"Why not accompany me to the hatto, that would be more simple, I fancy?"
"It is possible, and that was my intention at first, but I have changed my mind; so settle what you will do."
"My sister respects herself too much to take such a step, I am certain beforehand that she will indignantly refuse."
"Well, you may be mistaken, my friend," the engagé said, with a knowing smile, "who ever knows what women think!"
"Well, to cut short an interview which has already lasted too long, I will inform her of what you have said to me; still, I do not conceal from you that I shall make every effort to prevent her coming."
"You can do as you please, it does not concern me; but be assured that if it be her wish to come, as I believe, your arguments will be of no use."
"We shall see."
"Mind not to forget to tell her that the letter is from Montbarts."
During this conversation, which possessed no interest for him, Lepoletais, with the characteristic coolness and carelessness of buccaneers, was engaged in cutting down branches, and planting stakes to make the ajoupa under which they would camp for the night.
"You see," the engagé added, "that my comrade has already set to work; so good-bye till tomorrow, as I have no time for further talk, I must help to prepare the boucan."