human
I thought you would know me, said the Greek.
gpt
And you must remember I never forget those I have once seen either as friends or foes.
human
No, signor, I perceive you do not, replied the beggar, trembling with alarm.
gpt
Have mercy on me.
human
That depends upon yourself, said the stranger.
gpt
At present, you deserve no mercy at my hands; but I will now give you an opportunity of serving me; and if you do so faithfully, I will overlook the past.
human
You are very generous, signor--you always were, exclaimed the beggar, trying to fall down and embrace his knees, which the Greek prevented.
gpt
I will go to any part of the world. I will go through fire and water to serve you.
human
You have not to go far to perform my directions; but I want faithfulness in the discharge of the duty I shall impose on you, said the Greek, sternly.
gpt
And, mark me, Giacomo--if you play me false, as you have done others, I will find you out, and finish your worthless life with as little compunction as I would that of a rabid dog.
human
Tell me what you want, and by the Holy Virgin and all the saints in heaven I will perform the work faithfully.
gpt
Your oath is superfluous, as you would break it for a copper-piece, so don't insult me with it, replied the Greek, scornfully.
human
But, listen: there is a certain Jew--Aaron Bannech by name--his office--his den--the place where he cheats, and robs, and lies, is beneath the Albergo--in the Strada. Do you hear?
gpt
You know him; it is well that you should--you are an admirable pair. He would sell his soul for a dollar, and would then try to cheat the devil out of it. You are a meaner knave. Half that sum would buy you. You both are useful to me, though. Hasten to him, and tell him that I am here. Say that he must clear out his den of visitors, clerks, or other prying knaves, and that I will be with him in half an hour. When you have done this, go down to the port, and learn what vessels are about to sail, shortly, for the eastward, with all particulars about them--their cargoes--armed force--and number of men--also what ships are expected to arrive shortly from the same quarter. Having gleaned this information, which you well know how to do, come up with it to the residence of the Jew. Listen, also, if anything is said about the _Speronara Volante_, from Syracuse, by which I arrived. Alessandro is her master--or, if any remarks are made respecting me. I am, probably, unnoticed; but it is as well to be cautious.
human
I will strictly obey your directions, signor, said the beggar.
gpt
Have you further orders?
human
No--you may go. I have been talking to you too long already, and may have been observed.
gpt
Rest assured of my fidelity,