If once he had affirmed he would do a thing, he did it, without regard to anybody or any danger.
And then, what had he to dread in coming a second time amongst his enemies? Did he not hold the general in his power? the general, whose life answered for his own; all knew that he would not hesitate to sacrifice him to his safety.
It was about eight o'clock in the morning, a brilliant sun shed its dazzling rays in profusion upon the picture we have endeavoured to describe.
Doña Luz left the grotto, leaning upon the arm of the mother of Loyal Heart, and followed by Nô Eusebio.
The two women were sad and pale, their faces looked worn, and their red eyes showed they had been weeping.
As soon as Belhumeur perceived them, he advanced towards them, bowing respectfully.
"Has not my son returned yet?" the old lady asked, anxiously.
"Not yet," the hunter replied, "but keep up your spirits, señora, it will not be long before he is here."
"Good God! I do not know why, but it seems as if he must be detained at a distance from us by some untoward event."
"No, señora, I should know if he were so. When I left him last night, for the purpose of tranquillizing you, and executing the orders he gave me, he was in an excellent situation; therefore, believe me, be reassured, and, above all, have confidence."