"I have regretted, general, that we did not return and do that."
"You were hardly prepared to do it, as I understand your condition."
"True, General Castro. We were glad to escape with our lives, and we have been kept escaping ever since."
"You have proved lively enough in the race. You spoke of that young De Caprian. What do you know of him?"
"I believe he is as true a patriot as you have in Venezuela," replied Ronie, boldly.
"I would not let anybody else say that," declared Castro, frankly. "You think I have misjudged the man, Sergeant Rand?"
"Perhaps I ought not to say it, but he appeared honest to us."
"You would like to see him set free?"
"Not if he is an enemy to your government, General Castro."
"I understand. When you go to San Carlos to get your man I will send by you the papers which shall give him his freedom. I will try him a while, and if he proves faithful his mother shall be given her liberty. I have given orders to see that she is given all the privileges possible under the circumstances. I have been very much interested in your intelligence, Sergeant Rand, and I trust I shall meet your friends when you come again."