"I almost despaired of meeting you."
"Did I not let you know that I should come?"
"That is true; but I feared that some sudden obstacle——"
"Nothing ought to impede an honest man in accomplishing a sacred duty," the first horseman answered, with an emphasis on the words.
"The other bowed with an air of satisfaction. Then," he said, "I can count on you, Ño ——."
"No names here, señor," the other sharply interrupted him. "Caspita, an old wood ranger like you, a man who has long been a Tigrero, ought to remember that the trees have ears and the leaves eyes."
"Yes, you are right. I should and do remember it; but permit me to remark that if it is not possible for us to talk about business here, I do not know exactly where we can do so."
"Patience, señor, I wish to serve you, as you know, for you were recommended to me by a man to whom I can refuse nothing. Let yourself, therefore, be guided by me, if you wish us to succeed in this affair, which, I confess to you at once, offers enormous difficulties, and must be managed with the greatest prudence."
"I ask nothing better; still you must tell me what I ought to do."
"For the present very little; merely follow me at a distance to the place where I purpose taking you."