"I have, your Excellency."
"You will execute it at once. This is Senor Ferdinand Carbonnell, of whom you know; hold him in custody; the warrant will be made out."
"I am a British subject, and a member of the British Embassy here in Madrid. I shall resist arrest, and hold you responsible for any consequences."
The official heard this with some dismay, and looked at the Minister for an explanation.
"Do your duty, Senor Rubio. You have my orders."
"You must come with me, please," said the man, turning to me.
"I am armed," was my reply.
"Get the help you need," cried Quesada, sternly. "Do you hear?" he added, angrily, for the man paused; but at this he went to the door and opened it to call assistance. It was clear he had little stomach for the task; and he appeared no less relieved than surprised when, instead of his police assistants, Dolores Quesada entered. She was looking pale and very agitated, but said to her brother quite firmly—
"I heard that Senor Rubio had been sent for; and before anything more is done I have something to say to you. Dismiss him for a moment."
To my surprise, her brother sent him away.