His tall companion translated; on which the other, nodding vehemently, stroked his mustaches while he again surveyed me from head to foot, letting his eyes, full of fire, settle with the most searching look that can be imagined upon my face. I caught Don Christoval exchanging a glance with Captain Dopping. There was a brief pause while the tall Don lighted his cigar. He then said, with a smile:
"You have lost your ship, sir?"
"I have, I am sorry to say."
"What will you do, sir?"
"It is for you to dispose of me. I should be glad to make myself useful to you until you transfer me or land me."
"But then—but then?"
"Then I must endeavor to obtain another berth," said I.
"Explain," cried Don Lazarillo.
Don Christoval spoke to him in Spanish.
"You are a gentleman by birth?" said the tall Don.