ontinued. "At noon she was at anchorage in the channel
between the islands of Comino and Gozo. It is known as the North
Channel."

"I know the spot," said Dave, nodding. "Comino is the little island
that is used as a quarantine station. Monsieur le Comte, do you know
anything more, of importance, that you have not already told me?"

"Monsieur Darrin, I believe that nothing of importance has been left
out of my narrative. But you believe me? You will now accept my hand?"

"Yes," Dave burst out, extending his hand almost impulsively. M. le
Comte Surigny seized it delightedly.

"Ah, it is good, it is grand!" cried the young Frenchman, "after such
associates as I have had for weeks, to find myself again fit for the
confidence and the friendship of a gentleman!"

"But what will become of you?" asked Dave, a feeling of regret
suddenly assailing him. "What will become of you, my dear Surigny? Is
it likely that the plotters, if they be foiled, will suspect you? Is
it likely that they would seek your life as a forfeit?"

"What is my life?" laughed the Frenchman gayly. "I have never valued
it highly, but now, when I have won back my self-respect, a blow in
the dark would be but a mark of honor. If they wish to kill me, let
them. It would be a glorious death, in the cause of honor!"

Dave glanced out of the window, then gave a start of alarm.

"Time is passing," he murmured. "I must take my information where it
will be of the most service. And you, Surigny, may I take the liberty,
without waiting to ask our Admiral's leave, of inviting you to accept
the hospitality of the flagship? Will you come on board with me?"

"Afterward," replied the Frenchman. "Afterward, when the truth of what
I have told you is recognized."

"Where will you stay for the present, then?"

"Where I am now," smiled the Count.

Dave took one long step forward, again gripping Count Surigny's right
hand with both his own hands.

"Surigny, I am under more obligations than I can ever repay. Few men
with the instinct of a gentleman could have endured, for weeks, having
to associate with and serve such rascals as this grewsome crew. You
have, indeed, proved yourself noble, and I deeply regret that I have
ever allowed myself to distrust and dislike you."

"Let us say no more," begged the Count. "After the chase is over--and
may you win the game--you will find me here, reveling in the thought
that I have been able to warn you so completely."

Had it