This revelation came like a thunderbolt on those to whom he spoke. Don Zeno especially, and Don Eusebio appeared extraordinarily agitated.
"Pincheyras!" repeated they.
"Yes, and we shall soon know what they want. I have placed two men in ambush on their route, with orders to watch their movements."
"Well," cried the governor, rising quickly, "we cannot take too many precautions with such demons. Excuse me, Monsieur le Duc, for quitting you so abruptly; but the news brought by this brave officer is of the utmost importance. I must, without delay, prepare for the safety of the town. Tomorrow, if you will permit me, we will resume this interview."
"When you please, gentlemen," answered the diplomatist; "you know that I am at your orders."
"A thousands thanks—tomorrow then. Are you coming with me, Señor Cabral?"
"Certainly, I am with you," answered the latter. "We cannot employ too much prudence in so grave a position."
The two generals immediately took leave of the duke, and went out, followed by the captain.
When the door was closed, and the old diplomatist found himself alone, he rubbed his hands, and darting an ironical look towards the place where his visitors had disappeared—
"I think," murmured he, with a smile of raillery, "there is already a pretty trap prepared! Eh! Eh! My dear friend Emile will do well if he escape. I like him too much not to make his fortune, in spite of himself. I at least owe him that for the service he has rendered me."