"But how did you succeed in escaping from the hacienda after the arrival of the troops, Quoniam?" Tranquil continued.
"I saw that, if I amused myself by admiring the uniform and fine appearance of the troops, when order was slightly restored, the gates would be closed, and my hopes of escaping foiled for a long time. Without saying a word, I dismounted, and leading my horse by the bridle, glided through the mob so cleverly, that I at length found myself outside. I then leaped into the saddle, and pushed straight ahead. I was only just in time, I declare, for five minutes later all the gates were closed."
"And then you came straight here?"
Quoniam smiled cunningly. "Do you think so?" he said.
"Hang it! I suppose so, at least."
"Well, you are mistaken, gossip; I did not return straight here: and yet it was not my inclination that prevented it, I assure you."
"What happened, then?"
"You will see, for I have not finished yet."
"Go on, then; but be brief, if that is possible."
"Every man does what he can, and you have no right to ask more of him."