and started with his followers to the harbor, where, behind one of the
warehouses, they laid down and took a nap.

At break of day they went to interview Natse, who was trying to get
three hundred men to sail on the "St. George". When they arrived, he
had just engaged a hundred or more, and there seemed no likelihood of
there being a place for Lihoa and his followers, "though Lohe's people
always had the preference". "But", said Natse, "if you have some one
among your people who understands the language of the West well enough
to act as interpreter, perhaps I can arrange for you and a dozen or
more of your friends to go."

Then an idea popped into old Lihoa's head: "Wait until to-night, and I
will bring you an answer," he said. "I think I can get an interpreter."

Lihoa sent his companions to the hamlet with the command, that those
who wished to go on the trip to the Goldland were to get ready
immediately, and he betook himself straight to the College of the Holy
Saviour. There he asked to see the foreign teacher. Father Somazzo
came into the reception room, and learned to his utter astonishment
that the old Chinaman had called to demand his beloved pupil, little
Peppo. Quietly the priest listened while the old man spoke, then took
a pinch of snuff, and said: "My dear friend, for twelve years we have
had this boy in our care, and have spent much time and money on him,
and now that he is old enough to be of use, you ask us to give him to
you. You are unreasonable. Prove in the court that the child is
yours, and then, that we took him illegally, and you can have him. He
has not been brought up in your religion, as you know, but is a
Christian. We have many plans and hopes for him, and I am sure he will
not care to leave us. Go, and may peace attend you."