"I am at the orders of these gentlemen," replied the captain. "I shall be happy to do all in my power for them."
"Spoken like a man," said the major in a fidgety way. "But this seems hardly the place for a serious conversation."
"I am sorry for it," replied Tom Mitchell coldly. "I was not told until the last minute, and you must take me in the rough."
"Why not go over to the island?" suggested the major. "I dare say we should be more at our ease—eh, captain?"
"I am sorry, major, but it would take too much time. Besides, I have already provided refreshments here, if you will accept."
"With the greatest of pleasure," cried the major, coughing behind his hand; "and yet these gentlemen have important matters to discuss, very important matters," he added, complacently.
"What matter, major? Breakfast first, business afterwards."
"As you will," said the major, following him into the hut.
By the orders of Camotte, during this conversation a very copious breakfast had been prepared. It was almost wholly composed of venison; but flanking the solids were a number of long-necked bottles that at once showed their Bordeaux and Burgundian origin, to say nothing of some brands of Champagne so dear to Americans.
The major was so delighted that he said "Hum!" no less than three times, and then spoke to the outlaw chief.