istake not, some
of it should only reach your own ears."

Santander had been already thinking of this, and turning to the officer
by his side, he said--

"Take the men on, Ramirez. Halt at a hundred yards or so, and wait for
me."

In obedience to the order the escort moved on, stopping as directed, the
dialogue between Santander and the dwarf meanwhile continuing. It was
more of a monologue, the latter giving a detailed relation of all that
had occurred to him since the time of their escape from the chain-gang,
with comments and suggestions added.

After hearing all, Santander rose in his stirrups, his features showing
triumph, such as Satan might feel at a world of souls just delivered to
him.

"The game is mine at last!" he muttered to himself, "every trick of it.
They're in a trap now; and when they go out of it, 'twill be to the
_garrota_."

For a moment he sat silent, apparently considering what was his best
course to pursue. Then, seemingly having decided, he called out--

"Ramirez! Send a couple of men to me--the corporal and another."

These, detached from the escort, came trotting back along the road.

"Here, _cabo_! Take charge of this curious specimen. Keep him here,
and see that you hold him safe till you have my orders for releasing
him. Don't stray from this spot as you value your own neck--not an
inch."

Saying which he put spurs to his horse, and rejoined his escort. Then
commanding, "Forward! at the double quick!" they started off at full
gallop towards the city.

CHAPTER FIFTY ONE.

A GRUMBLING GUARD.

Part of the dialogue between Santander and the hunchback was overheard
by Jose--enough of it to give him the trembles. Among its revelations
was nought relating to himself, or his connivance at the escape of the
prisoners. For all, he could see that he was now in as much danger as
they who were in hiding. The Colonel of Hussars had gone on to the
city, perhaps to complete some duty already engaging him, but as likely
to obtain a stronger force. And as his words told, he would return
again; and no doubt make direct for the old monastery, the dwarf guiding
him.

The first thought of the faithful _cochero_ was not about himself, nor
his horses. These might stay in the meadow all night, as they were now
likely to do. The lives of men were at stake--his own among the
number--and his sole purpose now was to get home, report what he had
heard to his young mistress and the C