my signet. See!" And he drew from his pocket a
piece of resin upon which he had stamped his signet. "Keep that to prove
the genuineness of my written orders. Is everything satisfactory,
Redfield?"

"Everything is satisfactory, Captain."

Captain Redfield was a man of stalwart build. His height was six feet or
more, and his movements were quick and firm. His face was beardless and
wore an expression of stability and energy.

The two stood for some time upon the prow of the ship, and discussed the
locality of the proposed hiding of the precious booty. Then Captain Kidd
called two men by name, who promptly responded. He said, "I have trusted
you in times past, and I desire to do so again. I believe you will not
betray my confidence. We are going to make another deposit to-night. I
have long had the location in mind. Now, swear by the Holy Virgin that
you will not disturb the stuff yourselves, nor in any way aid or abet
any one else in doing so."

They swore with deep earnestness.

The group continued there awhile, until the moon rose and shed its
silver splendor on the rolling water about them, touching the
white-capped breakers with a soft and magic radiance as they dashed upon
the near-by beach.

Then orders were given for the lowering of the boat.

Captain Kidd proceeded to the lockers of the ship, which opened into his
cabin; and, with the aid of Captain Redfield, drew forth two iron
chests. These he carried to the outer deck, and carefully lowered them
to the boats by means of ropes. From a respectful distance the sailors
who had no hand in this work watched the proceedings with eager
interest.

Firearms, shovels, and axes were then placed in the boat. Four rowers
took their positions; and Captains Kidd and Redfield climbed down the
rope ladder, and sat in the stern. Everything was ready, and word was
given to ply the oars.

Soon the ship became a mystic shape in the dim distance; and, as the
inlet was entered, it was lost entirely to view. By tortuous passages
among the marshes, they drew up at the island--Money Island.

"Island the fourth!" said Captain Kidd jocularly. "Magnificent indeed
will be the buccaneer's castle in Merry England when they all give up
their wealth! Ha, a fine life this; but I suppose as fine a one when
the retired merchant from the South Seas brings his well-earned fortune
to a corner of old England. Not Captain Kidd then, men, but John
So-and-So, a wise and revered merchant. Ha!