Of course, Ethan Crowder was the only tar who raised his hand. In fact, the lout appeared rather eager to join the crew of an untried captain. Kennan had planned to deal with the varlet next, but since he was so anxious to draw attention to himself, it was time to face him. “Sailor, I have a special position in mind for you.”

The man stepped forward, thumping his chest. “Ye hear that, fellas? Ole Ethan’s going to be promoted.”

“I’d save your enthusiasm if I were you.” Kennan said, beckoning Divana beside him, the act making Ethan’s grin disappear.

Before he said another word, he gestured to two trusted Cameron sailors with whom he’d had a wee chat before he’d begun his address. They moved into position behind the scourge.

Kennan grasped Divana’s hand. “Lady Divana, did not this man threaten you?”

“Lies!” Ethan shouted as the two men seized his arms.

“Her Ladyship never lies!” shouted Baltazar, bless him.

“Agreed,” said Kennan. “Now, dear, as you were saying…”

Divana eyed her accuser. “Aye, Ethan threatened me and ye as well, Captain. Told me if I did not give him me share of the takings, he’d expose me secret.”

“And what secret would that be?”

“That I’m a lass and not a lad.” She batted her eyelashes and fanned her face. “Now me secret has been revealed, I would be remiss if I did not say this man also threatened to incite a mutiny against ye.”

Ethan struggled against his captors. “More lies! The pox on ye, wench! How dare ye smear me good name.”

Kennan shifted his fists to his hips. “How many aboard have not heard this man spew bile? I ken he’s whispered in your ears about mutiny and he’s cheated a few of you at dice as well.”

“Aye,” came the rumbles from the crowd.

“Ethan Crowder, I deem you guilty as charged. And no longer a member of this crew.” Kennan turned to Divana. “Shall I put him in irons and let him keep company with Mr. Vane until the pair of them swing from the gallows?”

“Nay.” She looked across to the isle. “Give him a barrel filled with stores and utensils, a few good blankets, and a shove. Then let him ponder his misdeeds in Hades for a time.”

The man’s eyes grew enormous with fear. “Ye cannot abandon me on a deserted isle. I’ll starve!”

“Would you rather swing from Fort William’s gallows?” asked Cuthbert.

“’Tisn’t so bad especially if ye have a shovel to dig for clams.” Divana brushed her fingers on the rail. “After all, I survived on Hyskeir for two years, and there the winters are fierce and summer lasts but a sennight. Hades would be an improvement over that.”