d the crown and that James had thrown himself
into the arms of France for rehabilitation.

To a kinsman of Sunderland's this was disquieting news, indeed. It was
followed by letters from King William's Secretary of State informing
Colonel Bishop that there was war with France, and that in view of its
effect upon the Colonies a Governor-General was coming out to the
West Indies in the person of Lord Willoughby, and that with him came a
squadron under the command of Admiral van der Kuylen to reenforce the
Jamaica fleet against eventualities.

Bishop realized that this must mean the end of his supreme authority,
even though he should continue in Port Royal as Deputy-Governor. Lord
Julian, in the lack of direct news to himself, did not know what it
might mean to him. But he had been very close and confidential with
Colonel Bishop regarding his hopes of Arabella, and Colonel Bishop more
than ever, now that political events put him in danger of being retired,
was anxious to enjoy the advantages of having a man of Lord Julian's
eminence for his relative.

They came to a complete understanding in the matter, and Lord Julian
disclosed all that he knew.

"There is one obstacle in our path," said he. "Captain Blood. The girl
is in love with him."

"Ye're surely mad!" cried Bishop, when he had recovered speech.

"You are justified of the assumption," said his lordship dolefully. "But
I happen to be sane, and to speak with knowledge."

"With knowledge?"

"Arabella herself has confessed it to me."

"The brazen baggage! By God, I'll bring her to her senses." It was the
slave-driver speaking, the man who governed with a whip.

"Don't be a fool, Bishop." His lordship's contempt did more than
any argument to calm the Colonel. "That's not the way with a girl of
Arabella's spirit. Unless you want to wreck my chances for all time,
you'll hold your tongue, and not interfere at all."

"Not interfere? My God, what, then?"

"Listen, man. She has a constant mind. I don't think you know your
niece. As long as Blood lives, she will wait for him."

"Then with Blood dead, perhaps she will come to her silly senses."

"Now you begin to show intelligence," Lord Julian commended him. "That
is the first essential step."

"And here is our chance to take it." Bishop warmed to a sort of
enthusiasm. "This war with France removes all restrictions in the matter
of Tortuga. We are free to invest it in the service of the Crown. A
victory there