"We are bound into la Padulella, and wish to keep in with the land to hold the breeze the longer.

We are no great sailer at the best, and have a drift, because we are just now in the strength of the current.
"At this rate, you will come athwart my hawse.

You know I am armed, and cannot suffer that!" "Ah, Signore, we are friends of the republic, and would not harm you if we could.

We hope you will not injure poor mariners like us.

We will keep away, if you please, and pass under your stern--" This proposition was made so suddenly and so unexpectedly that Raoul had not time to object; and had he been disposed to do so, the execution was too prompt to allow him the means.