Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 2.djvu/163

Rh together, as to the means for accomplishing their nefarious purpose.

"I tell you," exclaimed Don Manuel to his companion, "that Lope placed the diamond in his bosom, and it will be necessary first——"

"Necessary to find it out, Dios! Leave that to me," said Cayan, interrupting him. "I'll do the business without stumbling over it, I warrant; but what is your share of it to be, my zapilote (buzzard)?"

"Ave Maria!" answered the Don. "My part will be to watch him, and give you the signal at the fitting opportunity: you understand, danta (wild boar)."

"Quick then, Don Manuel," said the other, "or I wait not for you. San Miguel! already I scent his blood, and I long to see it! Ave Señora, I think I shall do without you!"

"I will be quick; and you—you must do it effectually!"

"Effectually? De mi! By tomorrow night——"

"Yes! By tomorrow night the diamond is our own!"

On the evening of the following day Lope Cluca was accosted by the wily Don Miguel at the foot of the cliff, and detained in