"Excuse me, monsieur," said Hebrard, "we are playing a frank and open game, I do not desire in any way to conceal the dangers that may await you. I am only speaking in a general kind of way, certain that whatever obstacles occur you will be right."
All this was verbiage; M. Hebrard was evidently only trying some method of putting his real thoughts into words.
The outlaw, who expected what was coming, smiled.
"Unfortunately," said the diplomatist, who did not know what to say, "the real danger is not on the other side."
The outlaw started up.
"You may well be surprised; the danger is here."
"What do you mean?" cried the outlaw.
"I will explain myself, if you will allow me. Of course," said M. Hebrard, "the Spaniards are no more fools than we are."
"I was always of that opinion."
"They have started a countermine!"