“Ah, captain,” cried Brazier, “I’m glad you’ve come. I want to have a settlement with you for all you’ve done.”
The captain nodded, and rubbed one brown ear, making the gold ring therein glisten.
“What am I in your debt?” continued Brazier, “though no money can pay you for your kindness to us and excellent advice.”
The captain was silent, and took to rubbing the other ear, his face wearing a puzzled expression.
“Don’t be afraid to speak out, sir,” continued Brazier; “I am sure you will find me generous.”
“Si! yes,” said the captain, holding out his hand, which was at once taken; “much please—good fellow—amico—bono—altro—altro!”
He broke down and looked confused.
“I understand you,” said Brazier, speaking slowly; “and so are you a good fellow. I wish I could speak Italian. Do you understand me?”
“Si! si!” said the captain, nodding his head.
“We both hope to find you here again when we return, for you to help us down the river again with the collections we shall have made.”