And to Gustavo's amazement, he fell in beside them and strolled over to the water steps.

His recklessness was catching; Gustavo suddenly determined upon a bold stroke himself.
"Signorina," he asked, "zat man I send, zat donk' driver--you like heem ?" "Tony ?" Her manner was indifferent.

"Oh, he does well enough; he seems honest and truthful, though a little stupid." Gustavo and the young man exchanged glances.
"And Gustavo," she turned to him with a sweetly serious air that admitted no manner of doubt but that she was in earnest.

"I told this young man that in case he cared to do any mountain climbing, you would find him the same guide.

It would be very useful for him to have one who speaks English." Gustavo bowed in mute acquiescence.