"War is declared," Leon answered, "and possibly within a week the communications with Valdivia will be interrupted. It would, therefore, be the height of imprudence to try and join you in that town."
"That is true, great Heavens! But in that case what is to be done?"
"A very simple thing; so soon as I have succeeded in rescuing them from the Indians, I will take them both to the convent of the Purísima Concepción at Valparaíso."
"Yes, you are right; that is the best place for them."
"In two months, then, they will be there, or I shall be dead."
"Thanks," said the old gentleman, as he held out his hand to the young man, who pressed it in his.
A quarter of an hour later, the little party was proceeding toward Valdivia, and the only persons left in camp were Leon, Harrison, Wilhelm, and Giacomo.