his ship in time to proceed against her with decision, and, as he hoped, with effect.  In addition to this motive for artifice, there was that in the manner and language of the contraband dealer to place him altogether above the ordinary men of his pursuit, and indeed to create in his favor a certain degree of interest, which the officer of the crown was compelled to admit.  He therefore bowed with sufficient courtesy, and professed his readiness to follow the suggestions of the Alderman.

“We have met on neutral ground, Master Seadrift,” said Ludlow to his gay companion, as they quitted the saloon of la Cour des Fees; “and though bent on different objects, we may discourse amicably of the past.  The ‘Skimmer of the Seas’ has a reputation in his way, that almost raises him to the level of a seaman distinguished in a better service.  I will ever testify to his skill and coolness as a mariner, however much I may lament that those fine qualities have received so unhappy a direction.”

“This is speaking with a becoming reservation for the rights of the crown, and with meet respect for die Barons of the Exchequer!” retorted Seadrift, whose former, and we may say natural, spirit seemed to return, as he left the presence of the burgher.  “We follow the pursuit, Captain Ludlow, in which accident has cast our fortunes.  You serve a Queen you never saw, and a nation who will use you in her need and despise you in her prosperity; and I serve myself.  Let reason decide between us.”

“I admire this frankness, Sir, and have hopes of a better understanding between us, now that you have done with the mystifications of your sea-green woman.  The farce has been well enacted; though, with the exception of Oloff Van Staats and those enlightened spirits you lead about the ocean, it has not made many converts to necromancy.”

The free-trader permitted his handsome mouth to relax in a smile.

“We have our mistress, too,” he said; “but she exacts no tribute.  All that is gained goes to enrich her subjects, while all that she knows is cheerfully imparted for their use.  If we are obedient, it is because we have experienced her justice and wisdom I hope Queen Anne deals as kindly by those who risk life and limb in her cause?”

“Is it part of the policy of her you follow, to reveal the fate of the Patroon; for though rivals in one dear object—­or rather I should say, once rivals in that object—­I cannot see a guest quit my ship with so little ceremony, without an interest in his welfare.”

“You make a just distinction,” returned Seadrift, smiling still more meaningly—­“Once rivals is indeed the better expression.  Mr. Van Staats is a brave man, however ignorant he may be of the seaman’s art.  One who has showed so much spirit will be certain of protection from personal injury, in the care of the ‘Skimmer of the Seas.’”

“I do not constitute myself the keeper of Mr. Van Staats; still, as the commander of the ship whence he has been—­what shall I term the manner of his abduction?—­for I would not willingly use, at this moment, a term that may prove disagreeable—­”