the two cheats that he
had secreted in that neighborhood. Captain Redfield was to be awarded a
generous portion, and his arduous service as guardian of the treasure
would terminate. In the name of Captain Kidd, he graciously extended
thanks for the faithfulness which Captain Redfield had shown in the
discharge of his duties, and gave him assurances of the high esteem and
confidence of the gallant leader.

The words were very pleasing; but Captain Redfield hesitated to make
answer. "It may or may not be true," said he after a pause, "that
Captain Kidd has buried possessions in this immediate locality. It is
not to be denied that he has secreted treasure along the coast, but
where? That is the question. I have some knowledge of the hiding place
of some of it, but must have some written order over the signature and
seal of the Captain to warrant me in disclosing it."

Brisbau promptly responded that he had such a communication from Captain
Kidd, and proceeded to draw it from an inner pocket of his coat. He
failed to find it, and with a great show of annoyance and a sudden
recollection, he exclaimed with an oath that he had left it on the
dressing table on his ship.

What was to be done? He would send immediately out to the ship, and have
the paper brought to him. No, that was hardly worth while. He assured
Captain Redfield that he would hand him the paper on their return to the
ship, with Captain Redfield accompanying him.

That, Captain Redfield replied, would hardly be satisfactory. His
obligation was to give information as to the hidden treasure only upon a
well attested written order from Captain Kidd. Brisbau cajoled,
implored, and vehemently asserted the injury to his feelings which the
foolish reluctance of his friend caused him.

By intuition, Captain Redfield became convinced, on account of a certain
weakness in the attitude of Brisbau in defending his request, that there
were deceit and treachery in his conduct. Therefore, he coolly stated
his determination to make no movement in the matter without the
authority about which he had spoken.

At this Brisbau rose in great anger and exclaimed, "I shall have the
money, or your life will be no more than Jack Kettle's, who flaunted his
opposition before Captain Kidd himself!"

Hardly had he spoken when Captain Redfield in the flash of a thought for
self-preservation, sprang upon him. Brisbau, equally as quick, met the
onset and moved as best he could to avoid th