I commend the top of the main-mast to Senor as a spot of Spanish territory where he may learn better manners.

Sir Ludar,"-- and he turned to Ludar before I could say a word, his bearing changing to that of a gentleman who speaks to a gentleman--"I desire a letter of import to reach the Duke- Admiral by an honourable hand.

Will you take the cock-boat and deliver it ?" This sudden compliment--for it was nothing short--staggered Ludar for a moment, and he looked quickly up to see if the Don were not trifling with him.

But Don Alonzo was grave and serious.
So Ludar said, shortly: "I will;" and the interview ended.
It went sorely against my stomach then to have to mount to my perch in the main-tops, and I felt a little hurt that Ludar had put in never a word on my behalf.

I remember reflecting, as I slowly scrambled to my penance, how strange it was that for so small a difference of demeanour I should be sent aloft, while Ludar was appointed to a task of honour.
But I understood not Spaniards--thank Heaven!--nor did I know much about gentlemen.
At the foot of the mast Ludar came up.
"I am sorry for you, Humphrey," said he.