The moment Martella came within reach, the American extended his hand and addressed him in his native tongue:
“The Captain says you are ready to show us the way to Castillo Descanso, where Señoritas Estacardo and Starland are staying.”
Martella nodded his head several times and said eagerly, “Si, si, si.”
“Are you certain they are there?”
“I am not, but I think so.”
“The deuce! Captain, I thought you said he was certain.”
“So he is,—as certain as one can be; he saw them go ashore last night and start inland under the escort of two soldiers, and heard them say they were going to Castillo Descanso; isn’t that true, Martella?”
“It is true, but perhaps they did not arrive there.”
“Oh, hang it!—that is as near right as one can be. Show the Captain where to direct the boat and we’ll soon set things humming.”