It was incredible, and yet beyond a doubt it was true. For all
the love which he had showered upon Lionel, for all the sacrifices of
self which he had made to shield him, this was Lionel's return. Were
all the world against him he still must have believed Lionel true to
him, and in that belief must have been enheartened a little. And
now...His sense of loneliness, of utter destitution overwhelmed him.
Then slowly of his sorrow resentment was begotten, and being begotten it
grew rapidly until it filled his mind and whelmed in its turn all else.
He threw back his great head, and his bloodshot, gleaming eyes fastened
upon Captain Leigh, who seated now upon the sea-chest was quietly
observing him and waiting patiently until he should recover the wits
which this revelation had scattered.
"Master Leigh," said he, what is your price to carry me home again to
England?"
"Why, Sir Oliver," said he, "I think the price I was paid to carry you
off would be a fair one. The one would wipe out t'other as it were."
"You shall have twice the sum when you land me on Trefusis Point again,"
was the instant answer.
The captain's little eyes blinked and his shaggy red eyebrows came
together in a frown. Here was too speedy an acquiescence. There must
be guile behind it, or he knew naught of the ways of men.
"What mischief are ye brooding?" he sneered.
"Mischief, man? To you?" Sir Oliver laughed hoarsely.
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