expected executioners. Well, we must supply their places by
substituting our own cut-throats."

"You'll find them willing, colonel. The little interlude of Miranda
getting loose, and making to run you through, has been all in your
favour. It affords sufficient pretext for court-martialling and
condemning both prisoners to be shot I've heard the men say so, and they
expect it."

"They shall not be disappointed, nor have long to wait. The court has
finished its sitting, and given its verdict. Without dissenting voice,
the prisoners are condemned to death. So much for the sentence. Now to
carry it into execution."

"How is the thing to be done?"

"Call in the sergeant. With him I shall arrange that. And when you're
out, go among the men and say a word to prepare them for the measure.
You may tell them we've been trying the prisoners, and the result
arrived at."

The adjutant steps out of the tent; and while Uraga is swallowing
another cup of Catalan to fortify him for his fearful purpose, the
sergeant enters.

"_Sergente_! there's some business to be done of a delicate nature, and
you must take direction of it."

The Serjeant salutes, and stands awaiting the explanation. The colonel
continues:--

"We intend taking our prisoners no farther--the men, I mean. With the
women we have nothing to do--as prisoners. After what you saw, we deem
it necessary that Don Valerian Miranda should die; and also the other,
who is equally incriminated as a traitor to the State--a rebel, an old
conspirator, well known. Lieutenant Roblez and I have held a court, and
decreed their death. So order the men to load their carbines, and make
ready to carry out the sentence."

The sergeant simply nods assent, and, again saluting, is about to
retire, when Uraga stays him with a second speech.

"Let all take part in the firing except Galvez. Post him as sentry over
the square tent. Direct him to stand by its entrance and see that the
flap is kept down. Under no circumstances is he to let either of its
occupants out. It's not a spectacle for women--above all, one of them.
Never mind; we can't help that I'm sorry myself, but duty demands this
rigorous measure. Now go. First give Galvez his orders; then to the
men and get them ready. Make no more noise than is necessary. Let your
lancers be drawn up in line; afoot, of course, and single file."

"Where am I to place the prisoners, colonel?"

"Ah! true; I did not think