"O, bother brigands," said David. "For my part, I begin to think not only that there are no brigands now, but even that there never have been any such people at all.
"Well, I won't go as far as that," said Clive, "but I certainly begin to have my doubts about them."
"They're all humbugs," said David.
"All of our brigands have been total failures," said Clive.
"Yes," said David; "they all turned out to be the most amiable people in the world. But come; suppose we go inside, and explore this old ruin. It may be something famous. I wish the guide were, here."
"O, well look at it first all over, and then ask at the hotel."
"Yes, that's the way."
"But have we time?"
"O, of course; it won't take us five minutes."
Upon this Clive started off for the ruined structure, followed by David.