"I thank you, but do not think I shall requite their assistance."
"Who knows? No one can foresee events. Our sailors are brave, and, if it should come to fighting, be assured they will do their share."
Only one of the guests had remained silent during the breakfast, contenting himself with eating and drinking; while attentively listening to what was said around him. This guest was the lieutenant. So soon as the ship had started, he left the table, bowed to the company, and went on deck.
"Your lieutenant is no talker, Commandant," Doña Mencia observed; "he only opened his lips to eat and drink."
"That is true, Señorita; but pray excuse him, he is an old sailor, but little accustomed to society—he felt embarrassed and almost in his wrong place with you; but few men know their profession so well as he, or are so firm and intrepid in danger."
At this moment a loud detonation made the vessel quiver. "Ah!" said Doña Mencia with a cry of terror, "What does that mean?"
"Less than nothing, Señorita; we have merely hoisted our flag, and fired a blank shot, to oblige the brig to show her colours."
"Would there be any danger in going on deck?" Doña Mencia asked with curiosity.
"Not the least."
"In that case, with your permission, we will go up and see what is happening."