"There is no use in denying it, because Galdar's spies have, no doubt, seen her. I would be glad if you can tell me what has become of the president."
Francisca gave him a keen glance. "You do not know Alvarez is dead?"
"Ah!" said Kit. "I did not know. Was he killed?"
"He died soon after the fighting began. The doctors say it was apoplexy; he had been hurrying about in the burning sun."
"I wonder—He was a strong man and used to the sun."
Francisca smiled. "One does not ask questions at a time like this. It is prudent to believe what one is told. When the soldiers lost their leader they ran away."
Kit was silent for a few minutes. He had had a faint hope that the president might rally his supporters and begin the fight again, but the hope was gone. He knew all he wanted, and must leave the town as soon as he had had some food.
"Alvarez was a friend of mine, and the news you have given me is something of a shock," he said. "I think the country will feel its loss, but that is not my business, and since there is nothing to keep me here, I shall be glad to get away."
"It would be prudent to go soon," Francisca remarked in a low voice.
"I do not see why. I am no longer important enough for your friends to meddle with me."