"Let them say what they like," he cried, "you are a man." "I am proud to hear it," cried Tom. "Let us be seated." The Frenchmen had hitherto said nothing. The elder now spoke. As the captain invited them to commence breakfast, he said: "Above all, sir, allow me to observe that before commencing business you offer us bread and salt." "You are my guests, gentlemen," said the captain, gravely; "you are under the safeguard of my honour, that is enough." "The major has indicated that we each wish to see you alone." "Which means?" asked the outlaw. "That I desire, as these conversations may probably be of very long duration, to see you quite alone," he added. "Sit down and eat," replied the outlaw. "After the repast you and your companions will follow me to the island. Once more, are you not satisfied?" "Of course," cried the major; "if not, I go bail for you." "Thank you, major; and now eat, drink, and be merry." CHAPTER XVI. TOM MITCHELL AS REDRESSER OF WRONGS. The ice once broken, through the instrumentality of the Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Champagne, all went on swimmingly. Major Ardenwood, who, perhaps, alone of all those present had nothing to conceal, and who was naturally a bon vivant, did all in his power to make himself the convivial leader of this improvised party, composed of so many various elements. He was warmly supported by the captain, who showed all the best qualities of a true amphitrion, and treated his guests with a generosity and courtesy which quite charmed them. Of course not a word was said of the object for which they had met. In fact, the subject was carefully avoided. The major was the first to rise. "The best of friends," he said, "must part. I am wanted at the fort, and with your permission will retire." "I thought," observed the captain of the outlaws, "your intention was to wait for these gentlemen here." "No; on reflection," replied the major, laughing, "I should only be in their way. I will wait at the fort." "I will escort them myself," said Tom Mitchell. "That will be the better plan," continued the major. "Thanks for your hospitality. The wines were excellent." "I will send you a few baskets, major." "Many thanks," cried the American, shaking hands, and then departing under the guidance of Camotte. "We can now go to the island," said the captain. "On foot, on horseback, or do we swim?" said the young Frenchman. "You will see. Follow me, gentlemen," replied Tom. They did so, and found a boat ready for their reception. On the invitation of the captain they all seated themselves. "Now, gentlemen," said Tom Mitchell, with a smile, "you must pardon me, but I must blindfold you. Fear nothing," he added, as he saw them start. "It is the custom. No stranger has ever entered the island in any other way. Besides, you are not obliged; only if you refuse you must return." "Do as you like," cried the elder Frenchman.