“Sit down,” said he to Lorenzo, when they had arrived into the cabin, “and allow me to express my approval of the brave and wise manner in which you have discharged your duty during my absence.”
The officer bowed modestly.
“Has the crew always acted up to its office?” Appadocca demanded.
“Yes, your excellency,” replied Lorenzo.
“The unfortunate accident,” proceeded Appadocca, “which happened, deprived us of our last booty: but, in two days’ time I shall let the men have as much as they can desire. I shall let them have pleasure to-morrow. Lorenzo, let us drink together.”
Appadocca pressed a spring, and one of his attendants appeared and laid on a table wine and drinking-cups. Appadocca filled a goblet and passed the decanter to Lorenzo.
“Thanks to you, Lorenzo,” said Appadocca, and drank.
“To the joy of your return, your excellency,” said Lorenzo, and did the same.
In a few moments after the officer left the cabin.