ta Fe, There a prison will
hold him safe, and a court-martial can be called, which, with the spirit
just now abroad, will condemn him in one day, and execute him on the
morning of the next. That would keep you clear from all suspicion of
over-haste, which may attach to you if you take the thing into your own
hands here."

"Bah! you talk like a child, teniente! The security of a prison in New
Mexico, or the chances of a prisoner being condemned, far less executed,
are things merely imaginary. All the more now that there's some
probability of a change in the political sky. Clouds have shown
themselves on the horizon at the capital--talk that our good friend
Gameleg is going out again. Before the storm comes I for one intend
making myself secure. As the husband of Adela Miranda, owning all that
belongs to her brother, and which will be hers after his death, I shall
care but little who presides in the Halls of the Moctezumas.
Priest-party or patriots, 'twill be all the same to me."

"Why not become her husband and let the brother live?"

"Why? Because that cannot be."

"I don't see any reason against it. Both are in your power. You may
easily make terms."

Uraga, impressed with the observation, remains for a while silent,
considering. To aid reflection he smokes harder than ever.

Resuming speech, he asks,--

"How do you counsel?"

"As I've said, colonel. Make terms with Miranda. Knowing his life to
be in your hands, he will listen to reason. Extract from him a
promise--an oath, if need be--that he will consent to his sister
becoming your wife; at the same time settling a portion of his property
on the newly married pair. It's big enough to afford all of you a
handsome income. That's what I would do."

"He might promise you here. What security against breaking his word
when we get to Albuquerque?"

"No need waiting for Albuquerque to give him the chance. You seem to
forget that there are churches between, and priests not over-scrupulous.
For instance, the cure of Anton Chico, and his reverence who saves
souls in the pueblita of La Mora. Either one will make man and wife of
you and the Senorita Adela without asking question beyond whether you
can produce coin sufficient to pay the marriage fees. Disbursing
freely, you may ensure the ceremonial in spite of all protest, if any
should arise. There can be none."

Uraga lights a fresh cigar, and continues smoking, reflecting. The
counsel of his