Page:Gaston Leroux--The bride of the sun.djvu/193

Rh found Natividad waiting anxiously. In the street, they met Dick, who had come to look for them. He was pale and agitated, and it was evident that some extraordinary event had made him leave his post.

"What has happened? " asked the Marquis.

"Back to the inn, quick! We must decide on some course of action. What did Garcia say?"

"That he could do nothing for us. But he gave me money and a piece of advice that may save them. But what made you leave your post? Are they still there?"

"Yes. Only one person has left the house. Huascar. I followed, determined to corner him, and kill him like a dog, if need be. He went straight to our inn, and asked for you. They told him you had gone out, but were returning. He then said he would wait, so I came to fetch you."

"They are saved!" exclaimed Don Christobal. "Why else should Huascar come to see me?"

"I don't like the man, and don't believe in him. You must not forget that you have to do with a fanatic, and one who owes Maria-Teresa a grudge."

"My wife found him starving in the street, and gave him shelter. I cannot believe he has altogether forgotten that.… I have always thought he was in the whole business against his