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Poor Don Estevan related to me how the existence and position of the treasure became known to Cuchillo; it was in assassinating his associate who had first discovered it. "And now if you decide that this man who has twice attempted your life deserves exemplary punishment, you have only to determine upon it."
"To-morrow!" exclaimed Don Estevan; "and who knows but that to-morrow may be too late? Is the night not better for your purpose? Are you not three to one? Who is to assure you that to-morrow I may not change my mind?" This threat seriously alarmed Cuchillo. "Carramba! your excellency is quick to decide; you are not one of those who leave for to-morrow what should be done to-day.
Don Estevan continued: "Wealth followed close upon these honours. Rich appanages, added to the fortune I derived from my ancestors, soon left far behind me, the time when, as a simple cadet of my family, I was worth nothing but my sword. Now I was rich, opulent, and will I tell you? I was still far from being content.
By the light of the fire Don Estevan could be seen walking in the direction whence proceeded the cries of the jaguar that was approaching on the right. He appeared calm as if going out in search of a deer. Tiburcio, at the aspect of the Spanish chief, felt within him that exultation of spirit which danger produces in certain energetic natures; but his dagger was the only weapon he possessed.
Cuchillo, however, knowing that they were not in a fit state for inspection regarded them with an anxious glance. As Don Estevan was about to mount, the outlaw rode up to him, and pointing to the others with an expressive gesture, said, "If your honour desires me to act as guide, and give the order of march, I am ready to enter upon my duties."
Reporting as instructed to Don Estevan Miro, governor of Louisiana, White, the corrupt tool of Spain, stated concerning his confidential mission that the leaders of "Frankland" and "Cumberland district" had "eagerly accepted the conditions" laid down by Gardoqui: to take the oath of allegiance to Spain, and to renounce all submission or allegiance whatever to any other sovereign or power.
"Surrender, Diaz!" cried he, parrying a dagger blow slimed at him; but Diaz resolved not to yield, and for the few minutes during which Pepe was engaged in binding Don Estevan, there was a contest of skill and ability between him and Fabian.
Don Estevan has sent me back to you with a gourd of fresh water, and a horse to bring him on." "He is there," replied Cuchillo, pointing to Tiburcio, who stood at a little distance, "thanks to me he is sound and safe until I have a chance of being once more alone with him," he muttered, in a tone not intended to be heard.
As the tempter, then, I lay at your feet honours, power, and riches, if you will subscribe to my conditions." The solemnity of this exordium, and the imposing manner of Don Estevan, following so closely upon the jocular mien he had hitherto exhibited, made a painful impression upon the mind of the Senator.
"Then you must be growing shortsighted, Senor Cuchillo." "However it happened, I lost myself; and, but for the column of smoke, I should not have regained my way so quickly. I was, however, forced to make a circuit on perceiving a party of Indians, and only owe the start I have got upon them to the speed of my good horse." As he spoke, Don Estevan frowned more than once.
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