'Because Giacomo and Pedro, who went fishing last night, have not returned, and there are no tidings of them.'
'That is strange! But how is this connected with the vessel?'
'That I will explain as soon as I have had an examination of her,' replied Francisco, who had taken up the telescope, and was drawing out the tube. Francisco fixed the glass against the sill of the window, and examined the vessel some time in silence.
'Yes! by the living God, it is the Avenger, and no other!' exclaimed he, as he removed the telescope from his eye.
'Eh?' cried Don Cumanos.
Francisco fixed the glass against the sill of the window, and examined the vessel some time in silence.
'It is the pirate vessel—the Avenger—I'll forfeit my life upon it! Don Cumanos, you must be prepared. I know that they have long talked of a visit to this quarter, and anticipate great booty, and they have those on board who know the coast well. The disappearance of your two men convinces me that they sent up their boats last night to reconnoitre, and have captured them. Torture will extract the information which the pirates require, and I have little doubt but that the attack will be made when they learn how much bullion there is at present on your premises.'
'You may be right,' replied Don Cumanos thoughtfully; 'that is, provided you are sure that it is the pirate vessel.'