At the head of the stairs there was another guard to be passed, but this the stranger did with a formal military salute and an air of authority as if his right to enter was beyond question. His manner quieted all suspicion in the mind of the sentinel, and the newcomer entered the governor's room unchallenged, closing the door behind him.
Before him sat the governor-general in a large easy-chair, quite alone and busily engaged in writing. On seeing him thus unattended the weather-beaten face of the stranger took on a look of satisfaction. Evidently his secret plans had worked fully to his desire. Taking off his cloak, he tossed it over his arm, making a noise that attracted the governor's attention. Tacon looked up in surprise, fixing his eyes keenly upon his unlooked-for visitor.
"Who is this that enters, at this late hour, without warning or announcement?" he sternly asked, looking in doubt at the unknown face.
"One who brings information that the governor-general wants. You are he, I believe?"
"I am. What do you want? And how did you, a stranger, pass my guard without challenge?"
"That is not the question. Your Excellency, I understand, has offered a handsome reward to any[pg 283] one who will put you on the track of the rovers of the gulf?"
"Ha! is that your errand?" exclaimed Tacon, with sudden interest. "What know you of them?"
"Excellency, I must speak with caution," said the stranger. "I have my own safety to consider."
"That you need not fear. My offer of reward also carries pardon to the informant. If you are even a member of the confederation itself you will be safe in speaking freely."
"I understand you offer an additional reward, a rich one, for the discovery of Captain Marti, the chief of the smugglers?"