A few hours after Pisani's release the merchant, accompanied by Francis, called upon him.
"Welcome, my friends," he said heartily.
"Well, you see, Messer Hammond, that I was a true prophet, and that I have had my share of the dungeon.

However, we need not talk of that now.

I am up to my eyes in business." "I have no doubt of that, admiral," Polani said.

"I have called to offer every ship I have in the harbour, for the defence of the city.

I myself will continue to pay their crews, as at present.