The fugitives had reached the river's bank, where a boat was waiting for them.
"We shall separate here, señor," the stranger said to Don Sylvio, as he removed his mask.
"Pedrito!" he exclaimed.
"Myself!" the bombero answered. "This boat will take you to the Estancia of San Julian. Start without delay, and," he added, as he stooped down to Don Sylvio's ear, and handed him a folded paper, "read this, and, perhaps, you will soon be able to come to our assistance. Good-bye, señor."
"One word, Pedrito. Who is the man that held me prisoner?"
"Don Torribio Carvajal."
"Thank you."
"Or, if you prefer it, Nocobotha, the great Chief of the Aucas."
"Which of the two?"
"They are the same."