hem for ever--and
then perhaps I may obtain the fair Amine also. Yes, their death will be
necessary to secure either; that is, after I have the first in my
possession. Let me think."

For some minutes the commandant walked up and down the room, reflecting
upon the best method of proceeding. "He says it was a spectre, and he
has told a plausible story," thought he; "but I don't know--I have my
doubts; they may be tricking me. Well, be it so. If the money is
there, I will have it; and if not, I will have my revenge. Yes! I have
it: not only must they be removed, but by degrees all the others too who
assist in bringing the treasure away. Then--but--who's there, Pedro?"

"Yes, signor."

"How long have you been here?"

"But as you spoke, signor; I thought I heard you call."

"You may go--I want nothing."

Pedro departed; but he had been some time in the room, and had overheard
the whole of the commandant's soliloquy.

CHAPTER THIRTY FOUR.

It was a bright morning when the Portuguese vessel on which Amine was on
board entered into the bay and roadstead of Goa. Goa was then at its
zenith,--a proud, luxurious, superb, wealthy city--the capital of the
East--a city of palaces whose viceroy reigned supreme. As they
approached the river, the two mouths of which form the island upon which
Goa is built, the passengers were all on deck; and the Portuguese
captain, who had often been there, pointed out to Amine the most
remarkable buildings. When they had passed the forts, they entered the
river, the whole line of whose banks were covered with the country seats
of the nobility and hidalgos--splendid buildings embosomed in groves of
orange-trees, whose perfume scented the air.

"There, signora, is the country palace of the viceroy," said the
captain, pointing to a building which covered nearly three acres of
ground.

The ship sailed on until they arrived nearly abreast of the town, when
Amine's eyes were directed to the lofty spires of the churches, and
other public edifices; for Amine had seen but little of cities during
her life, as may be perceived when her history is recollected.

"That is the Jesuits' church, with their establishment," said the
captain, pointing to a magnificent pile. "In the church now opening
upon us lie the canonised bones of the celebrated Saint Francisco, who
sacrificed his life in his zeal for the propagation of the Gospel in
these countries."

"I have heard of him from Father