"To none in particular; they are guerilleros" (irregular troops).
"Hm!" said the colonel, showing a little disappointment; "I should have preferred other troops. But never mind; if you like, we will go out to meet them."
"I am at your orders, colonel."
"Shall I go with you?" asked the major.
"Nothing could be better," said Don Torribio hastily.
The colonel hesitated a moment.
"No," said he, at last; "remain here. One cannot tell what may happen, and somebody must be here to act for me in my absence. Come, Don Torribio."
With a sigh of satisfaction, the major threw himself back again on the sofa from which he had risen.
The two men went out. Just as they were mounting, they encountered a horseman, who came up at full speed.
"Estevan Diaz!" muttered Don Torribio to himself; "Please Heaven he has not recognized me."