Part 56 (1/2)
”Indeed, I do not.”
”I will explain.”
”You will cause me pleasure.”
”Sometimes our Captain or General entrusts us with a mission.”
”Very good.”
”This mission is paid for separately; the more dangerous it is, the larger the amount.”
”Still on credit?”
”No, hang it; in advance.”
”That is better. And have you many of these missions?”
”Frequently, especially during a p.r.o.nunciamento.”
”Yes, but for nearly a year no General has p.r.o.nounced.”
”Unluckily.”
”Then you are quite dry?”
”Not quite.”
”You have had missions?”
”I have one at this moment.”
”Well paid?”
”Decently.”
”Would there be any harm in asking how much?”
”Not at all; I have received twenty-five ounces.”
”Cristo! that is a nice sum. The mission must be a dangerous one to be paid so highly.”
”It is not without peril.”
”Hum! In that case take care.”
”Thank you, but I run no heavy risk; I have only to deliver a letter.”
”It is true that a letter--” the American carelessly remarked.
”Oh! this one is more important than you fancy it.”