The girl held out her hand. Bob took it as in a daze.
"Pinch me," he said, in an aside to Jack.
All heard the remark, and laughed at Bob's mystification.
"Come," said Mr. Hampton, and once more moved toward the door. Once more, however, his steps were arrested by a noise outside. This time they heard the shouts of many men approaching the house and crying "Viva, Calomares."
"Too late," groaned Mr. Hampton. "They have driven off the attack, and are returning."
Rafaela uttered an exclamation.
"Oh, I must go to my room before papa discovers me here," she cried. She darted for the door, but paused to give them parting cheer. "Do not give up hope," she said. "They will drink a great deal, and then all will sleep very soundly. You may escape late tonight. Good-bye," and turning, she ran lightly down the steps.
Jack's eyes followed. At the turning, she paused, looked back, and waved to him, then disappeared.
"Now what will we do?" said Jack.
"You boys hide behind the bed," said Mr. Hampton. "I'll close the door, but I won't lock it this time, for on second thought I believe if it were locked and Calomares came up to see me—as he frequently does before retiring—it would make him suspicious. I shall leave it unlocked, and then he will believe he left it so himself in his haste."