tale would never have been told.

Asking the reader's pardon for a personal digression--with the excuse
that it may throw light on the scene to follow--it will be understood
how easily the guard on duty at the gate might be "thrown off guard" by
a carriage passing through it; especially on that day when there were so
many, by reason of the grand doings in the city.

Several had just passed, going country-wards; for it was the season of
rural sojourn among the "ricos." So, when another appeared, heading in
the same direction, the guard-sergeant at Nino Perdido saw nothing
amiss, or to be suspicious of; instead, something to inspire him with
respect. He had been on guard at the Palace scores of times; and by
appearance knew all who were accustomed to pass in and out, more
especially those holding authority. Liveries he could distinguish at
any distance; and when he saw a carriage approaching along the street,
with a coachman in sky-blue and silver, cockaded, he did not need its
being near to recognise the equipage of one of the Cabinet Ministers.

Though a non-commissioned officer, he was a man of ambitious aims;
dreaming of gold bullion in the shape of epaulettes; and he had long had
his eye on the epaulette of an _alferez_--officers of this rank being
allowed only one. The good word of a Cabinet Minister, whether war,
navy, or _Hacienda_, could give him what he was wishing for, easy at a
nod; and here was an opportunity of winning it.

"_Cabo_!" he cried out to his corporal, in a flurry of excitement,
"throw open the gate--quick! Fall in, men! Dress up--ready to present
arms! See that you do it handsomely!"

It was in his favour, and so he congratulated himself that the carriage
came on rather slowly, so that he had ample time to get his half-dozen
files well set-up and dressed for the salute.

There was some buttoning of jackets, stocks to be adjusted round
shirtless necks, with shakos to be searched for inside the guard-house,
and hurriedly clapped on. Still, it was all got through in good time;
and, when at length the carriage came abreast, the guard was found
standing at "present arms," the sergeant himself saluting in the most
gracious manner.

They inside, knowing how, returned the salute in true soldier style,
though with a surprised expression upon their faces. No wonder. Where
they had anticipated difficulty and danger, they were received with more
than civility--accorded military honours!