«That since ye admit defeat, we will pass to the discussion of terms.»
«Terms? What terms?» The Captain–General's exasperation was swiftly mounting him.
«You shall hear them. First, the twenty thousand pieces of eight that you owe my men for services rendered. Next, thirty thousand for the redemption of the town from the bombardment that is preparing.»
«What? By God, sir …»
«Next,» Captain Blood pursued relentlessly, «ten thousand pieces for your own ransom, ten thousand for the ransom of your own family, and five thousand for that of other persons of consequences in Saint John's, including Captain Macartney here. That makes seventy–five thousand pieces of eight, and they must be paid within the next hour, since later will be too late.»
The Captain–General looked unutterable things. He tried to speak. But speech failed him. He sat down heavily. At last he found his voice. It came thick and quavering.
«You … you abuse my patience! You surely … You think me mad?»
«Best hang him, Colonel, and have done,» Macartney exploded.
«And thereby destroy the colony it is your duty at all costs — at all costs, mark you — to preserve.»
The Captain–General passed a hand across his wet, pallid brow, and groaned.