And as most mankind--if at all perceptive--like or dislike one another at a glance, Desportes, being very quick and warm of nature, had felt at first sight a strong repulsion from the cold and arrogant man who faced him.

His age was at least twice that of Carne, he had seen much service in the better days of France, and had risen slowly by his own skill and valour; he knew that his future in the service depended upon his decision in this matter, and he had a large family to maintain.

But his honour was pledged, and he held fast by it.
"There is one consideration," Carne replied, with rancour slowly kindling in his great black eyes, "which precedes all others, even that of honour, in the mind of a trusted officer.

It is not that of patriotism--which has not its usual weight with monsieur--but it is that of obedience, discipline, loyalty, faith, towards those who have placed faith in him.

Captain Desportes, as commander of a ship, is entrusted with property; and that confidence is the first debt upon his honour." To Desportes, as to most men of action, the right was plainer than the reason.