The man made a gesture very like an Eastern salaam.
"There is a Crusade being preached," he answered innocently. "Many stalwart knights are sailing from Flanders. I thought two such well-appointed lords would be journeying in the same direction. But if I am wrong I beg you will consider the words unsaid."
"We do not seek passage to Outremer," returned Matteo.
"Ah, but wherever you wish to go, there I will gladly carry you," returned the swart shipman quickly. "Name the port, lords, and it shall be done."
"You are very anxious to have us, 'twould seem," interjected Hugh.
"I am not too anxious to prevent me from driving a good bargain with your lordships," answered the man with a leer. "I would not have you think me careless of my pocket. But for the money you will be more comfortably lodged than on any other vessel, I pledge you the word of Bartolommeo Caraducci."
"What would you call a fair price?"
"Name me your port, and I will make you an offer," countered the man.
"Let us say Rouen," spoke up Matteo.
The shipman considered.