standing by their horses, ready for the signal to mount. They were
picked men, mostly tall and stalwart, and armed with lances and
carbines; evidently from their costume irregular cavalry, and looking as
if they could render as efficient service in that climate and region as
any body of troops, albeit clothed in more uniform fashion.

"Ah, my young friend, I am glad to have the opportunity of saying
farewell," he exclaimed, putting out his hand; "you will not forget your
promise of last night. And let me advise you to prepare yourself for
the service you may render our beloved country. Take every opportunity
of perfecting yourself in horsemanship, and practise the use of the
lance and carbine I hope ere long to return this way, and to enrol you
among my troops, when you will, I doubt not, with the practice we will
be able to give you, become thoroughly expert in the use of your
weapons. Should Heaven preserve your life, you must look forward to
becoming a leader; and consider well how you will have to act in all the
circumstances in which you may be placed,--whether meeting the foes of
our country on the plains or amid the mountains; either pursuing, or
retreating before superior numbers; endeavouring to effect a surprise,
or guarding against one. He proves the most successful leader who has
reflected well--during the quiet hours of the bivouac under the starry
vault of heaven, or in his silent chamber--how he will conduct himself
in the varied chances of warfare. Brute courage is useful in the heady
fight, but the possessor of that only can never be a fitting leader."

I was thanking the general for his advice, when Donna Paola appeared,
led forth by Colonel Acosta, the young officer I have before mentioned,
who had been seated next to her at supper. He pressed her hand as he
assisted her to mount, and by the look she gave him I saw that their
affection was mutual. I trusted, for both their sakes, that she would
be protected in the dangerous undertaking in which she was engaged. The
general springing into his saddle, the rest of the party followed his
example. Waving his adieux, he led the way along the side of the
mountain; while Padre Pacheco, stretching out his hands, blessed him and
his followers, and commended them to the care of Heaven.

My uncle and Tim had also come out prepared for a start. The hospitable
padre urged us to remain longer, but we were naturally anxious to reach
home. On my uncle ma