Their drive resembled a triumphal procession.

The old Deodati was deeply moved.

He seemed rejuvenated.

A sweet smile was upon his lips, and he looked proudly upon Geronimo.

Thus full of the thought of their future happiness, they reached the dock-yard.
In the middle of the Scheldt was the _Il Salvatore_, decked with flags and rocking upon the waves as if conscious of the precious treasure about to be confided to it.
A part of the sailors were occupied in unmooring the vessel; even the harsh grating sound of the capstan could be heard on the wharf.