"Yes," said the old fisherman, "this is the boy who appeared to us, like
an angel, and comforted us as we sat in chains. We now lay our thanks
at his feet."

Antonio waved them back and said, "Thank my dear parents, for they
taught me by word and example; and everything I have done is due to
their training."

Then Antonio's father stepped into their midst and raising his eyes to
heaven, said: "All honor and praise we give to God. As always, He has
made everything turn out for the best. He sends us great sorrows for
some good purpose; but He also sends us great joys. When a child follows
the good instructions received from good parents, makes good use of his
talents, and forgets not to be grateful, he will become an instrument of
good for the benefit of humanity. Antonio was sent to you in your
captivity, and through Antonio you were all led back to your liberty.
Let us give thanks."

After a long silence, the conversation again became animated. The men
narrated the varied incidents in their lives, and talked about their
future prospects.

Ashmed gave the men some ready money with which to start in business,
and they promised to repay him as soon as they were able. Ashmed did not
wish the money refunded, but they felt that it would be more manly to do
this.

As the time for departure arrived, the men bade Antonio and Ashmed
good-bye, and were off.