"I have pistols in my pocket, so I will dismiss my carriage, and we will walk home to my house; does that suit you, my dear colonel?"
"Excellently, general, the more so because if you evince any desire to see the scoundrel in question, nothing will be easier than for me to take you to the den he occupies, without attracting attention."
The general looked at his accomplice fixedly. "You have not told me all, colonel?" he said.
"I have not, general, but I am convinced that you understand the motive, which at this moment keeps my mouth shut."
"In that case, let us be off."
He wrapped himself in his cloak and left the box, followed by the colonel. A footman was waiting under the portico for his orders to bring up the carriage.
"Return to the house," the general said; "it is a fine night, and I feel inclined for a walk."
The footman retired.
"Come, colonel," Don Sebastian went on.
They left the theatre and proceeded slowly toward the Portales de Mercaderes, which were entirely deserted at this advanced hour of the night.