Am I to understand that you confirm
or that you repudiate them?"
M. de Rivarol's eyes narrowed. His mind was full of what M. de Cussy
had said - that these buccaneers must prove the sharp edge of any
weapon he might forge. He could not dispense with them. He
perceived that he had blundered tactically in attempting to reduce
the agreed share. Withdrawal from a position of that kind is ever
fraught with loss of dignity. But there were those volunteers that
M. de Cussy was enrolling to strengthen the hand of the King's
General. Their presence might admit anon of the reopening of this
question. Meanwhile he must retire in the best order possible.
"I have considered that, too," he announced. "And whilst my opinion
remains unaltered, I must confess that since M. de Cussy has pledged
us, it is for us to fulfil the pledges. The articles are confirmed,
sir."
Captain Blood bowed again. In vain M. de Rivarol looked searchingly
for the least trace of a smile of triumph on those firm lips. The
buccaneer's face remained of the utmost gravity.
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