"I know very well I am mistaken; but what would you have? I am naturally suspicious."
"Good! I will remain. But now for your second reason."
"This is it. I have in my turn a service to ask of you."
"To be paid for?"
"Of course."
"I am listening."
"I will give you a hundred ounces to lead me to my rival."
"Canarios!" the lepero exclaimed.
"One hundred ounces," the count said again.
"I understand you. One hundred ounces—a fine sum. But look ye, count: I am a costeño, and a lepero in the bargain. This desert life does not suit my temperament and injures my health. I have taken an oath to have no more of it. The road from here to the mission is difficult. We shall have to cross the desert. No, taking all things into consideration, it is impossible."