It was not very pleasant to the commandant of Albuquerque to see Captain
Gil Uraga in command of the subsidy thus granted him. But the lancer
officer met him in a friendly manner, professing cordiality, apparently
forgetful of their duelling feud, and, at least outwardly, showing the
submission due to the difference of their rank.

Engaged in frequent affairs with the Indians, and expeditions in pursuit
of them, for a while things seemed to go smoothly enough.

But as Adela Miranda had now returned home, and was residing with her
brother, in the interludes of tranquillity he could not help having some
concern for her. He was well aware of Uraga's aspirations; and, though
loathing the very sight of the man, he was, nevertheless, compelled to
tolerate his companionship to a certain extent, and could not well deny
him the _entree_ of his house.

At first the subordinate bore himself with becoming meekness. Mock
humility it was, and soon so proved itself. For, as the days passed,
rumours reached the distant department of New Mexico that the old tyrant
Santa Anna was again returning to power. And, in proportion as these
gained strength, so increased Gil Uraga's confidence in himself, till at
length he assumed an air of effrontery--almost insolence--towards his
superior officer; and towards the sister, in the interviews he was
permitted with her, a manner significantly corresponding.

These were few, and still less frequent, as his brusque behaviour began
to manifest itself. Observing it, Colonel Miranda at length came to the
determination that the lancer captain should no longer enter into his
house--at least, by invitation. Any future relations between them must
be in the strict execution of their respective military duties.

"Yes, sister," he said, one afternoon, as Adela was buckling on his
sword-belt, and helping to equip him for the evening parade, "Uraga must
come here no more. I well understand the cause of his contumacious
behaviour. The priest party is again getting the ascendency. If they
succeed, heaven help poor Mexico. And, I may add, heaven help us!"

Drawing the girl to his bosom with a fond affectionate embrace, he gave
her a brother's kiss. Then, striding forth, he sprang upon a saddled
horse held in waiting, and rode off to parade his troops on the _plaza_
of Albuquerque.

A ten minutes' trot brought him into their presence. They were not
drawn up in line, or other formation, to receive