The passenger, however, was well satisfied with the speed, for they passed two or three other gondolas before issuing from the narrow canals, and starting across the broad stretch of the lagoon.
Not a word was spoken until the gondola neared its destination.

Then the passenger said: "You row well.

If you like the job I may employ you again." "We are always ready to earn money," Francis said, speaking in a gruff voice quite unlike his own.
"Very well.

I will let you know, as we return, what night I shall want you again.

I suppose you can keep your mouths shut on occasion, and can go without gossiping to your fellows as to any job on which you are employed ?" "We can do that," Francis said.