Both boys stopped short, to give the situation consideration.
“Let us stop at the first house we come to. Perhaps we can get help there. If we go all the way back to the hotel it will give the captain an elegant chance to clear out.”
“All right, Beans, the next house it is,” answered Darry.
It was not long after this that they came in sight of a beautiful villa, set in a mass of tropical flowers. There was an avenue of palms leading up to the front veranda and at one side a beautiful fountain of marble.
On the veranda they found a young lady, sitting in a hammock reading a novel. She received them politely and they were glad to learn that she spoke excellent English.
“Papa is not at home at present,” she said. “He left last week to go to Key West, Florida, on business. Is there anything I can do for you?”
A long conversation ensued, and the boys learned that the young lady’s name was Isabel Valois. Her father was a tobacco exporter and owned large plantations both in Cuba and in Porto Rico. She had been educated in a private seminary in Havana, but had spent two years at a young lady’s school in the United States. She listened to their tale with close attention and a face full of concern.
“I think I saw Captain Sudlip drive past yesterday in the volante of which you speak. And late last night I heard somebody drive past at a furious rate of speed. I am willing to help you all I can, but there are at present only three old servants here and one has to look after my mamma, who is an invalid. Perhaps it would be best for you to take our carriage and drive back to town or to some other house for assistance.”
“Thank you, we’ll take the carriage, if you don’t mind. Have you somebody to drive it and show the way?”
“Yes—myself,” and she laughed merrily. “The adventure will just suit me. While old Jose is harnessing up you shall have breakfast.”