"It seems that the troops will not arrive too soon."
"It was only just in time, canario," the governor replied imprudently. "Where are your men?"
"They will arrive within an hour."
"What are they?"
"Gauchos."
"Hum!" said the colonel, "I should have preferred any other troops. However, it is of no consequence. With your permission, I will go to meet them."
"I am at your orders."
"Shall I go with you?" the major asked.
"That would be better still," Torribio observed quickly.
"No, major," said Don Antonio. "Stay here, for who knows what may happen during my absence. Come, Don Torribio."