"Approach, Don Leoncio," cried he; "you and your companions."
"We are here, Luco;" and the corporal was immediately surrounded by six persons, armed to the teeth.
It is useless to say that these men were the six persons who an hour before had arrived at the post house simultaneously with the colorados, and whom prudence had induced to remain concealed.
The dancing and shouting in the rancho still went on. The merriment was gradually growing into a gigantic orgy.
Consequently the strangers were sure they should not be disturbed. Moreover, although the moon had now risen, and gave a certain amount of light, the little group, sheltered by the wagons behind which they stood, was in no danger of discovery; while, thanks to its position, nobody could leave the rancho, without being seen directly by those composing it.
We will profit by the moonbeams to depict in a few words these fresh personages; a task made more easy by the fact that they had dismounted, and were holding their horses by the bridles.
We said they were six in number: the first three were evidently peones; but their heavy silver spurs, their tirador, or girdle of embroidered velvet, their beautifully chased weapons, their rich ponchos of fine Bolivian vicuña wool, and, above all, the respectful familiarity which they used towards their masters, indicated that they had earned for themselves a certain degree of consideration.
These peones were, in fact, not only servants, but friends; humble ones, it is true, but devoted ones, tried many a time in scenes of frightful danger.
Of the masters, two were men of about thirty-five, in all the vigour of their age and strength. Their dress, similar in cut to that of their servants, was only distinguished from it by the superior richness and fineness of its texture.
The foremost was a tall and well-built person, with graceful manners and elegant gestures. The outline of his face was proud and decided, and his hardy features expressed a kindness and frankness which, at first sight, won the sympathy and regard of all.