"But when this moment has come—?"
Tyro did not answer, occupied in preparing for his master's breakfast. Apparently absorbed by this grave occupation, he feigned not to hear these too significant words.
"Now it is ready, my friend," said he; "eat and drink, you must require refreshment. We never know what the future reserves for us, and it is well to be prepared for anything that may happen."
The painter looked at him a moment attentively.
"Come," said he, sitting on a stool before the table, "you are plotting something?"
The Guaraní burst out a laugh maliciously.
"Ah!" said he, after a pause, "You know, my friend, that the engagement of our two companions terminated yesterday."
"What companions, and what engagements?" answered the young man, with his mouth full.
"Why, that of Mataseis and his worthy acolyte Sacatripas."
"Good, but what have I to do with that? These fellows have been paid in advance; I do not owe them anything."