“I must not answer that question. It is quite sufficient that he treats her as his wife.”
“Ah! indeed. But about this treasure. You say that no one knows where it is buried but the patron, as you call him?”
“No one.”
“Will you express my regret at what has passed, and tell him I will have the pleasure of seeing him to-morrow.”
“Certainly, signor,” replied Krantz, rising from his chair, and wishing the commandant a good evening as he retired.
“I was after one thing, and have found another. A spectre that must have been; but he must be a bold spectre that can frighten me from doubloons; besides, I can call in the priests. Now, let me see: if I let this man go on condition that he reveals the site of the treasure to the authorities—that is to me—why then I need not lose the fair young woman. If I forward this paper to her, why then I gain her; but I must first get rid of him. Of the two, I prefer—yes!—the gold! But I cannot obtain both. At all events, let me obtain the money first. I want it more than the Church does; but if I do get the money, these two men can expose me. I must get rid of them—silence them for ever—and then perhaps I may obtain the fair Amine also. Yes, their death will be necessary to secure either; that is, after I have the first in my possession. Let me think.”
For some minutes the commandant walked up and down the room, reflecting upon the best method of proceeding. “He says it was a spectre, and he has told a plausible story,” thought he; “but I don’t know—I have my doubts; they may be tricking me. Well, be it so. If the money is there, I will have it; and if not, I will have my revenge. Yes! I have it: not only must they be removed, but by degrees all the others too who assist in bringing the treasure away. Then—but—who’s there, Pedro?”
“Yes, signor.”
“How long have you been here?”
“But as you spoke, signor; I thought I heard you call.”