A flash of interest went over the stranger's face, which was turned
at once from the light.

"Captain Allen! And what of him?" The voice was pitched to a lower
tone; but there was no appearance of special curiosity.

"A great deal of him." The landlord put on a knowing look.

"Is he a sea captain?"

"Yes;" and lowering his voice, "something else besides, if we are to
credit people who pretend to know."

"Ah! but you speak in riddles, Mr. Adams. What do you mean by
something more?"

"Why, the fact is, Mr. Willoughby, they do say, that he got his
money in a backhanded sort of fashion."

"By gambling?"

"No, sir! By piracy!"

Col. Willoughby gave a real or affected start.

"A grave charge that, sir." He looked steadily at the landlord. "And
one that should not be lightly made."

"I only report the common talk."