which now hovers near us are of the kind from which comes such as that!” Once more she indicated the “Laughing Cavalier,” and now her form and face were filled with surging ambition strengthened with ardent hope.

“How goes our sloop?” she asked abruptly.

“Swiftly, but with the dying breath of the wind. By noon she will be swinging idly, Sultana.”

“Who of the boldest rascals remain with us?”

“The noisiest dogs have gone. Sancho remains, for Stumpy cracked his head last night in a brawl. The others here are but cattle!” The giant uttered the words with bitter scorn.

“Then, at noon, Milo, we move to secure my ship!” Dolores cried with gleaming eyes.