It almost seemed as if Sorillo expected his stronghold to be attacked. The path was guarded by sentries, and a score of men were stationed at the entrance to the ravine, They passed us through without trouble, and before long I found myself in the presence of the chief.
"You are surprised to see me?" I said briskly.
"Yes; I thought you were in Lima."
"I was there last night."
"You have made a wonderfully quick journey. You must be tired and in need of refreshment. Come; I can at least offer you a good supper."
"Not yet, thank you. I want to ask you a question first. What have you done with Don Felipe Montilla?"
"The dog is in the hut yonder."
He spoke with both anger and contempt; his face underwent a sudden change; for the first time I saw how cruel it could look. My heart sank as I realized the uselessness of any appeal to him for mercy. Then I thought of Rosa, and said,—
"It is on Don Felipe's account I am here. What has he done? Why has he been brought here?"
"If another dared question me like this, I would answer him with a pistol shot," he cried fiercely; "but I do not forget that you are the son of Don Eduardo Crawford. Come, let us eat and forget this business."