"Welcome, good Martin," said the Count, rising, "you see we keep time and tryst here."
"I am here at my time," said the traveller.
"I am right glad you have so soon joined us," said the Count; "for, sooth to say, both the Captain and myself are most anxious to be on the broad waves of the Atlantic."
"Our necessaries are by this time on board," said the Captain; "and as this honourable person makes up the file of gentlemen engaged for the expedition, what stays us, but we warp out to sea at once? In an hour I will undertake to be under weigh."
"Be it so," said the Count. "In an hour myself and friend will be on board."
And the Captain rose, and, after another cup of Canary, proceeded to his ship.
"Have you succeeded in learning any fresh tidings?" said the Count to our old friend Martin.
"I have journeyed far, and in something profited by my travel," said Martin. "I have visited the Netherlands, and also been in Warwickshire, since I met you in London, and now I keep tryste, and am here as appointed."
"You are ever worthy and zealous in the cause of your friends," returned the Count; "what are your tidings?"
"Briefly, then," said Martin, "I have reason to believe the good Walter lives; but, if such be the case, he is prisoner to the Spaniard—the worst sort of captivity—since he is in the hands of those who know no touch of pity, and are incensed against the English. This letter will better inform you of his situation."