Would the girl be called to join us, as the Portuguese had threatened?
Had she received my note of warning?
And if so, would she have the strength to play her part so as to avoid suspicion?
Those keen searching eyes of Estada's would note every movement, observe every fleeting expression.

He had no present doubt of me, only the caution natural to one leading his life of danger.

He believed my story, and nothing thus far had arisen to bring him the slightest doubt.

To his mind I was a reckless adventurer, ruined by drink, a drifting derelict, so glad to be picked up, and given rank, as to be forever grateful and loyal to the one aiding me.

While his instinct made him distrust an Englishman, he already had some measure of faith in me personally, yet this confidence was still so light as to be completely shattered by the slightest mishap.