“Well, then, I will see if I can make up a story that will suit all parties: let me think.”
Krantz continued musing as he walked up and down, and was still occupied with his own thoughts, when the door opened, and the commandant made his appearance.
“You have something to impart to me, I understand—what is it?”
“First, sir, bring that little wretch down here and confront him with us.”
“I see no occasion for that,” replied the commandant; “what, sir, may you have to say?”
“Do you know who you have in your company when you speak to that one-eyed deformity?”
“A Dutch sailor, I presume.”
“No—a spirit—a demon—who occasioned the loss of the vessel; and who brings misfortune wherever he appears.”
“Holy Virgin! what do you tell me, signor?”
“The fact, Signor Commandant. We are obliged to you for confining us here, while he is in the fort; but beware for yourself.”