The Spaniard inclined his head, with a faint smile.
“His Majesty is unfortunate not to be a fourth in so honourable a company,” said he.
Ludar looked confused, and his brow clouded. He was no match for any man when it came to compliments.
“Sir,” said he, “I am indebted to your watch for my life, and to his Majesty, your King, for my dinner. I am sorry it is so, but I cannot help it. If you command it, I am bound to make payment; and, since I have no money, you have a right to the service of my hands till we be quits.”
Don Alonzo looked him from head to foot and smiled again.
“Sir Ludar is his Majesty’s guest on this ship,” said he, with a fine motion of the head. “Any service he may render I shall be honoured to accept. I refer him to Captain Desmond, here, for further intelligence.”
“And you, Señor,” said he, addressing me with somewhat less ceremony, “you are English?”
“I thank Heaven, yea,” said I, “a humble servant to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, and a foe to her enemies.”
“And your estate?” demanded he, coldly ignoring my tone.
“I have no estate. I am a plain London ’prentice.”