Page:Infernal secret, or, The invulnerable Spaniard.pdf/14

14 unarmed, I command thee to assail me." Spalatro recollected his oath and the bloody evidence he had given to Montilla; but he had long dealt in blood, and was resolved to make a desperate effort to release himself—he drew his sword and rushed upon the stranger, thrusting and striking with all his force, the sword frequently entered Montilla’s body, but no blood issued, no injury was sustained. " Now call forth thy comrades, thou hast been their leader long, and thou shalt now command them on a bold and desperate expedition ; call them forth, I say; for' I am aware this is the spot which they inhabit." Spalatro obeyed at once—the rocks ng with the shrill whistle, and a numerous horde of ruffians, speedily issued forth, welcoming the return of the Captain Spalatro, whom they imagined was that morning broke by the wheel. They examined the figure of Montilla, who exclaimed, " Behold I have restored your leader to you. " Now mark again," said the mysterious one, as he scattered ducats before him, " obey and follow whither I shall lead, and I solemnly pledge myself to grant each man his request—Behold," continued he, opening his vest, " I am invulnerable; discharge your pistols and carbines at me, and if a wound or scratch appear, distrust my promises." Montilla was taken at his word ; guns, carbines, pistols, and arquebusses were discharged at him; but the balls fell from his person on the ground. They all raised their caps and hats in token of obedience, "Not so." said he, "attend to your gallant leader, brave Spalatro here." Saying this, Montilla whispered his commands to Spalatro, who promised implicit and unequivocal obedience. “ Why yes, I do believe thou see’st how very needless all contention with my power must prove to thee." Montilla then bent his steps hastily towards Madrid and hoped success, even should Isidora refuse to gratitude