"Ah!" said Sarmiento. "Did he recognize me?"
"I don't think so, but I can't be sure. He was suspicious. But it's hardly prudent to stand talking in the street."
They entered a shabby café, and, choosing a quiet corner, ordered wine.
"If our friend's suspicions are aroused, he'll lose no time in following them up," Sarmiento said; and Grahame noticed that although the café was almost empty he avoided the secretary's name. "A Pinillo boat sails at daybreak and passengers go on board to-night. It seems to me that I'd better embark."
"But the Pinillo liners don't call at your port!" Grahame said.
Sarmiento smiled.
"It may puzzle our friend if he watches the mole. When I have been on board I will return quietly, but not to the hotel. I know this city, where I have trustworthy acquaintances. I may be able to learn the business that has brought him here."
"But what about your daughter?"
"I do not think our friend knows her, and our name is not on the hotel book. There is a Cuban lady I can leave her with."
"One would imagine that watching the fellow might be dangerous. There are half-breed rascals in the port who wouldn't hesitate about sandbagging or stabbing you for a few dollars. But, after all, you run some risk at Rio Frio."