Raimundo paid the bill, and they took a tartana for Grao. They learned from the driver that it was less than half an hour’s ride. They first went to the office of the steamer, paid their passage, and secured their state-room.
“This is a good move for another reason,” said Raimundo, as they started again.
“What’s that?” asked Bark.
“I have been expecting to see Stout drop down upon us every moment since we went to the hotel.”
“So have I; and I think, if it had been my case, I should have found you by this time, if I wanted to do so,” added Bark.
“It is hardly time yet for him to get around; but he will find the Fonda del Cid in the course of the forenoon. You forget that Stout cannot speak a word of Spanish; and his want of the language will make it slow work for him to do any thing.”
“I did not think of that.”
“Do you feel all right about leaving him as we did?” asked Raimundo. “For my part, I could not endure him. He insulted me without the least reason for doing so.”
“He is the most unreasonable fellow I ever met in the whole course of my natural life. It was impossible to get along with him; and I am entirely satisfied with myself for leaving him,” replied Bark. “He insulted you, as you say; and I gave him the alternative of apologizing to you, or of parting company with us. I believe I did the fair thing. A fellow cannot hug a hog for any great length of period.”
“That’s so; but didn’t you know him before?”