So, on reviewing the
matter of our matrimonial squabbles calmly and dispassionately, I came
to the conclusion that there had been faults on both sides, and I made
up my mind to be more conciliatory and less exacting in my conduct
toward Pauline in the future, hoping by these means to effect a
reconciliation so that I might live with some degree of comfort in my
own house. To this end also I resolved to give Pauline my share of the
pearls aid as ransom by King Thedori, in order that she might possess a
necklace unequalled at Amsterdam. Besides which I had my rubies.
Hartog also had become graver and more reserved than was his habit
before we had set out upon this voyage. He seemed to regret the
well-deserved fate which had overtaken Donna Isabel Barreto, and he
would have asked nothing better than to set off on a voyage of
discovery in search of her.
So it was with subdued and chastened spirits that Hartog and I arrived
at Amsterdam, where it was arranged that Hartog should dispose of our
rich cargo and apportion the profits of the venture. As a peace
offering to Pauline I took with me twenty splendid pearls and six
silver fox-skins, and, thus provided, I presented myself at my house
at Amsterdam, to which I was at first denied admittance by the
man-servant, who opened the door to me, and who had no knowledge of
my identity.
Pages:
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306