"Well," the count asked him eagerly, "what news? Were you mistaken?"
The adventurer burst into a mocking laugh.
"I mistaken! Hang me if that is possible," he said.
"Then, we are pursued by Indians?"
"Pursued and preceded; we are literally between two fires."
The Spaniards felt a shudder run over them on hearing this.
"Are they numerous?" the count continued.
"No, there are only a few warriors; the weakness of our party is known, and a large display of strength was considered useless."
"In that case, then, you think we have a chance?"
"Men have one always, when they do not give in," the Canadian replied sententiously.