Five minutes later, Francis heard shouts and a clashing of weapons suddenly break out.

It lasted but a short time.

Matteo and his band soon returned with the prisoners.
"What! Have you waited, Francisco?
I thought you would be on the other side of the island by this time." "I was in no particular hurry, Matteo; and besides, I want my boat; and although two men can lift her easily enough, she would be a heavy weight to carry so far." "You shall have a dozen, Francisco.

It is owing to you we have taken these prisoners, and that I have had my first bit of excitement since I came out here.
"Sergeant, here are a couple of ducats.

When you have given the prisoners into safe custody, spend the money in wine for the company.
"The water is bitterly cold, I can tell you, Francisco; but otherwise I am warm enough, for one's feet stick to the mud, and it seems, each step, as if one had fifty pounds of lead on one's shoes.