sure. I like it much. I believe
it would redound to our mutual benefit and reputation. Is it not so,
Jose?"

The Commandante nodded vigorously. "I am sure of it! I am sure of it!
I like it--much, much."

"I will write at once to the Viceroy of Mexico and ask that he lay the
matter before the Cabinet and King. Without that high authority we can
do nothing. But I see no reason to doubt the issue when we, who know
the wants and needs of California, approve and desire. We are doomed
to failure in this unwieldy land of worthless savages, but it is the
business of the wretched servants of a glorious monarch to do the best
they can."

Rezanov had an inspiration. "You might remind the viceroy that Spain
and the United States of America have been on the verge of war for
years, and suggest the benefit of an alliance with Russia in the case
of the new country taking advantage of the situation in Europe to
extend its western boundaries--"

Arrillaga had bounced to his feet, his small eyes injected and blazing.
"Those damned Bostonians!" he shouted. "I distrusted them years ago.
They have too much calculation in their bluntness. They cheated us,
sold us short, traded under my very nose, stole our otters, until I
ordered them never to drop an anchor in California waters again. If
their ridiculous upstart government dares to cast its eyes on
California we shall know how to meet them--the sooner they march on
Mexico and lose their conceit the better. How they do brag! Faugh!
It is sickening. I shall remember all you say, Excellency; and thank
you for the hint."

Rezanov rose, and the Commandante solemnly kissed him on either cheek.
"Governor Arrillaga is my guest, Excellency," he said. "I beg that you
will dine with us daily--unofficially--that you will regard California
as your own kingdom, and come and go at your pleasure. And my daughter
begs me to remind you and your young officers that there will be
informal dancing every night."

"So far so good," thought Rezanov, as he mounted his horse to return to
the Juno. "But what of my cargo? I fancy there will be more
difficulty in that quarter."

XV

The Chamberlain was in a towering bad humor. As he made his appearance
at least two hours earlier than he was expected, he found the decks of
the Juno covered with the skins of sea-dogs, foxes, and birds. He had
heard Langsdorff go to his cabin later than usual the night before, and
that his pet aversion w