They advanced. Behind them, at a short distance, came the army. Everything was deserted, as the guide had announced. Miramón examined the ground with the most serious attention.
"Good!" he muttered; "I know now what remains for me to do." and, addressing the guide, he said, "So, your master is in ambush to attack the enemy in the rear?"
"Yes, Excellency."
"But, how to warn him, so that his attack may coincide with ours?"
"Nothing is easier, Excellency. You see that tree which stands alone on the top of the heights?"
"Yes, I see it; what then?"
"I have orders to cut off the head of that tree at the precise moment when you commence the attack. The disappearance of the crown of the tree will be the signal for him to charge."
"By heavens!" he exclaimed; "That man was born a general: nothing escapes him. Go to the tree, climb up it, and hold yourself in readiness. When you see me raise my sword in the air, you will lop off the crown with one blow of your machete. You have understood me?"
"Perfectly, Excellency; but after that, what shall I do?"
"Whatever you like."