"And," Valentine went on, "from that town to your hacienda is a distance of about fifty miles."
"Yes, about that."
"You see, then, that, to my great regret, it is impossible for me to accept your generous offer."
"What is to be done?" General Ibañez asked.
"It is awkward," Valentine replied, "for time presses."
"And your mother cannot possibly remain here; that is quite decided," Don Miguel objected.
Curumilla had hitherto listened to the talk in his usual way, not saying a word. Seeing that the hunters could not agree, he turned to Valentine.
"A friend would speak," he said.
All looked at him, for the hunters knew that Curumilla never spoke save to give advice, which was generally followed. Valentine gave a nod of assent.
"Our ears are open, chief," he said.