"Only think of that! Then you must have learned a good many things?"
"An enormous quantity, worthy sir."
Don Stefano turned to Brighteye.
"My friend," he said to him, "just unloosen this man's bonds a little. There is much to be gained in his company; I wish to enjoy his conversation for a little while."
The hunter silently executed the orders he received. The bandit uttered a sigh of satisfaction at finding himself more at his ease, and sat up.
"¡Cuerpo de Cristo!" he exclaimed, with a mocking accent. "The position is now, at any rate, bearable. We can talk."
"I think so."
"My faith! yes. I am quite at your service, for anything you please, Excellency."
"I will profit by your complaisance."
"Profit by it! profit by it, Excellency? I can only gain in talking with you."