Tranquil gave an ironical smile.
"I fancy you are strangely mistaken, Señor," he said with his old calmness.
"Ah!"
"Listen to me for a few moments. I will not encroach on your time, which no doubt is valuable. I am only a poor hunter, Señor, ignorant of worldly affairs, and the subtleties of civilization. Still, I believe that the man who adopts a child in the cradle, takes care of it, and brings it up with a tenderness and love that have never failed, is more truly its father than the man who, after giving it life, abandons it and pays no farther attention to it; such is my idea of paternity, Señor. Perhaps I am mistaken; but, in my idea, as I have no lessons or orders to receive from you, I shall act as I think proper, whether you like it or no. Come, my dear Carmela, we have remained here too long as it is."
The maiden bounded to her feet, and placed herself by the hunter's side.
"One moment, Señor," the Scalper exclaimed; "you have learned how to enter this house, but you do not yet know how to leave it."
And seizing two pistols lying on a table, he pointed them at the hunter, while shouting—"Help! help!"
Tranquil quietly raised his rifle to his shoulder.
"I should be delighted at your showing me the road," he said peaceably.
A dozen slaves and Mexican soldiers rushed tumultuously into the room.