en cast in this vessel to
set us all at variance. It was my duty, as your captain, to propose
that our laws should be enforced. Tell me now what is it that you wish.
I am only here as your captain, and to take the sense of the whole
crew. I have no animosity against that lad: I have loved him--I have
cherished him; but like a viper, he has stung me in return. Instead of
being in arms against each other, ought we not to be united? I have,
therefore, one proposal to make to you, which is this: let the sentence
go by vote, or ballot, if you please; and whatever the sentence may be,
I shall be guided by it. Can I say more?"

"My lads," replied Francisco, when the captain had done speaking, "I
think it better that you should accept this proposal rather than that
blood should be shed. My life is of little consequence; say, then, will
you agree to the vote, and submit to those laws, which, as the captain
says, have been laid down to regulate the discipline of the vessel?"

The pirates on Francisco's side looked round among their party, and,
perceiving that they were the most numerous, consented to the proposal;
but Hawkhurst stepped forward and observed: "Of course the Kroumen can
have no votes, as they do not belong to the vessel."

This objection was important, as they amounted to twenty-five, and,
after that number was deducted, in all probability, Francisco's
adherents would have been in the minority. The pirates, with Francisco,
objected, and again assumed the attitude of defence.

"One moment," said Francisco, stepping in advance; "before this point is
settled, I wish to take the sense of all of you as to another of your
laws. I ask you, Hawkhurst, and all who are now opposed to me, whether
you have not one law, which is _Blood for blood_?"

"Yes--yes," shouted all the pirates.

"Then let your captain stand forward, and answer to my charge, if he
dares."

Cain curled his lip in derision, and walked within two yards of
Francisco.

"Well, boy, I'm here; and what is your charge?"

"First--I ask you, Captain Cain, who are so anxious that the laws should
be enforced, whether you acknowledge that `Blood for blood' is a just
law?"

"Most just: and, when shed, the party who revenges is not amenable."

"'Tis well: then villain that thou art, answer--Didst thou not murder my
mother?"

Cain, at this accusation, started.

"Answer the truth, or lie like a recreant!" repeated Francisco. "Did
you not murder m