"Fifty miles, or thereabouts, and now that this war is on the tapis, I expect the works will have to be abandoned. Failing this railway, the only way to get to the second capital is by water. So, you see, communication between the two towns is not so perfect as it might be."
"And thus offers good opportunities to Don Hypolito to make things nasty for the Government."
"There's no doubt of that, provided Don Hypolito can secure the allegiance of the navy."
"The navy!" said Peter, in surprise. "You don't mean to say, Jack, that Cholacaca has a navy?"
"A very good one, as South American navies go. They have three war-ships, named respectively, The Columbus, The Cortes, and The Pizarro, all first-class vessels. The Government has also sent to England for two torpedo-boats, which are expected out shortly."
"Then, if Don Hypolito commands the navy, he can do what he likes."
"Not exactly. Tlatonac is well fortified, and the war-ships would have to keep well out of the range of the guns."
"Any army worth mentioning?"
"Yes; a capital army for this part of the world. Mostly Mestizos, you know; and, if needs be, I dare say the Government can secure the forest Indians as their allies. Fools if they do. No wise man trusts an Indian. That holds good of governments also, I take it."
"Judging from your opal story," said Philip, reflectively, "it seems to me that this Indian business depends on the stone."