The outlaw kept his countenance.
"Of course, I shall not be surprised or scandalised at anything I see. All I know is that here I should be bored to death, having nothing to do. It would be a nice little change to join you in one of your filibustering expeditions."
All this was said in a joking kind of way that excluded all idea of giving offence.
"Well," said Tom Mitchell, smiling, "any way, you would find yourself utterly disappointed."
"How is that?"
"I am not going to plunder, but to restore. Of course I don't pretend it is my usual custom," said Tom.
"Very well," cried Pierre; "I think that will be much more funny. I should like to join in the good work."
"But, my friend—" urged the outlaw.
"There is no but about it. I am a Breton, that is to say, as obstinate as several mules," continued Pierre Durand; "and I mean to come, unless, indeed, you tell me that my demand is in reality offensive and intrusive."
"By no means," cried Tom; "come then. Who can resist anyone so obstinate as you are, my friend?"