oundly was he convinced that it would be impossible to
bring about Jack's removal by an attempt to involve him in the political
unrest of the islanders. Some other means must be tried. He wondered
whether, perchance, it might be possible to frighten the young man into
an early departure from the casa Montijo and the island. It was not a
very easy matter to frighten an Englishman, he knew, and this particular
one impressed Alvaros as being especially unpromising in that respect;
still, there was no harm in trying. Accordingly when, upon the next day
but one, the Spaniard again rode over to call upon the Montijos, he made
an opportunity to take Jack on one side for a moment and ask him whether
he had yet fixed a date for his departure from the island.

"A date for my departure?" echoed Jack. "Certainly not, Senor. On the
contrary, it is my intention to make quite a long stay here, and see
Cuba from end to end. It is even possible that I may decide to purchase
a property on the island, and try my luck as a tobacco planter."

"I fervently trust not, Senor, for your own sake," said Alvaros.
"Permit me to offer you a little friendly advice. Cut short your visit,
and leave Cuba at once. I advise you, as a friend, to do so."

"Indeed!" said Jack. "And why, pray? Of course you have some good
reason for offering me this advice, Senor Alvaros?"

"Yes," answered Alvaros, "I have; and it is this. Cuba is in a most
unsettled state at present. She is seething with rebellion, and all
strangers are regarded with the utmost suspicion by the Government.
Nothing would be easier than for you to find yourself involved in one of
the numerous conspiracies which we know to be brewing; and, once
involved, you would find it exceedingly difficult, if not absolutely
impossible, to extricate yourself. Therefore take my advice, and go
forthwith. It is good advice; for I tell you plainly that you are not
wanted here!"

"Thanks!" answered Jack coolly. "I am very much obliged to you, Senor
Alvaros, for the friendly feeling which has prompted you to give me what
I suppose you wish me to understand as a `warning'. But I must tell you
candidly that I believe you are taking a very exaggerated view of the
danger--if danger there be, which I greatly doubt. But, danger or no
danger, I shall still carry out my original plans; and if danger should
come--well, I daresay I shall be quite able to take care of myself."

So that was no good! T