ivine truth which it is our purpose to impart, we will,
by God's grace, defeat their designs and bring to naught their
inventions. In this Christian work it may be my desire to engage your
services, Sir Christopher."

"It needs not that I should make protestations of zeal, or offers of
my poor self; yet do my feelings prompt me to say that my badge 'the
honey-bee,' is not more diligent in collecting his precious store than
I will be in such a cause."

"Then expect to have thy zeal and courage put to the test. Should I
request thee to visit the Taranteens in their own country, what would
be thy reply?"

The Knight paused, as if the question was of importance sufficient to
require consideration, so long, indeed, that Winthrop thought it
proper to resume.

"I know," he said, "that it is a service not unattended with danger;
yet did danger never frighten a noble soul, but doth ever act as an
incentive. There is no one save thyself well acquainted with the
tongue of these savages, (Mr. Eliot's knowledge thereof, I observe, is
imperfect, and he is in other respects but poorly qualified for the
enterprise), and who would be able to make the impression upon them
and obtain the information which I desire."

"Disclose more perfectly your wishes, right worshipful sir," said Sir
Christopher.

"I call thee to a danger which, possessed I thy marvellous skill in
languages, I myself would meet. I will unbosom myself. The thought of
a conflict with the Taranteens distresses me. It can result only in
ruin to them and injury to the budding prospects of our colony. Our
interest is peace. We want trade with the natives. We want their
confidence. Without the latter there can be no trade, neither can we
counteract the plots of our enemies, nor find opportunity to introduce
the Gospel among them. The mysterious calamity which befel the embassy
hath sadly shaken my expectations; but I am unwilling to abandon the
field. What means are in my power I will apply to restore a good
understanding. Moreover, I would be more fully assured of the truth or
falsehood of the reports that there are Jesuits among the Taranteens.
Where is the man more competent to take upon himself this important
trust--one which hath for its object to prevent effusion of blood--to
detect the traitorous plots of a wily and deadly foe, and to advance
the cause of unadulterated religion, than thyself?"

The Knight bowed in acknowledgment of the compliment, but said
not