stretched himself on a sofa at the upper end of the cabin.

"Boy," said he, looking me full in the face, "what is your name?"

"Ralph Rover," I replied.

"Where did you come from, and how came you to be on that island?
How many companions had you on it? Answer me, now, and mind you
tell no lies."

"I never tell lies," said I, firmly.

The captain received this reply with a cold sarcastic smile, and
bade me answer his questions.

I then told him the history of myself and my companions from the
time we sailed till the day of his visit to the island, taking
care, however, to make no mention of the Diamond Cave. After I had
concluded, he was silent for a few minutes; then, looking up, he
said - "Boy, I believe you."

I was surprised at this remark, for I could not imagine why he
should not believe me. However, I made no reply.

"And what," continued the captain, "makes you think that this
schooner is a pirate?"

"The black flag," said I, "showed me what you are; and if any
further proof were wanting I have had it in the brutal treatment I
have received at your hands."