"Hush! Don Paulo," answered the general, placing a finger on his lips, "do not speak so loud; our guides can hear you."
"Bah! Do you think so, general? At this distance?"
"I know the sharpness of ear of these fellows, my dear Don Paulo; take my advice; be prudent."
"I will follow your counsel, general—especially as, according to what you tell me, you have had some experience of these Indians."
"Yes," answered the general, with a suppressed sigh; "I had something to do with them on a terrible occasion; and although long years have flown since then, the memory of it is always present to my thoughts. But let us quit that subject, and speak of the occasion which brings us today in these parts. I do not conceal from you, my friend, that, honourable as may be the mission which has been confided to me by the Government, I consider it extremely difficult, and as presenting very few chances of success."
"Is that really your opinion, general?"
"Certainly. I should not wish to speak diplomatically with you."
"Do you fear treachery on the part of these Indians?"
"Who knows? However, as far as I know of the manners of the tribe with which we have especially to do, I feel assured that all will be done honourably."
"Hum! Do you know, general, that our friends would be in a terrible position if the fancy seized these Indians to violate the right of nations? For—pardon me, general, for saying so—it appears to me that if our guides should have the desire to leave us in the lurch, nothing would be more easy for them, and then, what hostages—when they had gone—would answer for the lives of our companions?"