, let us have this explanation. I, too, am your
+daughter, and jealous of the honour of our house; that is why I insist
+on your answering me without equivocation or deception."
+
+While speaking thus, the young lady, who was only sustained by the
+factitious strength sorrow imparted to her, for she was frail and
+delicate, was supremely beautiful; with her body bent back, her head
+haughtily raised, her long and silky black hair falling in disorder on
+her shoulders, and contrasting with the marble pallor of her face; with
+her large eyes, inflamed by fever and inundated with tears, that slowly
+coursed down her cheeks, and with her bosom heaving from the emotion
+that held mastery over her--there was about her whole person something
+deathly, which seemed no longer to belong to the earth.
+
+Her father felt involuntarily affected, in spite of his ferocious
+pride; and it was with a less rough voice he replied--
+
+"I am listening to you."
+
+"Father," she resumed, leaning her hand on the back of her chair in
+order to support herself, "I told you that I am not guilty, and I
+repeat that the Count de Barmont and myself were secretly united in
+the church of la Merced at Cadiz, and were so by your orders. As you
+know it, I will not dwell further on this point; my child is, therefore
+legitimate, and I have a right to be proud of it. How is it, then, that
+you, the Duke de Penaflor, belonging to the highest class in Spain,
+not satisfied with tearing me on the very day of marriage from the
+husband yourself selected, and depriving me of my infant on the day
+of its birth, accused me of committing a horrible crime, and insisted
+on enchaining me to another husband, while my first is still living?
+Answer me, my father, so that I may know the nature of that honour
+about which you so often speak to me, and what is the motive that
+renders you so cruel to an unfortunate girl, who owes her life to you,
+and who, ever since she has been in this world, has only felt love and
+respect for you."
+
+"This is too much, unnatural daughter!" the Duke shouted, as he rose
+wrathfully--"And as you are not afraid of braving me so unworthily--"
+
+But he suddenly checked himself, and stood motionless, trembling with
+fury and horror; the bedroom door had suddenly opened, and a man
+appeared in it, upright, haughty, with flashing eye, and hand on his
+sword hilt.
+
+"Ludovic, at last!" the young lady shrieked, as she rushed towards him.
+
+But her brothers caught her by the arms, and constrained her to sit
+down again.
+
+"The Count de Barmont!" the Duke muttered.
+
+"Myself, my lord Duke de Penaflor," the stranger replied, with
+exquisite politeness--"you did not expect me, it appears to me?"
+
+And, walking a few paces into the room, while the two sailors who had
+followed him guarded the door, he proudly put his hat on again, and
+folded his arms.
+
+"What is going on here?" he asked, in a haughty voice; "And who dares
+to use violence to the Countess de Barmont?"
+
+"The Countess de Barmont?" the Duke repeated, contemptuously.
+
+"It is true," the other remarked, ironically; "I forget that you expect
+at any moment a dispensation from the Court of Home, which will declare
+my marriage null and void, and allow you to give your daughter to the
+man whose credit has caused you to be nominated Viceroy of New Spain."
+
+"Sir!" the Duke exclaimed.
+
+"What, do you pretend I am in error? No, no, my lord Duke, my spies are
+as good as yours--I am well served, believe me: thank heaven I have
+arrived in time to prevent it. Make way there!" he said, repulsing by a
+gesture the two gentlemen who opposed his passage--"I am your husband,
+madam; follow me, I shall be able to protect you."
+
+The two young men, leaving their sister, who was in a semi-fainting
+state, rushed on the Count, and both buffeted him in the face with
+their gloves, while drawing their swords.
+
+The Count turned fearfully pale at this cruel insult; he uttered a wild
+beast yell, and unsheathed.
+
+The valets, held in check by the two sailors, had not made a movement.
+
+The Duke rushed between the three men, who were ready for the assault.
+
+"Count," he said, coolly, to the younger of his sons, "leave to your
+brother the duty of chastising this man."
+
+"Thanks, father," the elder answered, as he fell on guard, while his
+younger brother lowered the point of his sword, and fell back a pace.
+
+Dona Clara was lying motionless on the floor.
+
+At the first attack the two enemies engaged their swords up to their
+guard, and then, as if of common accord, each retreated a step.
+
+There was something sinister in the appearance of this inn room at the
+moment.
+
+This woman, who lay writhing on the floor, suffering from a horrible
+nervous crisis, and no one dreaming of succouring her.
+
+This old man, with frowning brow, and features contracted by pain,
+witnessing with apparent stoicism this duel between his elder son and
+his son-in-law, while his younger son was biting his lips with fury
+because he could not assist his brother; these sailors, with pistols at
+the breasts of the lackeys, who were palsied with terror; and in the
+centre of the room, scarce lighted by a few smoking candles, these two
+men, sword in hand, watching like two tigers the moment to slay each
+other.
+
+The combat was not long; too great a hatred animated the two
+adversaries for them to lose time in feeling each other's strength.
+The Duke's son, more impatient than the Count, made thrust on thrust,
+which the other had great difficulty in parrying; at length, the young
+man feeling himself too deeply engaged, tried to make a second backward
+step, but his foot slipped on the boards, and he involuntarily raised
+his sword; at the same moment the Count liberated his blade by a
+movement rapid as thought, and his sword entirely disappeared in his
+adversary's chest; then he leaped back to avoid the back thrust, and
+fell on guard again.
+
+But it was all over with the young man; he rolled his haggard eyes
+twice or thrice, stretched out his arms, while letting go his sword,
+and fell his whole length on the floor, without uttering a word.
+
+He was dead.
+
+"Assassin!" his brother screamed, as he rushed sword in hand on the
+Count.
+
+"Traitor!" the latter replied, as he parried the thrust, and sent the
+other's sword flying to the ceiling.
+
+"Stay, stay!" the Duke cried, as he rushed half mad with grief between
+the two men, who had seized each other round the waist, and had both
+drawn their daggers.
+
+But this tardy interference was useless; the Count, who was endowed
+with a far from common strength, had easily succeeded in freeing
+himself from the young man's grasp, and had thrown him on the ground,
+where he held him by placing his knee on his chest.
+
+All at once a mighty rumour of arms and horses was heard in the house,
+and the hurried steps of several men hurrying up the stairs became
+audible.
+
+"Ah!" the Duke exclaimed, with a ferocious joy, "I believe my vengeance
+is at hand, at last!"
+
+The Count, not deigning to reply to his enemy, turned to the sailors.
+
+"Be off, my lads!" he shouted in a voice of thunder.
+
+They hesitated.
+
+"He goes if you wish to save me," he added.
+
+"Boarders away!" Michael yelled, as he dragged away his comrade; and
+the two men seizing their musquetoons by the barrel, as if to use them
+as clubs in case of need, and to clear the way, rushed into the passage
+when they disappeared.
+
+The Count listened anxiously, he heard oaths and the sound of an
+obstinate struggle; then, at the expiration of a moment, a distant cry,
+that summons which sailors know so well, reached him.
+
+Then his face grew calmer, he returned his sword to its sheath and
+coolly awaited the newcomers, muttering to himself--
+
+"They have escaped, one chance is left me."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+THE ARREST.
+
+
+Almost at the same moment ten or twelve men burst into the room rather
+than entered it, the noise that continued outside let it be guessed
+that a great number of others was standing on the stairs and in the
+passages, ready, were it required, to come to the assistance of the
+others.
+
+All these men were armed, and it was easy to recognise them at once as
+guards of the King, or rather of His Eminence the Cardinal.
+
+Only two of them, with crafty looks and squinting eyes, dressed in
+black like ushers, had no visible weapons; these, in all probability
+were more to be feared than the others, for beneath their feline
+obsequiousness they doubtless concealed an implacable will to do evil.
+
+One of these two men held some papers in his right hand, he advanced
+two or three paces, cast a suspicious glance around him, and then took
+off his cap with a courteous bow.
+
+"In the King's name! gentleman," he said in a quick sharp voice.
+
+"What do you want?" the Count de Barmont asked, advancing resolutely
+towards him.
+
+At this movement, which he took for a hostile demonstration, the man
+in black recoiled with an ill-disguised start of terror, but feeling
+himself backed up by his acolytes, he at once resumed his coolness, and
+answered with a smile of evil augury--
+
+"Ah! Ah! The Count Ludovic de Barmont, I believe," he remarked with an
+ironical bow.
+
+"Yes, sir," the gentleman replied haughtily, "I am the Count de
+Barmont."
+
+"Captain in the navy," the man in black imperturbably added, "at
+present, commanding His Majesty's, frigate The Erigone."
+
+"As I told you, sir, I am the person you are in search of," the Count
+added.
+
+"It is really with you that I have to deal, my lord," he replied, as he
+drew himself up. "S'death, my good gentleman, you are not easy to catch
+up; I have been running after you for a week, and was almost despairing
+about having the honour of a meeting."
+
+All this was said with an obsequious air, a honeyed voice, and with a
+sweet smile, sufficient to exasperate a saint, and much more the person
+whom the strange man was addressing, and who was endowed with anything
+but a placable character.
+
+"By Heaven!" he exclaimed, stamping his foot passionately; "Are we to
+have much more of this?"
+
+"Patience, my good sir," he replied in the same placid tone; "patience,
+good Heaven, how quick you are!" then after taking a glance at the
+papers he held in his hand, "Since by your own confession you allow
+yourself to be really Count Ludovic de Barmont, captain commanding His
+Majesty's frigate Erigone, by virtue of the orders I bear, I arrest
+you in the King's name, for the crime of desertion; for having without
+authorization abandoned your vessel in a foreign country, that is to
+say, at the Port of Lisbon, in Portugal." Then raising his head and
+fixing his squinting eyes on the gentleman, he added, "Surrender your
+sword to me, my lord."
+
+M. de Barmont shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.
+
+"The sword of a gentleman of my race shall never be placed in the hands
+of a scoundrel of your stamp," he said, with contempt; and drawing
+his sword, he coldly broke the blade across his knee, and threw the
+fragments through the window panes, which they broke.
+
+Then he drew his pistols from his belt and cocked them.
+
+"Sir, sir!" the myrmidon exclaimed, recoiling in terror, "This is
+rebellion, remember, rebellion against the express orders of His
+Majesty and His Eminence the Cardinal Minister."
+
+The Count smiled disdainfully, and raising his pistols in the air,
+fired them, the bullets being buried in the ceiling; then clasping them
+by the barrel he threw them also out of the window; after which he
+crossed his hands on his chest, and said coolly--
+
+"Now do with me what you please."
+
+"Have you surrendered, my lord?" the fellow asked with ill-disguised
+alarm.
+
+"Yes, from this moment I am your prisoner."
+
+The man in black breathed again; although he was unarmed, the haughty
+gentleman still made him feel uncomfortable.
+
+"Still," the latter added, "allow me to say a couple of words to this
+lady;" and he pointed to Dona Clara, who, waited upon by Dame Tiphaine,
+who had hurried in at the disturbance in spite of her husband's
+entreaties and orders, was beginning to regain her senses.
+
+"No, not a word, not a syllable," the Duke exclaimed, as he threw
+himself between his daughter and the Count; "remove the villain, remove
+him."
+
+But the bailiff, pleased with the facility the Count had displayed in
+surrendering to him, and not wishing to excite his anger, pleased above
+all at being able to show his authority without incurring resistance,
+bravely interposed.
+
+"Pray, sir, allow the gentleman to speak to the lady," he said, "and to
+unburden his heart."
+
+"But this man is an assassin," the Duke shouted violently, "before us
+is still lying the corpse of my unhappy son, killed by him."
+
+"I pity you, sir," the myrmidon said without being at all affected; "I
+cannot offer any remedy for that; and you must make application in the
+proper quarter. Still, if it can be of any comfort to you, be convinced
+that I shall make a careful note of the accusation you bring, and will
+recall it to mind at the right time and place. But you must be equally
+eager to get rid of us, as we are to get away from here: hence allow
+this gentleman to bid farewell to the lady quietly, and I am convinced
+it will not take long."
+
+The Duke darted a ferocious glance at the bailiff; but, not wishing to
+compromise himself with such a fellow, he did not answer, and fell back
+with a gloomy air.
+
+The Count had watched this altercation without displaying either
+impatience or anger; with pale forehead and frowning brow, he waited,
+doubtless ready to break into some terrible extremity if his request
+were not granted.
+
+The bailiff only required to take one look at him to guess what was
+passing in his heart; and, not feeling at all anxious for a fresh
+contest to begin, he had prudently manoeuvred to avoid it.
+
+"Come," he said, "speak, my worthy gentleman, no one will oppose it."
+
+"Thanks," the Count answered hoarsely and approached Dona Clara, who
+watched him advance with an ardent gaze fixed on him.
+
+"Clara," he said to her in a firm and deeply marked voice, "do you love
+me?"
+
+She hesitated for a moment and bowed her head while heaving a profound
+sigh.
+
+"Do you love me?" he repeated.
+
+"I do love you, Ludovic," she replied in a faint and trembling voice.
+
+"Do you love me, as your husband before God and man, as the father of
+your child?"
+
+The young lady rose, her black eyes flashed fire, and stretching out
+her hands before her, she said in a voice choked by emotion--
+
+"In the presence of my father, who is ready to curse me, before the
+body of my dead brother and in the face of the men who are listening to
+me, I swear, Ludovic, that I love you as the father of my child, and
+that I shall remain faithful to you, whatever may happen."
+
+"Very good, Clara," he answered, "God has received your oath and will
+help you to keep it; remember that, whether dead or alive, you belong
+to me as I belong to you, and that no person on earth shall break the
+ties that unite us. Now farewell, and keep your courage."
+
+"Farewell!" she muttered, as she fell back in her chair and buried her
+face in her hands.
+
+"Let us go, gentlemen! Do with me what you please," the Count said as
+he turned to the exempt and the guards, who were involuntarily affected
+by this scene.
+
+The Duke bounded with a tiger leap on his daughter, and seizing
+her right arm with a frenzied gesture, he forced her to raise her
+tear-swollen face to his, and fixing on her a glance loaded with all
+the rage that swelled his heart, he said in a voice which fury rendered
+sibilant--
+
+"Daughter, prepare to marry within two days, the man I destine for you.
+As for your child, you will never see it again; it no longer exists for
+you."
+
+The young lady uttered a cry of despair and fell back deprived of her
+senses in the arms of Dame Tiphaine.
+
+The Count, who at this moment was leaving the room, stopped short and
+turned round to the Duke with his arm stretched out toward him:
+
+"Hangman," he shouted in a hoarse voice which chilled his auditors
+with horror, "I curse you, I swear on my honor as a gentlemen to take
+on you and yours so terrible a vengeance, that the memory of it shall
+remain eternal; and if I cannot reach you, you and the whole nation
+to which you belong shall be buried beneath the implacable weight of
+my hatred. Between us henceforth there is a war of savages and wild
+beasts, without truce or mercy; farewell."
+
+And leaving the proud Spaniard horrified by this fearful anathema, the
+gentleman quitted the room with a firm step, and taking a last loving
+glance at the woman he adored, from whom he was perhaps eternally
+separated.
+
+The passages, stairs, and inn garden were filled with armed men; it was
+evidently a miracle that the two sailors had succeeded in escaping and
+getting away safe and sound; this gave the Count, hope and he went down
+the stairs with an assured step, carefully watched by his escort who
+did not let him out of sight.
+
+The guards had been long before warned that they would have to do
+with a naval officer possessing an inordinate violence of character,
+prodigious vigour and indomitable courage; hence the resignation of the
+prisoner, which they believed to be assumed, only inspired them with
+very slight confidence, and they were continually on the defensive.
+
+When they came out into the garden the chief of the exempts noticed the
+coach, which was still standing at the door.
+
+"Why," he said with a grin and rubbing his hands, "here's the very
+thing we want. In our hurry to get here, we forgot to provide ourselves
+with a coach; be good enough to get in, my lord," he said as he opened
+the door.
+
+The Count got in without any further hesitation; and the exempts then
+addressed the driver who was sitting motionless on his box.
+
+"Come down, scamp," he said in a tone of authority; "I require the use
+of this coach for an affair of state. Give up your place to one of my
+men. Wideawake," he added, turning to a tall impudent looking fellow
+standing by his side, "get up on the box in that man's place--let us be
+off."
+
+The driver did not attempt to resist this peremptory order; he
+descended and his place was immediately taken by Wideawake; the exempt
+then entered the carriage, seated himself facing his prisoner, closed
+the door, and the steeds, aroused by a vigorous, lash, dashed forward
+dragging after them the heavy vehicle round which the twenty odd
+soldiers were collected.
+
+For a considerable period the coach rolled along without a word being
+exchanged between the prisoner and his guard.
+
+The Count was thinking, the exempt sleeping, or, to speak more
+correctly, pretending to sleep.
+
+In the month of March the nights are beginning to shorten; daylight
+soon appeared, and broad white stripes were beginning to cross the sky.
+
+The Count, who up to this moment had remained motionless, gave a slight
+start.
+
+"Are you suffering, my lord?" the exempt inquired. This question was
+addressed to him with an intonation so different from that hitherto
+employed by the man who had made him prisoner; there was in the sound
+of his voice an accent so really gentle and sympathizing, that the
+Count involuntarily started, and took a fixed look at his singular
+companion: but so far as he could see by the faint light of coming
+dawn, the man in front of him still had the same crafty face and the
+same ironical smile stereotyped on his lips. The Count found himself
+in error, and throwing himself back, merely uttered one word, "No," in
+a tone intended to break off any attempt at conversation between his
+guardian and himself.
+
+But the former was probably in a humour for talking, for he would
+not be checked; and pretending not to remark the manner in which his
+advances had been received, he continued--
+
+"The nights are still chill, the breeze enters this coach on all sides,
+and I feared lest the cold had struck you."
+
+"I am habituated to suffer heat and cold," the Count answered;
+"besides, it is probable that if I have not yet made my apprenticeship,
+I am about to undergo one which will accustom me to endure everything
+without complaining."
+
+"Who knows, my lord?" the exempt said, with a shake of the head.
+
+"What?" the other objected, "Am I not condemned to a lengthened
+captivity in a fortress?"
+
+"Yes, according to the terms of the order, which it is my duty to carry
+out."
+
+There was a momentary silence. The Count gazed absently at the country
+which the first beams of day were beginning to illumine. At length he
+turned to the exempt.
+
+"May I ask whither you are taking me?" he said.
+
+"I see no objection to your doing so."
+
+"And you will answer my question?"
+
+"Why not? There is nothing to prevent it."
+
+"Then we are going?"
+
+"To the isles of St. Marguerite, my lord."
+
+The Count trembled inwardly. The islands of Lerins, or Sainte
+Marguerite, enjoyed at that time, even, a reputation almost as terrible
+as the one they acquired at a later date, when they served as a prison
+to the mysterious iron mask, whom it was forbidden to take even a
+glance at under penalty of death.
+
+The exempt looked at him fixedly without speaking.
+
+It was the Count who again resumed the conversation.
+
+"Where are we now?" he asked.
+
+The exempt bent out of the window, and then resumed his seat.
+
+"We are just arriving at Corbeil, where we shall change horses."
+
+"Ah!" said the Count.
+
+"If you wish to rest, I can give orders for an hour's stay. Perhaps you
+feel a want of some refreshment?"
+
+This singular man was gradually acquiring in the Count's eyes all the
+interest of an enigma.
+
+"Very good," he said.
+
+Without replying the exempt let down the window.
+
+"Wideawake!" he shouted.
+
+"What is the matter?" the latter asked.
+
+"Pull up at the Golden Lion."
+
+"All right."
+
+Ten minutes later the coach halted in the Rue St. Spire, in front of a
+door over which creaked a sign representing an enormous gilt cat, with
+one of its paws on a ball. They had arrived.
+
+The exempt got out, followed by the Count, and both entered the inn:
+one portion of the escort remained in the saddle in the street, while
+the others dismounted and installed themselves in the common room.
+
+The Count had mechanically followed the exempt, and on reaching the
+room, seated himself in a chair by the fire, in a first floor decently
+furnished room. He was too busy with his own thoughts to attach any
+great attention to what was going on around him.
+
+When the landlord had left them alone, the exempt bolted the door
+inside, and then placed himself in front of his prisoner.
+
+"Now," he said, "let us speak frankly, my lord."
+
+The latter, astonished at this sudden address, quickly raised his head.
+
+"We have no time to lose in coming to an understanding, sir; so please
+to listen without interrupting me," the exempt continued. "I am
+Francois Bouillot, the younger brother of your foster father. Do you
+recognise me?"
+
+"No," the Count replied, after examining him attentively for a moment.
+
+"That does not surprise me, for you were only eight years old the last
+time I had the honor of seeing you at Barmont Castle: but that is of no
+consequence; I am devoted to you, and wish to save you."
+
+"What assures me that you are really Francois Bouillot, the brother of
+my foster father, and that you are not attempting to deceive me?" the
+Count answered, in a suspicious accent.
+
+The exempt felt in his pocket, pulled out several papers, which he
+unfolded, and presented them open to the Count.
+
+The latter looked at them mechanically: they consisted of a baptismal
+certificate, a commission, and several letters proving his identity.
+The Count handed him the letters back.
+
+"How is it that you should have been the man to arrest me, and arrived
+so opportunely to aid me?" he asked.
+
+"In a very simple way, my lord: your order of arrest was obtained from
+the Cardinal Minister by the Dutch Embassy. I was present when M. de
+Laffemas, a familiar of his Eminence, who is kind to me, left the
+Palais Cardinal order in hand: I was there, and he chose me. Still, as
+I was able to decline, I should have done so, had I not seen your name
+on the paper, and remembered the kindness your family had shown to me
+and my brother. Taking advantage of the opportunity my profession of
+exempt offered me, I resolved to repay you what your friends have done
+for mine, by attempting to save you."
+
+"That does not seem to me very easy, my poor friend."
+
+"More so than you may fancy, my lord: I will leave here one-half our
+escort, and then only ten will remain with us."
+
+"Hum! That is a very decent number," the Count replied, involuntarily
+interested.
+
+"They would be too many if there were not among the ten men seven of
+whom I am certain, which reduces the number of those we have to fear
+to three. I have been running after you for a long time, my lord," he
+added, with a laugh, "and all my precautions are taken: through some
+excuse, easy to be found, we will pass through Toulon, and on arriving
+there, we will stop for an hour or two at a hostelry I know. You will
+disguise yourself as a mendicant monk, and leave the inn unnoticed. I
+will take care to get rid of the guards I am not certain of. You will
+proceed to the port furnished with papers I will hand you; you will go
+on board a charming chasse-maree, called the _Seamew_, which I have
+freighted on your account, and which is waiting for you. The master
+will recognise you by a password I will tell you, and you will be at
+liberty to go whither-soever you please. Is not this plan extremely
+simple, my lord?" he asked, rubbing his hands joyously, "And have I not
+foreseen everything?"
+
+"No, my friend," the Count answered with emotion, as he offered him his
+hand; "there is one more thing you have not foreseen."
+
+"What is that, my lord?" he asked, in surprise.
+
+"That I do not wish to fly," the young man answered, with a melancholy
+shake of the head.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE ISLE OF SAINTE MARGUERITE.
+
+
+At this answer, which he was so far from anticipating, the exempt gave
+a start of surprise, and looked at the Count as if he had not exactly
+understood him.
+
+The gentleman smiled gently.
+
+"That surprises you, does it not?" he said.
+
+"I confess it, my lord," the other stammered, with embarrassment.
+
+The Count went on:
+
+"Yes," he said, "I can understand your surprise at my refusal to accept
+your generous proposition. It is not often you find a prisoner to whom
+liberty is offered, and who insists on remaining a captive. I owe you
+an explanation of this extraordinary conduct; this explanation I will
+give you at once, so that you may no longer press me, but leave me to
+act as I think proper."
+
+"I am only the most humble, of your servants, my lord Count. You
+doubtless know better than I what your conduct should be under the
+circumstances, you have therefore no occasion to explain it to me."
+
+"It is precisely because you are an old servant of my family, Francois
+Bouillot, and because you are giving me at this moment a proof of
+unbounded devotion, that I believe myself obliged to tell you the
+motives for this refusal, which has so many reasons to surprise you.
+Listen to me, then."
+
+"As you insist, my lord, I obey you."
+
+"Very good, take a chair, and place yourself here by my side, as it is
+unnecessary for others beside yourself to hear what I am going to say."
+
+The exempt took a stool and seated himself by his master's side,
+exactly as the latter had ordered, while still keeping up a respectful
+distance between himself and the gentleman.
+
+"In the first place," the Count resumed, "be thoroughly convinced that
+if I refuse your offer, it is not through any motive of a personal
+nature as regards yourself. I have full confidence in you, for nearly
+200 years your family has been attached to mine, and we have ever had
+reason to praise their devotion to our interest. This important point
+being settled, I will go on. I will suppose for a moment that the
+plan you have formed is successful, a plan which I will not discuss,
+although it appears to me very difficult to execute, and the slightest
+accident might, at the last moment, compromise its issue. What will
+happen? Forced to fly without resources, without friends, I should not
+only be unable to take the revenge I meditate upon my enemies, but
+surrendered, so to speak, to their mercy, I should speedily fall into
+their hands again, and thus become the laughing stock of those whom I
+hate. I should be dishonoured; they will despise me, and I shall have
+but one way of escape from a life henceforth rendered useless, as all
+my plans would be overthrown, and that is blowing out my brains."
+
+"Oh! my lord!" Bouillot exclaimed, clasping his hands.
+
+"I do not wish to fall," the Count continued imperturbably, "in the
+terrible struggle which has this day begun between my enemies and
+myself. I have taken an oath, and that oath I will keep, regardless
+of the consequences. I am young, hardly twenty-five years of age; up
+to the present, life has only been one long joy for me, and I have
+succeeded in everything, plans of ambition, fortune and love. Today
+misfortune has come to lay its hand on me, and it is welcome; for the
+man who has not suffered is not a perfect man; grief purifies the mind
+and tempers the heart. Solitude is a good councillor; it makes a man
+comprehend the nothingness of small things, expands the ideas, and
+prepares grand conceptions. I require to steel myself through sorrow,
+in order to be able one day to repay my enemies a hundredfold all
+that I have suffered at their hands. It is by thinking over my broken
+career and my ruined future, that I shall find the necessary strength
+to accomplish my vengeance. When my heart is dead to every other
+feeling but that of the hatred which will entirely occupy it, I shall
+be able pitilessly to trample underfoot all those who today laugh at
+me and believe they have crushed me, because they have hurled me down;
+and then I shall be really a man, and woe to those who try to measure
+their strength with mine. You tremble at what I am saying to you at
+this moment, my old servant," he added more gently, "what would it be
+were you able to read in my heart all the hatred, auger, and rage it
+contains against those who have mercilessly ground me beneath their
+heel, and who have eternally deprived me of happiness, in order to
+satisfy the paltry calculations of a narrow and criminal ambition?"
+
+"Oh, my lord Count! Permit an old servant of your family, a man who is
+entirely devoted to you, to implore you to resign these fearful schemes
+of vengeance. Alas! You will be the first victim of your hatred."
+
+"Have you forgotten, Bouillot," the Count replied ironically, "what is
+said in our country, about the members of the family to which I have
+the honor of belonging?"
+
+"Yes, yes, my lord," he said with a melancholy shake of the head; "I
+remember it, and will repeat it if you wish."
+
+"Do so."
+
+"Well, my lord, the distich is as follows--"
+
+"'The Counts of Barmont Senectaire, Demon-hate and heart of stone.'"
+
+The Count smiled.
+
+"Well do you fancy that I have degenerated from my ancestors?"
+
+"I suppose nothing, sir, Heaven forbid!" he answered humbly, "I only
+see with terror that you are preparing a hideous future for yourself."
+
+"Be it so! I accept it in all its rigor, if God will permit me to
+accomplish my oath."
+
+"Alas! My lord, you know that man proposes; you are at this moment a
+prisoner of the Cardinal; reflect, I implore you, who knows whether
+you will ever leave the prison to which I am conducting you? Consent to
+be free."
+
+"No; cease your entreaties! The Cardinal is not immortal. If not
+before, my liberty will be restored me on his death, which cannot
+be long deferred, I hope. And now carefully bear this in mind, my
+resolution is so fixed, that if in spite of my orders you abandon me
+here, at the inn where we now are, the first use I should make of the
+liberty you have given me back, would be to go at once and surrender
+myself into the hands of his Eminence; you understand me thoroughly, I
+suppose?"
+
+The old servant bowed his head without answering, and two tears slowly
+ran down his cheeks.
+
+This dumb grief, so true and so touching, affected the Count more than
+he would have supposed; he rose, took the poor fellow's hand and shook
+it several times.
+
+"Let us say no more about this, Bouillot," he remarked to him
+affectionately, "although I will not profit by it, your devotion has
+deeply affected me, and I will ever feel eternally grateful to you for
+it. Come, my old friend, let us not grow foolish; we are men and not
+childish poltroons, confound it."
+
+"Well, no matter, my lord, I do not consider myself beaten," the exempt
+replied, as he threw himself into the arms open to receive him; "you
+cannot prevent me from watching over you, whether near or afar."
+
+"That I do not oppose, my friend," the Count replied with a laugh; "do
+as you please; besides," he added seriously, "I confess that I shall
+not be sorry when I am sequestered from the world to know what is going
+on, and to be kept informed, of passing events; some unforeseen fact
+might occur which would modify my intentions and make me desire the
+recovery of my liberty."
+
+"Oh, be sure of that, my lord," he exclaimed, pleased at this quasi
+victory and conditional promise, "I will arrange so that you shall not
+be at a loss for news; I have not served his Eminence for six years
+for nothing; the Cardinal is a good master, I have profited by his
+teaching, and know several tricks; you shall see me at work."
+
+"Well, that is agreed, and we understand each other now. I think it
+would be wise to breakfast before continuing our journey, for I feel an
+appetite that greatly requires appeasing."
+
+"I will give the landlord orders to serve you at once, my lord."
+
+"You will breakfast with me, Bouillot," he said as he gave him a
+friendly tap on the shoulder; "and I hope it will be always so, until
+our arrival at the Isle of St. Marguerite."
+
+"It is certainly a great honour for me, sir, but--"
+
+"I expect it; besides are you not almost a member of my family?"
+
+Francois Bouillot bowed and left the room; after ordering a copious
+breakfast, he commanded one part of the escort back to Paris; then
+he returned to the room, followed by the landlord, who, in a second,
+covered the table with all that was wanted to make a good meal, and
+withdrew discreetly, leaving his guests to attack the dishes placed
+before them.
+
+The journey was continued without any incident worthy of note.
+
+The prisoner's conversation with his keeper had been decisive; the
+latter was too well acquainted with the character of the man with whom
+he had to deal to attempt to revert to a subject which had been so
+distinctly disposed of on the first occasion.
+
+At the period when our history takes place, France was not as now
+intersected by magnificent roads, and the shortest journey demanded
+an enormous expenditure of time; the coaches, heavy vehicles badly
+built and worse horsed, had great difficulty in resisting the numerous
+joltings and the ruts in which they were for the greater portion of
+the time buried up to the axletree, and hence, in spite of the speed
+employed, seventeen days elapsed ere the prisoner and his escort
+arrived at Toulon.
+
+This town was even at that early period one of the principal military
+ports of France, and the Count felt an indescribable pang at heart when
+he entered it.
+
+It was in this town that his naval career had begun, here for the first
+time he had set foot aboard a vessel with the rank of midshipman, and
+had undergone the preparatory trials of that rude naval profession, in
+which, in spite of his youth, he soon attained a great reputation and
+almost celebrity.
+
+The coach stopped in the Haymarket, in front of the "Cross of Malta,"
+probably the oldest inn in France, for it is still in existence,
+although it has undergone many indispensable changes both internally
+and externally.
+
+So soon as he had installed his prisoner comfortably in the Inn,
+Francois Bouillot went out.
+
+If he placed a sentry before the Count's door, it was rather in
+obedience to his duty, than through any fear of escape, for he had not
+even taken the trouble to lock the door, so convinced was he beforehand
+that unfortunately his prisoner would not attempt to pass out of it.
+
+He remained away for about two hours.
+
+"You have been absent a long time," the Count remarked on his return.
+
+"I had some important business to settle," he replied.
+
+The Count, without adding a word, resumed his walk up and down the room
+which Bouillot's return had interrupted.
+
+There was a momentary silence, Bouillot was evidently embarrassed,
+he went about the room, pretending to arrange sundry articles of
+furniture, and disarranging everything; at last seeing that the Count
+obstinately remained silent and would not perceive that he was in the
+room, he placed himself in front of him so as to bar his passage, and
+looked at him intently as he whispered with a stress on the words.
+
+"You do not ask where I have been."
+
+"What is the use?" the Count replied carelessly; "About your own
+business, of course."
+
+"No, my lord, about yours."
+
+"Ah!" he said.
+
+"Yes, the _Seamew_ awaits you."
+
+The Count smiled and slightly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Ah, ah, you are still thinking of that; I believed, my dear Bouillot,
+that it was arranged between us that we should not return to this
+subject. That was the reason, then, that you lengthened our journey, by
+making us pass through Toulon, at which I felt surprised. I could not
+account for the strange itinerary you were following."
+
+"My lord," he muttered, clasping his hands imploringly.
+
+"Come, you are mad, my dear Bouillot, you ought to know by this time,
+though, that when I have formed a resolution, good or bad, I never
+alter it; so no more of this, I beg, it would be quite useless. I
+pledge you my word as a gentleman."
+
+The old servant uttered a groan that resembled a death rattle.
+
+"Your will be done, my lord," he stammered. "When do we start for
+Antibes?"
+
+"At once, if you wish it."
+
+"Very good, the sooner the better."
+
+After bowing, the exempt left the room to make all preparations for
+departure.
+
+As we see, the parts were completely introverted, it was the prisoner
+who gave orders to his keeper.
+
+One hour later, in fact, the Count quitted Toulon. All along the road
+the two men, constantly companions, and eating and drinking together,
+conversed about indifferent matters. Bouillot had at last recognized
+the fact that it was useless to make any further effort to induce the
+Count to escape; still he had not given up his scheme, but merely
+deferred it till a more distant period, reckoning as an ally the
+annoyance of a prolonged detention, and an inactive and useless life
+upon an organization so impetuous as that of the prisoner.
+
+So soon as he arrived at Antibes, by the express command of the Count,
+who seemed to take a certain pleasure in tormenting him, he set out in
+search of some boat to carry them across to Sainte Marguerite.
+
+His search was neither long nor difficult; as bearer of a Cardinal's
+order, he laid an embargo on the first fishing boat he came across,
+and embarked aboard it with all his people.
+
+On leaving the mainland, the Count turned, and a smile of peculiar
+meaning played round his lips.
+
+Bouillot, deceived by this smile, whose secret intention he did not
+penetrate, bent down to the Count's ear.
+
+"If you like, there is still time," he whispered.
+
+The Count looked at him, shrugged his shoulders, and without replying,
+sat down in the stern of the boat.
+
+"Push off," Bouillot then shouted to the master.
+
+The latter seized his boathook, and they were soon under weigh.
+
+The Lerins islands form a group composed of several rocks, and
+two islands surrounded by shoals; the first known as Isle Sainte
+Marguerite, the second as Saint Honorat.
+
+At the period of our narration only the first was fortified; the other,
+inhabited by a few fishermen, merely contained the still considerable
+ruins of the monastery founded by Saint Honorat circa the year 400.
+
+The Sainte Marguerite island was uninhabited, flat, and only offering
+along its entire coast, one very unsafe creek for vessels. Although
+it is extremely fertile, and pomegranates, orange and fig trees, grow
+there in the open air, no one had thought of taking up his abode there,
+and we are not aware whether a change has since taken place.
+
+A very important fortress, which, at a later date, attained a
+melancholy reputation as a state prison, was erected on the island, the
+greater portion of which it occupied.
+
+This fort was composed of three towers, connected together by terraces,
+which time had covered with a yellowish moss, while a wide deep moat
+surrounded the walls.
+
+A few years prior to the beginning of our story, in 1635, the Spaniards
+had seized it by surprise.
+
+The Cardinal, in order to prevent the repetition of such a calamity,
+had judged it advisable to protect the fort from a _coup de main_, by
+placing there a garrison of fifty picked soldiers, commanded by a major
+performing the duties of governor. He was an old officer of fortune,
+whom this post served as a retreat, and who, far from the cares of the
+world, led a perfect canonical life, thanks to a tacit understanding
+with the smugglers, who alone cast anchor in these parts.
+
+The officer who commanded the fort at this moment was an old gentleman,
+tall, thin, and wizened, with harsh features, who had had a leg and
+arm cut off. His name was Monsieur de l'Oursiere; he was constantly
+scolding and abusing his subordinates, and the day when he left the
+Crown regiment, in which he held the rank of major, was kept as a
+holiday by the whole regiment, officers and men; so cordially was the
+worthy man detested.
+
+Cardinal de Richelieu was a good judge of men; in selecting Major de
+l'Oursiere to make him governor of Sainte Marguerite, and metamorphose
+him into a gaoler, he had found the exact post which suited his
+quarrelsome temper, and his cruel instincts.
+
+It was on this amiable personage that the Count de Barmont would
+have to be dependant for doubtless a considerable period; for, if
+the Cardinal Minister easily shut the gate of a state prison on a
+gentleman, to make up for it, he was never in a hurry to open it again,
+and a prisoner, unless something extraordinary occurred, was almost
+safe to die forgotten in his dungeon, except when his Eminence had a
+whim to have his head cut off in broad daylight.
+
+After a number of countersigns had been exchanged with a profuseness
+of caution which bore witness to the good guard and strict discipline
+maintained by the governor, the prisoner and his escort were at length
+introduced into the fortress, and admitted to the Major's presence.
+
+The Major was just finishing his breakfast, when a Cardinal's messenger
+was announced to him: he buttoned his uniform, put on his sword and
+hat, and ordered the messenger to be shown in.
+
+Francois Bouillot entered, followed by the Count, bowed, and presented
+the order of which he was the bearer.
+
+The governor took it, and read it through; then he turned to the Count,
+who was standing motionless a few paces in the rear, made him a slight
+bow, and addressed him in a dry voice, and with a rough accent.
+
+"Your servant, sir," he said to him: "are you the Count de Barmont,
+whose name is written on this paper?"
+
+"Yes, sir," the Count answered, bowing in his turn.
+
+"I am sorry, sir, truly sorry," the Major resumed; "but I have strict
+orders with reference to you, and a soldier only knows his duty; still,
+believe me, sir, hum, hum, that I shall try to reconcile my natural
+humanity with the rigour that is recommended to me, hum, hum, I know
+how gentlemen ought to behave to each other, sir; be assured of that."
+
+And the governor, doubtless satisfied at the speech he had just
+uttered, smiled, and drew himself gracefully up.
+
+The Count bowed, but made no answer.
+
+"You shall be conducted to your apartment at once, sir," the Major went
+on; "hum, hum! I wish it was handsomer, but I did not expect you; hum,
+hum, and you know how things are--hum, hum, we will manage to lodge
+you more comfortably hereafter; la Berloque," he added, turning to a
+soldier standing near the door, "conduct this gentleman, hum, hum, to
+room No. 8, in the second turret; hum, hum, I believe it is the most
+habitable one; your servant, sir, your servant, hum, hum!"
+
+And after having thus unceremoniously dismissed the Count, the Major
+went into another room.
+
+M. de Barmont, accompanied by Bouillot and the guards, who had brought
+him, followed the soldier.
+
+The latter led them through several passages, and up various stairs,
+and then stopped before a door, garnished with formidable bolts.
+
+"It is here," he said.
+
+The Count then turned to Bouillot, and affectionately offered him his
+hand.
+
+"Farewell, my old friend," he said to him in a gentle but firm voice,
+while a vague smile played round his lips.
+
+"Farewell, till we meet again," Bouillot said, with a stress on the
+words. Then he took leave of him, and withdrew, with his eyes full of
+tears.
+
+The door closed with a mournful sound on the prisoner.
+
+"Oh!" the old servant muttered, as he pensively went down the turret
+stairs, "Woe to those who venture to oppose the Count, if ever he
+leaves his prison again! And he shall do so, I swear it, even if I must
+risk my life in securing his escape."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+A BACKWARD GLANCE.
+
+
+The family of the Count de Barmont Senectaire was one of the most
+ancient and noble in Languedoc; their origin went back to an antiquity
+so remote, that we may declare without fear of contradiction that it
+was lost in the mist of ages.
+
+A Barmont Senectaire fought at Bouvines by the side of Philip Augustus.
+
+The chronicle of Joinville mentions a Barmont Senectaire, knight
+banneret, who died of the plague at Tunis, in 1270, during the second
+crusade of King Louis IX.
+
+Francis I. on the evening of the battle of Marignano, gave the rank of
+Count on the battlefield itself to Euguerrand de Barmont Senectaire,
+captain of one hundred men at arms, to reward him for his grand conduct
+and the sturdy blows he had seen him deal during the whole period of
+that combat of giants.
+
+Few noble families have such splendid title deeds among their archives.
+
+The Counts de Barmont were always military nobles, and they gave France
+several celebrated generals.
+
+But in the course of time, the power and fortune of this family
+gradually diminished: during the reign of Henri III. it was reduced to
+a condition bordering on poverty. Still, justly proud of a stainless
+past, they continued to carry their heads high in the province, and if
+the Count de Barmont endured hard privations in order to support his
+name worthily, nothing of this was visible externally, and everybody
+was ignorant of the fact.
+
+The Count had attached himself to the fortunes of the King of Navarre
+as much through the hope of regaining a position through the war,
+as through admiration of this prince, whose genius he had probably
+divined. A brave soldier, but young, impetuous, and handsome, the
+Count had several affairs of gallantry. One among others with a lady
+of the Town of Cahors, affianced to a very rich Spanish noble, whom he
+succeeded in carrying off on the very day before that appointed for the
+marriage. The Spaniard, who was very strict in matters affecting his
+honour, considered this joke in bad taste, and demanded satisfaction
+of the Count; the latter gave him two sword thrusts, and left him
+dead on the ground. This affair attracted great attention, and gained
+the Count much honor among people of refinement; but the Spaniard,
+contrary to expectation, recovered from his wounds. The two gentlemen
+fought again, and this time the Count so ill treated his adversary
+that the latter was constrained to give up all thoughts of a new
+meeting. This adventure disgusted the Count with gallantry, not that he
+personally feared the results of the hatred which the Duke of Penaflor
+had sworn against him, for he never heard of him again, but because
+his conscience reproached him with having, for the satisfaction of a
+caprice which passed away so soon as it was satisfied, destroyed the
+happiness of an honourable man, and he felt remorse for his conduct in
+the affair.
+
+After bravely fighting by the side of the King during all his wars,
+the Count finally retired to his estates, about the year 1610, after
+the death of that Prince, disgusted with the Court, and feeling the
+necessity of repose after such an amount of fatigue.
+
+Here, four or five years later, wearied with the solitude in which
+he lived, and, perhaps, in the hope of expelling from his mind a
+troublesome recollection, which, in spite of the time that had elapsed,
+did not cease to torture him, the Count resolved to marry, and selected
+for his wife a young lady belonging to one of the best families in
+the province--charming and gentle, but as poor as himself; this
+circumstance was far from bringing ease into the family, whose position
+daily became more difficult.
+
+The union, however, was a happy one; in 1616 the Countess was delivered
+of a son, who at once became the joy of the poor household.
+
+This son was Count Ludovic, whose story we have undertaken to tell.
+
+In spite of his fondness for the boy, the Count, however, brought him
+up strictly, wishing to make of him a rude, brave, and loyal gentleman,
+like himself.
+
+Young Ludovic felt at an early hour, on discovering what misery was
+concealed behind the apparent splendour of his family, the necessity
+of creating for himself an independent position, which would allow him
+not only to be no longer a burden to parents whom he loved, and who
+sacrificed to him the greater portion of their income, but to restore
+also the eclipsed lustre of the name he bore.
+
+Contrary to the custom followed by his ancestors, who had all served
+the king or his armies, his tastes led him to the navy.
+
+Owing to the assiduous care of an old and worthy priest, who had
+become his tutor through attachment to his family, he had received a
+solid education, by which he had profited; accounts of voyages, which
+constituted his principal reading, inflamed his imagination; all his
+thoughts were turned to America, where, according to the statements of
+sailors, gold abounded, and he had but one desire--to land himself
+in this mysterious country, and take his part of the rich crop which
+everybody garnered there.
+
+His father, and his mother even more, for a long time resisted his
+entreaties. The old man, who had fought during so many years, could not
+understand why his son should not do the same, or prefer the navy to a
+commission in the army. The Countess, in her heart, did not wish to see
+her son either soldier or sailor, for both professions terrified her;
+she feared for her son the unknown perils of distant excursions, and
+her tenderness was alarmed by the thought of what might be an eternal
+separation.
+
+Still, something must be done, and as the young man obstinately adhered
+to his resolution, his parents were compelled to yield and consent to
+what he desired, whatever might be the future consequences of this
+determination.
+
+The Count still had some old friends at Court, among them being the
+Duke de Bellegarde, who stood on terms of great intimacy with King
+Louis XIII., surnamed the "_Just_" during his lifetime, because he was
+born under the sign of Libra.
+
+Monsieur de Barmont had also been connected at an earlier date with
+the Duke d'Epernon, created Admiral of France in 1587; but he had a
+repugnance in applying to him, owing to the rumours that were spread
+at the time of the assassination of Henri IV. Still, in a case so
+urgent as the present one, the Count comprehended that for the sake of
+his son he must silence his private feelings, and at the same time as
+he addressed a letter to the Duke de Bellegarde, he sent another to
+Epernon, who at this period was Governor of Guyenne.
+
+The double answer the Count expected was not long deferred; M. de
+Barmont's two old friends had not forgotten him, and hastened to employ
+their credit on his behalf.
+
+The Duke d'Epernon especially, better situated through his title of
+Admiral to be useful to the young man, wrote that he would gladly
+undertake the duty of pushing him on in the world.
+
+This took place at the beginning of 1631, when Ludovic de Barmont had
+reached his sixteenth year.
+
+Being very tall, with a proud and haughty air, and endowed with rare
+vigour and great agility, the young man seemed older than he in reality
+was. It was with the liveliest joy that he learned how his wishes
+had been fulfilled, and that nothing prevented him from embracing a
+maritime career.
+
+The Duke d'Epernon's letter requested the Count de Barmont to send his
+son as speedily as possible to Bordeaux, so that he might at once place
+him aboard a man-of-war, to commence his apprenticeship.
+
+Two days after the receipt of this letter the young man tore himself
+with difficulty from the embraces of his mother, bade his father a
+respectful farewell, and took the road to Bordeaux, mounted on a good
+horse, and followed by a confidential valet.
+
+The navy had for a long time been neglected in France; and left during
+the middle ages in the hands of private persons, as the government,
+following the example of the other continental powers, did not deign
+to try and secure a respectable position on the seas, much less a
+supremacy; thus we see during the reign of Francis I., who was,
+however, one of the warlike Kings of France, Ango, a ship broker of
+Dieppe, from whom the Portuguese had taken a vessel during a profound
+peace, authorized by the King, who was unable to procure him justice,
+to equip a fleet at his own expense. With this fleet Ango, we may
+remark incidentally, blockaded the port of Lisbon, and did not cease
+hostilities until he had forced the Portuguese to send to France
+ambassadors humbly to ask peace of the King.
+
+The discovery of the New World, however, and the no less important one
+of the Cape of Good Hope, by giving navigation a greater activity and
+a more extended sphere, at the same time as they widened the limits of
+commerce, caused the necessity to be felt of creating a navy, intended
+to protect merchant vessels against the attacks of corsairs.
+
+It was not till the reign of Louis XIII. that the idea of creating a
+navy began to be carried into execution. Cardinal de Richelieu, whose
+vast genius embraced everything, and whom the English fleets had
+caused several times to tremble during the long and wearying siege of
+Rochelle, passed several decrees relating to the navy, and founded a
+school of navigation, intended to educate those young gentlemen who
+desired to serve the King aboard his vessels.
+
+It is to this great minister, then, that France is indebted for the
+first thought of a navy; this navy was destined to contend against
+the Spanish and Dutch fleets, and during the reign of Louis XIV., to
+acquire so great an importance, and momentarily hold in check the power
+of England.
+
+It was this school of navigation created by Richelieu that the Viscount
+de Barmont entered, thanks to the influence of the Duke d'Epernon.
+
+The old gentleman strictly kept the pledge he had given his former
+comrade in arms; he did not cease to protect the young man, which,
+however, was an easy task, for the latter displayed an extraordinary
+aptitude, and a talent very rare at that date in the profession he had
+embraced.
+
+Hence, in 1641, he was already a captain in the navy, and had the
+command of a twenty-six gun frigate.
+
+Unfortunately, neither the old Count de Barmont nor his wife was able
+to enjoy the success of their son or the new era opening for their
+house; they both died a few days apart from each other, leaving the
+young man an orphan at the age of two-and-twenty.
+
+As a pious son, Ludovic, who really loved his parents, lamented and
+regretted them, especially his mother, who had always been so kind and
+tender to him; but, as he had been accustomed for so many years to live
+alone during his long voyages, and only to trust to himself, he did not
+feel the loss so painfully as he would have done had he never left the
+paternal roof.
+
+Henceforth the sole representative of his house, he regarded life more
+seriously than he had hitherto done, and redoubled his efforts to
+restore to his name its almost eclipsed lustre, which, thanks to his
+exertions, was beginning to shine again with renewed brilliancy.
+
+The Duke d'Epernon still lived, but a forgotten relic of an almost
+entirely departed generation--a sickly octogenarian, who had quarrelled
+long ago with Cardinal de Richelieu, his influence was null, and he
+could do nothing for the man he had so warmly protected a few years
+previously.
+
+But the Count did not allow this to prey on his mind; the naval
+service was not envied by the nobility, good officers were rare, and
+he believed that if he cautiously avoided mixing himself up in any
+political intrigue, he might have a brilliant career.
+
+An accident, impossible to foresee, was fated to destroy all his
+ambitious plans, and ruin his career forever.
+
+This is how the affair occurred:--The Count de Barmont, at the time
+commanding the Erigone, twenty-six gun frigate, after a lengthened
+cruise in the Algerian waters to protect French merchant vessels
+against the Barbary pirates, steered for the states of Gibraltar, in
+order to reach the Atlantic, and return to Brest, whither he had orders
+to proceed at the end of his cruise; but just as he was about to pass
+through the Straits, he was caught by a squall, and after extraordinary
+efforts to continue his course, which almost cast him on to the coast
+of Africa, owing to the strength of the wind and the rough, chopping
+sea, he was obliged to stand off and on for several hours, and finally
+take refuge in the port of Algeciras, which was to windward of him, on
+the Spanish coast.
+
+So soon as he had anchored, and made all snug, the commandant, who
+knew from experience that two or three days would elapse ere the wind
+veered, and allowed him to pass the Straits, ordered his boat, and went
+ashore.
+
+Although the town of Algeciras is very old, it is very small, badly
+built, and scantily populated; at this period, more especially, it
+only formed, as it were, a poor market town. It was not till after the
+English had seized Gibraltar, situated on the other side of the bay,
+that the Spaniards comprehended the importance of Algeciras to them,
+and have converted it into a regular port.
+
+The Captain had no other motive for landing at Algeciras, than the
+restlessness natural to sailors, which impels them to leave their
+vessel as soon as they have cast anchor.
+
+Commercial relations were not established at that time, as they now
+are. The government had not yet fallen into the custom of sending to
+foreign ports residents ordered to watch over their countrymen, and
+protect their transactions--in a word, consulates had not yet been
+created: only those ships of war, which accident might lead to any
+port, now and then undertook to procure justice for those of their
+countrymen, whose interests had been encroached on.
+
+After landing, and giving orders to his coxswain to come and fetch
+him at sunset, the Captain, merely followed by a sailor, of the name
+of Michael, to whom he was greatly attached, and who accompanied him
+everywhere, turned into the winding streets of Algeciras, curiously
+examining everything that offered itself to view.
+
+This Michael, to whom we shall have several occasions to refer, was a
+tall fellow, with an intelligent face, about thirty years of age, and
+who had vowed an eternal devotion to his captain since the day when the
+latter had risked his life in saving his, by jumping into a boat during
+a terrible storm four years before, to help him when he had fallen into
+the sea while going up the shrouds to ease the mainsail.
+
+Since that day Michael had never left the Count, and had always
+contrived to sail with him. Born in the vicinity of Pau, the country of
+Henri IV., he was like the king, his fellow countryman, gay, mocking,
+and even sceptical. An excellent sailor, endowed with tried bravery,
+and far from ordinary vigour, Michael offered in his person the
+perfect type of the Bearnaise Basque, a strong and rough, though loyal
+and faithful race.
+
+Only one individual shared in Michael's heart the unbounded friendship
+he felt for his chief. This privileged being was a Breton sailor,
+gloomy and taciturn, who formed a complete antithesis to him, and whom,
+owing to his slowness, the crew had favoured with the characteristic
+name of Bowline, which he had accepted, and was so accustomed to answer
+to it, that he had almost forgotten the name he previously bore.
+
+The service the Count had done Michael, the latter had rendered to
+Bowline: hence he was attached to the Breton through this very service,
+and while mocking and teasing him from morning till night, he had a
+sincere friendship for him.
+
+The Breton understood Michael, and so far as his reserved and slightly
+demonstrative nature permitted, he testified on every occasion his
+gratitude to the Basque, by letting himself be completely directed and
+governed by him in all the actions of his life, without ever attempting
+to revolt against the frequent exorbitant demands of his mentor.
+
+If we have dwelt so long on the character of these two men, it is
+because they are destined in the course of this work to play an
+important part; and the reader must be acquainted with them, in order
+to understand the facts we shall have to record.
+
+The Count and his sailor continued to advance along the streets,
+the one reflecting and amusing himself the other remaining, through
+respect, a few paces in the rear, and desperately smoking a pipe, whose
+stem was so short that the bowl almost touched his lips.
+
+While walking thus straight before them, the promenaders soon reached
+the end of the town, and turned into a lane bordered by aloes, which
+led, with a rather steep incline, to the top of a hill, whence could
+be enjoyed the entire panorama of the bay of Algeciras, which, we may
+remark in a parenthesis, is the finest in the world.
+
+It was about two in the afternoon, the hottest moment of the day. The
+sun profusely poured down its torrid beams, which made the pebbles in
+the road sparkle like diamonds.
+
+Hence everybody had gone within doors to enjoy the siesta, so that,
+since landing, the two sailors had not met a living creature; and if
+the Arabian Nights, which were not translated till a century later,
+had been known at the time, the Count, without any great effort of the
+imagination, might have believed himself transported to that city where
+all the inhabitants had been sent to sleep by a wicked impostor, so
+complete was the silence around him, while the landscape had the aspect
+of a desert. To complete the illusion, the breeze had fallen, there was
+not a breath of air, and the vast expanse of water stretched out at
+their feet was as motionless as if composed of ice.
+
+The Count stopped, pensively gazing with an absent eye at his frigate,
+which at this distance was scarce as large as a skiff.
+
+Michael smoked more than ever, and admired the country with straddling
+legs, and his arm behind his back, in that position so liked by sailors.
+
+"Hilloh!" he said suddenly.
+
+"What is the matter with you?" the Count asked him, as he turned round.
+
+"Nothing the matter with me, Captain," he replied, "I am only looking
+at a lady who is coming up here at a gallop. What a fancy to go at
+that pace in such a heat as this."
+
+"Where is she?" asked the Count.
+
+"Why, there, Captain," he said, stretching out his hand to larboard.
+
+The Count turned his eyes in the direction which Michael indicated to
+him.
+
+"Why, that horse has bolted," he exclaimed, a moment later.
+
+"Do you think so, Captain?" the sailor remarked, calmly.
+
+"Zounds! I am certain of it. Look, now that she is nearer to us. The
+rider is clinging despairingly to the mane. The unhappy girl is lost!"
+
+"Very possibly," Michael said, philosophically.
+
+"Quick, quick, my lad!" the Captain shouted, as he rushed to the side
+where the horse was coming up. "We must save the lady, even if we
+perish!"
+
+The sailor made no answer; he merely took the precaution of withdrawing
+his pipe from his mouth and placing it in his pocket, and then he set
+out at a run behind his captain.
+
+The horse came on like a whirlwind. It was a barb of the purest
+Arab race, with a small head, and legs fine as spindles. It bounded
+furiously with all four legs on the narrow path it was following, with
+eyes full of flashes, and apparently snorting fire through its dilated
+nostrils. The lady on its back, half reclining on its neck, had seized
+its long mane with both hands, and, half insane with terror, as she
+felt herself lost, she uttered stifled cries at intervals.
+
+Very far in the rear, several horsemen, who formed almost imperceptible
+dots on the horizon, were coming up at full speed.
+
+The track on which the horse was engaged, was narrow and rocky, and led
+to a precipice of frightful depth, toward which the animal was dashing
+with a headlong speed.
+
+A man must either be mad, or endowed with a lion's courage, to try and
+save this unhappy woman under such conditions, when he had ninety-nine
+chances in a hundred of being crushed, without succeeding in rescuing
+her from death.
+
+The two sailors, however, made no reflections of this nature, and
+without hesitation resolved to make a supreme effort. They stood facing
+each other on either side of the track, and waited without exchanging a
+word. They understood one another.
+
+Two or three minutes elapsed, and then the horse passed like a tornado;
+but with the speed of thought the two men dashed forward, seized it by
+the bridle, and, hanging their whole weight on it, allowed themselves
+to be dragged onward by the furious animal.
+
+There was for a moment a terrible struggle between intelligence and
+brute strength. At length the brute was conquered. The horse stumbled,
+and fell panting on the ground.
+
+At the moment of its fall, the Count removed in his arms, the lady so
+miraculously saved, and he bore her to the side of the road, where he
+respectfully laid her down.
+
+Terror had certainly deprived her of consciousness.
+
+The Count guessing that the horsemen coming up, were relations or
+friends of her to whom he had just rendered so great a service,
+repaired the disorder in his clothes and awaited their arrival, while
+gazing admiringly at the young lady lying at his feet.
+
+She was a charming young creature, scarce seventeen years of age, with
+a delicate waist, and marked and adorably beautiful features; her long
+black silky hair had escaped from the comb that confined it and fell in
+perfumed curls over her face, on which a slight flush presaged a speedy
+return to life.
+
+The young lady's dress, which was very rich and remarkably elegant,
+would have led to the supposition that she was of high rank, had not
+the stamp of aristocracy, spread over her entire person, removed all
+doubts on that score.
+
+Michael, with his characteristic coolness which nothing ever upset,
+had remained by the side of the horse which, calmed by the fall and
+trembling in all its limbs, had allowed itself to be raised without
+offering the slightest resistance; the Basque after removing the
+saddle, had plucked a wisp of grass, and began rubbing the horse down,
+while admiring it, and muttering every now and then.
+
+"I don't care, it's a noble and beautiful animal! It would have been
+a pity had it rolled over that frightful precipice; I am glad it is
+saved."
+
+The worthy sailor did not think the least bit in the world of the young
+lady, for his entire interest was concentrated on the horse.
+
+When he had finished rubbing down, he put the saddle and bridle on
+again and led the horse up to the Count.
+
+"There," he said with an air of satisfaction, "now the horse is calm;
+poor creature, a child could guide it with a thread."
+
+In the meanwhile the horsemen rapidly approached, and soon came up to
+the two French sailors.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.
+
+
+These horsemen were four in number. Two of them appeared to be persons
+of importance, the other two were domestics.
+
+On coming within a few steps of the Count, the first two dismounted,
+threw their bridles to the footman and advanced, hat in hand, towards
+the gentleman, whom they saluted with exquisite politeness.
+
+The Count courteously returned their greeting, while taking a
+side-glance at them.
+
+The first was a man of about sixty; he was tall, his demeanour was
+graceful and his face appeared handsome at the first glance, for the
+expression was imposing, although gentle and even kind. Still, on
+examining it with greater attention, it was possible to see from the
+gloomy fire of his glance, which seemed at times to emit magnetic
+flashes, that this gentleness was merely a mask intended to deceive the
+vulgar; his projecting cheek bones, his wide retiring forehead, his
+nose bent like a bird's beak and his square chin denoted a cold cruelty
+blended with a strong dose of obstinacy and pride.
+
+This man wore a handsome hunting dress covered with lace, and a heavy
+gold chain, called a _fanfaronne_, was passed several times round his
+ostrich plumed hat.
+
+This fanfaronne had been brought into fashion by the adventurers who
+returned from New Spain; and though very ridiculous, it had been
+enthusiastically adopted by the haughty Castilians.
+
+This gentleman's companion, much younger than he, but dressed quite
+as richly, had one of those faces whose features at the first glance
+appear so commonplace and insignificant, that you do not take the
+trouble of looking at them, and an observer might pass close by without
+seeing them, but his small grey eyes sparkling with cleverness, half
+hidden under bushy eyebrows, and the curl of his thin sarcastic lip,
+would have completely contradicted any physiognomist, who might take
+this person for a man of common intellect and ordinary capacity.
+
+The elder of the two riders bowed a second time.
+
+"Sir," he said, "I am the Duc de Penaflor; the person whose life you
+have saved by running such a risk of losing your own, is my daughter,
+Dona Clara de Penaflor."
+
+As the Count came from Languedoc, he spoke Spanish as purely as his
+mother tongue.
+
+"I am delighted, sir," he replied with a graceful bow, "at having
+served as the instrument of providence to preserve a child for her
+father."
+
+"I think," the second rider observed, "that it would be as well to
+offer Dona Clara some succour; my dear cousin seems to be seriously
+indisposed."
+
+"It is only emotion," the young man replied; "that caused this fainting
+fit, which, if I am not mistaken, is beginning to wear off."
+
+"Yes indeed," said the Duke, "I think I saw her make a slight movement,
+it will be better not to trouble her, but let her regain her senses
+quietly; in that way, we shall avoid a shock whose results are
+sometimes very dangerous to delicate and nervous organisations, like
+that of my dear child."
+
+All this was spoken with a cold, dry, steady voice, very different
+to what a father ought to have employed, whose daughter had just
+miraculously escaped death.
+
+The young officer did not know what to think of his real or feigned
+indifference.
+
+It was only Spanish hauteur. The Duke loved his daughter as much as his
+proud and ambitious nature allowed him to do, but he would have been
+ashamed to let it be seen, especially by a stranger.
+
+"Sir," the Duke resumed a moment later, as he stepped aside to display
+the gentlemen who accompanied him, "I have the honour of presenting to
+you my cousin and friend, Count Don Stenio de Bejar y Sousa."
+
+The two gentlemen bowed to each other.
+
+The Count had no motive to maintain an incognito, and saw that the
+moment had arrived to make himself known.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, "I am Count Ludovic de Barmont Senectaire,
+Captain in the Navy, and commanding the French frigate the _Erigone_,
+now anchored in Algeciras Bay."
+
+On hearing the Count's name pronounced, the Duke's face turned
+frightfully pale; he frowned till his eyebrows joined, and he gave him
+a strangely meaning glance.
+
+But this emotion did not last longer than a flash: by a violent effort
+of the will the Spaniard thrust back to the bottom of his heart, the
+feelings that agitated him; his previous impassiveness returned to his
+face, and he bowed with a smile.
+
+The ice was broken between the three gentlemen, for they saw they were
+equals; their manner at once changed, and they became as affable as
+they had at first been stiff and reserved.
+
+The Duke was the first to renew the conversation in the most friendly
+voice.
+
+"You are doubtless taking advantage of the truce made a short time
+back, between our two nations, my lord, to visit our country?"
+
+"Pardon me, my lord Duke, I was not aware that hostilities had ceased
+between our two armies. I have been at sea for a long time, and without
+news of France; chance alone brought me to this coast a few hours ago,
+and I sought shelter in Algeciras Bay, to await a change of wind to
+pass the Straits."
+
+"I bless the accident, Count, since I owe to it my daughter's safety."
+
+Dona Clara had opened her eyes, and, though still very weak, she was
+beginning to account for the position in which she found herself.
+
+"Oh," she said, in a soft and humorous voice, and with an inward
+shudder, "had it not been for that gentleman, I should be dead!"
+and she attempted to smile, while fixing on the young man her large
+eyes full of tears, with an expressive gratitude it is impossible to
+describe.
+
+"How do you feel, my daughter?" the Duke asked. "I am quite well, now,
+I thank you, papa," she replied; "when I felt that Moreno no longer
+obeyed the bit, and was running away, I believed myself lost, and
+terror caused me to faint; but where is my poor Moreno?" she added a
+moment after, "Has any misfortune happened to him?"
+
+"Reassure yourself, senorita," the Count replied with a smile, and
+pointing to the horse, "here he is, all right, and quite calmed; if you
+like you can ride back on him without the slightest apprehension."
+
+"I certainly will mount my good Moreno," she said, "I bear him no ill
+will for his prank, although it nearly cost me dear."
+
+"My lord," the Duke then said, "I venture to hope that we shall not
+part thus, and that you will deign to accept the cordial hospitality
+which I offer you at my castle."
+
+"My time is not my own, unfortunately, my lord Duke, and duty demands
+my immediate presence on board. Be assured I deeply regret my inability
+to accept your kind offer."
+
+"Do you then expect to set sail so soon?"
+
+"No, sir; on the contrary, I hope," he replied, laying a certain stress
+on the words, "to remain here some time longer."
+
+"In that case," the Duke remarked with a smile, "I do not consider
+myself beaten. I am certain we shall meet again soon, and become more
+intimate acquaintances."
+
+"That is my most eager desire, sir," the young man said, taking a side
+glance at Dona Clara, who hung her head with a blush.
+
+The Count then took leave, and proceeded in the direction of Algeciras,
+while the horsemen slowly retired in exactly the opposite direction.
+
+The Captain walked on very thoughtfully, reflecting on the singular
+adventure of which he had so suddenly been the hero; recalling the
+slightest details, and admiring in memory the beauty of the young lady,
+whose life he had been so fortunate as to save.
+
+Being constantly absorbed by the thousand claims of his rude
+profession, and nearly always at sea, the Count, though almost
+twenty-five years of age, had never yet loved; he had not even thought
+about it; the few women he had hitherto met had produced no effect on
+his heart, his mind had always remained free in their presence, and no
+serious engagement had as yet disturbed its tranquillity. Hence it was
+with a certain terror mingled with astonishment, that while reflecting
+on the meeting which had suddenly interrupted his quiet walk, he
+perceived that the beauty of Dona Clara and her gentle voice had left
+a powerful impression on his mind, that her image was ever present,
+and that his memory with implacable fidelity ever recalled even its
+apparently most indifferent details, the short interview he had had
+with her.
+
+"Come, come," he said, shaking his head several times as if to drive
+away a troublesome thought; "I am mad."
+
+"Well, Captain," said Michael, who took advantage of this exclamation,
+to give a free course to the reflections which he burned to express
+aloud, "I don't care, but you must confess it was very lucky all the
+same for that young lady, that we were there at the very nick of time."
+
+"Very lucky, indeed, Michael," the Count replied, delighted at this
+diversion; "had we not been there the unhappy young lady would have
+been lost."
+
+"That is true, and hopelessly so; poor little thing."
+
+"What a frightful fate! So young, and so lovely."
+
+"I allow that she is well built, although I fancy her lines are a
+little too fine, and she is a trifle too pale." The Count smiled, but
+made no reply to the sailor's rather venturesome opinion.
+
+The latter, feeling himself encouraged, went on--
+
+"Will you allow me to give you a bit of advice, Captain?"
+
+"What is it, my lad? Speak without fear."
+
+"As for fear, deuce take me if I feel that, but I should not like to
+pain you."
+
+"Pain me, about what?"
+
+"Well, all the worse, I must out with it. When you mentioned your name,
+Captain, to the old Duke--"
+
+"Well, what happened?"
+
+"On hearing it pronounced, he suddenly turned as pale as a corpse; he
+frowned upon you so terrible a look that I fancied for a moment that he
+wished to assassinate you; don't you consider that funny, Captain?"
+
+"What you say is impossible; you are mistaken."
+
+"You did not notice it, because you had your head down, but I was
+looking at him without seeming to do so, and am quite certain about
+what I say."
+
+"But reflect, Michael, I do not know this nobleman, I never saw him
+before today; how can he possibly feel hatred for me; you are rambling,
+my good fellow."
+
+"Not at all, Captain, I am certain of what I state; whether you know
+him or not is no business of mine, but as for him, I will wager that he
+knows you, and intimately too; the impression you produced on him was
+too strong for it to be otherwise."
+
+"I will admit, if you like, that he knows me, but one thing I can
+certify, that I never offended him."
+
+"That is a point on which a man can never be sure, Captain; look you,
+I am a Basque, and have known the Spaniards for a long time; they are
+a strange people--proud as cocks, and rancorous as fiends; believe me,
+distrust them always; that can do no harm, and especially that old
+gentleman, who has a crafty face I do not like at all."
+
+"All that has no common sense, Michael, and I am as mad as yourself in
+listening to you."
+
+"Very well," the sailor said with a toss of the head, "we shall see
+hereafter whether I am mistaken."
+
+The conversation ended here; still Michael's remarks occupied the
+Captain more than he would have liked to show, and he returned on board
+with a very thoughtful air. On the next morning at about ten o'clock an
+excellent pleasure yacht hailed the frigate.
+
+This vessel contained the Duc de Penaflor, and his silent cousin, Count
+de Bejar y Sousa.
+
+"On my faith, my dear Count," the Duke said, good-humouredly, after the
+first compliments, "you are going to find me very unceremonious, for I
+have come to carry you off."
+
+"Carry me off?" the young man replied with a smile.
+
+"On my word, yes. Just imagine, Count, my daughter insists on seeing
+you; she only speaks of you, and as she does pretty well what she
+pleases with me--a thing that will not surprise you greatly. She sent
+me to you to tell you that you must absolutely accompany me to the
+castle."
+
+"So it is," Don Stenio said with a bow, "the Senorita Dona Clara
+insists on seeing you."
+
+"Still--" the other objected.
+
+"I will listen to nothing," the Duke remarked quickly, "you must make
+up your mind, my dear Count, you can only obey, for you are aware that
+ladies cannot be thwarted; so come, reassure yourself, though, I am not
+going to take you far, for my castle is scarce two leagues from here."
+
+The Count, who in his heart, felt a lively desire to see Dona Clara
+again, did not allow himself to be pressed one bit more than was
+correct: then, after giving the necessary orders to his second in
+command, he accompanied the Duc de Penaflor, followed by Michael, who
+seemed to be the Captain's shade.
+
+This was the way in which began a connection which was soon to
+be changed into love, and have, at a later date, such terrible
+consequences for the unhappy officer.
+
+The Duke and his eternal cousin who never quitted him, overwhelmed
+the Count with protestations of friendship, granted him the most
+perfect liberty at the castle, and appeared not at all to notice the
+intelligence which was soon established between Dona Clara and the
+young man.
+
+The latter, completely subjugated by the passion he experienced for the
+young lady, yielded to his love with the confident and unreflecting
+abandonment of all hearts that love for the first time.
+
+Dona Clara, a simple girl, brought up with all the rigid strictness of
+Spanish manners, but an Andalusian from head to foot, had listened with
+a quiver of delight to the confession of this love which she had shared
+from the first moment.
+
+Everybody, therefore, was happy at the castle; Michael alone formed
+an exception, with his stolid face, which was never unwrinkled; the
+more rapidly he saw matters tending to the conclusion the young people
+desired, the more gloomy and anxious he became.
+
+In the meanwhile the frigate had left Algeciras for Cadiz.
+
+The Duke, his daughter, and Don Stenio had made the passage on board;
+the Duc de Penaflor wanted to go to Seville, where he had large
+estates, hence he accepted with eager demonstrations of joy the
+proposal the Count made him, of conveying him on board his frigate to
+Cadiz, which is only some twenty leagues from Seville.
+
+On the day after the frigate's arrival at Cadiz, the Captain put on his
+full uniform, went ashore, and proceeded to the Duke's palace.
+
+The Duke, doubtless warned of his visit, received him with a smile on
+his lips, and with a most affectionate air.
+
+Emboldened by this reception, the Count, overcoming his timidity,
+requested leave to marry Dona Clara.
+
+The Duke received it favourably; said that he had expected this
+request, and that it satisfied all his wishes, since it caused the
+happiness of a daughter he loved.
+
+"Still," he remarked to the Count, "although there was a truce between
+the two countries, a peace was not yet signed. Though, according to all
+appearance it would be soon carried out, for all that, he feared lest
+the news of this marriage might injure the Count's future, by rendering
+the Cardinal ill disposed toward him."
+
+This reflection had several times offered itself to the young officer's
+mind; hence he hung his head, not daring to reply, because, unluckily,
+he had no valid reason to offer, that would remove the Duke's
+objections.
+
+The latter came to his assistance by saying that there was a very
+simple way of arranging matters to the general satisfaction, and
+removing this apparently insurmountable difficulty.
+
+The Count quivering with fear and pleasure, asked what this method was.
+
+The Duke then explained to him that he meant a secret marriage. As
+long as the war lasted, silence would be maintained, but once peace
+was concluded and an ambassador sent to Paris, the marriage should be
+publicly announced to the Cardinal, who then would probably not feel
+offended by the union.
+
+The young man had been too near seeing his dream of bliss eternally
+destroyed to raise the slightest objection to this proposition; secret
+or not, the marriage would not be the less valid and he cared little
+for the rest. Hence he consented to all the conditions imposed on him
+by the Duke, who insisted that the marriage might be effected in such
+a way as to keep him in ignorance of it, so that in the event of his
+Eminence attempting to turn the King against him, he might employ this
+pretended ignorance in foiling the ill will of those who might attempt
+to ruin him.
+
+The Count did not exactly understand what the King of Spain had to do
+with his marriage; but as the Duke spoke with an air of conviction, and
+seemed to be greatly alarmed about the King's displeasure, he consented
+to everything.
+
+Two days later at nightfall, the young couple were married at the
+Church of la Merced, by a priest, who consented for a heavy sum to lend
+his ministration to this illegal act.
+
+Michael the Basque and Bowline served as witnesses of the captain, who,
+on the pressing recommendation of the Duke, was unwilling to let any of
+his officers into his secrets, while he was sure of the silence of the
+two sailors.
+
+Immediately after the ceremony, the new bride was taken off on one side
+by her witnesses, while her husband withdrew greatly annoyed on the
+other, and went aboard the frigate.
+
+When the Count on the next morning presented himself at the Duke's
+palace, the latter informed him that, in order to remove any pretext
+for malevolence, he had thought it advisable to send away his daughter
+for a while, and she had gone to stay with a relation residing at
+Grenada.
+
+The Count did not allow his disappointment to be seen; he withdrew,
+pretending to accept as gospel the somewhat specious reasoning of the
+Duke.
+
+Still, he was beginning to find the Duke's conduct towards him very
+extraordinary, and he resolved to clear up the doubts that arose in his
+mind.
+
+Michael and Bowline were sent into the country to reconnoitre.
+
+The Count learned from them, not without surprise, at the end of two
+days' researches that Dona Clara was not at Grenada, but merely at
+Puerto Santa Maria, a charming little town facing Cadiz on the opposite
+side of the road.
+
+The Captain, so soon as he possessed the information for the success
+of the plan he meditated, managed by the intervention of Michael, who
+spoke Spanish like an Andalusian, to send a note to Dona Clara, and at
+nightfall, followed by his two faithful sailors, he landed at Santa
+Maria.
+
+The house inhabited by the young lady was rather isolated; he set the
+two sailors on sentry to watch over her safety, and walked straight up
+to the house.
+
+Dona Clara herself opened the door for him. The joy of the couple was
+immense, and the Count retired shortly before sunrise; at about ten
+o'clock, he went as usual to pay a visit to his father-in-law, in
+whose presence he continued to feign the most complete ignorance as to
+Dona Clara's abode, and was most kindly welcomed.
+
+This state of things went on for nearly a month. One day the Count
+suddenly received information of the resumption of the hostilities
+between Spain and France; he was himself forced to quit Cadiz, but
+wished to have a final interview with the Duke, in order to ask him for
+a frank explanation of his conduct; in the event of this explanation
+not satisfying him, he was resolved to carry his wife off.
+
+When he arrived at the Duke's palace, a confidential servant informed
+him that his master, suddenly summoned by the king, had started an hour
+previously to Madrid, without, to his great regret, having had time to
+take leave of him.
+
+On hearing this, the Count had a presentiment of evil; he turned pale,
+but succeeded in overcoming his emotion, and calmly asked the valet
+whether his master had not left a letter for him; the servant answered
+in the affirmative and handed him a sealed note.
+
+The Count broke the seal with a trembling hand and ran through the
+letter, but his emotion was so great on perusing the contents that he
+tottered, and had not the valet sprang forward to support him, he would
+have fallen to the ground.
+
+"Ah!" he muttered, "Michael was right," and he crumpled the paper
+savagely.
+
+But suddenly recovering himself, he overcame his grief and, after
+giving the valet several louis, hurried away.
+
+"Poor young man!" the valet muttered with a sorrowful shake of the head
+and re-entered the palace, the gates of which he closed after him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+DESPAIR.
+
+
+A few yards from the palace the Count met Michael, who was coming
+towards him.
+
+"A boat, quick, quick, my good Michael," he shouted, "'tis a matter of
+life and death."
+
+The sailor, terrified at the condition in which he saw his commandant,
+wished to ask him what the matter was, but the Count roughly imposed
+silence on him by repeating his order to procure a boat at once.
+
+Michael bowed his head.
+
+"Woe is me. I foresaw this," he muttered, with mingled grief and anger,
+and he ran off towards the port.
+
+It is not a difficult task to find a boat at Cadiz, and Michael had
+only to choose; comprehending that the Count was in a hurry, he
+selected one pulled by ten oars.
+
+The Count arrived at the same moment.
+
+"Twenty louis for you and your crew if you are at Puerto in twenty
+minutes," he shouted, as he leaped into the boat, which was almost
+capsized by the violence of the shock.
+
+The boat started, the sailors bent over their oars, and made her fly
+through the water.
+
+The captain with his eyes obstinately fixed on Santa Maria, and
+striking his clenched fist on the boat's gunwale, in spite of the
+excessive speed at which it was going, incessantly repeated in a
+choking voice--
+
+"Quicker, quicker, muchachos."
+
+He passed like an arrow across the bows of the frigate, whose crew were
+preparing to weigh anchor. At length they reached Puerto.
+
+"No one is to follow me," the captain cried, as he leaped ashore.
+
+But Michael did not heed this order, and at the risk of what might
+happen to him, he set out in pursuit of the Count, whom he would not
+abandon in his present frightful condition.
+
+It was fortunate he did so, for when he reached the house Dona Clara
+had inhabited, he saw the young man lying senseless on the ground.
+
+The house was deserted, and Dona Clara had disappeared.
+
+The sailor took his captain on his shoulders and conveyed him to the
+boat, where he laid him as comfortably as he could in the stem sheets.
+
+"Where are we going?" the master asked.
+
+"To the French frigate; and make haste," Michael replied.
+
+When the boat was alongside the frigate, Michael paid the master the
+promised reward, and then aided by several of the crew, conveyed the
+captain to his cabin. As it was eminently necessary to keep the Count's
+secret, and avoid arousing suspicions, the sailor in his report to
+the first commandant, ascribed to a violent fall from a horse, the
+condition in which the captain was; then, after making a signal to
+Bowline to follow him, he returned to the cabin.
+
+M. de Barmont was still as motionless as if he were dead; the chief
+surgeon of the frigate in vain bestowed the greatest care on him
+without succeeding in recalling life, which seemed to have fled forever.
+
+"Send away your assistants; Bowline and myself will suffice," Michael
+said to the doctor, with a meaning glance.
+
+The surgeon comprehended, and dismissed the mates. When the door had
+closed on them the sailor drew the doctor into a gun berth, and said to
+him, in so low a voice as to be scarce audible--
+
+"Major, the Commandant has just experienced a great sorrow, which
+produced the terrible crisis he is suffering from at this moment. I
+confide this to you because a surgeon is like a confessor."
+
+"All right, my lad," the surgeon replied; "the Captain's secret has
+been trusted to sure ears."
+
+"I am convinced of that, Major; the officers and crew must suppose that
+the Captain has been thrown from his horse, you understand. I have
+already told the lieutenant so in making the report."
+
+"Very good; I will corroborate your statement, my lad."
+
+"Thanks, Major; now I have another thing to ask of you."
+
+"Speak."
+
+"You must obtain the lieutenant's leave that no one but Bowline and
+myself may wait on the Captain. Look you, Major, we are old sailors of
+his, he can say what he likes before us; and then, too, he will be glad
+to have us near him; will you get this leave from the lieutenant?"
+
+"Yes, my lad; I know that you are a good fellow, sincerely attached to
+the Captain, and that he places entire confidence in you; hence, do not
+feel alarmed--I will settle that with the lieutenant, and you and your
+companion shall alone come in here with me so long as the Captain is
+ill."
+
+"Thanks, Major; if an opportunity offers itself I will repay you this;
+on the faith of a Basque, you are a worthy man."
+
+The surgeon began laughing.
+
+"Let us return to our patient," he said, in order to cut short the
+conversation.
+
+In spite of the intelligent care the doctor paid him the Count's
+fainting fit lasted the whole day.
+
+"The shock was frightful," he said--"it was almost a congestion."
+
+It was not till night, when the frigate had been for a long time at
+sea, and had left Cadiz roads far behind it, that a favourable crisis
+set in, and the Captain became slightly better.
+
+"He is about to regain his senses," the doctor said.
+
+In fact, a few convulsive movements agitated the Count's body, and he
+half-opened his eyes; but his glances were wild and absent; he looked
+all around him, as if trying to discover where he was, and why he was
+thus lying on his bed.
+
+The three men, with their eyes fixed on him, anxiously watched this
+return to life, whose appearance was anything but reassuring to them.
+
+The surgeon, more especially, seemed restless; big forehead was
+wrinkled, and his eyebrows met, through the effort of some internal
+emotion.
+
+All at once the Count hurriedly sat up, and addressed Michael, who was
+standing by his side.
+
+"Lieutenant," he said to him, in a quick, sharp voice, "let her fall
+off a point, or else the Spanish vessel will escape--why have you not
+beat to quarters, sir?"
+
+The surgeon gave Michael a sign.
+
+"Pardon, Commandant," the latter replied, humouring the sick man's
+fancy, "we have beaten to quarters, and the tops are all manned."
+
+"Very good," he answered; then suddenly changing his ideas, he
+muttered--"She will come, she promised it me. But no, she will not
+come; she is dead to me henceforth--dead! dead!" he repeated, in a
+hollow voice, with different intonations; then he uttered a piercing
+cry--"Oh, heaven! How I suffer!" he exclaimed, bursting into sobs,
+while a torrent of tears inundated his face.
+
+He buried his head in his hands, and fell back on his bed.
+
+The two sailors anxiously examined the surgeon's impassive face, trying
+to read in his features what they had to hope or fear.
+
+The latter uttered a deep sigh of relief, passed his hand over his damp
+forehead, and turning to Michael, said--
+
+"Heaven be praised! He sheds tears--he is saved."
+
+"Heaven be praised!" the sailors repeated, crossing themselves devoutly.
+
+"Do you think he is mad, Major?" Michael asked, in a trembling voice.
+
+"No, it is not madness, but delirium; he will soon fall asleep--do not
+leave him; when he awakes he will remember nothing. If he ask for drink
+give him the potion I have prepared, and which is on that table."
+
+"Yes, Major."
+
+"Now I am going to retire; if any unforeseen accident occur, warn me at
+once; but, in any case, I shall look in again tonight."
+
+The surgeon left the cabin; his previsions were soon realised, M. de
+Barmont gradually fell into a calm and peaceful sleep.
+
+The two sailors stood motionless by his bedside; no nurse could have
+watched a patient with greater care and more delicate attention than
+did these two men, whose exterior seemed so hard, but whose hearts were
+really so kind.
+
+The whole night passed away thus; the surgeon had come in several
+times, but after a few minutes' examination he withdrew with an air of
+satisfaction, and laying a finger on his lips.
+
+About morning, at the first sunbeam that entered the cabin, the Count
+made a slight movement, opened his eyes, and slightly turned his head.
+
+"My good Michael, give me some drink," he said, in a feeble voice.
+
+The sailor handed him a glass.
+
+"I feel crushed," he muttered; "have I been ill?"
+
+"Yes, a little," the sailor replied; "but now it is all over, thank
+heaven! You need only have patience."
+
+"I feel the motion of the frigate--are we under weigh?"
+
+"Yes, Commandant."
+
+"And who gave the orders?"
+
+"Yourself, last night."
+
+"Ah!" he remarked, as he handed back the glass. His head fell heavily
+on the pillow again, and he was silent.
+
+Still, he did not sleep; his eyes were opened, and gazed anxiously all
+around.
+
+"I remember," he murmured, while two tears welled in his eyes; then he
+suddenly addressed Michael.
+
+"It was you who picked me up and brought me aboard?"
+
+"Yes, Captain, 'twas."
+
+"Thanks! and yet it would have perhaps been better to leave me to die."
+
+The sailor shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.
+
+"That is a fine idea, strike me!" he grumbled.
+
+"Oh, if you only knew," he said, sorrowfully.
+
+"I knew all; did I not warn you of it the first day?"
+
+"That is true; I ought to have believed you--but, alas! I already loved
+her."
+
+"Zounds! I knew that, and she deserved it."
+
+"Does she still love me?"
+
+"Who can doubt it, poor dear creature?"
+
+"You are a good man, Michael."
+
+"I am just."
+
+There was another silence.
+
+At the expiration of a few minutes the Count renewed the conversation.
+
+"Did you find the letter?" he asked. "Where is it?"
+
+"Here," he said, as he handed it to him.
+
+The Count eagerly clutched it.
+
+"Have you read it?" he asked.
+
+"For what purpose?" said Michael. "Zounds, it must be a tissue of lies
+and infamies! And I am not curious about reading such things."
+
+"There, take it," said the Count.
+
+"To tear it up?"
+
+"No, to read it."
+
+"What's the good?"
+
+"You must know the contents of the letter--I order it."
+
+"That is different--give it here."
+
+He took the letter, opened, and ran through it.
+
+"Read it aloud," said the Count.
+
+"That is a pretty job you give me, Commandant. Still, as you wish it, I
+must obey you."
+
+"I implore you, Michael."
+
+"Enough, Captain."
+
+And he began reading the strange missive aloud.
+
+It was short and laconic, but on that very account it necessarily
+produced a more terrible effect, because every word was carefully
+chosen to go straight home.
+
+The following was its tenor:--
+
+MY LORD,
+
+You have not married my daughter: I defrauded you by a false marriage.
+You shall never see her again--she is dead to you. For many years there
+has been an implacable hatred between your family and mine. I should
+not have gone to seek you, but Heaven itself brought you in my way. I
+understood that it was desired I should avenge myself, and I obeyed.
+I believe that I have succeeded in breaking your heart forever. The
+love you have for my daughter is sincere and deep. All the better, for
+you will suffer the more cruelly. Farewell, my lord. Believe me, you
+had better not try to find me, for, if you succeed, my vengeance will
+be even more terrible. My daughter will marry in a month the man she
+loves, and whom alone she has ever loved.
+
+"Don Estevan de Sylva, Duc de Penaflor."
+
+When the sailor had finished reading he turned an enquiring glance to
+his chief. The latter shook his head several times, but made no other
+reply.
+
+Michael handed back the letter, which the Captain at once concealed
+beneath his pillow.
+
+"What do you intend to do?" the sailor asked him, a moment after.
+
+"You shall know hereafter," the Count answered, in a hollow voice. "I
+could not form a determination now, for my head is still heavy, and I
+require to reflect."
+
+Michael gave a nod of assent.
+
+At this moment the doctor came in. He appeared delighted at seeing his
+patient in so good a state, and with a joyous rubbing of his hands,
+promised that he should leave his bed in a week at the latest.
+
+In fact, the surgeon was not mistaken, for the Count rapidly recovered;
+ere long he was able to rise, and at the end of a few days, were it
+not for a cadaverous pallor spread over his face, and which he ever
+retained, his strength seemed to have entirely come back to him.
+
+M. de Barmont steered his frigate up the Tagus, and anchored before
+Lisbon. So soon as the vessel was moored the Captain summoned the
+second in command to his cabin, and had a long conversation with him,
+after which he went ashore with Michael and Bowline.
+
+The frigate remained under the command of the first lieutenant: the
+Count had abandoned it for ever.
+
+This deed almost constituted a desertion; but M. de Barmont was
+resolved on returning to Cadiz at all hazards.
+
+During the few days that had elapsed since his conference with Michael,
+the Count had reflected, as he promised the sailor.
+
+The result of his reflections was, that Dona Clara had been deceived
+by the Duke like himself, and believed herself really married--indeed,
+the whole of the young lady's behaviour to him proved the fact. In
+desiring to insure his vengeance too thoroughly, the Duke had gone
+beyond his object: Dona Clara loved him, he felt certain of that. She
+had only obeyed her father under the constraint of force.
+
+This admitted, only one thing was left the Count to do; to return
+to Cadiz, collect information, find the Duke, and have a solemn
+explanation with him in his daughter's presence.
+
+This plan drawn up in his mind, the young man immediately set, about
+carrying it out, leaving the command of his vessel to the lieutenant,
+at the risk of destroying his career and being pursued as a traitor, as
+the war was raging between France and Spain. He freighted a coaster;
+and, followed by his two sailors, to whom he had frankly explained his
+intention, but who would not leave him, he returned to Cadiz.
+
+Thanks to the thorough knowledge of Spanish he possessed, the Count did
+not arouse any suspicions in that city, where it was easy for him to
+obtain the information he desired.
+
+The Duke had really set out for Madrid. The Count at once proceeded
+to that city. A gentleman of the importance of the Duc de Penaflor,
+a grandee of Spain of the first class, a _caballero cubierto_, could
+not travel without leaving traces, especially when nothing led him to
+suspect that he was followed. Hence the Count had not the slightest
+difficulty in discovering the route he had taken, and he arrived
+at Madrid, persuaded that he should soon have with the Duke the
+explanation he so ardently desired.
+
+But his hopes were foiled. The Duke, after being honored with a private
+audience by the King, had set out for Barcelona.
+
+Fatality interfered, but the Count would not be baffled: he mounted his
+horse, crossed Spain, and arrived at Barcelona.
+
+The Duke had embarked for Naples on the previous day.
+
+This pursuit was assuming the proportions of an Odyssey: it seemed as
+if the Duke felt that he was being pursued.
+
+It was not so, however. He was carrying out a mission with which his
+sovereign had entrusted him.
+
+The Count made enquiries, and learnt that the Duc de Penaflor was
+accompanied by his daughter, and two sons.
+
+Two days later, M. de Barmont was sailing to Naples, on board a
+smuggling vessel.
+
+We will not enter into all the details of this obstinate pursuit, which
+lasted for several months.
+
+We will confine ourselves to saying that the Count missed the Duke
+at Naples, as he had missed him at Madrid and Barcelona, and that he
+traversed the whole of Italy, and entered France, still in chase of his
+intangible enemy, who seemed to fly before him.
+
+But during the interval, although the Count did not suspect, the parts
+had been greatly modified, if not completely changed.
+
+In this way.
+
+The Duke had a great interest in knowing what the Count would do.
+Though it was certain that the war would compel him to leave Spain,
+still he was too well acquainted with the young man's resolute and
+determined character to suppose for a moment that he would accept the
+insult offered him, without trying to take a startling revenge.
+
+In consequence, he had left at Cadiz a confidential man with orders to
+watch the Count's movements with the greatest care, in the event of his
+reappearing, and to warn the Duke of what steps he might take.
+
+The man had conscientiously and most skilfully discharged the delicate
+duty entrusted to him, and while the Count was pursuing the Duke, he
+pursued the Count, never letting him out of sight, stopping when he
+stopped, and setting out behind him directly he saw him start.
+
+When at last he felt assured that the Count was really after his
+master, he got ahead of him, rejoined the Duke, whom he came up with
+in the neighbourhood of Pignerol, and reported to him all that he had
+learned.
+
+The Duke, though internally terrified by the hateful persistency of
+his enemy, pretended to attach but very slight importance to this
+communication, and smiled contemptuously on listening to his servant's
+report.
+
+But, for all this, he did not neglect to take his precautions; and, as
+peace was on the point of being signed, and a Spanish plenipotentiary
+was in Paris, he sent off the same valet to him at full speed, with a
+pressing letter.
+
+This letter was a formal denunciation of the Count de Barmont
+Senectaire.
+
+Cardinal de Richelieu raised no difficulty about granting an order
+to arrest the Count, and police agents of his Eminence, commanded by
+Francois Bouillot, left Paris in pursuit of the unhappy officer.
+
+The latter, completely ignorant of what was going on, had continued
+his journey, and even gained ground on the Duke, who, persuaded that
+henceforth he would have nothing to fear from his enemy, as the latter
+would be arrested before he could come up with him, now travelled by
+easy stages.
+
+The Duke's calculations were false, however. He had not reflected that
+the Cardinal's guards, not knowing where to find the man whom they had
+orders to arrest, and obliged to feel their way, would be compelled to
+almost double their journey: and this really occurred.
+
+Moreover, as, with the exception of Bouillot, not one of them was
+personally acquainted with the Count, and he, as we now know, desired
+nothing so much as the Count's escape, he passed through the midst
+of them unsuspected, which occasioned them a great loss of time, by
+compelling them to turn back.
+
+We have already narrated how, after the stormy explanation which took
+place between father-in-law and son-in-law, the latter was arrested,
+taken by Bouillot to the Isle St. Marguerite, and delivered over
+to Major de l'Oursiere. And now that we have fully explained the
+respective positions of each of our characters, we will resume our
+narrative at the point where we left it.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+THE PRISONER.
+
+
+We have mentioned that after proof of identity, and perusal of the
+order of arrest, Major de l'Oursiere, governor of the fortress of St.
+Marguerite, had the Count conducted to the room which was to serve as
+his prison, until the day when it might please the Cardinal to restore
+him to liberty.
+
+This room, very spacious and lofty, of an octagonal shape, and with
+whitewashed walls, fifteen feet thick, was only lighted by two narrow
+loopholes, covered with an under and outer iron trelliswork, which
+completely prevented any looking out.
+
+A large chimney, with a wide mantelpiece, occupied one corner of the
+room: facing was a bed, composed of a thin palliasse and a narrow
+mattress laid on a deal bedstead, formerly painted yellow, though time
+had completely removed the colour.
+
+A rickety table, a stool, a chair, a night commode, and an iron
+candlestick, completed the furniture, which was more than modest.
+
+This room was situated on the highest floor of the tower, the platform
+of which, where a sentry tramped day and night, served as the ceiling.
+
+The soldier drew the bolts that garnished the iron-lined door of this
+room. The Count entered, with a firm step.
+
+After taking a glance at these cold, sad walls, destined henceforward
+to serve him as a habitation, he sat down on a chair, crossed his arms
+on his breast, hung his head, and began to reflect.
+
+The soldier, or rather gaoler, who had gone out, returned an hour
+later, and found him in the same position.
+
+He brought with him sheets, blankets, and wood to light a fire. Behind
+him two soldiers carried the portmanteau containing the prisoner's
+clothes and linen, which they placed in a corner, and retired.
+
+The gaoler at once set to work making the bed. Then he swept the room
+and lit the fire. When these different duties were accomplished, he
+approached the prisoner.
+
+"My lord?" he said to him politely.
+
+"What do you want with me, my friend?" the Count answered, raising his
+head and looking at him gently.
+
+"The governor of the castle desires the honour of an interview with
+you, as he says he has an important communication to make."
+
+"I am at the governor's orders," the Count said laconically.
+
+The gaoler bowed and went out.
+
+"What can the man want with me?" the Count muttered, so soon as he was
+alone.
+
+He had not long to wait, for the door opened again and the governor
+made his appearance.
+
+The prisoner rose to receive him, bowed, and then silently waited for
+him to speak.
+
+The Major made the gaoler a sign to withdraw, and then, after a fresh
+bow, he said with cold politeness,--
+
+"My lord Count, gentlemen should respect each other. Although
+the orders I have received on your account from the Cardinal are
+very strict, I still desire to shew you any attention that is not
+incompatible with my duty. I have, therefore, come to you frankly in
+order to have an understanding on the subject."
+
+The Count guessed to what this speech tended, but did not let it be
+seen, and answered,--
+
+"Mr. Governor, I am grateful, as I ought to be, for the steps you
+have been kind enough to take; may I ask you, therefore, to have the
+goodness to explain to me the nature of your orders, and what the
+favours are by which you can alleviate their severity. But, in the
+first place, as I am at home here," he added, with a melancholy smile;
+"do me the honour of seating yourself."
+
+The Major bowed, but remained standing.
+
+"It is unnecessary, my lord," he remarked, "as what I have to say to
+you is very short; in the first place, you will observe that I have had
+the delicacy to send you the trunk containing your effects unexamined
+as I had the right to do."
+
+"I allow the fact, Major, and feel obliged; to you for it."
+
+The Major bowed.
+
+"As you are an officer, my lord," he said, "you are aware that his
+Eminence the Cardinal, although he is a great man, is not very liberal
+to officers whose infirmity or wounds compel them to quit the service."
+
+"That is true."
+
+"The governors of fortresses more especially, although nominated by the
+King, being obliged to pay a long price to their predecessors for the
+office, are reduced to a perfect state of want, if they have not saved
+up some money."
+
+"I was not aware of that circumstance, sir, and fancied that the
+governorship of a fortress was a reward."
+
+"So it is, my lord, but we have to pay for the command of fortresses
+like this, which are employed as state prisons."
+
+"Ah! Very good."
+
+"You understand, it is supposed that the governor makes a profit by the
+prisoners intrusted to his keeping."
+
+"Of course, sir; are there at present many unhappy men who have
+incurred the displeasure of His Eminence detained in this castle?"
+
+"Alas, sir, you are the only one, and that is exactly the reason why I
+desire to have an amicable settlement with you."
+
+"For my part, be assured, sir, that I desire nothing more earnestly."
+
+"I am convinced of that, and hence will discuss the question frankly."
+
+"Do so, sir, do so; I am listening to you with the most serious
+attention."
+
+"I have orders, sir, not to let you communicate with anyone but your
+gaoler, to give you neither books, papers, pens, or ink, and never to
+allow you to quit this room; it appears there is great fear of your
+escape from here, and his Eminence is anxious to keep you."
+
+"I am extremely obliged to his Eminence, but luckily for me," the Count
+answered with a smile, "instead of having to deal with a gaoler, I am
+dependent on a true soldier, who, while strictly obeying his orders,
+considers it unnecessary to torture a prisoner already so unhappy as to
+have fallen into disgrace with the King and the Cardinal minister."
+
+"You have judged me correctly, my lord, though the orders are so
+strict. I command alone in this castle, where I have no control to
+fear. Hence I hope to have it in my power to relax the rigor I am
+commanded to show you."
+
+"Whatever may be your intention in that respect, allow me, sir, in
+my turn to speak like a frank and loyal sailor. As prisoner of your
+King, doubtless for a very long time, money is perfectly useless to
+me; though not rich, I enjoy a certain ease, on which I congratulate
+myself, as this ease permits me to requite any polite attentions you
+may show me; service for service, sir, I will give you every year
+10,000 livres, paid in advance; and, on your side, will you allow me to
+procure, at my own charges of course, all the objects susceptible of
+alleviating my captivity."
+
+The Major felt as if about to faint. The old officer of fortune had
+never in his whole life possessed so large a sum.
+
+The Count continued without seeming to notice the effect his words
+produced on the governor.
+
+"Well then, that is quite understood. To the sum the King pays you
+for my board, we will add 200 livres a month, or 2,400 per annum, for
+papers, pens, ink, &c., suppose we say the round sum of 3,000 livres,
+does that suit you?"
+
+"Ah, Sir, it is too much, a great deal too much."
+
+"No, Sir, since I assist an honourable man, who will owe me thanks for
+it."
+
+"Ah! I shall be eternally grateful, sir; but, do not be angry with my
+frankness, you will oblige me to offer up vows to keep you as long as
+possible."
+
+"Who knows, sir, whether my departure will not some day be more
+advantageous than my stay here?" he said with a meaning smile; "be good
+enough to lend me your tablets."
+
+The Major offered them to him.
+
+The Count tore out a leaf, with a few pencilled words on it, and handed
+it back to him.
+
+"Here," he said, "is a draught for 16,000 livres, which you can receive
+at sight from Messrs. Dubois, Loustal, and Co., of Toulon, whenever you
+have leisure."
+
+The governor clutched the paper with a start of joy.
+
+"But it seems to me that this draft is 800 livres in excess of the sum
+agreed on between us?" he said.
+
+"That is correct, sir, but the 800 livres are for the purchase of
+different articles, of which here is the list, and which I must ask you
+to procure for me."
+
+"You shall have them tomorrow, my lord," and after bowing very low the
+governor walked backwards out of the room.
+
+"Come," the Count muttered gaily, when the heavy door had closed on
+the Major; "I was not deceived, I judged that man correctly, and his
+is really perfect, but his most thoroughly developed vice is decidedly
+avarice; I can make something of it, I fancy, when I like, but I must
+not go ahead too fast, but act with the greatest prudence."
+
+Certain of not being disturbed, at least for some hours, the Count
+opened the trunk brought in by the two soldiers, in order to convince
+himself whether the governor had told him the truth, and the contents
+were really intact.
+
+The trunk had not been examined.
+
+In the foresight of a probable arrest, the Count when he started in
+pursuit of the Duc de Penaflor, had purchased several objects which he
+found again with the most lively satisfaction.
+
+In addition to a certain quantity of clothes and linen, the trunk
+contained a very fine and strong silk cord, nearly one hundred fathoms
+in length, two pairs of pistols, a dagger, a sword, powder and bullets,
+objects which the governor would have confiscated without any scruple,
+had he seen them, and which the Count had laid in at all risks,
+trusting to chance.
+
+There were also several iron and steel tools, and concealed in a double
+bottom, a very heavy purse containing the sum of 25,000 livres in
+gold, in addition to another almost equally large amount in Spanish
+quadruples sewn into a wide leathern belt.
+
+So soon as the Count was certain that the Major had told him the truth,
+he carefully locked the trunk again, hung the key round his neck by a
+steel chain, and sat down quietly in the chimney corner.
+
+His meditations were interrupted by the gaoler. This time the man not
+only brought him bed furniture, far superior to what he had given him
+before, but he had added a carpet, a mirror, and even toilet utensils.
+
+A cloth was spread on a table, upon which he placed in a moment a very
+appetising dinner.
+
+"The Major begs me to apologize, sir," he said; "tomorrow he will send
+you what you asked for. In the meanwhile he has forwarded you some
+books."
+
+"Very good, my friend," the Count replied.
+
+"What is your name?"
+
+"La Grenade, sir."
+
+"Has the Governor selected you to wait on me?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"My friend, you appear to me a good fellow, here are three louis for
+you. I will give you the same amount every month if I am satisfied with
+your attention."
+
+"Had you given me nothing, sir," La Grenade replied, as he took the
+money, "it would not have prevented me from serving you with all the
+zeal of which I am capable, and if I receive these three louis, it is
+only because a poor devil like me has no right to refuse a present from
+so generous a gentleman as you. But, I repeat, sir, I am quite at your
+service, and you can employ me in whatever way you please."
+
+"Goodness!" the Count said, in surprise; "and yet I do not know you,
+as far as I am aware, La Grenade--whence, may I ask, comes this great
+devotion to my person?"
+
+"I am most willing to tell you, sir, if it interests you. I am a
+friend of M. Francois Bouillot, to whom I am under certain obligations;
+he ordered me to serve and obey you in everything."
+
+"That good Bouillot," said the Count. "Very well, my friend, I shall
+not be ungrateful. I do not want you anymore at present."
+
+The gaoler put some logs on the fire, lit the lamp, and withdrew.
+
+"Well," said the Count, with a laugh, "Heaven forgive me! I believe
+that, though a prisoner in appearance, I am as much master of this
+castle as the governor, and that I can leave it without opposition on
+any day I like. What would the Cardinal think if he knew how his orders
+were executed?"
+
+He sat down to table, unfolded his napkin, and began dining with a good
+appetite.
+
+Things went on thus, in the way agreed on between the Governor and his
+prisoner.
+
+The arrival of Count de Barmont at the fortress had been a windfall for
+the Major, who, since he had received from the royal munificence the
+command of this castle as retiring pension, had not once before had an
+opportunity to derive any profit from the position that had been given
+him. Hence he promised to make a gold mine of his solitary prisoner;
+for the Isle of St. Marguerite, as we have already remarked, had not
+yet acquired the reputation which it merited at a later date as a State
+prison.
+
+The Count's room was furnished as well as it could be; everything he
+demanded in the shape of books was procured him, though he had to pay
+dearly for them, and he was even allowed to walk on the towers.
+
+The Count was happy--so far, at least, as the circumstances in which
+he found himself allowed him to be so: no one would have supposed,
+on seeing him work so assiduously at mathematics and navigation, for
+he applied himself most seriously to the completion of his maritime
+education, that this man nourished in his heart a thought of implacable
+vengeance, and that this thought was ever present to him.
+
+At the first blush, the resolution formed by the Count to allow himself
+to be incarcerated, while it was easy for him to remain free, may seem
+strange: but the Count was one of those men of granite whose thoughts
+are immutable, and who, when they have once formed a resolution, after
+calculating with the utmost coolness all the chances for and against,
+follow the road they have laid down for themselves, ever marching in a
+straight line without caring for the obstacles that arise at each step
+on their path and surmounting them, because they decided from the first
+that they would do so--characters that grow and are perfected in the
+struggle, and sooner or later reach the goal they have designed.
+
+The Count understood that any resistance to the Cardinal would result
+in his own utter ruin; and there was no lack of proofs to support this
+reasoning: by escaping from the guards who were taking him to prison,
+he would remain at liberty, it is true, but he would be exiled, obliged
+to quit France, and wander about in foreign parts alone, isolated,
+without resources, ever on the watch, forced to hide himself, and
+reduced to the impossibility of asking, that is to say, of obtaining
+the necessary information he required to avenge himself on the man
+who, by robbing him of the wife he loved, had at the same blow not
+only destroyed his career and fortune, but also eternally ruined his
+happiness.
+
+He was young, and could wait; vengeance is eaten cold, say the
+southerners--and the Count came from Languedoc. Besides, as he had said
+to Bouillot, in a moment of expansiveness, he wished to suffer, in
+order to kill within him every human feeling that still existed, and to
+find himself one day armed _cap-a-pie_ to face his enemy.
+
+Cardinal Richelieu and Louis XIII. were both seriously ill. Their death
+would not fail to produce a change of reign in two, three, or four
+years at the most, and that catastrophe would arrive, one of whose
+consequences it is to produce a reaction, and consequently, to open to
+all the prisoners of the defunct Cardinal the dungeons to which he had
+condemned them.
+
+The Count was twenty-five years of age: hence time was his own, and the
+more so because, when restored to liberty, he would enter on all his
+rights, and as an enemy of Richelieu, be favourably regarded at Court,
+and, through the temporary credit he would enjoy, be in a condition to
+regain all the advantage he had lost as concerned his foe.
+
+Only energetically endowed men, who are sure of themselves, are capable
+of making such calculations, and obstinately pursuing a line of
+conduct so opposed to all logical combinations; but these men who thus
+resolutely enlist chance on their side, and reckon on it as a partner,
+always succeed in what they purpose doing, unless death suddenly cuts
+them short.
+
+Through the intercession of La Grenade, and the tacit connivance of the
+Governor, who closed his eyes with a charming inattention, the Count
+was not only cognizant with all that was going on outside, but also
+received letters from his friends, which he answered.
+
+One day, after reading a letter which la Grenade had given him when
+bringing in breakfast, a letter from the Duc de Bellegarde, which had
+reached him through Michael, for the worthy sailor had refused to leave
+his Commandant, and had turned fisherman at Antibes, with Bowline as
+his assistant, the Count sent a message to the Governor, requesting a
+few minutes' conversation with him.
+
+The Major knew that every visit he paid his prisoner was a profit to
+him, hence he hastened to his room.
+
+"Have you heard the news, sir?" the Count said at once on seeing him.
+
+"What news, my lord?" the Major asked, in amazement, for he knew
+nothing.
+
+In fact, placed as he was at the extreme frontier of the kingdom, news,
+no matter its importance, only reached him, so to speak, by accident.
+
+"The Cardinal Minister is dead, sir. I have just learned it from a sure
+hand."
+
+"Oh!" said the Major, clasping his hands, for this death might cause
+him the loss of his place.
+
+"And," the Count added, coldly, "His Majesty King Louis XIII. is at
+death's door."
+
+"Great heaven, what a misfortune!" exclaimed the Governor.
+
+"This misfortune may be fortunate for you, sir," the Count resumed.
+
+"Fortunate! When I am menaced with the loss of my command! Alas, my
+lord, what will become of me if I am turned out of here?"
+
+"That might easily, happen," said the Count. "You have, sir, always
+been a great friend of the defunct Cardinal, and known as such."
+
+"That is, unhappily, too true," the Major muttered, quite out of
+countenance, and recognizing the truth of this affirmation.
+
+"There is, I think, an advantageous mode of arranging matters."
+
+"What is it, my lord? Speak, I implore you!"
+
+"It is this: listen to me carefully--what I am going to say is very
+serious for you."
+
+"I am listening, my lord."
+
+"Here is a letter all ready written for the Duc de Bellegarde. You
+will start at once for Paris, passing through Toulon, where you will
+cash this draft for 2000 livres, to cover your expenses. The Duke is
+sincerely attached to me. For my sake he will receive you kindly: you
+will come to an understanding with him, and obey him in everything he
+orders."
+
+"Yes, yes, my lord."
+
+"And if within a month from this time at the latest--"
+
+"From this time at the latest--" the Governor repeated, panting with
+impatience.
+
+"You bring me here my full and entire--pardon, signed by H. M. Louis
+XIII.--"
+
+"What?" the Governor exclaimed, with a start of surprise.
+
+"I will at once pay you," the Count continued, coldly, "the sum of
+50,000 livres, to indemnify you for the loss my liberation must entail
+on you."
+
+"Fifty thousand livres!" the Major exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with
+greed.
+
+"Fifty thousand! yes, sir," the Count replied. "And, besides, I pledge
+myself, if you wish it, to get you confirmed in your command. Is this
+matter settled?"
+
+"But, my lord, how am I to manage at Paris?"
+
+"Follow the instructions the Duc de Bellegarde will give you."
+
+"What you ask of me is very difficult."
+
+"Not so difficult as you pretend to believe, sir; however, if this
+mission does not suit you--"
+
+"I did not say that, sir."
+
+"In a word, you can take it or leave it."
+
+"I take it, my lord--I take it. Great heaven!--fifty thousand livres!"
+
+"And you start?"
+
+"Tomorrow."
+
+"No, tonight."
+
+"Very good--tonight."
+
+"All right! Here are the letter and the draft. Oh! by the way, try to
+put yourself in communication with a fisherman at Antibes of the name
+of Michael."
+
+"I know him," the Major said, with a smile.
+
+"Indeed!" said the Count. "There would be no harm, either, in your
+trying to find the exempt who brought me here, one Francois Bouillot."
+
+"I know where to find him," the Major replied, with the same meaning
+smile.
+
+"Very good! in that case, my dear Governor, I have nothing more to add,
+or any recommendations to make to you, beyond wishing you a pleasant
+journey."
+
+"It will be so, my lord, I pledge you my word."
+
+"It is true that it is a round sum--fifty thousand livres!"
+
+"I shall not forget the amount."
+
+After saying this the Major took leave of his prisoner, and retired,
+with a profusion of bows.
+
+"I believe that I am going to be free this time!" the Count exclaimed,
+so soon as he was alone--"Ah! my lord Duke, we are now about to fight
+with equal weapons!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+MAJOR DE L'OURSIERE.
+
+
+Had it been possible for Count de Barmont to notice through the thick
+oak planks, lined with iron, that formed the door of his prison, the
+face of the governor on leaving him, he would not have chanted victory
+so loudly, or believed himself so near his deliverance.
+
+In fact, so soon as the Major had no longer cause to dread his
+prisoner's clear-sighted glance, his features immediately assumed an
+expression of cynical malice impossible to render; his half-closed eyes
+flashed with a gloomy fire beneath his grey eyelids and an ironical
+smile raised the corners of his pale thin lips.
+
+It was twilight; night was beginning to fall, and confound all objects,
+by burying them in a dark pall, which momentarily grew denser.
+
+The Major returned to his apartments, put a heavy cloak on his
+shoulders, pulled his hat over his eyes, and sent for his lieutenant.
+
+The latter presented himself at once.
+
+He was a man of about forty, with a delicate and intelligent face,
+whose features were imprinted with gentleness and even kindness.
+
+"I am starting this moment, sir," the governor said to him, "for
+Antibes, whither important business summons me; my absence will
+probably be prolonged for several days. While I remain absent from the
+castle, I invest you with the command; watch over its safety, and guard
+against any attempted escape on the part of the prisoner, though I
+doubt his making it. Such attempts, though they do not succeed, injure
+the reputation of a fortress, and the character of its governor."
+
+"I will watch with the greatest care, sir!"
+
+"I am certain of that, sir. Is there any fishing boat in the roads?
+I should prefer not using the boat belonging to the fortress, as the
+garrison is so weak."
+
+"The fishing boat you generally use, sir, and which is commanded by one
+Michael, I think, was alongside the quay hardly an hour ago, but he has
+probably started to fish outside the reef, as he usually does."
+
+"Hum," said the Major, "even were he still there, I should scruple at
+making the poor fellow lose so much time in putting me ashore. These
+fishermen are not rich, and every minute you take from them makes them
+lose a part of the trifling profit of a long and hard night's work."
+
+The officer bowed, apparently sharing his chief's philanthropic ideas,
+although his face evidenced the surprise which the expression of such
+sentiments by a man like the Major caused him.
+
+"Are there no other boats here?" the Major asked, affecting an air of
+indifference.
+
+"I beg your pardon, sir, a smuggling lugger is just about putting out
+to sea."
+
+"Very good; warn the master that I wish him to take me on board. Be
+good enough to make haste, sir, for I am in a hurry."
+
+The officer withdrew to carry out the order given him; the Major took
+some papers, doubtless important, from an iron casket, hid them under
+his coat, wrapped himself in his cloak, and left the castle, under the
+salute of the sentries who presented arms as he passed.
+
+"Well?" he asked the officer who came to meet him.
+
+"I have spoken to the master, sir, he awaits you," the other replied.
+
+"I thank you, sir; now, return to the castle, and watch carefully over
+its safety till my return."
+
+The officer took leave, and the Major proceeded toward a sort of small
+quay, where the lugger's yawl was waiting for him.
+
+So soon as the governor was aboard, the smuggler let go the hawser, and
+set sail.
+
+When the light vessel was well under weigh, the master respectfully
+walked up to the Major.
+
+"Where are we to steer?" he asked, as he doffed his woollen nightcap.
+
+"Ah, ah! is it you, Master Nicaud?" the governor said; for, accustomed
+to have dealings with the smugglers, he knew most of them by their
+names.
+
+"Myself, at your service, if I can do anything, Mr. Governor," the
+master answered politely.
+
+"Tell me," said the Major, "would you like to earn ten louis?"
+
+The sailor burst into a hearty laugh.
+
+"You are joking with me, of course, Mr. Governor," he said.
+
+"Not at all," the Major went on, "and the proof is, here they are,"
+he added, as he drew from his pocket a handful of gold, which he
+carelessly tossed in his hand; "I am therefore awaiting your answer."
+
+"Hang it, Mr. Governor, you are well aware that ten louis forms a very
+fine lump of money for a poor fellow like me; I am most willing to earn
+the canaries, what must I do for them?"
+
+"Well, a very simple thing! take me to St. Honorat, where I feel
+inclined for a stroll."
+
+"At this time of night?" the master remarked in surprise.
+
+The Major bit his lips on perceiving that he had made a foolish remark.
+
+"I am very fond of the picturesque, and wish to enjoy the effect of the
+convent ruins in the moonlight."
+
+"That is an idea like any other," the skipper answered; "and as you pay
+me, Mr. Governor, I can have no objection."
+
+"That is true. Then you will take me to Saint Honorat, land me in your
+boat, and stand off and on while waiting for me. Is that agreed?"
+
+"Perfectly."
+
+"Ah! I have a decided taste for solitude, and hence I must insist on
+none of your men landing on the island while I am there."
+
+"The whole crew shall remain on board, I promise you."
+
+"All right, I trust to you, here is the money."
+
+"Thanks," said the skipper, pocketing it; then he said to the steerer,
+"down with the helm," and added, "Hilloh, my lads, brace the sheets to
+larboard."
+
+The vessel quickly came up to the wind, and leaped over the waves in
+the direction of Saint Honorat, whose black outlines stood out on the
+horizon.
+
+It is but a short passage between Saint Marguerite and Saint Honorat,
+especially for such a clipper as the smuggling lugger.
+
+The vessel was soon off the island.
+
+The master lay to, and ordered a boat to be let down.
+
+"Mr. Governor," he said respectfully, doffing his cap, and stopping the
+governor, who was walking up and down in the stern; "we are all ready,
+and the boat waits for you."
+
+"Already! All the better," the latter answered.
+
+At the moment when he was going to get into the boat, the skipper
+arrested him.
+
+"Have you pistols?" he asked him.
+
+"Pistols?" he said as he turned round, "What for? is not this island
+deserted?"
+
+"Entirely."
+
+"Hence I can run no risk."
+
+"Not the slightest; hence that is not the reason why I asked you the
+question."
+
+"What is it then?"
+
+"Hang it, it is as black as in the fiend's oven; there is no moon, you
+cannot distinguish an object ten yards from you. How shall I know when
+you want to come on board again, unless you warn me by a signal?"
+
+"That is true; what had I better do?"
+
+"Here is a pistol, it is not loaded, but there is powder in the pan,
+and you can squib it."
+
+"Thanks," said the Major, taking the pistol, and thrusting it through
+his girdle.
+
+He got into the boat, which was dancing on the waves, and sat down in
+the stern sheets; four vigorous sailors bending over the oars made her
+fly through the water.
+
+"A pleasant trip," the skipper shouted.
+
+It appeared to the Major as if this wish had been uttered with a very
+marked ironical tone by Master Nicaud, but he attached no further
+importance to it, and turned his eyes toward land, which was gradually
+looming larger.
+
+Ere long the boat's bows grated on the sand; they had arrived.
+
+The Major went ashore, and after ordering the sailors to return aboard,
+he drew his cloak over his face, went off with long steps, and soon
+disappeared in the darkness.
+
+However, instead of obeying the injunction given them, three of the
+sailors landed in their turn, and followed the Major at a distance,
+while careful to keep themselves out of sight. The fourth, who remained
+to keep the boat, hid the latter behind a point, secured it to a
+projecting rock, and leaping ashore, fusil in hand, he remained on the
+watch with his eyes fixed on the interior of the island.
+
+The Major, in the meanwhile, continued to advance hurriedly in the
+direction of the ruins, whose imposing outline was already beginning
+to present itself to his eyes, borrowing from the surrounding gloom a
+still more imposing aspect.
+
+The Major, convinced that his orders had been punctually carried out,
+for he had no motive to distrust Master Nicaud, whom he had ever and
+under all circumstances found willing and faithful, walked on without
+turning his head, or even taking precautions, which he considered
+unnecessary, as he was far from suspecting that several men were
+following his footsteps, and watching his movements.
+
+It was easy to see from the deliberate manner in which he walked, and
+the facility with which he evaded obstacles and found his way in the
+darkness, that this was not the first time the Major had come to this
+spot, though it appeared so solitary and deserted.
+
+After entering the ruins, M. de l'Oursiere passed through a cloister,
+encumbered with shapeless fragments, and forcing his way between
+stones and brambles, he entered the chapel, a magnificent specimen of
+the purest Roman style, whose crumbling roof had fallen in under the
+incessant efforts of time, and only the choir and apse still remained
+intact amid broken columns and desecrated altars.
+
+The Major passed through the choir, and reached the apse, where he
+halted.
+
+After carefully examining for a moment the surrounding objects, as if
+he expected to find someone or something he did not perceive, he at
+length resolved to clap his hands thrice.
+
+At the same moment a man rose scarce two paces from him.
+
+This sudden apparition, though he fully expected it, made the Major
+start, and he fell back a step, laying his hand on his sword.
+
+"Ah, ah, my master," the stranger said, in a mocking voice, "pray do
+you take me for a spectre, that I cause you such terror?"
+
+The man was wrapped up in a thick cloak, whose folds concealed his
+shape, while a broad leafed plumed hat entirely covered his face and
+rendered him completely unrecognizable. Only the end of his cloak
+raised by the scabbard of a long rapier, proved that whoever the man
+might be, he had not come unarmed to this gloomy rendezvous.
+
+"I am at your orders, sir," the Major said, raising his hand to his
+hat, but without removing it.
+
+"And ready to serve me, no doubt," the stranger resumed.
+
+"That depends," the Major remarked roughly, "times are no longer the
+same."
+
+"Ah, ah," the stranger continued still sarcastically, "what news is
+there? I shall be delighted to learn it of you."
+
+"You know it as well as I do, sir."
+
+"No matter, tell me all the same what the great news is, that thus
+produces modifications in our relations which have hitherto been so
+amicable?"
+
+"It is useless to jeer thus, sir; I have served you, you have paid me,
+and we are quits."
+
+"Perhaps so, but go on. I presume you wish to propose a new bargain to
+me?"
+
+"I have nothing to propose; I have merely come because you expressed a
+desire to see me, that is all."
+
+"And your prisoner, are you still satisfied with him?"
+
+"More than ever. He is a charming gentleman, who does not at all
+deserve the melancholy fate thrust on him; I really feel an interest in
+him."
+
+"Confound it, that comes expensive, I did not take that interest into
+account, and I was wrong, I see."
+
+"What do you mean, sir?" the Major protested with an indignant air.
+
+"Nothing but what I say to you, my dear sir. Hang it, you amuse me with
+your scruples, after taking money from all parties during the last
+eighteen months; the Cardinal is dead and the King is on the point of
+following him, that is what you wished to tell me, is it not? A new
+reign is preparing, and it is probable that, if only through a spirit
+of contradiction, the new government will upset everything done by
+the one that preceded it, and that its first care will be to open the
+prison doors; you also wished to tell me that Count de Barmont, who
+possesses warm friends at court, who will not fail to employ their
+influence on his behalf, cannot fail to be set at liberty ere long.
+Confusion, I knew all that as well and even better than you, but what
+matter?"
+
+"How, what matter?"
+
+"Certainly, if Count de Barmont has devoted friends, he has implacable
+enemies; bear that in mind."
+
+"And the result will be?"
+
+"That in four days at the latest, you will receive an order signed by
+Louis XIII. himself."
+
+"To what effect?"
+
+"Oh! Good heaven, no great thing, except that Count de Barmont will
+be immediately transferred from St. Marguerite to the Bastille; and
+once there," he added in a hollow voice, which made the Major shudder
+involuntarily, "a man is eternally erased from the number of the living
+or only leaves it a corpse or a maniac. Do you comprehend me now?"
+
+"Yes, I understand you, sir; but who guarantees that the Count will not
+have escaped before the four days to which you refer?"
+
+"Oh! With a governor like yourself, Major, such an eventuality seems to
+me highly improbable."
+
+"Well, well," the Major observed, "very extraordinary tales are told
+about the escape of prisoners."
+
+"That is true; but another thing reassures me against this escape."
+
+"And what is that, sir?"
+
+"Merely that the Count himself declared that he would never consent to
+escape, and was not at all anxious about liberty."
+
+"Well, sir, that is the very thing that deceives you; it seems that
+he has now changed his opinion, and is eagerly soliciting through his
+friends to obtain his liberty."
+
+"Ah! Have we come to that point?" the stranger said, fixing on the
+Major a glance which flashed through the gloom.
+
+The governor bowed.
+
+There was a silence, during which no other sound was audible, save that
+of the heavy flight of the nocturnal birds in the ruins.
+
+"A truce to further chattering," the stranger resumed in a fierce
+voice; "how much do you ask to prevent the prisoner escaping until the
+king's order reaches you?"
+
+"Two hundred thousand livres," the Major answered roughly.
+
+"Was I not right in telling you that it would be expensive?" the
+stranger said with a grin.
+
+"Dear or not, that is my price, and I shall not bate it."
+
+"Very good, you shall have it."
+
+"When?"
+
+"Tomorrow."
+
+"That will be too late."
+
+"What?" the stranger asked haughtily.
+
+"I said it would be too late," the Major repeated imperturbably.
+
+"In that case, when must you have it?"
+
+"At once."
+
+"Do you fancy I carry 200,000 livres about me?"
+
+"I do not say that, but I can accompany you where you are going, and on
+reaching Antibes, we will say, you can pay me the amount."
+
+"That is a good plan."
+
+"Is it not?"
+
+"Yes, only there is an obstacle to its success."
+
+"I do not see one."
+
+"But I do."
+
+"What is it, sir?"
+
+"That, if I give you a meeting here, and come disguised and alone, I
+have probably an object."
+
+"Of course! You wish to remain incog."
+
+"You are full of penetration, my dear sir; and yet we can come to an
+understanding."
+
+"I do not see how, unless you consent to what I ask."
+
+"You are a judge of diamonds, since we have hitherto only bargained in
+them."
+
+"That is true, I am a tolerable judge of them."
+
+"Here is one that is worth 100,000 crowns, take it."
+
+And he offered a small case of black shagreen.
+
+The Major eagerly seized it.
+
+"But," he objected, "how can I be certain that you are not deceiving
+me?"
+
+"An affecting confession," the stranger observed laughingly.
+
+"Business is business, I risk my soul in serving you."
+
+"As for your soul, my dear sir, reassure yourself; in that quarter you
+have nothing to risk. But I will give you the satisfaction you desire."
+
+And taking a dark lanthorn from under his cloak, he let the light play
+on the diamond.
+
+The Major only required one glance to assure himself of the value of
+the rich reward offered him.
+
+"Are you satisfied?" the stranger asked, as he placed the lanthorn
+again under his cloak.
+
+"Here is the proof," the Major answered, as he concealed the box, and
+handed him a bundle of papers.
+
+"What is this?" the stranger inquired.
+
+"Papers of great importance for you, in the sense that they will tell
+you who the Count's friends are, and the means they can employ to
+restore him to liberty."
+
+"Bravo!" the stranger exclaimed, as he eagerly took the bundle of
+papers; "I no longer regret having paid so heavy a price for your
+assistance. Now we have discussed every point, I think?"
+
+"I think so too."
+
+"In that case, farewell! When I want you, I will let you know."
+
+"Are you going already?"
+
+"What the deuce would you have me do longer in this owl's nest? It is
+time for each of us to rejoin the persons waiting for us."
+
+And after giving the Major a slight wave of the hand, he turned away
+and disappeared behind the ruins of the high altar.
+
+At the same moment the stranger was suddenly seized by several men, so
+that not only was he unable to offer a useless resistance, but found
+himself bound and gagged before he had recovered from the surprise this
+attack had caused him.
+
+His silent aggressors then left him rolling on the ground with
+convulsive bounds of impotent rage, and disappeared in the darkness
+without paying any further attention to him.
+
+The Major, after a momentary hesitation, also resolved to leave the
+place, and slowly proceeded in the direction of the shore. On arriving
+within a certain distance, in obedience to skipper Nicaud's hint, he
+cocked his pistol and flashed the powder in the pan; then he continued
+to advance slowly.
+
+The boat had doubtless made haste to meet him, for at the same moment
+as the Major reached the shore, its bows ran into the sand.
+
+The governor stepped silently into it; twenty minutes after he
+found himself on board the lugger, where master Nicaud received him
+respectfully cap in hand.
+
+The boat was hauled up to the davits, sail was set on the lugger, and
+she stood out to sea before a fresh breeze.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+THE SEAGULL LUGGER.
+
+
+A lugger is a three mast vessel, with narrow lines aft and bulging
+bows; it has a foremast, mainmast, and a driver greatly inclined over
+the stern; its bowsprit is short; it carries large sails and at times
+topsails.
+
+From this description it is easy to see that luggers have the same rig,
+on a larger scale, as chasse-marees.
+
+Although the draft on water of these vessels is rather great aft, as
+they are generally quick and good sea boats, they are largely employed
+for smuggling purposes, in spite of the inconvenience of the large
+sails which have to be shifted with each tack.
+
+The Seagull was a vessel of ninety tons, neatly fitted up, and carrying
+four small iron guns of eight to the pound, which caused her to bear a
+greater resemblance with a corsair than a peaceful coaster.
+
+Still, in spite of a rather numerous crew, and her rakish appearance,
+during about a year since this vessel began frequenting the coast of
+Provence and the Lerins islands, not a word of harm had been said
+against her. Skipper Nicaud passed for an honest worthy man, although a
+little rough and quarrelsome,--faults, by the way, peculiar to nearly
+all sailors, and which in no way diminished the excellent reputation
+which the master of the Seagull enjoyed.
+
+So soon as Major de l'Oursiere had regained the lugger's deck, and the
+vessel had stood off, after taking a parting glance at St. Honorat,
+whose outline was gradually disappearing in the mist, he walked aft,
+seized the manrope and went down into the cabin.
+
+But on entering the cabin, which he supposed to be unoccupied, as
+the skipper was on deck, the Major with difficulty restrained an
+exclamation of surprise.
+
+There was a man in the cabin, seated at a table, and contently imbibing
+rum and water, while smoking an enormous pipe, and forming an aureole
+around him of bluish smoke.
+
+In this man the Major recognised Michael the Basque, the fisherman.
+
+After a moment's hesitation, the Major walked in, although the presence
+of this individual aboard the lugger was rather singular. Still there
+was nothing in the thing that should terrify the Major, who had no
+reason to suppose that Michael was hostile to him, or that he had
+anything to apprehend from him.
+
+At the noise made by the Major on entering the cabin, the sailor half
+turned to him, though without removing the pipe from his lips. After
+taking a pull at the glass he held in his right hand, he said in a
+bantering tone,--
+
+"Why, if I am not mistaken, it is our estimable governor of St.
+Marguerite; delighted to see you, I am sure, Major."
+
+"Why," the Major replied, in the same key, "it's that worthy fellow,
+Michael. By what chance do I find you here, when I had a right to
+suppose you engaged fishing, at this moment, Lord knows where?"
+
+"Ah!" said Michael, with a laugh; "There's as good fishing here
+as anywhere. Won't you take a seat, Major, or are you afraid of
+compromising your dignity by sitting down by the side of a poor fellow
+like me?"
+
+"You do not think that," the Major answered, as he seated himself.
+
+"Don't you smoke, eh?" Michael asked him.
+
+"No; that is a sailor's amusement."
+
+"It is so, Major. But I suppose you drink?"
+
+The Major held out a glass, which the sailor liberally filled.
+
+"Here's your health, Major. If I expected to meet anyone, it wasn't
+you, I assure you."
+
+"I thought so."
+
+"Indeed I didn't."
+
+"Well, to tell you the truth, I did not expect to meet you, either."
+
+"I am aware of that. You have come from St. Honorat."
+
+"Hang it all! You cannot be ignorant of that fact, since I find you
+here."
+
+"It was on your account, then, that we lost two hours in tacking
+between the islands, at the risk of running on to a reef, instead of
+attending to our business?"
+
+"What do you mean by business? Are you a smuggler at present?"
+
+"I am everything," Michael replied, laconically, emptying his glass.
+
+"But what the deuce are you doing here?" asked the Major.
+
+"What are you?" the sailor said, answering one question by another.
+
+"I--I?" the Major began, in embarrassment.
+
+"You hesitate!" Michael continued, banteringly. "Well, I will tell you,
+if you like."
+
+"You, Michael?"
+
+"Why not? You went to St. Honorat to admire the beauties of nature,"
+and he burst into a hearty laugh. "Is it not so?"
+
+"Yes. I have always passionately admired the picturesque. But that
+reminds me. I have forgotten to tell skipper Nicaud where I wish him to
+land me."
+
+And he made a movement, as if to rise.
+
+"It is unnecessary," the sailor said, obliging him to sit down again.
+
+"How? Unnecessary! On the contrary, I must do it, without further
+delay."
+
+"Still you have time, Major," the sailor said, peremptorily; "besides,
+I must speak with you first."
+
+"You speak with me?" the Major exclaimed, in stupefaction.
+
+"So it is, Major," the other replied, sarcastically. "I have very
+important matters to tell you. In your devil of a castle that is
+impossible, because you have there a number of soldiers and gaolers,
+who, at your slightest frown, interrupt the person addressing you, and
+throw him without ceremony into some hole, where they unscrupulously
+leave him to rot. That is discouraging, on my honour. But here it is
+far more agreeable, as I am not afraid that you will have me locked up
+--at least, not for the present. Hence, as the opportunity offers, I
+wish to take advantage of it to empty my budget, and tell you what I
+have on my heart."
+
+The Major felt internally anxious, without yet knowing positively what
+he had to fear, so extraordinary to him seemed this way of speaking
+on the part of a sailor, who had hitherto always displayed a servile
+politeness toward him. Still, he did not allow anything of this to be
+seen, but leaned carelessly over the table.
+
+"Very good, let us talk, since you feel so great an inclination for
+it, my good Michael; for I have time, as I am in no hurry."
+
+The sailor made his chair turn half round on its hind legs, and finding
+himself by this movement right facing M. de l'Oursiere, he examined him
+cunningly, for an instant, then drained the contents of his glass; and,
+after banging the empty glass on the table, he said,--
+
+"It is really a charming passion of yours, Major, to go thus at night
+to admire the ruins of the convent of St. Honorat in the darkness. It
+is, really, a charming passion, and a very profitable one, from what I
+have been able to learn."
+
+"What do you mean?" the Major asked, turning pale.
+
+"I mean what I say, nothing else! Do you believe in hazard, Major?"
+
+"Why--"
+
+"No more, I fancy, in that which makes me meet you here, than in the
+chance that makes you find on a desert island diamonds worth three
+hundred thousand livres; because the one thing is as impossible as the
+other?"
+
+This time the Major did not attempt to reply, for he felt he was caught
+out.
+
+Michael continued in the same sneering and bantering tone--
+
+"It is certainly ingenious to act as you do. A man soon grows rich by
+taking with both hands, but like all trades that are too good, this one
+is rather risky."
+
+"You insult me, scoundrel!" the Major stammered. "Take care what you
+say. If I call--"
+
+"Come, come," the sailor interrupted, with a coarse laugh; "I do not
+intend to notice the insult you cast in my teeth, for I have something
+else to do. As for calling out, just try it, and you will see what
+will happen."
+
+"That--that is treachery!"
+
+"Hang it! Are we not all more or less traitors? You are one--I am one;
+that is allowed: hence, believe me, it is useless to dwell any longer
+on this subject, and we had better revert to our business."
+
+"Speak," the Major muttered in a gloomy voice.
+
+"But, stay. I wish to give you a proof of frankness, and show you once
+for all how wrong you would be in keeping up, I will not say the least
+hope, but the slightest illusion as to what is going on here."
+
+Then, tapping the table smartly with the heel of his glass, he
+shouted,--
+
+"Come here, Nicaud, I want you."
+
+A heavy step resounded on the cabin stairs, and almost immediately
+Skipper Nicaud's cunning face was framed by the doorway.
+
+"What do you want, Michael?" he asked, without seeming even to notice
+the Major's presence.
+
+"Only a trifle, my lad," the sailor replied, pointing to the officer,
+who had turned pale, through the emotion he felt. "Only a simple
+question for the personal satisfaction of this gentleman."
+
+"Speak."
+
+"Who is the present commander of the Seagull lugger, in whose cabin we
+are now seated?"
+
+"Why, you, of course."
+
+"Then everyone aboard, yourself included, must obey me?"
+
+"Certainly; and without the slightest observation."
+
+"Very good. Then supposing, Nicaud, I were to order you to take the
+Major here present, fasten a couple of round shot to his feet, and
+throw him overboard, what would you do, my lad?"
+
+"What would I do?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Obey."
+
+"Without any observation?"
+
+Skipper Nicaud shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Shall I do it?" he asked, stretching out his huge fist towards the
+Major, who shuddered.
+
+"Not yet," Michael answered. "Go back on deck, but do not go far, as I
+shall probably want you soon."
+
+"Very good," said the master, and disappeared.
+
+"Are you now edified, Major?" Michael asked, turning carelessly to the
+horrified governor; "And are you not beginning to understand that I,
+poor chap as I am, compared with you, have you, temporarily, at any
+rate, completely in my power?"
+
+"I allow it," the Major stammered, in a faint and choking voice.
+
+"In that case, I believe we shall come to an understanding."
+
+"Come to the facts, sir, without further circumlocution."
+
+"Good!" Michael exclaimed, coarsely; "That's how I like to see you. In
+the first place, hand me the diamond which your accomplice gave you in
+the ruins."
+
+"Then you mean robbery. I had hoped better things of you," the Major
+answered, disdainfully.
+
+"Call it what you like, Major," the sailor said imperturbably; "the
+name does not alter the thing--give me the diamond."
+
+"No," the Major answered coldly, "the diamond is my fortune, and you
+shall only have it with my life."
+
+"That condition, illogical though it is, will not check me, I assure
+you, for I will kill you, if necessary, and then take the diamond," and
+he cocked a pistol.
+
+There was a silence.
+
+"Well, then, it is really this diamond you want?"
+
+"That and something else," said Michael.
+
+"I do not understand you."
+
+The sailor rose, placed the pistol to his chest, and said frowningly--
+
+"I will make you understand me."
+
+The Major felt he was lost, and that this man would kill him.
+
+"Stop!" he said.
+
+"Have you decided?"
+
+"Yes," he answered, in a voice choked with rage, and drawing the box
+from his bosom, he muttered, "Curse you, take it!"
+
+Michael returned the pistol to his belt, opened the box, and
+attentively examined the diamond.
+
+"It is the one," he said, as he closed the box again, and stowed it
+away.
+
+The unlucky officer followed all these movements with a lack-lustre eye.
+
+Michael resumed his seat, poured himself out a glass of rum, swallowed
+it at a draught, and then bending forward as he filled his pipe, said--
+
+"Now, let us talk."
+
+"What, talk?" asked the Major; "Have we not finished yet?"
+
+"Not yet--what a hurry you are in. At present we have said nothing."
+
+"What more do you want of me?"
+
+"That is meant for a reproach; but I allow for your ill temper, and
+owe you no grudge for it. It is a sad thing for a man who has been
+poor all his life to see himself robbed in a moment of a fortune which
+he had only just secured. Well, then, listen to me, Major," he said,
+assuming a consolatory air, and putting his elbows on the table, "it is
+easy for you to regain the fortune you have lost, and it only depends
+on yourself."
+
+The Major opened his eyes widely, not knowing whether to take what the
+sailor said to him seriously; but as he risked nothing by permitting an
+explanation, he prepared to give him the most earnest attention.
+
+The other continued--
+
+"No matter how I learned the fact--I know for certain, and the affair
+of the diamond is an undeniable proof of it--that, while on one hand,
+you feigned to feel the greatest interest for Count de Barmont, from
+whom you have drawn large sums, though I don't say it in reproach, by
+means of this feigned pity; on the other, you betray him without shame
+to his enemies, whom you make pay for it heavily. I merely mention this
+as a fact, and it is unnecessary to discuss it," Michael said, checking
+the Major, who was about to speak. "Now, I have made up my mind that,
+against wind and tide, and in spite of all the intrigues of his enemies
+to prevent it, the Count shall be free, and free through me. This is my
+plan: listen attentively to this, Mr. Governor, for the affair concerns
+you' more nearly than you seem to suppose. The Count has learnt the
+death of Cardinal de Richelieu, and I sent him the news in a letter
+from the Duc de Bellegarde. You see that I know everything, or nearly
+so: he at once requested to see you, and you granted his wish. What
+took place at your interview? Speak, and before all, be frank: in my
+turn, I will listen to you."
+
+"Of what use is it to repeat our conversation?" the Major asked,
+ironically.
+
+"For my private satisfaction," Michael answered, "and your special
+interest: do not be in too great a hurry to rejoice, Major, for you are
+not out of my hands yet. Believe me, you had better yield with a good
+grace, for your interest demands it."
+
+"My interest?" he repeated, in amazement.
+
+"Go on, Major; when the time arrives, be assured, I shall give you the
+explanation you desire."
+
+The old officer reflected for a moment: at last he decided to speak,
+resolved, if the opportunity offered itself hereafter, to make the
+sailor pay dearly for all his agony and humiliation.
+
+"The Count," he said, "engaged me to go to Paris, and negotiate with
+the Duc de Bellegarde, in order to bring him back his order of release,
+which the duke is certain to obtain from the king."
+
+"That is good. And when do you intend to start for Paris?"
+
+"I have started."
+
+"Ah! Ah!" said Michael, with a laugh. "It appears that you have stopped
+on the road, but that has nothing to do with the affair. Is that all?"
+
+"Nearly so."
+
+"Hum! then there is something else?"
+
+"Less than nothing."
+
+"No matter--out with it, for I am very curious. Did not the Count
+promise you something?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How much?"
+
+"Fifty thousand livres," the Major said, with repugnance.
+
+"Ah, ah, that is a tidy sum! And you were setting about earning it in
+a strange fashion; but I do not wish to refer to that any more. Do
+you wish to recover your diamond, and at the same time gain the fifty
+thousand livres promised by the Count? Speak, it depends on yourself."
+
+"You are jesting with me, and not speaking seriously."
+
+"Never, on the contrary, have I been more serious. On the Count's
+arrival at the castle you command, you were only a poor scrub of an
+officer of fortune, who, during his whole life, had been struggling
+against odds, and perched like an owl on an old wall, you were exposed
+on your isle to die as you had lived; that is to say, without a rap.
+During the last fifteen or eighteen months, things have completely
+changed with you. With what you have extorted from the Count, and what
+his enemies have given you, you have succeeded in getting together a
+very decent sum. Admitting that you were to receive the Count's fifty
+thousand livres, and I were to give you back the diamond, it would
+produce you a perfectly independent fortune, enabling you to retire
+when you pleased, and end your days in joy and abundance. Is not that
+your opinion?"
+
+"Certainly, but I shall not touch the 50,000 livres, and the diamond
+you have taken from me."
+
+"That is true, but," he added, "it is only dependent on yourself,
+Major, to have it again in your possession."
+
+"What must I do for that?"
+
+"That is what I was waiting for, Major; you consent then, to enter into
+an arrangement?"
+
+"I must; have I my free will at this moment?"
+
+"A man always has it when he likes, Major, you know that as well as I
+do; the only thing is, that as you are a man endowed with a strong dose
+of intelligence, and understand, that when a person has made a fortune
+by means more or less honourable, he must keep it at all hazards, you
+are beginning to lend a more attentive ear to the propositions which
+you guess I am preparing to make you, for you are at length convinced
+that it is to your interest to come to an understanding with me."
+
+"Suppose what you like, I do not care; but tell me your propositions,
+so that I may know whether my honour allows me to accept them or forces
+me to refuse them."
+
+Michael began laughing unceremoniously at this outburst, by which the
+Major sought to mask his capitulation.
+
+"Instead of going to Paris," he said, "you will simply return to Sainte
+Marguerite. You will go to the Count, tell him he is free, and then
+return with him on board the lugger, which will wait for you. When the
+Count and yourself are on board, the lugger will stand out to sea.
+Then I will restore you your diamond and pay you the amount agreed on;
+and as probably you will not care to resume the command of your castle
+after such a frolic, I will convey you, and your wealth wherever you
+like, in order to enjoy it without fear of being disturbed."
+
+"But," the Major observed, "what shall I tell the Count to persuade him
+that he is free by the King's orders?"
+
+"That does not concern me, it is your affair; but hang it all, my dear
+Major, you are unjust to yourself in raising any doubts as to the power
+of your imagination. Now what do you think of my proposition, and do
+you accept it?"
+
+"What security have I that you are not deceiving me, and that when I
+have fulfilled the conditions of the bargain you impose on me, you keep
+yours as strictly?"
+
+"The word of a honest man, sir, a word, which though that of a plain
+sailor, is worth that of a gentleman."
+
+"I believe you, sir," the Major answered, lowering his eyes before
+Michael's flashing glance.
+
+"Then, that is settled?"
+
+"Yes, it is."
+
+"All right. Hallo! Nicaud!" Michael shouted.
+
+The skipper arrived with a speed that proved he had not been far from
+the two speakers.
+
+"Here I am, Michael, what do you want?"
+
+"Where are we at this moment?" the sailor asked.
+
+"About five leagues to windward of Sainte Marguerite."
+
+"Very good! Keep on the same course till daybreak; at sunrise we will
+stand for the island, and anchor off it."
+
+"Very good, I understand."
+
+"Ah! Here is Mr. Governor, who I think, has great want of a little
+rest; can't you put him up somewhere where he will be able to sleep for
+two or three hours?"
+
+"Nothing easier, as I shall not turn in tonight, nor you, I suppose,
+my cabin is at the Major's service, if he will do me the honour of
+accepting it."
+
+The old officer was really worn out, not only by the fatigue of a long
+watch, but also by the emotions he had suffered from during the night.
+Certain that he had now no apprehensions about his safety, he heartily
+accepted the skipper's offer, and withdrew into the cabin, the door of
+which the other politely opened for him.
+
+The two sailors went up on deck again.
+
+"This time," said Michael, "I believe that we have manoeuvred cleverly,
+and that our plan will succeed."
+
+"I am beginning to be of your opinion; but I say, wasn't that old
+cormorant of a governor tough?"
+
+"Not very," Michael replied with a laugh, "besides, he had no choice;
+he was obliged to give in, whether he liked it or not."
+
+As had been arranged, the lugger stood off and on from the island
+during the whole night, at a distance of from four to five leagues from
+the coast.
+
+At sunrise, they steered directly for St. Marguerite.
+
+The breeze had lulled nearer shore, so that it occupied some time ere
+the light vessel reached the species of port serving as a landing place
+in front of the castle.
+
+The lugger drew too much water for it to be possible to run alongside
+the quay; hence it lay to a short distance off; and Nicaud had a boat
+lowered, while Michael went down into the cabin to warn the Major.
+
+The latter was awake; refreshed and rested by sleep, he was no longer
+the same man, he now regarded his position in its true light, and
+understood that the means offered him to escape from the disagreeable
+position in which he was placed by his double treachery, was more
+advantageous than otherwise for him.
+
+It was almost with a smile that he wished Michael good day, and he made
+no difficulty about accepting the hand the sailor offered to him.
+
+"Well," he asked him, "whereabouts are we, Michael?"
+
+"We have arrived, Major."
+
+"Already? Are you not afraid it is too early to go ashore?"
+
+"Not at all; it is nine o'clock."
+
+"So late? Hang it, it seems that I have slept soundly; in truth, I feel
+quite jolly this morning."
+
+"All the better, Major, that is a good sign; I suppose you remember our
+arrangements?"
+
+"Perfectly."
+
+"And you will play fairly with us?"
+
+"In my turn I pledge my honour to it, and I will keep it, whatever may
+happen."
+
+"Come, I am glad to hear you talk like that; I am beginning to alter my
+opinion about you."
+
+"Stuff," the Major remarked laughingly, "you do not know me yet."
+
+"You are aware that the boat is ready, it is only waiting for you to go
+ashore."
+
+"If that is the case, I will follow you, Michael; I am now as eager as
+you are to finish the affair."
+
+The Major went on deck and got into the boat, which was at once pushed
+off, and set out for the landing place.
+
+Michael's heart beat ready to burst, while he followed with an anxious
+eye, the light yawl which was rapidly leaving the lugger, and was
+already close in shore.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+FRANCE, FAREWELL!
+
+
+The Major had scarce landed at Sainte Marguerite, ere everything were
+in commotion in the fort.
+
+On leaving the isle on the previous evening, the governor had stated
+that he was going on a journey, and would be absent a week, perhaps two.
+
+The Lieutenant, intrusted with the command of the fort during his
+absence, eagerly hastened to meet him, curious to learn the motive for
+such a speedy return.
+
+The Major at first replied evasively, that news he had received on
+landing on the mainland, had necessitated the immediate interruption
+of his journey; and, while conversing thus, he entered the fort and
+proceeded to his apartments, followed by the Lieutenant whom he had
+invited to accompany him.
+
+"Sir," he said to him so soon as they were alone, "you will immediately
+choose from the garrison ten resolute men; and proceed with them on
+board the fishing vessel I noticed at anchor when I entered the fort.
+The missive I entrust to you is most important, and if you carry it out
+thoroughly, may have important results for you; it must be managed with
+the most profound secrecy, however, for it is a secret of state."
+
+The Lieutenant bowed gratefully, evidently flattered at the confidence
+his chief placed in him.
+
+The Major continued.
+
+"You will land on the coast a little below Antibes, and keep the boat,
+which you will use for your return; you will manage so as not to enter
+the town till nightfall, without attracting any attention, you will
+lodge your men as best you can without arousing suspicions, but so as
+to have them under hand at any moment. Tomorrow morning at ten o'clock,
+you will present yourself to the town commandant, hand him a letter I
+shall give you, and place yourself at his disposal. Have you understood
+me thoroughly, sir?"
+
+"Perfectly, Mr. Governor."
+
+"Before all, I recommend you the most utter discretion; remember that
+your fortune probably depends on the success of the mission."
+
+"I will obey you, Major, and I hope that you will only have compliments
+to pay me on my return."
+
+"I trust so too, sir, but make haste, for you must be gone in half an
+hour. During your preparations I will write the letter; it will be
+ready when you come to take leave again."
+
+The lieutenant, after bowing respectfully, retired with a joyous heart,
+not having the slightest suspicion of the treachery meditated by his
+chief, and went off at full speed to make all the preparations for his
+departure.
+
+The Major had under his orders a garrison of fifty men, commanded by
+three officers, a captain and two lieutenants.
+
+This captain, the next in rank to him, would doubtless have greatly
+impeded the success of the bold stroke he meditated, owing to the
+pretext he would have been obliged to invent, in order to account for
+the want of a release in writing for the Count.
+
+By sending him away, the Major had only to deal with two subalterns,
+ranking too low in the military scale to venture to make observations,
+or hesitate to accomplish his orders, the more so, because during
+the ten or twelve years M. de l'Oursiere had commanded Fort Sainte
+Marguerite, nothing in his conduct had led to the slightest painful
+suspicions about his honour.
+
+Forced by circumstances to betray his duty and quit his native land
+forever, which he knew he should never see again after this audacious
+scheme, the Major wished to leave nothing to chance, but turn his lost
+position to the greatest possible advantage. He hoped that the measures
+he had taken would protect him from any danger, when his treachery was
+eventually discovered.
+
+But, through a very laudable feeling of justice, especially on the part
+of such a man and under such circumstances, the Major desired alone to
+bear the burden of his infamous conduct and not to attract suspicion of
+complicity on his poor officers, whom duty compelled to obey him, in
+what they considered a portion of their military service.
+
+Hence he wrote to the governor of Antibes a very circumstantial letter,
+in which he narrated, without the slightest omission, the treason he
+meditated, and which would be carried out at the time when the governor
+read the strange missive; he explained the motives that obliged him to
+act as he was doing, while taking on himself all the responsibility of
+such a deed, and acquitting his officers and soldiers, not only of all
+co-operation, but of all cognisance, even indirect, of his project.
+
+These duties scrupulously accomplished--for it was impossible for the
+governor to be deceived as to the frankness of his confession, or
+to doubt them for a moment--the Major folded the letter, sealed it
+carefully, and laid it on the table while awaiting the return of his
+second in command.
+
+Now, as his vessels were burnt, M. de l'Oursiere could no longer
+retreat; he must push on and succeed; the certainty of certain ruin if
+his scheme were foiled, removed his last doubts, and restored him all
+the necessary calmness to act with the coolness demanded by the strange
+circumstances in which he found himself placed.
+
+The Captain entered.
+
+"Well?" the Major asked him.
+
+"I am ready to start, Mr. Governor; my soldiers are already on board
+the fishing boat, and we shall have left the island in ten minutes."
+
+"Here is the letter you have to deliver into the hands of the Governor
+of Antibes, sir; remember my instructions."
+
+"I will obey them in every point."
+
+"In that case, Heaven guard you! and good-bye," the Major said, as he
+rose.
+
+The officer saluted, and left the room.
+
+The Major watched through the open window of his room; he saw him leave
+the fort, go down to the shore, and on board the fishing vessel; the
+sail was hoisted, and ere long the boat started, slightly heeling over
+under the power of the breeze.
+
+"Ough!" said the Major, closing the window, with a sigh of
+relief--"that's one, now for the other."
+
+But, before aught else, the old officer shut himself up in his room,
+burnt certain papers, pocketed others, put some clothes in a small
+valise, as he did not wish to take all belonging to him, through fear
+of arousing suspicions, and carefully wrapping up in his cloak a small
+and very heavy iron casket, which, doubtless, contained his ready
+money, he assured himself by a glance around that everything was in
+order, opened the door again, and called.
+
+A soldier appeared.
+
+"Beg Mess. de Castaix and de Mircey to come here," he said, "as I wish
+to speak to them."
+
+They speedily arrived, greatly puzzled at this unexpected interview,
+for usually the Governor talked but little with his officers.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said to them, after returning their salute, "an order
+from the King caused me to return here in all haste. I have to take our
+prisoner, M. de Barmont, to Antibes, where your Captain has preceded
+me with a sufficient escort to prevent any attempt at escape on the
+part of the prisoner. I have acted thus because it is the King's good
+pleasure that this transference of the Count from one prison to another
+may have the appearance of a liberation, and I shall explain it in that
+sense to the prisoner, in order that he may have no suspicion of the
+new orders I have received. Until my return, which will be in two days
+at the least, you, Monsieur de Castaix, as senior officer, will assume
+the command of the fortress. I am pleased to believe, gentlemen, that I
+shall only have to praise the aptitude you will display in performing
+your duties during my absence."
+
+The two officers bowed: accustomed to the Cardinal's tortuous and
+mysterious policy, the Major's remarks did not at all surprise them,
+for, although His Eminence was dead, the event had not occurred so
+long that the King should have in any way modified his sullen mode of
+governing.
+
+"Be kind enough to give orders for the prisoner to be brought into my
+presence, while I inform him of his liberation," he added, with a
+mocking smile, whose strange meaning the officers did not comprehend.
+"You will have all the effects belonging to him placed in the boat of
+the smuggling lugger on board which I came back. Go, gentlemen."
+
+The officers withdrew.
+
+The Count was greatly surprised when La Grenade opened the door of his
+cell, and begged him to follow him, as the Governor wished to speak
+with the prisoner.
+
+He fancied the Major on the road to Paris, as had been arranged between
+them on the previous evening, and did not at all understand his
+presence at the fort after the solemn promise he had made.
+
+Another thing also caused him great surprise--ever since he had been a
+prisoner at Saint Marguerite the Governor had not once sent for him; on
+the contrary, he had always put himself out of the way by visiting his
+cell.
+
+But the thing that completely routed his ideas was La Grenade's
+recommendation to him, to place all his belongings in a trunk, and take
+the key.
+
+"Why this most unnecessary precaution?" the Count asked him.
+
+"No one ever knows what may happen, sir," the gaoler replied,
+cunningly; "it is as well to take precautions; and stay, if I were you
+I would put on my hat and take my cloak."
+
+And while speaking thus, the soldier actively helped him to pack his
+trunk.
+
+"There, that's done," he said, with a grin of satisfaction, when the
+Count had taken out the key; "here are your hat and cloak."
+
+"My hat, if you like," the young man remarked, laughingly, "but why
+my cloak? I run no risk of catching a pleurisy in my short walk to the
+Governor's presence."
+
+"Will you not take it?"
+
+"Certainly not."
+
+"Then I will; you'll see you will want it."
+
+The young gentleman shrugged his shoulders, without replying, and they
+left the room, the door of which the gaoler did not take the trouble to
+lock after him.
+
+The Major was walking up and down his room while awaiting the prisoner.
+La Grenade showed him in, laid the cloak on a chair, and withdrew.
+
+"Ah, ah!" said the Major, with a laugh--"I see that you suspected
+something."
+
+"I, Mr. Governor? What was it, if you please?"
+
+"Zounds! you appear to be dressed as if for a journey."
+
+"It is that ass of La Grenade, who, I know not for what reason, obliged
+me to put on my hat, and insisted on bringing my cloak here."
+
+"He was right."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"My lord, I have the honour to inform you that you are a free man."
+
+"I free!" the Count exclaimed, turning pale with joy and emotion.
+
+"The King has deigned to sign your liberation, and I received the
+orders on landing at Antibes."
+
+"At last!" the Count burst forth, but then immediately recovered
+himself. "Can you show me the order, sir?"
+
+"Excuse me, my lord, that is forbidden."
+
+"Ah! For what reason?"
+
+"It is a general precaution, sir."
+
+"In that case I will not press it: at least, you are permitted to tell
+me at whose request my liberty was granted me?"
+
+"I see no objection to that, sir--it was at the request of the Duc de
+Bellegarde."
+
+"The dear Duke!--a real friend!" the Count cried, in great emotion.
+
+The Major, with the utmost coolness, handed him a pen, and pointed to a
+blank space in the register.
+
+"Will you be kind enough, sir, to sign this register?"
+
+The Count hurriedly perused it, and saw that it was a species of
+certificate of the honourable way he had been treated during the period
+of his detention. He signed.
+
+"Now, sir, as I am free, for I presume I am so--" "Free as a bird, my
+lord."
+
+"In that case I can retire. I know not why, but during the last instant
+these thick, gloomy walls, seem to stifle me, and I shall not breathe
+at my ease till I feel myself in the open air."
+
+"I understand that, sir. I have made every preparation, and we will
+embark whenever you please."
+
+"_We?_" the Count asked, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, my lord, I shall accompany you."
+
+"For what reason, may I ask?"
+
+"To do you honour, sir--for no other reason."
+
+"Very good," he said, thoughtfully; "let us go, then; but I have some
+traps here."
+
+"They are already on board: come, sir."
+
+The Major took up his valise and casket, and left the room, followed by
+the Count.
+
+"Did I not tell you you would want your cloak?"
+
+La Grenade said to M. de Barmont, with a bow, as he passed--"Pleasant
+voyage to you, sir, and good luck."
+
+They went down to the waterside. During the walk, which was not very
+long, the Count's brow became more and more clouded; he fancied he
+could notice a certain sorrow on the faces of the officers and soldiers
+who were watching his departure--they whispered together, and pointed
+to the Count in anything but a reassuring way, and it gave him much
+cause for anxiety.
+
+Every now and then he took a side-glance at the Major, but he appeared
+calm, and had a smile on his face.
+
+They at length reached the boat, and the Major stepped aside to let the
+Count get into it first.
+
+As soon as they were both in, the boat was pushed off. During the whole
+passage from the shore to the lugger the Count and the Major remained
+silent.
+
+At length they came along side the little vessel, a rope was thrown to
+them, and they went up the side.
+
+The yawl was immediately hauled up, all sail was set, and the lugger
+stood out to sea.
+
+"Ah!" the Count exclaimed on perceiving Michael, "You are here, then I
+am saved!"
+
+"I hope so," the latter replied; "but come, my lord, we have matters to
+discuss."
+
+They went down into the cabin, followed by the Major.
+
+"There, now we can talk, Captain--the first thing is to settle our
+accounts."
+
+"Our accounts?" M. de Barmont repeated, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, let us proceed regularly. You promised this gentleman 50,000
+livres?"
+
+"Yes, I did."
+
+"And you authorize me to give them to him?"
+
+"Certainly."
+
+"Good; in that case he shall have them." Then, turning to the
+Major--"You have scrupulously kept your promises, and we will keep ours
+as loyally. Here, in the first place, is your diamond, which I give you
+back: I will hand you over the money in a moment. I suppose you no more
+wish to remain in France than we do--eh?"
+
+"I do not wish it the least in the world," the Major replied, delighted
+at having regained possession of his diamond.
+
+"Where would you like to be landed? Will England suit you, or do you
+prefer Italy?"
+
+"Well, I do not exactly know."
+
+"Do you like Spain better? 'Tis all the same to me."
+
+"Why not Portugal?"
+
+"Done for Portugal. We will drop you there in passing."
+
+The Count had listened with growing surprise to this conversation,
+which was incomprehensible to him.
+
+"What is the meaning of all this?" he at length asked.
+
+"It means, Captain," Michael distinctly answered, "that the King has
+not signed the pardon--that you are a prisoner, and would probably have
+remained so all your life had not this gentleman, luckily for you,
+consented to open the door."
+
+"Sir!" the Count exclaimed, making a movement toward the Major.
+
+Michael stopped him.
+
+"Do not be in a hurry to thank him," he said--"wait till he has told
+you what has occurred, and in what way he found himself obliged to set
+you at liberty, when he would probably have preferred not to do so."
+
+"Come, come!" said the Count, stamping his foot passionately--"Explain
+yourself! I understand nothing of all this. I wish to know
+everything--everything, I tell you!"
+
+"This man will tell you it, Captain; but he is afraid at present of the
+consequences of his confession, and that is why he hesitates to make
+it."
+
+M. de Barmont smiled disdainfully.
+
+"This man is beneath my contempt," he said; "whatever he may say I will
+not take the slightest vengeance on him--he is pardoned beforehand, I
+pledge him my word as a gentleman."
+
+"Now speak, Major," said Michael; "during that time I will go on deck
+again with Skipper Nicaud, or, if you prefer it, Bowline, who has
+played his part remarkably well throughout the affair."
+
+Michael left the cabin, and the two men remained alone.
+
+The Major understood that it was better to make a clean breast of it:
+hence he told the Count, without any equivocation, the full details of
+his treachery, and in what manner Michael had compelled him to save
+him, when, on the contrary, he was paid to ruin him.
+
+Although the name of the Duc de Penaflor had not once been mentioned
+during the Major's narration, the Count divined that it was he alone
+who had dealt him all the blows he had felt so severely during the last
+eighteen months; however great his resolution might be, this depth
+of hatred, this Machiavellian vengeance terrified him; but in this
+extremely detailed narrative one point seemed to him obscure, and that
+was, how Michael had discovered the final machinations of his enemies,
+and done so opportunely enough to be able to foil them.
+
+All the questions the Count asked on this head the Major was unable to
+answer, for he was ignorant.
+
+"Well," asked the sailor, suddenly entering the cabin, "are you now
+informed, Captain?"
+
+"Yes," the latter replied, with a certain tinge of sadness, "except on
+one point."
+
+"What is it, Captain?"
+
+"I should like to know in what manner you detected this cleverly
+contrived plot."
+
+"Very simply, Captain, and I will tell you the whole affair in a couple
+of words. Bowline and I, without the Major suspecting it, followed him
+carefully into the ruins, while cautiously avoiding being seen; in this
+way no part of his conversation with the stranger escaped us. When the
+Major handed him the papers, and the stranger retired, I jumped at his
+throat, and, with Bowline's help, took the papers from him--"
+
+"Where are these papers?" the Count interrupted him eagerly.
+
+"I will give them to you, Captain."
+
+"Thanks, Michael; now go on."
+
+"Well, my story's finished; I gagged him to prevent him calling out,
+and after tying him up like a plug of tobacco to stop him running after
+us, I left him there and went away."
+
+"What, you went away, Michael, leaving the man thus gagged and bound on
+a desert isle?"
+
+"What would you have had me do with him, Captain?"
+
+"Oh, perhaps it would have been better to kill him, than leave him
+exposed to such a horrible punishment."
+
+"He had been so precious tender to you, hadn't he, Captain? Stuff! Pity
+for such a ferocious brute would be madness on your part; besides, the
+fiend always protects his creatures, you may be sure, and I am certain
+that he has escaped."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"Hang it, he didn't swim off to Saint Honorat; his people were probably
+concealed somewhere: tired of not seeing him return, they will have
+set out to seek him, and picked him up where I put him to bed; he will
+probably have got off with gnawing the bit for two or three hours."
+
+"Well, that is possible, Michael, and even probable. Where are you
+taking us?"
+
+"Zounds, you are the commander here, Captain; we will go wherever you
+please."
+
+"I will tell you, but first let us land the Major, for I fancy he
+wishes to be free of our company as much as we do of his."
+
+At this moment Bowline's voice was heard.
+
+"Hilloh, Michael," he shouted, "we have a large vessel to windward."
+
+"Confusion!" said the sailor, "Has she hoisted her colours?"
+
+"Yes; she is a Norwegian."
+
+"That will be a good opportunity for you, Major," said the Count.
+
+"Eh, helmsman," Michael shouted, without awaiting the Major's answer,
+"steer down to the Norwegian."
+
+The Major considered it useless to protest.
+
+Two hours later the vessels were within speaking distance: the
+stranger was bound for Helsingfors, and the captain consented to take
+the passenger offered him.
+
+The Major was consequently transported on board, with everything
+belonging to him.
+
+"Now, Captain," said Michael, when the boat had returned, "where shall
+we steer?"
+
+"Let us go to the islands," the Count answered sadly, "henceforth we
+shall only find a shelter there and taking a last glance at the coast
+of France, whose outline was beginning to fade away in the distant
+horizon," he muttered, with a sigh, and concealing his face sorrowfully
+in his hands, "Farewell, France!"
+
+In these two words was exhaled the last human feeling that remained at
+the bottom of the heart of this man who had been so tried by adversity,
+and who, vanquished by despair, was going to ask of the new world the
+vengeance which the old world so obstinately refused him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+THE BEGINNING OF THE ADVENTURE.
+
+
+The seventeenth century was a period of transition between the middle
+ages, that were exhaling their last sigh, and the modern era, which the
+great thinkers of the eighteenth century were destined to constitute so
+splendidly.
+
+Under the repeated blows of the implacable Cardinal de Richelieu,
+that gloomy filler of the unity of the despotic power of kings, an
+immense reaction had been effected in ideas. It was a silent reaction,
+that from the outset sapped the minister's work, and he was far from
+suspecting its causes or power. It was more especially in the latter
+half of the seventeenth century that the world offered a strange
+spectacle.
+
+At that period, the Spaniards, who were possessors, by the right of
+force, of the greater part of America, where they had multiplied
+colonies, were masters of the sea which the celebrated "broom of
+Holland" had not yet swept. The English navy was only beginning to
+be formed, and, in spite of the continuous efforts of Richelieu, the
+French navy was not in existence.
+
+Suddenly several adventurers sprang up, no one knew whence, who, alone,
+castaways of civilization, men of all classes, from the highest to
+the most humble, belonging to all nations, but chiefly to the French,
+perched themselves like vultures on an imperceptible islet in the
+Atlantic, and undertook to contend against the Spanish power, after
+declaring a merciless war on their private authority. Attacking the
+Spanish fleet with unheard-of audacity, and, like a gadfly fastened to
+a lion's flank, holding in check the Spanish Colossus, they compelled
+it to treat with them on equal terms, with no other help but their
+courage and their energetic will.
+
+In a few years their incredible exploits and audacious coups de main
+inspired the Spaniards with such terror, and acquired for themselves
+such a great and merited reputation, that the disinherited of fortune,
+the seekers of adventures, flocked from all parts of the world to the
+island that served them as a refuge, and their number was so enormously
+augmented, that they almost succeeded in forming themselves into a
+nationality by the sole force of their will, and their boldness. Let
+us say in a few words, who these men were, and what was the origin of
+their strange fortune.
+
+For this purpose we must return to the Spaniards.
+
+The latter, after their immense discoveries in the New World, had
+obtained from Pope Alexander VI. a bull which conceded to them the
+exclusive possession of the two Americas.
+
+Supported by this bull, and considering themselves the sole owners of
+the New World, the Spaniards tried to keep all other nations away from
+it, and began to treat as corsairs all the vessels they came across
+between the two tropics.
+
+Their maritime power, and the important part they played at that time
+on the American continent did not leave the governments the power of
+protesting, as they would have desired, against this odious tyranny.
+
+Then it happened that English and French outfitters, excited by the
+thirst of gain, and paying no heed to the Spanish pretensions, equipped
+vessels which they dispatched to the so-coveted rich regions, to cut
+off the Spanish transports, plunder the American coast, and fire the
+town.
+
+Treated as pirates, these bold sailors frankly accepted the position
+offered them, committed awful excesses wherever they landed, carried
+off rich spoil, and despising the law of nations, and not caring
+whether the Spaniards were at war or not with the countries to which
+they belonged, they attacked them wherever they met them.
+
+The Spaniards, entirely engaged with rich possessions in Mexico, Peru,
+and generally on the Continent, which were mines of inexhaustible
+wealth for them, had committed the fault of neglecting the Antilles,
+which stretch from the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of Maracaibo, and
+only established colonies in the four large islands of that archipelago.
+
+Hidden in bays behind the windings of the coast, the adventurers dashed
+suddenly at the Spanish vessels, carried them by boarding, and then
+returned ashore to share the plunder.
+
+The Spaniards, in spite of the great number of their vessels, and the
+active watch they kept up, could no longer traverse the Caribbean Sea,
+which the adventurers had selected as the scene of their exploits,
+without running the risk of obstinate engagements with men, whom the
+smallness and lightness of their vessels rendered almost intangible.
+
+This wandering life possessed such charms for the adventurers, who had
+assumed the characteristic name of filibusters or freebooters, that
+for a long time the idea did not occur to them of forming a permanent
+settlement among the islands, which they employed as a temporary
+retreat.
+
+Things were in this state when, in 1625, a cadet of Normandy, of the
+name of d'Esnambuc, to whom the law of entail left no hope of fortune,
+except what he could acquire by his industry or courage, fitted out at
+Dieppe a brigantine of about seventy tons, on board which he placed
+four guns and forty resolute men, and set out to chase the Spaniards
+and try to enrich himself by some good prize.
+
+On arriving at the Caymans, small islands situated between Cuba and
+Jamaica, he suddenly came across the track of a Spanish vessel bearing
+thirty-five guns and a crew of three hundred and fifty men; it was a
+critical situation for the corsair.
+
+D'Esnambuc, without giving the Spaniards time to look about them,
+steered down and attacked them. The action lasted for three hours with
+extraordinary obstinacy; the Dieppois defended themselves so well, that
+the Spaniards despairing of conquest and having lost one-half their
+crew, were the first to decline fighting, and shamefully fled from the
+small vessel.
+
+Still, the latter had suffered severely, and could be hardly kept above
+water, ten men had been killed, and the rest of the crew, being covered
+with wounds, were not worth much more.
+
+As the isle of Saint Kitts was no great distance off, d'Esnambuc
+reached it with much difficulty, and took refuge there to careen his
+vessel, and cure his wounded. Then calculating, that, for the success
+of his future expeditions, he required a sure retreat, he resolved to
+establish himself on this island.
+
+St. Kitts, which the Caribs called Liamuiga, is situated in 17 to 18
+degrees N. latitude and 65 W. longitude. It is 23 leagues W.N.W. of
+Antigua, and about 3 leagues to the N.W. of Guadeloupe, and is one of
+the Caribbean Islands.
+
+The general aspect of this island is remarkably beautiful, it is
+commanded by Mount Misery, an extinct volcano, three thousand five
+hundred feet high, which occupies the whole northwest part, and
+gradually descends in lower ranges, till it dies away on the South in
+the plains of the Basse terre.
+
+The barrenness of the mountains forms a striking contrast with the
+fertility of the plains.
+
+The valleys display a really extraordinary wealth of vegetation, while
+the mountains only offer to the eye a confused chaos of broken rocks,
+whose interstices are filled up with a clayey matter that checks all
+vegetation.
+
+Water is rare, and of a bad quality, for the few streams that descend
+from Mount Misery are strongly impregnated with saline particles, to
+which strangers find a difficulty in growing accustomed.
+
+But a precious thing for the filibusters, Saint Kitts possesses two
+magnificent ports, well sheltered and easy of defence, and its coasts
+are serrated with deep bays, where, in case of danger, their light
+vessels would easily find a shelter.
+
+D'Esnambuc, on landing, found several refugee Frenchmen who lived on
+good terms with the Caribs, and who not only received him with open
+arms, but joined him and selected him as their leader.
+
+By a singular chance, on the same day that the Dieppois landed at St.
+Kitts, English freebooters commanded by Captain Warner, who had also
+suffered in an engagement with the Spaniards, took refuge at another
+point in it.
+
+The corsairs of the two nations who could not be separated by any
+idea of conquest, agriculture, or commerce, and who pursued the same
+object, fighting the Spaniards, and establishing a refuge against the
+common enemy, easily came to an understanding; then, after dividing the
+island, they settled down side by side, and lived for a long time on
+excellent terms, which nothing disturbed.
+
+On one occasion they even combined their arms against the Caribs, who,
+alarmed by the progress of their new settlement, attempted to expel
+them.
+
+The filibusters made a horrible carnage among the Indians, and forced
+them to implore for mercy.
+
+A few months after, Warner and d'Esnambuc put out to sea again; the
+latter proceeded to Paris, the former to London, each for the purpose
+of soliciting the protection of his government for the rising colony.
+
+As usual, these men, who at the beginning had only sought a temporary
+refuge, now felt a desire to see the development of a settlement
+founded by themselves, and which in a short time had assumed a real
+importance.
+
+Cardinal de Richelieu, ever disposed to favour projects tending to
+augment the foreign power of France, received the filibuster with the
+greatest distinction, entered into his views, and formed a company,
+called "The Company of the Islands," in order to promote the interests
+of the colony.
+
+The capital was 45,000 livres, of which Richelieu subscribed for his
+part 10,000.
+
+D'Esnambuc was invested with the supreme command.
+
+Among the claims stipulated in his commission there is one which we
+must quote, owing to its strangeness, for it imposed on white men in
+America a temporary slavery harsher even than that of the Negro.
+
+This is the clause, whose sinister consequences we shall see developed
+during the course of this story.
+
+"No labourer intended for the colony will be allowed to embark, unless
+he engages to remain for three years in the service of the company,
+which will have the right to employ him on any task it thinks proper,
+without granting him the right to complain or break the contract
+entered into by him."
+
+These labourers were called Engages or "thirty-six monthers," a polite
+way of getting rid of the word slave.
+
+Captain Warner, who had been more highly favoured, returned with a
+large body of colonists. Still the good understanding was kept up for
+some time between the two nations; but the English took advantage of
+the weakness of the French, who could not oppose their usurpations, to
+encroach on their rights, and formed a fresh settlement at Nevis, the
+next island to St. Kitts.
+
+Still d'Esnambuc did not despair of the fate of the colony. He
+proceeded again to France, and solicited of the Cardinal help in men
+and money, to repulse the undertakings of his troublesome neighbours.
+
+Richelieu granted his request.
+
+By his orders, Rear Admiral de Cussac arrived at St. Kitts, with six
+heavily armed ships; he surprised ten English vessels in the roads,
+captured three, sank three others, and put the rest to flight.
+
+The English made no further attempts to leave their boundaries, and
+peace was re-established.
+
+M. de Cussac, after supplying the colony with rum and provisions, set
+sail, and went to found a settlement on St. Eustache, an island four
+leagues N. W. of St. Kitts.
+
+The Spaniards, however, who, since the appearance of the filibusters in
+American waters, had suffered so greatly from their depredations, saw
+them with great alarm settling permanently on the West India islands.
+
+They understood of what importance it was to them not to allow fixed
+settlements in these regions, unless they wished to see their colonies
+destroyed and their commerce ruined.
+
+They consequently resolved to act vigorously against those fellows whom
+they regarded as pirates, and to utterly destroy their lurking places,
+which had already acquired formidable proportions.
+
+In consequence Admiral don Fernando de Toledo, whom the court of
+Madrid had placed at the head of a powerful fleet, sent in 1630 to
+Brazil to fight the Dutch, received orders to destroy in passing, the
+viper's nest formed by the filibusters at St. Kitts.
+
+The sudden apparition of this immense force off the island filled the
+inhabitants with stupor. The united resources of the English and French
+adventurers and their desperate courage were not sufficient to avert
+the danger that menaced them, and repulse so formidable an attack.
+
+After a desperate fight, in which a great number of filibusters,
+especially Frenchmen, were killed, the others got into their light
+canoes and fled to the adjacent isles of St. Bartholomew, Antigua, St.
+Martin, and Montserrat, or to any place in short where they hoped to
+find a temporary refuge.
+
+The English, we are unfortunately compelled to state, shamefully
+fled at the beginning of the action, and eventually asked leave to
+capitulate.
+
+One half of them were sent to England on board Spanish ships, while the
+rest engaged to evacuate the island as soon as possible,--a promise
+which was forgotten immediately after the departure of the Spanish
+fleet.
+
+This expedition was the only one that Spain seriously attempted against
+the filibusters.
+
+The French soon left the islands where they had sought refuge, and
+returned to St. Kitts, where they re-established themselves, though
+not without a quarrel with the English, who had taken advantage of the
+opportunity to seize their land, but whom they forced again beyond
+their old borders.
+
+It is a singular fact, which proves that the filibusters were not
+bandits and nameless men, as attempts have been made to brand them,
+that the inhabitants of St. Kitts were remarkable beyond all the
+other colonists for the gentleness and urbanity of their manners; the
+traditions of politeness left by the first Frenchmen who settled there,
+have been maintained even to the present day; in the eighteenth century
+it was called the Gentle Island, and there is a proverb in the Antilles
+to the effect, that "the nobility were at St. Kitts, the citizens at
+Guadeloupe, the soldiers at Martinique, and the peasants at Grenada."
+
+Things remained for a long time in the state we have just described;
+the filibusters, growing bolder and bolder through the Spanish
+cowardice, enlarged the scene of their exploits, and retaining a bitter
+memory of the sack of their island, felt a double hatred for the
+Spaniards, who had branded them with the name of Ladrones (robbers).
+They no longer displayed any moderation, and seated in the light canoes
+that composed their entire fleet, they watched for the rich transports
+from Mexico, dashed boldly aboard them, carried them, and returned to
+St. Kitts loaded with plunder.
+
+The colony prospered, the land was well cultivated, and the plantations
+were carefully made.
+
+For these men, the majority of whom had no hope left of ever returning
+to their native land, had performed their work with the feverish
+ardor of people who are creating for themselves a new nationality
+and preparing a last asylum, so that only a few years after the
+destruction of the colony by the Spaniards, St. Kitts had again become
+a flourishing colony, thanks in the first instance to its fertility and
+the energy and intelligence of its inhabitants, but above all to the
+incessant toil of the engages of the company.
+
+We have now to explain what these poor fellows were and the fate they
+met with at the hands of the colonists.
+
+We have already stated that the company sent to the islands, men whom
+they had engaged for three years.
+
+They accepted anybody, workmen belonging to all trades, even surgeons
+who, persuading themselves that they were destined to carry on their
+own profession in the colonies, allowed themselves to be seduced by the
+fair promises which the company did not hesitate to lavish.
+
+But once their consent was given, that is to say, signed, the company
+regarded them as men belonging to it body and soul; and when they
+reached the colonies, agents _sold_ then for three years to the
+planters, at the rate of thirty or forty crowns a head, and did so in
+the broad daylight and in the governor's presence.
+
+They thus became real slaves, subject to the adventurers of the colony,
+and condemned to the rudest tasks.
+
+Hence, the poor wretches, so unworthily abused, beaten terribly and
+worn out by a fatigue under a deadly climate, generally succumbed ere
+they had attained the third year, which was to set them at liberty.
+
+This was carried so far that the masters at last attempted to prolong
+the stipulated slavery beyond three years. Toward the end of 1632, the
+colony of St. Kitts incurred great dangers, for the engages whose time
+was up and whom their masters refused liberty, took up arms, organized
+a resistance, and prepared to attack the colonists with that energy of
+desperation which no force can resist. M. d'Esnambuc only succeeded in
+making them lay down their arms and arrest bloodshed by conceding their
+just demands.
+
+At a later date, when the sad condition in which the company's agents
+placed the engages, became known in France, it became almost impossible
+for the latter to find volunteers; hence they were obliged to go about
+the roads and highways to enlist vagabonds whom they intoxicated and
+induced to sign, while in that condition, an engagement which it was
+impossible to break.
+
+We will dwell the more earnestly on this point, because during the
+course of our narrative, we shall have frequently to revert to the
+engages. We will only add one word about the wretches whom England sent
+to the colonies under the same conditions.
+
+If the fate of the French engages was frightful, that of the English,
+history proves to us, was horrible.
+
+They were treated with the most atrocious barbarity. They formed an
+engagement for seven years, and then, at the end of that time, when
+the moment to regain their liberty had at length arrived, they were
+intoxicated, and advantage was taken of their condition to make them
+sign a second engagement for the same period.
+
+Cromwell, after the sack of Drogheda, sold more than 30,000 Irish for
+Jamaica and Barbados.
+
+Nearly two thousand of these wretched succeeded in escaping on board a
+vessel, which, in their ignorance of navigation, they allowed to drift
+and the current cast it ashore at Saint Domingo. The poor fellows, not
+knowing where they were, and being without food or resources, all died
+of hunger. Their piled-up bones, bleached by time, remained for several
+years on Cape Tiburon, at a spot which was called Irish Bay on account
+of the terrible catastrophe, and still bears the name.
+
+The reader will pardon us for having entered into such lengthened
+details about the establishment of the filibusters of St. Kitts; but
+as it was on this little island that the terrible association of
+adventurers, whose history we have undertaken to tell, had its birth,
+it is necessary to make the reader fully acquainted with these facts,
+so that we might not be obliged to return to them hereafter. Now, we
+will resume our narrative to which the preceding chapters serve, so to
+speak, as a prologue, and leaping at one bound across the space that
+separates Sainte Marguerite from the Caribbean islands, we will proceed
+to St. Kitts a few months after the escape, for we dare not say the
+liberation, of Count Ludovic de Barmont Senectaire.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+THE COUNCIL OF THE FILIBUSTERS.
+
+
+Several years elapsed without producing any notable changes in the
+colony.
+
+The adventurers still continued, with the same obstinacy, their
+expeditions against the Spaniards; but as their expeditions were
+isolated, and had no sort of organization, the losses experienced by
+the Spaniards, though very great, were much less considerable than
+might be anticipated.
+
+About this time, a lugger manned by forty resolute men, and armed with
+four iron guns, anchored off St. Kitts, proudly displaying the French
+flag at its stern.
+
+This vessel brought to the colony a fresh contingent of brave
+adventurers.
+
+Immediately after their arrival, they landed, formed the acquaintance
+of the inhabitants, and testified a desire to settle on the island.
+
+The chief, to whom his comrades gave the name of Montbarts, and
+for whom they appeared to have an unbounded devotion, informed the
+colonists, that like them, he professed a profound hatred for the
+Spaniards, and that he was followed by two ships of that nation, which
+he had captured, and had given the prize masters orders to steer for
+St. Kitts.
+
+These good men were received with shouts of joy by the inhabitants, and
+Montbarts had a narrow escape from being carried in triumph.
+
+As he had announced, three or four days later two Spanish vessels
+anchored at St. Kitts. They bore at their stern the Castilian flag
+reversed, in sign of humiliation, while above it proudly fluttered the
+French ensign.
+
+There was one horrible circumstance, however, which chilled even the
+bravest with horror. These vessels bore at their bowsprit, and at their
+cross-jack, as well as at the main and foreyard, groups of corpses. By
+Montbarts order, the crews of the two vessels had been hung, without
+showing mercy even to a boy.
+
+The chief of the adventurers generously gave the cargo of the two ships
+to the colonists, only asking for sufficient land in return, on which
+to build a house.
+
+This request was at once granted; the newcomers then disarmed their
+lugger, came ashore, and began their installation.
+
+Montbarts was a young man of about seven or eight-and-twenty, with
+manly and marked features, and a fixed and piercing eye. The expression
+of his face was essentially sad, mocking, and cruel: a dead pallor;
+spread over his face, added, were it possible, a strangeness to his
+whole person. Tall and powerfully built, though supple and graceful,
+his gestures were elegant and noble, while his speech was soft, and
+the terms he employed were carefully chosen. He exercised a singular
+fascination over those who approached him, or whom accident brought
+into relation with him. They felt at once repulsed and attracted by
+this singular man, who seemed the only one of his species on the earth,
+and who, without appearing to be anxious for it, imposed his will upon
+all, gained obedience by a sign or a frown, and who only seemed to live
+when he was in the thick of a fight, when fires crossed above his head,
+forming him an aureole of flame, when corpses were piled up around him,
+when blood flowed beneath his feet, and when bullets whistled in his
+ears, and when he rushed drunk with powder and carnage upon the deck of
+a Spanish ship.
+
+Such was what was said of him by his comrades, and by those who had
+been struck by his singular countenance, and wished to know him: but
+beyond this moral and physical portrait of the man, it was impossible
+to obtain the slightest information as to his past life. Not one of the
+sailors who came with him knew the slightest episode of it, or, as was
+probable, refused to discover anything.
+
+Hence, when the colonists perceived that all their questions would
+remain unanswered, they gave up the useless task of asking them. They
+accepted Montbarts for what it pleased him to be, the more so, as his,
+former life not only did not concern them, but also interested them
+very slightly.
+
+The adventurer only remained ashore for the period strictly necessary
+to establish his household comfortably; then, one day, without warning
+anybody, he went on board his lugger with the crew he had brought
+with him, only leaving five or six men at St. Kitts to manage his
+plantation, and set sail. A month after, he returned, having in tow
+a richly laden Spanish vessel, with the crew hanging to the yards as
+before.
+
+Montbarts went on thus for a whole year, never remaining more than two
+or three days ashore, then going off, and returning with a prize with
+its entire crew suspended from the yards.
+
+Matters attained such a pitch, the audacity of the daring corsair was
+crowned with such success, that the rumour of it reached France. Then,
+the Dieppe adventurers, comprehending all the profit they might derive
+from this interloping war, fitted out vessels, and went to join the
+colonists of St. Kitts, for the purpose of organising a hunt of the
+Spaniards, and carrying it out on a grand scale.
+
+Filibusterism was about to enter on its second phase, and become a
+regular association.
+
+Montbarts had built his hatto, or principal residence, at the spot
+where the English afterwards formed Sandy-point battery.
+
+It was an excellently chosen position, militarily speaking, where, in
+case of attack, it was easy not only to act on the defensive, but also
+to repulse the enemy with serious loss.
+
+This hatto, built of trunks of trees, and covered with palm leaves,
+stood nearly at the extremity of a cape, whence the greater part of
+the island and the sea for a considerable distance on the right and
+left could be commanded. This cape, which was nearly precipitous,
+and one hundred and fifty feet high seawards, could only be reached
+by a narrow, rough path, intersected at regular distances by strong
+palisades, and wide, deep ditches, which had to be crossed on planks,
+that were easy to remove. Two four-pounder guns, placed in position at
+the head of the path guarded the approaches.
+
+This hatto was divided into four rather large rooms, furnished with a
+luxury and comfort rather singular in an out-of-the-way island like St.
+Kitts, but which was fully justified by the usual occupation of the
+owner, who merely required to take any furniture that suited him out of
+his prizes.
+
+A long pole, serving as a flagstaff, planted in front of the door of
+the hatto, displayed in the breeze a white ensign with a red jack in
+the right hand top corner. This flag was that of the corsairs, which
+Montbarts sometimes changed for one all black, having in its centre a
+death's head and crossbones, all white. This was an ill-omened flag,
+which, when hoisted at the peak, signified that the conquered had no
+hope of mercy to expect.
+
+It was a warm day towards the end of May, about eighteen months after
+Montbarts' arrival at St. Kitts. Several persons, stern looking and
+rough mannered, almost armed to the teeth, were conversing together as
+they followed the path that led from the plain to the platform on which
+Montbarts' hatto stood.
+
+It was nearly ten o'clock at night, and the sky was transparent and
+clear. Thousands of stars sparkled in the heavens, the moon profusely
+shed her white light, and the atmosphere was so pellucid, that the
+smallest objects were visible at a long distance. There was not a
+breath in the air, or a rustle among the leaves; the sea, calm as
+a mirror, died away with a soft and mysterious murmur on the sandy
+beach; the fireflies buzzed noisily, and at times dashed against the
+pedestrians, who contented themselves with driving them away with their
+hands, without, on that account, interrupting a conversation which
+seemed greatly to interest them.
+
+These men were five in number, and all in the prime of life. Their
+features were energetically marked, and their faces revealed audacity
+and resolution carried to the highest pitch. Their slightly curved
+shoulders, and the way in which they straddled their legs in walking,
+while swaying their arms, would have caused them to be recognised as
+sailors at the first glance, had not their dress sufficiently proved
+the fact.
+
+They were talking in English.
+
+"Stuff!" one of them was saying at the moment when we join in their
+conversation; "We must see. All that glistens is not gold, as they say
+down there. Besides, I wish for nothing better than to be mistaken,
+after all."
+
+"No matter," another replied; "in accordance with your laudable custom,
+you begin by expressing a doubt."
+
+"Not at all," the first speaker sharply interposed; "a fear, at the
+most."
+
+"Well," a third said; "we shall soon know what we have to expect, for
+here we are halfway up the path, thank Heaven!"
+
+"That demon of a Montbarts," the first went on, "has famously chosen
+his position. His hatto is impregnable, on my word as a man."
+
+"Yes. I do not think that the _gavachos_[1] will ever venture to
+attempt an escalade. But, by the way," he added suddenly, and halted;
+"suppose we are taking a useless walk, and Montbarts is not at home?"
+
+"I will answer for your finding him at home, Red Stocking, so set your
+mind at rest."
+
+"How do you know?" asked the man addressed by this singular name.
+
+"My God! Don't you see his flag hoisted at the masthead?"
+
+"That is true. I had not noticed it."
+
+"But now you see it, I suppose?"
+
+"I should be blind if I didn't."
+
+"Well," one of the filibusters said, who had hitherto maintained
+silence; "all this does not tell us why the meeting is to be held. Do
+you know anything about it, brother?"
+
+"No more than you," Red Stocking replied. "It is probably some daring
+project which Montbarts is meditating, and wishes us to take a part in."
+
+"But you know that he has not only summoned us, but also the principal
+French filibusters?"
+
+"In that case I am quite at sea," Red Stocking remarked. "However, it
+is of little consequence at present, as I presume we shall soon know
+what is wanted of us."
+
+"That is true, because we have arrived."
+
+In fact, they reached at this moment the head of the path, and found
+themselves on the platform exactly facing the hatto, whose door was
+open as if inviting them to enter.
+
+A very bright light poured through the doorway, and the sound of loud
+talking testified that there was a rather large gathering inside the
+hatto.
+
+The Englishmen continued to advance, and soon found themselves on the
+threshold.
+
+"Come in, brothers," Montbarts' harmonious voice was heard saying from
+the interior; "come in, we are waiting for you."
+
+They entered.
+
+Six or seven persons were assembled in the room, which they entered:
+they were the most renowned chiefs of the filibusters. Among them were
+Belle Tete (handsome head), the ferocious native of Dieppe, who had
+murdered more than three hundred of his engages, whom he accused of
+dying of indolence; Pierre le Grand, the Breton, who always boarded
+the Spanish galleons in the disguise of a female; Alexandre Bras de
+fer (iron arm), a young and apparently frail and delicate man, with
+effeminate features, but in reality endowed with a prodigious and
+herculean vigour, and destined hereafter to become one of the heroes of
+the buccaneering trade; Roc, surnamed the Brazilian, although born at
+Groningen, a town in East Friesland; and lastly, two old acquaintances
+of ours, Bowline and Michael the Basque, who both arrived at St. Kitts
+at the same time as Montbarts, and whose reputation as filibusters was
+already great.
+
+As for the English, who had just entered the hatto, five in number;
+they were Red Stocking, whose name was mentioned in the preceding
+conversation; Morgan, a young man hardly eighteen years of age, with
+a haughty face and aristocratic manners; Jean David, a Dutch sailor,
+settled in the eastern part of the island; Bartholomew, a Portuguese,
+also settled in the English colony; and lastly, William Drake, who had
+taken an oath never to attack the Spaniards, unless they were in the
+proportion of fifteen to one, so great was the contempt he professed
+for the proud nation.
+
+It was, as we see, a select gathering of all the great filibusters of
+the day.
+
+"You are welcome, brothers," said Montbarts; "I am glad to see you, for
+I was awaiting you impatiently. Here are pipes, tobacco, and spirits;
+smoke and drink," he added, pointing to a table placed in the centre
+of the room.
+
+The filibusters sat down, lighted pipes, and filled glasses.
+
+"Brothers," Montbarts resumed a moment later, "I have requested you to
+come to my hatto for two reasons of great importance, and of which the
+second necessarily depends on the first: are you prepared to listen to
+me?"
+
+"Speak, Montbarts," William Drake answered in the name of all; "you,
+whom the gavachos have surnamed the Exterminator, a name I envy you,
+brother, for you can only wish the good of filibustering."
+
+"That is the very subject," Montbarts answered.
+
+"I was sure of it, brother. Speak, we will listen to you religiously."
+
+They prepared to listen attentively. All these energetic men, who
+recognised no laws but those themselves had made, knew not what envy
+was, and were ready to discuss with the most entire good faith the
+proposals which they foresaw Montbarts desired to make to them.
+
+The latter reflected for a moment, and then spoke in a gentle voice,
+whose sympathetic accent soon captivated his audience.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "I will be brief, for you are picked men, with
+warm hearts and firm hands, with whom a long speech is not only
+useless, but also ridiculous Since my arrival at St. Kitts, I have
+been studying filibustering, its life, manners, and aspirations, and
+I have recognised with sorrow that the results do not justify its
+efforts. What are we doing? Nothing, or almost nothing. In spite of our
+indomitable courage, the Spaniards laugh at us; too weak, owing to
+our isolation, to inflict serious losses on them, we expend our energy
+in vain; we shed our blood, to take from them a few wretched vessels.
+It is not thus that matters ought to go on; this is not the vengeance
+which each of us dreamed of. What is the cause of our relative weakness
+toward our formidable enemy? The isolation, to which I alluded just
+now, and which will forever paralyze our efforts."
+
+"That is true," Red Stocking muttered.
+
+"But how can we alter it?" David asked.
+
+"Alas!" William Drake added, "The remedy is unfortunately impossible."
+
+"We are adventurers merely, and not a power," said Belle Tete.
+
+Montbarts smiled--that pale, peculiar smile of his, which turned the
+heart cold.
+
+"You are mistaken, brothers," he said, "the remedy is found; if we
+like, we shall soon be a power."
+
+"Speak, speak, brother," all the adventurers exclaimed, springing up.
+
+"This is my plan, brothers," he continued; "we are here twelve, of all
+nations, but with one heart; the flower of filibusterism, I declare
+loudly; without fear of contradiction, for each of us has furnished
+proofs of it, and what proofs! Well, let us join and form a family;
+from our share of the prizes let us set aside a sum intended to form
+the common treasury, and while remaining at liberty to organize private
+expeditions, let us swear never to injure or thwart one another, to
+offer mutual help when needed, to labour with all our power to the
+ruin of Spain, and while keeping our association secret from our
+comrades and brothers, to combine our forces when the moment arrives to
+crush our implacable enemy at one blow. Such, brothers, is the first
+proposal I have to make to you. I await your answer."
+
+There was a momentary silence; the filibusters understood the
+importance of their brother's proposal, and the strength it would give
+them in the future. They exchanged glances, whispered together, and at
+length William Drake replied in the name of all--
+
+"Brother," he said, "you have just elucidated in a few words a question
+which has hitherto remained in obscurity. You have perfectly defined
+the cause of our weakness, by finding at the same time, as you promised
+us, not the remedy, but the means to render an association hitherto due
+to accident and almost useless, really formidable and useful: but this
+is not all. This association, to which you allude, requires a head to
+direct it, and ensure the success of its efforts at the right moment.
+It is therefore necessary that while our association remains secret,
+and, as it were, not in existence at all, in every point that does
+not affect its object, one of us should be appointed chief; a chief,
+the more powerful, because we shall be devoted to him, and aid him in
+working for the general good."
+
+"Is this really your opinion, brothers?" Montbarts asked. "Do you
+accept my proposal such as I made it, and as William Drake has modified
+it?"
+
+"We accept it so," the filibusters replied with one voice.
+
+"Very good. Still I think that this chief, to whom you refer, should
+be unanimously elected by us; that his authority may be taken from him
+at a meeting of the assembly by a majority of voices, if he do not
+strictly fulfil the conditions he has accepted; that, as guardian of
+the treasury, he must always be ready to furnish his accounts, and
+that his appointment should not exceed five years, unless renewed."
+
+"All that is fair," said Red Stocking; "no one can understand the
+general good better than you, brother."
+
+"Hence," David remarked, "we shall be partners; no quarrel, no
+dissension can well be possible among us."
+
+"While ostensibly retaining our free will and most complete
+independence," Belle Tete reminded.
+
+"Yes," Montbarts replied.
+
+"Now, brothers," said Drake, rising, and doffing his cap, "listen to
+me: I, William Drake, swear on my faith and honour, the most complete
+devotion to the association of the Twelve, submitting myself beforehand
+to undergo the punishment my brothers may please to inflict on me, even
+death, if I were to betray the secret of the Association, and break my
+oath. Heaven help me!"
+
+After Drake each filibuster uttered the same oath in a firm voice, and
+with a solemn accent.
+
+They resumed their seats.
+
+"Brothers," said Montbarts, "what we have hitherto done is nothing;
+it is only the dawn of the new era which is about to open, for the
+glorious days of filibustering are beginning--twelve men like us,
+united by the same thought, must perform miracles."
+
+"We will do so, be assured, brother," Morgan said, as he carelessly
+picked his teeth with a gold pin.
+
+"Now, brothers, before I submit my second proposal to you, I believe we
+had better elect a president."
+
+"That is true," said David; "as the company is formed, let us elect the
+president."
+
+"One word first," said Michael the Basque, stepping into the centre of
+the circle.
+
+"Speak, brother."
+
+"I wish to add this: every member of the Association who falls into the
+hands of the gavachos shall be delivered by the other members, whatever
+perils they may have to incur in doing so."
+
+"We swear it!" the filibusters shouted enthusiastically.
+
+"Unless it is impossible," Morgan said.
+
+"Nothing is impossible for us," William Drake remarked, rudely.
+
+"That is true, brother. You are right, I was mistaken," Morgan replied,
+with a smile.
+
+"The society will be called that of The Twelve; only the death of
+a member will allow another to be admitted, and he must be chosen
+unanimously," Michael continued.
+
+"We swear it!" the filibusters exclaimed once more.
+
+"Now, brothers," said Bartholomew, "let us proceed to the election, by
+ballot, in order to protect the liberty of the vote."
+
+"There are pens, ink, and paper on that table, brothers," Montbarts
+remarked.
+
+"And here is my cap," Red Stocking said, with a laugh; "throw your
+votes into it."
+
+And, removing his beaver skin cap, the filibuster laid it on the ground
+in the middle of the room.
+
+Then the adventurers, with perfect order, rose one after the other, and
+in turn went to write their vote, which they deposited, after rolling
+up the paper, in Red Stocking's cap.
+
+Then all the adventurers returned to their seats:
+
+"Have we all voted?" David asked.
+
+"All!" the filibusters replied, in chorus.
+
+"Now, brother," Drake said to David, "since you hold the cap, proclaim
+the result."
+
+David questioned his comrades with a glance, and they bowed their heads
+in affirmation; then he took up the first roll that came to hand,
+opened it, and read--
+
+"Montbarts, the Exterminator."
+
+And passed on to a second.
+
+"Montbarts, the Exterminator," he read again.
+
+It was the same with the third, fourth, and so on up to the twelfth and
+last--all bore the words--
+
+"Montbarts, the Exterminator."
+
+It was a sinister challenge given to the Spanish nation, of whom this
+man was the most obstinate enemy.
+
+Montbarts rose, took off his hat, and bowed gracefully to his comrades.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "I thank you--the confidence you place in me shall
+not be disappointed."
+
+"Long live Montbarts, the Exterminator!" all the filibusters shouted,
+impulsively.
+
+The terrible company of The Twelve was created. Filibusterism then
+really became a formidable power.
+
+
+[Footnote 1: Term of contempt for the Spaniards.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+THE SECOND PROPOSAL.
+
+
+Montbarts allowed the enthusiasm of his comrades time to calm, and then
+spoke again.
+
+There was no change in his appearance; nothing in his face denoted
+the joy of triumph or of satisfied ambition; still the vote of his
+companions, by nominating him Chief of the filibusters, had rendered
+him in a moment a man more powerful than many a prince. His face was
+just as impassive, his voice equally firm.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "do you remember that I had a second proposal to
+make to you?"
+
+"That is true," William Drake replied--"speak, brother, we are
+listening to you."
+
+"The second proposal is as follows: still, I must request you before
+answering me to reflect fully on it. Your opinion must not be lightly
+expressed, for, I repeat to you, and dwell on it in order that you may
+thoroughly understand me, this proposition is most serious and grave.
+In a word, it is this:--I propose to you to abandon the island of St.
+Kitts, and choose another place of refuge, more convenient, and, above
+all, safer for you."
+
+The filibusters gazed at him in amazement.
+
+"I will explain," he said, stretching out his arms as if to request
+silence; "listen to me carefully, brothers, for what you are going to
+hear interests you all. Our refuge is badly chosen, and too remote from
+the centre of our expeditions; the difficulties we have to surmount in
+returning to it, in consequence of the currents that make our ships
+drift, and the contrary winds that oppose their speed, make us lose
+precious time. Now, the Caribbean archipelago is composed, of more
+than thirty islands, among which it is easy for us, it seems to me, to
+choose the one that suits us best. This idea which I bring before you
+today I have been revolving in my mind for a long time. I have not
+limited my expeditions to the pursuit of the gavachos. I have also made
+a voyage of discovery, and believe that I have found the spot suited
+for us."
+
+"Whereabouts is it, brother?" David asked, making himself spokesman for
+his companions.
+
+"I mean the island which the Spaniards call Hispaniola, and you know as
+St. Domingo."
+
+"But, brother," Bartholomew here interposed, "that island, which, I
+allow, is immense, and covered with magnificent forests, is inhabited
+by the Spaniards; if we went there it would be really placing ourselves
+in the wolf's throat."
+
+"I thought as you do before I had assured myself of the reality of the
+fact, but now I am certain of the contrary; not alone is the island
+only partially occupied by the gavachos, but we shall also find allies
+in the parties they have despised."
+
+"Allies!" the filibusters exclaimed, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, brothers, and in this wise.--When Don Fernando de Toledo attacked
+St. Kitts, the French who succeeded in escaping from the massacre
+took refuge on the adjacent islands, as you are aware; many of them
+went further, and reached St. Domingo, where they found a refuge.
+That was bold, was it not? But, I repeat to you, the Spaniards occupy
+scarce one-half of it. At the period of the discovery they left some
+horned cattle on the island; these beasts have propagated, and now
+exist in herds. The immense savannahs of St. Domingo are covered with
+innumerable herds of wild oxen which graze on all the uninhabited part;
+these herds, as you are aware, are a certain resource for revictualling
+our ships, and, moreover, the vicinity of the Spanish colonists offers
+us the means to satiate our hatred upon them; besides, our companions
+who have been established on the island for some years past wage an
+incessant and obstinate war upon them."
+
+"Yes, yes," said Belle Tete, pensively; "I understand what you are
+saying to us, brother. You are right up to a certain point; but let us
+discuss the matter quietly and coolly, like serious men."
+
+"Speak," Montbarts replied; "each of us has the right to express his
+opinion when the common interest is concerned."
+
+"Brave though we are, and we may boast of it frankly, for, thank
+heaven, our courage is well known, we are not strong enough for all
+that--at present at least--to measure ourselves against the Spanish
+power on land; there is a difference between capturing a ship and
+facing an entire population. You allow that, I suppose, brother?"
+
+"Certainly I do."
+
+"Very good, I will go on. It is evident that the Spaniards, who up to
+the present have probably not noticed them, or, at any rate, owing
+to their small number and slight importance, have disdained the
+adventurers established on the desert part of the island; when they see
+that this establishment, which they supposed to be temporary, and due
+to the caprice of our brothers, is becoming permanent, and assuming the
+menacing proportions of a colony, they will refuse to permit it--what
+will happen then? This: they will collect all their forces, assail us
+suddenly, destroy us after a desperate resistance, and ruin at one
+blow, not only our new colony, but also our hopes of vengeance."
+
+These remarks of Belle Tete, which displayed close logic, produced a
+certain effect on the filibusters, who began exchanging meaning looks;
+but Montbarts did not allow the spirit of opposition time to spread,
+and at once went on to say--
+
+"You would be right, brother, if, as you suppose, we were to place our
+principal establishment on St. Domingo; it is evident that we should be
+crushed by numbers, and forced to retire disgracefully; but a man would
+know me badly if he supposed that I, who have an implacable hatred of
+these infamous gavachos, could possibly conceive such a plan for a
+moment, if I had not previously assured myself about its success, and
+the profit we shall derive from it."
+
+"Come, brother," Drake said, "explain yourself clearly; we are
+listening to you with the most earnest attention."
+
+"To the northwest of St. Domingo, and only separated from it by a
+narrow channel, there is an island about eight leagues long, surrounded
+by rocks called the iron coast, which render any landing impossible,
+except at the south, where there is a fine port, whose bottom is
+composed of sand, and where vessels are sheltered from all winds,
+which, besides, are not violent in those parts; there are also a few
+sandy bays scattered along the coast, but they are only approachable
+by canoes. This island is called Tortuga or Tortoise Island, owing
+to its shape, which slightly resembles that animal. Here it is,
+brothers, I propose that we should form our principal establishment,
+or, if you prefer it, our headquarters. The Port of Peace, and Port
+Margot, situated facing Tortoise Isle, will enable us to keep up an
+easy communication with St. Domingo: sheltered in our island, as in
+an impregnable fortress, we shall brave the efforts of the whole
+Spanish power. But I do not wish to deceive you, and must tell you
+everything; the Spaniards are on their guard; they have foreseen that
+if buccaneering goes on, that is to say, if they do not succeed in
+destroying us, the excellent position of that island would not escape
+our notice, and that we should probably attempt to seize on it: hence
+they have had it occupied by twenty-five soldiers, commanded by an
+alferez. Do not smile, brothers; although the garrison is small, it
+is sufficient, owing to the manner in which it is entrenched, and the
+difficulties a landing offers; and then, too, it can easily obtain
+reinforcements from the Grande Terre in a very short time. I have often
+landed in disguise on Tortoise Isle. I have inspected it with the
+greatest care, and hence you can attach the most entire confidence to
+the information I am giving you."
+
+"Montbarts is right," Yoc, the Brazilian, said at this moment; "I know
+Tortoise Isle, and, like him, I am persuaded that island will offer us
+a far surer and more advantageous shelter than St. Kitts."
+
+"Now, brothers," Montbarts resumed, "reflect, and answer yes or no. If
+you accept my offer I will prepare to realize my plan by seizing the
+island; if you refuse, I will never mention it again."
+
+And, in order by his absence to give more liberty for discussion, the
+adventurer left the room, and proceeded to the terrace in front of the
+hatto, where he began walking up and down, apparently indifferent to
+what was going on, but in his heart very anxious as to the result of
+the deliberation.
+
+He had only been walking up and down for a few minutes, when a slight
+whistle was audible a short distance off, so gently modulated, that
+it needed all the sharpness of hearing with which the filibuster was
+endowed, to catch it.
+
+He walked rapidly in the direction where this species of signal had
+been heard. At the same moment, a man lying on the ground, and so
+thoroughly concealed by the gloom that it was impossible to perceive
+him unless he was known to be there, raised his head, and displayed
+in the white moonbeams the copper face, and delicate and intelligent
+features of a Carib.
+
+"Omopoua?" the filibuster said.
+
+"I am waiting!" the Indian laconically answered, as he sprang up at one
+bound, and stood erect before him.
+
+Omopoua, that is to say, the leaper, was a young man of twenty-five
+years of age at the most, of a tall and admirably proportioned stature,
+whose skin had the gilded shade of Florentine bronze. He was naked,
+with the exception of thin canvas drawers, fastening round his hips,
+and falling nearly to his knees. His long, black hair, parted in the
+centre of his head, fell on his shoulders on either side. He had no
+other weapons but a long knife, and a bayonet passed through a cowhide
+belt.
+
+"Has the man arrived?" Montbarts asked.
+
+"He has."
+
+"Has Omopoua seen him?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Does he fancy himself recognised?"
+
+"Only the eye of a determined foe could guess him beneath his disguise."
+
+"That is well! My brother will conduct me to him?"
+
+"I will lead the pale chief."
+
+"Good! Where shall I find Omopoua an hour after sunrise?"
+
+"Omopoua will be in his hut."
+
+"I will come there;" and, hearing several voices calling him from the
+interior of the hatto, he said, "I reckon on the Indian's promise."
+
+"Yes, if the chief keeps his."
+
+"I shall keep it."
+
+After exchanging a last meaning look with the filibuster, the
+Carib glided down the face of the cliff, and disappeared almost
+instantaneously.
+
+Montbarts remained for a moment motionless, plunged in deep thought;
+then, giving a sudden start, and passing his hand over his forehead, as
+if to efface any sign of emotion, he hastily re-entered the hatto.
+
+The deliberation was ended. The filibusters had returned to their
+seats, and Montbarts went back to his, and waited with affected
+indifference, till one of his comrades thought proper to speak.
+
+"Brother," David then said, "we have thoroughly discussed your
+proposal. My comrades authorize me to tell you that they accept it, but
+they merely desire to know what means you intend to employ in carrying
+out your plan, and insuring its success?"
+
+"Brothers, I thank you," Montbarts replied, "for giving me your
+consent. As to the means I intend to employ in seizing Tortoise Isle,
+permit me, for the present, to keep them secret, as the success of the
+expedition depends on it. You need only be told that I do not wish to
+compromise the interests of anyone, and that I intend to run all the
+risk alone."
+
+"You do not understand me, brother, or else I have explained myself
+badly," David replied. "If I asked you in what way you proposed to act,
+I was not at all impelled by a puerile curiosity, but because, in so
+serious a question, which interests the entire association, we have
+resolved to accompany you, and to die or conquer with you. We wish
+to share the honour of the triumph, or assume a part of the defeat."
+Montbarts felt involuntarily affected by these generous words, so nobly
+pronounced; and by a spontaneous movement he held out his hands to the
+filibusters, who pressed them energetically, and said,--
+
+"You are right, brothers. We must all share in the great work which, I
+hope, will at length place us in the position to achieve great things.
+We will all go to Tortoise Island. But I will ask you--and believe me
+that I am not speaking thus through any ambitious motive--to let me
+conduct the expedition."
+
+"Are you not our chief?" the filibusters exclaimed.
+
+"We will obey you according to the laws of buccaneering," David added.
+"The man who conceives an expedition has alone the right to command. We
+will be your soldiers."
+
+"That is settled, brothers. Tomorrow morning, at eleven, after
+attending the sale of the new engages, who arrived from France the
+day before yesterday, I will go to the governor, and tell him I am
+preparing a fresh expedition, and enlistment can begin at once."
+
+"Not one of us will be missing at the rendezvous," said Belle Tete. "I
+must buy two engages to fill the places of two idlers, who have just
+died of sheer idleness."
+
+"That is settled," said Bartholomew. "At eleven o'clock we will all be
+at Basse Terre."
+
+They then rose and prepared to retire: for the whole night had passed
+away in these discussions, and the sun, although still beneath the
+horizon, was already beginning to tinge it with a purple hue, that
+testified it would soon appear.
+
+"By the way," Montbarts said, with an indifferent air to Morgan, whom
+with the rest he accompanied to the head of the path; "if you are not
+greatly attached to your Carib--I forget how you call him--"
+
+"Omopoua?"
+
+"Ah! yes. Well, I was saying that if you were not indisposed to part
+with him, I should feel obliged by your letting me have him."
+
+"Do you want him?"
+
+"Yes. I think he will be useful to me."
+
+"In that case, take him, brother. I yield him to you, although he is a
+good workman, and I am satisfied with him."
+
+"Thanks, brother. What value do you set on him?"
+
+"Well, I will not bargain with you, brother. I saw a rather handsome
+fusil in your house. Give it to me, and take the Indian, and we shall
+be quits."
+
+"Wait a minute, then."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because I will give you the fusil at once. You will send me the
+Indian; or, if I have time, I will call and fetch him during the day."
+
+The filibuster returned to the hatto, took down the fusil, and carried
+it to Morgan, who threw it on his shoulder with a movement of joy.
+
+"Well, that is settled," he said. "Good-bye, for the present."
+
+"We shall meet again soon," Montbarts answered, and they separated.
+
+Montbarts threw a thick cloak over his shoulders, put on a broad
+brimmed hat, whose brim fell over his face, and concealed his features,
+and then turning to Michael, said:
+
+"Mate, an important matter obliges me to go to Basse Terre; you will
+go to our governor, the Chevalier de Fontenay, and without entering
+into any details, and being very careful not to betray our secret, you
+will simply warn him that I am preparing a fresh expedition."
+
+"Very good, mate, I will go," Michael answered.
+
+"You will then examine the lugger, and occupy yourself with Bowline, in
+getting her ready to put to sea."
+
+After giving these instructions to the two sailors, Montbarts left the
+house, and descended the cliff.
+
+The Chevalier de Fontenay, like M. d'Esnambuc, whom he had succeeded
+two years before as governor of St. Kitts, was a cadet of Normandy, who
+had come to the isles to try his fortune, and before becoming governor
+had joined in many buccaneering expeditions. He was exactly the man
+they wanted; he left them at liberty to act as they pleased, never
+asked them for any accounts, understood at half a word, and contented
+himself with raising a tithe on the prizes--a voluntary tribute which
+the adventurers paid him in return for the protection he was supposed
+to give them in the king's name by legitimating their position.
+
+The sun had risen, a fresh sea breeze caused the leaves to rustle, and
+the birds were singing on the branches. Montbarts walked on hurriedly,
+looking neither to the right nor left, and apparently plunged in deep
+thought.
+
+On reaching the entrance of the village of Basse Terre, instead of
+entering it, he skirted it, and going along a narrow path that crossed
+a tobacco plantation, he went toward the interior of the island,
+proceeding in the direction of Mount Misery, whose rise was already
+perceptible beneath his feet.
+
+After a very long walk, the filibuster at length stopped at the
+entrance of a dry gorge, on one of the slopes of which stood a wretched
+hut of tree trunks, poorly covered with palm leaves. A man was standing
+in the doorway of this cabin: on perceiving Montbarts he uttered a cry
+of joy and rushed toward him, running over the rocks with the rapidity
+and lightness of a deer.
+
+This man was Omopoua, the Carib; on coming up to the filibuster, he
+fell on his knees.
+
+"Rise," the adventurer said to him, "what have you to thank me for?"
+
+"My master told me an hour ago that I no longer belonged to him, but to
+you."
+
+"Well, did I not promise it to you?"
+
+"That is true, but the white men always promise, and never keep their
+word."
+
+"You see a proof of the contrary; come, get up, your master has sold
+you to me, it is true, but I give you your liberty; you have now but
+one master, God."
+
+The Indian rose, laid his hand on his chest, tottered, his features
+were contracted, and for a moment he seemed suffering from a violent
+internal emotion, which in spite of all the power he had over himself,
+he could not succeed in mastering.
+
+Montbarts, calm and gloomy, examined him attentively, while fixing a
+scrutinizing glance upon him.
+
+At length the Indian succeeded in speaking, though his voice issued
+from his throat like a whistle.
+
+"Omopoua was a renowned chief among his people," he said; "a Spaniard
+had degraded him by making him a slave, through treachery, and selling
+him like a beast of burden: you restore Omopoua to the rank from which
+he ought never to have descended. It is well, you lose a bad slave,
+but gain a devoted friend; were it not for you I should be dead--my
+life belongs to you."
+
+Montbarts offered the Carib his hand, which he kissed respectfully.
+
+"Do you intend to remain at Saint Kitts, or would you like to return to
+Haiti?"
+
+"The family of Omopoua," the Indian replied, "and what remains of his
+people, are wandering about the savannahs of Bohis, but where you go, I
+will go."
+
+"Very good, you shall follow me; now lead me to the man, you know whom."
+
+"At once."
+
+"Are you certain he is a Spaniard?"
+
+"I am."
+
+"You do not know for what motives he has entered the island?"
+
+"I do not."
+
+"And at what place has he sought shelter?"
+
+"With an Englishman."
+
+"In the English colony there?"
+
+"No; at Basse Terre."
+
+"All the better. What is the Englishman's name?"
+
+"Captain William Drake."
+
+"Captain Drake!" Montbarts exclaimed with surprise, "It is impossible."
+
+"It is so."
+
+"In that case, the Captain does not know him."
+
+"No; the man entered his house and asked for hospitality, and the
+Captain could not refuse it to him."
+
+"That is true; go up to my hatto, take clothes, a fusil--in short, what
+weapons you like, and come to me at Captain Drake's; if I am no longer
+there, you will find me on the port; begone."
+
+Montbarts then turned back, and proceeded toward Basse Terre, while the
+Carib went towards the hatto as the bird flies, according to Indian
+custom.
+
+Basse Terre was the entrepot, or to speak more correctly, the
+headquarters of the French colony: at the period when our story is laid
+it was only a miserable township, built without order, according to the
+caprice or convenience of each owner, an agglomeration of huts, rather
+than a town, but producing at a distance a most picturesque effect
+through this very chaos of houses of all shapes and sizes, thus grouped
+along the seashore, in front of magnificent roads, filled with vessels
+swinging at their anchors, and constantly furrowed by an infinite
+number of canoes.
+
+A battery of six guns, built on an advanced point, defended the
+entrance of the roads.
+
+But in this town, apparently so mean, dirty, and wretched, it was
+possible to watch the circulation of the life full of sap, vigour, and
+violence belonging to the strange inhabitants, unique in the world, who
+formed its heterogeneous population. The narrow gloomy streets were
+crowded with people of every description and colour, who came and went
+with a busy air.
+
+There were pothouses at the corner of all the streets and squares,
+perambulating dealers shouted their goods in a ropy voice, and public
+criers, followed by a crowd which was swelled at every step by all the
+idlers, announced with a mighty noise of trumpets and drums, the sale
+on that very day of the engages, who had just arrived in a Company's
+vessel.
+
+Montbarts passed unnoticed through the crowd, and reached the door
+of Captain Drake's house--a rather handsome looking and cleanly kept
+house, which stood on the seashore at no great distance from the
+governor's residence.
+
+The filibuster pushed the door, which, according to the custom of the
+country, was not locked, and entered the house.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+THE SPY.
+
+
+Montbarts, as we said, walked into the house.
+
+There were two persons in the first room, which was contrived a double
+debt to pay, as half sitting room, half kitchen.
+
+These two persons were an engage of Captain Drake and a stranger.
+
+As for the Captain, he was absent at the moment.
+
+The filibuster's eye flashed at the sight of the stranger, and an
+ill-omened smile curled his pale lips.
+
+As for the latter, he was seated at a table in the middle of the room,
+and quietly breakfasting on a piece of cold bacon, washed down by a
+bottle of Bordeaux,--a wine, let us remark, parenthetically, which,
+though unknown in Paris till the reign of Louis XV., when the Duc de
+Richelieu brought it into fashion on his return from the government of
+Guyenne--had been for a long time appreciated in America.
+
+The stranger was of rather tall stature, with a pale face, and ascetic
+features, thin, bony, and angular; but his noble manners indicated a
+high rank in society, which rank his simple and even more than modest
+costume tried in vain to conceal.
+
+On the filibuster's entrance, the stranger, without raising his head,
+took a side-glance at him from under his long velvety eyelashes, and
+again became absorbed or appeared to be so, in the contemplation of
+the capital breakfast set before him.
+
+Everything was in common among the filibusters, everyone took from
+the other, whether he was at home or not, anything he wanted, arms,
+gunpowder, clothes or food, and the person from whom it was taken had
+no right to protest or make the slightest observation; this was not
+merely admitted and tolerated, but was regarded as a right which all
+took advantage of without the slightest scruple.
+
+Montbarts, after looking round the room, took a chair, seated himself
+unceremoniously opposite the stranger, and turning to the engage, said--
+
+"Bring me some breakfast--I am hungry."
+
+The other, without venturing the slightest remark, immediately prepared
+to obey.
+
+In a very short time he had served up an excellent breakfast for the
+filibuster, and then took his place behind his chair to wait on him.
+
+"My friend," the filibuster said, carelessly, "I thank you; but when I
+take my meals I do not like to have anybody behind me. Leave the room,
+but remain in front of the house door;" and he added, with a singularly
+meaning glance, "let no one enter here without my orders: no one--you
+understand me?" he said, laying a stress on the words; "Not even your
+master, were he to come. Can I depend on you?"
+
+"Yes, Montbarts," said the engage, and left the room.
+
+At the name of Montbarts, uttered by the servant, the stranger gave
+an almost imperceptible start, and fixed an anxious glance on the
+filibuster; but immediately recovering himself, he began eating again
+in the most perfect tranquillity, or at least apparently so.
+
+For his part, Montbarts went on eating without troubling himself, or
+seeming to trouble himself, about the guest seated just opposite to him.
+
+This performance went on for some minutes; no other sound was heard
+in the room, where such violent passions were smouldering, but that
+produced by the knives and forks scratching on the platters.
+
+At length Montbarts raised his head and looked at the stranger.
+
+"You are very taciturn, sir," he said to him, with the simple air of
+a man who is wearied at a lengthened silence, and wishes to get up a
+conversation.
+
+"I, sir?" the stranger replied, as he looked up in his turn with the
+calmest air; "Not that I am aware of."
+
+"Still, sir," the filibuster resumed, "I would remark, that during the
+quarter of an hour I have had the honour of passing in your company,
+you have not once addressed a syllable to me, not even in greeting."
+
+"Pray excuse me, sir," the stranger said, with a slight bow; "the
+fault is entirely involuntary: besides, as I have not the advantage of
+knowing you--?
+
+"Are you quite sure of that, sir?" the adventurer interrupted,
+ironically.
+
+"At least, I think so; hence, having nothing to say to you, I suppose
+that it would be useless to begin a conversation which would have no
+object."
+
+"Who knows, sir?" the filibuster remarked, jeeringly; "Conversations
+the most frivolous at the outset, frequently become very interesting at
+the expiration of a few minutes."
+
+"I doubt whether that would be the case with ours, sir. Permit me,
+therefore, to break it off at once. Besides, I have finished my
+meal," the stranger said, rising; "and some serious business claims
+my attention. Pray forgive me, therefore, for parting company so
+hurriedly, and believe in the sincerity of my regret."
+
+The adventurer did not leave his seat, but throwing himself back in it
+with a graceful nonchalance, while playing with the knife he held in
+his hand, he said in his gentle insinuating voice--
+
+"Pardon me, my dear sir; only one word, pray."
+
+"In that case make haste, sir," the stranger replied, as he stopped,
+"for I am greatly pressed for time, I assure you."
+
+"Oh! You will certainly grant me a few minutes," the adventurer
+remarked, with the old sarcasm.
+
+"As you desire it so eagerly, I will not refuse it you, sir. But I
+really am in a hurry."
+
+"I have no doubt on that point, sir; more especially hurried to leave
+this house--is it not so?"
+
+"What do you mean, sir?" the stranger asked, haughtily.
+
+"I mean," the adventurer replied, as he rose and placed himself between
+the stranger and the door, "that it is useless to feign any longer, and
+that you are recognized."
+
+"I recognized? I do not understand you. What does this language mean?"
+
+"It means," Montbarts said brutally, "that you are a spy and a traitor,
+and that you will be hanged within ten minutes."
+
+"I?" the stranger replied, with very cleverly assumed surprise; "Why,
+you must be mad, sir, or suffering under a strange mistake. Let me
+pass, I request."
+
+"I am not mad or mistaken, Senor Don Antonio de la Ronda."
+
+The stranger started, a livid pallor covered his face, but he
+immediately recovered himself.
+
+"Why, this is madness!" he said.
+
+"Sir," Montbarts remarked, still calm, but remaining in front of the
+door, "when I affirm, you deny. It is evident that one of us lies, or
+is mistaken. Now I declare that it is not I, hence it must be you; and
+to remove your last doubts on this point, listen to this, but first be
+good enough to resume your seat. We shall have, however much it may
+annoy you, to converse for some time and I will remark, that it is a
+very bad taste to talk standing face to face like two gamecocks ready
+to fly at each other's combs, when it is possible to act otherwise."
+
+Mastered, in spite of himself, by the adventurer's flashing glance
+obstinately fixed on him, and by his sharp, imperative accent, the
+stranger returned to his seat, and fell into it rather than sat down.
+
+"Now, sir," the filibuster continued, in the same calm voice, as he
+reseated himself and placed his elbows on the table, "in order at once
+to dissipate all the doubts you may have, and to prove to you that I
+know more about you than you will doubtless like, let me tell you your
+history in a couple of words."
+
+"Sir!" the stranger interrupted.
+
+"Oh, fear nothing," he added, with studied sarcasm, "I shall be brief:
+I no more like than you do to waste my time in idle discourses; but
+just notice, by the bye, that, as I prophesied, our conversation, at
+first frivolous, has suddenly grown interesting. Is not this singular,
+I ask you?"
+
+"I am awaiting your explanation, sir," the stranger replied, coolly;
+"for, up to the present, whatever you may say, I do not comprehend a
+word of all that it pleases you to say to me."
+
+"By Heavens! You are a man after my heart. I was not mistaken about
+you. Brave, cold, and crafty, you are worthy to be a filibuster, and to
+lead an adventurous life with us."
+
+"You do me a great honour, sir; but all this does not tell me--"
+
+"Zounds! I am coming to it, sir--a little patience. How quick you are!
+Take care: in your profession a man must be cool before all else, and
+you are not so at this moment."
+
+"You are very witty, sir," the stranger said, bowing ironically to his
+opponent.
+
+The latter was offended by this sudden attack, and smote the table with
+his fist.
+
+"Here is your history in two words, sir," he said. "You are an
+Andalusian, born at Malaga, a younger son, and consequently destined to
+take orders. One fine day, not feeling any liking for the tonsure, you
+fled from the paternal roof and embarked on a Spanish vessel bound for
+Hispaniola. Your name is Don Antonio de la Ronda. You see, sir, that up
+to this point I am well informed, am I not?"
+
+"Pray go on, sir," the stranger replied, with perfect coolness; "your
+remarks are most interesting." Montbarts shrugged his shoulders, and
+went on.
+
+"On arriving at Hispaniola, you contrived, in a short time, thanks to
+your good looks and polished manners, to secure powerful protectors;
+and thus, though you only left Europe three years ago, you have
+made such rapid progress, that you are at present one of the most
+influential men in the colony. Unluckily--"
+
+"Do you say unluckily?" the stranger interrupted with a jeering smile.
+
+"Yes, sir," the adventurer replied imperturbably; "unluckily your
+fortune turned your head so thoroughly--"
+
+"So thoroughly?"
+
+"That in defiance of your friends, you were arrested and threatened
+with a trial for embezzling a sum of nearly two million piastres; a
+noble amount, on which I compliment you. Any other man but you, sir, I
+feel a pleasure in allowing the fact, would have been ruined, or nearly
+so, as the case was very serious; and the Council of the Indies does
+not joke on money matters."
+
+"Permit me to interrupt you, my dear sir," the stranger said with the
+most perfect ease; "you are telling this story in a very talented
+manner, but if you go on so, it threatens to last indefinitely. If you
+permit it, I will finish it in a few words."
+
+"Ah! Ah! Then you allow its truth now?"
+
+"Of course," the stranger said with admirable coolness.
+
+"You acknowledge yourself to be Don Antonio de la Ronda?"
+
+"Why should I deny it longer, when you are so well informed?"
+
+"Better still; so that you confess to fraudulently entering the colony
+for the object of--"
+
+"I confess anything you like," the Spaniard said quickly.
+
+"Well, that being well established, you deserve to be hung, and you
+will be so in a few minutes."
+
+"Well, no," he replied without losing any of his coolness; "that is
+where we differ essentially in opinion, sir, your conclusion is not in
+the least logical."
+
+"What?" the adventurer exclaimed, surprised at this sudden change of
+humour which he did not expect.
+
+"I said that your conclusion was not logical."
+
+"I heard you perfectly."
+
+"And I am going to prove it," he continued; "grant me in your turn a
+few moments' attention."
+
+"Very good; we must be merciful to those who are about to die."
+
+"You are very kind; but thank Heaven I am not there yet. There's many a
+slip between the cup and the lip, as a very sensible proverb says."
+
+"Go on," the filibuster said with an ominous smile.
+
+But the Spaniard was not affected.
+
+"It is evident to me, sir, that you have some business or bargain to
+propose to me."
+
+"I?"
+
+"Certainly, and for this reason; having recognized me as a spy, for
+I must allow that I am really one (you see that I am frank in my
+confession), nothing was easier for you than to have me strung up to
+the nearest tree, without any form of trial."
+
+"Yes, but I am going to do so."
+
+"No, you will not do it now, and for this reason. You believe for
+reasons I am ignorant of, for I will not insult you by supposing that
+you had a feeling of pity for me, you who are so justly called by my
+countrymen the Exterminator--you believe, I say, that I can serve you,
+be useful to you in the success of one of your plans; consequently
+instead of having me hanged, as you would have done under any other
+circumstances, you came straight to find me here, where I fancied
+myself well hidden, in order to converse with me, like one friend with
+another. Well, I ask for nothing better, come, speak, I am listening;
+what do you want of me?"
+
+And after uttering these words with the most easy air he could assume,
+Don Antonio threw himself back in his chair delicately rolling a
+cigarette between his fingers.
+
+The filibuster gazed for a moment at the Spaniard with a surprise which
+he did not attempt to conceal, and then burst into a laugh.
+
+"That will do," he said, "I prefer that; at least there will be no
+misunderstanding between us. Yes, you have guessed correctly, I have a
+proposal to make to you."
+
+"That was not difficult to discover, sir; and pray what is the nature
+of the proposal?"
+
+"Well, it is very simple, I only require you to act exactly in the
+opposite way to what you intended, to change sides, in short."
+
+"Very good, I understand, that is to say, instead of betraying you for
+the advantage of Spain, I am to betray Spain for your profit."
+
+"Yes, you see it is easy."
+
+"Very easy, in fact, but decidedly shabby; and supposing that I consent
+to your request, what advantage shall I derive from it?"
+
+"In the first place I need hardly say that you will not be hung."
+
+"Pooh! To die by hanging, drowning, or a musket ball, is always much
+the same thing. I should desire a more distinct benefit, with your
+leave."
+
+"Confound it, you are difficult to satisfy, then it is nothing to save
+one's neck from a slip knot?"
+
+"My dear sir, when, as in my case, a man has nothing to lose and
+consequently everything to gain by any change in his position, death is
+rather a comfort than a calamity."
+
+"You are a philosopher, so it seems."
+
+"No, confound it! such absurdity never troubled me, I am merely a
+desperate man."
+
+"That is often the same thing; but let us return to our matter."
+
+"Yes, that will be better."
+
+"Well! I offer you my whole share of the first ship I take; does that
+suit you?"
+
+"That is something better; but unluckily the ship to which you refer is
+like the bear in the fable, not caught yet; I should prefer something
+more substantial."
+
+"Well, I see I must yield to you; serve me well and I will reward you
+so generously that the King of Spain himself could not do more."
+
+"Well, that is agreed, I'll run the risk; now be kind enough to tell me
+the nature of the service you expect from me?"
+
+"I wish you to help me in taking by surprise Tortoise Island, where
+you lived for a long time, and where, if I do not err, you still have
+friends."
+
+"I see no inconvenience in trying that, although I will begin by making
+my reservations."
+
+"What are they?"
+
+"That I do not pledge myself to insure the success of your hazardous
+undertaking."
+
+"That remark is fair, but do not alarm yourself, if the Island is well
+defended, it shall be well attacked."
+
+"I am convinced; now for the next matter."
+
+"I will let you know it when the time arrives, senor; for the present,
+other business engages our attention."
+
+"As you please, sir, you will be the best judge of the opportunity."
+
+"Now, sir, as I had the honour of telling you at the outset, since I
+know you to be a very sharp hand, and very capable of slipping through
+my fingers like an eel, without the slightest scruple, and as I wish to
+avoid that eventuality, and save you any notion of the sort, you will
+do me the pleasure of going at once aboard my lugger."
+
+"A prisoner!" the Spaniard said with a gesture of ill humour.
+
+"Not as a prisoner, my dear Don Antonio, but regarded as a hostage, and
+treated as such, that is to say, with all the attention compatible with
+our common security."
+
+"Still, the word of a gentleman--"
+
+"Is valued between gentlemen, I allow, but with us _Ladrones_, as you
+call us, it has no value in my opinion; you hidalgos of old Spain,
+even make it a case of conscience to violate it without the slightest
+scruple, when your interest invites you to do so."
+
+Don Antonio hung his head; recognizing in his heart, though unwilling
+to allow it, the exact truth, of the filibuster's words.
+
+The latter enjoyed for a moment the Spaniard's discomfiture, and then
+rapped the table twice or thrice with the handle of his knife.
+
+The captain's engage at once entered the room.
+
+"What do you want of me, Montbarts?" he asked.
+
+"Tell me, my good fellow," the adventurer asked, "have you not seen a
+red Carib prowling round this house?"
+
+"Pardon me, Montbarts, a Carib asked me only a moment ago, whether you
+were here, and I answered in the affirmative, but I did not like to
+transgress the orders I had received from you, and allow him to enter
+as he desired."
+
+"Very good. Did not the man mention his name?"
+
+"On the contrary, that was the very first thing he did; it is Omopoua."
+
+"The very man I was expecting; tell him to come in, pray, for he is
+sure to be hanging about the door; and come with him."
+
+The engage went out.
+
+"What do you want with this man?" the Spaniard asked with a shade of
+anxiety, which did not escape the adventurer's sharp eye.
+
+"This Indian is simply intended to be your guard of honour," he said.
+
+"Hum! It really seems as if you are anxious to keep me."
+
+"Extremely so, senor."
+
+At this moment, the engage returned followed by the Carib, who had
+made no change in his primitive costume; but had taken advantage of
+Montbarts' permission to arm himself to the teeth.
+
+"Omopoua and you, my friend, listen attentively to what I am going to
+say to you; you see this man?" he said pointing to the Spaniard who was
+still perfectly impassive.
+
+"We see him," they answered.
+
+"You will take him on board the lugger and hand him over to my mate,
+Michael the Basque, recommending him to watch over his guest most
+attentively! If, during the passage from here to the vessel, this man
+attempts to take to flight, blow out his brains without mercy. Have you
+understood me thoroughly?"
+
+"Yes," said the engage, "trust to us, we answer for him with our heads."
+
+"That is well, I accept your word; and now, sir," he added, addressing
+Don Antonio, "be good enough to follow these two men."
+
+"I yield to force, sir."
+
+"Very good, that is how I regard the matter, but reassure yourself,
+your captivity will be neither harsh nor long, and I shall keep the
+promises I have made you, if you keep yours. Now, go and farewell for
+the present."
+
+The Spaniard, without replying, placed himself between his two keepers
+voluntarily and left the room.
+
+Montbarts remained alone.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+THE SLAVE SALE.
+
+
+A moment after Montbarts rose, put on his cloak, which he had thrown on
+a chair when he came in, and prepared to quit the house.
+
+On the threshold he found himself face to face with Captain Drake.
+
+"Ah," said the latter, "here you are."
+
+"Yes! I have been breakfasting at your house."
+
+"You did well."
+
+"Will you accompany me to the sale?"
+
+"I do not want any hired man."
+
+"Nor I, but you know the enlistment will commence immediately
+afterwards."
+
+"That is true; let me say a word first to my engage, and I will follow
+you."
+
+"He has gone out."
+
+"Why! I ordered him not to leave the house."
+
+"I have given him a commission."
+
+"Oh! That is different."
+
+"You do not ask me what the commission is I have given your engage,"
+Montbarts remarked a moment later.
+
+"Why should I? It does not concern me, I suppose."
+
+"More than you imagine, brother."
+
+"Nonsense, how so?"
+
+"You offered hospitality to a stranger, did you not?"
+
+"Yes, but what of that?"
+
+"You shall see. This stranger, whom you do not know, for of course you
+do not--"
+
+"No more than Adam; what do I care who he is? hospitality is one of
+those things which cannot be refused."
+
+"That is true, but I recognized the man."
+
+"Ah, ah, and who is he then?"
+
+"Nothing less than a Spanish spy, brother."
+
+"My God!" the captain said, stopping dead short.
+
+"What is the matter with you now?"
+
+"Nothing, nothing, except that I will go and blow out his brains,
+unless you have done so already."
+
+"Pray, do nothing of the sort; this man, I feel convinced, brother,
+will prove very useful to us."
+
+"Nonsense, how so?"
+
+"Leave me to act; if we manage properly, we may draw profit even from a
+Spanish spy; in the meanwhile, I have had him taken on board the lugger
+by your engage, and a man of my own, where he will be watched so that
+he cannot part company."
+
+"I trust to you for that, and thank you, brother, for having freed me
+from the scoundrel."
+
+While talking thus, the two men arrived at the spot where the sale of
+the engages to the colonists was to take place.
+
+On the right of the square was a spacious shed, built of clumsily
+planed planks, and open to the wind and rain; in the centre of the shed
+was a table for the officials and secretaries of the company, who had
+to manage the sale and draw up the contracts; an easy chair had been
+set apart for the governor, by the side of a rather lofty platform,
+on which each engage, male or female, mounted in turn, so that the
+purchasers might examine them at their ease.
+
+These wretches, deceived by the company's agents in Europe, had
+contracted engagements, whose consequences they did not at all
+understand, and were convinced that, on their arrival in America,
+with the exception of a certain tax they had to pay the company for a
+certain period, they would be completely free to earn their livelihood
+as they thought proper. The majority were carpenters, masons and
+bricklayers, but there were also among them ruined gentlemen and
+libertines who detest work and who imagined that in America, the
+country of gold, fortune would visit them while they slept.
+
+A company's ship had arrived a few days previously and brought one
+hundred and fifty engages, among them were several young and pretty
+women, thoroughly vitiated, however, and who, like the Manon Lescault
+of the Abbe Prevost, had been picked up by the police in the streets of
+Paris, and shipped off without further formality.
+
+These women were also sold to the colonists, not apparently as slaves,
+but as wives.
+
+These unions contracted in the gipsy fashion, were only intended to
+last a settled time which must not exceed seven years, unless with
+the mutual consent of the couple, though the clause was hardly ever
+appealed to by them; at the end of that time they separated, and each
+was set at liberty to form a fresh union.
+
+The engages had been landed two days before; these two days had been
+granted them, that they might slightly recover from the fatigue of a
+long sea voyage, walk about and breathe the reviving land breeze, of
+which they had so long been deprived.
+
+At the moment when the two adventurers arrived, the sale had been going
+on for half an hour; the shed was crowded with colonists who desired to
+purchase slaves, for we are compelled to use that odious term, for the
+poor creatures were nothing else.
+
+At the sight of Montbarts, however, whose name was justly celebrated,
+a passage was opened, and he thus succeeded in reaching the side of
+the governor, Chevalier de Fontenay, round whom the most renowned
+adventurers were collected, among them being Michael the Basque.
+
+Monsieur de Fontenay received Montbarts with distinction; he even
+rose from his chair and walked two or three steps to meet him, which
+the filibusters considered in very good taste, and felt grateful to
+him for it; this honour paid to the most celebrated among them cast a
+reflection on them all.
+
+After exchanging a few compliments with the governor, Montbarts bent
+down to Michael's ear.
+
+"Well, mate?" he said to him.
+
+"The Spaniard is aboard," Michael replied, "and carefully watched by
+Bowline."
+
+"In that case I can be at my ease?"
+
+"Perfectly."
+
+During this aside, the sale had been going on.
+
+All the male engages had been sold, with the exception of one who was
+standing at this moment on the platform, by the side of a company's
+agent, who acted as auctioneer, and praised the qualities of the human
+merchandise he offered.
+
+This engage was a short, stout, powerfully built man, from twenty-five
+to twenty-six years of age, with harsh, energetic, but intelligent
+features, whose grey eyes sparkled with audacity and good humour.
+
+"Pierre Nau, native of the sands of Olonne," said the company's agent,
+"twenty-five years of age, powerful and in good health, a sailor.
+Who'll say forty crowns for the Olonnais, forty crowns for three years,
+gentlemen."
+
+"Come, come," said the engage, "if the person who buys me is a man, he
+will have a good bargain."
+
+"Going for forty crowns," the company's agent repeated, "forty crowns,
+gentlemen."
+
+Montbarts turned to the engage.
+
+"What, you scoundrel," he said to him, "you a sailor and sell yourself
+instead of joining us? You have no pluck."
+
+The Olonnais began laughing.
+
+"You know nothing about it. I have sold myself, because I must do so,"
+he answered, "so that my mother may be able to live during my absence."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"How does it concern you? You are not my master, and even if you were,
+you would have no right to inquire into my private affairs."
+
+"You seem to me a bold fellow," Montbarts remarked.
+
+"Indeed, I believe I am; besides, I wish to become an adventurer like
+you fellows, and for that purpose I must serve my apprenticeship to the
+trade."
+
+"Going for forty crowns," cried the agent.
+
+Montbarts examined with the most serious attention the engage, whose
+firm glance he could hardly manage to quell; then, doubtless satisfied
+with his triumph, he turned to the agent.
+
+"That will do," he said, "hold your row: I buy this man."
+
+"The Olonnais is adjudged to Montbarts the exterminator, for forty
+crowns," the agent said.
+
+"Here they are," the adventurer answered as he threw a handful of
+silver on the table; "now come," he ordered the Olonnais, "you are now
+my engage."
+
+The latter leapt joyously off the platform and ran up to him.
+
+"So you are Montbarts the exterminator?" he asked him curiously.
+
+"I think you are questioning me," the adventurer said with a laugh,
+"still, as your question appears to me very natural, I will answer it
+this time; yes, I am Montbarts."
+
+"In that case I thank you for buying me, Montbarts; with you I am
+certain soon to become a man."
+
+And at a sign from his new master, he respectfully placed himself
+behind him.
+
+The most curious part of the sale for the adventurers then began, that
+is to say, the sale of the women.
+
+The poor wretches, mostly young and pretty, mounted the platform
+trembling, and in spite of their efforts to keep a good countenance,
+they blushed with shame, and burning tears ran down their cheeks on
+seeing themselves thus exposed before all these men, whose flashing
+eyes were fixed upon them.
+
+The company made its greatest profit by the women, and it was the more
+easy to realise, because they were got for nothing, and sold at the
+highest possible figure.
+
+The men were generally knocked down at a price varying from thirty
+to forty dollars, but never went beyond that; with the women it was
+different, they were put up to auction, and the governor alone had the
+right to stop the sale, when the price appeared to him sufficiently
+high. These women were always sold amid cries, shouts and coarse jests,
+generally addressed to the adventurers who did not fear running the
+risk of venturing on the shoal-beset ocean of marriage.
+
+Belle Tete, that furious adventurer to whom we have already referred,
+and whom we saw at the meeting at the hatto, had, as he had resolved,
+purchased two engages to take the place of the two who had died, so he
+said, of indolence, but, in reality of the blows he dealt them; then,
+instead of returning home he had confided the engages to his overseer;
+for the adventurers, like the slave owners, had overseers, whose duty
+it was to make the white slaves toil; and the adventurer remained in
+the shed watching the sale of the women with the most lively interest.
+
+His friends did not fail to cut jokes at his expense, but he contented
+himself with shrugging his shoulders disdainfully, and stood with
+his hands crossed on the muzzle of his long fusil, and with his eyes
+obstinately fixed on the platform.
+
+A young woman had just taken her place there in her turn; she was a
+frail delicate girl, with light curling hair that fell on her white
+rather thin chest. Her smooth and pensive forehead, her large blue
+eyes full of tears, her fresh cheeks, her little mouth, made her appear
+much younger than she in reality was; she was eighteen years of age,
+and her delicate waist, her well-turned lips, her decent appearance,
+in short everything about her delicious person had a seductive charm,
+which formed a complete contrast with the decided air and vulgar
+manners of the women who had preceded her on the platform, and those
+who would follow her.
+
+"Louise, born at Montmartre, aged eighteen years; who will marry her
+for three years, at the price of fifteen crowns?" the company's agent
+asked in his sarcastic voice.
+
+The poor girl buried her face in her hands and wept bitterly.
+
+"Twenty crowns for Louise," an adventurer shouted, drawing nearer.
+
+"Twenty-five," another said immediately.
+
+"Make her hold her head up so that we can have a look at her," a third
+cried brutally.
+
+"Come, little one," the agent said, as he obliged her to remove her
+hands from her face; "be polite and let them look at you, it is for
+your own good, hang it all! Twenty-five crowns."
+
+"Fifty," said Belle Tete, without moving from the spot.
+
+All eyes were turned to him; up to this moment Belle Tete had professed
+a profound hatred for marriage.
+
+"Sixty," shouted an adventurer who did not desire to buy the girl, but
+wished to annoy his comrade.
+
+"Seventy," said another with the same charitable intention.
+
+"One hundred," Belle Tete shouted angrily.
+
+"One hundred crowns, gentlemen, one hundred for Louise for three
+years," the stoical agent said.
+
+"One hundred and fifty."
+
+"Two hundred."
+
+"Two hundred and fifty."
+
+"Three hundred," several adventurers shouted, almost simultaneously, as
+they drew nearer to the platform.
+
+Belle Tete was pale with rage, for he feared lest she might escape him.
+
+The adventurer had persuaded himself, rightly or wrongly, that he
+wanted a wife to manage his household; now he had seen Louise, Louise
+pleased him, she was for sale, and he resolved to buy her.
+
+"Four hundred crowns!" he said with an air of defiance.
+
+"Four hundred crowns," the company's agent repeated in his monotonous
+voice.
+
+There was a silence.
+
+Four hundred crowns is a large sum; Belle Tete triumphed.
+
+"Five hundred!" a sharp shrill voice suddenly shouted.
+
+The contest was beginning again; the adversaries had only stopped to
+regain their strength.
+
+The company's agent rubbed his hands with a jubilant air, while
+repeating,--
+
+"Six hundred, seven, eight, nine hundred crowns!"
+
+A species of frenzy had seized on the spectators, and all bid
+furiously; the girl was still weeping.
+
+Belle Tete was in a state of fury which approached to madness;
+clutching his fusil frenziedly in his clinched hand, he felt a
+wild temptation to send a bullet into the most determined of his
+competitors. Only the presence of M. de Fontenay restrained him.
+
+"A thousand," he shouted in a hoarse voice.
+
+"One thousand two hundred!" the most obstinate competitor immediately
+yelled.
+
+Belle Tete stamped savagely, threw his fusil on his shoulder, drew his
+cap on to his head with a blow of his fist, and then with a step as
+slow and solemn as that of a statue would be, if a statue could walk,
+he went to place himself by the side of his unendurable rival, and
+letting the butt of his fusil fall heavily on the ground, scarce an
+inch from the man's foot, he looked him in the face for a moment with a
+defiant air, and shouted in a voice choked by emotion,--
+
+"Fifteen hundred!"
+
+The adventurer regarded him in his turn fiercely, fell back a step,
+and, after renewing the powder in the pan of his fusil, said, in a calm
+voice--
+
+"Two thousand!"
+
+Before these two obstinate adversaries the other bidders had prudently
+withdrawn; the competition was turning into a quarrel, and threatened
+to become sanguinary.
+
+A deadly silence brooded over the shed; the over-excited passions of
+these two men had spoiled all the pleasures of the spectators, and
+silenced all their jokes.
+
+The Governor followed with interest the different incidents of this
+struggle, ready to interfere at any moment.
+
+The adventurers had gradually fallen back, and left a large free space
+between the two men.
+
+Belle Tete recoiled a few paces in his turn, suddenly examined the
+priming of his fusil, and then, pointing the latter at his adversary,
+shouted--
+
+"Three thousand!"
+
+The other raised his fusil at the same moment to his shoulder.
+
+"Three thousand five hundred crowns!" he shouted, as he pulled the
+trigger--the fusil was discharged.
+
+But the Governor, with a movement rapid as thought, threw up the barrel
+with the end of his cane, and the ball lodged in the roof.
+
+Belle Tete remained motionless, though, on hearing the shot, he lowered
+his fusil.
+
+"Sir," the Governor exclaimed, indignantly, addressing the adventurer
+who had fired, "You have acted in a dishonourable way, and almost
+committed a murder."
+
+"Governor," the adventurer coolly replied, "when I fired he had his gun
+pointed at me, and hence it is a duel."
+
+The Governor hesitated, for the answer was specious.
+
+"No matter, sir," he continued, a moment later, "the laws of duelling
+were not respected; to punish you I put you out of the bidding. Sir,"
+he said, addressing the company's agent, "I order that the woman, who
+was the cause of this deplorable aggression, be knocked down to Senor
+Belle Tete for three thousand crowns."
+
+The agent bowed with rather an angry look, for the worthy man had
+hoped, from the way things were going on, to reach a much higher
+figure; but he dared not make any observations to Chevalier de
+Fontenay; he must yield, and so he did.
+
+"Louise is adjudged for three thousand crowns," he said, with a sigh of
+regret--not for the woman, but for the money--"to M. Belle Tete."
+
+"Very good, Governor," the baffled adventurer said, with an ugly smile,
+"I must bow to your final sentence; but Belle Tete and I will meet
+again."
+
+"I hope so, too, Picard," Belle Tete answered, coldly; "there must be
+bloodshed between us now." During this time Louise had come down from
+the platform, when another woman took her place, and had stationed
+herself, still weeping, by the side of Belle Tete, who was henceforth
+her lord and master.
+
+M. de Fontenay gave a commiserating glance at the poor girl, who was
+about, in all probability, to endure such a cruel existence with so
+harsh a man, and then gently said to her--
+
+"Madame, from this day you are for three years the legitimate wife of
+M. Belle Tete, and owe him obedience, affection, and fidelity; such are
+the laws of the colony: in three years you will be your own mistress,
+at liberty to leave him or to continue to live with him, if he desire
+it; be good enough to sign this paper."
+
+The unhappy woman, blinded by her tears, and crushed by despair,
+signed, without looking at it, the paper which the Governor offered
+her; then she cast a heart-broken glance at this silent and indifferent
+crowd, in which she knew that she could not find a friend.
+
+"Now, sir," she asked, in a gentle and trembling voice, "what must I
+do?"
+
+"You must follow this man, who will be your husband for three years,"
+M. de Fontenay answered, with a touch of pity, which he could not
+overcome.
+
+At this moment Belle Tete laid his hand on the girl's shoulder; she
+shuddered all over, and looked wildly at him.
+
+"Yes," he said, "my girl, you must follow me; for, as the Governor has
+told you, I am your husband for three years, and till the expiration of
+that time, you will have no other master but me. Now, listen to this,
+my darling, and engrave it carefully on your mind, so as to remember it
+at the right moment: what you have done, what you have been, until now,
+does not concern me, and I care little about it; but," he added, in a
+hollow, ferocious voice, which chilled the poor girl with horror, "from
+this day, from this moment, you belong to me--to me alone: I intrust
+to you my honour, which becomes yours, and if you compromise that
+honour--if you forget your duties," he said, as he dashed the butt end
+of his musket on the ground, so harshly, that the hammer rattled with
+an ill-omened sound, "this will remind you of them; now, follow me."
+
+"Be gentle to her, Belle Tete," M. de Fontenay could not help
+saying--"she is so young."
+
+"I shall be just, Governor: now, thanks for your impartiality, it is
+time for me to retire. Picard, my old friend, you know where to find
+me."
+
+"I shall not fail to come and see you, but I do not, wish to trouble
+your honeymoon," Picard replied, with a growl.
+
+Belle Tete withdrew, followed by his wife.
+
+The sale henceforth offered nothing of interest; the few women
+remaining were sold at prices far inferior to that which Louise had
+fetched, to the great regret, we are bound to add, of the Company's
+agent.
+
+The adventurers were preparing to leave the shed where they imagined
+there was nothing more to see; but at this moment Montbarts mounted the
+platform, and addressed the crowd in a sonorous voice--
+
+"Brothers," he said, "stay, I have an important communication to make
+to you."
+
+The adventurers remained motionless.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+THE ENLISTMENT.
+
+
+All the adventurers assembled round the platform, anxiously awaiting
+what Montbarts had to tell them.
+
+"Brothers," he said, a moment after, "I am preparing a new expedition,
+for which I require three hundred resolute men; who among you will
+follow Montbarts the Exterminator?"
+
+"All, all!" the adventurers shouted, enthusiastically.
+
+The Governor prepared to withdraw.
+
+"Pardon me, Chevalier de Fontenay," Montbarts said, "be kind enough to
+remain a few minutes longer; the expedition I have projected is most
+serious: I am about to dictate a charter party, to which I will ask
+you, as Governor of the colony, to append your signature before that of
+our companions--moreover, I have a bargain to propose to you."
+
+"I will remain, since you desire it, Montbarts," the Governor replied,
+as he returned to his seat; "now be kind enough to inform me of the
+bargain you wish to propose."
+
+"You are the owner, sir, I think, of two brigantines of eighty tons
+each?"
+
+"I am."
+
+"These brigantines are useless to you at this moment, as you appear, at
+least until fresh orders, to have given up cruising, while they will be
+very useful to me."
+
+"In that case, sir, they are at your service from this moment," the
+Governor replied, gallantly.
+
+"I thank you, as I ought, for your politeness, sir, but that is not
+my meaning; in an expedition like the one I meditate, no one can
+foresee what may happen, hence I propose to buy your two ships for four
+thousand crowns cash."
+
+"Very good, sir, since you wish it; I am delighted to be of service to
+you; the two ships are yours."
+
+"I shall have the honour of handing you the four thousand crowns within
+an hour."
+
+The two men bowed; and then the filibuster turned to the adventurers,
+who were waiting, panting with, impatience, and whose curiosity had
+been heightened by the purchase of the two vessels.
+
+"Brothers," he said, in his sonorous and sympathetic voice, "for two
+months past no expedition has been attempted, and no ship has put to
+sea; are you not beginning to grow tired of this idle life which you
+and I are leading? Are you not beginning to run short of money, and
+are not your purses light? Zounds, comrades, come with me, and within
+a fortnight your pockets shall be full of Spanish doubloons, and
+the pretty girls, who today are so coy, will then lavish their most
+charming smiles on you--down with the Spaniards, brothers! Those of
+you who are willing to follow me can give their names to Michael the
+Basque, my mate. Still, as the shares will be large, the danger will
+be great; to obtain them I only want men resolved to conquer or to
+die bravely, without asking quarter of the enemy or granting it; I am
+Montbarts the Exterminator--I grant no mercy to the Spaniards, nor do I
+ask it of them."
+
+Enthusiastic shouts greeted these words, uttered with that accent which
+the celebrated filibuster knew so well how to assume when he wished to
+seduce the individuals he was addressing.
+
+The enlistment began; Michael the Basque had seated himself at the
+table previously occupied by the Company's agent, and wrote down the
+names of the adventurers, who pressed round him in a crowd, and who
+all wished to join in an expedition which they foresaw would be most
+lucrative.
+
+But Michael had received strict instructions from his master: convinced
+that he should not want for men, and that more would offer than he
+needed, he carefully selected those whose names he took, and pitilessly
+rejected those adventurers whose reputation for, we will not say
+bravery, for all were brave as lions, but for reckless daring, was not
+thoroughly established.
+
+Still in spite of Michael's intended strictness, the number of three
+hundred was soon complete. We need scarce say they were the flower
+of the filibusters, all adventurers, the least renowned of whom
+had performed deeds of incredible daring, men with whom attempting
+impossibilities and achieving them had become but mere child's play.
+
+The first inserted were, as had been agreed on the preceding night, the
+members of the society of the Twelve.
+
+Hence M. de Fontenay, who, an old filibuster himself, knew all these
+men, not only by reputation, but from having seen them at work, could
+not recover from his surprise, and incessantly repeated to Montbarts,
+who was standing, calm and smiling at his side, "What can you be after?
+Do you mean to seize on Hispaniola?"
+
+"Who knows?" the filibuster replied sportively.
+
+"Still, I think I have a right to your confidence," the governor said
+in an offended tone.
+
+"The most entire, Sir; still, you are aware that the first condition
+of security in an expedition is secrecy."
+
+"That is true."
+
+"I cannot tell you anything, but do not prevent you from guessing."
+
+"Guessing! But how?"
+
+"Well, perhaps the charter party will set you on the right track."
+
+"Well, let me hear it."
+
+"A little patience still; but stay, here is Michael coming toward me.
+Well," he asked him, "have you completed our number?"
+
+"I should think so; I have three hundred and fifty men."
+
+"Hang it, that is a great number."
+
+"I could not do otherwise than accept them; when it is a question about
+going with Montbarts, it is impossible to keep them back."
+
+"Well, we will take them, if it must be so," Montbarts said with a
+smile, "give me your list."
+
+Michael handed it to him; the filibuster looked round him, and
+perceived an agent of the Company, whom curiosity had kept back, and
+who had remained in the shed to witness the enlistment.
+
+"You are a Company's agent, I think, sir?" he said to him, politely.
+
+"Yes, sir," the agent replied with a bow, "I have that honour."
+
+"In that case, may I ask you to do me a service?"
+
+"Speak, sir, I shall be only too glad to oblige you."
+
+"My companions and myself are no great clerks, and we can use a hatchet
+better than a pen; would it be presuming too much on your kindness to
+ask you to be good enough to serve as my secretary for a few minutes,
+and write down the charter party I shall dictate to you, and which my
+comrades will sign, after having it read to them?"
+
+"I am only too happy, sir, that you deign to honour me with your
+confidence," the agent said with a bow.
+
+Then he seated himself at the table, selected some paper, mended a pen
+and waited.
+
+"Silence, if you please, gentlemen," said the Chevalier de Fontenay,
+who had exchanged a few words in a low voice with Montbarts.
+
+The private conversations were checked, and a profound silence was
+established almost instantaneously. M. de Fontenay continued.
+
+"A filibustering expedition, composed of three ships, two brigantines
+and a lugger, is about to leave St. Kitts, under the command of
+Montbarts, whom I appoint, in the name of His most Christian Majesty,
+Louis, fourteenth of that name, admiral of the fleet. This expedition,
+whose object remains secret, has been joined by 350 men, the flower of
+the filibusters. The three captains chosen to command the ships are,
+Michael the Basque, William Drake, and John David. They are ordered to
+obey in every point the commands they will receive from the admiral,
+and each captain will himself appoint his officers." Then, turning to
+Montbarts, he added, "Now admiral, dictate the charter party."
+
+The adventurer bowed, and addressing the Company's agent, who was
+watching with head and pen erect, he said to him--
+
+"Are you ready, sir?"
+
+"I await your orders."
+
+"In that case write as I dictate."
+
+No expedition ever left port without having previously proclaimed the
+charter party: this document, in which the rights of each man were
+rigorously stipulated, served as the supreme law for these men, who,
+undisciplined though they were ashore, bowed without a murmur to the
+strictest decrees of the naval code: so soon as they had set foot on
+the vessel for which they were engaged, the captain of yesterday became
+a sailor today, accepted without grumbling the eventual inferiority
+which the duration of the cruise alone maintained, and which ended on
+the return to port, by placing each member of the expedition on the
+same level, and on a footing of the most perfect equality.
+
+We quote literally the charter party our readers are about to peruse,
+because from this authentic act they will understand more easily the
+range and power of this strange association, and the manner in which
+the filibusters treated each other.
+
+Montbarts dictated what follows in a calm voice amid the religious
+silence of his auditors, who only interrupted him at intervals, by
+shouts of approbation.
+
+"Charter party decreed by Admiral Montbarts, Captains Michael the
+Basque, William Drake, John David, and the Brethren of the Coast, who
+have voluntarily placed themselves under their orders, and which is
+fully consented to by them."
+
+"The admiral will have a right, in addition to his share, to one man
+per hundred."
+
+"Each captain will receive twelve shares."
+
+"Each brother four shares."
+
+"These shares will only be counted after the king's part has been
+deducted from all the shares."
+
+"The surgeons will receive, in addition to their share, two hundred
+dollars each, as payment for their medicaments."
+
+"The carpenters, in addition to their share, will each, have a claim
+for one hundred dollars, in remuneration of their labours."
+
+"Any disobedience will be punished by death, whatever be the name or
+rank of the culprit."
+
+"The brothers who distinguish themselves in the expedition will be
+rewarded in the following manner--The man who pulls down the enemy's
+flag from a fortress, and hoists the French one, will have a claim, in
+addition to his share, to fifty piastres."
+
+"The man who takes a prisoner, when out in search of news of the enemy,
+will have, in addition to his share, one hundred piastres."
+
+"The grenadiers, for each grenade thrown into a fort, five piastres."
+
+"Any man, who in action captures a high officer of the enemy, will be
+rewarded by the admiral, if he has risked his life, in a generous way."
+
+"Rewards offered, in addition to their share, to the wounded and
+mutilated."
+
+"For the loss of both legs, fifteen hundred crowns, or fifteen slaves,
+at the choice of the recipient: if there are enough slaves."
+
+"For the loss of both arms, eighteen hundred piastres or eighteen
+slaves, at choice."
+
+"For a leg, no distinction between right and left, five hundred
+piastres or five slaves."
+
+"For an eye, one hundred piastres or a slave; for an arm or a hand,
+no distinction between right and left, four hundred piastres or four
+slaves."
+
+"For both eyes, two thousand piastres, or twenty slaves."
+
+"For a finger, one hundred piastres or one slave: if any man be
+dangerously wounded in the body he will have five hundred piastres or
+five slaves."
+
+"It is already understood, that, in the same way, as with the king's
+part, all these rewards will be raised on the whole of the booty,
+before dividing the shares."
+
+"Any enemy's vessel captured either at sea or at anchor, will be
+divided between all the members of the expedition, unless it be
+valued at more than ten thousand crowns, in which case one thousand
+crowns will be set apart for the first ship's crew that boarded: the
+expedition will hoist the royal flag of France, and the admiral bear in
+addition the _red, white, and blue_ flag."
+
+"No officer or sailor of the expedition will be allowed to remain
+ashore anywhere unless he has previously obtained the admiral's
+permission, under penalty of being declared a maroon, and prosecuted as
+such."
+
+When this last paragraph which, like all that preceded it, had been
+listened to in the most profound silence, had been recorded by the
+Company's agent, Montbarts took the charter party, and read it through
+in a loud clear voice--
+
+"Does this charter party suit you, brethren?" he then asked the
+filibusters.
+
+"Yes, yes," they shouted, waving their caps, "long live Montbarts! Long
+live Montbarts!"
+
+"And you swear, as my officers and myself swear, to obey without a
+murmur, and strictly carry out all the clauses of this charter party?"
+
+"We swear it," they repeated.
+
+"Very good," Montbarts continued; "the embarkation will commence at
+sunrise tomorrow, and all the crews must be on board the fleet before
+ten o'clock."
+
+"We will be there."
+
+"Now, brethren, let me remind you that each of you must be armed with a
+fusil, and a cutlass, have a bag of bullets, and at least three pounds
+of gunpowder: I repeat that the expedition we are about to undertake
+is most serious, so that you may not forget to choose your chums, that
+they may aid you in the case of illness or wounds, and make your wills,
+as otherwise your shares would lapse to the king. You have understood
+me, brothers? Employ as you please the few hours' liberty left you, but
+do not forget that I expect you on board at day break tomorrow."
+
+The filibusters replied by shouts, and left the shed, where there only
+remained the governor, Montbarts, his captains, and the new engage
+called the Olonnais, whom the adventurer had bought by auction a few
+hours previously, and who, far from being sad, seemed, on the contrary,
+extremely pleased at all that was going on in his presence.
+
+"As for you, gentlemen," Montbarts said, "I have no orders to give
+you, for you know as well as I what you have to do. Draw lots for your
+commands, then go on board, inspect the masts and rigging, and get
+ready to sail at the first signal. These are the only recommendations,
+I think, I need make you. Good-bye."
+
+The three captains bowed, and at once withdrew.
+
+"Ah!" Chevalier de Fontenay said, with an accent of regret, "My dear
+Montbarts, I never see an expedition preparing without having a lively
+feeling of sorrow, and almost of envy."
+
+"Do you regret your adventurous life, sir? I understand that feeling,
+although each expedition brings you an augmentation of wealth."
+
+"What do I care for that? Do not believe that I make an avaricious
+calculation. No! My thoughts are of a higher order. But the moment is
+badly chosen to chatter with you. Go, sir! And if you succeed, as I do
+not doubt--and yet, who knows? On your return we shall perhaps be able
+to come to an understanding; and then we will attempt an expedition
+together, which I hope will be talked about for a long time."
+
+"I shall be glad," the filibuster replied, politely, "to have you as a
+partner. Your brilliant courage, and far from ordinary merit, are to
+me certain guarantees of success. I shall therefore have the honour to
+hold myself at your orders, if it please Heaven that I succeed this
+time, and return safe and sound from the expedition I meditate."
+
+"Good luck, sir; and let us hope to meet again soon."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+They shook hands; and as, while conversing, they had left the shed,
+they went different roads, after a parting bow.
+
+The filibuster, followed by the engage, proceeded slowly towards his
+house.
+
+At the moment when he left the town, a man placed himself before him,
+and bowed.
+
+"What do you want with me?" the adventurer asked, giving him a
+scrutinizing glance.
+
+"To say a word to you."
+
+"Say on."
+
+"Are you Captain Montbarts?"
+
+"You must be a stranger, to ask that question."
+
+"No matter. Answer."
+
+"I am Captain Montbarts."
+
+"In that case, this letter is for you."
+
+"A letter for me!" he exclaimed, in surprise.
+
+"Here it is," the stranger said, as he presented it.
+
+"Give it to me."
+
+And he took it from him.
+
+"Now my commission is performed, farewell."
+
+"A word, in your turn."
+
+"Speak."
+
+"From whom comes this letter?"
+
+"I do not know; but you will probably learn by reading the contents."
+
+"That is true."
+
+"Then I may retire?"
+
+"Nothing prevents you."
+
+The stranger bowed, and went away.
+
+Montbarts opened the letter, hurriedly perused it, and turned pale.
+Then he re-read it; but this time slowly, and as if he wished to dwell
+on each sentence.
+
+A moment later he seemed to form a resolution, and turned to his
+engage, who was standing a few paces from him.
+
+"Come here," he said to him.
+
+"Here I am," said the other.
+
+"You are a sailor?"
+
+"A 1, I fancy."
+
+"That is well. Follow me."
+
+The filibuster turned back, hastily re-entered the town, and proceeded
+toward the sea.
+
+He seemed to be seeking something. A moment later, his gloomy face grew
+brighter.
+
+He had just seen a light canoe pulled up on the beach.
+
+"Help me to float this canoe," he said to the engage.
+
+The latter obeyed.
+
+So soon as the canoe was afloat, Montbarts leaped in, closely followed
+by his engage; and seizing the paddles, they put off from the shore.
+
+"Step the mast, so that we may hoist a sail so soon as we are free of
+the ships."
+
+The Olonnais, without answering, did as he was ordered.
+
+"Good!" Montbarts continued. "Now haul the sheets aft, and hand them to
+me, my lad."
+
+In a second the sail was hoisted, set, and the light canoe bounded like
+a petrel over the crest of the waves.
+
+They ran thus for some time without exchanging a word. They had left
+the ships far behind them, and passed out of the roads.
+
+"Do you speak Spanish?" Montbarts suddenly asked the engage.
+
+"Like a native of Old Castile," the other answered.
+
+"Ah! Ah!" said Montbarts.
+
+"It is easy to understand," the Olonnais continued. "I went whaling
+with the Basques and Bayonnese, and for several years smuggled along
+the Spanish coast."
+
+"And do you like the Spaniards?"
+
+"No!" the other answered, with a frown.
+
+"You have a motive, of course?"
+
+"I have one."
+
+"Will you tell it me?"
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Out with it, then."
+
+"I had a boat of my own, in which, as I told you, I smuggled. I worked
+six years to save up the money to buy this boat. One day, while seeking
+to land prohibited goods in a bay to windward of Portugalete, I was
+surprised by a Spanish revenue lugger. My boat was sunk, my brother
+killed, myself dangerously wounded, and I fell into the hands of the
+Gavachos. The first bandage they placed on my wounds was a bastinado,
+which left me for dead on the ground. Believing, doubtless, that
+they had killed me, they abandoned me then, and paid no further
+attention to me. I succeeded by boldness and cunning, after enduring
+indescribable tortures from hunger, cold, fatigue, &c., too lengthy to
+enumerate, in at length leaping across the frontier, and finding myself
+once again on French soil. I was free, but my brother was dead. I was
+ruined, and my old father ran a risk of dying of hunger--thanks to the
+Spaniards. Such is my history. It is not long.--How do you like it?"
+
+"It is a sad one, my good fellow; but it is as much hatred as the
+desire of growing rich which has brought you among us?"
+
+"It is hatred, before everything."
+
+"Good! Take the helm in my place, while I reflect. We are going to
+Nevis. Steer to windward of that point which juts out down there to the
+southeast."
+
+The engage seized the helm. Montbarts wrapped himself in his cloak,
+pulled his hat over his eyes, let his head sink on his chest, and
+remained motionless as a statue. The canoe still advanced, vigorously
+impelled by the breeze.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+NEVIS.
+
+
+Nevis is only separated from St. Kitts by a channel half a league in
+width at the most.
+
+This charming little island, whose fertility is remarkable, is,
+according to all probability, the result of a volcanic explosion; and
+this assertion is nearly proved by a crater containing a spring of hot
+water strongly impregnated with sulphur.
+
+Seen from a distance, it offers the appearance of a vast cone; it is,
+in fact, only a very lofty mountain, whose base is watered by the sea;
+its sides at first offering an easy incline, become, at a certain
+height, excessively abrupt; all vegetation ceases, and its snow covered
+peak is lost in the clouds.
+
+During the attack of the Spaniards on St. Kitts, several adventurers
+had sought shelter on this isle. Some of them, seduced by attractive
+sites, permanently settled there, and commenced forming plantations;
+few in number, it is true, and too far apart for the inhabitants to
+aid each other in the event of an attack from an external foe, but
+which prospered, and promised, ere long, to acquire a certain amount of
+importance.
+
+The filibuster, although his little skiff was impelled by a good
+breeze, took some time in reaching the island, because he was obliged
+to go along the entire length of the channel ere he reached the spot
+where he wished to go.
+
+The sun was already beginning to decline, when the canoe at length put
+into a small sandy creek.
+
+"Pull up the canoe, hide the paddles among the reeds," said Montbarts,
+"and follow me."
+
+The Olonnais obeyed with the punctuality and intelligent vivacity which
+he displayed in everything, and then said to his master--
+
+"Shall I take my fusil?"
+
+"There is no harm in doing so," the latter replied; "an adventurer
+should never go unarmed."
+
+"Very good; I will remember that."
+
+They proceeded inland, following a scarce-traced path, which ran with
+a gentle incline from the beech, wound round a rather steep hill,
+and after passing through a leafy mahogany forest, led to a narrow
+esplanade, in the centre of which a light canvas tent had been pitched,
+not far from a rock.
+
+A man, seated before the entrance of the tent, was reading a Breviary.
+He was dressed in the strict attire of the Franciscans, and seemed
+to have passed middle life. He was pale and thin, his features were
+ascetic and stern, his countenance was intelligent, and a marked
+expression of gentleness was spread over it. At the sound of the
+adventurers' footsteps he raised his head quickly, turned towards them,
+and a melancholy smile played round his lips.
+
+Hurriedly closing his book, he rose and walked a few steps toward the
+newcomers.
+
+"Heaven be with you, brothers!" he said in Spanish, "If you come with
+pure intentions; if not, may it inspire you with better thoughts."
+
+"My father," the filibuster said, returning his salutation, "I am the
+man whom the adventurers of St. Kitts call Montbarts, and my intentions
+are pure, for in coming here I have only yielded to the desire you
+expressed to see me, if you are really Fray Arsenio Mendoza, from whom
+I received a letter a few hours ago."
+
+"I am the person who wish to see you, brother; and that is really my
+name."
+
+"In that case speak, I am ready to hear you."
+
+"Brother," the monk answered, "the things I have to communicate to you
+are of the highest importance, and concern you alone. Perhaps it would
+be better that you alone should hear them."
+
+"I do not know what important matters you can have to tell me, father;
+but in any case, learn that this man is my engage, and, as such, it is
+his duty to be deaf and dumb when I order him."
+
+"Very good, I will speak in his presence, since you demand it; still, I
+repeat to you, that it would be better for us to be alone."
+
+"I will act in accordance with your wish. Retire out of hearing, but
+keep in sight," he said to his engage.
+
+The latter retired about one hundred yards down the path, and leant on
+his fusil.
+
+"Do you fear any treachery on the part of a poor monk like me?" the
+Franciscan asked, with a sad smile; "That would be very gratuitously
+imputing to me intentions very remote from my thoughts."
+
+"I suppose nothing, father; still, I am accustomed," the filibuster
+coarsely answered, "always to be on my guard when I am in the presence
+of a man of your nation, whether he be priest or layman."
+
+"Yes, yes," he said, in a sorrowful voice, "you profess an implacable
+hatred for my unhappy country, and for that reason are called the
+Exterminator."
+
+"Whatever be the feelings I profess for your countrymen and the name
+it has pleased them to give me, it is not, I suppose, to discuss this
+point with me that you have come here at a serious risk, and requested
+me to meet you."
+
+"Indeed, it was not for that motive, you are right, my son, though,
+personally, I might have a good deal to say on that subject."
+
+"I would observe, father, that the hour is advancing--I have but little
+time at your service, and if you do not hasten to explain yourself, I
+shall be, to my great regret, constrained to leave you."
+
+"You would regret it for your whole life, brother, were it as long as a
+patriarch's."
+
+"That is possible, though I greatly doubt it. I can only receive bad
+news from Spain."
+
+"Perhaps so; in any case, these are the news of which I am the bearer."
+
+"I am listening to you."
+
+"I am, as my gown shows you, a monk of the order of San Francisco de
+Asis."
+
+"At least, you have the look of one," the adventurer remarked, with an
+ironical smile.
+
+"Do you doubt it?"
+
+"Why not? Would you be the first Spaniard who was not afraid to profane
+a sacred dress, in order to spy our movements the more easily?"
+
+"Unfortunately what you say is true, and it has happened only too
+often; but I am merely a monk."
+
+"I believe you, till I have proof of the contrary; so go on."
+
+"Very good. I am the spiritual director of several ladies of quality in
+the island of Hispaniola: one among them, young and beautiful, who only
+arrived in the West Indies a short time ago with her husband, appears
+to be devoured by an incurable grief."
+
+"Indeed! And what can I do to prevent it, father?"
+
+"I know not: still, this is what took place between this lady and
+myself. The lady, who, as I told you, is young and fair, and whose
+charity and goodness are inexhaustible, spends the greater part of
+her days in her oratory, kneeling before a picture representing our
+Lady of Mercy, imploring her with tears and sobs. Interested, in spite
+of myself, by this so true and so profound grief, I have on several
+occasions employed the right which my sacred office gives me, to try
+and penetrate into this ulcerated heart, and obtain from my penitent a
+confession, which would permit me to give her some consolation."
+
+"And I presume that you have not succeeded, father?"
+
+"Alas! No, I have not."
+
+"Allow me to repeat to you, that, up to the present I do not see in
+this very sad story, which is to some extent, however, that of most
+women, anything very interesting to me."
+
+"Wait, brother, I am coming to that."
+
+"In that case, proceed."
+
+"One day, when this lady appeared to me to be more sad than usual, and
+I redoubled my efforts to induce her to open her heart to me--doubtless
+overcome by my solicitations, she said these words to me, which I
+repeat to you exactly:--'My father, I am an unhappy, cowardly, and
+infamous creature, and a terrible malediction weighs on me. Only one
+man has the right to know the secret which I try, in vain, to stifle in
+my heart. Upon this man depends my salvation. He can condemn or acquit
+me: but whatever be the sentence he may pronounce, I will bow without a
+murmur beneath his will, too happy to expiate at this price the crime
+of which I have been guilty.'"
+
+While the monk was pronouncing these words, the usually pale face of
+the adventurer had turned livid, a convulsive trembling agitated his
+limbs, and, in spite of his efforts to appear calm, he was constrained
+to lean against one of the tent pickets, lest he should fall on the
+ground.
+
+"Go on!" he said, in a hoarse voice. "Did this woman tell you the man's
+name?"
+
+"She did, brother. 'Alas!' she said to me, 'Unfortunately the man on
+whom my destiny depends is the most implacable enemy of our nation. He
+is one of the principal chiefs of those ferocious adventurers who have
+vowed a merciless war against Spain. I shall never meet him, except
+in the horrors of a combat, or during the sack of a town fired by his
+orders. In a word, the man I am speaking to you about is no other than
+the terrible Montbarts the Exterminator.'"
+
+"Ah!" the adventurer muttered, in a choking voice, as he pressed his
+hand forcibly against his chest, "The woman said that?"
+
+"Yes, brother; such are the words she uttered."
+
+"And then?"
+
+"Then, brother, I, a poor monk, promised her to seek you, to find you,
+no matter where you were, and repeat her words to you. I had only death
+to fear in trying to see you, and I long ago offered God the sacrifice
+of my life."
+
+"You have acted like a noble-hearted man, monk; and I thank you for
+having had confidence in me. Have you nothing to add?"
+
+"Yes, brother, I have. When the lady saw me fully resolved to brave all
+perils for the sake of finding you, she added, 'Go, then, my father:
+it is doubtless Heaven that takes pity on me, and inspires you at this
+moment. If you succeed in reaching Montbarts, tell him that I have a
+secret to confide to him, on which the happiness of his whole life
+depends; but that he must make haste, if he wish to learn it, for I
+feel that my days are numbered, and that I shall soon die.' I promised
+her to accomplish her wishes faithfully, and I have come."
+
+There was a silence for some minutes. Montbarts walked up and down with
+hanging head, and arms folded on his chest, stopping every now and then
+to stamp his foot savagely: then, resuming his hurried walk, while
+muttering unconnected words in a low voice.
+
+All at once he stopped before the monk, and looked him straight in the
+face.
+
+"You have not told me all," he said to him.
+
+"Pardon me, brother; everything, word by word."
+
+"Still there is an important detail, which you have doubtless
+forgotten, as you have passed it over in silence?"
+
+"I do not understand to what you are alluding, brother," the monk
+replied, gravely.
+
+"You have forgotten to reveal to me the name and position of this
+woman, father."
+
+"That is true: but it is not forgetfulness on my part. In acting thus,
+I have obeyed the orders I received. The lady implored me to tell you
+nothing touching her name or position. She reserves that for herself,
+when you are alone together: and I swore to keep her secret."
+
+"Ah! Ah! Senor monk," the adventurer exclaimed, with a wrath the more
+terrible because it was concentrated; "You have taken that oath?"
+
+"Yes, brother, and will keep it at all risks," he answered firmly.
+
+The adventurer burst into a hoarse laugh.
+
+"You are doubtless ignorant," he said, in a hissing voice, "that we
+_ladrones_, as your countrymen call us, possess marvellous secrets to
+untie the most rebel tongues, and that you are in my power."
+
+"I am in the hands of God, brother--try it. I am only a poor
+defenceless man, incapable of resisting you. Torture me, then, if such
+be your good pleasure; but know that I will die, without revealing my
+secret."
+
+Montbarts bent a flashing glance on the monk who stood so calm before
+him; and then, a moment after, struck his forehead angrily.
+
+"I am mad!" he exclaimed: "What do I care for this name--do I not
+know it already? Listen, father. Forgive me what I said to you, for
+passion blinded me. You came to this island freely, and shall leave it
+freely--in my turn I swear it to you; and I am not more accustomed to
+break any oaths I take--no matter their nature--than you are."
+
+"I know it, brother. I have nothing to forgive you. I see that grief
+led you astray, and I pity you, for Heaven has chosen me, I feel a
+presentiment of it, to bring a great misfortune upon you."
+
+"Yes, you speak truly. I did not seek this woman--I tried to forget
+her, and it is she who voluntarily places herself in my path. It is
+well, Heaven will judge between her and me. She demands that I will
+go and see her, and I will do so, but she must only blame herself for
+the terrible consequences of our interview. Still, I consent to leave
+her yet one chance of escape. When you return to her, urge her not to
+try to see me again. You see, that I have a little pity for her in my
+heart, in spite of all she made me suffer; but if, in spite of your
+entreaties, she persists in meeting me, in that case her will be done.
+I will go to the place of meeting she may select."
+
+"I know where it is, brother, and am ordered to point it out to you
+today."
+
+"Ah," the filibuster said, suspiciously, "she has forgotten nothing.
+Well, where is it?"
+
+"The lady, you can understand, cannot quit the island, even if she
+wished to do so."
+
+"That is true. So we are to meet in Hispaniola itself?"
+
+"Yes, brother."
+
+"And what spot has she selected?"
+
+"The great Savannah, that separates Mirebalais from San Juan de Goava."
+
+"Ah! The spot is famously chosen for an ambuscade," the filibuster
+said, with a sneering laugh, "for if I remember rightly, it is on
+Spanish territory."
+
+"It forms the extreme limit, brother. Still, I will try to induce the
+lady to choose another spot, if you are afraid about your safety at
+this one."
+
+Montbarts shrugged his shoulders with a contemptuous laugh.
+
+"I afraid!" he said. "Nonsense, monk, you must be mad! What do I care
+for the Spaniards, if five hundred of them were ambushed to surprise
+me, I should be able to get away from them! It is settled, then, that
+if the lady persist in her intention of having an explanation with me,
+I will go to the Savannah, which extends between Mirebalais and San
+Juan de Goava, at the confluence of the great river and the Artibonite."
+
+"I will do what you desire, brother; but if the lady insist, in spite
+of my remonstrances and entreaties, on the interview taking place, how
+am I to warn you?"
+
+"As it is possible for you to come here, you will be the better able;
+without attracting suspicion, to enter the French part of St. Domingo."
+
+"I will try, at any rate, brother, since it must absolutely be so."
+
+"You will light a large fire on the coast in the vicinity of Port
+Margot, and I shall know what it means."
+
+"I will obey you, brother: but when am I to light the fire?"
+
+"How long do you propose remaining here?"
+
+"I intend to leave immediately after our interview."
+
+"This evening, then?"
+
+"Yes, brother."
+
+"Ah, ah, then there is a Spanish vessel in the neighbourhood?"
+
+"Probably so, brother; but if you discover it and capture it, how shall
+I succeed in returning to Hispaniola?"
+
+"That is true; this consideration saves the Gavachos: but believe,
+after due reflection, I think it my duty to give you some advice."
+
+"Whatever it may be, brother, coming from you, I shall receive it with
+pleasure."
+
+"Well, then, carry out your intention. Start at once; tomorrow it will
+not be pleasant for you in these waters, and I would not answer for
+your safety or that of your vessel. Do you comprehend me?"
+
+"Perfectly, brother; and for the signal?"
+
+"Light it fifteen days from today, and I will arrange so as to arrive
+at St. Domingo about that time."
+
+"Very good, brother."
+
+"And now, monk, farewell till we meet again, as it is probable we shall
+do."
+
+"It is probable, indeed, brother. Farewell, and may the merciful Lord
+be with you!"
+
+"So be it," the filibuster said, with an ironical laugh.
+
+He gave a parting wave of his hand to the monk, threw his fusil on his
+shoulder, and went off, but a few minutes after stopped and went back.
+
+The Franciscan had remained motionless at the same spot.
+
+"One last word, father," he said.
+
+"Speak, brother," he answered, gently.
+
+"Take my advice, employ all your power over the lady to induce her to
+give up this meeting, whose consequences may be terrible."
+
+"I will try impossibilities to succeed, brother," the monk replied; "I
+will pray to Heaven to permit me to persuade my penitent."
+
+"Yes," Montbarts added, in a gloomy voice, "it would be better for her
+and for me, perhaps, if we never met again."
+
+And roughly turning his back on the monk, he hurried along the track,
+where he speedily disappeared.
+
+When Fray Arsenio felt certain that this time the adventurer had really
+gone, he gently raised the curtain of the tent and stepped inside.
+
+A woman was kneeling there on the bare ground, with her head buried in
+her hands, and praying with stifled sobs.
+
+"Have I punctually accomplished your orders, my daughter?" the monk
+said.
+
+The woman drew herself up and turned her lovely pale and tear-swollen
+face toward the monk.
+
+"Yes, padre," she murmured, in a low and trembling voice. "Bless you
+for not abandoning me in my distress."
+
+"Is this really the man with whom you desire an interview?"
+
+"Yes, it is he, father."
+
+"And you still insist on seeing him?"
+
+She hesitated for a moment, a shudder ran over her whole person, and
+then she murmured in a hardly intelligible voice--
+
+"I must, father."
+
+"You will reflect between this and then, I hope," he continued.
+
+"No, no," she said, with a sorrowful shake of the head; "if that
+man were to plunge his dagger into my heart, I must have a final
+explanation with him."
+
+"Your will be done," he said
+
+At this moment, a slight sound was heard outside.
+
+The monk went out, but returned almost immediately.
+
+"Get ready, madam," he said; "our crew have come to fetch you. Remember
+the parting advice that _ladron_ gave me, and let us be gone as soon as
+possible."
+
+Without replying, the lady rose, wrapped herself carefully in her
+mantilla, and went out.
+
+An hour later, she left Nevis, accompanied by Fray Arsenio Mendoza.
+
+Montbarts had reached St. Kitts long before.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+THE EXPEDITION.
+
+
+During the entire passage from Nevis to St. Kitts Montbarts was in a
+strange state of excitement.
+
+The interview he had held with the monk had rearoused in his heart a
+profound sorrow which time had deadened but not cauterized, and at the
+first word that fell in this hour's conversation the wound burst open
+again, bleeding and livid as on the day of its receipt.
+
+How had this woman, whom he would not name, of whose presence in
+America he was ignorant, whom, in short, he fancied he had escaped by
+hiding himself among the filibusters, succeeded in so short a time, not
+only in learning his presence in the islands, but also in finding him
+again? For what object did she insist on finding him? What interest
+could she have in seeing him?
+
+All these questions, which he asked himself in turn, necessarily
+remained unanswered, and for that very reason augmented his anxiety.
+
+For a moment he thought of laying an ambush in the straits of Nevis
+and St. Eustache, the two islands between which St. Kitts is situated,
+capturing the Spanish vessel, and obtaining by torture the information
+the monk had refused to give him.
+
+But he gave up this plan almost immediately; he had pledged his word of
+honour, and would not break it for anything in the world.
+
+In the meanwhile, night had set in, and the canoe was still advancing.
+
+Montbarts steered for the lugger, which was anchored a short distance
+from land.
+
+When the light boat was under the vessel's counter, the filibuster made
+his engage a sign to lay on his oars, and shouted in a loud voice--
+
+"Lugger, ahoy!"
+
+At once, a man whose black outline was designed on the dark blue
+horizon, leant over.
+
+"Boat ahoy!" he shouted.
+
+"Is that you, Bowline?" Montbarts continued.
+
+"All right."
+
+"Is Michael aboard?"
+
+"Yes, admiral."
+
+"Ah, you have recognised me, my lad?"
+
+"Of course," said the Breton.
+
+"I suppose you are watching over my prisoner?"
+
+"I answer for him."
+
+"But do not annoy him unnecessarily."
+
+"All right, admiral, we will be gentle with him."
+
+"Is Omopoua aboard at this moment?"
+
+"Here I am, master," a second voice immediately replied.
+
+"Ah, ah," the filibuster said with satisfaction, "all the better. I
+want you--come ashore."
+
+"Are you in a hurry, master?"
+
+"A great hurry."
+
+"In that case, wait a moment."
+
+And ere the filibuster could guess the Carib's intention, the noise of
+a body falling in the water could be heard, and two or three minutes
+later the Indian rested his hands on the gunwale of the canoe.
+
+"Here I am," he said.
+
+Montbarts could not refrain from smiling on seeing with what
+promptitude the savage obeyed his orders. He held out his hand, and
+helped him to get into the boat.
+
+"Why such a hurry?" he said to him in a tone of friendly reproach.
+
+The Indian shook himself like a drowned poodle.
+
+"Nonsense," he said, "I am all right."
+
+"Have you got the Indian?" Bowline asked.
+
+"Yes: now good night; you will see me tomorrow."
+
+"Tomorrow?"
+
+"Pull," the filibuster said to the engage.
+
+The latter dipped his paddles, and the canoe resumed its course.
+
+Ten minutes later, it ran aground at the very spot where Montbarts had
+seized it for the purpose of going to Nevis. The three men landed on
+the beach, pulled up the canoe, and went off in the direction of the
+hatto.
+
+They passed through the town and a swarm of filibusters, who were
+celebrating by songs, shouts, and libations their last hours of liberty.
+
+They went on in silence. When the three men reached the hatto,
+Montbarts lit a candle, and searched the house with the greatest care,
+to make sure that no stranger was present; then he returned to his two
+comrades, who were waiting for him in the Esplanade.
+
+"Come in," he merely said to them.
+
+They followed him.
+
+Montbarts sat down in a chair, and then turned to the Carib.
+
+"I have to talk with you, Omopoua," he said.
+
+"Good," the Indian remarked, joyously; "in that case you have need of
+me."
+
+"If that were true you would be satisfied, then?"
+
+"Yes, I should be."
+
+"For what reason?"
+
+"Because, since I have found a white man who is good and generous, I
+am anxious to prove to you that all the Caribs are not ferocious and
+untameable, but know how to be grateful."
+
+"I promised you, I think, to take you back to your country?"
+
+"Yes, you made me that promise."
+
+"Unfortunately, as I am appointed chief of an important expedition,
+which will probably last some time, it is impossible for me at this
+moment to take you back to Haiti."
+
+The Indian's face grew dark on hearing this.
+
+"Do not grieve, but listen to me attentively," the filibuster
+continued, who had noticed the change that took place in the Indian's
+face.
+
+"I am listening to you."
+
+"What I cannot do you are able to effect by yourself, if I supply you
+with the means."
+
+"I do not exactly understand what the white Chief means; I am only a
+poor Indian, with limited ideas. I require to have things explained to
+me very clearly before I understand them; but it is true, that when I
+do understand I never forget."
+
+"You are a Carib, hence you know how to manage a canoe?"
+
+"Yes," the Indian answered, with a proud smile.
+
+"Suppose I gave you a canoe, do you believe that you could fetch Haiti?"
+
+"The great land is very far away," he said, in a sorrowful voice, "the
+voyage very long for a single man, however brave he may be."
+
+"Agreed; but suppose I placed in the canoe not only provisions, but
+cutlasses, axes, daggers, and four fusils, with powder and ball?"
+
+"The pale Chief would do that!" he said, with an incredulous air. "Thus
+armed, who could resist Omopoua?"
+
+"Suppose I did more?" the adventurer continued, with a smile.
+
+"The Chief is jesting; he is very gay. He says to himself, the Indians
+are credulous; I will have a laugh at the expense of Omopoua."
+
+"I am not jesting, Chief--on the contrary, I am very serious; I will
+give you the things I have enumerated to you, and, in order that you
+may reach your country in safety, I will lend you a comrade, a brave
+man, who will be your brother, and defend you as you would defend
+yourself."
+
+"And that companion?"
+
+"Is here," said Montbarts, pointing to his engage, who was standing
+calm and motionless by his side.
+
+"Then I am not to make the expedition with you, Montbarts?" the latter
+said, in a sad voice, and with a reproachful accent.
+
+"Reassure yourself," said Montbarts, tapping him gently on the
+shoulder; "the mission I send you on is most confidential, and even
+more perilous than the expedition I am undertaking. I wanted a devoted
+man--another self--and I have chosen you."
+
+"You have done well, in that case; I will prove to you that you are not
+mistaken about me."
+
+"I am convinced of that already, my lad. Do you accept this companion,
+Omopoua? He will help you to pass without being insulted through the
+filibusters you may meet on your route."
+
+"Good! The pale Chief really loves Omopoua. What is the Indian to do on
+arriving in his country?"
+
+"Omopoua's brothers have sought shelter, I think, in the neighbourhood
+of the Artibonite?"
+
+"Yes, in the great savannahs to which the French have given the name of
+Mirebalais."
+
+"Good! Omopoua will go and join his friends; he will tell them in what
+way the filibusters treat the Caribs: he will present his companion to
+them, and wait."
+
+"I will wait: the pale Chief, then, is coming to Haiti?"
+
+"Probably," said Montbarts, with a smile of indefinable meaning; "and
+the proof is, that my engage will remain with your tribe till my
+arrival."
+
+"Good! I will await the coming of the pale Chief. When am I start?"
+
+"This very night. Go down to the beach; go in my name to the owner of
+the canoe which brought us ashore--here is money," and he gave him
+several piastres; "tell him that I buy his boat exactly as it stands.
+You will lay in provisions at the same time, and then wait for your
+comrade, to whom I have a few words to say--but he will rejoin you
+soon."
+
+"I will go, then; gratitude is in my heart, and not on my lips. On the
+day when you ask for my life I will give it you, because it is yours,
+as well as that of all those who love me. Farewell!"
+
+And he made a movement to leave the room.
+
+"Where are you going?" Montbarts asked him.
+
+"I am off; did you not give me leave to go?"
+
+"Yes, but you are forgetting something."
+
+"What is it?"
+
+"The arms I promised you. Take from the rack a fusil for yourself, and
+four others, which you can dispose of as you please, six cutlasses,
+six daggers, and six hatchets; when you leave port, on passing the
+lugger, you will ask Michael the Basque, in my name, for two barrels of
+gunpowder and two bags of bullets--he will give them to you. Now go,
+and I wish you all good fortune."
+
+The Carib, overcome by this generosity, so simple and so full of
+grandeur, knelt to the adventurer, and seizing his feet, which he
+placed on his head, he exclaimed, in a deeply affected voice--
+
+"I pay you homage as to the best of men. I and mine are henceforth and
+eternally your devoted slaves." He got up, placed on his shoulder the
+arms which the engage handed him, and quitted the hatto.
+
+For some minutes his footsteps could be heard resounding on the path;
+but this sound gradually died away, and a complete silence returned.
+
+"Now for us two, Olonnais!" Montbarts then said, addressing the engage.
+
+The latter drew nearer.
+
+"I am listening, master," he said.
+
+"I saw you today for the first time, and yet you pleased me at the very
+first glance," the adventurer continued. "I fancy myself a tolerable
+physiognomist. Your frank and open face, your bold-looking eyes, and
+the expression of audacity and intelligence spread over your features,
+disposed me in your favour. That is the reason why I bought you. I
+trust that I am not deceived about you; but I wish to make trial of
+you. You know that I am at liberty to shorten your engagement, or even,
+if I like, restore you your freedom tomorrow, so think of that, and act
+accordingly."
+
+"Whether engaged or free I shall always be devoted to you, Montbarts,"
+the Olonnais said, "hence do not speak to me of recompense, for it is
+useless with me: make your trial, and I hope to emerge from it with
+honour."
+
+"That is speaking like a man and a frank adventurer: listen to me,
+then, and do not let a word of what you are about to hear escape your
+lips."
+
+"I shall be dumb."
+
+"In ten days at the most I shall anchor in Port Margot in St. Domingo;
+the expedition I command is intended to take Tortoise Isle by surprise;
+but while we are occupied on our side in surprising the Spaniards, they
+must not be able to attack us in the rear, and ruin our establishments
+at Grande Terre."
+
+"I understand; Omopoua's Caribs are scattered along the Spanish
+frontier, and must be converted into allies of the expedition."
+
+"The very thing--you have understood me perfectly. Such is your
+missive; but you must act with extreme cleverness and considerable
+prudence, in order not to give the alarm to the Gavachos on one hand,
+or arouse the suspicious of the Caribs on the other; the Indians are
+susceptible and mistrustful, especially with white men, against
+whom they have so many causes of complaint. The part you have to
+play is rather difficult, but I think you will succeed--thanks to
+the influence of Omopoua; besides, two days after my arrival at Port
+Margot, I will proceed to the savannahs of the Artibonite, in order
+to have an understanding, and to make the arrangements I may consider
+necessary. You see that I act toward you with perfect frankness, and
+rather as with a brother than an engage."
+
+"I thank you for it; you shall have no cause to repent it."
+
+"I am glad to believe it--ah! A final recommendation, of secondary
+importance, but, for all that, serious."
+
+"What is it?"
+
+"The Spaniards frequently hunt, or make excursions in the savannahs of
+the Artibonite; watch them, though without letting them perceive you;
+let them not have the slightest suspicion of what we are meditating
+against them, for the least imprudence might have excessively grave
+consequences for the success of our plans."
+
+"I will act with prudence, be assured."
+
+"Now, my lad, I have only to wish you a pleasant trip, and successful
+result."
+
+"Will you allow me, in my turn, to ask you a question before departing?"
+
+"Speak, I allow it."
+
+"For what reason have you, who possess so many brave and devoted
+friends, instead of applying to one of them, chosen an obscure
+engage, whom you hardly know, to confide to him so difficult and so
+confidential a mission?"
+
+"Are you anxious to know?" the adventurer asked, laughingly.
+
+"Yes, if you do not consider the question indiscreet."
+
+"Not the least in the world, and you shall be satisfied in a couple
+of words. Apart from the good opinion I have of you, and which is
+only personal, I have chosen you, because you are only a poor engage,
+who arrived from France but two days ago--no one knows you, or is
+aware that I have purchased you: for this reason no one will dream of
+suspecting you, and consequently you will be a more valuable agent to
+me, as no one will imagine that you are my plenipotentiary, and acting
+under my orders. Now do you understand, my lad?"
+
+"Perfectly, and I thank you for the explanation you have given me.
+Good-bye; within an hour the Carib and I will have left St. Kitts."
+
+"Allow him to guide you during the voyage, that man is very clever,
+though an Indian, and he will conduct you so that you will both reach
+port in safety."
+
+"I shall not fail to do so; besides, the deference I shall show him
+will dispose him in my favour, and further advance the success of our
+projects."
+
+"Come, come," the adventurer said, with a laugh, "I see that you are a
+sharp lad, and I now have good hopes of the issue of your mission."
+
+The Olonnais armed himself as the Carib had done, then took leave of
+his master, and went away.
+
+"Come," Montbarts muttered, when he was alone, "I believe that my plans
+are beginning to assume consistency, and that I shall soon be able to
+deal a grand stroke."
+
+The next morning at sunrise an unusual agitation prevailed in the
+township, which, however, was never very tranquil.
+
+The filibusters, armed to the teeth, were taking leave of their
+friends, and preparing to proceed on board the vessels for which they
+had enlisted on the previous day.
+
+The roads were cut up in all directions by a prodigious number of
+canoes which passed to and fro, carrying men and provisions to the
+departing ships.
+
+The Chevalier de Fontenay, surrounded by a numerous staff of renowned
+filibusters, and having at his side Montbarts, David Drake, and Michael
+the Basque, was standing at the end of the wooden mole that served as a
+landing place, and witnessing thence the departure of the adventurers.
+
+These men with bronzed complexion, energetic and ferocious features,
+and vigorous limbs, scarce clad in canvas drawers and old hats or caps,
+but armed with long fusils, manufactured at Dieppe expressly for them,
+having a heavy sharpened cutlass hanging from their belt, and carrying
+their stock of powder and bullets, had a strange and singularly
+formidable appearance, rendered even more striking by the expression of
+carelessness and indomitable audacity spread over their faces.
+
+On seeing them it was easy to understand the terror with which they
+must inspire the Spaniards, and the incredible exploits they achieved
+almost as if in play, reckoning their lives as nothing, and only seeing
+the object, that is to say, plunder.
+
+As they defiled before the governor and the officers elected to command
+them, they saluted them respectfully, because discipline demanded it,
+but the salute had nothing low or servile about it, it was that of men
+fully conscious of their value, and aware that though sailors today,
+they might, as they liked, be captains tomorrow.
+
+Towards midday the crews were complete, and only the Admiral and three
+captains were still ashore.
+
+"Gentlemen," Montbarts said to his officers, "so soon as we are out
+to sea, each of you will sail as you like; we have but a small stock
+of provisions on board, but the islands we pass will supply us, do
+not hesitate to pillage the corales of the Gavachos, for that will be
+so much taken from the enemy. Hence it is settled that we will each
+proceed separately to the general meeting place, for prudence urges
+us not to let the enemy suspect our strength; our meeting place is
+the northern island of the Grand Key; the first to arrive will await
+the two others, there I will give you my final instructions about the
+object of the expedition, of which you already know a part."
+
+"So then," said M. de Fontenay, "you insist on keeping your secret?"
+
+"If you absolutely demand, sir," Montbart replied, "I will--"
+
+"No, no," he interrupted him with a laugh; "keep it, for I do not know
+what to do with it; besides, I have pretty nearly guessed your secret."
+
+"Ah," Montbarts said with an air of incredulity.
+
+"Confound it, I am greatly mistaken or you mean to make some attempt on
+St. Domingo."
+
+The adventurer only answered by a crafty smile, and took leave of the
+governor, who rubbed his hands joyously, for he was persuaded that he
+had guessed the secret which it was attempted to conceal from him. An
+hour later the three vessels raised their anchors, set sail, and went
+off after giving a parting salute to the land, which was immediately
+answered by the battery at the point.
+
+They soon became confounded with the white mist on the horizon, and ere
+long disappeared.
+
+"Well," M. de Fontenay said to his officers as he returned to the
+government house, "you will see that I am not mistaken, and that this
+demon of a Montbarts really has a design on St. Domingo. Lord help the
+Spaniards!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+THE HATTO.
+
+
+We will leave the filibustering flotilla steering through the
+inextricable labyrinth of the Antilles, and transport ourselves to St.
+Domingo, as the French call it, Hispaniola as Columbus christened it,
+or Haiti as the Caribs, its first and only true owners, called it.
+
+And when we speak of the Caribs, we mean the black as well as the red,
+for it is a singular fact, of which many persons are ignorant, that
+some Caribs were black, and so thoroughly resembled the African race,
+that when the French planters settled at St. Vincent, and brought
+with them Negro slaves, the black Caribs, indignant at resembling men
+degraded by slavery, and fearful too lest at a later date their color
+might serve as a pretext to make them endure the same fate, fled into
+the wildest recesses of the forest, and in order to create a visible
+distinction between their race and the slaves brought to the island,
+they compressed the foreheads of their new born infants, so that they
+became completely flattened, which in the ensuing generation produced,
+as it were, a new race, and afterwards became the symbol of their
+independence.
+
+Before resuming our narrative, we ask the reader's permission to
+indulge in a little geography: as many of the incidents of the history
+of filibustering will take place at St. Domingo; it is indispensable
+that this island should be well known.
+
+St. Domingo, discovered on December 6, 1492, by Christopher Columbus,
+is, by the general verdict, the most lovely of all the Antilles. From
+the centre of the island rises a group of mountains, springing one from
+the other, from which issue three chains, running in three different
+directions. The longest stretches to the west, and passes through
+the middle of the island, dividing it into two nearly equal parts.
+The second chain runs north, and ends at Cape Fou. The third, less
+extensive than the preceding, at first follows the same direction, but
+ere long taking a curve to the south, terminates in Cape St. Mark.
+
+In the interior of the island there are several other mountain ranges,
+though much less considerable. The result of this multiplicity of
+mountains is that communication, especially at the time when our story
+is laid, was excessively difficult between the north and south of the
+isle.
+
+At the foot of all these mountains are immense plains covered with a
+luxurious vegetation; the mountains are intersected by ravines, which
+keep up a constant and beneficent humidity; they contain different
+metals, in addition to rock crystal, coal, sulphur, and quarries of
+porphyry, slate and marble, and are covered with forests of bananas,
+palms and mimosas of every species.
+
+Although the rivers are numerous, the largest are unfortunately
+scarcely navigable, and cannot be ascended by canoes for more than a
+few leagues; the principal ones are the Neyva, the Macoris, the Usaque,
+or river of Montecristo, the Ozama, the Juna and the Artibonite, the
+most extensive of all.
+
+Seen from the offing, the appearances of this island is enchanting; it
+resembles an immense bouquet of flowers rising from the bosom of the
+sea.
+
+We are not going to write the history of the colony of St. Domingo, but
+will merely say that this island so rich and fertile had, through the
+carelessness, cruelty and avarice of the Spaniards, fallen, one hundred
+and fifty years after its discovery, into such a state of wretchedness
+and misery, that the Spanish Government was compelled to send to this
+colony, which became not only unproductive but burdensome, funds to pay
+the troops and officials.
+
+While St. Domingo was thus slowly decaying, new colonists, brought by
+accident, established themselves on the north west of the island, and
+took possession of it, in spite of the resistance and opposition of the
+Spaniards.
+
+These new colonists were French adventurers, most of them expelled from
+St. Christopher on the descent of Admiral de Toledo on that colony, and
+who were wandering about the Antilles in search of a refuge.
+
+At the period of the discovery, the first Spaniards had left on the
+island some forty head of cattle; these animals, restored to liberty,
+rapidly multiplied and traversed the savannahs of the interior in
+immense herds; the French adventurers, on their arrival, did not dream
+of cultivating the soil, but, seduced by the attractions of a perilous
+chase, they occupied themselves exclusively in pursuing the bulls and
+the wild boars, which were also very numerous and extremely formidable.
+
+The sole occupation of these adventurers then was the chase; they
+preserved the hides of cattle and dried the meat by smoke in the Indian
+fashion. Hence comes the name of buccaneers, for the Caribs gave the
+name of _boucans_ to the spot where they smoked the flesh of the
+prisoners taken in war, and whom they ate after fattening them.
+
+We shall soon have occasion to return to this subject and enter into
+fuller details about these singular men.
+
+Still, in spite of their love of independence, these adventurers had
+understood the necessity of creating outlets for the sale of their
+hides. Hence they established several counters at Port Margot and Port
+de la Paix, which they regarded as the capital of their establishments;
+but their position was most precarious owing to the proximity of the
+Spaniards, who had hitherto been sole masters of the island, and would
+not consent to have them as such near neighbours; hence they constantly
+waged a savage war, which was the more cruel because quarter was not
+granted on either side.
+
+Such was the situation of St. Domingo at the time when we resume our
+narrative, about a fortnight after the departure of the filibustering
+fleet from St. Kitts under the command of Montbarts the Exterminator.
+
+The sun, already low on the horizon, was enormously lengthening the
+shadows of the trees, the evening breeze was rising, gently agitating
+the leaves and tall grass, when a man mounted on a powerful horse,
+and wearing the costume of the Spanish Campesinos, followed a scarce
+traced path which wound through the centre of a vast plain covered
+with magnificent plantations of sugar cane and coffee, and led to an
+elegant hatto, whose pretty mirador commanded the country for a long
+distance.
+
+This man appeared to be five and twenty years of age at the most;
+his features were handsome, but imprinted with an expression of
+insupportable pride and disdain; his very simple dress was only
+relieved by a long rapier, whose hilt of carved silver hung on his left
+hip and showed him to be a gentleman, as the nobility alone had the
+right to wear a sword.
+
+Four black slaves, half naked, and whose bodies glistened with
+perspiration, ran behind his horse, one carrying a richly damascened
+fusil, the second a game bag, and the two others a dead boar, whose
+tied feet were resting on a bamboo supported by the shoulders of the
+poor fellows.
+
+But the rider seemed to trouble himself but little about his
+companions, or rather his slaves, toward whom he did not deign to turn
+his head, even when speaking to them, which he did sometimes to ask
+them for directions in a harsh and contemptuous voice.
+
+He held in his band an embroidered handkerchief, with which he wiped
+away every moment the perspiration that inundated his forehead, and
+looked savagely around him, while urging his horse with the spur, to
+the great sorrow of the slaves who were forced to double their efforts
+to follow him.
+
+"Well," he at length asked in an ill-tempered tone, "shall we never
+arrive at this accursed hatto?"
+
+"In half an hour at the furthest, _mi amo_," a Negro answered
+respectfully, "there is the mirador over there."
+
+"What a deuce of a notion it was of my sister, to come and bury herself
+in this frightful hole instead of remaining quietly at her palace in
+St. Domingo. Women are mad, on my honour," he grumbled between his
+teeth.
+
+And he spiced this most ungallant observation by furiously digging the
+spurs into his horse, which started at a gallop.
+
+Still, he was rapidly approaching the hatto, all the details of which
+it was already easy to distinguish.
+
+It was a pretty and rather large mansion with a terraced roof,
+surmounted by a mirador and with a peristyle in front formed by four
+columns supporting a verandah.
+
+A thick hedge surrounded the house, which could only be reached by
+crossing a large garden; behind were the corrals to shut in the beasts,
+and the cottages of the Negroes, miserable, low and half ruined huts,
+built of clumsily intertwined branches and covered with palm leaves.
+
+This hatto, tranquil and solitary, in the midst of this plain of
+luxuriant vegetation, and half concealed by the trees that formed a
+screen of foliage, had a really enchanting aspect, which, however, did
+not seem to produce on the traveller's mind any other effect but that
+of profound weariness and lively annoyance.
+
+The arrival of the stranger had doubtless been signalled by the sentry
+stationed on the mirador to watch the surrounding country, for a
+horseman emerged at a gallop from the hatto, and came toward the small
+party composed of the gentleman we have described and the four slaves
+who still ran behind him, displaying their white, sharp teeth, and
+blowing like grampuses.
+
+The newcomer was a man of short stature, but his wide shoulders and
+solid limbs denoted far from common muscular strength, he was about
+forty years of age, his features were harsh and marked, and the
+expression of his countenance was sombre and crafty. A broad-brimmed
+straw hat nearly concealed his face, a cloak called a poncho, made
+of one piece, and with a hole in the middle to pass his head through,
+covered his shoulders; the hilt of a long knife peeped out of his right
+boot, a sabre hung on his left side, and a long fusil was lying across
+the front of his saddle. When he arrived within a few paces of the
+gentleman, he stopped his horse short on its hind legs, uncovered, and
+bowed respectfully.
+
+"_Santas tardes_, Senor Don Sancho," he said in an obsequious voice.
+
+"Ah, ah! It is you, Birbomono," the young man said, as he carelessly
+touched his hat; "what the deuce are you doing here? I fancied you were
+hung long ago."
+
+"Your Excellency is jesting," the other replied, with an ill-tempered
+grimace, "I am the Senora's Major-domo."
+
+"I compliment her on it, and you, too."
+
+"The Senora was very anxious about your Excellency, and I was
+preparing, by her orders, to make a battue in the neighbourhood. She
+will be delighted to see you arrive without misadventure."
+
+"What misadventure?" the young man said, as he loosened his rein; "What
+do you mean, scamp? And what had I to fear on the roads?"
+
+"Your Excellency cannot be ignorant that the ladrones infest the
+savannahs."
+
+The young man burst into a laugh.
+
+"The ladrones! What a pleasant story you are telling me, too; come, run
+and announce my arrival to my sister, without further chattering."
+
+The Major-domo did not let the order be repeated, but bowed, and set
+off at a gallop.
+
+Ten minutes later, Don Sancho dismounted in front of the peristyle of
+the hatto, where a young lady of rare beauty, but cadaverous pallor,
+and who appeared hardly able to keep up, as she was so weak and ill,
+was awaiting his arrival.
+
+This lady was the sister of Senor Don Sancho, and the owner of the
+hatto.
+
+The two young people embraced each other for a long while without
+exchanging a word, and then Don Sancho offered his arm to his sister,
+and entered the house with her, leaving the Major-domo to look after
+his horse and baggage.
+
+The young gentleman led his sister to an easy chair, fetched one for
+himself, rolled it up to her side, and sat down.
+
+"At last," she said a moment later, in an affectionate voice, as
+she took one of the young man's hands in her own, "I see you again,
+brother; you are here, near me--how glad I am to see you."
+
+"My dear Clara," Don Sancho replied, as he kissed her forehead, "we
+have been separated for nearly a year."
+
+"Alas!" she murmured.
+
+"And during that year many things have doubtless happened, of which you
+will inform me?"
+
+"Alas! My life during this year may be summed up in two words--I have
+suffered."
+
+"Poor sister, how changed you are in so little time, I could hardly
+recognize you; I came to St. Domingo with such joy, and no sooner had I
+landed than I went to your palace; your husband, who has not altered,
+and whom I found as heavy and silent as usual, with an increased dose
+of importance, doubtless the result of his high position, told me that
+you were not very well, and that the physicians had ordered you country
+air."
+
+"It is true," she said, with a sad smile.
+
+"Yes; but I fancied you merely indisposed, and I find you dying."
+
+"Let us not talk of that, Sancho, I implore you; what matter if I am
+ill? Did you receive my letter?"
+
+"Had I not, should I be here? Two hours after its receipt I set out;
+for three days," he continued with a smile, "I have been going uphill
+and down dale, along frightful roads, to reach you the sooner."
+
+"Thanks, oh thanks, Sancho; your presence renders me very happy--you
+will remain for a while with me, will you not?"
+
+"As long as you like, dear sister, for I am a free man."
+
+"Free!" she repeated, looking at him with an air of amazement.
+
+"Well, yes; his Excellency, the Duc de Penaflor, my illustrious father
+and yours, the Viceroy of New Spain, has deigned to grant me an
+unlimited leave."
+
+At her father's name a slight shudder ran over the young lady's person,
+and her eyes became dimmed with tears.
+
+"Ah," she said, "my father is well?"
+
+"Better than ever."
+
+"And has he spoken about me?"
+
+The young man bit his lips.
+
+"He spoke to me about you very little," he said; "but I in revenge,
+said a good deal about you, which re-established the balance: I even
+believe that he granted me the leave I asked in great measure to free
+himself from my chattering."
+
+Dona Clara hung her head without replying, and her brother fixed upon
+her a glance full of tender pity.
+
+"Let us talk about yourself," he said.
+
+"No, no, Sancho; we had better talk about _him_." she replied
+hesitatingly.
+
+"Of _him!_" he said in a hollow voice, and with a groan; "Alas, poor
+sister, what can I tell you? All my efforts have been vain; I have
+discovered nothing."
+
+"Yes, yes;" she murmured, "his measures were well taken to make him
+disappear. Oh, Heaven! Heaven!" she exclaimed, clasping her hands
+wildly, "Will you not take pity on me?"
+
+"Calm yourself, I implore you, sister; I will see, I will seek--I will
+redouble my efforts, and perhaps I shall at length succeed--"
+
+"No," she interrupted him, "never, never shall we be able to effect
+anything; he is condemned, condemned by my father; that implacable man
+will never restore him to me! Oh! I know my father better than you do;
+you are a man, Sancho, you can try to struggle against him, but he has
+crushed me, crushed me at a single blow; he broke my heart by a deadly
+pressure in making me the innocent accomplice of an infernal vengeance!
+Then he coldly reproached me with a dishonour which is his work, and
+at the same blow eternally destroyed the happiness of three beings who
+would have loved him, and whose future he held in his hands."
+
+"And you, my dear Clara, do you know nothing--have you discovered
+nothing?"
+
+"Yes," she replied, looking at him fixedly, "I have made a horrible
+discovery."
+
+"You terrify me, Clara; what do you mean? Explain yourself."
+
+"Not at present, my dear Sancho, not at present, for the time has not
+arrived; so be patient. You know that I never had any secrets from you,
+for you alone have always loved me. I wrote to you to come that I
+might reveal this secret to you: in three days at the latest you shall
+know all, and then--"
+
+"Then?" he said, looking at her intently.
+
+"Then you shall measure, as I do, the immense depth of the gulf into
+which I have fallen; but enough of this subject for the present, I am
+suffering terribly, so let us talk of something else."
+
+"Most willingly, my dear Clara; but what shall we talk about?"
+
+"Well, whatever you like, dear, the rain, the fine weather, your
+journey, or anything of that sort."
+
+Don Sancho understood that his sister was suffering from extreme
+nervous excitement, and that he would aggravate her already very
+serious condition by not acceding to her wishes; hence he made no
+objection, but readily yielded to her caprice.
+
+"Well then," he said, "my dear Clara, since that is the case, I
+will take advantage of the opportunity to ask you to give me some
+information."
+
+"What is it brother? I live in great seclusion as you see, and doubt
+whether I can satisfy you, but speak all the same."
+
+"You know, little sister, that I am a stranger in Hispaniola, where I
+only arrived four days ago, and then for the first time."
+
+"That is true; you have never visited the island; what do you think of
+it?"
+
+"It is frightful, that is to say admirable; frightful as regards roads,
+and admirable for scenery: you see that my proposition is not so
+illogical as it at first appeared."
+
+"In truth the roads are not convenient."
+
+"Say that there are none, and you will tell the truth.";
+
+"You are severe."
+
+"No, I am only just; if you had seen what magnificent roads we possess
+in Mexico, you would be of my opinion; but that is not the point at
+present."
+
+"What is it then?"
+
+"Why, the information I want of you."
+
+"Ah, that is true, I forgot it; but explain yourself, I am listening."
+
+"This is it. Just imagine when I embarked at Veracruz to come here, all
+the persons to whom I announced my departure invariably answered me
+with a desperate agreement:--'Ah! you are going to Hispaniola, Senor
+Don Sancho de Penaflor, hum, hum, take care.' On board the vessel I
+constantly heard the officers muttering among themselves 'keep a good
+watch, take care.' At last I reached St. Domingo; my first care was,
+as I told you, to go to the Count de Bejar, your husband, who received
+me as kindly as he is capable of doing; but when I announced my
+intention of coming to join you here, he frowned, and his first words
+were 'the deuce, Don Sancho, you want to go to the hatto, take care,
+take care.' It was enough to drive me mad; this sinister warning which
+everywhere and at all hours echoed in my ears infuriated me. I did
+not try to obtain any explanation from your husband, as I should not
+have succeeded; but I inwardly resolved to get to the bottom of this
+ill-omened phrase so soon as the opportunity presented itself. It did
+present itself soon, but I am no further advanced than I was before,
+and hence apply to you to solve the riddle."
+
+"But I am waiting for your explanation, for I confess that up to the
+present I have not understood a word you have been saying."
+
+"Very good, let me finish. I had scarce set out with the slaves your
+husband lent me, when I saw the scamps constantly turn their heads
+to the right and left, with a look of terror. At first I attached no
+great importance to this; but they ran away on seeing a magnificent
+wild boar. I felt a fancy to shoot it, which I did by the way, and have
+brought it here. When these unlucky Negroes saw me cock my fusil they
+fell at my knees, clasping their hands with terror, and exclaiming in
+a most lamentable voice,--'Take care, Excellency, take care!' 'What
+must I take care of, you scoundrels?' I exclaimed in exasperation.
+'The _ladrones_, Excellency, the _ladrones_!' I could obtain no other
+explanation from them but this; but I hope, little sister, that you
+will be kind enough to tell me who these formidable ladrones are."
+
+He bent over her; but Dona Clara, with her eyes widely dilated, her
+arms stretched out and her features distorted, fixed upon him such an
+extraordinary look, that he recoiled in horror.
+
+"The ladrones, the ladrones!" she twice repeated in a shrill voice;
+"Oh! have pity, brother."
+
+She rose to her full height, advanced a few paces mechanically, and
+fell fainting on the floor.
+
+"What is the meaning of this?" the young man asked himself, as he
+rushed forward to raise her.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+THE MAJOR-DOMO'S STORY.
+
+
+Don Sancho, feeling very anxious about the state in which he saw his
+sister, hastily summoned her women who at once flocked around her. He
+confided her to their care, and retired to the apartment prepared for
+him, while ordering that he should be immediately warned so soon as
+Dona Clara displayed any signs of recovery.
+
+Don Sancho de Penaflor was a charming cavalier, gay, merry, enjoying
+life and repulsing with the egotism of his age and rank, every grief
+and even every annoyance.
+
+Belonging to one of the first families of the Spanish aristocracy,
+destined to be one day immensely rich, and through his name to hold
+the highest offices and make one of those magnificent marriages of
+convenience, which render diplomatists so happy, by leaving their minds
+perfectly free for grand political combinations,--he strove, as far
+as lay in his power, to check the beating of his heart, and not to
+trouble by any unusual passion, the bright serenity of his existence.
+Captain in the army, while awaiting something better, and to have the
+air of doing something, he had followed his father as aide-de-camp to
+Mexico, when the latter was appointed viceroy of New Spain. But, being
+yet too young to regard life seriously and be ambitious, he had turned
+his attention to gambling and flirtations since his arrival in America,
+which greatly annoyed the Duke, for as the latter had passed the age of
+love, he had no mercy for young men sacrificing to the idol which he
+had himself worshipped for so long.
+
+Don Sancho was generally an excellent hearted fellow and good
+companion, but affected, like all the Spaniards of that period, and
+perhaps of the present, by caste prejudices, regarding the Negroes and
+Indians as beasts of burden, created for his use, and disdaining to
+conceal the contempt and disgust he felt for these disinherited races.
+
+In a word, Don Sancho, in accordance with the precept of his family,
+always looked above him and never below; he endured his equals, but
+established an impassable barrier of pride and disdain between himself
+and his inferiors.
+
+Still, perhaps unconsciously,--for we will not give him the merit of
+it,--a tender feeling had glided into the cold atmosphere in which
+he was condemned to live, had penetrated to his heart, and at times
+threatened to overthrow all his transcendental theories about egotism.
+
+This feeling was nothing else than the affection he felt for his
+sister,--an affection which might pass for adoration, for it was so
+truly devoted, respectful and disinterested; to please his sister he
+would have attempted impossibilities; a simple word that fell from
+her lips rendered him pliant and obedient as a slave; a desire she
+manifested became at once an order for him as serious, and perhaps more
+so, than if it had emanated from the King of Spain and the Indies,
+although that magnificent potentate haughtily flattered himself that
+the sun never set on his dominions.
+
+The first words the Count uttered so soon as he found himself alone in
+his apartment, will show his character better than anything we can add.
+
+"Well," he exclaimed as he sank despairingly into an easy chair,
+"instead of passing a few days agreeably here as I expected, I shall
+be obliged to listen to Clara's complaints and console her; the deuce
+take unhappy people, it really seems as if they had made agreement to
+trouble my tranquillity."
+
+At the expiration of about three-quarters of an hour, a black slave
+came to inform him that Dona Clara had regained her senses, but still
+felt so weak and faint, that she begged him to refrain from seeing her
+that evening.
+
+The young man was in his heart well pleased at the liberty granted him
+by his sister, and which dispensed him from recurring to a conversation
+which possessed no charm for him.
+
+"Very good," he said to the slave, "give my respects to my sister, and
+order my supper to be served here; you will at the same time request
+the Major-domo to come to me as I want to speak to him. Begone!"
+
+The slave went out and left him alone.
+
+The young Count then threw himself back in his chair, stretched out
+his legs and plunged, not into any reverie, but into that state of
+somnolency which is neither waking or sleeping, during which the mind
+seems to wander in unknown regions, and which the Spaniards call a
+siesta.
+
+While he was in this state, the slaves laid the table, being careful
+not to disturb him, and covered it with exquisite dishes.
+
+But soon the steam of the dishes placed before him recalled the young
+man to the reality, he drew himself up and seated himself at the table.
+
+"Why has not the Major-domo come," he asked, "have you neglected to
+tell him?"
+
+"Pardon, Excellency, but the Major-domo is absent at this moment," a
+slave respectfully answered.
+
+"Absent--for what motive?"
+
+"He is paying his usual evening visit to the grounds, but will soon
+return; if your Excellency will be good enough to have a little
+patience, you will soon see him."
+
+"Very good, although I do not understand the urgency of this visit.
+There are no wild beasts here, I suppose?"
+
+"No, Excellency, thank heaven!"
+
+"Then, what is the meaning of these precautions?"
+
+"They are meant to guard the house from the attacks of the ladrones,
+Excellency."
+
+"The ladrones again," he exclaimed, bounding from his seat, "why, it
+must be a wager! Everybody seems to have agreed to mystify me, heaven
+forgive me."
+
+At this moment spurs could be heard clattering outside the room.
+
+"Here is the Major-domo, Excellency," one of the Negroes said.
+
+"That is lucky, let him come in."
+
+Birbomono appeared, took off his hat, bowed respectfully to the Count,
+and waited to be addressed.
+
+"Confound it," the young man said to him, "I asked for you an hour or
+more ago."
+
+"I am in despair at it, Excellency, but I was only told of it this very
+instant."
+
+"I know, I know. Have you dined?"
+
+"Not yet, Excellency."
+
+"Well then, seat yourself there, opposite to me."
+
+The Major-domo who knew the Count's haughty character, hesitated; he
+did not at all understand the condescension on his part.
+
+"Sit down, I say," the young man replied; "we are in the country, so it
+is of no consequence; besides, I want to talk with you."
+
+The Major-domo then took the place pointed out to him, without further
+pressing.
+
+The meal was short--for the Count ate without uttering a single word;
+when it was ended, he thrust away his plate, drank a glass of water
+after the Spanish fashion, lit an excellent cigar and gave another to
+the Major-domo.
+
+"Smoke, I permit it," he said.
+
+Birbomono gratefully accepted; but feeling more and more astonished, he
+could not refrain from asking himself mentally, what important motive
+his young master could have for treating him so condescendingly.
+When the table was cleared and the slaves had withdrawn, the two
+men remained alone. The night was magnificent and the atmosphere
+marvellously clear; a multitude of stars floated in aether, a sweet warm
+breeze penetrated through the windows, left expressly open, a profound
+silence lay over the landscape, and from the spot where the two men
+were seated, they perceived the dark mass of forest trees that closed
+the horizon.
+
+"Now," said the Count, as he puffed out a cloud of bluish smoke, "let
+us talk."
+
+"Very good, Excellency," the Major-domo replied.
+
+"I have several things to ask you, Birbomono; you know me, I think, and
+that whether I threaten or promise, I always carry out what I say?"
+
+"I am aware of it, Excellency!"
+
+"Very good, that being settled, I will come to the fact without
+further preamble. I have certain very important information to ask of
+you; answering my questions is not betraying your mistress, who is my
+sister, and whom I love before all else; on the contrary, it is perhaps
+rendering her a service indirectly. Besides, if you refused to tell
+me what I want to know, I should learn it from another quarter, and
+you would forfeit any advantage to be derived from your frankness; you
+understand me, I suppose?"
+
+"Perfectly, Excellency."
+
+"Well then, what do you intend doing."
+
+"My lord, I am devoted body and soul to your family, hence, I shall
+consider it a duty to answer, as best I can, all the questions you may
+deign to ask me, for I feel convinced that in questioning me, you have
+no other motive but that of being agreeable to my mistress."
+
+"It is impossible to argue more correctly, Birbomono, I have always
+said that you were an intelligent man; and this answer proves to
+me that I was not mistaken. Now, I will begin, but let us proceed
+regularly, so inform me of what occurred between my sister and her
+husband, up to her arrival here; and the motives for her quitting St.
+Domingo."
+
+"You know, Excellency, my lord Count de Bejar of Sousa, the husband of
+your lady sister and my master, is a gentleman not naturally given to
+speaking, but kind and sincerely attached to his wife, whose every wish
+he strives to satisfy, without even venturing a remark. At St. Domingo
+the Countess lived in the most absolute retirement, constantly shut
+up in her remotest apartments, to which only her women, her confessor
+and her physician had access. The Count visited her every morning and
+evening, remained about a quarter of an hour with her, conversing on
+indifferent subjects, and then withdrew."
+
+"Hum! This mode of life of my dear sister appears to me rather
+monotonous; did it last long?"
+
+"For several months, Excellency, and it would doubtless still be going
+on, had it not been for an event which no one but myself knows, and
+which induced her to come here."
+
+"Ah, ah, and what was the event, if you please?"
+
+"I will tell you, Excellency; one day a ship of our nation arrived
+at St. Domingo; during its passage through the islands, it had been
+attacked by the ladrones, from whom it had escaped by a miracle,
+capturing several of them."
+
+"Ah! I must stop you here," the Count exclaimed suddenly sitting up;
+"before going further, one word about these ladrones, of whom persons
+are incessantly talking, and no one knows. Do you know what they are?"
+
+"Certainly I do, Excellency."
+
+"At last," the Count added joyously, "I have at length found what I
+wanted. As you know, I suppose you will tell me?"
+
+"Most willingly, Excellency."
+
+"Go on."
+
+"Oh! It will not be long, Excellency."
+
+"All the worse."
+
+"But I believe that it will be interesting."
+
+"All the better then, make haste."
+
+"These ladrones are English and French adventurers, whose courage
+exceeds all belief; lying in ambush among the rocks in the straits
+through which our vessels must pass, for they have vowed a war of
+extermination against our nation, they dart out in wretched canoes half
+full of water, leap on board the ship they have surprised, capture
+it and carry it off. The injury done our marine by these ladrones is
+immense; any ship attacked by them, with but few exceptions, may be
+regarded as lost."
+
+"Confusion! That is very serious; has nothing been done to clear the
+seas from these daring pirates?"
+
+"Pardon me, Excellency; Don Fernando de Toledo, admiral of the fleet,
+sacked, by the king's orders, the island of St. Christopher, the refuge
+of the ladrones, carried off all he could seize, and did not leave one
+stone on the other in the colony they had founded."
+
+"Ah, ah!" said the Count, rubbing his hands, "That was well done, it
+appears to me."
+
+"No, Excellency, and for this reason. These ladrones, scattered but not
+destroyed, spread over the other islands; some of them, it is true,
+returned to St. Christopher, but the greater part of them had the
+audacity to seek a refuge in Hispaniola itself."
+
+"Yes, but they have been expelled, I hope."
+
+"It has been tried, at any rate, Excellency, but without success; since
+that period they have managed to maintain themselves in the part of
+the island they invaded, and have resisted all the forces sent against
+them. Instead of being assailed they have become assailants, and pushed
+on to the Spanish frontier, burning, plundering and sacking everything
+they met on their passage; they did this the more easily, because they
+inspire our soldiers with extreme terror, who as soon as they see them
+or even hear them, take to flight without looking behind them. This
+has reached such a pitch, Excellency, that the Count de Bejar, our
+governor, has been compelled to take their fusils from the detachments
+called the Fifties, ordered to protect the frontiers, and arm them with
+lances."
+
+"What! Take away their fusils! And for what motive? Great heaven! this
+seems to me almost too incredible."
+
+"Still, it can be easy understood, Excellency--the soldiers feel so
+great a terror of the ladrones, that when they found themselves in
+regions frequented by them, and were consequently afraid of meeting
+them, they discharged their fusils, expressly to warn them of their
+presence, and thus invite them to retire, which the ladrones never
+failed to do; and knowing in this way the position of the soldiers,
+they went off to plunder in another direction, certain of not being
+disturbed."
+
+"It is almost incredible. Do you fear their visit here?"
+
+"They have not yet come on this side; still, it is as well to be on
+one's guard."
+
+"I believe so--that is excessively prudent, and I approve of it; but
+now let us return to the story you were telling me when I interrupted
+you to give me this valuable information; you were saying that a
+Spanish man-o'-war had arrived at Saint Domingo, having on board
+several ladrones as prisoners."
+
+"Yes, Excellency. Now, you must know that the ladrones are hung so soon
+as they are caught."
+
+"That measure is very wise."
+
+"These were reserved to make an example of on the island itself, and
+terrify their accomplices; they were, therefore, landed, and placed
+in Capilla, while awaiting their execution. It was Fray Arsenio who
+undertook to reconcile the wretches with Heaven if it were possible."
+
+"A rude task; but who is Fray Arsenio?"
+
+"The confessor of my lady Countess."
+
+"Very good; proceed."
+
+"Just imagine, Excellency, that these ladrones are very pious men;
+they never attack a vessel without offering up prayers to Heaven,
+and sing the Magnificat and other church hymns while boarding; hence
+Fray Arsenio had no difficulty in making them perform their religious
+duties. The Governor had decided that, in order that the example
+should benefit the rest, these ladrones should be hung on the Spanish
+frontier; they were, therefore, taken out of prison, securely bound,
+and traversed the town in carts, guarded by a numerous escort, and
+passing through the crowds, who overwhelmed them with maledictions
+and cries of anger and threatening. But the ladrones seemed to pay
+no attention to this manifestation of the public hatred; they were
+five in number, young, and apparently very powerful. All at once, at
+the moment when the carts, which were going very slowly, owing to the
+crowd, arrived in front of the Governor's palace, the ladrones rose
+altogether, uttered a loud cry, and, leaping into the street, took
+refuge in the palace, whose guard they disarmed, and closed the gates
+after them; they had succeeded in cutting their bonds, no one knew
+how. There was at first a moment of profound stupor among the crowd on
+seeing such a desperate deed, but ere long the soldiers regained their
+courage, and marched boldly on the palace, where the ladrones received
+them with musket shots. The fight was bravely carried on on both sides,
+but all the disadvantage was on the side of our men, who were exposed
+to the shots of invisible enemies, and renowned marksmen, every shot
+from whom brought down a victim. Some twenty dead, and as many wounded,
+were already lying on the square; the soldiers hesitated to continue
+this deadly contest, when the Governor, warned of what was going on,
+came up at full speed, followed by his officers. Fortunately for him,
+the Count was not at home when the ladrones seized his palace; but the
+Countess was there, and the Count trembled lest she should fall into
+the hands of these villains. He summoned them to surrender; they only
+replied by a discharge, which killed several persons by the Governor's
+side, and slightly wounded himself."
+
+"The daring villains!" the Count muttered--"I hope they were hung."
+
+"No, Excellency; after holding all the forces of the town in check for
+two hours, they proposed a capitulation, which was accepted."
+
+"What!" the Count exclaimed, "Accepted! Oh! This is too much."
+
+"It is the exact truth, however, Excellency; they threatened, unless
+they were allowed to retire in peace, to blow themselves up with the
+palace, which would have entailed the general ruin of the town, and to
+cut the throats of the prisoners in their power--that of the Countess
+first of all; the Governor tore out his hair with rage, but they only
+laughed."
+
+"Why they are not men!" the Count exclaimed, stamping his foot
+passionately.
+
+"No, Excellency, I told you, they are demons. The Count's officers
+persuaded him to accept the capitulation; the bandits insisted that the
+streets should be cleared for their passage; they had horses brought
+for them, and two for the Countess and one of her servants, whom they
+retained as hostages till they were in safety; and they went out well
+armed, leading in their midst my poor mistress, trembling with terror,
+and more dead, than alive. The ladrones did not hurry, they went at
+a foot pace, laughing and talking together, turning round, and even
+stopping now and then to stare at the crowd, which followed them at a
+respectful distance. They left the town in this way, but religiously
+kept their promise; two hours later, my lady the Countess, to whom they
+had behaved with great courtesy, returned to Saint Domingo, accompanied
+to the palace by the acclamations and glad shouts of the populace,
+who fancied her lost. The next day the Count ordered me to accompany
+the Countess here, where the physicians recommended her to live for a
+while, in order to rest from the terrible emotions she had doubtless
+experienced while she was in the power of the bandits."
+
+"And since your installation at the hatto I presume nothing
+extraordinary has occurred?"
+
+"Yes, Excellency, something has happened, and that is why I told
+you at the beginning that I alone knew the event which had modified
+my mistress's mode of living. One of the ladrones had a very long
+interview with her before they left her, an interview I saw, too far
+off to hear what was said, it is true, but near enough to judge of the
+interest she felt in it, and the impression it produced on her, for I
+had followed my mistress, resolved not to abandon her, and help her,
+were it necessary, at the risk of my life."
+
+"That is the behaviour of a good servant, Birbomono, and I thank you
+for it."
+
+"I only did my duty, Excellency; so soon as the ladrones left her
+alone I approached my mistress, and escorted her back to the town. A
+few days after our arrival here my mistress dressed herself in man's
+clothes, left the hatto unseen, only followed by myself and Fray
+Arsenio, who had refused to leave her, and led us to a secluded bay
+on the coast, where one of the ladrones was awaiting us. This man had
+another long conversation with my mistress, then, bidding us get into
+a canoe, he took us to a Spanish brigantine, tacking in sight of the
+coast. I afterwards learnt that this brigantine had been freighted by
+Fray Arsenio by my mistress's orders. So soon as we were on board this
+vessel, sail was set, and we put out to sea; the _ladron_ had returned
+ashore in the canoe."
+
+"Nonsense!" the young man violently interjected; "What fables are you
+telling me, Birbomono?"
+
+"Excellency, I am only telling you the truth you asked of me, without
+adding or omitting anything."
+
+"Well, I am willing to believe you, incredible though the whole affair
+appears."
+
+"Shall I break off here, Excellency, or continue my narration?"
+
+"Go on, in the Fiend's name! Perhaps some light will eventually issue
+from all this chaos."
+
+"Our brigantine began tacking between the islands, at a great risk
+of being snapped up as it passed by the ladrones; but, through some
+incomprehensible miracle, it succeeded in passing unseen, so that in
+eight days it reached an island in the form of a mountain, called
+Nevis, I believe, and only separated by a narrow channel from St.
+Kitts."
+
+"But, from what you told me yourself, St, Christopher is the den of the
+ladrones."
+
+"Yes, Excellency, and so it is; the brigantine did not anchor, it
+merely backed sails, and lowered a boat. My mistress, the monk, and
+I, got into it, and we were landed on the island; but, as she put her
+little foot on land, the Countess turned to me, and fixing on me a
+glance which nailed me to the boat I was on the point of leaving, she
+said--'Here is a letter, which you will carry to St. Christopher, there
+you will inquire for a celebrated Chief of the ladrones, whose name
+is Montbarts: you will have him pointed out to you; follow him, and
+place this letter in his own hands. Go, I count on your fidelity.' What
+could I do? Only obey: you will agree with me, Excellency. The sailors
+in the boat, as if warned beforehand, conveyed me to St. Christopher,
+where I landed unseen: I was lucky enough to meet this Montbarts, and
+hand him the letter, and then I slipped away; the boat which had been
+waiting for me took me back to Nevis, and the Senora thanked me. At
+sunset Montbarts arrived at Nevis; he talked for nearly an hour with
+the monk, while Dona Clara was concealed in a tent, and then went away:
+a few minutes later, the Countess and Fray Arsenio returned aboard the
+brigantine, which conveyed us back to Hispaniola with the same good
+fortune. The monk remained in the French part of the island, for some
+reason I do not know, while my mistress and I, as soon as we landed,
+returned to the hatto, where we arrived just ten days ago."
+
+"And then?" the Count asked, seeing that the Major-domo was silent.
+
+"That is all, Excellency," he answered; "since then Dona Clara has
+remained shut up in her apartments, and nothing has happened to trouble
+the monotony of our existence."
+
+The Count rose without replying, walked up and down the room in
+considerable agitation, and then turned to Birbomono.
+
+"Very good, Major-domo," he said to him--"I thank you; keep your mouth
+shut about this, and now you can retire. Remember, that no one in the
+household must suspect the importance of the conversation we have had
+together."
+
+"I shall be dumb, Excellency," the Major-domo answered, and retired
+with a respectful bow.
+
+"It is evident," the young man muttered, so soon as he was alone, "that
+there is at the bottom of this affair a frightful secret, of which my
+sister in all probability will condemn me to take my share. I am afraid
+that I have fallen into a trap. Hang it all! Why could not Clara let me
+live at my ease in Saint Domingo?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+ACROSS COUNTRY.
+
+
+On the morrow, Dona Clara appeared, if not completely recovered from
+her previous emotion, at least in a far more satisfactory state of
+health than her brother had dared to hope after the fainting fit of
+which he had been witness.
+
+No allusion was made, however, by one or the other to the previous
+evening's conversation. Dona Clara, although very pale, and excessively
+weak, affected gaiety and even merriment; she carried matters so far as
+even to take a short walk in the garden, leaning on her brother's arm.
+
+But the latter was not deceived by this conduct; he understood that
+his sister, vexed at having talked to him too frankly, was trying
+to lead him astray as to her condition, by affecting a gaiety far
+from her heart. Still, he did not let anything be seen, and when the
+great heat of the day had passed, he pretended a desire to visit the
+surrounding country, in order to give his sister a little liberty:
+taking his fusil, he mounted his horse, and rode out, accompanied by
+the Major-domo, who offered to act as his guide during his excursion.
+
+Dona Clara made but a faint effort to keep him at home; in her heart
+she was pleased to be alone for a few hours.
+
+The young man galloped across country with a feverish impatience.
+He was in a state of excitement, for which he could not account to
+himself; in spite of his egotism, he felt himself interested in his
+sister's misfortune; so much humble resignation involuntarily affected
+him, and he would have been happy to infuse a little joy into this
+heart crushed by grief; on the other hand, the Major-domo's singular
+story incessantly returned to his mind, and aroused his curiosity
+in the highest degree. Still he would not for anything in the world
+have questioned his sister about the obscure parts of this narrative,
+or merely let her know that he was aware of her relations with the
+filibusters of St. Kitts.
+
+The two men had entered the savannah territory, and talking of
+indifferent topics; but as the Count could not get rid of the
+recollection of what the Major-domo had told him, he turned sharply
+toward him at a certain moment.
+
+"By the way," he asked him sharply, "I have not yet seen my sister's
+confessor. How do you call him?"
+
+"Fray Arsenio, Excellency; he is a Franciscan monk."
+
+"Yes, that's it, Fray Arsenio. Well, why does he persist in remaining
+invisible?"
+
+"For an excellent reason, Excellency; the reason I had the honour of
+explaining to you last evening."
+
+"That is possible--I do not say you did not; but everything is so
+confused in my mind," he said, with feigned indifference, "that I no
+longer remember what you told me on the subject; you will therefore
+oblige me by repeating it."
+
+"That is easy, Excellency. Fray Arsenio left us at the moment when we
+landed, and has not reappeared at the hatto since."
+
+"That is singular: and does not Dona Clara appear alarmed and vexed at
+so long an absence?"
+
+"Not at all, Excellency; the senora never speaks of Fray Arsenio, and
+does not inquire whether he has returned or not."
+
+"It is strange," the young man muttered to himself; "what is the
+meaning of this mysterious absence?"
+
+After this aside, the Count suddenly broke off the conversation and
+resumed the chase. They had been absent from the hatto for some hours,
+and had insensibly gone a very considerable distance; the sun was
+nearing the horizon, and the Count was preparing to turn back, when
+suddenly a great noise of breaking branches was heard at the skirt of
+the forest, from which they were only separated by a few shrubs, and
+several wild oxen dashed on to the savannah, pursued, or, to speak more
+correctly, hunted, by a dozen hounds, which barked furiously while
+snapping at them.
+
+The oxen, seven or eight in number, passed like a tornado two horse
+lengths from the Count, to whom this unexpected apparition caused such
+a surprise, that he remained for a moment motionless, not knowing what
+to do.
+
+The savage animals, still harassed by the hounds, which did not leave
+them, made a sudden wheel, and turning back, seemed trying to enter the
+forest at the spot where they had left it; but they had hardly resumed
+their flight in that direction, when a fusil was discharged, and a
+bull, struck in the head, fell dead on the ground.
+
+At the same instant a man emerged in his turn from the forest, and
+walked up to the animal, which was lying motionless and nearly hidden
+in the tall grass, without appearing to notice the two Spaniards, and
+reloading as he walked along the long fusil he had, in all probability,
+just employed so adroitly.
+
+This hunting episode was accomplished more quickly than it has taken
+us to describe it, so that Don Sancho had not quite recovered from his
+surprise, when the Major-domo bent down to his side and said in a low
+voice, half choked with terror--
+
+"Excellency, you wanted to see a _ladron_. Well, look carefully at that
+man, he is one."
+
+Don Sancho was endowed with undaunted courage. When his first surprise
+had passed, he became again completely master of himself, and regained
+all his coolness.
+
+After securing his seat on the saddle, he advanced slowly toward the
+stranger, while examining him curiously. He was a man still young, of
+middle height, but well and powerfully built; his regular, majestic,
+and rather handsome features displayed boldness and intelligence. Cold,
+heat, rain, and sunshine to which he had doubtless for a long time been
+exposed, had given his face a decided bistre hue; and although he wore
+his full beard, it was cut rather short.
+
+His dress, of almost primitive simplicity, so to speak, was composed of
+two shirts, breeches, and jacket, all of canvas, but so covered with
+spots of blood and grease, that it was impossible to recognise its
+original colour. He wore a leathern belt, from which hung on one side
+a case of crocodile skin, containing four knives and a bayonet; on the
+other, a large calabash, stopped with wax, and a hide bag containing
+bullets. He wore across his shoulders a small coat of fine canvas,
+rolled up and reduced to its smallest compass; and in lieu of shoes,
+boots made of untanned oxhide. His long hair, fastened with a _vibora_
+skin, escaped from under a fur cap which covered his head, and was
+protected by a peak in front.
+
+His fusil, whose barrel was four and a half feet in length, could be
+easily recognized through the strange form of its stock, as turned out
+by Brachie, of Dieppe, who with Gelin, of Nantes, had the monopoly of
+manufacturing arms for the adventurers. This fusil was of the calibre
+of sixteen to the pound.
+
+The appearance of this man, thus armed and accoutred, had really
+something imposing and formidable about it.
+
+You instinctively felt yourself in face of a powerful nature, of a
+chosen organization, accustomed only to reckon on oneself, and which no
+danger was great enough to astound or even affect.
+
+While continuing to advance toward the bull, he took a side glance at
+the two horsemen; then, without paying any further attention to them,
+he whistled to his dogs, which at once gave up their pursuit of the
+herd, and after drawing a knife from his sheath, he began skinning the
+animal lying at his feet.
+
+At this moment the Count came up to his side.
+
+"Eh," he said to him in a sharp voice, "who are you, and what do you
+here?"
+
+The buccaneer, for he was one, raised his head, looked sarcastically
+at the man who addressed him so peremptorily, and then shrugged his
+shoulders with disdain.
+
+"Who I am?" he replied, mockingly; "You see that I am a buccaneer, and
+what I am doing. I am flaying a bull I have slain. What next?"
+
+"I want to know by what right you hunt on my land?"
+
+"Ah! This land is yours? I am very glad to hear it. Well, I am hunting
+here because I think proper. If that does not suit you, I feel sorry
+for it, my pretty gentleman."
+
+"What do you mean?" the Count continued, haughtily; "And how do you
+dare to assume such a tone with me?"
+
+"Probably, because it is the one that suits me best," the buccaneer
+replied, drawing himself up quickly; "go your road, my fine sir, and
+take some good advice; if you do not wish your handsome jerkin to be
+filled with broken bones within five minutes, do not trouble yourself
+about me more than I do about you, and leave me to attend to my
+business."
+
+"I will not allow it," the young man answered, violently; "the land you
+are trespassing on so impertinently belongs to my sister, Dona Clara de
+Bejar; I will not suffer it to be invaded with impunity by vagabonds
+of your description. _iViva Dios!_ You will decamp at once, my master,
+or, if not--"
+
+"If not?" the buccaneer asked, with eyes flashing fire, while the
+Major-domo, foreseeing a catastrophe, prudently glided behind his
+master.
+
+As for the latter, he stood cool and impassive before the buccaneer,
+resolved to take the offensive vigorously, if he saw him make the
+slightest suspicious gesture. But, contrary to all expectation, the
+adventurer's menacing look became almost suddenly calm, his features
+resumed their usual expression of nonchalance; and it was in an almost
+friendly tone, in spite of its roughness, that he said--
+
+"Halloh! What name was that you mentioned, if you please?"
+
+"That of the owner of this savannah."
+
+"I suppose so," the adventurer replied, laughing; "but may I ask you to
+repeat the name?"
+
+"That is of no consequence, my master," the young man said
+disdainfully, for he fancied that his adversary was backing out of the
+quarrel; "the name I uttered is that of Dona Clara de Bejar of Sousa."
+
+"Et cetera," the buccaneer said, with a laugh, "these devils of
+gavachos have names for every day in the year. Come, don't be angry,
+my young cock," he added, remarking the flush which the expression he
+had employed spread over the Count's face; "we are, perhaps, nearer an
+understanding than you imagine--what would you gain by a fight with me?
+Nothing; and you might, on the contrary, lose a great deal."
+
+"I do not understand your words," the young man answered drily, "but I
+hope you are about to explain them."
+
+"It will not take long, as you shall see," the other said tauntingly,
+and, turning to the forest, he raised his hands to his mouth in the
+shape of a speaking trumpet.
+
+"Eh! L'Olonnais!" he shouted.
+
+"Hola!" a man immediately answered, whom the denseness of the forest in
+which he was hidden rendered invisible.
+
+"Come here, my son," the buccaneer continued, "I believe we have found
+your little matter."
+
+"Ah, ah!" L'Olonnais, still invisible, replied, "I must have a look at
+it."
+
+The young Count did not know what to think of this new incident which
+seemed about to change the state of affairs; he feared a coarse jest
+on the part of these half-savage men. He hesitated between giving way
+to the passion that was boiling within him, or patiently awaiting the
+result of the buccaneer's summons; but a secret foreboding urged him to
+restrain himself and act prudently with these men, who did not appear
+animated by an evil design against him, and whose manners, though quick
+and rough, were still friendly.
+
+At this moment L'Olonnais appeared; he wore the same dress as the
+buccaneer: he advanced hurriedly toward the latter, and without
+troubling himself about the two Spaniards, asked him what he wanted,
+while throwing on the ground a wild bull's hide, which he was carrying
+on his shoulders.
+
+"Did you not tell me something about a letter which Bowline sent you
+this morning by the hands of Omopoua?"
+
+"It is true, Lepoletais. I spoke to you about it," he said, "and it was
+settled between us that as you know the country, you were to lead me to
+the person to whom I have to deliver this accursed slip of paper."
+
+"Well, then, my son, if you like, your commission is performed,"
+Lepoletais continued, as he pointed to Don Sancho, "he is the brother,
+or at least calls himself so, of the person in question."
+
+"Stuff," L'Olonnais replied, fixing alight glance on the young man,
+"that gay springald?"
+
+"Yes, he says so; for as you know, the Spaniards are such liars, that
+it is not possible even to trust to their word."
+
+Don Sancho blushed with indignation.
+
+"Who gave you the right to doubt mine?" he exclaimed.
+
+"Nothing has done so up to the present, hence I am not addressing
+myself to you, but speaking generally."
+
+"So," L'Olonnais asked him, "you are the brother of Dona Clara de
+Bejar, the mistress of the hatto del Rincon?"
+
+"Once again, yes, I am her brother."
+
+"Good! And how will you prove it to me?"
+
+The young man shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"What do I care whether you believe me or not?" he said.
+
+"That is possible, but it is of great consequence to me to be certain
+of the fact; I am entrusted with a letter for that lady, and wish to
+perform my commission properly."
+
+"In that case hand me the letter, and I will deliver it myself."
+
+"You found that out all by yourself," the engage said mockingly, "a
+likely notion that I should give you the note on your demand," and he
+burst into a hearty laugh, in which Lepoletais joined.
+
+"These Spaniards doubt nothing," the buccaneer said.
+
+"In that case go to the deuce, you and your letter," the young man
+exclaimed passionately, "it does not make any difference to me if you
+keep it."
+
+"Come, come, don't be savage, hang it all," L'Olonnais continued in a
+conciliatory tone; "there is possibly a means of arranging matters to
+the general satisfaction; I am not so black as I look, and I have good
+intentions, but I do not wish to be duped, that is all."
+
+The young man, in spite of the visible repugnance with which the
+adventurers inspired him did not dare to break suddenly with them; the
+letter might be very important, and his sister, doubtless would not
+pardon him if he acted petulantly in this matter.
+
+"Come," he said, "speak, but make haste; it is late--I am far from the
+hatto, where I wish to return before sunset, so as not to alarm my
+sister unnecessarily."
+
+"That is the conduct of a good brother," the engage answered with an
+ironical smile; "this is what I propose to you: tell the little lady in
+question that Montbart's engage has orders to deliver a letter to her,
+and that if she wishes to have it, she need only come and fetch it."
+
+"What! Fetch it, where?"
+
+"Here; zounds! Lepoletais and I will set up a boucan at this spot; we
+will wait for the lady all tomorrow here: it seems to me that what I
+propose is simple and easy."
+
+"And do you believe," he answered ironically, "that my sister will
+consent to accept such an appointment made by a wretched adventurer?
+why, you must be mad!"
+
+"I do not believe anything, I make you a proposal, which you are free
+to accept or refuse, that is all: as for the letter, she shall only
+have it by coming to fetch it herself."
+
+"Why not accompany me to the hatto, that would be more simple, I fancy?"
+
+"It is possible, and that was my intention at first, but I have changed
+my mind; so settle what you will do."
+
+"My sister respects herself too much to take such a step, I am certain
+beforehand that she will indignantly refuse."
+
+"Well, you may be mistaken, my friend," the engage said, with a knowing
+smile, "who ever knows what women think!"
+
+"Well, to cut short an interview which has already lasted too long, I
+will inform her of what you have said to me; still, I do not conceal
+from you that I shall make every effort to prevent her coming."
+
+"You can do as you please, it does not concern me; but be assured that
+if it be her wish to come, as I believe, your arguments will be of no
+use."
+
+"We shall see."
+
+"Mind not to forget to tell her that the letter is from Montbarts."
+
+During this conversation, which possessed no interest for him,
+Lepoletais, with the characteristic coolness and carelessness of
+buccaneers, was engaged in cutting down branches, and planting stakes
+to make the _ajoupa_ under which they would camp for the night.
+
+"You see," the engage added, "that my comrade has already set to work;
+so good-bye till tomorrow, as I have no time for further talk, I must
+help to prepare the boucan."
+
+"Do as you please, but I am persuaded that you are wrong in reckoning
+on the success of the commission I have undertaken."
+
+"Well, you will see; at any rate mention it to the Senora. Ah! By the
+way, one word more, mind, no treachery."
+
+The young man did not condescend a reply: he shrugged his shoulders
+disdainfully, leaped on his horse, and galloped off in the direction of
+the hatto, closely followed by the Major-domo.
+
+On getting some distance away, he looked back: the ajoupa was already
+finished, and, as L'Olonnais had said, the two buccaneers were busily
+engaged in establishing their boucan, without paying any more attention
+to the Spaniards, who were doubtless prowling about the neighbourhood,
+than if they had been five hundred leagues from any habitation.
+
+Then he continued to advance thoughtfully in the direction of the hatto.
+
+"Well, Excellency," the Major-domo said presently, "you have seen the
+ladrones, what do you think of them now?"
+
+"They are rough men," he said, shaking his head sadly, "possessing
+brutal and indomitable natures, but relatively frank and honest, at
+least from their point of view."
+
+"Yes, yes, you are right, Excellency; and thus they gain more ground
+every day, and if they were left alone, I am afraid that the whole
+island would soon belong to them."
+
+"Oh, we have not reached that point yet," he said with a smile.
+
+"Pardon me, Excellency, for asking you the question, but do you intend
+to inform the Senora of this meeting?"
+
+"I should like not to do so; unfortunately, after what you had told me
+of the things that have taken place between my sister and these men,
+my silence might have very serious consequences for her. Hence it is
+better, I believe, to tell her frankly all about it, and she will be a
+better judge than I of the line of conduct she should pursue."
+
+"I believe you are right, Excellency. The Senora has perhaps a great
+interest in knowing the contents of that letter."
+
+"Well, let us trust in Heaven!"
+
+It was an hour past nightfall when they reached the hatto.
+
+They noticed with surprise an unusual movement round the house. Several
+fires lighted on the plain illumined the darkness. On approaching,
+the Count perceived that these fires were lit by soldiers, who had
+established their bivouac there.
+
+A confidential servant was watching for the Count's arrival. So soon as
+he saw him, he handed him several letters that had arrived for him, and
+begged him to go at once to the Senora, who was impatiently expecting
+him.
+
+"What is there new here?" he asked.
+
+"Two fifties arrived at sunset, Excellency," the servant answered.
+
+"Ah!" he remarked, with a slight frown. "Very good. Inform my sister
+that I shall be with her in an instant."
+
+The domestic bowed and retired. The young gentleman dismounted, and
+went to the apartments of Dona Clara, considerably puzzled by the
+unforeseen arrival of these troops at a spot which apparently enjoyed
+great tranquillity, and where their presence was unnecessary.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+COMPLICATIONS.
+
+
+We must now return to one of our characters, who up to the present has
+played but a secondary part in this story; but, as frequently happens,
+is now called on by the exigencies of our narrative to take his place
+in the foreground.
+
+We refer to Count Don Stenio de Bejar y Sousa, grandee of Spain of the
+first class, _caballero cubierto_, governor for His Majesty Philip II.
+of Spain and the Indies, of the island of Hispaniola, and husband of
+Dona Clara de Penaflor.
+
+Count Don Stenio de Bejar was a true Spaniard of the age of Charles V.,
+dry, stiff, full of pride and self-sufficiency, always with his hand
+on his hip, and his head thrown back when he deigned to speak, which,
+happened to him as rarely as possible, not through any want of sense,
+as he was far from being a fool; but through indolence and contempt of
+other men, whom he never looked at without half closing his eyes, and
+raising the corners of his lips disdainfully.
+
+Tall, well built, possessed of noble manners, and a very handsome face,
+the Count, apart from his determined silence, was one of the most
+accomplished cavaliers of the Spanish court, which, however, at that
+period, possessed a great number of them.
+
+His marriage with Dona Clara had been at the outset an affair of
+convenience and ambition, but gradually, through admiring the charming
+face of the woman he had married, seeing her gentle eyes fixed on
+him, and hearing her melodious voice resound in his ear, he had grown
+to love her--love her madly. Like all men accustomed to shut up and
+concentrate in their hearts the feelings that possessed them, the
+passion he experienced for Dona Clara had acquired proportions the more
+formidable, because the unhappy man had the desperate conviction that
+it would never be shared by the woman who was the object of it. All Don
+Stenio's advances had been so peremptorily rejected by his wife, that
+he at last made up his mind to abstain from them.
+
+But, like all disappointed lovers, this gentleman, who was at the same
+time the husband--a very aggravating fact in the species, was naturally
+too infatuated with his own merit, to attribute his defeat to himself,
+and hence had looked around to discover the fortunate rival who had
+robbed him of his wife's heart.
+
+Naturally the Count had not succeeded in finding this fancied rival,
+who only existed in his own imagination, and this had grown into a
+jealousy, the more ferocious because, as it did not know whom to settle
+on, it attacked everybody.
+
+The Count was jealous, then, not like a Spaniard, for the Spaniards
+generally, whatever may be said to the contrary, are not affected by
+that stupid malady, but like an Italian; and this jealousy made him
+suffer the more, because, like his love, he was unable to show it;
+through fear of ridicule, he was compelled to lock it up carefully in
+his heart.
+
+When, owing to his protection--as had been arranged on his marriage
+with Dona Clara, of whose previous union with the Count de Barmont
+he was ignorant--his father-in-law, the Duc de Penaflor, was
+appointed viceroy of New Spain, and himself obtained the government
+of Hispaniola, the Count experienced a feeling of indescribable joy,
+and an immense comfort inundated his mind. He was persuaded that in
+America, his wife, separated from her friends and relatives, forced,
+to live alone, and consequently to undergo his influence, would be
+driven through weariness and want of something better to do, to share
+his love, or at least accept it: and then again, on the islands there
+was no rivalry to fear among a half savage population entirely absorbed
+by a passion far more powerful than love--a passion for money.
+
+Alas! This time too, he was deceived. Dona Clara, it is true, gave him
+no more pretext for jealousy than she had done in Spain, but he did not
+any the more succeed in winning her affections. From the first day of
+her arrival at Saint Domingo, she manifested the desire to live alone
+and in retirement, engaged in religious practices; and the Count was
+constrained, in spite of his fury, to bow before a resolution which he
+recognised as irrevocable.
+
+He resigned himself; his jealousy however was not extinct, it was
+smouldering beneath the ashes, and a spark would suffice to make it
+burst into a more terrible flame than before.
+
+Still, in spite of this slight annoyance, the life the Count led at
+Saint Domingo was most agreeable; in the first place he ruled there in
+his quality of governor, saw everybody bend beneath his will, always
+excepting his wife, the only one perhaps he would have cared to reduce.
+He had his flatterers, and played the master and suzerain over all
+who surrounded him; moreover, a thing not to be at all despised, his
+position as governor secured certain imposts that rapidly augmented his
+fortune, which various youthful follies had considerably reduced, and
+he now worked hard, not only to repair the breaches, but to render them
+as if they had never been.
+
+By degrees, however, the Count succeeded in lulling, if not subduing,
+his love; he employed one passion to uproot the other; the care
+of augmenting his fortune made him endure patiently the calculated
+indifference of the Countess. He had almost come himself to believe
+that he only felt for her a frank and sincere friendship; the more
+so because Dona Clara for her part, was charming in everything that
+did not touch on her husband's passion for her; she took an interest,
+or at least pretended to do so, in the commercial speculations which
+the Count did not hesitate to engage in under suppositious names, and
+at times she would give him, with that clear judgment so eminently
+possessed by women whose heart is free, excellent advice on very
+difficult points, by which the Count profited, and naturally took all
+the glory.
+
+Things were in this state when the episode with the filibusters
+occurred, which the Major-domo described to Don Sancho de Penaflor.
+
+This mad struggle of five men against an entire town, a struggle from
+which they emerged victorious, had caused the Count a rage all the
+greater, because the filibusters, on leaving the town, had taken the
+Countess off with them as a hostage. He had then understood how greatly
+he erred, in supposing that his love and jealousy were extinguished.
+During the two hours that the Countess remained absent, the Count
+suffered a horrible torture, the more horrible because the rage he felt
+was impotent, and vengeance impossible, at least for the present.
+
+Hence, from this moment, the Count vowed an implacable hatred against
+the adventurers, and swore to carry on a merciless war against them.
+
+The return of the Countess safe and sound, and treated with the
+greatest respect by the adventurers, during the time she remained in
+their power, calmed the Count's wrath from a marital point of view,
+but the insult he had received in his quality as governor, was too
+grave for him to renounce his vengeance.
+
+From this moment the most formal orders were sent to the leaders of
+corps to redouble their surveillance, and chase the adventurers,
+wherever they met them; fresh Fifties, formed of resolute men, were
+organized, and the few adventurers they contrived to catch, were
+mercilessly hung. Tranquillity was re-established in the colonies, the
+confidence of the colonists, momentarily disturbed, reappeared, and
+everything apparently returned to its accustomed state.
+
+The Countess had expressed a desire to restore her health by a stay
+of several weeks at the hatto del Rincon, and the Count, to whom her
+physician had expressed this wish, found it only very natural; he had
+seen his wife go away with an easy mind, for he was convinced that at
+the spot whither she was going, she would have no danger to fear, and
+felt persuaded in his heart that this condescension on his part, would
+be appreciated by the Countess, and that she would feel thankful to him
+for it.
+
+She had left therefore, only accompanied by a few servants and
+confidential slaves, delighted to escape for some time from the
+restraint she was obliged to impose on herself at Saint Domingo,
+and fostering the bold scheme which we have seen her carry out so
+successfully.
+
+It was about an hour after the departure of Don Sancho de Penaflor,
+to go and join his sister at the hatto; the Count was finishing his
+breakfast, and preparing to retire to the inner boudoir to enjoy his
+siesta, when an usher came into the dining room, and after apologizing
+for disturbing His Excellency at this moment, informed him that a man
+who refused to give his name, but declared that he was well known to
+the governor, insisted on being introduced into his presence, as he had
+most important communications to make to him.
+
+The moment was badly chosen to ask for an audience, as the Count felt
+inclined to sleep; he answered the usher that, however important the
+stranger's communications might be, he did not believe them of such
+importance that he should sacrifice his siesta for them; he therefore
+Sent a message to the effect that the governor would not be at liberty
+till four in the afternoon, and if the stranger liked to return then he
+would be received.
+
+The Count dismissed the usher, and rose, muttering to himself as he
+walked towards the boudoir,--
+
+"_Dios me salve_, if I were to believe all these scamps, I should not
+have a moment's rest."
+
+Whereupon he stretched himself in a large hammock, hung right across
+the room, closed his eyes and fell asleep.
+
+The Count's siesta lasted three hours, and this delay was the cause of
+serious complications.
+
+On waking, Don Stenio quite forgot all about the stranger; it so often
+happened that he was disturbed for nothing by people who declared they
+had urgent matters to discuss with him, that he did not attach the
+slightest importance to their requests for an audience, and the usher's
+words had completely slipped his memory.
+
+At the time when he entered the room where he usually granted his
+audiences, and which at this moment was quite empty, the usher
+presented himself again.
+
+"What do you want?" he asked him.
+
+"Excellency," the usher replied with a respectful bow, "the man has
+returned."
+
+"What man?"
+
+"The man who came this morning."
+
+"Oh yes, well, what does he want?" the Count continued, who did not
+know what all this was about.
+
+"He desires, my lord, that you will do him the honour of receiving him,
+as he states that he has matters of the utmost gravity to tell you."
+
+"Ah, very good, I remember now; it is the same man you announced this
+morning."
+
+"Yes, Excellency, the same."
+
+"And what is his name?"
+
+"He will only tell it to your Excellency."
+
+"Hum! I do not like such precautions, for they never forbode anything
+good; listen, Jose! When he arrives, tell him I never receive people
+who insist on keeping their incognito."
+
+"But he is here, my lord."
+
+"Ah! well then, it will be all the more easy, tell him so at once."
+
+And he turned his back. The usher bowed and left the room, but returned
+almost immediately.
+
+"Well! Have you sent him away?" the Count asked.
+
+"No, my lord, he gave me this card requesting me to hand it your
+Excellency. He declares that, in default of his name, it will be
+sufficient to secure his admission to your presence."
+
+"Oh! Oh!" said the Count, "That is curious, let me see this famous
+talisman."
+
+He took the card from the usher's hand and looked at it absently; but
+all at once he started, frowned and said to the usher,
+
+"Show the man into the yellow room, let him wait for me there, I will
+be with him in a moment. The deuce," he muttered to himself when he was
+alone, "it is a long time since this scoundrel let me hear anything of
+him, I fancied him hung or drowned; he is a clever scamp, can he really
+have any important information to give me? We shall see."
+
+Then, leaving the room in which he was, he hastened to the yellow
+saloon where the man with the card already was.
+
+On seeing the governor, the latter hastily rose, and made him a
+respectful bow.
+
+The Count turned to the valet who had followed him to open the doors.
+
+"I am not at home to anybody," he said; "you can go."
+
+The valet left the room, and shut the door after him.
+
+"Now for us two," the Count said, as he sank into his chair, and
+pointed to another.
+
+"I am awaiting your lordship's orders," the stranger said respectfully.
+
+Don Stenio remained for a moment silent, and scratching his forehead.
+
+"You have been away for a very long time," he said at last, "well, what
+has become of you during the last two months?"
+
+"I have been executing your Excellency's orders," the man answered.
+
+"My orders? I do not remember having given you any."
+
+"Pardon me, my lord, if I venture to remind you of certain facts, which
+appear to have escaped your memory."
+
+"Do so, my good fellow, I shall be delighted at it; still, I would
+remark that my time is valuable, and that others besides yourself are
+awaiting an audience."
+
+"I will be brief, Excellency."
+
+"That is what I wish. Go on,"
+
+"A few days after the affair of the ladrones, does not your Excellency
+remember saying to me in a moment of anger or impatience, that you
+would give ten thousand piastres to obtain positive information about
+the adventurers, their strength, plans, &c.?"
+
+"Yes, I remember saying that; what then?"
+
+"Well, Excellency, I was present when you made that promise. Your
+Excellency had deigned to employ me several times before; as you looked
+at me while speaking, I supposed that you were addressing me, and I
+have acted accordingly."
+
+"That is to say?"
+
+"In my devotion to your Excellency, in spite of the numberless dangers
+I should have to incur, I resolved to go and seek the information you
+appeared to desire so ardently, and--"
+
+"And you went to seek it," the Count exclaimed with an eager start,
+though hitherto he had paid but very slight attention to the stranger's
+remarks.
+
+"Well, yes, Excellency."
+
+"Ah, ah," he said, stroking his chin; "and have you learnt anything?"
+
+"An infinity of things, my lord."
+
+"Well, let me hear some of them. But mind," he added, checking himself,
+"no hearsays or suppositions, for I have my ears stuffed with them."
+
+"The information I shall have the honour of giving your Excellency, is
+derived from a good source, since I went to seek it in the very den of
+the ladrones."
+
+The Count gazed with admiration at this man who had not feared to
+expose himself to so great a danger.
+
+"If such is the case, pray continue, senor."
+
+"My lord," the spy resumed, for we may henceforth give him that name;
+"I come from St. Christopher."
+
+"Ah! Is not that the Island where the bandits take shelter?"
+
+"Yes, my lord, and more than that, I returned in one of their vessels."
+
+"Oh, oh," said the governor, "pray tell me all about it, my dear Don
+Antonio: that is your name, I believe?"
+
+"Yes, my lord; Don Antonio de la Ronda."
+
+"You see," the Count added with a smile; "that I have a good memory
+sometimes," and he laid a stress on these words, which made the spy's
+heart bound with joy.
+
+The latter told him in what way he had entered the island, how he had
+been discovered and made prisoner by Montbarts, who put him on board
+one of his vessels; how a great expedition had been decided on by the
+adventurers against the island of Saint Domingo, in the first place,
+and then against Tortuga, which the ladrones had a plan for surprising,
+and on which they intend to establish themselves; and in what way, on
+reaching Port Margot, he had succeeded in escaping, and had hastened to
+bear the news to his Excellency the governor.
+
+The Count listened with the most serious attention to Don Antonio's
+narrative, and in proportion as it progressed, the governor's brow
+became more anxious; in fact, the spy had not deceived him. The news
+was of the utmost gravity.
+
+"Hum!" he answered; "And is it long since the ladrones arrived at Port
+Margot?"
+
+"Eight days, Excellency."
+
+"_iSangre de Cristo!_ so long as that, and I had not been informed of
+it?"
+
+"In spite of the utmost diligence, as I was constrained to take the
+greatest precaution lest I should fall again into the hands of the
+ladrones, who doubtless started in pursuit of me. I only arrived this
+morning, and came straight to the palace."
+
+The Count bit his lips, several hours had been lost through his fault;
+still he did not notice the indirect reproach addressed to him by the
+spy, for he comprehended all its justice.
+
+"You have fairly earned the ten thousand piastres promised, Don
+Antonio," he said.
+
+The spy gave a start of pleasure.
+
+"Ah, that is not all," he answered, with a meaning smile.
+
+"What else is there?" the Count remarked; "I believed that you had
+nothing further to tell me."
+
+"That depends, Excellency. I have made my official report to the
+Governor-General of Hispaniola, it is true--a very detailed report
+indeed--in which I have forgotten nothing that might help him to defend
+the island entrusted to his care."
+
+"Well?"
+
+"Well, my lord, I have now to give the Count de Bejar, of course, if he
+desire it, certain information which I believe will interest him."
+
+The Count fixed on the man an investigating glance, as if he wished to
+read his very soul.
+
+"The Count de Bejar?" he said with studied coldness; "What can you have
+to say that interests him privately, as a simple gentleman? I have not,
+as far as I am aware, anything to settle with the ladrones."
+
+"Perhaps so, my lord; however, I will only speak, if your Excellency
+orders me, and before doing so, will beg you to forgive anything that
+may seem offensive to your honour in what I may say to you."
+
+The Count turned pale and frowned portentously.
+
+"Take care," he said to him in a threatening voice, "take care lest
+you go beyond your object, and in trying to prove too much, fall into
+the contrary excess. The honour of my name is not to be played with,
+and I will never allow the slightest stain to be imprinted on it."
+
+"I have not the slightest intention to insult your Excellency; my zeal
+on your behalf has alone urged me to speak as I have done."
+
+"Very good--I am willing to believe it; still, as the honour of my name
+regards myself alone, I do not allow any person the right to assail it,
+not even in a good intention."
+
+"I ask your Excellency's pardon, but I have doubtless explained myself
+badly. What I have to tell you relates to a plot, formed, doubtless,
+without her knowledge, against the Countess."
+
+"A plot formed against the Countess!" Don Stenio exclaimed, violently;
+"What do you mean, senor? Explain at once--I insist on it."
+
+"My lord, since it is your wish, I will speak. Is not her ladyship, the
+Countess, at this moment in the vicinity of the small town of San Juan?"
+
+"She is; but how do you know it, since, as you told me you have only
+been back to Saint Domingo for a few hours?"
+
+"I presumed so, because on board the vessel in which I returned to
+Hispaniola, I heard something about an interview which the chief of
+the adventurers was to have in a few days in the neighbourhood of the
+Artibonite."
+
+"Oh!" the Count exclaimed; "You lie, scoundrel!"
+
+"For what object, my lord?" the spy answered, coolly.
+
+"How do I know? through hatred, envy, perhaps."
+
+"I," he said, with a shrug of his shoulders. "Nonsense, my lord. Men
+like me--spies, if things must be called by their proper name--are only
+led away by one passion--that of money."
+
+"But what you tell me is impossible," the Count observed, with
+agitation.
+
+"What prevents you from assuring yourself that I speak the truth, my
+lord?"
+
+"I will do so, _iViva Dios!_" he exclaimed, stamping his foot furiously.
+
+Then he walked up to the spy, who was standing calm and motionless in
+the centre of the room, and fixed on him a glance full of rage, but
+impossible to describe.
+
+"Listen, villain!" he said in a hollow voice, half choked with passion;
+"If you have lied, you shall die!"
+
+"Agreed, my lord," the spy replied, coldly; "but if I have spoken the
+truth?"
+
+"If you have spoken the truth," he exclaimed, but suddenly broke off,
+"but no, it is impossible, I repeat!" and seeing a fugitive smile
+playing round the lips of his companion, he added, "well, be it so; if
+you have spoken the truth, you shall fix your own reward, and whatever
+it may be, on my word as a gentleman, you shall have it."
+
+"Thanks, my lord," he replied, with a bow; "I hold you to your word."
+
+The Count walked several times up and down the saloon, suffering from
+intense agitation, appearing to have completely forgotten the presence
+of the spy, muttering unconnected words, breaking out into passionate
+gestures, and in all probability revolving in his head sinister
+projects of vengeance. At length he stopped and addressed the spy again.
+
+"Withdraw," he said to him, "but do not leave the palace; or, stay,
+wait a moment."
+
+Seizing a bell on the table, he rang it violently.
+
+A valet appeared.
+
+"A corporal and four men," he said.
+
+The spy shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Why all these precautions, my lord?" he asked; "is it not contrary to
+my interest to go away?"
+
+The Count examined him for a moment attentively, and then made the
+valet a sign to withdraw.
+
+"Very good," he then said, "I trust to you, Don Antonio de la Ronda.
+Await my orders, I shall soon have need of you."
+
+"I shall not go away far, my lord."
+
+And after bowing respectfully, he took his leave, and withdrew.
+
+The Count, when left alone, gave way for some minutes to all the
+violence of a rage so long restrained, but he gradually regained his
+coolness and the power of reflection.
+
+"Oh! I will avenge myself!" he exclaimed.
+
+Then he gave, with feverish activity, the necessary orders that
+numerous bodies of troops should be sent off to different points, so as
+to completely invest the hatto del Rincon, to which spot two Fifties
+were sent, commanded by experienced and resolute officers.
+
+These measures taken, the Count, wrapped in a large cloak, mounted his
+horse an hour after sunset, and followed by Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+who had not the slightest desire to leave him, and a few confidential
+officers, he left his palace incognito, rode through the town
+unrecognized, and reached the open country.
+
+"Now, caballeros," he said in a hollow voice, "gallop your hardest,
+and do not be afraid of foundering your horses. Relays are prepared at
+regular distances along the road."
+
+He dug his spurs into the flanks of his horse, which snorted with pain,
+and the party set out with the headlong speed of a whirlwind.
+
+"Ah, Santiago! Santiago;" the Count exclaimed at times while urging on
+his steed, whose efforts were superhuman, "shall I arrive in time?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+PORT MARGOT.
+
+
+We will now return to the filibustering flotilla, which we left sailing
+freely toward the great North Key, a rendezvous admirably selected,
+owing to its proximity to Saint Domingo, and exactly facing the island
+of the Tortoise.
+
+According to their habit, whenever they undertook an expedition, the
+adventurers had only troubled themselves with laying in a stock of
+ammunition, and only took two days' provisions with them, as they
+intended to make descents on the islands which they knew they must
+pass, and pillage the Spanish colonists settled on them. This was
+exactly what happened. The filibusters left behind them a long train of
+fire and blood, murdering, without pity, the defenceless Spaniards, who
+were terrified at the sight of them, seizing on their cattle and firing
+their houses after they had plundered them.
+
+The first vessel to anchor off the Great Key was the lugger with
+Montbarts on board, and commanded by Michael le Basque; on the next day
+the two brigantines arrived, a few hours after one another.
+
+They came to anchor on the right and left of the admiral, about two
+cables' length from the coast.
+
+At this period the Great Key was inhabited by red Caribs, expelled from
+St. Domingo by the cruelty of the Spaniards, and who had taken refuge
+on this island, where they lived rather comfortably, owing to the
+fertility of the soil, and the alliance they had contracted with the
+filibusters.
+
+The three vessels had scarce cast anchor, ere they were surrounded by a
+great number of canoes, manned by Caribs, who brought them refreshments
+of every description.
+
+The same evening the admiral went ashore with the greater part of his
+crew: the other captains imitated him, and only left behind the men
+absolutely necessary to guard the ships.
+
+At a signal from the admiral, the crews arranged themselves in a
+semicircle round him; the captains standing in front of the first line.
+
+Behind them were the Caribs, alarmed in their hearts at this formidable
+landing, whose motive they could not divine, anxiously awaiting what
+was going to happen, and not at all comprehending this display of
+strength.
+
+Montbarts, holding in one hand the staff of a white flag, whose folds
+floated on the breeze above his head, and his long sword in the other,
+looked round at the men gathered before him.
+
+Most of them were scarce clad, but all were well armed. They had
+weather-beaten complexions, vigorous limbs, huge muscles, energetic
+features, and a defiant glance. The adventurers thus collected
+around this man, who stood haughtily in front of them, with his head
+thrown back, quivering lips, and a flashing eye, offered a striking
+spectacle; their savage grandeur and rough gestures were not deficient
+in a certain majesty, which was rendered still more imposing by the
+primitive landscape that formed the background of the picture, and the
+picturesque group of Indians, whose anxious faces and characteristic
+poses added to the effect of the scene.
+
+For some time the rustling of the crowd was audible, like the sound of
+the sea breaking on a beach, but gradually the noise died away, and a
+profound silence fell on all.
+
+Montbarts then advanced a step, and in a firm and sonorous voice, whose
+manly accents soon captivated all these men who listened eagerly to his
+words, he revealed to them the purpose of the expedition, which up to
+this time was unknown to them.
+
+"Brothers of the coast," he said; "messmates and friends, the moment
+has arrived to reveal to you what I await from your courage and your
+devotion to the common cause. You are not mercenaries, who, for scanty
+pay, let themselves be killed like brutes, ignorant for what or from
+whom they are fighting. No! You are picked men, who wish to know to
+what object you are advancing, and what profit you will derive from
+your efforts. Several of our most renowned comrades and myself have
+resolved to attack in the heart of their richest possessions these
+cowardly Spaniards, who believed they dishonoured us by branding us
+with the name of _ladrones_, and whom the merest sight of our smallest
+canoes puts to flight like a flock of startled seagulls. But in order
+that our vengeance may be certain, and that we succeed in seizing the
+wealth of our enemies, we must possess a point sufficiently near the
+centre of our operations, to enable us to rush upon them unawares, and
+so strong that the whole power of Castile may be broken against it in
+impotent efforts. St. Christopher is too remote. Moreover, the descent
+of Admiral Don Fernando of Toledo is a proof to us, that however brave
+we may be, we shall never succeed in fortifying ourselves strongly
+enough there to defy the rage of our enemies. It was, therefore,
+absolutely necessary to find a spot more favourable to our projects,
+a point which could easily be rendered impregnable. Our friends, and
+myself set to work. For a long time we sought with the perseverance
+of men resolved to succeed. Heaven has at length deigned to bless our
+efforts. We have found this refuge under the most fortunate conditions."
+
+Here Montbarts made a pause for several seconds.
+
+An electric quiver ran along the ranks of the adventurers; their eyes
+flashed fire, they grasped their fusils in their powerful hands, as if
+they were impatient to commence the struggle promised them.
+
+A smile of satisfaction illumined for a moment the adventurer's pale
+face. Then, waving his hand to command attention, he resumed;--
+
+"Brethren, before us is Saint Domingo;" and he stretched out his
+hand towards the sea. "Saint Domingo, the loveliest and wealthiest
+of all the isles possessed by Spain. On this island several of our
+brothers, who escaped the massacre of St. Christopher, have established
+themselves, and are contending energetically against the Spaniards, to
+hold the ground wrested from them. Unfortunately too few in number, in
+spite of their bravery, to resist for any length of time the enemy's
+troops, they would soon be forced to quit the island, if we did not
+go to their assistance. They have summoned us. We have responded to
+this appeal of our brothers, whom honour ordered us to succour in
+the hour of danger. While doing a good deed, we are carrying out the
+plan so long resolved by ourselves, and at last we have found the
+impregnable spot we have so long desired. You all know the island
+of Tortuga, brethren? Separated only by a narrow channel from Saint
+Domingo, it rises like an advanced sentry in the middle of the sea. It
+is the eagle's nest, whence we will laughingly brave the fury of the
+Spaniards. To Tortuga, brethren!"
+
+"To the island of the Tortoise!" the adventurers shouted, brandishing
+their weapons enthusiastically.
+
+"Good!" Montbarts continued. "I knew that you were men who would
+understand me, and that I could reckon upon you. Before seizing on
+Tortuga, however, which is only defended by an insignificant garrison
+of twenty soldiers, who will fly at the first blow, we must, by
+protecting our brethren at Saint Domingo, and securing them the
+territory they occupy, obtain for ourselves useful ports, advantageous
+outlets, and, before all, the means of easily injuring the Spaniards,
+and, if it be possible, expelling them entirely from the island, of
+which they have already lost a portion. Tomorrow, we will proceed to
+Port Margot, come to an understanding there with our brethren, and
+arrange our plans, so as to derive both honour and profit from our
+expedition. And now, brethren, let each crew go aboard. Tomorrow, at
+sunrise, we will set sail for Port Margot, and in a few days I promise
+you glorious fights, and a rich booty to divide among you all. Long
+live France, and death to Spain!"
+
+"Long live France! Death to Spain! Long live Montbarts!" the
+adventurers exclaimed.
+
+"Let us embark, brethren," Montbarts added. "Do not forget that the
+poor Indians of this island are our friends, and must be treated as
+such by you."
+
+The adventurers then followed their officers, and embarked in the most
+perfect order.
+
+At sunrise, the squadron raised anchor. We need not say that all the
+refreshments purchased of the Indians were scrupulously paid for, and
+that no one had reason to complain of their stay at the Great Key.
+A few hours later the flotilla entered the channel separating Saint
+Domingo from Tortuga, and anchored off Port Margot.
+
+The Spanish island lay before them with its large mounds, tall cliffs,
+and its mountains, whose peaks seemed hidden in the clouds, while on
+the starboard, Tortuga, with its dense, verdant forests, seemed a
+basket of flowers rising from the bottom of the sea.
+
+They had scarce landed ere a canoe, manned by four men, hailed the
+lugger. These four men were Lepoletais, whom we have already caught a
+glimpse of; one of his apprentices, L'Olonnais, and Omopoua, the Carib
+chief.
+
+The Indian had nearly got rid of the European dress, and resumed that
+of his nation.
+
+Montbarts went to meet his visitors, saluted them, and led them down to
+the cabin.
+
+"You are welcome," he said to them. "In a few minutes the other
+leaders of the expedition will be here, and then we will talk. In the
+meanwhile, take some refreshment."
+
+And he gave an engage orders to bring in spirits.
+
+Lepoletais and Omopoua sat down without pressing, but L'Olonnais
+remained modestly standing. In his quality of apprentice he dared not
+place himself on a footing of equality with the adventurers. At this
+moment Michael the Basque entered the cabin.
+
+"Messmate," he said to Montbarts, "Captain Drake and David have just
+come aboard. They are waiting on deck."
+
+"Tell them to come below. I want to talk with them.".
+
+Michael went out. A few minutes after, he returned, accompanied by the
+two captains.
+
+After the first compliments, the two officers drank a bumper, then
+took their seats, and awaited the communication which their chief was
+evidently about to make to them.
+
+Montbarts knew the value of time, hence he did not put their patience
+to a long trial.
+
+"Brothers," he said, "I present to you Lepoletais, whom you doubtless
+know already by reputation."
+
+The adventurers bowed smilingly, and spontaneously offered their hand
+to the buccaneer.
+
+The latter cordially returned the pressure, delighted in his heart at
+so frank a reception.
+
+"Lepoletais," Montbarts continued, "is sent to me as a delegate by our
+brethren, the buccaneers of Port Margot and Port de Paix; I prefer to
+let him himself explain what he expects from us--in this manner we
+shall more easily arrive at an understanding. Speak, then, I pray,
+brother, we are listening."
+
+Lepoletais first poured out a glass of rum, which he swallowed at a
+draught, no doubt for the purpose of clearing his ideas; then, after
+two or three sonorous "hums!" he resolved to speak.
+
+"Brethren," he said, "whatever be the name given us--filibusters,
+buccaneers, or habitants--our origin is the same, is it not? And we are
+all adventurers. Hence, we are bound to assist and protect one another,
+like the free companions we are; but, in order that this protection may
+be efficient--that nothing may weaken in the future the alliance we
+contract today--we must, like yourselves, find some real profit in the
+alliance. Is not this the case?"
+
+"Certainly," Michael said, to encourage him.
+
+"This, then, is what is happening," Lepoletais continued; "we
+buccaneers and habitants are here something like the bird on the
+tree, continually pursued by the gavachos, who track us like wild
+beasts, wherever they surprise us, sustaining an unequal contest, in
+which we must eventually succumb, not knowing today if we shall be
+alive tomorrow, and gradually losing all the ground which we gained
+at the outset. This deplorable state of things could not go on much
+longer without entailing a catastrophe, which, with your aid, we hope
+not only to avert, but to prevent definitively; by seizing Tortuga,
+which is badly guarded, and will be badly defended, you procure us
+a sure shelter in case of danger, an ever open refuge in the event
+of a crisis. But this is not all; we must secure frontiers, so that
+tranquillity may prevail in our country, that merchant vessels may
+not fear to enter our ports, and that we may find an outlet for our
+hides, our boucaned meat, and our tallow. These frontiers can be easily
+secured; the only thing wanting is to seize on two points, one in the
+interior, which the Spaniards call the Great Savannah of San Juan, and
+which we have christened the Grand Fond. The town of San Juan is but
+poorly fortified, and merely inhabited by mulattos, or men of mixed
+blood, whom we could easily conquer."
+
+"Is not the Grand Fond, as you call it, traversed by the Artibonite?"
+Montbarts asked, while exchanging a meaning glance with L'Olonnais, who
+was standing by his side.
+
+"Yes," Lepoletais replied; "and in the centre is a hatto called the
+Rincon, belonging, I believe, to the Spanish Governor."
+
+"It would be a master stroke to seize that man," Michael the Basque
+observed.
+
+"Yes, but there is little probability of succeeding in capturing him,
+for he is at Saint Domingo," Lepoletais replied.
+
+"It is possible; but go on."
+
+"The other point is a port called Leogane, or, as the Spaniards term
+it, _la Iguana_, or the Lizard, from the shape of the tongue of land on
+which it is built; the possession of this port would render us masters
+of the whole western part of the island, and allow us to establish
+ourselves there securely."
+
+"Is Leogane defended?" David inquired.
+
+"No," Lepoletais answered, "the Spaniards let it fall into ruins, as
+they do, indeed, with nearly all the points they occupy; through the
+want of labourers, since the almost utter extinction of the Indian
+race of the island, they gradually abandon the old establishments, and
+retire to the East."
+
+"Very good," said Montbarts; "is that all you desire?"
+
+"Yes, all," Lepoletais answered.
+
+"Now, what do you propose, brother?"
+
+"This: we buccaneers will hunt for you wild oxen and boars, and
+provision your ships at a price agreed on between us, but which must
+never be higher than one-half the price we ask of foreign vessels that
+come to trade with us; in addition, we will defend you if attacked, and
+in great expeditions you will have the right to claim one man in five
+to accompany you, when you require it. The habitants will cultivate
+the land, and supply you with vegetables, tobacco, and wood to repair
+your vessels, on the same conditions as the provisions. This is what
+I am ordered to propose to you, brothers, in the name of the French
+habitants and buccaneers of Saint Domingo; if these conditions please
+you, and I consider them just and equitable, accept them, and you will
+have no cause to repent having negotiated with us."
+
+These propositions the filibusters were already acquainted with,
+and had discussed their advantages; hence they did not take long
+to deliberate, for they had made up their mind beforehand, as their
+presence at Port Margot proved.
+
+"We accept your propositions, brother," Montbarts answered--"here is my
+hand, in the name of the filibusters I represent."
+
+"And here is mine," Lepoletais said, "in the name of the habitants and
+buccaneers."
+
+There was no other treaty but this honest shake of the hand between
+the adventurers; thus was concluded an alliance, which remained up to
+the dying day of buccaneering, as fresh and lively as when first made
+between the adventurers.
+
+"Now," Montbarts continued, "let us proceed orderly. How many brothers
+have you capable of fighting?"
+
+"Seventy," Lepoletais answered.
+
+"Very good; we will add to these one hundred and thirty more from the
+fleet, which will give us an effective strength of two hundred good
+fusils. And you, Chief, what can you do for us?"
+
+Up to this moment Omopoua had remained silent, listening to what was
+said with Indian gravity and decorum, and patiently waiting till his
+turn to speak arrived.
+
+"Omopoua will add two hundred Carib warriors, with long fusils, to the
+palefaces," he replied; "his sons are warned; they await the order of
+the Chief--L'Olonnais has seen them."
+
+"Good! These four hundred men will be commanded by myself; as this
+expedition is the most difficult and dangerous, I will undertake it.
+Michel le Basque will accompany me. I have aboard a guide, who will
+conduct us to Grand Fond. You, Drake, and you, David, will attack
+Leogane with your ships, while Bowline, with only fifteen men, will
+seize on Tortuga. Let us combine our movements, brothers, so that our
+three attacks may be simultaneous, and the Spaniards, surprised on
+three points at once, may not be able to assist one another. Tomorrow
+you will sail, gentlemen, taking with you one hundred and eighty-five
+men, more than sufficient, I believe, to capture Leogane. As for you,
+Bowline, you will keep the lugger with the fifteen men left you, and
+remain here, while watching Tortuga closely. This is the fifth of the
+month, brothers; on the fifteenth we will attack, as ten days will be
+sufficient for all of us to reach our posts, and take all the necessary
+measures. Now, gentlemen, return aboard your vessels, and send ashore,
+under orders of their officers, the contingents I intend to take with
+me."
+
+The two Captains bowed to the Admiral, left the cabin, and returned to
+their ships.
+
+"As for you," Montbarts added, turning to Lepoletais, "this is what
+you will do, brother. You will go with Omopoua to the Grand Fond, as
+if hunting, but you will carefully watch the town of San Juan, and the
+hatto del Rincon; we must, if possible, make sure of the inhabitants
+of that hatto; they are rich and influential, and their capture may be
+of considerable importance to us. You will arrange with Omopoua on the
+subject of the allies he promises to bring us; perhaps it will be as
+well for the Chief to try and lead the Spaniards on to his track, and
+force them to quit their positions: by managing cleverly we might then
+be able to defeat them in detail. Have you understood me, brother?"
+
+"Zounds!" Lepoletais answered, "I should be an ass if I did not. All
+right! I will manoeuvre as you wish."
+
+Montbarts then turned to the engage, and made him a sign.
+
+L'Olonnais drew nearer.
+
+"Go ashore with the Carib and Lepoletais," the Admiral whispered in his
+ear--"look at everything, hear everything, watch everything; in an hour
+you will receive through Bowline a letter, which you must deliver into
+the hands of Dona Clara de Bejar, who resides in the hatto on the Grand
+Fond."
+
+"That is easy," L'Olonnais answered, "if it must be, I will hand it to
+her in the midst of all her servants, in the hatto itself."
+
+"Do nothing of the sort; arrange it so that she must come and fetch the
+letter."
+
+"Hang it! That is more difficult! Still, I will try to succeed."
+
+"You must succeed!"
+
+"Ah! In that case, on the word of a man, you may reckon on it--though,
+hang me if I know how I shall manage it!"
+
+Lepoletais had risen.
+
+"Farewell, brother," he said; "when you land tomorrow I shall be on my
+way to the Grand Fond; I shall, therefore, not see you again till we
+meet there; but do not be alarmed--you shall find everything in order
+when you arrive. Ah! By the way, shall I take my body of buccaneers
+with me?"
+
+"Certainly; they will be of the greatest use to you in watching the
+enemy; but hide them carefully."
+
+"All right," he said.
+
+At this moment Michael the Basque rushed suddenly into the cabin, with
+his features distorted by passion.
+
+"What is the matter, messmate? Come, recover yourself," Montbarts said
+coolly to him.
+
+"A great misfortune has happened to us," Michael exclaimed, as he
+passionately pulled out a handful of hair.
+
+"What is it? Come, speak like a man, messmate."
+
+"That villain, Antonio de la Ronda--"
+
+"Well?" Montbarts interrupted, with a nervous tremor.
+
+"He has escaped!"
+
+"Malediction!"
+
+"Ten men have set out in pursuit."
+
+"Stuff! It is all up now; they will not catch him. What is to be done?"
+
+"What has happened?" Lepoletais asked.
+
+"Our guide has escaped."
+
+"Is it only that? I promise to find you another."
+
+"Yes, but this one is probably the cleverest spy the Spaniards possess;
+he knows enough of our secrets to make our expedition fail."
+
+"Heaven preserve us from it! Stuff!" the buccaneer added,
+carelessly--"Think no more about it, brother; what is done is done--let
+us go ahead all the same."
+
+And he left the cabin, apparently quite unaffected by the news.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+FRAY ARSENIO.
+
+
+Let us now tell the reader who these buccaneers were of whom we have
+several times spoken, and what was the origin of the name given them,
+and which they gave themselves.
+
+The red Caribs of the Antilles were accustomed, when they made
+prisoners in the obstinate contests they waged with each other, or
+which they carried on against the whites, to cut their prisoners into
+small pieces, and lay them upon a species of small hurdles, under which
+they lit a fire.
+
+These hurdles were called _barbacoas_, the spot where they were set up
+_boucans_, and the operation _boucaning_, to signify at the same time
+roasting and smoking.
+
+It was from this that the French boucaniers (anglicised into
+buccaneers) derived their name, with this difference, that they did to
+animals what the others did to men.
+
+The first buccaneers were Spanish settlers on the Caribbean islands,
+who lived on intimate terms with the Indians; hence when they turned
+their attention to the chase, they accustomed themselves without
+reflection to employ these Indian terms, which were certainly
+characteristic, and for which it would have been difficult to
+substitute any others.
+
+The buccaneers carried on no other trade but hunting; they were divided
+into two classes, the first only hunting oxen to get their hides, the
+second killing boars, whose flesh they salted and sold to the planters.
+
+These two varieties of buccaneers were accoutred nearly in the same
+way, and had the same mode of life.
+
+The real buccaneers were those who pursued oxen, and they never called
+the others by any name but hunters.
+
+Their equipage consisted of a pack of twenty-four dogs, among which
+were two bloodhounds, whose duty it was to discover the animal; the
+price of these dogs, settled among themselves, was thirty livres.
+
+As we have said, their weapon was a long fusil, manufactured at Dieppe
+or Nantes; they always hunted together, two at the least, but sometimes
+more, and then everything was in common between them. As we advance in
+the history of these singular men, we shall enter into fuller details
+about their mode of life and strange habits.
+
+When Don Sancho and the Major-domo left them, Lepoletais and L'Olonnais
+had for a long time looked with a mocking glance after the two
+Spaniards, and then went on building their ajoupa and preparing their
+boucan, as if nothing had happened. So soon as the boucan was arranged,
+the fire lit, and the meat laid on the barbacoas, L'Olonnais set about
+curing the hide he had brought with him, while Lepoletais did the same
+to that of the bull which he had killed an hour previously.
+
+He stretched the hide out on the ground, with the hairy side up,
+fastened it down by sixty-four pegs, driven into the earth, and then
+rubbed it vigorously with a mixture of ashes and salt, to make it dry
+more quickly.
+
+This duly accomplished, he turned his attention to supper, the
+preparations for which were neither long nor complicated. A piece of
+meat had been placed in a small cauldron, with water and salt, and soon
+boiled; L'Olonnais drew it out by means of a long pointed stick, and
+laid it on a palm leaf in lieu of a dish; then he collected the grease
+with a wooden spoon, and threw it into a calabash. Into this grease
+he squeezed the juice of a lemon, added a little pimento, stirred
+it all up, and the sauce, the famous _pimentado_, so liked by the
+buccaneers, was ready. Placing the meat in a pleasant spot in front
+of the ajoupa, with the calabash by its side, he called Lepoletais,
+and the men sitting down facing each other, armed themselves with
+their knife and a wooden spit instead of a fork, and began eating
+with a good appetite, carefully dipping each mouthful of meat in the
+pimentado, and surrounded by their dogs, which, though not daring to
+ask for anything, fixed greedy glances on the provisions spread out
+before them, and followed with eager eyes every morsel swallowed by the
+adventurers.
+
+They had been eating this in silence for some time, when the
+bloodhounds raised their heads, inhaling the air restlessly, and then
+gave several hoarse growls; almost immediately the whole pack began
+barking furiously.
+
+"Eh, eh!" Lepoletais said, after drinking a mouthful of brandy and
+water, and handing the gourd to the engage, "What is the meaning of
+this?"
+
+"Some traveller, no doubt," L'Olonnais answered carelessly.
+
+"At this hour," the buccaneer went on, as he raised his eyes to the
+sky, and consulted the stars, "why hang it all, it is past eight
+o'clock at night."
+
+"Zounds! I do not know what it is. But stay, I do not know whether I am
+mistaken, for I fancy I can hear a horse galloping."
+
+"It is really true, my son, you are not mistaken," the buccaneer
+continued, "it is indeed a horse; come, quiet, you devils," he shouted,
+addressing the dogs, which had redoubled their barking, and seemed
+ready to rush forward, "quiet, lie down, you ruffians."
+
+The dogs, doubtless accustomed for a long time to obey the imperious
+accents of this voice, immediately resumed their places, and ceased
+their deafening clamour, although they still continued to growl dully.
+
+In the meanwhile the galloping horses which the dogs had heard a great
+distance off, rapidly drew nearer; it soon became perfectly distinct,
+and at the end of a few minutes a horseman emerged from the forest, and
+became visible, although owing to the darkness it was not yet possible
+to see who this man might be.
+
+On turning into the savannah, he stopped his horse, seemed to look
+around him, with an air of indecision, for some minutes, then,
+loosening the rein again, he came up toward the boucan at a sharp trot.
+
+On reaching the two men, who continued their supper quietly, while
+keeping an eye on him, he bowed, and addressed them in Spanish--
+
+"Worthy friends," he said to them, "whoever you may be, I ask you,
+in the name of the Lord, to grant a traveller, who has lost his way,
+hospitality for this night."
+
+"Here is fire, and here is meat," the buccaneer replied, laconically,
+in the same language the traveller had employed; "rest yourself, and
+eat."
+
+"I thank you," he said.
+
+He dismounted: in the movement he made to leave the saddle, his cloak
+flew open, and the buccaneers perceived that the man was dressed in
+a religious garb. This discovery surprised them, though they did not
+allow it to be seen.
+
+On his side the stranger gave a start of terror, which was immediately
+suppressed, on perceiving that in his precipitation to seek a shelter
+for the night, he had come upon a boucan of French adventurers.
+
+The latter, however, had made him a place by their side, and while he
+was hobbling his horse, and removing its bridle, so that it might graze
+on the tall close grass of the savannah, they had placed for him, on a
+palm leaf, a lump of meat sufficient to still the appetite of a man who
+had been fasting for four and twenty hours.
+
+Somewhat reassured by the cordial manner of the adventurers, and, in
+his impossibility to do otherwise, bravely resolving to accept the
+awkward situation in which his awkwardness had placed him, the stranger
+sat down between his two hosts, and began to eat, while reflecting on
+the means of escaping from the difficult position in which he found
+himself.
+
+The adventurers, who had almost completed their meal before his
+arrival, left off eating long before him; they gave their dogs the food
+they had been expecting with so much impatience, then lit their pipes,
+and began smoking, paying no further attention to their guest beyond
+handing him the things he required.
+
+At length the stranger wiped his mouth, and, in order to prove to his
+hosts that he was quite as much at his ease as they, he produced a leaf
+of paper and tobacco, delicately rolled a cigarette, lit it, and smoked
+apparently as calmly as themselves.
+
+"I thank you for your generous hospitality, senores," he said,
+presently, understanding that along silence might be interpreted to his
+disadvantage, "I had a great necessity to recruit my strength, for I
+have been fasting since the morning."
+
+"That is very imprudent, senor," Lepoletais answered, "to embark thus
+without any biscuit, as we sailors say; the savannah is somewhat like
+the sea, you know when you start on it, but you never know when you
+will leave it again."
+
+"What you say is perfectly true, senor; had it not been for you, I am
+afraid I should have passed a very bad night."
+
+"Pray say no more about that, senor; we have only done for you what we
+should wish to be done for us under similar circumstances. Hospitality
+is a sacred duty, which no one has a right to avoid: besides, you are a
+palpable proof of it."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"Why, you are a Spaniard, if I am not mistaken, while we, on the
+contrary, are French. Well, we forget for the moment our hatred of your
+nation, to welcome you at our fireside, as every guest sent by Heaven
+has the right to be received."
+
+"That is true, senor, and I thank you doubly, be assured."
+
+"Good Heavens!" the buccaneer replied, "I assure you that you act
+wrongly in dwelling so much on this subject. What we are doing at this
+moment is as much for you as in behalf of our honour, hence I beg you,
+senor, not to say any more about it, for it is really not worth the
+trouble."
+
+"Bless me, senor," L'Olonnais said with a laugh, "why, we are old
+acquaintances, though you little suspect it, I fancy."
+
+"Old acquaintances!" the stranger exclaimed, in surprise; "I do not
+understand you, senor."
+
+"And yet what I am saying is very clear."
+
+"If you would deign to explain," the stranger replied, completely
+thrown on his beam ends, as Lepoletais would have said, "perhaps I
+shall understand, which, I assure you, will cause me great pleasure."
+
+"I wish for nothing better than to explain myself, senor," L'Olonnais
+said, with a bantering air; "and in the first place, permit me to
+observe, that, though your cloak is so carefully buttoned, it is not
+sufficiently so to conceal the Franciscan garb you wear under it."
+
+"I am indeed a monk of that order," the stranger answered, rather
+disconcerted; "but that does not prove that you know me."
+
+"Granted, but I am certain that I shall bring back your recollection by
+a single word."
+
+"I fancy you are mistaken, my dear senor, and that we never saw each
+other before."
+
+"Are you quite sure of that?"
+
+"Man, as you are aware, can never be sure of anything; still, it seems
+to me--"
+
+"And yet, it is so long since we met; it is true that you possibly did
+not pay any great attention to me."
+
+"On my honour, I know not what you mean," the monk remarked after
+attentively examining him for a minute or two.
+
+"Come," the engage said with a laugh, "I will take pity on your
+embarrassment; and, as I promised you, dissipate all your doubts by a
+single word; we saw each other on the island of Nevis. Do you remember
+me?"
+
+At this revelation, the monk turned pale; he lost countenance, and for
+some minutes remained as if petrified; still the thought of denying the
+truth did not come to him for a second.
+
+"Where," L'Olonnais added, "you had a long conversation with Montbarts."
+
+"Still," the monk said with a hesitation that was not exempt from
+terror, "I do not understand--"
+
+"How I knew everything," L'Olonnais interrupted him laughingly, "then,
+you have not got to the end of your astonishment."
+
+"What, I am not at the end?"
+
+"Bah, Senor Padre, do you fancy that I should have taken the trouble to
+bother you about such a trifle? I know a good deal more."
+
+"What do you say?" the monk exclaimed, recoiling instinctively from
+this man whom he was not indisposed to regard as a sorcerer, the more
+so because he was a Frenchman, and a buccaneer to boot, two peremptory
+reasons why Satan should nearly be master of his soul, if by chance he
+possessed one, which the worthy monk greatly doubted.
+
+"Zounds!" the engage resumed, "You suppose, I think, that I do not know
+the motive of your journey, the spot where you have come from, where
+you are going, and more than that, the person you are about to see."
+
+"Oh, come, that is impossible," the monk said with a startled look.
+
+Lepoletais laughed inwardly at the ill-disguised terror of the Spaniard.
+
+"Take care, father," he whispered mysteriously in Fray Arsenio's ear,
+"that man knows everything; between ourselves, I believe him to be
+possessed by the demon."
+
+"Oh!" he exclaimed, rising hastily and crossing himself repeatedly,
+which caused the adventurers a still heartier laugh.
+
+"Come, resume your seat and listen to me," L'Olonnais continued as he
+seized him by the arm, and obliged him to sit down again, "my friend
+and I are only joking."
+
+"Excuse me, noble caballeros," the monk stammered, "I am in an
+extraordinary hurry, and must leave you at once, though most
+reluctantly."
+
+"Nonsense! Where could you go alone at this hour? Fall into a bog. Eh?"
+
+This far from pleasant prospect caused the monk to reflect; still, the
+terror he felt was the stronger.
+
+"No matter," he said, "I must be gone."
+
+"Nonsense, you will never find your road to the hatto del Rincon in
+this darkness."
+
+This time the monk was fairly conquered, this new revelation literally
+benumbed him, he fancied himself suffering from a terrible nightmare,
+and did not attempt to continue an impossible struggle.
+
+"There," the engage resumed, "now, you are reasonable; rest yourself,
+I will not torment you any more, and in order to prove to you that I am
+not so wicked as you suppose me, I undertake to find you a guide."
+
+"A guide," Fray Arsenio stammered, "Heaven guard me from accepting one
+at your hand."
+
+"Reassure yourself, senor Padre, it will not be a demon, though he may
+possibly have some moral and physical resemblance with the evil spirit;
+the guide I refer to is very simply a Carib."
+
+"Ah!" said the monk drawing a deep breath, as if a heavy weight had
+been removed from his chest, "If he is really a Carib."
+
+"Zounds! Who the deuce would you have it be?" Fray Arsenio crossed
+himself devoutly.
+
+"Excuse me," he said, "I did not wish to insult you."
+
+"Come, come, have patience, I will go myself and fetch the promised
+guide, for I see that you are really in a hurry to part company."
+
+L'Olonnais rose, took his fusil, whistled to a bloodhound, and went off
+at a rapid pace.
+
+"You will now be able," said Lepoletais, "to continue your journey
+without fear of going astray."
+
+"Has that worthy caballero really gone to fetch me a guide, as
+he promised?" Fray Arsenio asked, who did not dare to place full
+confidence in the engage's word.
+
+"Hang it! I know no other reason why he should leave the boucan."
+
+"Then you are really a buccaneer, senor?"
+
+"At your service, padre."
+
+"Ah, ah! And do you often come to these parts?"
+
+"Deuce take me if I do not believe you are questioning me, monk,"
+Lepoletais said with a frown, and looking him in the face; "how does
+it concern you whether I come here or not?"
+
+"Me? Not at all."
+
+"That is true, but it may concern others, may it not? And you would not
+be sorry to know the truth."
+
+"Oh? can you suppose such a thing?" Fray Arsenio hastily said.
+
+"I do not suppose, by Heaven, I know exactly what I am saying,
+but, believe me, senor monk, you had better give up this habit of
+questioning, especially with buccaneers, people who through their
+character, do not like questions, or else you might some day run the
+risk of being played an ugly trick. It is only a simple piece of advice
+I venture to give you."
+
+"Thank you, senor, I will bear it in mind, though in saying what I did,
+I had not the intention you suppose."
+
+"All the better, but still profit by my hint."
+
+Thus rebuffed, the monk shut himself up in a timid silence; and in
+order to give a turn to his thoughts which, we are bound to say, were
+anything but rosy colored at this moment, he took up the rosary hanging
+from his girdle, and began muttering prayers in a low voice.
+
+Nearly an hour passed then without a word being exchanged between the
+two men; Lepoletais cut up tobacco, while humming a tune, and the monk
+prayed, or seemed to be doing so.
+
+At length a slight noise was heard a short distance off, and a few
+minutes later the engage appeared, followed by an Indian, who was no
+other than Omopoua, the Carib chief.
+
+"Quick, quick, senor monk," L'Olonnais said gaily; "here is your guide,
+I answer for his fidelity; he will lead you in safety within two gun
+shots of the hatto."
+
+The monk did not let the invitation be repeated, for anything seemed
+to him preferable to remaining any longer in the company of these two
+reprobates; besides, he thought that he had nothing to fear from an
+Indian.
+
+He rose at one bound, and bridled his horse again, which had made an
+excellent supper, and had had all the time necessary to rest.
+
+"Senores," he said, so soon as he was in the saddle, "I thank you for
+your generous hospitality, may the blessing of the Lord be upon you!"
+
+"Thanks," the engage replied with a laugh, "but one last hint before
+parting; on arriving at the hatto, do not forget to tell Dona Clara
+from me, that I shall expect her here tomorrow; do you hear?"
+
+The monk uttered a cry of terror; without replying, he dug his spurs
+into his horse's flanks, and set off at a gallop, in the direction
+where the Carib was already going, with that quick, elastic step, with
+which a horse has a difficulty in keeping up.
+
+The two buccaneers watched his flight with a hearty laugh, then,
+stretching out their feet to the fire, and laying their weapons within
+reach, they prepared to sleep, guarded by their dogs, vigilant sentries
+that would not let them be surprised.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+THE CONSEQUENCES OF A MEETING.
+
+
+Fray Arsenio followed his silent guide delightedly, although he was
+surrendered into the hands of an Indian, who must instinctively hate
+the Spaniards, those ferocious oppressors of his decimated and almost
+destroyed race. Still, the monk was glad at having escaped safe and
+sound from the clutches of the adventurers, whom he feared not only as
+ladrones, that is to say, men without faith and steeped in vice, but
+also as demons, or at the least sorcerers in regular connection with
+Satan, for such were the erroneous ideas which the most enlightened of
+the Spaniards entertained about the filibusters and buccaneers.
+
+It had needed all the devotion which the monk professed for Dona Clara,
+and all the ascendancy that charming woman possessed over those who
+approached her, to make him consent to execute a plan so mad in his
+opinion, as that of entering into direct relation with one of the most
+renowned chiefs of the filibusters, and it was with a great tremor that
+he had accompanied his penitent to Nevis.
+
+When we met him, he was proceeding to the hatto, to inform Dona Clara,
+as had been arranged between them, of the arrival of the filibustering
+squadron at Port Margot, and consequently of Montbart's presence in the
+island of Saint Domingo.
+
+Unfortunately the monk, but little used to night journeys, across
+untrodden roads which he must guess at every step, lost himself on the
+savannah; overcome with terror, almost dead with hunger, and worn out
+by fatigue, the monk had seen the light of a fire flashing a short
+distance off; the sight of this had restored him hope, if not courage,
+and he had consequently ridden as fast as he could toward the fire, and
+tumbled headlong into a boucan of French adventurers.
+
+In doing this, he unconsciously followed the example of the silly moth,
+which feels itself irresistibly attracted to the candle in which it
+singes its wings.
+
+More fortunate than these insects, the monk had burned nothing at
+all; he had rested, eaten and drunk well, and, apart from a very
+honest terror at finding himself so unexpectedly in such company, he
+had escaped pretty well, or at least he supposed so, from this great
+danger, and had even succeeded in obtaining a guide. Everything, then,
+was for the best, the Lord had not ceased to watch over His servant,
+and the latter only needed to let himself be guarded by Him. Moreover
+the monk's confidence was augmented by the taciturn carelessness of his
+guide who, without uttering a syllable, or even appearing to trouble
+himself about him the least in the world, walked in front of his
+horse, crossing the savannah obliquely, making a way through the tall
+grass, and seemed to direct himself as surely amid the darkness that
+surrounded him, as if he had been lit by the dazzling sunbeams.
+
+They went on thus for a long time following each other without the
+interchange of a word; like all the Spaniards, Fray Arsenio professed
+a profound contempt for the Indians, and it was much against his will
+that he ever entered into relations with them. For his part, the Carib
+was not at all anxious to carry on with this man, whom he regarded as a
+born foe of his race, a conversation which could only be an unimportant
+gossip.
+
+They had reached the top of a small hill, from which could be seen
+gleaming in the distance, like so many luminous dots, the watch fires
+of the soldiers encamped round the hatto, when all at once, instead
+of descending the hill and continuing his advance, Omopoua stopped,
+and looked round him anxiously, while strongly inhaling the air, and
+ordering the Spaniard by a wave of his hand to halt.
+
+The latter obeyed and remained motionless as an equestrian statue,
+while observing with a curiosity blended with a certain amount of
+discomfort, the manoeuvres of his guide.
+
+The Carib had laid himself down and was listening with his ear to the
+ground.
+
+At the end of a few minutes he rose again, though he did not cease
+listening.
+
+"What is the matter?" the monk, whom this conduct was beginning
+seriously to alarm, asked.
+
+"Horsemen are coming towards us at full speed."
+
+"Horsemen at this hour of night on the savannah?" Fray Arsenio remarked
+incredulously; "It is impossible."
+
+"Why, you are here?" the Indian said with a jeering smile.
+
+"Hum! That is true," the monk muttered, struck by the logic of the
+answer; "who can they be!"
+
+"I do not know, but I will soon tell you," the Carib answered.
+
+And before the monk had the time to ask him what his scheme was,
+Omopoua glided through the tall grass and disappeared, leaving Fray
+Arsenio greatly disconcerted at this sudden flight, and extremely
+annoyed at finding himself thus left alone in the middle of the desert.
+
+A few minutes elapsed, during which the monk tried, though in vain, to
+hear the sound which the Indian's sharp sense of hearing had caused him
+to catch long before, amid the confused rumours of the savannah.
+
+The monk, believing himself decidedly deserted by his guide, was
+preparing to continue his journey, leaving to Providence the care of
+bringing him safely into port, when he heard a slight rustling in the
+bushes close to him, and the Indian reappeared.
+
+"I have seen them," he said.
+
+"Ah!" the monk replied; "And who are they?"
+
+"White men like you."
+
+"Spaniards in that case?"
+
+"Yes, Spaniards."
+
+"All the better," Fray Arsenio continued, whom the good news completely
+reassured; "are they numerous?"
+
+"Five or six at least; they are proceeding like yourself, towards the
+hatto, where, as far as I could understand, they are very eager to
+arrive."
+
+"That is famous; where are they at this moment?"
+
+"Two stones' throw at the most. According to the direction they are
+following, they will pass the spot where you are now standing."
+
+"Better still. In that case we have only to wait."
+
+"You can do so, if you think proper; but I have no wish to meet them."
+
+"That is true, my friend," the monk remarked, with a paternal air. "And
+possibly such a meeting would not be agreeable to you; so pray accept
+my thanks for the manner in which you have guided me hitherto."
+
+"You are quite resolved on waiting for them, then? If you like, I can
+enable you to avoid them."
+
+"I have no motive for concealing myself from men of my own colour.
+Whoever they may be, I feel sure that I shall find friends in them."
+
+"Very good. Your affairs concern yourself, and I have nothing to do
+with them. But the sound is drawing nearer, and as they will speedily
+arrive, I will leave you, for it is unnecessary for them to find me
+here."
+
+"Farewell."
+
+"One last recommendation: if by chance they had a fancy to ask who
+served as your guide, do not tell them."
+
+"It is not at all probable they will ask this."
+
+"No matter. Promise me, if they do, to keep my secret."
+
+"Very good. I will be silent, since you wish it; although I do not
+understand the motive for such a recommendation."
+
+The monk had not finished the sentence, ere the Indian disappeared.
+
+The horsemen were rapidly approaching. The galloping of their steeds
+echoed on the ground like the rolling of thunder. Suddenly several
+shadows, scarcely distinguishable in the obscurity, rose as it were in
+the midst of the darkness, and a sharp voice shouted--
+
+"Who goes there?"
+
+"A friend!" the monk answered.
+
+"Tell your name, _isangre de Dios!_" the voice repeated, passionately,
+while the dry snap of a pistol being cocked, sounded disagreeably in
+the monk's ears. "At night there are friends in the desert!"
+
+"I am a poor Franciscan monk, proceeding to the hatto del Rincon; and
+my name is Fray Arsenio Mendoza."
+
+A hoarse cry replied to the monk's words--a cry whose meaning he had
+not the time to conjecture; that is to say, whether it was the result
+of pleasure or anger; for the horsemen came up with him like lightning,
+and surrounded him even before he could understand the reason of such a
+headlong speed to reach him.
+
+"Why, senores," he exclaimed, in a voice trembling with emotion, "what
+is the meaning of this? Have I to do with the _ladrones?_"
+
+"Good! Good! Calm yourself, Senor Padre," a rough voice answered, which
+he fancied he recognised. "We are not _ladrones_, but Spaniards like
+yourself; and nothing could cause us more pleasure than meeting you at
+this moment."
+
+"I am delighted at what you say to me, caballero. I confess that
+at first the suddenness of your movements alarmed me; but now I am
+completely reassured."
+
+"All the better," the stranger replied, ironically; "for I want to talk
+with you."
+
+"Talk with me, senor?" he said, with surprise.
+
+"The spot and the hour are badly chosen for an interview, I fancy. If
+you will wait till we reach the hatto, I will place myself at your
+disposal."
+
+"Enough talking. Get off your horse," the stranger observed, roughly;
+"unless you wish me to drag you off."
+
+The monk took a startled glance around him, but the horsemen looked at
+him savagely, and did not appear disposed to come to his help.
+
+Fray Arsenio, through profession and temperament, was quite the
+opposite of a brave man. The way in which the adventure began was
+commencing seriously to alarm him. He did not yet know into what
+hands he had fallen, but everything led him to suppose that these
+individuals, whoever they might be, were not actuated by kindly
+feelings towards him. Still any resistance was impossible, and he
+resigned himself to obey; but it was not without a sigh of regret,
+intended for the Carib, whose judicious advice he had spurned, that he
+at length got off his horse, and placed himself in front of his stern
+questioner.
+
+"Light a torch!" the strange horseman said. "I wish this man to
+recognise me, so that, knowing who I am, he may be aware that he cannot
+employ any subterfuge with me, and that frankness alone will save him
+from the fate that menaces him."
+
+The monk understood less and less. He really believed himself suffering
+from an atrocious nightmare.
+
+By the horseman's orders, however, one of his suite had lighted a torch
+of ocote wood.
+
+So soon as the flame played over the stranger's feature, and illumined
+his face, the monk gave a start of surprise, and clasped his hands at
+the same time as his countenance suddenly reassumed its serenity.
+
+"Heaven be praised!" he said, with an accent of beatitude impossible
+to render. "Is it possible that it can be you, Don. Stenio de Bejar? I
+was so far from believing that I should have the felicity of meeting
+you this night, Senor Conde, that, on my faith, I did not recognise
+you, and felt almost frightened."
+
+The Count, for it was really he whom the monk had so unfortunately met,
+did not answer for the moment, but contented himself with smiling.
+
+Don Stenio de Bejar, who had left Saint Domingo at full speed, for the
+purpose of going to the hatto del Rincon, in order to convince himself
+of the truth of the information given him by Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+thus found himself, by the greatest accident, just as he was reaching
+his destination, and when he least expected it, face to face with Fray
+Arsenio Mendoza; that is to say, with the only man capable of proving
+to him peremptorily the truth or falsehood of the assertions of the
+spy, who had denounced Dona Clara to her husband.
+
+Fray Arsenio's reputation for poltroonery had long been current among
+his countrymen, and hence nothing seemed more easy than to obtain from
+him the truth in its fullest details.
+
+The Count believed himself almost certain, by employing intimidation,
+to make Fray Arsenio confess what he knew: hence, so soon as the latter
+had mentioned his name, Don Stenio, warned by the spy, who rode at his
+side, resolved to terrify the monk, and thus render it impossible for
+him to resist the orders he might intimate to him.
+
+We take pleasure in believing that in acting thus, the Count had not
+the slightest intention of treating the monk with a violence, which
+in any case would be deplorable, but dishonourable on the part of
+a man in his position. Unfortunately, through the unforeseen and
+incomprehensible resistance which, contrary to all probability, the
+monk offered him, the Count was led away by his passion, and gave
+orders against his better judgment, when harshness and even cruelty
+could in no case be justified.
+
+After a silence of some seconds, Don Stenio fixed a piercing glance on
+the monk, as if he wished to read his very soul, and then seized him
+brutally by the arm.
+
+"Where have you come from?" he asked him, in a rough voice. "Is it the
+custom for monks of your order to ramble about the country at this hour
+of the night?"
+
+"My lord!" Fray Arsenio stammered, thrown off his guard by this
+question, which he was far from expecting.
+
+"Come, come!" the Count continued; "Answer at once, and let us have no
+subterfuge or tergiversation."
+
+"But, my lord, I do not at all understand this great anger which you
+appear to have with me. I am innocent, I vow!"
+
+"Ah! ah!" he said, with an ironical laugh; "You are innocent! _iViva
+Dios!_ you make haste to defend yourself before you are accused; hence
+you feel yourself guilty."
+
+Fray Arsenio was aware of the Count's jealousy, which he concealed so
+poorly, that, in spite of all his efforts, it was visible to everybody.
+Hence he understood that Dona Clara's secret had been revealed to her
+husband; and he foresaw the peril that menaced him for having acted as
+her accomplice. Still, he hoped that the Count had only learnt certain
+facts, while remaining ignorant of the details of the Countess' voyage;
+and hence, though he trembled at heart at the thought of the dangers to
+which he was doubtless exposed, alone and defenceless, in the hands of
+a man blinded by passion and the desire of avenging what he regarded
+as a stain on his honour, he resolved, whatever might happen, not to
+betray the confidence which a woman had unhappily placed in him.
+
+He raised his head and replied with a firm voice, and with an accent at
+which he was himself astonished--
+
+"My lord, you are governor of Saint Domingo; you have a right to
+exercise justice over those placed under your rule. You possess almost
+sovereign power, but you have no right, as far as I know, to ill treat
+me, either by word or deed, or to make me undergo an examination at
+your caprice. I have superiors on whom I am dependant; have me taken
+before them; hand me over to their justice, if I have committed any
+fault they will punish me, for they alone have the right of condemning
+or acquitting me."
+
+The Count had listened to the monk's long answer, while biting his lips
+savagely and stamping his foot with passion. He had not thought to find
+such resistance in this man.
+
+"So, then," he exclaimed, when Fray Arsenio at length ceased speaking,
+"you refuse to answer me?"
+
+"I refuse, my lord," he coldly replied, "because you have no right to
+question me."
+
+"You forget, however, Senor Padre, that if I have not the right, I have
+the might, at least, at this moment."
+
+"You are at liberty, my lord, to abuse that might, by applying it to an
+unhappy and defenceless man. I am no soldier, and physical suffering
+frightens me. I do not know how I shall endure the tortures you will
+perhaps inflict on me, but there is one thing of which I am certain."
+
+"What is it, may I ask, Senor Padre?"
+
+"That I will die, my lord, before answering any of your questions."
+
+"We shall see that," he said, sarcastically, "if you compel me to have
+recourse to violence."
+
+"You will see," he replied, in a gentle but firm voice, which denoted
+an irrevocable determination.
+
+"For the last time, I deign to warn you: take care--reflect."
+
+"All my reflections are made, my lord; I am in your power. Abuse my
+weakness as you may think proper, I shall not even attempt a useless
+defence. I shall not be the first monk of my order who has fallen a
+martyr to duty: others have preceded me, and others will doubtless
+follow me in this painful track."
+
+The Count stamped his foot savagely; the spectators, dumb and
+motionless, exchanged terrified glances, for they foresaw that this
+scene would soon have a terrible denouement, between two men, neither
+of whom would make concessions; while the first of them, blinded by
+rage, would soon not be in a condition to listen to the salutary
+counsels of reason.
+
+"My lord," Don Antonio de la Ronda murmured, "the stars are beginning
+to turn pale, and the day will soon dawn; we are still far from the
+hatto, would it not be better to set out without further delay?"
+
+"Silence!" the Count answered, with a smile of contempt. "Pedro," he
+added, addressing one of his domestics, "a match."
+
+The valet dismounted and advanced with a long sulphured match in his
+hand.
+
+"The two thumbs," the Count said, laconically.
+
+The domestic approached the monk; the latter offered his hands without
+hesitation, although his face was fearfully pale, and his whole body
+trembled.
+
+Pedro coolly rolled the match between his two thumbs, passing it
+several times under his nails, and then turned to the Count.
+
+"For the last time, monk," the latter said, "will you speak?"
+
+"I have nothing to say to you, my lord," Fray Arsenio replied, in a
+soft voice.
+
+"Light it," the Count commanded, biting his lips till they bled.
+
+The valet, with the passive obedience distinguishing men of this class,
+set fire to the match.
+
+The monk fell on his knees and raised his eyes to Heaven. His face had
+assumed an earthy tint, a cold perspiration beaded on his temples, and
+his hair stood on end. The suffering he experienced must be horrible,
+for his chest heaved violently, although his parched lips remained dumb.
+
+The Count watched him anxiously.
+
+"Will you speak now, monk?" he said to him in a hollow voice.
+
+Fray Arsenio turned toward him a face whose features were distorted by
+pain, and gave him a look full of ineffable gentleness.
+
+"I thank you, my lord," he said, "for having taught me that pain does
+not exist for a man whose faith is lively."
+
+"My curses on you, wretch!" the Count exclaimed, as he hurled him down
+with a blow on the chest. "To horse, senores, to horse, so that we may
+reach the hatto before sunrise."
+
+The cavaliers remounted, and went off at full speed, leaving, without
+a glance of compassion, the poor monk, who, vanquished by pain, had
+rolled fainting on the ground.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+THE ORGANIZATION OF THE COLONY.
+
+
+A triple expedition, so serious as that conceived by Montbarts,
+demanded, for its success, extreme care and precautions.
+
+The few points occupied by the buccaneers on the Spanish isles, did not
+at all resemble towns; they were agglomerations of houses built without
+order, according to the liking or caprice of the owner, and occupying a
+space twenty-fold larger than they should have taken in accordance with
+the population. Hence, these points were spots almost impossible to
+defend against a well-combined attack of the Spaniards, if the thought
+occurred to the latter of finishing once for all with their formidable
+neighbours.
+
+Port Margot, for instance, the most important point in the French
+possessions as a strategic position, was only a miserable hamlet, open
+to all comers, without police or organization, where every language
+was spoken, and which Spanish spies entered with the greatest facility
+without incurring a risk of discovery, and thus scented the plans of
+the filibusters.
+
+Montbarts, before advancing and attacking the Spaniards, whom he
+correctly suspected of being already acquainted with the motive of
+his presence on the island, either through Don Antonio de la Ronda,
+or other spies, and not wishing, when he was preparing to surprise
+the enemy, to be himself surprised and see his retreat cut off by an
+unforeseen attack, resolved to shelter Port Margot from a _coup de
+main._
+
+The grand council of the filibusters was convened on board the
+admiral's lugger. In this way the resolutions formed by the council
+would not transpire outside, and not reach hostile ears, ever open to
+hear them.
+
+Two days after the departure of Lepoletais, the council therefore
+assembled on the deck of the vessel, which had been prepared for the
+purpose, as the admiral's cabin had been judged too small to contain
+all those whom their wealth or their reputation authorized in being
+present at the meeting.
+
+At ten in the morning, numerous skiffs left the shore and pulled
+alongside the lugger, boarding it on all sides simultaneously.
+
+Montbarts received the delegates as they presented themselves, and led
+them beneath the awning prepared for them.
+
+Ere long, all the delegates were assembled on board: they were forty
+in number; filibusters, buccaneers, and habitants, all adventurers who
+had lived for several years on the isles, and desperate enemies of
+the Spaniards. Their complexion, bronzed by the tropical sun, their
+energetic features, and flashing glances, made them resemble bandits
+rather than peaceful colonists; but their frank and decided manners
+allowed a guess at the prodigies of incredible daring which they had
+already accomplished, and were ready to accomplish again, when the
+moment for action arrived.
+
+When all the members of the council were on board, Michael the Basque
+gave the skiffs orders to return ashore, and to come alongside again
+when they saw a large black and red flag hoisted at the mainmast of the
+lugger. A splendid lunch preceded the council, which, was held at table
+and during the dessert, so as to foil any indiscreet glances, which
+were doubtless watching what was going on aboard from the top of the
+cliffs.
+
+When the repast was ended, and spirits, pipes, and tobacco had
+been laid on the table by the engages, an order was given to remove
+the awning; the whole of the lugger's crew retired to the bows, and
+Montbarts, without leaving his seat, struck the table with his knife to
+request silence.
+
+The delegates vaguely knew that grave interests were about to be
+discussed, hence they had only eaten and drunk for form's sake, and
+though the table offered all the appearances of a true filibustering
+orgy, their brains were perfectly clear, and their heads cool.
+
+The road of Port Margot offered at this moment a strange spectacle,
+which was not deficient, however, in a certain picturesque and wild
+grandeur.
+
+Thousands of canoes were lying on their oars, forming an immense
+circle, of which the filibustering squadron was the centre.
+
+On shore, the cliffs and rocks were literally hidden by the confused
+and dense mass of spectators who had flocked from all the houses to
+watch, at a distance, this gigantic and Homeric feast, whose serious
+motive they were far from suspecting, beneath its frivolous appearance.
+
+Montbarts, after calling his friends' attention in a few words, to
+the enormous crowd of spectators who surrounded them, and showing how
+correct he had been in taking his precautions in consequence, filled
+his glass, and rose, shouting in a sonorous voice--
+
+"Brethren, the health of the king!"
+
+"The health of the king!" the filibusters responded, as they rose, and
+clinked their glasses together.
+
+At the same moment, all the guns of the lugger were discharged with a
+formidable noise; a loud clamour that rose from the beach proved that
+the spectators heartily joined in this patriotic toast.
+
+"Now," the admiral continued, as he sat down, which movement was
+imitated by his companions, "let us talk of our business, and be
+careful in doing so, that our gestures may not allow a suspicion of
+what is occupying us, since our words cannot be overheard."
+
+The council commenced its session. Montbarts, with the lofty views and
+clearness of expression he possessed, explained, in a few words, the
+critical position in which the colony would find it, unless energetic
+measures were taken, not only to place it in a position to defend
+itself, but also to hold out during the absence of the expedition.
+
+"I can understand," he said in conclusion, "that so long as we merely
+purposed to hunt wild bulls, such precautions were unnecessary, for our
+breasts were a sure rampart for our habitations; but from today the
+position is changed, we wish to create for ourselves an impregnable
+refuge; we are going to attack the Spaniards in their homes, and must
+consequently expect terrible reprisals from enemies, who, from the way
+in which we act towards them, will soon comprehend that we wish to
+remain the sole possessors of this land, which they have accustomed
+themselves to regard as belonging to them legitimately; we must,
+therefore, be in a position, not alone to resist them, but to inflict
+on them such a chastisement for their audacity, that they will be for
+ever disgusted with any fresh attempts to regain the territory we have
+conquered. To effect this, we must build a real town, in the place of
+the temporary camp which has, up to the present, sufficed us; and, with
+the exception of the members of our association, no stranger must be
+allowed to introduce himself among us, for the sake of spying us, and
+repeating to our enemies our secrets, whatever their nature may be."
+
+The filibusters warmly applauded these remarks, whose truth they
+recognized. They at length saw the necessity of setting order in their
+disorder, and entering the great human family, by themselves accepting
+some of those laws, from which they fancied they had enfranchised
+themselves for ever, and which are the sole condition of the vitality
+of society.
+
+Under the omnipotent influence of Montbarts and the members of the
+association of the Twelve, who were scattered about the meeting, the
+urgent measures were immediately discussed and settled; but when
+everything was arranged, the council suddenly found itself stopped
+short by a difficulty of which it had not thought at all--who was to be
+entrusted with the duty of carrying out the measures, as no buccaneer
+had a recognized authority over the rest?
+
+The difficulty was great; almost insurmountable. Still it was Montbarts
+who again smoothed down the difficulty to the general satisfaction.
+
+"Nothing is more easy," he said, "than to find the man we want; this
+is an exceptional case, and we must act according to circumstances.
+Let us elect a chief, as for a dangerous expedition, let us choose
+one who is energetic and intelligent, which will be a trifle, as the
+only difficulty will be the choice among so many equally good. This
+chief will be elected by us, the first for a year, his successor for
+only six months, in order to guard against any abuse of power they
+might eventually be attempted to try. This chief will assume the
+title of governor, and in reality govern all civil matters, assisted
+by a council of seven members, chosen by the habitants, as well as
+by subaltern agents, nominated by himself. The laws he will employ
+exist, for they are those of our association; it is understood that the
+governor will watch, like a captain aboard his ship, over the safety
+of the colony, and, in the event of treachery, will be punishable with
+death. This proposition is, I believe, the only one that we can take
+into consideration; does it suit you, brothers? Do you accept it?"
+
+The delegates replied by a universal affirmation,
+
+"In that case let us at once proceed to the election."
+
+"Pardon me, brothers," Belle Tete said, "with your permission, I have a
+few remarks to submit to the council."
+
+"Speak, brother, we will hear you," Montbarts answered him.
+
+"I offer myself," Belle Tete said frankly, "as governor, not through
+ambition, for that would be absurd, but because I believe that I am at
+this moment the best man for the place; you all know me, and hence I
+will not put forward my qualifications. Certain reasons urge me to try,
+if possible, to withdraw my promise, and not follow the expedition; to
+which, however, I feel convinced that I shall render great services, if
+you choose me as governor."
+
+"You have heard, brethren," Montbarts said, "consult together, but fill
+your glasses first, you have ten minutes to reflect; at the end of that
+time all the glasses that have not been emptied will be considered as
+adverse votes."
+
+"Ah, traitor," Michael the Basque said, leaning over to Belle Tete's
+ear, by whose side he was seated, "I know why you want to stop at Port
+Margot."
+
+"You? Stuff," he answered with embarrassment.
+
+"Zounds, it is not difficult to guess, you are caught, mate."
+
+"Well, it is true, and you are right, that little devil of a woman I
+bought at St. Kitts has turned my head; she turns me round her little
+finger."
+
+"Ah! love!" Michael said ironically.
+
+"The deuce take love, and the woman too; a girl no bigger than that,
+whom I could smash with one blow."
+
+"She is very pretty, you showed good taste; her name is Louise, is it
+not?"
+
+"Yes, Louise; it was a bad bargain I made."
+
+"Nonsense!" Michael said, with the utmost seriousness, "well, there is
+a way of arranging the matter."
+
+"Do you think so?"
+
+"Zounds, I am sure of it."
+
+"I should like to know it, for I confess to you that she has completely
+upset my ideas; the confounded girl, with her bird's voice, and sly
+smile, turns me about like a whirligig: by Heaven, I am the most
+unfortunate of men--tell me your plan, brother."
+
+"Why, sell her to me."
+
+Belle Tete suddenly turned pale at this blunt offer, which, indeed,
+settled everything; but which, though he did not suspect it, Michael
+only made in a joke, and to try him; he frowned, and angrily replied in
+a voice trembling with emotion, and striking the table with his fist--
+
+"Zounds, mate, that is a magnificent way you have found, but the fiend
+take me if I accept it; no, no, whatever sorrow the little witch causes
+me--have I not told you that she has bewitched me?--I love her! Blood
+and thunder, do you understand that?"
+
+"Of course I understand it; but come, reassure yourself, I have not
+the slightest intention of depriving you of your Louise; what should I
+do with a wife? Besides, what I have seen of other men's love affairs,
+does not offer me the slightest inducement to try it on my own account."
+
+"All right," Belle Tete replied, reassured by this frank declaration,
+"that is speaking like a man; and, after all, you are right, brother;
+although I would not consent for anything in the world to part with my
+Louise, still, after the experience I have of her, if the bargain was
+to be made again, hang me if I would purchase her."
+
+"Stuff!" said Michael, with a shrug of his shoulders, "Men always say
+that, and when the moment arrives, they never fail to begin the same
+folly over again."
+
+Belle Tete reflected for a moment, and then tapped Michael amicably on
+the shoulder, at the same time saying with a laugh--
+
+"On my word that is true, brother; you are right, I believe that I
+should really behave as you say."
+
+"I am certain of it," Michael replied, with another shrug of his
+shoulders.
+
+During this aside, between the two adventurers, the ten minutes had
+elapsed.
+
+"Brethren," said Montbarts, "we are about to proceed to an examination
+of the votes."
+
+He looked: all the glasses were empty.
+
+"You are unanimous," he said, "and that is well. Brother Belle Tete,
+you are elected governor of Port Margot."
+
+"Brethren," the latter said, bowing all round, "I thank you for having
+given me your votes. I shall not deceive your expectations; our colony,
+even though I was obliged to bury myself beneath its ruins, shall never
+fall into the hands of the Spaniards, and you know me well enough not
+to doubt my oath. I intend to set to work this very day; for, as our
+admiral has very justly said, we have not a moment to lose. Confide the
+duty of guarding your interests to me."
+
+"Before we separate," said Montbarts, "it would be as well, I fancy, to
+agree to keep our deliberations secret for a few days."
+
+"You may divulge them tomorrow without danger," Belle Tete continued;
+"but allow me, brethren, to choose from among you the few assistants I
+shall require."
+
+"Do so," the filibusters answered.
+
+Belle Tete named eight adventurers, whose blind bravery he knew, and
+then addressed the delegates for the last time, who were already rising
+and preparing to leave the ship.
+
+"You remember, I trust that I am considered by you the leader of an
+expedition."
+
+"Yes," they replied.
+
+"Consequently you owe me the most perfect obedience to all the orders I
+shall give you in the common interest."
+
+"Yes," they repeated.
+
+"You swear, then, to obey me without any hesitation or murmuring?"
+
+"We do."
+
+"Very good; now farewell for the present, brothers."
+
+The boats had been recalled by a flag hoisted at the main yard, and a
+few minutes after all the delegates had left the ship, except Belle
+Tete and the eight officers chosen by him.
+
+Montbarts and Belle Tete remained shut up for some hours, doubtless
+settling the measures which must be adopted in order to obtain the
+desired result as soon as possible; then, a little before sunset,
+the new Governor took leave of the Admiral, entered a boat prepared
+expressly for him, and returned ashore, followed by his officers.
+
+About eleven o'clock in the evening, when the town appeared completely
+asleep, when all doors were shut, and lights extinguished, an observer
+in a position to see what was going on, would have noticed a strange
+spectacle.
+
+Armed men glided gently out of the houses, casting inquiring glances
+to the right and left, that seemed trying to pierce the profound
+darkness by which they were surrounded. They proceeded separately on
+tiptoe to the principal square, where they joined other men armed like
+themselves, who, having arrived first, were waiting.
+
+Ere long the number of these men, which was augmented every moment,
+became considerable; at an order, given in a low voice, they broke up
+into several parties, left the square by different outlets, went out of
+the town, and formed a wide circle all round it.
+
+One last band of about forty men had remained in the square, however;
+this party was broken up in its turn, but, instead of also leaving the
+town, platoons, composed of ten men each, went from the square in four
+different directions, and entered the streets.
+
+The latter were proceeding to pay domiciliary visits; no house escaped
+their vigilance, they entered all, searching them with the most
+scrupulous exactness, sounding the walls and flooring, and even opening
+cupboards and chests.
+
+Such minute researches necessarily occupied a long time, and did not
+terminate till sunrise.
+
+Eight Spanish spies had been discovered in the houses, and three
+arrested by the sentries at the moment when they attempted flight, or
+eleven in all.
+
+The Governor had them temporarily put in irons aboard the lugger, so
+that they could not escape.
+
+At sunrise, buccaneers, habitants, engages, and filibusters, all armed
+with spades, pickaxes, and hatchets, set about digging a trench round
+the town.
+
+This job, which was performed with extraordinary ardor, lasted three
+days; the trench was twelve feet wide, by fifteen deep, and the earth
+was thrown up on the side of the town; on this _talus_ stakes were
+planted, bound together with strong iron bands, embrasures being left
+to place guns, and for loopholes.
+
+While the entire population thus laboured with the feverish ardor that
+accomplishes prodigies, large clearings had been effected in the woods
+surrounding the port; then the forest was fired, care being taken that
+the fire should not extend beyond a demi-league in all directions.
+
+These gigantic works, which, in ordinary times, would demand a
+lengthened period, were finished at the end of ten days, which would
+seem incredible were not the fact stated in several records worthy of
+belief.
+
+Port Margot was thus, thanks to the energy of its Governor, and the
+passive obedience with which the filibusters executed his orders,
+not only protected against a _coup de main_, but also rendered
+capable of resisting a regular siege. And this had been effected with
+such secrecy, that nothing had transpired abroad; and owing to the
+precautions taken at the outset, the Spaniards had no suspicion of the
+change so menacing to them, and which presaged an internecine war.
+
+When the fortifications were finished, the Governor had eleven gallows
+erected, at a certain distance from each other, on the glacis. The
+unhappy Spanish spies were suspended from them, and their bodies were
+fastened to the gallows by iron chains, so that, as Belle Tete said,
+with an ill-omened smile, the sight of the corpses might terrify those
+of their compatriots, who might be tempted to follow their example,
+and introduce themselves into the town.
+
+All the habitants were then convoked in the chief square, and Belle
+Tete mounted a platform erected for the purpose, and announced to them
+the determinations formed aboard the lugger, his nomination to the post
+of Governor, the measures he had thought it his duty to take for the
+general welfare, and ended by asking their approbation.
+
+This approbation the inhabitants most willingly granted, because they
+found themselves in presence of accomplished facts, which did not in
+any way injure them.
+
+The Governor, thus finding his undertakings sanctioned, invited the
+inhabitants to nominate a council of seven members chosen from among
+themselves; and this proposition they joyfully accepted, because they
+justly anticipated that these councillors would defend their interests.
+
+The seven municipal councillors were therefore elected at once, and, by
+the Governor's invitation, took their seat by his side on the platform.
+
+Then the Governor informed his audience that nothing was changed in the
+colony, which would continue to be governed by the laws in force among
+the filibusters, that everyone would live in the same liberty as in the
+past, and that the measures taken were solely intended to protect the
+interests of all, and in no way to annoy the colonists, or subject them
+to a humiliating yoke.
+
+This final assurance produced the best effect on the crowd, and the
+Governor retired, amid shouts and the warmest protestations of devotion.
+
+Although Montbarts had chosen to remain obstinately in the background,
+all these ameliorations were solely due to him; Belle Tete had merely
+been a passive and submissive agent in his hands.
+
+When the Admiral, saw matters in the state he desired, he resolved
+to depart, and after a final interview with the Governor, he placed
+himself at the head of his filibusters, and left the town.
+
+Michael the Basque had departed several hours previously, entrusted
+with a secret mission, and accompanied by ninety resolute men.
+
+From this moment the expedition commenced; but what its result would be
+no one could as yet foretell.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+THE FLIGHT FROM THE HATTO.
+
+
+Without taking the time to peruse the letters that were handed him,
+Don Sancho concealed them in his doublet, and proceeded hastily to his
+sister's apartment.
+
+She was anxiously awaiting him.
+
+"Here you are at last, brother," she exclaimed on perceiving him.
+
+"What," the young man replied, as he kissed her hand, "were you
+expecting me?"
+
+"Oh, yes, that I was; but you are very late--what has kept you so
+long?" she asked, in agitation.
+
+"Where have I been? Why, s'death! I have been hunting, the only
+pleasure allowed a gentleman in this horrible country."
+
+"What, at this hour?"
+
+"Zounds, my dear Clara, a man gets home when he can, especially in this
+country, where we ought to feel very happy at reaching home again at
+all."
+
+"You are speaking in enigmas, brother, and I do not at all understand
+you; be kind enough, therefore, to explain yourself clearly--have you
+fallen into bad company?"
+
+"Yes, and very bad, too; but forgive me, my dear Clara, if you have no
+objection, let us proceed regularly. You desired to see me immediately
+on my return, and here I am at your orders; be kind enough, therefore,
+to tell me how I can possibly be of service to you, and then I will
+narrate the series of singular events with which my today's sport
+has been diversified. I will not hide from you that I have certain
+questions to ask of you, and certain explanations, which I feel sure
+you will not refuse to give me."
+
+"What do you mean, Sancho?"
+
+"Nothing at present; do you speak first, sister."
+
+"Well, if you insist on it--"
+
+"I do not insist at all, sister--I only request it."
+
+"Very good, I yield to your request; I have received several letters."
+
+"So I have; but I confess that I have not read them yet, and do not
+think they are of any great importance."
+
+"I have read mine, and do you know what they tell me beside other news?"
+
+"Indeed, no, unless it be my appointment to the post of Alcade Mayor
+of Hispaniola, which, I allow, would greatly surprise me," he said,
+laughingly.
+
+"Do not jest so, Sancho; the matter is very serious."
+
+"Really? In that case speak, little sister. You see I have as solemn a
+face as your dear husband."
+
+"It is exactly to him I refer."
+
+"Stuff! My brother-in-law? Has any accident happened to him in the
+performance of his noble and wearisome duties?"
+
+"No, on the contrary, he is in better health than usual."
+
+"In that case, all the better for him; I wish him no harm, though he is
+the most fastidious gentleman of my acquaintance."
+
+"Will you listen to me--yes or no?" she asked, impatiently.
+
+"Why, I am doing so, dear sister."
+
+"You are really insupportable."
+
+"Come, do not be angry--I have done; I will not laugh anymore."
+
+"Have you seen the two Fifties encamped in front of the hatto?"
+
+"Yes, and I must allow that I was greatly surprised to see them."
+
+"You will be much more surprised on hearing that my husband is coming
+here."
+
+"He? Impossible, sister! He did not say a word to me about the journey."
+
+"Because it is secret."
+
+"Ah, ah!" the young man remarked, with a frown; "And are you sure that
+he is coming?"
+
+"Certain. The person who writes me so was present at his departure,
+which no one suspects; the courier who brought me the news, and to whom
+the greatest diligence was recommended, is only a few hours ahead of
+him."
+
+"This is, indeed, serious," the young man muttered.
+
+"What is to be done?"
+
+"S'death!" the young man replied, carelessly, but gazing fixedly at
+Dona Clara--"Welcome him."
+
+"Oh!" the lady exclaimed, twisting her hands despairingly, "I have been
+betrayed--he is coming to avenge himself!"
+
+"Avenge himself? For what, sister?"
+
+She gave him a look of strange significance, and then bent over him.
+
+"I am ruined, brother," she said, in a hollow voice, "for this man
+knows everything, and will kill me."
+
+Don Sancho, in spite of himself, was affected by this sorrow; he adored
+his sister, and felt ashamed of the part he was playing at this moment
+before her.
+
+"And I, too, Clara," he said to her, "know everything."
+
+"You! Oh, you are jesting, brother."
+
+"No, I am not; I love you, and wish to save you, even if I gave my life
+to do so: hence, reassure yourself, and do not fix upon me eyes haggard
+with grief."
+
+"What do you know, in heaven's name?"
+
+"I know that which probably a traitor, as you called him, has sold to
+your husband, that is to say, that you left the hatto, went aboard a
+vessel, which conveyed you to Nevis, and there--"
+
+"Oh! Not a word more, brother," she exclaimed as she fell into his
+arms; "you are really well informed, but I swear to you, brother,
+in the name of what is most sacred in the world, that, although
+appearances condemn me, I am innocent."
+
+"I know it, sister, and never doubted it; what is your intention, will
+you await your husband here?"
+
+"Never, never! Did I not tell you he would kill me?"
+
+"What is to be done then?"
+
+"Fly, fly without delay; at once."
+
+"But where shall we go?"
+
+"How do I know? To the cliff or the forest, live among the wild beasts
+sooner than remain any longer here."
+
+"Very good, we will go, I know where to take you."
+
+"You?"
+
+"Yes, did I not tell you that sundry accidents happened to me today
+while hunting?"
+
+"So you did; but what has that to do with it?"
+
+"A great deal," he interrupted; "the Major-domo, who accompanied me,
+and I tumbled over an encampment of filibusters."
+
+"Ah," she said, turning paler than she had been before.
+
+"Yes, and I intend to conduct you to that encampment; besides, one of
+the buccaneers entrusted me with a message for you."
+
+"What do you mean?"
+
+"Exactly what I am saying, sister."
+
+She appeared to reflect for an instant, and then turned resolutely to
+the young man.
+
+"Well, be it so, brother, let us go to those men, though they are
+represented as so cruel; perhaps every human feeling has not been
+extinguished in their hearts, and they will take pity on me."
+
+"When shall we go?"
+
+"As speedily as possible."
+
+"That is true, but the hatto is probably watched and the soldiers have
+doubtless secret orders, you may be a prisoner without suspecting it,
+my poor sister; for what other reason would the two Fifties be here?"
+
+"Oh! In that case I am lost."
+
+"Perhaps there is one way, and the orders given doubtless only affect
+you; but unfortunately the journey will be long, fatiguing, and beset
+with numberless perils."
+
+"What matter, brother? I am strong, do not be anxious about me."
+
+"Very good, we will try; you are absolutely determined on flight?"
+
+"Yes, whatever may befall me."
+
+"Well then, we will put our trust in heaven, wait for me a moment."
+
+The young man left the room and returned a few minutes later, bearing a
+rather large bundle under his arm.
+
+"Here are my page's clothes, I do not know how they happen to be in
+my possession, but my valet probably placed them in my portmanteau by
+mistake, for they are new, and I remember that the tailor brought them
+home a few minutes before my departure from Saint Domingo, but I thank
+accident for causing it to be so. Dress yourself, wrap yourself up
+in a cloak, put this hat on your head, I will answer for everything.
+Besides, this costume is preferable to your woman's clothes for
+crossing the savannah; mind and not forget to place these pistols and
+this dagger in your belt, for there is no knowing what may happen."
+
+"Thanks brother! I shall be ready in a quarter of an hour."
+
+"Good; during that time I will go and reconnoitre; do not open the door
+to anyone but me."
+
+"You may depend upon me."
+
+The young man lit a cigarette and left the apartment with the most
+careless air he could assume.
+
+On entering the zaguan, the Count found himself face to face with the
+Major-domo. Senor Birbomono had such an anxious look that it did not
+escape Don Sancho; still he continued to advance, pretending not to
+notice it.
+
+But the Major-domo came straight up to him.
+
+"I am glad to meet you, Excellency," he said, "if you had not come
+within ten minutes, I should have knocked at the door of your
+apartment."
+
+"Ah!" Don Sancho observed, "What pressing motive was there to urge you
+to such a step?"
+
+"Is your Excellency aware of what is taking place?" the Major-domo
+continued, without appearing to notice the young man's ironical tone.
+
+"What! Is there really anything happening?"
+
+"Does not your Excellency know it?"
+
+"Probably not, as I ask you; after all, as the news, I am sure,
+interests me but very slightly, you are quite at liberty not to tell it
+to me."
+
+"On the contrary, Excellency, it interests you as well as all the
+inhabitants of the hatto."
+
+"Oh! oh! What is it then?"
+
+"It appears that the commander of the two Fifties, has placed sentries
+all round the hatto."
+
+"Very good, in that case, we need not fear being attacked by the
+buccaneers, of whom you are so afraid, and I will thank the commandant
+for it."
+
+"You are at liberty to do so, Excellency, but I fancy you will find it
+difficult."
+
+"Why so?"
+
+"Because orders are given to let anyone enter the hatto but nobody
+leave it."
+
+A shudder ran through the young man's veins on hearing this; he turned
+frightfully pale, but recovering himself almost immediately, remarked
+carelessly,
+
+"Stuff! that order cannot affect me."
+
+"Pardon me, Excellency, it is general."
+
+"In that case, you think that, if I tried to go out--"
+
+"You would be stopped."
+
+"Confound it, that is very annoying, not that I have any intention of
+going out, but as by my character, I am very fond of doing things which
+are prohibited--"
+
+"You would like to take a walk, I suppose, Excellency?"
+
+Don Sancho looked at Birbomono, as if trying to read his thoughts.
+
+"And suppose such were my intention?" he resumed presently.
+
+"I would undertake to get you out."
+
+"You?"
+
+"Yes, I; am I not the Major-domo of the hatto?"
+
+"That is true; thus, the prohibition does not extend to you?"
+
+"To me, as to the rest, Excellency; but the soldiers do not know the
+hatto as I know; I could Slip between their fingers, whenever I liked."
+
+"I have strong inclination to try it."
+
+"Do so, Excellency; I have three horses at a spot where no one but
+myself could find them."
+
+"Why, three horses?" the young man asked, pricking up his ears.
+
+"Because, doubtless, you do not wish to ride with me only, but will
+take someone with you."
+
+Don Sancho, understanding that the Major-domo had penetrated his
+thoughts, made up his mind at once.
+
+"Let us play fairly," he said, "can you be faithful."
+
+"I am so, and devoted too, Excellency, as you have a proof."
+
+"What assures me that you are not laying a trap for me?"
+
+"With what object?"
+
+"That of obtaining a reward from the Count."
+
+"No, Excellency, no reward would induce me to betray my mistress; I may
+be anything you please, but I love Dona Clara, who has always been kind
+to me, and has often protected me."
+
+"I am willing to believe you, and indeed have no time to discuss the
+point, but here are my conditions: a bullet through the head if you
+betray me, a thousand piastres if you are faithful; do you accept them?"
+
+"I do, Excellency, the thousand piastres are gained."
+
+"You know that I do not threaten in vain."
+
+"I know you."
+
+"Very good, what must we do?"
+
+"Follow me, that is all; our flight will be most easy, for I prepared
+everything on my return; I had my suspicions on seeing those demons
+of soldiers, suspicions which were soon changed into certainty, after
+some skilful inquiries here and there; my devotion to my mistress
+rendered me clear sighted, and you see that I acted wisely in taking my
+precautions."
+
+The accent with which the Major-domo pronounced these words, had such a
+stamp of truth, his face was so frank and open, that the young Count's
+last suspicions were dissipated.
+
+"Wait for me," he said, "I will go and fetch my sister."
+
+And he hurried away.
+
+"Oh!" said Birbomono, with a grin, so soon as he was alone, "I do not
+know whether Senor don Stenio de Bejar will be pleased at seeing his
+wife escape in this way, when he felt so certain of holding her; poor
+senora! She is so good to us all, that it would be infamous to betray
+her, and then, after all, this is a good deed which brings me one
+thousand piastres," he added, rubbing his hands, "that is a very decent
+amount."
+
+It was about eleven o'clock at night, all the lights in the hatto
+were extinguished by orders of the Major-domo, who had provided for
+everything; the slaves had been dismissed to their huts, and a solemn
+silence brooded over the landscape, a silence solely interrupted at
+regular intervals, by the sentries who challenged each other in a
+monotonous voice.
+
+Don Sancho soon returned, accompanied by his sister, wrapped up like
+himself, in a long mantle.
+
+Dona Clara did not speak, but on joining the Major-domo, she
+gracefully held out her right hand to him, on which he respectfully
+impressed his lips.
+
+Although the officers had told the soldiers to keep a good guard, and
+watch carefully, not only the hatto, but its environs, the latter,
+slightly reassured by the darkness on one hand, and on the other,
+by the gloomy and mysterious depths of the forests that surrounded
+them, stood motionless behind the trees, contenting themselves with
+responding to the challenge, every half hour, but not venturing to go
+even a few yards from the shelter they had chosen.
+
+The reasons for this apparent cowardice, were simple, and although we
+have explained them, we will repeat them here, for the sake of greater
+clearness.
+
+In the early times of the buccaneers landing on Saint Domingo, the
+Fifties sent by the governor in pursuit of them, were armed with
+muskets; but after several encounters with the French, in which the
+latter gave them an awful thrashing, their terror of the adventurers
+became so great that, whenever they were sent on an expedition against
+these men, whom they almost regarded as demons, no sooner did they
+enter the forests, or the mountain gorges, or even the savannahs, where
+they might suppose the buccaneers to be ambushed, than they began
+to fire their pieces right and left, for the purpose of warning the
+enemies, and inducing them to withdraw.
+
+The result of this clever manoeuvre was that the adventurers, thus
+warned, decamped in reality, and thus became intangible; the governor
+noticing this result, eventually guessed its cause, and hence, in order
+to avoid such a thing in future, he took the muskets away from the
+soldiers and substituted lances. This change, let us hasten to add, was
+not at all to the liking of these brave soldiers, who thus saw their
+ingenious scheme foiled, and were even more exposed to the blows of
+their formidable enemies.
+
+It was almost without being obliged to take any other precaution than
+that of walking noiselessly and not speaking, that the Major-domo and
+the two persons he served as guide, succeeded in quitting the hatto on
+the opposite side to that on which the Fifties had established their
+bivouac.
+
+Once the line of sentries was passed, the fugitives hurried on more
+rapidly, and soon reached a thicket in the midst of which three fully
+accoutred horses were so thoroughly hidden that unless known to be
+there, it would have been impossible to find them; for a greater
+precaution, and to prevent them from neighing, the Major-domo had
+fastened a cord round their nostrils.
+
+So soon as the three were mounted, and before starting, Birbomono
+turned to Don Sancho,--
+
+"Where are we going, Excellency?" he asked.
+
+"Do you know the spot where the buccaneers we met today are
+bivouacked?" the young man replied.
+
+"Yes, Excellency."
+
+"Do you think you could succeed in finding the bivouac in the midst of
+the darkness?"
+
+The Major-domo smiled.
+
+"Nothing is more easy," he said.
+
+"In that case lead us to those men."
+
+"Very good; but, Excellency, be good enough not press your horse on at
+present, for we are still near the house, and the slightest imprudence
+would be sufficient to give an alarm."
+
+"Do you think, then, that they would venture to pursue us?"
+
+"Separately, certainly not; but as they are so numerous, they would
+not hesitate; the less so, because from what I heard them say, they
+feel certain that the buccaneers have never come into these parts. This
+redoubles their bravery, and they would perhaps not be sorry to furnish
+a proof of it at our expense."
+
+"Excellent reasoning; regulate our pace, therefore, as you think
+proper, and we will only act in accordance with your judgment."
+
+They set out; with the exception of the precautions they were obliged
+to take not to be discovered, the journey had nothing disagreeable
+about it, on a bright and perfumed night, beneath a sky studded with
+brilliant stars, and in the midst of a most delightful scenery, whose
+slightest diversities the transparency of the atmosphere allowed to be
+seen.
+
+After an hour spent in a moderate trot, their pace became insensibly
+more rapid, and the horses growing gradually more excited, eventually
+broke into a gallop, at which their riders kept them for a considerable
+period.
+
+Dona Clara bent over her horse's neck, and with her eyes eagerly fixed
+ahead, seemed to upbraid the slowness of this ride, which, however, had
+assumed the headlong speed of a pursuit: at times she leant over to her
+brother, who constantly kept by her side, and asked him in a choking
+voice--
+
+"Shall we soon arrive?"
+
+"Yes, have patience, sister," the young man said, suppressing a sigh of
+pity for the agony which preyed on his sister's heart.
+
+And their pace grew more rapid than ever.
+
+The stars were already expiring in the heavens, the atmosphere was
+growing refreshed, the horizon was striped by long mother-o'-pearl
+coloured bands, a light sea breeze brought up to the travellers its
+alkaline odours, and the night had passed. Suddenly, at the moment
+when the three riders were about to emerge from a thick wood, in which
+they had been following a track made by the wild cattle for nearly an
+hour, the Major-domo, who was a few yards ahead, pulled up his horse
+and leant back.
+
+"Stop, in Heaven's name!" he exclaimed, in a low voice.
+
+The young couple obeyed, though they did not comprehend this order.
+
+The Major-domo went up to them.
+
+"Look!" he muttered, and stretched out his arm toward the savannah.
+
+A rapid gallop, that drew nearer every second, but which the noise of
+their own march had prevented them from hearing, now smote their ears,
+and almost at the same moment they saw through the screen of foliage
+which hid them from sight, several horsemen pass as if borne along by a
+hurricane.
+
+A branch struck off the hat of one of the riders as he passed.
+
+"Don Stenio!" Dona Clara exclaimed in horror.
+
+"Zounds!" Don Sancho said, "We were just in time."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+EVENTS ACCUMULATE.
+
+
+The horsemen had continued their wild course without perceiving the
+fugitives: one of them, indeed, at the cry uttered by Dona Clara, had
+made a gesture as if to stop his steed, but doubtless supposing that
+he had been mistaken, he followed his companions after a moment's
+hesitation, which was very fortunate for him, as Don Sancho had already
+drawn a pistol, with the resolution of blowing out his brains.
+
+For some minutes the fugitives remained motionless, anxiously listening
+to the galloping of the horses, whose sound rapidly retired, and was
+soon lost in the distance, when it became confounded with the other
+noises of the night.
+
+Then they breathed again, and Don Sancho put back in his holster the
+pistol which he had held in his hand up to this moment.
+
+"Hum!" he muttered; "Only the thickness of a bush saved us from being
+discovered."
+
+"Heaven be thanked!" Dona Clara said; "We are saved!"
+
+"That is to say, my little sister, we are not caught," the young man
+replied, incapable of maintaining his seriousness for five minutes,
+however grave circumstances might be.
+
+"They are going at a tremendous pace," the Major-domo now remarked; "we
+have nothing more to fear from them."
+
+"In that case, let us be off," Don Sancho replied.
+
+"Yes, yes, let us go," Dona Clara murmured.
+
+They dashed out of the thicket which had offered them so sure a
+protection, and entered the plain.
+
+The sky became lighter every moment; and although the sun was still
+beneath the horizon, its influence was beginning to be felt. Nature
+appeared to shake off her nocturnal sleep; some birds were already
+awake under the soft leaves, and preluding, by soft twittering, their
+matin chant; the dark outlines of savage animals bounded through the
+tall dew-laden grass; and the birds of prey, expanding their mighty
+wings, rose high in aether, as if they wished to go and meet the sun,
+and salute its advent: in a word, it was no longer night, without being
+fully day.
+
+"Ah! What I do see at the foot of that mound?" Don Sancho suddenly said.
+
+"Where?" Birbomono asked.
+
+"There, straight in front of us."
+
+The Major-domo placed his hands over his eyes, and looked attentively.
+
+"_iViva Dios!_" he exclaimed, at the end of a moment, "It is a man!"
+
+"A man?"
+
+"On my word, yes, Excellency; and, as far as I can distinguish at this
+distance, a Carib savage."
+
+"Zounds! What is he doing on that mound?"
+
+"We shall be able to assure ourselves of that more easily directly,
+unless he thinks proper to keep out of our way."
+
+"Well, let us go to him, in Heaven's name."
+
+"Brother," Dona Clara objected, "what is the use of lengthening our
+journey, when we are so hurried?"
+
+"That is true," the young man said.
+
+"Reassure yourself, senora," the Major-domo observed; "that hillock is
+exactly on the road we must follow, and we cannot help passing it."
+
+Dona Clara said no more, and the trio set out again.
+
+They soon reached the mound, which they ascended at a gallop.
+
+The Carib had not quitted the spot, but the riders stopped in stupor on
+perceiving that he was not alone.
+
+The Indian, kneeling on the ground, appearing to be attending to a man
+stretched out before him, and who was beginning to regain his senses.
+
+"Fray Arsenio!" Dona Clara exclaimed at the sight of this man. "Great
+Heavens! He is dead!"
+
+"No," the Indian answered in a gentle voice, as he turned to her, "but
+he has been most horribly tortured."
+
+"He! Tortured?" his hearers exclaimed, unanimously.
+
+"Look at his hands," the Carib continued.
+
+The Spaniards uttered a cry of horror and pity at the sight of the poor
+monk's bleeding and swollen thumbs.
+
+"Oh, it is frightful!" they murmured, sadly.
+
+"Wretch," Don Sancho said in his indignation, "you have brought him to
+this state!"
+
+The Carib shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.
+
+"The paleface is mad!" he replied; "My brothers do not torture the
+chiefs of prayer--they respect them. White men, like himself, have
+inflicted this atrocious punishment upon him."
+
+"Explain yourself, in Heaven's name," Dona Clara continued; "how is it
+that we find this worthy monk here in such a pitiable state?"
+
+"It will be better to let him explain himself when he has regained his
+senses. Omopoua knows but little."
+
+"That is true," Dona Clara said, as she dismounted and knelt by the
+side of the wounded man. "Poor fellow! What frightful suffering he must
+be enduring."
+
+"Can you not tell us anything, then?" Don Sancho asked.
+
+"Almost nothing," the chief replied, "this is all that I know."
+
+And he narrated in what way the monk had been confided to him, and how
+he had served as his guide, till they met the white men, when the monk
+discharged him for the purpose of joining them.
+
+"But," he added, "I know not why, some secret foreboding seemed to
+warn me not to leave him: hence, instead of going away I hid myself in
+the shrubs, and witnessed, unseen, the tortures they had him undergo,
+while insisting on his revealing to them a secret, which he refused to
+divulge. Conquered by his constancy, they at length abandoned him half
+dead. Then I rushed from my hiding place, and flew to his help. That is
+all I know; I am a chief, I have no forked tongue, and a falsehood has
+never sullied the lips of Omopoua."
+
+"Forgive me, Chief, the improper language I used at the first moment; I
+was blinded by anger and sorrow," said Don Sancho, holding out his hand.
+
+"The paleface is young," the chief replied with a smile; "his tongue
+moves more quickly than his heart;" then he took the hand so frankly
+offered him, and pressed it cordially.
+
+"Oh, oh!" the Major-domo said, with a shake of his head, and leaning
+over to Don Sancho's ear, "If I am not greatly mistaken, Don Stenio is
+mixed up in this affair."
+
+"It is not possible," Don Sancho replied, with horror.
+
+"You do not know your brother-in-law, Excellency; his is a weak nature,
+and all such are cruel; believe me, I am certain of what I state."
+
+"No, no, it would be too frightful."
+
+"Good Heaven," Dona Clara said, at this moment, "we cannot remain here
+any longer, and yet I should not like to abandon the poor man."
+
+"Let us take him with us," Don Sancho quickly remarked.
+
+"But will his wounds permit him to endure the fatigue of a long ride?"
+
+"We are almost at our journey's end," the Major-domo said, and then,
+turning to the Carib, added--
+
+"We are going to the bivouac of the two buccaneers, who were hunting on
+the savannah yesterday."
+
+"Very good;" said the chief, "I will lead the palefaces by a narrow
+road, and they will arrive ere the sun reaches the edges of the
+horizon."
+
+Dona Clara and her brother remounted. The monk was cautiously placed in
+front of the Major-domo, and the small party set out again at a foot
+pace, under the guidance of the Carib chief.
+
+Poor Fray Arsenio gave no other signs of existence but deep sighs,
+which at intervals heaved his chest, and stifled groans torn from him
+by suffering.
+
+At the end of three quarters of an hour they reached the boucan, by the
+near cut, which Omopoua indicated to them.
+
+It was empty, but not deserted, as was proved by the bull hides, still
+stretched out on the ground, and held down by pegs, and the boucaned
+meat suspended from the forks of the branches.
+
+The adventurers were probably away, hunting.
+
+The travellers were considerably annoyed by this contretemps, but
+Omopoua relieved them of their embarrassment.
+
+"The palefaces need not be anxious," he said, "the chief will warn his
+friends, the white _franiis_--in their absence the paler faces can use,
+without fear, everything they find here."
+
+And, joining example to precept, the Carib prepared a bed of dry
+leaves, which he covered with skins, and, with the Major-domo's aid,
+carefully laid the wounded man upon it; then he lit a fire, and after,
+for the last time repeating to the fugitives the assurance that they
+had nothing to fear, he went off, gliding like a snake through the tall
+grass.
+
+The Major-domo, who was tolerably well acquainted with the manners of
+the adventurers, with whom he had had some relations, though always
+against his will, for, brave though he was, or boasted of being,
+they inspired him with a superstitious terror--reassured the others
+as to their position, by declaring to them, that hospitality was so
+sacred with the buccaneers, that, if they were their most inveterate
+foes instead of quasi guests, as they had only come on their formal
+invitation, they would have nothing to apprehend from them.
+
+In the meanwhile, thanks to the attention which Dona Clara had not
+ceased to bestow on him, the poor monk had returned to his senses.
+Although very weak at first, he gradually regained sufficient
+strength to impart to Dona Clara all that happened to him since their
+separation. This narration, whose conclusion coincided in the minutest
+details with that previously made by the Carib, plunged Dona Clara
+into a state of stupefaction, which soon changed into horror, when she
+reflected on the terrible dangers that menaced her.
+
+In truth, what help could she expect? Who would dare to protect
+her against her husband, whose high position and omnipotence would
+annihilate every effort she might make to escape from his vengeance.
+
+"Courage," the monk murmured, with a tender commiseration, "courage,
+my daughter, above man there is God. Have confidence in Him; He will
+not abandon you: and if everything fail you, He will come to your
+assistance, and interfere in your favour."
+
+Dona Clara, in spite of her perfect faith in the power of Providence,
+only replied to this consolation by tears and sobs; she felt herself
+condemned.
+
+Don Sancho was hurriedly walking up and down in the front of the
+ajoupa, twisting his moustache, stamping his foot passionately, and
+revolving in his head the maddest projects.
+
+"Bah," he muttered, at last, "if that demon will not listen to reason,
+I will blow out his brains, and that will settle everything."
+
+And highly pleased at having, after so many vain researches, discovered
+this expeditious mode of saving his sister from the violence, which the
+desire of vengeance would probably suggest to Don Stenio, the young man
+lit a cigarette, and patiently awaited the return of the buccaneers,
+feeling now quite calm and perfectly reassured about the future.
+
+The Major-domo, who was almost indifferent as to what was going on
+around him, and delighted with the hope of the promised thousand
+piastres, had turned the time to a good use. Reflecting that on their
+return, the buccaneers, doubtless, would not be sorry to find their
+breakfast ready, he had placed in front of the fire an iron pot, in
+which he placed an enormous lump of meat, to boil, with a reasonable
+quantity of water; in lieu of bread, he had thrust several ignamas
+under the ashes, and then busied himself with preparing the pimentado,
+that absolutely necessary sauce for every buccaneer meal.
+
+The fugitives had held possession of the boucan for nearly an hour and
+a half, when they heard furious barking, and some twenty dogs rushed
+howling toward them: but a sharp, though still distant whistle recalled
+them, and they went off again as quickly as they had come.
+
+A few minutes later, the Spaniards perceived the two buccaneers; they
+were running up with a surprising speed, although both bore a load
+weighing upwards of a hundredweight, and were in addition embarrassed
+by their weapons and hunting equipment.
+
+Their first care, on arriving at the boucan, was to throw on the ground
+the eight or ten fresh bull hides, till reeking with blood and grease,
+which they brought, and they then advanced toward the strangers, who,
+on their side, had risen to receive them.
+
+The dogs, as if they had understood that they must maintain a strict
+neutrality, were lying on the grass, but kept their flashing eyes fixed
+on the Spaniards, probably ready to spring at their throat upon the
+first signal.
+
+"You are welcome at the ajoupa," Lepoletais said, doffing his hat with
+a politeness that could hardly have been expected on seeing his rough
+appearance. "So long as you like to remain here, you will be regarded
+as our brothers; whatever we possess is yours, dispose of it as you
+think proper, as well as of our arms, should an occasion offer for you
+to demand our help."
+
+"I thank you in the name of my companions, caballero, and accept your
+kind proposal," Dona Clara answered.
+
+"A woman!" Lepoletais exclaimed, in surprise, "Pardon me, Madam, for
+not recognizing you at once."
+
+"I am, caballero, Dona Clara de Bejar, to whom, as I was informed, you
+have a letter to deliver."
+
+"In that case doubly welcome, madam; as for the note in question, I
+have not the charge of it, but my comrade."
+
+"Zounds," L'Olonnais exclaimed, who had gone up to the wounded man,
+"Omopoua certainly told us that this poor devil of a monk had been
+almost dismasted, but I did not expect to find him in so pitiable a
+state."
+
+"Well," Lepoletais remarked with a frown, "I am not a very religious
+man, but hang me if I should not hesitate to treat a monk in this way;
+only a pagan is capable of committing such a crime."
+
+Then, with a truly filial attention, which the Spaniards admired, the
+rude adventurer set to work, offering some relief to the wounded man's
+intolerable sufferings, in which he entirely succeeded, owing to a long
+practice in treating wounds of every description, and Fray Arsenio soon
+fell into an invigorating sleep.
+
+During this time L'Olonnais had handed to Dona Clara the letter
+which Montbarts had entrusted to him for her, and the young lady had
+withdrawn a little for the purpose of reading it.
+
+"Come, come," L'Olonnais said gaily, as he tapped the Major-domo's
+shoulder, "that is what I call a sensible lad, he has thought of the
+substantials; breakfast is ready."
+
+"If that be the case," Lepoletais said, with a significant wink to his
+comrade; "we will eat double tides, for we shall have work before long."
+
+"Shall we not wait the return of the Indian chief?" Don Sancho asked.
+
+"For what purpose?" L'Olonnais said, with a laugh. "Do not trouble
+yourself about him, my gentleman: he is a long way off if he is still
+running. Each of us has his work cut out for him."
+
+"I don't care!" Lepoletais remarked. "You had a deuced fine scent,
+Senor, in responding to our invitation so quickly!"
+
+"Why so?"
+
+"You will soon know. But now take my advice--recruit your strength by
+eating."
+
+At this moment Dona Clara rejoined the party. Her demeanour was firmer,
+and her face almost gay.
+
+The table was soon laid--leaves serving for plates. They sat down to
+it, that is to say, they formed a circle on the ground, and bravely
+assailed the provisions.
+
+Don Sancho had resumed all his gaiety. This life appeared to him
+delightful, and he laughed heartily, while eating with a good appetite.
+Dona Clara herself, in spite of her inward preoccupation, did honour
+to this improvised banquet.
+
+"Up! my darlings," Lepoletais had said to his dogs. "Tally ho! No
+idleness, but go and watch the approaches while we are breakfasting.
+Your share shall be kept."
+
+The dogs had risen with admirable obedience, and turning their backs on
+the boucans, scattered in all directions, and speedily disappeared.
+
+"Yours are first-rate dogs," said Don Sancho.
+
+"You Spaniards are good judges of that," the buccaneer replied,
+mockingly.
+
+The gentleman felt the sting, and did not deem it advisable to dwell
+on the subject. In fact, it was at Saint Domingo that the Spaniards
+inaugurated the frightful custom of training bloodhounds to hunt the
+Indians, and employing them as auxiliaries in their wars.
+
+The breakfast was concluded without any fresh incident worthy of
+remark, and the most perfect cordiality prevailed during the repast.
+
+When the masters had finished, it was the turn of the servants; that
+is to say, L'Olonnais whistled up the dogs, which in an instant were
+collected round him, and gave them their share in equal portions.
+
+The buccaneers, leaving their guests, and at liberty to employ their
+time as they thought proper, were soon actively busied in preparing
+their hides.
+
+Several hours passed in this way. About three in the afternoon a dog
+barked, and then held its tongue.
+
+We have forgotten to state that, after their meal, the dogs returned to
+their posts at a signal from the engage.
+
+The two buccaneers exchanged a glance.
+
+"One!" said L'Olonnais.
+
+"Two!" Lepoletais almost immediately answered on a second bark, which
+broke out in a different direction.
+
+Ere long, like an electric current, the challenges of the hounds
+succeeded each other with extreme rapidity, raised in all directions.
+
+Still, nothing seemed to justify these warnings given by the sentries.
+No suspicious sound could be heard, and the savannah seemed to be
+plunged into the most perfect solitude.
+
+"I beg your pardon, caballero," Don Sancho said to Lepoletais, who
+continued his task with the same ardor, while laughing merrily with his
+comrade; "but will you permit me to ask you a question?"
+
+"Do so, do so, my good gentleman. It is at times well to ask questions:
+besides, if the question does not suit me, I shall be at liberty not to
+answer it, I suppose?"
+
+"Oh! Of course."
+
+"In that case, speak without fear."
+
+"For some minutes past your dogs seem to have been giving you
+signals--or, at least, I suppose so?"
+
+"You suppose right, caballero. They are really signals."
+
+"And would there be any indiscretion in asking you the meaning of the
+signals?"
+
+"Not the least in the world, senor, especially as they interest you
+quite as much as us."
+
+"I do not understand you."
+
+"You will soon do so. These signals signify that the savannah is at
+this moment invaded by several Fifties, which are manoeuvring to
+surround us."
+
+"_iDiablos!_" the young man exclaimed, with a start of surprise: "And
+you do not feel more affected than that?"
+
+"Why anticipate anxiety? My comrade and I had a pressing job which we
+were obliged to finish. Now that it is done, we are going to turn our
+attention to the senores."
+
+"But we cannot possibly resist so many enemies?"
+
+"Ah! Ah! Do you really feel inclined for a brush?"
+
+"S'death! My sister and I are incurring quite as much danger as you,
+and we have not a minute to lose in attempting flight."
+
+"Flight?" the buccaneer said, with a grin; "Nonsense! You must be
+laughing, my gentleman: we are enclosed in an impassable circle--or
+what looks so."
+
+"In that case, we are lost."
+
+"How you go on! On the contrary, they are lost."
+
+"They? Why, we are only four against a hundred."
+
+"You are mistaken. There are two hundred; and that makes fifty for each
+of us. Call in the dogs, L'Olonnais; they are now useless. Stay! Look
+there; can you see them?"
+
+And he stretched his arm out straight ahead.
+
+In fact, the long lances of the Spanish soldiers appeared above the
+tall grass. Lepoletais had told the truth. These lances formed a
+circle, which was being more and more contracted round the boucan.
+
+"Come! That is rather neat," the buccaneer added, as he affectionately
+tapped the butt of his long fusil.
+
+"Senora," he added, "keep by the side of the wounded man."
+
+"Oh! Let me give myself up," she exclaimed, frantically. "It is on my
+account that this terrible danger menaces you."
+
+"Senora," the buccaneer replied, as he struck his chest with a gesture
+of supreme majesty; "you are under the safeguard of my honour, and I
+swear by Heaven, that no one, so long as I live, shall dare to lay a
+finger upon you! Go to the wounded man."
+
+Involuntarily subdued by the accent with which the buccaneer uttered
+these words, Dona Clara bowed without replying, and pensively seated
+herself inside the ajoupa, by the side of Fray Arsenio, who was still
+asleep.
+
+"Now, caballero," Lepoletais said to Don Sancho, "if you have never
+been present at a buccaneering expedition, I promise you you are going
+to see some fun, and enjoy yourself."
+
+"Well," the young man replied, recklessly; "I will fight, if I must. It
+is a glorious death for a gentleman, to die sword in hand!"
+
+"Come," said the buccaneer, as he gave him a friendly tap on the
+shoulder; "you are a fine lad. Something can be made of you."
+
+The Fifties still approached, and the circle grew more and more
+contracted.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+THE EXTERMINATOR.
+
+
+For some minutes a mournful silence--a complete calm, which, however,
+was loaded with menace, hung heavily over the savannah.
+
+At a whistle from the engage, the dogs ranged themselves behind their
+masters, with heads down, lips drawn back to display their sharp teeth,
+and flashing eyes, they awaited the order to rush forward, though
+without giving the slightest bark or growl.
+
+L'Olonnais, leaning on his long fusil, was smoking his pipe quietly,
+while casting sarcastic glances around.
+
+Lepoletais occupied himself with the utmost order in arranging various
+articles which had been deranged during his morning's operations.
+
+The Major-domo, though in his heart he felt very anxious as to the
+result of this apparently so disproportionate combat, was obliged to
+grin and bear it--to use a familiar expression; for he was aware that
+if he fell into the hands of his master, he had no mercy to expect
+from him, after the manner in which he had thwarted his projects, by
+favouring the flight of the Countess.
+
+Don Sancho de Penaflor, in spite of his natural levity and warlike
+character, was not without anxiety either, for, as an officer of the
+Spanish army, his place was not in the ranks of the buccaneers, but
+with the soldiers who were preparing to attack them.
+
+Dona Clara, kneeling by the side of the monk, with clasped hands,
+eyes raised to heaven, and face inundated with tears, was fervently
+imploring the protection of the Almighty.
+
+As for Fray Arsenio, he was quietly sleeping.
+
+Such was the picturesque aspect, imposing in its simplicity, offered
+at this moment by the camp of the adventurers. Four men were preparing
+coolly, and as if for the mere fun of the thing, to contend against
+upwards of two hundred regular troops, from whom they knew that they
+had no quarter to expect, but whom their insane resistance would
+probably exasperate, and urge to measures of cruel violence.
+
+In the meanwhile the circle was more and more contracted, and the heads
+of the soldiers were already beginning to appear above the tall grass.
+
+"Ah, ah!" said Lepoletais, rubbing his horney hands together with an
+air of triumph--"I fancy it is time to open the ball; what do you say,
+my boy?"
+
+"Yes, this is the right moment," the engage replied, as he went to
+fetch a log from the fire.
+
+"Mind not to stir from the spot where you are," Lepoletais recommended
+the two Spaniards: "zounds! pay attention to this, or you will run a
+risk of having your goose cooked," and he laid a stress on the last
+words, with an evidently sarcastic meaning.
+
+The buccaneers, before establishing their bivouac, had pulled up the
+grass for a distance of about thirty paces all around the ajoupa; this
+grass, dried and calcined by the heat of the sun, had been piled up at
+the border of the cleared ground.
+
+The engage laid down his fusil, walked straight to this grass, set it
+on fire, and then slowly returned to rejoin his companions.
+
+The effect of this manoeuvre was instantaneous, a jet of flame suddenly
+burst out, spread in all directions, and soon a large portion of the
+savannah presented the appearance of a vast furnace.
+
+The buccaneers laughed heartily at what they considered an excellent
+joke.
+
+The Spaniards, taken unawares, uttered cries of terror, and rapidly
+recoiled, pursued by the flame, which constantly spread, and
+continually advanced toward them.
+
+Still, it was evident that the adventurers had no intention of
+burning the unfortunate Spaniards alive; the fire lit by them had not
+sufficient consistency for that; the grass burned and went out again
+with extreme rapidity. Doubtless the sole result that the buccaneers
+had wished to obtain, was to cause a panic terror to their enemies,
+and cast disorder among them; and in this they had been perfectly
+successful.
+
+The soldiers, half roasted by the flames, fled, uttering cries of
+terror before this sea of fire, which seemed incessantly to pursue
+them, without thinking of looking back, or obeying their officers, and
+having but one thought, escaping the terrible danger that menaced them.
+
+While this was going on Lepoletais coolly explained to Don Sancho the
+probable results of the expedient he had employed.
+
+"You see, Senor," he said, "this blaze is nothing; it is an almost
+inoffensive straw fire; in a few minutes, or half an hour at the
+latest, it will be extinguished. If these men are cowards we shall have
+got rid of them, if not, they will return, and then the affair will be
+serious."
+
+"But, as you recognize the inefficiency of this means, why did you
+employ it? In my opinion it is more injurious than usual to our
+defence."
+
+The buccaneer shook his head several times.
+
+"You do not understand," he said; "I had several motives for acting
+thus. In the first place, however brave you may suppose your countrymen
+to be, they are now demoralised, and it will be very difficult to
+restore them the courage they no longer possess; on the other hand,
+I was not sorry to see clearly around me, and sweep the savannah a
+little, and lastly," he added, with a cunning look, "who told you that
+the fire I lighted was not a signal?"
+
+"A signal?" Don Sancho exclaimed; "Then you have friends near here?"
+
+"Who knows? Senor, my companions are very active, and are frequently
+met with when least expected."
+
+"I confess that I do not understand a word of what you are saying to
+me."
+
+"Patience, Senor, patience! You will soon understand, I assure you,
+and will not require any great effort of the intellect to do so.
+L'Olonnais," he added, turning to his comrade, "I think you had better
+go down there now."
+
+"That is true," L'Olonnais replied, as he carelessly threw his fusil
+over his shoulder, "he will be expecting me."
+
+"Take some of the dogs with you."
+
+"What for?"
+
+"To guide you, my lad; it is not easy now to find one's way through the
+ashes, for all the trails are covered."
+
+The engage called several dogs by their name, and went off without
+replying, followed by a portion of the pack.
+
+"There," Lepoletais continued, pointing to the engage, who seemed to be
+running, as he went at such a pace, "just look at that fellow, he is a
+fine chap, eh? And how he behaves, though he has not been more than two
+months in America; in three years from this time I predict to you that
+he will be one of our most celebrated adventurers."
+
+"Did you buy him?" Don Sancho asked, though but little interested in
+details which had no importance for him.
+
+"Unluckily, no, he has only been lent to me for a few days; he is
+the engage of Montbarts the Exterminator: I offered him two hundred
+piastres for him, but he refused to sell him."
+
+"What?" the young man exclaimed--"Montbarts, the celebrated filibuster?"
+
+"The very man; he is a friend of mine."
+
+"In that case he is close at hand?"
+
+"That, Senor, is one of the things which you will learn shortly."
+
+As the buccaneer had foreseen, the fire went out almost as quickly as
+it blazed up, for want of aliment on this savannah, where only grass
+and a few insignificant shrubs grew.
+
+The Spaniards had sought shelter on the banks of the stream, whose
+barren sand preserved them from contact with the fire. The forests,
+too remote from the scene of the fire, had not caught, although a few
+tongues of flame had played round their edge.
+
+From the boucan it was easy to perceive the Spanish officers striving
+to restore some degree of order among their troops, doubtless for the
+purpose of attempting a new attack, although Lepoletais did not appear
+at all alarmed. Among the officers one was especially remarkable; he
+was on horseback, and was taking immense trouble to form the ranks, and
+the other officers came up in turn to receive his orders.
+
+This officer Don Sancho recognized at the first glance.
+
+"This is what I feared," he muttered; "the Count has placed himself at
+the head of the expedition, and we are lost."
+
+In truth, it was Don Stenio de Bejar, who, on arriving at the hatto at
+daybreak, and learning the flight of the Countess, resolved to command
+the expedition.
+
+The position of the adventurers was critical, reduced as they were
+to three, encamped in the middle of a bare plain, and without
+entrenchments of any description. Still, the confidence of the
+buccaneer did not seem diminished, and it was with an ironical air that
+he examined the preparations the enemy was making against him.
+
+The Spaniards, formed again with great difficulty by the energy of
+their officers, at last started, and proceeded once more toward the
+boucan, while taking the same precautions as before, that is to say,
+being careful to extend their front, so as to form a complete circle,
+and entirely surround the encampment.
+
+But the march of the Fifties was slow and measured; it was only with
+extreme caution that the soldiers ventured on this scarcely cooled
+ground, which might conceal fresh snares.
+
+The Count, pointing to the boucan with his sword, in vain excited his
+troops to press on, and finish with this handful of scoundrels who
+dared to oppose His Majesty's troops; the soldiers would not listen,
+and only advanced with greater caution, for the calmness and apparent
+negligence of their enemies frightened them more than a hostile
+demonstration, and must, in their opinion, be owing to some terrible
+trap laid for them.
+
+At this moment the situation was complicated by a strange episode; a
+canoe crossed the stream, and ran ashore exactly at the spot which the
+Spaniards had quitted only a few minutes previously.
+
+This canoe contained five persons, three adventurers, and two Spaniards.
+
+The adventurers stepped ashore as calmly as if they; were quite alone,
+and pushing the two Spaniards before them, advanced resolutely toward
+the soldiers.
+
+The latter, astonished, confounded at such audacity, watched them
+coming without daring to make a movement to oppose them.
+
+These three adventurers were Montbarts, Michael the Basque, and
+L'Olonnais, and seven or eight dogs followed them. The two Spaniards
+walked unarmed in front of them, being alarmed about their fate, as was
+proved by the pallor of their faces, and the startled glances which
+they threw around them.
+
+The Count, on perceiving the adventurers, uttered a cry of rage, and
+bounded with uplifted sword to meet them.
+
+"Down with the ladrones!" he cried.
+
+The soldiers, ashamed of being held in check by three men, wheeled
+round, and boldly advanced.
+
+The adventurers were surrounded in an instant; but, without displaying
+the slightest surprise at this manoeuvre, they also halted, and
+standing shoulder to shoulder, faced all sides at once.
+
+The soldiers instinctively stopped.
+
+"Death!" the Count cried; "No mercy for the ladrones!"
+
+"Silence," Montbarts replied; "before menacing, listen to the news
+these two couriers bring you."
+
+"Seize these villains!" the Count yelled again. "Kill them like dogs!"
+
+"Nonsense," Montbarts remarked, ironically; "you are mad, my worthy
+sir. Seize us! Why, I defy you to do it."
+
+The three adventurers then emptied their powder flasks into their caps,
+and placed their bullets on the top of it; then, holding in one hand
+their caps thus converted into grenades, and in the other their lighted
+pipes, they waited for the signal.
+
+"Attention, brothers," Montbarts said; "and you scoundrels, make way,
+there, unless you wish us to blow you all up."
+
+And with a firm and measured step the three adventurers advanced toward
+the Spaniards, who were struck with terror, and really opened their
+ranks to make a passage for them.
+
+"Oh!" Montbarts added, with a laugh, "Do not fear that we shall attempt
+to fly; we only want to join our comrades."
+
+Then was witnessed the extraordinary scene of two hundred men timidly
+following at a respectful distance three filibusters, who, while
+walking and smoking to keep their pipes from going out, did not cease
+from jeering them for their cowardice.
+
+Lepoletais was quite wild with delight: as for Don Sancho, he did
+not know whether to feel most astonished at the mad temerity of the
+French, or the cowardice of his countrymen.
+
+The three adventurers thus most easily effected their junction with
+their companions without having been once disturbed by the Spaniards
+during a rather long walk. In spite of the prayers and exhortations of
+the Count to his soldiers, the only thing he obtained from them was,
+that they continued to advance instead of retreating, as they had a
+manifest intention of doing.
+
+But, while the adventurers thus drew the soldiers after them, and
+concentrated their entire attention, a thing was happening which the
+Count perceived when too late, and which began to cause him serious
+alarm as to the result of his expedition.
+
+In the rear of the centre formed by the Spanish soldiers, another
+circle had been drawn up as if by enchantment, but the latter was
+composed of buccaneers and red Caribs, at whose head Omopoua made
+himself remarkable.
+
+The adventurers and Indians had manoeuvred with so much intelligence,
+vivacity, and silence, that the Spaniards were enveloped in a network
+of steel, even before they had suspected the danger that menaced them.
+
+The Count uttered an exclamation of rage, to which the soldiers
+responded by a cry of terror.
+
+The situation was, in fact, extremely critical for the unhappy
+Spaniards, and unless a miracle occurred, it was literally impossible
+for them to escape death.
+
+In fact they had no longer to contend against a few men, resolute, it
+is true, but whom numbers must eventually conquer, even at a sacrifice;
+the filibusters were at least two hundred, and with their allies the
+Caribs, formed an effective strength of five hundred men, all as brave
+lions, and three hundred more than the Spaniards; the latter understood
+that they were lost.
+
+On arriving at the boucan, directly that he had squeezed Lepoletais'
+hand and complimented him on the way in which he had contrived to
+gain time, Montbarts gravely occupied himself with his comrades, in
+restoring the powder and bullets to their respective receptacles, as he
+probably judged that their caps might now be used for their legitimate
+purpose.
+
+While the filibuster was engaged in this occupation, Dona Clara, pale
+as a corpse, fixed on him burning glances, though she did not venture
+to approach him. At length she took courage, advanced a few paces and
+murmured with an effort in a trembling voice and with clasped hands,--
+
+"I am here, sir."
+
+Montbarts trembled at the sound of this voice, and turned pale; but he
+made an effort over himself and softened the rather hard expression of
+his eye.
+
+"I have come solely on your account, Madam," he replied with a polite
+bow; "I shall have the honour of placing myself at your orders in
+a moment; permit me first to make sure that our interview will be
+uninterrupted."
+
+Dona Clara hung her head and returned to her seat by the wounded man.
+
+The adventurers had continued to advance and were soon scarce ten paces
+from the Spaniards, whose terror was augmented by this disagreeable
+vicinity.
+
+"Hola, brothers!" Montbarts shouted in a powerful voice; "Halt, if you
+please."
+
+The filibusters instantaneously became motionless.
+
+"And now, you fellows," the Admiral continued, addressing the soldiers;
+"throw down your arms, unless you wish to be immediately shot."
+
+All the lances and swords fell on the ground with a unanimity which
+proved the desire of the soldiers not to have the menace carried into
+effect.
+
+"Surrender your sword, sir," Montbarts said to the Count.
+
+"Never!" the latter exclaimed, as he made his horse curvet, and
+advanced with upraised blade on the adventurer, from whom he was only
+three paces distant.
+
+At the same instant a fusil was discharged and the sword blade, struck
+within an inch of the guard, was shivered; the Count found himself
+disarmed. With a sudden movement Montbarts seized the horse's bridle
+with one hand, and with the other hurled the Count from the saddle and
+laid him prostrate on the ground.
+
+"Patatras!" Lepoletais said laughingly, while reloading his fusil;
+"What a deuced funny idea to try alone to resist five hundred men."
+
+The Count rose quite confused by his fall; a livid pallor covered his
+face, and his features were contracted by anger; all at once his eyes
+fell upon the Countess.
+
+"Ah!" He yelled with the cry of a tiger, as he darted towards her, "At
+least I shall avenge myself."
+
+But Montbarts seized him by the arm and rendered him motionless.
+
+"One word, one gesture, and I blow out your brains like the wild beast
+you are," he said to him.
+
+There was such an accent of menace in the filibuster's words; his
+interference had been so rapid that the Count, involuntarily cowed,
+fell back with his arms folded on his chest and remained apparently
+calm, although a volcano was at work in his heart, and his eyes were
+obstinately fixed on the Countess.
+
+Montbarts gazed for a moment at his enemy with an expression of pity
+and contempt.
+
+"You have desired, sir," he at length said to him ironically; "to try
+your strength with the filibusters and will soon learn the cost; while
+impelled by a mad desire of vengeance and inspired by an imaginary
+jealousy, you were virulently pursuing a lady whose noble heart and
+brilliant virtues you are incapable of appreciating, one half of the
+island of which you are the governor has been torn forever from the
+power of your sovereign, by my companions and myself; Tortuga, Leogane,
+San Juan de Goava, and your hatto del Rincon, suddenly surprised, have
+fallen without a blow."
+
+The Count drew himself up, a feverish flush covered his face, he
+advanced a step and cried in a voice choking with passion,--
+
+"You lie, villain; however great your audacity may be, it is impossible
+that you have succeeded in seizing the places you mention."
+
+Montbarts shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"An insult coming from lips like yours has no effect," he said, "you
+shall soon have the confirmation of what I assert; but enough of this
+subject; I wished to have you in my power in order that you may be
+witness of what I have to say to this lady. Come," he added, addressing
+Dona Clara; "come, madam, and forgive me for not wishing to see you
+except in the presence of the man you call your husband."
+
+On hearing the appeal, Dona Clara rose trembling, and tottered forward.
+
+There was a momentary silence; Montbarts, with his head hanging on his
+chest, seemed plunged in bitter thoughts; at length he drew himself up,
+passed his hand over his forehead as if to drive away the mist that
+obscured his reason, turned to Dona Clara, and said to her in a gentle
+voice,--
+
+"You desired to see me, madam, in order to remind me of a time forever
+past, and to confide a secret to me. This secret I have no right to
+know; the Count de Barmont is dead, dead to everybody, to you before
+all, who did not blush to renounce him, and though you belonged to him
+by legitimate ties, and before all by the more legitimate one of a
+powerful love, cowardly permitted yourself to be chained to another;
+this is a crime, madam, which no forgiveness can efface, either in the
+present or past."
+
+"Pity me, sir," the unhappy lady said, as she writhed beneath this
+curse and burst into tears; "pity me, in the name of my remorse and my
+sufferings!"
+
+"What are you doing, madam?" the Count exclaimed, "Rise at once."
+
+"Silence," Montbarts said in a harsh voice, "Allow this culprit to be
+bowed beneath the weight of her repentance; you, who have been her
+executioner, have less right than anyone else to protect her."
+
+Don Sancho had rushed toward his sister and, roughly repulsing the
+Count, raised her in his arms. Montbarts continued.
+
+"I will only add one word, madam; the Count de Barmont had a child; on
+the day when that child comes to ask his mother's pardon of me, I will
+grant it--perhaps," he added in a faint voice.
+
+"Oh!" the young lady exclaimed with a feverish energy, as she seized
+the hand which the filibuster had not the courage to withdraw from her,
+"Oh sir! You are great and noble, this promise restores me all my hope
+and courage; oh! I swear to you, sir, I will find my child again."
+
+"Enough, madam," Montbarts continued with ill suppressed emotion; "this
+interview has lasted too long; here is your brother, he loves you, and
+will be able to protect you; there is another person whom I regret
+not to see here, for he would have advised and sustained you, in your
+affliction."
+
+"To whom do you allude?" Don Sancho asked.
+
+"To the confessor of your sister."
+
+The young man turned away without answering.
+
+"Why, brother," Lepoletais here observed, "here he is half dead, look
+at his burnt hands."
+
+"Oh!" Montbarts exclaimed, "It is really he, who is the monster that
+has dared--"
+
+"Here he is!" the buccaneer replied, as he tapped the shoulder of the
+Count, who was dumb with stupor and horror, for only at this moment did
+he notice his victim.
+
+Two flashes of flame started from Montbart's eyes.
+
+"Villain," he exclaimed, "what, torture an inoffensive man! Oh,
+Spaniards, race of vipers! What sufficiently horrible punishment could
+I inflict on you!"
+
+All his hearers trembled at this passion so long restrained, which had
+at length burst its bonds and now overflowed with irresistible violence.
+
+"By Heaven!" the filibuster exclaimed in a terrible voice, "It is
+the worse for you, butcher, that you remind me I am Montbarts the
+exterminator. L'Olonnais, prepare the fire under the barbacoas of the
+boucan."
+
+An indescribable terror seized on all the hearers of this order,
+which clearly expressed to what a horrible punishment the Count was
+condemned; Don Stenio himself, in spite of his indomitable pride, felt
+a chill at his heart.
+
+But at this moment, the monk, who had hitherto remained motionless on
+his couch, and apparently insensible to what was going on, rose with
+a painful effort, and leaning on the shoulders of Dona Clara and her
+brother, tottered forward, and knelt with them to the filibuster.
+
+"Pity," he exclaimed, "pity, in Heaven's name!"
+
+"No," Montbarts replied harshly, "This man is condemned."
+
+"I implore you, brother, be merciful," the monk went on to urge him.
+
+All at once the Count drew two pistols from his doublet, and pointed
+one at Dona Clara, while he placed the other against his own forehead.
+
+"Of what use is it to implore a tiger," he said, "I die, but by my own
+hands, and I die avenged," and he pulled the trigger.
+
+The double detonation was blended in one.
+
+The Count fell dead on the ground; the second shot badly aimed did not
+strike Dona Clara, but Fray Arsenio, and laid him dying at the foot of
+his assassin. The last word of the poor monk was, "pity!"
+
+And he expired with his eyes fixed on heaven, as if with a last prayer
+addressed in favour of his murderer.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+At sunset the savannah had returned to its habitual solitude;
+Montbarts, after having the victim and the assassin interred in the
+same grave, doubtless that the just man might protect the culprit in
+the presence of the Most High, set out for Port Margot, at the head of
+the filibusters and Caribs.
+
+Dona Clara and her brother returned to the hatto del Rincon,
+accompanied by the Spanish soldiers, to whom Montbarts had consented to
+restore their liberty, through consideration for the two young people.
+
+
+
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