"Nothing is easier; they are men like myself, hunters and adventurers belonging to my cuadrilla, accustomed to a desert life and Indian tricks. Soldiers would do us more harm than good. In this expedition, courage takes the second place; skill and craftiness alone can ensure our success. Good-bye, good-bye, all is arranged; I shall be back soon."
"Go, my friend, and luck be with you," the general said, affectionately.
"All that it is possible to attempt, General, I will do. Good-bye."
The hunter went out.
"That is all the assistance I can offer you, Don Aníbal; I wish that I could do more. Place the most perfect confidence in this adventurer; he is a man of heart, thoroughly devoted and intelligent."
"I have been able to appreciate him under critical circumstances," the count said, "and I have the best opinion of him."
"Heaven grant that his help may prove effectual," Don Aníbal murmured, with a sigh.
"Hope, my friend, hope. God will not abandon you."
Don Aníbal only answered with a sigh more profound than the first, and, after taking leave of the general, he and the count proceeded to the spot where the cuadrilla of the adventurers was encamped.
"Poor man!" the general muttered, as he saw the hacendero retire. "Will he succeed in saving the two unhappy captives? Alas!"