"Suppose what you like, I do not care; but tell me your propositions, so that I may know whether my honour allows me to accept them or forces me to refuse them." Michael began laughing unceremoniously at this outburst, by which the Major sought to mask his capitulation. "Instead of going to Paris," he said, "you will simply return to Sainte Marguerite. You will go to the Count, tell him he is free, and then return with him on board the lugger, which will wait for you. When the Count and yourself are on board, the lugger will stand out to sea. Then I will restore you your diamond and pay you the amount agreed on; and as probably you will not care to resume the command of your castle after such a frolic, I will convey you, and your wealth wherever you like, in order to enjoy it without fear of being disturbed." "But," the Major observed, "what shall I tell the Count to persuade him that he is free by the King's orders?" "That does not concern me, it is your affair; but hang it all, my dear Major, you are unjust to yourself in raising any doubts as to the power of your imagination. Now what do you think of my proposition, and do you accept it?" "What security have I that you are not deceiving me, and that when I have fulfilled the conditions of the bargain you impose on me, you keep yours as strictly?" "The word of a honest man, sir, a word, which though that of a plain sailor, is worth that of a gentleman." "I believe you, sir," the Major answered, lowering his eyes before Michael's flashing glance. "Then, that is settled?" "Yes, it is." "All right. Hallo! Nicaud!" Michael shouted. The skipper arrived with a speed that proved he had not been far from the two speakers. "Here I am, Michael, what do you want?" "Where are we at this moment?" the sailor asked. "About five leagues to windward of Sainte Marguerite." "Very good! Keep on the same course till daybreak; at sunrise we will stand for the island, and anchor off it." "Very good, I understand." "Ah! Here is Mr. Governor, who I think, has great want of a little rest; can't you put him up somewhere where he will be able to sleep for two or three hours?" "Nothing easier, as I shall not turn in tonight, nor you, I suppose, my cabin is at the Major's service, if he will do me the honour of accepting it." The old officer was really worn out, not only by the fatigue of a long watch, but also by the emotions he had suffered from during the night. Certain that he had now no apprehensions about his safety, he heartily accepted the skipper's offer, and withdrew into the cabin, the door of which the other politely opened for him. The two sailors went up on deck again. "This time," said Michael, "I believe that we have manoeuvred cleverly, and that our plan will succeed." "I am beginning to be of your opinion; but I say, wasn't that old cormorant of a governor tough?"