"Pardon me, Captain," the horseman continued; "one word more, if you please."
"Say it, señor."
"It is unnecessary for anyone but yourself to hear it."
"Nothing is easier, señor," the officer replied, as he came near enough to touch the stranger; "now speak." The horseman leaned down, and murmured in a low voice a few words, which the officer listened to with marks of the most profound surprise.
"Are you satisfied now, Captain?"
"Perfectly, señor;" and turning to the sergeant, who was standing a few yards off, he said "open the gate."
"It is unnecessary," the stranger remarked; "with your permission I will dismount here, and a soldier can hold my horse."
"As you please, señor."
The horseman dismounted, and threw the bridle to the sergeant, who held it till a private should come to take his place.
"Now, Captain," the stranger continued, "if you wish to set the seal on your kindness by leading me yourself to the person who expects me, I am at your orders."