"I mean, I fancied I understood—"
"It is the same thing; go on."
"I fancied I understood, I say, that they were speaking of the conducta."
"And very naturally of Captain Melendez, eh?"
"I am certain that they mentioned his name."
"That is it. Then you supposed that the Jaguar intended to attack the conducta, and possibly kill the Captain, eh?"
"I do not say that," the maiden stammered, in extreme embarrassment.
"No, but you fear it."
"Good Heavens, father!" she went on, in a tone of vexation, "Is it not natural that I should take an interest in a brave officer who—"
"It is most natural, my child, and I do not blame you; even more, I fancy that your suppositions are very near the truth."