xiguous table fastened to a bulkhead, and one camp-stool. There was
no particular means of ventilation, and the place smelt of cold iron,
paint, and soft soap. Yet his friend had been about to live at least six
months in this cell, which would have been condemned as too narrow in an
ordinarily well-managed prison.

Nevertheless, it would be pleasant in itself, no doubt, to be a living
part of what most men only read about, to really know what fighting
meant, to be one of the few who are invariably chosen first for missions
of danger and difficulty. Besides, Guido d'Este was just now in a very
difficult situation, which might become dangerous, and from which he saw
no immediate means of escape; and, for once in his life, he almost
envied his friend his simple career, in which nothing seemed to be
required of a man but courage and obedience.

"I suppose I should be bored," he said again, after a short and
thoughtful pause, "but I would rather be bored than live the life I am
living."

The sailor looked at him sharply a moment, and instantly understood that
Guido had brought him to the little garden in order to tell him
something of importance without risk of interruption.

"Have you had more trouble with that horrible old woman?" he asked
roughly.

"Yes. She is draining the life out of me. She will ruin me in the end."

Guido did not look up as he spoke, and he slowly tapped the hard earth
with the toe of his shoe. He felt very helpless, and he shook his head
over his misfortunes, which seemed great.

"That comes of being connected with royalty," said Lamberti, in the same
rough tone.

"Is it my fault?" asked Guido, with a melancholy smile.

The sailor snorted discontentedly, and changed his position.

"What can I do?" he asked presently. "Tell me."

"Nothing."

"If I were only rich!"

"My dear friend," said Guido, "she demands a million of francs!"

"There are men who have fifty. Would a hundred thousand francs be of any
use?"

"Not the least. Besides, that is all you have."

"What would that matter?" asked Lamberti.

Guido looked up at last, for he knew that the words were true and
earnest.

"Thank you," he answered. "I know you would do that for me. But it would
not be of any use. Things have gone too far."

"Shall I go to her and talk the matter over? I believe I could frighten
her into justice. After all, she has no legal claim upon you."

Guido shook his head.

"That is not the question,"