common sea-captain, for we have hoodwinked the
commandantes more than once. But aside from the
suspicion and distrust in which Spain holds Russia
--with so distinguished a visitor as your excellency,
it would be impossible to traffic undetected. But
there must be a way out. There shall be! And will
your excellency kindly let us see the cargo? I am
sure there is much we sadly need: cloth, linen, cot-
ton, boots, shoes, casks, bottles, glasses, plates,
shears, axes, implements of husbandry, saws, sheep-
shears, iron wares--have you any of these things,
Excellency?"

"All and more. Will you come to-morrow?"

"We will! and one way or another they shall be
ours and you shall have breadstuffs for your pitiable
subjects. We have as much need of Europe as you
can have of California, for Mexico is dilatory and
often disregards our orders altogether. One way
or another--we have your promise, Excellency?"

"I shall not leave California without accomplish-
ing what I came for," said Rezanov.



VIII

Concha boxed Rosa's ears twice while being