"He drinks none at all; never a drop under any circumstances."
While the interpreter was rendering this answer, the judge gazed at Louis, and evidently regarded him as a very wonderful young man, besides being "muy ricos." The temperance question seemed to be mixed in with the issue, for Gray had evidently intended to convey the impression that the party on board of the little steamer were "young bloods," so tipsy that they hardly knew what they were about, and that it was a kindness for him to take charge of them, even if he did use the yacht to tow out the Golondrina and the "honest men" in charge of her.
Captain Ringgold stated that the Salihé had come alongside his ship with the schooner in tow, and he decided to deliver her to the Spanish authorities, for it was plain to him that she was engaged in an illegal voyage, intending to rob the government of Spain of its just revenues. The judge bowed as though he approved this decision.
His honor then wished to hear from Mrs. Belgrave, who was quite startled when the commander asked her to take the stand. Dr. Hawkes conducted her to the box on which she was to stand. The judge looked at her; and his ancient eyes seemed to twinkle as he observed that she was still a very pretty woman, though the mother of a boy of seventeen, "muy ricos" besides.
"I congratulate you, señora, on being the mother of such a young man as Mr. Belgrave, and one so very rich," said the judge in good English.
"I thank your honor," replied Mrs. Belgrave, whose blushes made her look all the more interesting; and Captain Ringgold shared the admiration of his honor.
"Does Mr. Belgrave, your son, ever drink too much wine, or other intoxicating fluids?" asked the judge in Spanish, which was duly translated to the lady.
"Never! He never drank a drop of liquor, wine, or beer in his life!" exclaimed the witness indignantly.
"Bastante!" (Enough!) added his honor; and la señora was permitted to retire.
Uncle Moses gave some information in regard to the wealth of the young gentleman and to his temperate habits. The judge was evidently satisfied so far as the capture and recapture of the Salihé were concerned, and then proceeded to consider the custom-house question. The officers testified in regard to the merchandise found on board of the Golondrina. No bill of lading, consular certificate, or other document was found on board or in possession of the captain.