"It is half past ten," he said; "the camp will not be completely evacuated till midnight. We will set out at two o'clock, with the few men I have selected."
"In that case, with your permission, I will retire and sleep till the hour for departure."
"Do so, my friend; but mind and be here again at half past one."
"That is settled, General."
The two gentlemen shook hands affectionately, and Don Aníbal walked towards the door of the jacal. Just as he was going, the noise of several horses could be heard.
"¿Quién vive?" the sentry challenged.
"Méjico e independencia," a voice replied, which Don Aníbal fancied he recognized.
"¿Qué gente?" the soldier continued.
"El Coronel Don Aurelio Gutiérrez."
"Let him come in, let him come in," the general shouted.