"Is it their intention to attack the presidio?"
"They have formed an immense half moon, the two horns of which are nearing you every moment."
"Are they still a good way off?"
"Yes; for they are acting on a preconceived plan, establishing themselves firmly in places capable of defence, and apparently not governed by the sole instinct of pillage; but, as it would seem, obeying the directions of a chief who understands the art of war, and whose influence is felt in all their movements."
"This looks serious," said the governor.
The major shook his head.
"Why have you waited so long before you warned us?" said he.
"This morning, at daybreak, my comrades and I were surrounded by more than two hundred of these demons, who seemed to rise out of the ground. We defended ourselves like lions: one is dead; two of us are wounded, but we managed to escape; and here I am."
"Get back to your post as soon as possible; they shall give you a fresh horse."
"I will be off directly, colonel."