The Indian bowed respectfully to the two ladies.
"That is just my idea, señora," said he. "But there are other objections."
"Of what objections do you speak?"
"This path, very little known by the whites, is nevertheless much frequented by Puelche and Pampas Indians, fierce and untamed tribes, into whose hands we should be pretty nearly certain to fall. We should only escape one danger, to fall into another. At all events, it is necessary that these ladies should consent to resume the men's clothing."
"Do not trouble yourself about that," cried the marchioness.
"It would be necessary to march with the greatest prudence, watching, for fear of a surprise."
"And should a surprise happen," quickly interrupted the marchioness, "rather to allow ourselves to be killed, than to become the prey of these men."
"You admirably understand my thoughts, señora," answered the Guarani, respectfully bowing. "I have nothing more to add."
"This project is hazardous, and fraught with difficulties, I am convinced," said the painter; "but, for my part, I see nothing which renders its execution impossible. Let us set out at once, unless," added he, considering, "you think differently from me, Madame la Marquise, and that the dangers which, without doubt, await us on the road appear to you too great; in which case, Madame, I will conform to your wishes."
"As that is the case," nobly replied the marchioness, "a longer discussion becomes useless. Let us set out immediately. Go, then; in a few moments we shall be quite ready to follow you."