"Come," said I, "there is no need to starve in the midst of plenty. What shall we have? Roast potatoes and jerked beef? The potatoes will require the least attention."
"And they are not bad if you are downright hungry, as I was when we crept in here after the affair at Mirabe. There's a smart soldier leading your men, Crawford."
"Yes; he is an Englishman named Miller, and a very fine fellow. But how come you to be here?"
"We'll talk over these things presently. Meanwhile, let us cook the potatoes. Bring another handful; I daresay two of the men will be able to eat a little breakfast."
"If it is breakfast!"
"It must be for us, because we had our supper before you paid us so unceremonious a visit. Of course we were betrayed."
"Well, as to that," I replied, "you must ask the colonel; I only acted under orders."
"Just so. Well, I am very pleased to see you, though I dislike the way in which you introduced yourself. Cut this piece of beef up finely while I fetch some salt."
"Have you any?" I asked, in some surprise.
"Oh yes. Your amiable brigands know how to stock a larder."