"Thou dost remember that the priest warned us of the lad, that he was a sworn henchman of this man.
"True, Sir James," Drake answered; then turning to me, "Thou surely dost not expect me to believe this, Sir Thomas?"
I arose and bowed.
"In that event, I wait only to be shown the room in which I am to be confined," I said.
Unbuckling my sword, I laid it sheathed upon the table.
"Can I leave it in thy hands until I claim it again?" I asked. "I have endeavored to keep the blade bright and spotless since I have worn it. Some day, when I have cleared myself from this false charge, I will ask it back from thee."
He bowed his head gravely.
"When thou askest for it again, it shall be thine. I pray God that thou mayst be innocent of this charge, but——" and he shook his head gloomily.
And so between two men I passed up the great stairs and into the room which I had left last night; the star of the pirates had waned and set for aye, and the isle was now in the power of the English. Events had transpired quickly, but still I was a prisoner. The door closed, and I heard the key turn in the lock.
Someone ran forward from the corner of the room—it was Oliver, his face radiant with delight.