Yet again, usual disclaimers apply throughout this tale. If you recognise it, it probably belongs to the Mouse – else it is mine!

Chapter 65 - Governor Spense

The new Governor, Thomas Spense, read the report quietly. His face betrayed no emotion, apart from a small, occasional tic. At last he spoke. "And you expect me to believe this report?" His voice was calm, but Commodore Norrington knew he would have to tread carefully.

"It is the truth, Governor," he said quietly.

"And yet the Black Pearl chooses not to return?" he queried.

"But they have kept their accord and attacked no English ship," James Norrington defended.

"Am I to understand that you wish me to confirm your agreement with a pirate?" His voice rose slightly in disbelief.

He looked awkwardly at the older man. "Yes, Governor," he replied.

Thomas Spense looked at him, considering. "And if I asked you to hunt them down?" he asked.

Commodore Norrington took a deep breath. "I would refuse, Governor, and you would turn every person in this town against you."

Governor Spense had already heard from the staff at his new residence all of the gossip surrounding the Black Pearl and how they came to the rescue of Port Royal. He had thought it all overblown and highly unlikely, yet here was the Commodore telling the same tale.

"I will not grant the Black Pearl privateer status." Commodore Norrington started to protest, but a raised hand silenced him. "I will not grant them anything until I am more assured of the situation although I will not actively hunt the ship. I am not saying that I will not grant this status at some time in the future though."

"And Mistress Sparrow?" James Norrington prompted.

The Governor smiled. "I will grant a pardon to Mistress Sparrow for the killing of Lieutenant Gillette as you and Captain Groves assure me it was in self-defence. I admit that I knew the man as a boy and fail to see how he could have improved with maturity."

"Thank you Governor." James Norrington knew it was the best he could hope for at the time. Perhaps when the Governor got to understand the town better he would change his decision - he could at least hope. He had gotten used to having the eccentric captain around. "If I may be excused, Sir?" The Governor nodded and the Commodore backed towards the door, eager to tell Theodore the news.

88888