alone. What is it you are so afraid of--a woman?"

The expression of Estada's face promised an outburst of profanity,
but, instead of giving it utterance, he lifted his cap in a sudden
pretense at gallantry.

"Your pardon, Senorita," he said in a tone of humble mockery. "If you
have come to your senses at last, it is well. No one can be happier
than I. Leave her alone, men. Now, my beauty, I am taking you at your
own word--a step, and then the protection of my hand. We welcome you,
as a guest aboard."

A moment and she had attained the deck. Where she stood I could no
longer see her face, yet she remained there silent and motionless,
rather stiffly erect as she faced him. Frightened, and helpless as she
was, yet her very posture seemed to express the detestation she felt
for the man. But Estada, apparently pleased with his performance thus
far, chose to continue playing the fool.

"Thanks, Senorita--thanks," he began softly, and again bowing before
her, cap in hand. "We greet you with due honor aboard the _Namur_--"

"Enough of that, you coward, you murderer," she broke in coldly. "Do
not touch nor speak to me."

She turned her back on him, thus coming face to face with LeVere, who
stood enjoying the scene, a wide grin on his dark face, revealing a
row of white teeth under a jet-black moustache.

"You, sir--you are an officer?"