LAF. I have been a little more flattering. (bows.) I have offered five thousand dollars for yours.
GOV. C. (enraged.) You dare! (to the Chairman.) The guard.
CHAIR. (summoning at back quickly.) The guard! (enter soldiers.)
GOV. C. I order you to—(points to Lafitte; Lafitte takes from his breast a white paper; holds it commandingly aloft; the Governor pauses; waives the soldiers off.) Await further orders. (exeunt soldiers.) Well? It is questionable honor in me to respect even a flag of truce in your hands.—Proceed.
LAF. The British are preparing to attack New Orleans by way of Barataria.
GOV. C. Well sir? You are ready to give them assistance.
LAF. I come to offer my services to the American forces.
CHAIR. A trick.
LAF. For no pay whatever;—to enter the lists merely as a private.
CHAIR. A ruse, sir; a crafty ruse by which to obtain money or honors from the American government. (Lafitte hands the paper to Governor Claiborne.)