"Good," the warrior replied, taking the weapon.
"That weapon is poisoned—: the slightest scratch will inflict certain death."
"Oh—oh!" said the Indian, "that is indeed a good weapon! When shall I set out?"
"A horse shall be given to my brother, to whom I have only one more word to say: let him take care not to get killed; I would have him return to me."
"I shall come back again," said the Indian, confidently. "Farewell."
Don Tadeo and Don Gregorio left the cabildo. The orders of the King of Darkness had been executed with the greatest punctuality and promptitude. Two bodies of troops were drawn up; one, of nine hundred men, was charged with the attack on Arauca, the other, of nearly two thousand, under the immediate orders of Don Tadeo himself.
In addition to a numerous troop of cavalry, the Chilians took with them ten pieces of mountain artillery. The troops filed off at a quick step before the inhabitants, who saluted them with hearty shouts.
When they were about to separate, Don Tadeo took his friend aside.
"This evening, when you have established your camp for the night, Don Gregorio," he said, "you will give up the command to your lieutenant and rejoin me."
"That is understood; I thank you for the favour you confer upon me."