“There was. Payne reckoned the fellow meant to dope it. What do you think?”
“It is possible, if he had ground for being revengeful. Some of the Indians from the mountains are expert poisoners. But why should anybody wish to injure your comrade?”
“I didn’t suggest that he wished to injure Brandon. He might have meant to dope me.”
Don Sebastian smiled. “That is so, but on the whole I do not think it probable. Do you know of anybody whom your friend has harmed?”
Jake decided to tell him about Oliva. He was now convinced that Don Sebastian knew more than he admitted and that his interest was not unfriendly. Besides, there was somehow a hint of authority in the fellow’s thin, dark face. He showed polite attention as Jake narrated the events that had led to Oliva’s dismissal, but the lad imagined that he was telling him nothing he had not already heard.
“The motive may have been revenge, but as Señor Brandon was stabbed that ought to satisfy his enemy. Besides, these people are unstable; they do not even indulge in hatred long. Do you know if your comrade has taken any part in political intrigue?”
“It’s most unlikely; he would make a very poor conspirator,” Jake replied.
“Then have you heard of any señorita, or perhaps a half-breed girl who has taken his fancy?”
“No,” said Jake. “Dick is not that kind.”
He thought Don Sebastian had been clearing the ground, eliminating possibilities to which he did not attach much weight, and waited with interest for his remarks.