essity rather than a pleasure
for us; for since the people of the South will not or can not learn our
tongue, we are obliged to become familiar with theirs."

The Signor Deodati, as though a new and sudden thought possessed his mind,
seized his nephew's hand, and fixing his eyes affectionately upon him,
said in a calm tone: "I am pleased with you, Geronimo. Young as you are,
you have conducted prudently the affairs of a large commercial house; you
have acted as an experienced man; in order to please me, you have denied
yourself pleasures which are so seductive to youth. Taking the place of
your father, I have kept a vigilant eye upon you, and it gladdens my old
heart to know that I have in my successor a virtuous cavalier and a
prudent merchant. I know your desires, my son. Be not disturbed, but
hopeful. I undertook a long voyage only to recompense you, if possible,
for your gratitude."

He arose, and said to Mary: "I am loath to leave you, my dear young lady;
but I have a few words to say privately to your father. You will excuse me
more readily, as I yield my place to Geronimo."

Saying this, he walked with Mr. Van de Werve to the extremity of the boat,
where both seated themselves upon a bench.

Trembling with fear, hope, and joyous anticipations, Mary and Geronimo
watched the two parents, endeavoring to divine from the expression of
their countenances the result of their conversation. At first both were
perfectly calm; by degrees they grew more excited; the derisive smile on
the lips of Mr. Van de Werve betrayed the bitterness of his feelings, as
the Signor Deodati in a decided manner counted on his fingers. They were
discussing the great affair--the dowry and inheritance. Their only thought
was money!

Geronimo turned pale as he saw his uncle shake his head with evident
dissatisfaction; and Mary trembled as she noticed the displeased
expression of her father.

The private conversation lasted a long time, and still took no favorable
turn; on the contrary, the two old men ceased speaking, as though
displeased with each other.

Signor Deodati addressed a question to Mr. Van de Werve, to which the
latter replied negatively.

Both then arose, and approaching Geronimo and Mary, sat down in silence.
Their countenances betrayed vexation and mutual displeasure.

The young man, with tearful eyes, looked inquiringly at his uncle. Mary
bowed her head, but her heaving bosom gave evidence of the struggle of her
heart.