The Count nodded shortly. He was drawing off his gloves.
“I do not know,” he said conversationally, “if it has been your experience, but for myself I have found that reverses of fortune are not without some small consolation. They prove the friendship of one’s friends.”
The captain reflected.
“Yes,” he said, “you’re right, Mr.--I mean Count--and--and brings the good out of women.”
“Women!” the Count repeated gravely. “You refer to Miss Challoner--I see signs of her presence in this room. Is she out?”
“Yes--I am afraid she is.” He glanced nervously at the clock. “She is not likely to be in for an hour and more yet.”
“I am sorry,” said the Count; “but also I am rather glad. I shall thus have an opportunity of asking your opinion upon one or two matters--between men of the world, you know.”
“I am afraid my opinion is not of much value, sir, except it’s about schooners--I always sailed in schooners.”
The Count nodded gravely.
“In my country,” he said, “we usually go in for brigs; they find them easier to handle. But you know Mallorca - you have seen for yourself.”