"We are fifty leagues from the nearest town, a few leagues only from the Indian enemies, who only await an opportunity to attack us."
"That is true," murmured the marquis pensively,
"Good! You understand me, your Excellency; now, suppose I am a traitor?"
"I have not said so."
"Well! I admit nothing would be easier for me than to abandon you to yourself where we now are—to leave with my soldiers, and believe me, your Excellency, you would be as irremediably lost as if I gave you over tomorrow, or any other day, to the Indians."
The marquis turned pale, and his head fell on his breast with a troubled air. The logic of the captain's reason struck him to the heart, showing him his own powerlessness, and the great devotion of the man whom he accused, and who was ready so nobly to sacrifice his life to serve him.
"Pardon me my unjust suspicions, Don Diogo," he said; "my doubts are dissipated forever. I have faith in you; act in your own way, without even consulting me, if you think necessary. I swear to you, on my word of honour as a gentleman, that I will not embarrass you in anything; and that, under all circumstances, I will be the first to set the example of obedience."
"I regret that I only have a life to sacrifice for you, my lord," answered the captain.
"Do not speak any more of that, my friend, but act for the best."
"I will try to do so, my lord. First, will you inform me in what direction you intend to proceed?"