“Let the meeting be postponed; or, if you see fit, I will attend to the initiation in your absence.  Choose yourself between the two measures.”

“I will let you preside at the meeting, then; we have need of a few additions to our number, when we can find the right kind of fellows; and from all I can learn, this Hurd is made of the right stuff.  See that everything is done strictly in order.”

“I will attend to that.  But had you not better announce this arrangement to the members present?  They are all here yet, I believe.”

In accordance with this suggestion, those of the clan present were notified of the captain’s probable absence at their next meeting, and that Lieutenant Duffel would act in his place in the interim, to whom all reports must be made, and from whom all orders must emanate and be obeyed.  After this was arranged, Duffel, who was highly pleased at the working of things, again drew his superior aside, and said: 

“I have now a request to make of you, captain, which, if compatible with your wishes and convenience, I hope you will see fit to grant.”

“I shall be most happy to grant anything in my power, be assured of that fact.”

“I know your good will and generosity are great, or I should not ask the favor I am about to crave, which is, that you will allow me the use of your private room here during your absence.  I have a particular reason for desiring this favor.”

“I perceive so by your earnestness.  I hardly know how to grant your request, without delaying my departure.”

“Oh, never mind, then, I can manage to get along without it.”

“No, you shall have it.  I mind now of a method by which all necessary arrangements can be made to-night; and you may find it a very convenient place to tame some obstinate fair one.  Oh, not a word; I understand these matters.  Excuse me for a couple of hours, and I will bring you the key.”

With these words, the captain went to his room, into which he had no sooner entered, than Duffel sought the presence of the desperadoes, two of whom—­the ones that had taken a dislike to Duval—­he engaged in conversation.  When assured that no one was sufficiently near or attentive to hear what passed between them, he said: 

“My good fellows, I see we are alone, and I should be pleased to have a little private and confidential conversation with you.”

“We shall be happy to hear anything Lieutenant Duffel may be pleased to communicate, and feel highly flattered by his confidence,” replied one of them, speaking for both.

“Thank you.  I presume it is not necessary for me to pledge you to secrecy in regard to any transactions that may take place, either in word or deed, as you will feel bound by honor to look upon all confidential communications and proceedings as sacredly and faithfully to be kept in your own bosoms.”

“You but do us justice in entertaining such opinions, and, without the asking on your part, we most solemnly pledge our word, even unto death, that what your honor may please to say to us shall be kept a most inviolable secret, which nothing shall extort from us.”