"All the better. But you must require rest. Who are the persons accompanying you?"
"One is a confidential peon of mine; the other a prisoner whom Señor Don Olivero took," the count answered.
"Yes, yes," said the hunter; "we will talk about that scamp presently."
"To what fortunate accident may I attribute your presence here, Señor Conde?"
"A wish to see you, caballero."
"Ah, ah!" the general said, with a piercing glance, "Has grace fallen on you at last?—will you at length consent to join us? It would be a great pleasure to us, Señor Conde."
"You are nearer the truth than you suppose, Señor Padre," the count replied with a smile. "I am not on your side, as you pretend to suppose; but, on the other hand, I am no longer opposed to you; I have sent in my resignation, and, in one word, am neutral for the present."
"That is a bad position, Conde."
"Perhaps so, señor; but, for the present, I wish to keep it. Moreover, to be frank, I will confess that I have come more especially to see Don Aníbal."
"Me?" the hacendero exclaimed, as he stepped forward.