d together they set off through the darkness.
The rope they were obliged to leave as it was, having no means of
removing it. Through the little gateway--which Roger had seen this same
man pass on one occasion--they went, and found themselves in another and
much larger courtyard, planted with all kinds of flowering shrubs and
trees. These could only be dimly seen in the darkness, but Roger
judged, from their presence, that they were now going through that part
of the building where the quarters of the occupants were situated.
After a short time, occupied in fast walking, they came to an alleyway,
or small avenue, down which they hastened, and at the end of this was a
closed door of exceptionally stout and strong construction. Roger
believed, seeing it closed, that their attempt at escape had met with a
premature end; but no, the guide pressed a handle gently, and the door
swung open, and as Roger stepped out he felt the cool salt breeze
blowing on his face, and he knew that he was free at last. Free, after
months of weary imprisonment, torture, and suffering; yes, free! His
whole body seemed to expand to the grateful influence of the gentle
sea-breeze; but his heart was very, very sad for the loss of his friend.

The two fugitives plunged onward, across streets, down alleys, and up
steps, until they come to a huge open square, at the rear of which an
enormous building towered high. In the middle of the square was to be
made out, dimly, a pile or heap of some sort, with what looked liked a
short, thick pole, standing upright above it. Roger asked his guide in
a whisper what it was. The man replied:

"This big square is the Plaza of Vera Cruz, and the large building
yonder is the cathedral. That peculiar-shaped object you see there is a
heap of wood and straw surrounding a stake, and on that heap, bound to
that stake, you and your friend were doomed to die to-morrow!"

Roger felt his flesh creep, and hurried forward at an increased rate of
speed. Presently, after going down a very narrow and steep street,
Roger perceived that they had reached the beach, and he heard the dull
"boom" of the surf as it rolled in and broke on the sand.

The guide now spoke to him. "Do you see a small light out there, well
away in the offing?"

"I think I can see something of the kind," replied Roger.

"Well," explained the man, "that vessel is my old ship, the _Elizabeth_.
I was aboard her last time she came out here, and I was