Finding himself in a dilemma, he was resolved to make an effort to reap, if possible, some advantage from his critical situation.

Accordingly, after he had taken his coffee and given his orders, the boat's crew was called, and he left the lugger's side.

All this was done tranquilly, as if the appearance of the stranger in the offing gave no trouble to any in le Feu-Follet.
On this occasion the boat pulled boldly into the little harbor, its officer touching the shore at the common landing.

Nor were the men in any haste to return.

They lounged about the quay, in waiting for their captain, cheapening fruits, chatting with the women in such Italian as they could muster, and affecting to understand the French of the old sea-dogs that drew near them, all of whom knew more or less of that universal language, with difficulty.