"We must first reach the borders of a little lake which lies in the neighbourhood of the Rio Bermejo."
"Oh, oh," answered the Indian, "the journey is long; we have to traverse, before arriving there, all the country of the Guaycurus and the Payagoas; then we shall pass the Rio Pilcomayo, to enter the Islano de Manso. It is a rough way, your Excellency."
"I have always thought that Malco Diaz made us take a wrong direction."
"You are wrong, my lord. The manner in which he has abandoned you shows that he had the greatest interest in bringing you as quickly as possible to the Indian territory."
"That is true."
"Now, my lord, if you will please to mount horse, we will set out as soon as you like."
"Immediately," answered the marquis.
The young man went towards the palanquin, in which doña Laura was shut up, whilst the captain rejoined his soldiers, and prepared all for the departure.
The marquis reined his horse to the right side of the palanquin, and slightly leaning from his saddle—
"Doña Laura," said he, "do you hear me?"