suffers much, for
her life is wrapped in yours. Now having told you this, you must come
into my state-room, and allow me to enable you to appear as my brother
ought to do. I do not think that there is any difference in our size
now, although there was when we last parted."

"Many thanks, Philip, but before I adonize my outward man I should
wish to satisfy my inward cravings; and, to tell you the truth, I'm so
hungry from not having broken my fast for nearly twenty-four hours,
that if you could order something to eat while you are looking out the
clothes, I should feel in no small degree grateful."

Philip rang the bell and ordered the steward in bring something to eat
and drink, and after eating I occupied a quarter of an hour more in
getting rid of the pirate smoke and dirt, and putting on one of his
uniforms, for he had no other clothes on board, when I came out,
looking not at all like a pirate.

"Now, then," said Philip, "before we have our _tete-a-tete_, come out
with me, and let me introduce you to the officers as my brother."

I went out with him, and was formally introduced. The first lieutenant
apologized for his rough speech, but I told him that there was no
occasion for any apology, as I had no doubt that I looked very much
like a pirate at the time.

"More than you do now. Sir, at all events," replied he.

"By the bye, brother," said I, "there is one man among the prisoners
who, although compelled to act as captain by the men, is no pirate.
His conduct I will explain to you. May I request him to be kindly
treated? His name is Toplift--and also two Portuguese, my former
companions."

"Certainly," replied Philip, "your word is sufficient. Let those
persons be released and taken care of," said he to the first
lieutenant. "We will wait for the particulars by-and-by."

I remained on deck about ten minutes, and then returned to the cabin
with my brother.

"What is this which you have left on my dressing-table?" said Philip,
surveying the leather bag which contained the diamond.

"That, Philip," said I, "is a portion of my narrative, and eventually
may prove a very important one. I don't think that I can afford to
make you a present of it, but I shall see."

"It does not look very valuable," replied he.

"At all events, do me the favour to lock it up carefully," replied I.

"Well, if you are in earnest I will," he said, and having put it in a
drawer and locked it up, he said, "Now, Alexander, let me