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 the post and the lash. Threats are not idle on the tongue of that young oppressor. If I cannot go with you, then I must go alone."

Don Felipe's face was as earnest as the face of man could be. He spoke in the grave and resolute tone of one whose burden had grown too great, whose endurance was at an end. He rode on, saluting with outflung hand.

"Don Felipe, we will go together," Gabriel said, riding hard to overtake him. "But the risk is greater with me than it would be without me. The soldiers are coming"

"I saw them," said Felipe calmly.

"They will soon be on my trail."

"I know a way, Don Gabriel, that no soldier can follow," Felipe said in quiet confidence. "If I betray you, save a ball for me between the eyes."

"There will not be a doubt of it, Don Felipe," Henderson assured him, as he galloped at his side.