"Why so, my son?" the monk asked, approaching the officer, though still holding his mule.
"For a very simple reason, my worthy Fray—"
"Pancracio, at your service, señor caballero," the monk said, with a bow.
"Pancracio—very good," the officer continued. "I want you, or, to speak more correctly, your good offices: in a word, I want you to shrive a man, who is about to die."
"Who is it?"
"Do you know El Rayo, señor padre?"
"Santa Virgin! Of course I know him, illustrious commandant."
"Well, it is he who is going to die."
"Have you arrested him?"
"Not yet; but in a few minutes it will be done, as I am seeking him."