"I suppose you have noticed that plants grow in the apertures and crevices of the Rock, though nothing of the sort can be seen from the water. Asparagus, capers, aloes, and cacti thrive here, and even grassy and wooded glens are found in places. Now we will go down to the Almeda, which is the Spanish name for a park, as you learned when you were in Cuba." This beautiful garden is located near Europa Point, the southern extremity of the peninsula of Gibraltar. It is on the very border of the sea, and is very tastefully laid out in English style, with winding walks, and with a great variety of plants and shrubs which thrive in this climate, including cacti and some trees of considerable size. From shady arbors fine views were obtained of the surroundings, including the mountains in Africa. The party had made the ascent of the rock and the return on mules and donkeys, and the big four had lots of fun with the latter. That of Scott was so small that he picked him up in his arms and carried him some distance, to the great amusement of the lookers-on. When they reached the Ragged Stairs, the company embarked in the little steamer, and, as it was not yet four o'clock, they made an excursion in her around the Rock. The American consul had been invited to dine on board, and he was a member of the party. As soon as her passengers had disembarked, Louis and Scott were sent over in the Salihé to Algeciras for Judge Salazar, and returned with him before dinner-time. He was received on board with the "most distinguished consideration." CHAPTER XVI AN ADDITION FOR THE FUN OF THE BIG FOUR The position of honor at the table on the right of the commander was given to Judge Salazar, and Mrs. Belgrave was placed next to him. The consul was on his left, with Mrs. Woolridge beside him. Louis was assigned to the opposite end of the table, with the boys next to him. Mr. Sage and Monsieur Odervie had done their best, and the dinner was praised with great enthusiasm by all the guests. The judge made himself exceedingly agreeable to Mrs. Belgrave, and gave her a great deal of information in regard to Spain; but the principal subject of conversation was her son, who was "_muy ricos_," and his mother gave him an epitome of the life of the young millionaire, including the recovery of the missing million which had made him so rich. The commander asked him if any suspicions were attached to the Salihé as concerned in any smuggling ventures. He could only learn that the officers of the customs kept a close watch upon her. Gray said he had engaged her to tow out the Golondrina; but he proved that he was such a liar he could not be believed, or the little steamer would have been seized.