"I am well aware of our wholesome laws on this subject," said the
insinuating accuser; "I do not charge Duval with being certainly
disaffected, but I have my suspicions that all is not right, and suggest,
that your honor and the brethren will do well to watch his movements. If in
my over-zeal for the good of the order I go too far in this matter, I crave
the forgiveness of the brethren."

"We appreciate your motives, but advise great care and the possession of
very strong evidence of guilt, by the accuser, ere charges are preferred
against a member of our order. The rule on this subject must and shall be
enforced. Our worthy lieutenant, who often meets with our brother Duval,
will see him and ascertain the cause of his absence, as, also, his feelings
toward the order."

The captain was evidently not well pleased with the course pursued by these
men in regard to Duval; most likely, he suspected there was a conspiracy
between them, having its foundation on some ill will these desperadoes had
conceived against the absentee. This was really the case, whatever were the
leader's thoughts. The two had sworn to stand by each other, in all times
of need and in all matters of rascality. Duval had unintentionally insulted
one of them, hence the insinuation against him in the order. Perhaps their
case will come up again in the course of our story. So soon as this matter
was disposed of, the captain inquired:

"Are there any applications for admission into our order?"

"One, if you please," replied the secretary. "Abram Hurd wishes to become a
member with us."