mistake their outward signs. Though it is quite in reason to
believe, that he who mingles much in rude and violent scenes should imbibe
some of their rough and repelling aspects, still it would seem that, as
the stillest waters commonly conceal the deepest currents, so the powers
to awaken extraordinary events are not unfrequently cloaked under a
chastened, and sometimes under a cold, exterior. It has often happened,
that the most desperate and self-willed men are those whose mien and
manners would give reason to expect the mildest and most tractable
dispositions; while he who has seemed a lion sometimes proves, in his real
nature, to be little better than a lamb.

Ludlow had reason to see that the incredulity of his top-man had extended
to most on board; and, as he could not conquer his tenderness on the
subject of Alida and all that concerned her, while on the other hand there
existed no motive for immediately declaring the truth, he rather favored
the general impression by his silence. First giving some orders of the
last importance at that moment, he passed into the cabin, and sought a
private interview with his captive.

"That vacant state-room is at your service, Master Seadrift," he observed,
pointing to the little apartment opposite to the one he occupied himself.

"We are likely to be shipmates several days, unless you choose to shorten
the time, by entering into a capitulation for the Water-Witch; in which
case----"

"You had a proposition to make."

Ludlow hesitated, cast an eye behind him, to be certain they were alone,
and drew nearer to his captive.

"Sir, I will deal with you as becomes a seaman. La belle Barberie is
dearer to me than ever woman was before;--dearer, I fear, than ever woman
will be again. You need not learn that circumstances nave occurred,--Do
you love the lady?"

"I do."

"And she--fear not to trust the secret to one who will not abuse the
trust--returns she your affection?"

The mariner of the brigantine drew back with dignity; and then, instantly
recovering his ease, as if fearful he might forget himself, he said with
warmth.

"This trifling with woman's weakness is the besetting sin of man! None may
speak of her inclinations, Captain Ludlow, but herself. It never shall be
said, that any of the sex had aught but fitting reverence for their
dependent state, their constant and confiding love, their faithfulness in
all the world's trials, and their singleness of heart, from me