The half-caste did not answer; he foamed with fury, and writhed like a serpent on the ground.
"Keep still a moment, Malco," said the captain, peaceably; "you are really very troublesome."
And so saying, he bound him firmly with his lasso, notwithstanding his prodigious efforts to escape.
"There, it is finished," cried Diogo, when the last knot was tied. "Now I have only to gag you."
"To gag me!" cried the half-caste; "To gag me! Why?"
"Why, my friend, I find you very innocent; permit me to tell you that if I gag you, it is probably to prevent you from crying out."
There was a moment of silence. Malco reflected, and Diogo made a gag with the care and attention that he brought to bear on all he did.
"How long do you think it will take to put yourself in safety?" asked the half-caste.
"Why do you ask that question?" answered the captain, kneeling down before him.
"What does it matter to you? Answer me frankly."