"And that is where your error lies. When Don Pancho Bustamente caused himself to be proclaimed in Valdivia, he had good reasons. This province is remote—isolated; the general hoped to make a war depot of it, and to establish himself solidly there, thanks to his allies. That plan was well conceived, it offered great chances of success. But at the present moment the question is completely changed: the general has no longer anything to rely on in this province. In my opinion we must bar his road to the capital, and force him to accept battle. As to the province of Valdivia, it is not threatened in any way; only, as in such circumstances we cannot employ too much prudence, a civil militia must be instituted in order to defend its hearths. Don Gregorio, you will take the command of the troops destined to act against Arauca. I reserve for myself the command of the army of the Bio Bio. This morning, at daybreak, Señor the Alcalde Mayor, you will cause a bando to be published in all the provinces announcing that voluntary enrolments, at a demi-piastre per day, are opened. You, Colonel Gutierrez, I name governor of the province; your first care must be to organise the civic guard."
"Your Excellency may depend upon me," the colonel replied.
"I have known you for a length of time, colonel, and I know I can leave you to act with full confidence," said Tadeo, with a smile.
The members of the assembly retired, after having again proclaimed their devotion to the good cause. Don Tadeo and Don Gregorio were left alone. Don Tadeo was quite another man. Don Gregorio looked at him with astonishment.
"Brother," said Don Tadeo, "this time we must conquer or die. You will be near me in the hour of battle; you will leave your command when at a few leagues from the city, for it is at my side you must fight."
"Thanks!" said Don Gregorio, "thanks."
"This tyrant, against whom we are going once more to measure ourselves must die."
"He shall die."
"From among the Dark Hearts select ten men, who must be employed specially in pursuit of Bustamente."
"Depend upon me."