Kara Aziek had retired to another part of the cabin, and taking up some needlework, ventured not to share in a discourse, where every word was of consequence to Sebastian, who alone could know how much to withhold or to confide. She observed that he never mentioned Blanche, that he prayed leave to postpone telling the whole of his adventures, and that although he spoke of England, France, and Holland, as favourably disposed towards him, he did so in general terms; declining further explanation, until Venice had determined on what course she would pursue. Signor Giuseppe understood only, that the King of Portugal was going to seek some old friend in Sicily; and solemnly swearing not to confide that secret, even to his brother, he promised to be speedy in dispatching news of success or failure, to Messina. Thus situated, the vessel brought them to the mouth of the Venetian gulph. So many ships were proceeding to Venice, that Signor Morosini found no difficulty in procuring the passage he sought: he renewed his promises of secresy and devotedness, and getting into a felucca, was soon removed from the vessel of Sebastian. Filled with unexpected satisfaction by this Providential rencontre, and led to hope complete success, since Philip was snatched from the world, Sebastian discouraged not the expression of Kara Aziek’s joyful feelings. He believed that the terror of Philip’s name no longer operating to intimidate other sovereigns, past injuries would make them rise to limit the power of his successor, such an event must prove a signal for Portugal to start forward in her own cause: and if at the same time her long-lost monarch should appear at the head of a confederate army, would not his miraculous appearance stimulate them to victory. It was now that the sun once more shone out over the darkened fate of Sebastian: how various, how trying had been his lot! but he was becoming accustomed to change; and that equanimity of soul which so peculiarly distinguishes those who have passed through many vicissitudes, was already visible, equally under sunshine or under storms. Kara Aziek was less philosophic, and more animated; she thought their allotted time of suffering had reached its termination, and fondly anticipating a re-union with her daughter, trusted that after this moment, their destiny must remain bright and secure. The wind favored her eagerness: their vessel proceeded rapidly, and gained the port of Messina. The house of Marco Cattizone (a name assumed by Gaspar, who believed it prudent to lull curiosity, by passing for an Italian) was easily discovered: as Sebastian and Kara Aziek approached it, their hearts throbbed with apprehension, lest they should not find him: if he were gone to England with Blanche, another tedious voyage must be taken.