Although imputations coming from such a source ought not to have been looked upon without suspicion, they did not entirely fail in making some impression on my master’s mind; and I soon perceived, notwithstanding the implicit confidence he pretended to place in me, that he kept a strict watch over all my actions. On my side, without taking notice of his unjust suspicions, I continued to serve him with fidelity, keeping my eyes always open to any snares my enemies might lay for me. In spite of all my vigilance, however, I fell a prey to Soto’s malice, who instigated one of the Knight’s servants to steal a piece of plate out of his master’s cabin and hide it under my bed between two boards. I soon missed it, and told my master of the loss in a manner which ought to have convinced him that I was not the thief. But I was not believed, and it was at last found where it had been concealed. The Captain, thinking that I had stolen it, in spite of all I could allege in my defence, condemned me to receive fifty lashes; but my master begged me off, on condition that if any thing were again lost, I should have no mercy. Finding, by this adventure, that I had secret enemies, who were determined to ruin me, I humbly prayed the Captain and my master to take another in my place, and permit me to return to my oar, rather than be exposed to such another misfortune. My master misinterpreted my intentions; and, thinking that I was more desirous of returning to the Commissary’s than of continuing in his service, he determined to keep me whether I would or no. Patience, therefore, was my only remedy, and I stood as much on my guard as I could night and day; yet, watchful as I was, I could not escape. My master having returned from the town one night, sent for me to assist in undressing him. I gave him his gown and nightcap; and while I carried his sword and gloves from one cabin to another, some rascal stole the hat-band. I never could find out how this trick had been executed; but when I was brushing the hat the next morning, I discovered that the band was missing. At this sight I turned as pale as death; looked for it every where, but all in vain; there were thieves on board that galley at least my match. Nothing was left for me to do but to implore the Knight’s mercy; but when I related my new misfortune to him, as well as the malignity of my enemies, to which I attributed it, he laughed in my face. “Mr. Guzman,” said he, with a sneer, “I am well persuaded that you are a person of the greatest integrity, although you have not that reputation on board this galley; and I have been told, more than once, of my boldness in having trusted you. Once more, I think you an honest man, and am, therefore, sorry to tell you, that if you do not forthwith produce my hat-band, you must be delivered over to the Under-commissary, who will, doubtless, treat you according to your deserts. This you may rely upon, notwithstanding your protestations of fidelity.”