"I do not understand you," said Don Tadeo.
Don Gregorio did not appear to notice him, but, making a sign to the two Frenchmen and Don Tadeo to follow him, he retired a few paces.
"You have asked me why I sought you, Don Tadeo;" he continued, "Yesterday I set out, sent to you by our brothers, the patriots, and by all the Dark Hearts of Chili, of whom you are the leader and the king, with the mission to repeat this to you when I met with you: 'King of Darkness, our country is in danger! One man alone can save it; that man is yourself."
Don Tadeo made no reply; he seemed a prey to a poignant grief.
"Listen to the news I bring you," Don Gregorio continued. "General Bustamente has escaped!"
"I knew he had," he murmured faintly.
"Yes; but what you do not know is, that the scoundrel has succeeded in winning the Araucanos to his interests."
"This news——" objected Don Tadeo.
"Is certain," Don Gregorio interrupted warmly; "a faithful spy has brought it to us."
"You know, my friend, I resigned all power into your hands."