hairs, and smoking big
cigars.

"Here are the prisoners, general," announced our conductor.

The man at the table, looking up, glanced first at Carmen, then at me.

"_Caramba!_" he exclaimed, with a stare of surprise, "you and I have met
before, I think."

I returned the stare with interest, for though I recognized him I could
hardly believe my own eyes.

"On the field of Salamanca?"

"Of course. You are the English officer who behaved so insolently and got
me reprimanded." (This in French.)

"I did no more than my duty. It was you that behaved insolently."

"Take care what you say, senor, or _por Dios_--There is no English general
to whom you can appeal for protection now. What are you doing here?"

"Not much good, I fear. Your men brought me: I had not the least desire to
come, I assure you."

"You were caught on the hill yonder, surveying the town through a glass,
and Sergeant Prim overheard part of a conversation which leaves no doubt
that you are officers in Mejia's army. Besides, you were seen coming from
the quarter where he encamped this morning. Is this so?"

Carmen and I exchanged glances. My worst fears were confirmed--we had been
betrayed.

"Is this so? I repeat."

"It is."

"And have you, an English officer who has fought for Spain, actually sunk
so low as to serve with a herd of ruffianly rebels?"

"At any rate, General Griscelli, I never deserted to the enemy."

The taunt stung him to the quick. Livid with rage he sprung from his chair
and placed his hand on his sword.

"Do you know that you are in my power?" he exclaimed. "Had you uttered
this insult in Spanish instead of in French, I would have strung you up
without more ado."

"You insulted me first. If you are a true caballero give me the
satisfaction which I have a right to demand."

"No, senor; I don't meet rebels on the field of honor. If they are common
folk I hang them; if they are gentlemen I behead them."

"Which is in store for us, may I ask?"

"_Por Dios!_ you take it very coolly. Perhaps neither."

"You will let me go, then?"

"Let you go! Let you go! Yes, I _will_ let you go," laughing like a man
who has made a telling joke, or conceived a brilliant idea.

"When?"

"Don't be impatient, senor; I should like to have the pleasure of your
company for a day or two before we part. Perhaps after--What is the
strength of Mejia's army?"

"I decline to say."

"I think I could make you say, though, if it were worth