unconsciously seem to exert a repressing influence upon you. 'We want them
to feel absolutely free, Captain Kidd,' said they, 'and if we are along
they may not feel so.' The answer was convincing, ladies, and I accepted
the commission."

"But we knew nothing of all this," interposed Elizabeth. "The subject was
not broached to us by our husbands, brothers, _fiancés_, or fathers. My
brother, Sir Walter Raleigh--"

Cleopatra chuckled. "Brother! Brother's good," she said.

"Well, that's what he is," retorted Elizabeth, quickly. "I promised to be
a sister to him, and I'm going to keep my word. That's the kind of a queen
I am. I was about to remark," Elizabeth added, turning to the captain,
"that my brother, Sir Walter Raleigh, never even hinted at any such plan,
and usually he asked my advice in matters of so great importance."

"That is easily accounted for, madame," retorted Kidd. "Sir Walter
intended this as a little surprise for you, that is all. The arrangements
were all placed in his hands, and it was he who bound us all to secrecy.
None of the ladies were to be informed of it."

"It does not sound altogether plausible," interposed Portia. "If you
ladies do not object, I should like to cross-examine this--ah--gentleman."

Kidd paled visibly. He was not prepared for any such trial; however, he
put as good a face on the matter as he could, and announced his
willingness to answer any questions that he might be asked.

[Illustration: CAPTAIN KIDD CONSENTS TO BE CROSS-EXAMINED BY PORTIA]