The sound of a key being tried in the church door cuts short his words.
“It is Captain Huerta,” whispers Juanita, and she trembles like a leaf in Jack’s arms.
“Quick, father!” commands the latter. “You reconnoiter and see if the way through the garden and your house is clear.” The venerable padre hurries away and Ashley improves the opportunity to shower kisses upon Juanita’s cold and unresponsive lips.
“What a man you are!” she murmurs. “I believe you would make love on your way to execution.”
“I should if the opportunity was offered,” laughs Jack, softly. “What could more brightly illumine the last moments of a condemned man than to hold in his arms, if but for a few minutes, so much loveliness?”
At that moment Father Hilario reappears. “There is no hope,” he reports. “Suspecting all was not right, Captain Huerta has surrounded the church and grounds with his men.”
“Then fasten that door,” says Jack. “An attack at one end is all I care to look after.”
The bolt is shot into place, and with the click comes the sound of muttered oaths from without, followed by a savage kick at the barricaded portal.
“Ho, there, within!” demands an impatient voice.
At the sound of the hateful tones Juanita shudders and throws her arms about Ashley’s neck. “Save me from that man!” she whispers.