The Invasion

"Who knows?" said Orloff, laughing. "Do you understand, for example, how
to break into a house and steal gold and diamonds, without being caught
in the act?"

"That," said Joseph, thoughtfully, "I should hope to be able to
accomplish. I have, indeed, as yet, had no experience in that line, but
in the galleys I have listened to the soundest instructions, and heard
the experiences of the greatest master of that art, with the curiosity
of an emulous student!"

Orloff laughed. "You are a sly fellow," said he, "and please me much.
If you act as well as you talk, we shall soon be good friends! Well,
to-morrow night you make your first essay. The business is an invasion."

"And that shall be my masterpiece!" responded Joseph Ribas.

"If you succeed, I will, in the name of my illustrious empress,
immediately take you into her service, and you become an officer of the
Russian marine."

Joseph Ribas stared at him with astonishment. "That is certainly an
immense honor and a great good fortune," said he, "only I should like
to know if the Russian marine engages in sea-fights, and if the officers
are obliged to stand under fire?"

"Yes, indeed," cried Orloff, laughing, "but in such cases you can
conceal yourself behind the cannon until the fight is over!"

"I shall remember your wise suggestion in time of need!" seriously
responded Joseph Ribas, bowing to the count.(*) "And where, your
excellency, is to be the scene of my present activity? Where am I to
gain my epaulets?"