"Not very," Michael replied with a laugh, "besides, he had no choice; he was obliged to give in, whether he liked it or not." As had been arranged, the lugger stood off and on from the island during the whole night, at a distance of from four to five leagues from the coast. At sunrise, they steered directly for St. Marguerite. The breeze had lulled nearer shore, so that it occupied some time ere the light vessel reached the species of port serving as a landing place in front of the castle. The lugger drew too much water for it to be possible to run alongside the quay; hence it lay to a short distance off; and Nicaud had a boat lowered, while Michael went down into the cabin to warn the Major. The latter was awake; refreshed and rested by sleep, he was no longer the same man, he now regarded his position in its true light, and understood that the means offered him to escape from the disagreeable position in which he was placed by his double treachery, was more advantageous than otherwise for him. It was almost with a smile that he wished Michael good day, and he made no difficulty about accepting the hand the sailor offered to him. "Well," he asked him, "whereabouts are we, Michael?" "We have arrived, Major." "Already? Are you not afraid it is too early to go ashore?" "Not at all; it is nine o'clock." "So late? Hang it, it seems that I have slept soundly; in truth, I feel quite jolly this morning." "All the better, Major, that is a good sign; I suppose you remember our arrangements?" "Perfectly." "And you will play fairly with us?" "In my turn I pledge my honour to it, and I will keep it, whatever may happen." "Come, I am glad to hear you talk like that; I am beginning to alter my opinion about you." "Stuff," the Major remarked laughingly, "you do not know me yet." "You are aware that the boat is ready, it is only waiting for you to go ashore." "If that is the case, I will follow you, Michael; I am now as eager as you are to finish the affair." The Major went on deck and got into the boat, which was at once pushed off, and set out for the landing place. Michael's heart beat ready to burst, while he followed with an anxious eye, the light yawl which was rapidly leaving the lugger, and was already close in shore. CHAPTER XI. FRANCE, FAREWELL! The Major had scarce landed at Sainte Marguerite, ere everything were in commotion in the fort. On leaving the isle on the previous evening, the governor had stated that he was going on a journey, and would be absent a week, perhaps two. The Lieutenant, intrusted with the command of the fort during his absence, eagerly hastened to meet him, curious to learn the motive for such a speedy return.