e should undoubtedly
report your conduct to the Burgomaster of Amsterdam, as we intend to
report the conduct of Captain Jan Dunck, when we get there. And now,
Baron, since it seems to be all up with the one-eyed mariner, and as at
present we can do nothing to punish the perpetrator of the cruel deed,
what shall we do with ourselves?"

"I propose that we request this ancient fisherman to conduct us to some
hostelry, where we can obtain those creature comforts which we so much
need, and wait in quiet and security till the storm is over. Worthy
friend," he continued, turning to the ancient fisherman, "I beg that you
will have the goodness to conduct us to some inn, where we may obtain a
dinner and rest after our adventures on the stormy ocean."

"An inn," ejaculated the ancient fisherman. "We have no inns in Marken,
as few travellers are in the habit of visiting us. If, however, you
will accept such hospitality as I can offer, you shall be welcome to
it."

"With all our hearts," answered the Count and the Baron in chorus, and
they followed the ancient fisherman, who led the way into the interior
of the island. After passing through several narrow and dirty lanes
they emerged into a more open space, where they found themselves
surrounded by neat cottages, among which a number of people were moving
about.

The men were all dressed as sailors--a brown knitted waistcoat and wide
knickerbockers tied at the knees, thick black or blue woollen stockings,
and wooden sabots or shoes, These sabots, the Count and the Baron
observed, were taken off when the men entered a hut, so that it could be
known how many people were inside by the number of sabots at the door.
The women wore brown or chintz waistcoats, and short dark petticoats;
many of them had their hair hanging down on either side of the face in
long thick curls; their head-dresses were high white caps rounded at the
summit and lined with some coloured material.

"Here is my house," said the ancient fisherman, opening the door of one
of the neatest cottages in the place, "and there is my vrouw."

As he spoke an old lady got up and welcomed the travellers. She wore
the dress which has been described, especially clean and picturesque,
and in addition several gold ornaments. The cottage contained many
marks of thrift; two carved oaken wardrobes stood one on either side,
there was a clock of elaborate workmanship, and china plates of a
curious pattern. A cheerful fir