ll the rest) his
return appeared spontaneous. For all that, a hubbub arose; oaths flew,
fists were shaken, and guns pointed.

"Let us get back to camp," said the Master. "I have an explanation to
make, but it must be laid before you all. And in the meanwhile I would
put up these weapons, one of which might very easily go off and blow
away your hopes of treasure. I would not kill," says he, smiling, "the
goose with the golden eggs."

The charm of his superiority once more triumphed; and the party, in no
particular order, set off on their return. By the way, he found occasion
to get a word or two apart with Mountain.

"You are a clever fellow and a bold," says he, "but I am not so sure
that you are doing yourself justice. I would have you to consider
whether you would not do better, ay, and safer, to serve me instead of
serving so commonplace a rascal as Mr. Harris. Consider of it," he
concluded, dealing the man a gentle tap upon the shoulder, "and don't be
in haste. Dead or alive, you will find me an ill man to quarrel with."

When they were come back to the camp, where Harris and Pinkerton stood
guard over Secundra, these two ran upon the Master like viragoes, and
were amazed out of measure when they were bidden by their comrades to
"stand back and hear what the gentleman had to say." The Master had not
flinched before their onslaught; nor, at this proof of the ground he had
gained, did he betray the least sufficiency.

"Do not let us be in haste," says he. "Meat first and public speaking
after."

With that they made a hasty meal: and as soon as it was done, the
Master, leaning on one elbow, began his speech. He spoke long,
addressing himself to each except Harris, finding for each (with the
same exception) some particular flattery. He called them "bold, honest
blades," declared he had never seen a more jovial company, work better
done, or pains more merrily supported. "Well, then," says he, "some one
asks me, Why the devil I ran away? But that is scarce worth answer, for
I think you all know pretty well. But you know only pretty well: that is
a point I shall arrive at presently, and be you ready to remark it when
it comes. There is a traitor here: a double traitor: I will give you his
name before I am done; and let that suffice for now. But here comes some
other gentleman and asks me, 'Why, in the devil, I came back?' Well,
before I answer that question, I have one to put to you. It was this cur
here, this Harri