"Do so, pray, General," the adventurer said, seating himself in a butaca.
Miramón resumed his momentarily interrupted occupation. Don Jaime gazed at him for a moment with an expression of indescribable melancholy.
"So," he said, "your resolution is decidedly formed, General?"
"Oh, the dye is cast. I have crossed my Rubicon, I would say, were it not ridiculous for me to compare myself with Caesar. I am going to offer my enemies battle."
"I do not blame that resolution, for it is worthy of you, General. Will you permit me to ask when you propose setting out?"
"Tomorrow, immediately after the review I have ordered."
"Good: in that case I have time to send out two or three intelligent scouts, who will inform you of the enemy's exact position."
"Although several have already started, I gratefully accept your offer, don Jaime."
"Now, be kind enough to tell what direction you intend to follow, and the corps you have resolved to attack."
"I intend to take the bull by the horns; that is to say, González Ortega himself."