"That, as I think you understand, depends on when I may expect the concessions."
"I cannot sign the papers yet. It would provoke a storm of indignation that I cannot risk. My enemies have taught the people that I am robbing them when I make a grant to foreigners."
"In short, you mean to put down the rebels before you conclude the deal with me."
"You have guessed right. There will be no complaints when I have shown that I have the upper hand."
"If I had known your plans at the beginning, I'd have acted differently," Cliffe said.
Altiera gave him a piercing glance.
"Señor, I do not think you are justified in charging us with a want of candor, because there is evidence that you have not been quite honest with us. Our most dangerous enemy is Martin Sarmiento, and we find him staying at your hotel in Havana, where the señorita Cliffe helps him in an attempt to escape observation."
"I do not know the man," Cliffe protested with a puzzled air.
"Then it is strange that we should have caught a messenger bringing you a note from him," Altiera answered. "I think we shall gain nothing by fencing, señor."
Cliffe frowned.