agents among the Cubans. Time and again he has furnished early
information of important events which has subsequently proved correct
in every detail. With such a record in his favor, am I now to doubt
him upon the mere word of a stranger? No, senor, the honor of a
Spaniard forbids. I am obliged, therefore--"

Just here came an interruption of voices at the door. Hearing them,
del Concha, who had remained silent during the foregoing conversation
and apparently careless of what was said concerning him, uttered a few
hurried words to the General in a low tone, and disappeared behind a
screen that stood close at hand. Directly afterwards a lieutenant and
two soldiers entered with a prisoner, whom Ridge recognized as one of
the ragged Cubans who had escorted him to Holguin.

"General," said the officer, saluting, "I bring a Cuban deserter who
claims to have information of pressing importance that he will impart
to no one but yourself, so I have ventured to intrude; but if it is
your pleasure, I will remove him and seek to extort his secret."

"Oh no," replied the commander; "it is not worth the trouble. Let him
speak, and quickly, for I am pressed with business."

"I come, Excellenza," began the deserter, in a trembling voice, "with
the hope of clemency and a reward, to notify your Excellency that this
senor"--here he pointed to Ridge--"is not what he pretends. I was of a
band who captured him on the coast, and I overheard his confession to
our leader. From his own mouth, therefore, I learned that he is a spy,
and--"

"An American bearing false despatches," interrupted the General,
irritably. "You see I already know all that you would say. Remove
your prisoner, soldados." Then, in a lower tone to the officer, he
added: "Take him away and dispose of him. Such _canaille_ are as
troublesome as fleas. Immediately upon completing the job you may
return, as I have other business for you."

With a salute, the officer hurried after his men. At the same time del
Concha emerged from his place of concealment, and the General, turning
to Ridge, said:

"You have doubtless noted, senor, how quickly the information
concerning yourself brought by this gentleman is confirmed. Therefore
you will not be surprised to have me order you into confinement until
your case can be reported to Havana"--at this moment came the startling
sound of a volley of musketry, evidently fired close at hand--"and a
decision concerning it r