"Nothing is more easy," he said, "than to find the man we want; this is an exceptional case, and we must act according to circumstances. Let us elect a chief, as for a dangerous expedition, let us choose one who is energetic and intelligent, which will be a trifle, as the only difficulty will be the choice among so many equally good. This chief will be elected by us, the first for a year, his successor for only six months, in order to guard against any abuse of power they might eventually be attempted to try. This chief will assume the title of governor, and in reality govern all civil matters, assisted by a council of seven members, chosen by the habitants, as well as by subaltern agents, nominated by himself. The laws he will employ exist, for they are those of our association; it is understood that the governor will watch, like a captain aboard his ship, over the safety of the colony, and, in the event of treachery, will be punishable with death. This proposition is, I believe, the only one that we can take into consideration; does it suit you, brothers? Do you accept it?" The delegates replied by a universal affirmation, "In that case let us at once proceed to the election." "Pardon me, brothers," Belle Tête said, "with your permission, I have a few remarks to submit to the council." "Speak, brother, we will hear you," Montbarts answered him. "I offer myself," Belle Tête said frankly, "as governor, not through ambition, for that would be absurd, but because I believe that I am at this moment the best man for the place; you all know me, and hence I will not put forward my qualifications. Certain reasons urge me to try, if possible, to withdraw my promise, and not follow the expedition; to which, however, I feel convinced that I shall render great services, if you choose me as governor." "You have heard, brethren," Montbarts said, "consult together, but fill your glasses first, you have ten minutes to reflect; at the end of that time all the glasses that have not been emptied will be considered as adverse votes." "Ah, traitor," Michael the Basque said, leaning over to Belle Tête's ear, by whose side he was seated, "I know why you want to stop at Port Margot." "You? Stuff," he answered with embarrassment. "Zounds, it is not difficult to guess, you are caught, mate." "Well, it is true, and you are right, that little devil of a woman I bought at St. Kitts has turned my head; she turns me round her little finger." "Ah! love!" Michael said ironically. "The deuce take love, and the woman too; a girl no bigger than that, whom I could smash with one blow." "She is very pretty, you showed good taste; her name is Louise, is it not?" "Yes, Louise; it was a bad bargain I made." "Nonsense!" Michael said, with the utmost seriousness, "well, there is a way of arranging the matter." "Do you think so?" "Zounds, I am sure of it."