Page:Under three flags; a story of mystery (IA underthreeflagss00tayliala).pdf/243

 "Within a fortnight Gen. Masso will hurl 10,000 men upon it. The troops back in these mountains will form part of an army against which 20,000 Spanish will not avail. Unless you insist upon reporting the siege for your paper amid the bursting of shells and the roar of artillery, keep away from Santiago—at Santos, for instance. The Spanish squadron is already on its way to Santiago, and when the city falls into the hands of the patriots the battleships will open fire."

"Then I believe I will return to Santiago at once—or after our night's work is finished. Shall we reach the edge of Jibana before nightfall?"

"Probably not, but in season for the work in hand. It will be a night that Capt. Alvarez will long remember if memory lasts beyond this world."

"By Jove! That will never do," exclaims Ashley. Navarro looks at him inquiringly.

"Alvarez must not be injured," declares Jack. "I have particular reasons for keeping Alvarez alive for some time to come."

"Rather awkward," laughs Navarro. "I don't see but that you will have to overlook the job to-night, and sort out your friend, for I expect it will be necessary to kill one or two of the gang."

Ashley reflects a moment. "You should be able to identify the leader," he says, and he adds to himself: "As for Barker, I shall have to prevent his taking part in the affair. It's a ticklish job all round."

"Well, your wishes shall be respected," says Navarro. "Capt. Alvarez shall live. He is fortunate in having so influential a friend at court."

"Some of the most worthless of men are more valuable alive than dead. I have no friendship for Alvarez, but his demise just at present would complicate certain matters in which I have a large interest."

The moon is creeping up over a crest of the range, when, at a signal from the guide, Navarro calls a halt. After a whispered consultation, he tells Ashley that they are some little distance below the Jibana hotel and railway station.