" Tristram stared at the
old gentleman, who was of a tall unwieldy figure, short bull neck and
choleric complexion.
"You will see him again shortly?"
"With God's help I shall see him in three days' time."
"Then I'd be obliged by your taking him a message from me. Tell him,
sir, that I, Captain Van Adrienssen, may be heard of at The Hague at
any time, and have not forgotten a certain promise of his (to cut my
comb) which he uttered at one time when our ships lay alongside off
the Texel. Assure him that, though night parted us, I still retain
the boot which he flung at my head and into my ship. Say that I have
been waiting ever since for the man who fits that boot, and warn him
that we are both well stricken in years and have little time left in
which to try conclusions. You have that by heart?"
"Yes, sir."
"Repeat it."
Tristram did so.
"Very well; now be careful to deliver it."
And, nodding his head sharply, the old gentleman hurried away on his
business just as the Earl and Captain Salt returned from their
colloquy.
CHAPTER IX.
THE FOUR MEN AT THE "WHITE LAMB".
"Well, my son," began Captain Salt, as the Earl reascended the
stairs. "Thanks be that we are alone together at last! Do I not
keep my promises?"
"Indeed, father, you are kind.
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