"Be it so."
They proceeded towards the toldo of Don Pablo; but about halfway the Frenchman stopped, slapping his forehead.
"What's wrong with you?" asked Don Santiago.
"I am thinking there is no occasion for us to go together; you will arrange this matter much better than me. While you go there I will prepare everything for my departure, so that I shall be able to set out immediately after your return."
The young man spoke with such decided good nature—his countenance was so expressive of frankness and carelessness—that Don Santiago, despite all his cleverness, was deceived.
"Very good," said he; "while I see my brother, make your preparations—there is no necessity for you to come."
"However, if you prefer it, perhaps it would be better for me to accompany you?"
"No, no, it is needless; in an hour I shall be at your toldo with the safe conduct."
"I thank you in advance."
The two men shook hands and separated, Don Santiago proceeding towards his brother's house, which was also his own, and the Frenchman apparently going in the direction of the habitation which had been assigned to him; but as soon as the partisan had turned the corner of the nearest street, Emile, having assured himself that no new spy was dogging his steps, immediately changed his route, and took that towards the dwelling of the two ladies.