n by surprise was he, that neither he nor any of his companions
attempted to defend themselves. Of those who did, one man only escaped
from among them, and we saw them galloping with desperate speed towards
us. Meantime the Spanish cavalry had crossed the stream, and the
traitor advancing to meet them, in a few minutes the unfortunate Inca
was in their power.

We had been so intently watching these events, that we had not observed
what was taking place in another direction. When the chief who had made
his escape was perceived by the Spaniards, several horsemen were sent in
pursuit of him. He urged on his horse with desperate speed over the
rocky and broken ground, at the foot of the sierra on which we stood,
the soldiers every now and then discharging their pieces at him. My
interest increased as he approached, for I fancied that I recognised my
friend Manco. His pursuers got nearer to him, and fired more
frequently. I dreaded lest their shot should take effect. They were
close upon his heels; for his horse, wearied with his long journey and
constant exertion during the day, could scarcely bear him on. Just at
that moment a shout reached my ears, and looking up in the direction
whence it came, I saw Pedro running along the ridge of the hill towards
us. I waved to him as a signal that I had recognised him, and then once
more turned to watch Manco's progress. Tired as was his steed, it was
more accustomed to the rough ground than were those of the Spaniards,
with their heavy arms and accoutrements. The noble animal exerted all
its energies, well aware, it seemed, that a life depended on its speed.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN.

PEDRO FINDS HIS FATHER--MURDER OF THE INCA.

I have said that Don Gomez was at my side. As he saw the Spaniards
drawing near, he turned to me. "Senor David," he said, "these are my
countrymen. The Indians have lost the day."

"You would wish to join them. Is it so?" I asked.

"I would. Have I your permission?" he said.

"You were committed to my charge by yonder chief, who, I trust, will be
with us soon. If he gives you your liberty, your word will not be
broken, though I shall be sorry to part from you," I replied.

"But the Indians are defeated," urged Don Gomez. "Am I to remain a
prisoner for ever?"

"Till he who received your word restores it to you," I again answered;
and while I was speaking, Pedro reached us. For a moment he was too
breathless to speak; and during thi