"Exactly what I think; but as I am now no longer the enemy, but the friend of Don Fernando, and in that capacity take the greatest interest in knowing all that may happen to him, so that I might fly to his aid if necessary—"
"Or avenge him, if ill luck should have it that he should be killed," said Carlocho, interrupting him.
"I should like," continued Don Torribio, "to be constantly apprised of whatever may happen to him."
"Oh, holy friendship!" exclaimed Tonillo, raising his eyes to heaven with a sanctified air; "Thou art not a mere idle word!"
"Caballeros, you could not be in a better position for giving me information; and as all trouble should have its reward, you shall receive at least one hundred ounces to share amongst you, or two hundred, according to the news you may bring me. You understand?"
"Perfectly, señor," replied Carlocho, with imperturbable composure, in the name of his deeply touched companions; "the office you confide to us is most honourable. You may rely on our carrying out your views to your utmost satisfaction."
"Well, that is settled, señores; I rely upon the accuracy of your information, for you must perceive the ridiculous position in which a false report would place me in the eyes of Don Fernando's numerous friends, whom I should be loth to disturb without good cause."
"Trust entirely to us, señor; we will confirm our information by irrefragable proof."
"Good! I see we understand each other; it is useless to pursue the matter further."
"Perfectly useless, señor; we are men of quick comprehension."