The visiting boat’s crew consisted of six men, who enjoyed the companionship of Captain Redfield’s assistants, mingling with them in their various pursuits.  All the graces of hospitality were generously displayed, and mirth and good cheer possessed the men.

In the afternoon Captain Redfield was entertaining his guest in his private room.  Brisbau said he would now advise him regarding the commission upon which he was sent; which was, in fact, none other than the execution of an order from Captain Kidd for the two cheats that he had secreted in that neighborhood.  Captain Redfield was to be awarded a generous portion, and his arduous service as guardian of the treasure would terminate.  In the name of Captain Kidd, he graciously extended thanks for the faithfulness which Captain Redfield had shown in the discharge of his duties, and gave him assurances of the high esteem and confidence of the gallant leader.

The words were very pleasing; but Captain Redfield hesitated to make answer.  “It may or may not be true,” said he after a pause, “that Captain Kidd has buried possessions in this immediate locality.  It is not to be denied that he has secreted treasure along the coast, but where?  That is the question.  I have some knowledge of the hiding place of some of it, but must have some written order over the signature and seal of the Captain to warrant me in disclosing it.”

Brisbau promptly responded that he had such a communication from Captain Kidd, and proceeded to draw it from an inner pocket of his coat.  He failed to find it, and with a great show of annoyance and a sudden recollection, he exclaimed with an oath that he had left it on the dressing table on his ship.

What was to be done?  He would send immediately out to the ship, and have the paper brought to him.  No, that was hardly worth while.  He assured Captain Redfield that he would hand him the paper on their return to the ship, with Captain Redfield accompanying him.

That, Captain Redfield replied, would hardly be satisfactory.  His obligation was to give information as to the hidden treasure only upon a well attested written order from Captain Kidd.  Brisbau cajoled, implored, and vehemently asserted the injury to his feelings which the foolish reluctance of his friend caused him.

By intuition, Captain Redfield became convinced, on account of a certain weakness in the attitude of Brisbau in defending his request, that there were deceit and treachery in his conduct.  Therefore, he coolly stated his determination to make no movement in the matter without the authority about which he had spoken.

At this Brisbau rose in great anger and exclaimed, “I shall have the money, or your life will be no more than Jack Kettle’s, who flaunted his opposition before Captain Kidd himself!”

Hardly had he spoken when Captain Redfield in the flash of a thought for self-preservation, sprang upon him.  Brisbau, equally as quick, met the onset and moved as best he could to avoid the grasp that threatened him.