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“You’ve no right to ask for a show of hands over such a matter,” Christian replied, sternly; “the less so since you are not denied the favours of this woman as matters stand.” He paused to reflect. “Nevertheless, this is a question that does concern us all, and I will do as you ask. We’ll have it out to-night. Fetch the others here when you have supped.”

The evening was windless, after the long calm afternoon, and the stars were bright as the mutineers assembled before Christian’s house. Brown was the last to arrive. When he had joined the group, Christian rose and the murmur of conversation ceased.

“Williams, have you told the others why we are gathered here?”

“No, sir; I reckoned that would come best from ye.”

Christian nodded. “A question has arisen that concerns every man and woman on the island. Williams has lost his girl. He says that he must have another.” He paused, and a voice in the starlight growled, “He’ll have none of ours!”

“He wants Hutia,” Christian explained, “Tararu’s wife.”