As soon as the slaves stopped rowing, an awning, which Gervaise had purchased, and which was rolled up under the break of the poop, was, to their astonishment, drawn over them.
"Don't you think you are spoiling your slaves, Sir Gervaise ?" one of the Spanish knights asked doubtfully.
"On the contrary, Sir Pedro, I hope that I am improving them.

You have not worked as a galley slave, but I have, and I can assure you that I used to feel the hours when we were lying broiling in the sun, doing nothing, much more trying than those during which I was at work.

I used to be quite giddy and sick with the heat, and on getting out the oars again had scarce strength to work them.

But this is not the most important point.

In port the slaves always sleep in the prison, but at sea they must rest on their benches; and to do so with clothes soaked with the heavy dew must be a severe trial, and most prejudicial to the health.