“Two years ago, when there was war between Atlamalco and Zalapata,” explained the native officer, “we captured a party of raiders in the mountains and shot them all excepting one. He was Martella, who, being wounded, was saved at my prayer. Since then we have been friends.”
“He ought to be your life friend if there is any such thing as gratitude in his nature.”
“I have been to see him and he comes to see me. Martella is one who speaks the truth.”
“I was not aware that—barring yourself—there was any man in this part of the world who had that virtue.”
“What did President Yozarro tell you?” asked the Captain so bluntly that the American resented it.
“You have no warrant for asking that question.”
“Pardon me, Major; I do not ask to know what he said about the claim of President Bambos, for I already know that.”
“You do! Well, what was it?”
“He said he would pay the amount of the claim and asked you to tell President Bambos he is very sorry.”
“You are right; that is what he said.”