"I do not ask anything better, Captain; you told me, I think, that you intended to quit the camp?"
"We have not an instant to lose to try and gain information; we have to do, do not forget, with Indian bravos—the cleverest and bravest of the desert. They are tough adversaries."
"I begin to believe it."
"While I am absent, remain in the camp, keep a good watch, and make yourself personally certain that the sentinels do not sleep at their post."
"Depend upon me for that."
"I forgot one very important thing, my lord; if you are attacked by the Indians during my absence, and hard put to it, attach a red faja to the highest branch of the watch tree; this faja I shall see in whatever place I may be."
"That shall be done; have you any other recommendations?"
"None, your Excellency; it only remains for me now to take leave. Remember not to go out."
"I shall not stir a step; that's agreed on. You will find me again, I hope, in as good a situation as that in which you leave me."
"I hope so, my lord. Au revoir!"