'But, my dear Don Pedro, more than half the crews are absent and the ships are without guns.'
'Be sure that I did not fail to inform his Excellency of that. It merely annoyed him. He takes the view that since each ship carries hands enough to sail her, no more is necessary. The Maria Gloriosa is sufficiently armed to protect them.'
'He does not pause, then, to reflect what may happen should they become separated?'
'That also I pointed out. It made no impression. His Excellency is of a high confidence.'
Don Sebastian blew out his cheeks. 'So! So! To be sure, it is his affair. And I thank God for it. The plate–ships have brought trouble enough upon San Juan de Puerto Rico, and I'll be glad to see the last of them. But permit me to observe that your Admiral of the Ocean–Sea is a singularly rash man. It comes, I suppose, of being a royal favourite.'
Don Pedro's sly little smile suggested subtly complete agreement. 'It is understood, then, that you will give orders for the promptest victualling of the ships. His Excellency must not be kept waiting, and, anyway, the ebb will not wait even for him.'
'Oh, perfectly,' said Don Sebastian. Irony exaggerated his submission. 'I will give the orders at once.'
'I will inform his Excellency. He will be gratified. I take my leave, then, Don Sebastian.' They embraced. 'Believe me, I shall long treasure the memory of our happy and profitable association. My homage to Doña Leocadia.'
'But will you not stay to see the hanging of Captain Blood? It is to take place at noon.'
'The Admiral expects me aboard at eight bells. I dare not keep him waiting.'