It was not precisely because of that shipwreck.

He attracted and interested me the more because he was not to be seen.

The fear that he might have departed suddenly for England--( or for Spain)--caused me a sort of ridiculous depression as though I had missed a unique opportunity.

And it was a joyful reaction which emboldened me to signal to him with a raised arm across that cafe.
I was abashed immediately afterwards, when I saw him advance towards my table with his friend.

The latter was eminently elegant.