"Good heavens!" she murmured, clasping her hands in grief.
"Madam," Whistler again continued, "I understand that the reasons which urged you to undertake such a journey must be of the utmost importance; let me, therefore, go on ahead to the camp, and make all the preparations for your reception."
"But Stronghand, señor?"
"Warned through me, madam, he will be back by daybreak."
"You promise me that, señor."
"On my honour."
"Go, then, and may Heaven requite you for the goodwill and courtesy you show me."
Whistler bowed respectfully to the young lady, took his rifle under his arm, and soon disappeared in the forest.
"We can now go on without fear," said Mariano; "I know Whistler to be an honest, worthy fellow, and he will do what he has promised."
"Heaven grant I may see the man whom I have come so far to meet."