"Señor Felipe," said Maraquando, removing his sombrero with suave courtesy; "in the name of the Republic of Cholacaca, I have to thank you for the offer of your ship, and to inform you that the Junta gladly accepts your aid with a thousand thousand thanks."
"The pleasure is mine, Señor," said Philip, courteously.
"The Junta, Don Felipe," resumed Don Miguel gravely, "desire to know if you can leave Tlatonac by noon."
"Certainly, Señor. By noon The Bohemian will steam northward. Are you to be of the party, Señor?"
"I regret to say I am not, Señor. His Excellency is pleased to consider that I will be more useful by his side. The message to Xuarez will be delivered by Don Alonzo Cebrian, the Intendante of the province of Xicotencatl. He will be accompanied by Colonel Garibay, my son Don Rafael, Captain Velez and about twenty soldiers. Can your vessel hold such a company, Señor."
"Oh yes. If they don't mind a little discomfort, Don Miguel. The Bohemian is rather small for such a number."
"Fortunately, the voyage will not take long," added Jack, thankfully. "With myself and you, Philip, the number tots up to twenty-six passengers."
"Twenty-seven, Jack," interposed Tim, quickly "I'm not going to miss the fun."
"But your business, Tim," remonstrated Philip, in alarm, afraid lest Fletcher's fighting propensities should cause trouble at Acauhtzin.
"Well, isn't this my business, sir? Interview with the rebel leader! It's a fine article I'll get out of that same, Philip."