It was in reply to a salute from the Marquis de Rouaillout, and Nevil beheld his rival.
'M.

le Marquis, seeing it is out of the question that we can come to you, will you come to us ?' cried Roland.
The marquis gesticulated 'With alacrity' in every limb.
'We will bring you back on to-morrow midnight's tide, safe, we promise you.' The marquis advanced a foot, and withdrew it.

Could he have heard correctly?
They were to be out a whole night at sea! The count dejectedly confessed his incapability to restrain them: the young desperadoes were ready for anything.

He had tried the voice of authority, and was laughed at.

As to Renee, an English lady was with her.
'The English lady must be as mad as the rest,' said the marquis.
'The English are mad,' said the count; 'but their women are strict upon the proprieties.' 'Possibly, my dear count; but what room is there for the proprieties on board a fishing-boat ?' 'It is even as you say, my dear marquis.' 'You allow it ?' 'Can I help myself?
Look at them.