end themselves so well."

At this allusion to Yanguitlan, which will be understood in the sequel,
Regules bit his lips with suppressed chagrin, at the same time darting a
look of concentrated hatred upon his rival.

To the view of the case presented by Regules, the General-in-chief was
disposed to give in his adhesion. Less accessible to mere punctilios of
honour than his younger officers, he saw in the advice of the brigadier
reasons that were not wanting in a certain solidity. Without, however,
availing himself of the full authority of his rank, he proposed an
intermediate course. It was, that on the morrow, they should try one
last and powerful attack; and if that should prove a failure then they
might raise the siege.

While Bonavia was still speaking a singular noise reached the tent, as
if coming from the besieged town. It appeared as a chorus of many
voices intoning some solemn chaunt. This was followed by the clangour
of horns and trumpets, and the explosion of fireworks--as if let off
upon the occasion of a jubilee.

"These rejoicings," remarked Regules, "are an ill omen for us. It is
not to-morrow that the siege should be raised, but this very day."

"That is to say," rejoined Caldelas, "that we should take to flight
before an exhibition of fireworks!"

"Or, like the walls of Jericho, fall down at the sound of trumpets!"
added the Colonel.

"Well," said Regules, "perhaps before long you may learn to your cost
that I have been right."

In spite of his opinion, however, a last assault was determined upon, to
take place on the following morning; and after the plans were discussed
and arranged, Bonavia dissolved the council; and the officers proceeded
to their respective tents.

Don Rafael hastened towards his: he was anxious to be alone. He desired
to indulge in reflection--to ponder upon the meaning of the message he
had received--and above all to caress the sweet ray of hope which had
lately entered his heart, so long desolate and sad.

He did not even deign to lend an ear to the tumultuous rejoicings that
came swelling from the beleaguered town; although the whole Royalist
camp was at that moment occupied with these demonstrations, the soldiers
deeming them, as Regules had pronounced, sounds of sinister import.

CHAPTER FORTY FIVE.

VALERIO TRUJANO.

In Colonel Valerio Trujano the reader will recognise the ex-muleteer,
who, it will be remembered, declined exposing his life to the cha