box, on which was rudely painted a skull and cross bones, sat the
chief or leader of the band covered with a buffalo robe; on either
side of him were two small barrels marked "Grog" and "Gunpowder."
The children stared and clung closer to Polly. Yet, in spite of
these desperate and warlike accessories, the strangers bore a
singular resemblance to "Christy Minstrels" in their blackened faces
and attitudes that somehow made them seem less awful. In particular,
Polly was impressed with the fact that even the most ferocious had a
certain kindliness of eye, and showed their teeth almost
idiotically.

"Welcome," said the leader. "Welcome to the Pirate's Cave! The Red
Rover of the North Fork of the Stanislaus River salutes the Queen of
the Pirate Isle!" He rose up and made an extraordinary bow. It was
repeated by the others with more or less exaggeration to the point
of one humourist losing his balance!

"O, thank you very much," said Polly, timidly, but drawing her
little flock closer to her with a small protecting arm; "but could
you--would you--please--tell us--what time it is?"

"We are approaching the Middle of Next Week," said the leader,
gravely; "but what of that? Time is made for slaves! The Red Rover
seeks it not! Why should the Queen?"

"I think we must be going," hesitated Polly, yet by no means
displeased with the recognition of her rank.

"Not until we have paid homage to your Majesty," returned the
leader. "What ho! there! Let Brother Step-and-Fetch-It pass the