“ ‘Yes, captain,’ returned Carlini. ‘At nine o’clock tomorrow Rita’s father will be here with the money.’

“ ‘It is well; in the meantime, we will have a merry night; this young girl is charming, and does credit to your taste. Now, as I am not egotistical, we will return to our comrades and draw lots for her.’

“ ‘You have determined, then, to abandon her to the common law?’ said Carlini.

“ ‘Why should an exception be made in her favor?’

“ ‘I thought that my entreaties⁠—’

“ ‘What right have you, any more than the rest, to ask for an exception?’

“ ‘It is true.’

“ ‘But never mind,’ continued Cucumetto, laughing, ‘sooner or later your turn will come.’ Carlini’s teeth clenched convulsively.