s
defenses. Some of the obstructions behind which Juanita was now concealed
could scarcely have originated in chance.

Marcos had, in the course of his long antagonism against wolf or bear or
boar in the Central Pyrenees, more than once experienced that sharp shock
of astonishment and fear to which the big-game hunter can scarcely remain
indifferent when he finds himself opposed by an unmistakable sign of an
intelligence equal to his own or an instinct superior to it, subtly
meeting his subtle attack. This he experienced now, and knew that he
himself was being watched and his every action forestalled. The effect
was to make him the more dogged, the more cunning in his quest. Because
he knew that Juanita's cause was in competent hands, or for some other
reason, Sarrion withdrew from taking such an active part as heretofore.

His keen and careful eyes noted a change in Marcos. Juanita's
helplessness seemed to have aroused a steady determination to help her at
any cost. Weakness is an appeal that strength rarely resists.

It was Marcos who finally discovered an opportunity, and with
characteristic patience he sifted it, and organised a plan of action
before making anything known to his father.

"There is a service in the Cathedral of La Seo tomorrow evening," he
announced suddenly at midnight one night on his return from a long and
tiring day. "All the girls of the convent schools will be there."

"Ah!" said Sarrion, looking his son up and down with a speculative eye.
"Well?"

"My aunt... Sor Teresa... is likely to be there. She has returned to
Saragossa to-day. The Mother Superior--by the grace of God--has
indigestion. I have got a letter safely through to Sor Teresa. The
service is at seven o'clock. The Archbishop will go in procession round
the Cathedral to bless the people. The Cathedral is very dark. There will
be considerable confusion when the doors are opened and the people crowd
out. I have a few men--of the road, from the Posada de los Reyes--who
will add to the confusion under my instructions. I think if you help me
we can get Juanita separated from the rest. I will take her home and see
to it that she arrives at the school at the same time as the others. We
can arrange it, I think."

"Yes," answered Sarrion. "I have no doubt that we can arrange it."

And they sat far into the night, after the manner of conspirators,
discussing Marcos' plans, which were, like himself, quite simple and
direct.

The Cat