Page:The Road to Monterey (1925).pdf/287

 a stand against the Americans. They swear they never will yield to the Americans, and Roberto, he has made a vow to Our Señora to burn Don Gabriel in chains."

"And for me? what has he sworn for me?"

"There is a paper speaking of reward for all of you posted in the plaza, another nailed to the church door. This is given above the general's hand. The lady and you are charged with treason, Don Gabriel as a spy."

"There is only one answer to Roberto's intention, then."

"I was told by soldiers who heard, that Don Abrahan pleaded with, commanded, his son to leave the lady out of this paper, but in vain. Roberto swears she shall die before the soldiers' guns. He is furious that two men should come between him and the vengeance of his jealous heart, by defeating his twenty-seven valiant soldiers."

"And a man can understand the state of his feelings," Felipe said.

"Nine of the soldiers will fight no more, Don Felipe. It was a fight of giants, all in the pueblo say."

"Nine thieves and murderers less in the world! So the republic pays for injustice and oppression, Pablo. I struck a blow for myself also, when I struck for Helena Sprague."

"They say the cannon took five of them, wounding others. The soldiers are no less furious than