"You have the great merit, Señor Duval, of candour. I admire it as a virtue, but it can be carried too far. I do not like being called knave or fool, as I deserve neither name."
"Is that so? Good! I say you are both! However, I am open to argument; so let me hear your side of the question."
Don Hypolito laughed quietly, and eyed his rival with increased respect.
"I wish you were on my side, Don Juan. A man such as you would be invaluable to me."
"I thank you for your good opinion, Señor; but I am not on your side, neither am I likely to be. I support the established Government of Cholacaca."
"You are a—but no," said Xuarez, checking himself with a sardonic smile; "we have no time to discuss politics. All are against me now, but when I am seated in the presidential chair, the world will be in my favour. To-day, Señor, I am an adventurer. To-morrow I will be a conqueror. Success is everything in the eyes of the world. However, we need not talk of these things which do not interest you. I notice you have not yet asked after your friends."
"Why should I, Don Hypolito?" replied Jack, determined to show no signs of anxiety in the presence of this man. "I know that my friends are safe, and are at present on their way to Tlatonac."
"It is true, but how did you guess this much, Don Juan?"
"From what I know of your character."
"Pardon me, Señor, no one knows my character," said Xuarez, quietly.