Caterina laughed and then instinctively she put her finger to her lips.
“You don’t think anyone could be listening to us?” she asked in a whisper.”
I doubt it,” Malca replied. “The walls of this ship be strong and thick, but it’s best to whisper till we’re well out to sea.”
“I must remember that.”
She climbed into bed and Malca pulled the curtains over the portholes.
Caterina had to admit it was a comfortable cabin and, almost as if she had asked her the question, Malca explained,
“This be the Captain’s cabin and I don’t suppose he really likes givin’ it up to you.”
“I feel sure he begrudges it,” Caterina agreed.
Then in a more anxious voice she asked,
“Where is the Duke sleeping?”
“Next door. This is the only good cabin in the ship. The others are small and not nearly so comfort
