Cuffe, Griffin, and the two Italians descended from the taffrail and awaited the approach of the supposed lazzarone or boatman of Capri, as he was now believed to be, near the stern of the vessel.

By an arrangement among themselves, Vito Viti became the spokesman; Griffin translating to the captain all that passed in an undertone as soon as it was uttered.
"Come hither, friend," commenced the podesta, in a patronizing but somewhat lofty manner; "this generous and noble English captain, Sir Kooffe, desires me to present you with a ducat, by way of showing that he asks no more of you than he is willing to pay for, A ducat[7] is a great deal of money, as you know; and good pay merits good services." [7] The silver ducat of Naples is worth 80 grani, or rather less than 80 cents: the golden ducat, or sequin, of Italy, Holland, Turkey, etc., is worth a trifle more than two American dollars.

Raoul was offered the former.
"S'nore, si; your eccellenza says the truth; a good ducat certainly deserves good services." "Bene.

Now, tell these signori all you know about that said lugger; where you saw her; when you saw her; and what she was about.

Keep your mind clear and tell us one thing at a time." "S'nore, si.