able Dr. Langsdorff, there is no time to lose. I
shall go this morning. One more cigarito, senor,
and when that treaty is drawn remember the con-
version of your brother to Russian tobacco."

Rezanov thanked him so warmly, assured him
with so convincing an emphasis that with his fate
in such competent hands his mind was at peace, that
the ardent heart of the Californian exulted; Rez-
anov, with his splendid appearance, and typical of
the highest civilizations of Europe, had descended
upon his narrow sphere with the authority of a
demigod, and he not only thirsted to serve him, but
to fasten him to California with the surest of human
bonds.

As he dropped over the side of the ship, Rezanov's
hand fell lightly on the shoulder of Santiago.

"I can wait no longer to see your sister," he
whispered, mindful of the sterner responsibilities of
the older brother. "Do you think you could--"

Santiago nodded. "While Luis is at the Mission
I shall go to my cousin Juan Moraga's. You will
dine with us at the Presidio, and I shall escort you
back to the ship."