Scarcely had he resolved the matter in his mind, as we have described, when Selim entered the cabin, and perceiving the refreshed and cheerful appearance of Aphiz, addressed him in a congratulatory tone.
"I rejoice to see you so well."
"Thanks to your prompt assistance and hospitality that I am not now at the bottom of the Bosphorus."
"You were pretty close upon drowning, and must have been under water for some time, I should say."
"I had indeed, and was very nearly exhausted," answered Aphiz.
"But how came you in such a pitiable plight, what led you so far from the shore without a boat?"
"I—that is to say—"
"O, I see, some matter that you wish to keep a secret. Very well; far be it from me to ask aught of thee, or urge thee to reveal any matter that might compromise thy feelings."
"Not so," answered Aphiz; "but were I to speak, I might criminate myself."
"O, fear no such matter with me, were you an escaped prisoner from the law, I—"