“I must speak to you alone,” said the Maltese.
“Well, then,” said Bruno, “I’ll hear you tomorrow, my worthy captain.”
“But I must inform you immediately,” said the Maltese.
“Well, then, speak before the company,” said Bruno; “we have not too many here, and I make it a rule when I feel comfortable never to disturb myself, even if my life were at stake.”
“That is the very subject I wish to allude to,” said the Maltese.
“Bah!” replied Bruno; “heaven looks after honest men; here’s to your health, captain.”
The Maltese emptied his glass.
“That’s right; now sit down and let me hear your sermon, we’ll listen to you with proper attention.”
The merchant perceived he must give in to the whim of his host, and he consequently obeyed him.
“Well, now then, what is it?” said Bruno.