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Rh knowest it not; no distance will weaken our control; and no power will shield thee from our resentment. On the other hand if thou dost serve us faithfully and well, we will defend and support thee, and thou wilt have a due share of our booty with the rest. In the name of our Blessed Lady of Guadaloupe, dost thou accept of these proposals?"

"In the name of the Holy and Blessed Virgin, I do accept them!" was the instant reply of the new-made contrabandista.

Suffice it to say, that the quondam customhouse officer, Martin Valio, proved a most valuable addition to the band; and is, at this moment, the prosperous capitaz of the troop, in place of his highness Antonio Pulf—who lately fell a victim to his old wounds, and a large importation of new aguardiente.