"Which has saved our lives," observed José grimly.
"And I suspect," laughed Santiago, "that once upon a time it unlocked the door of a prison cell! But won't those natives suffer for this?"
"I don't think so. They are too strong, and their chief has more power in Peru than the viceroy and San Martin combined."
"You know him, then?"
"Yes, and so does José. He has done me good service, for which I am grateful, though I could never like the man. But here we are at the house. The good folk will wonder at our bringing an uninvited guest."
Fortunately a room had been set apart for us, so we could talk at our ease. I was burning to tell José about my father, but first of all we had to come to an understanding with Santiago. This time he made no demur at giving his parole. "In fact," said he gaily, "you have forced my hand, and I have no choice."
"So much the better," remarked José; "we may as well be comfortable together till the colonel arrives."
"And after that we may be hanged comfortably together!" laughed the major. "How do you like the prospect?"
"I can trust Miller. He is an honourable man, and will do what is right. It is Crawford who will suffer for inciting the troops to mutiny."
"José," said I presently, "I haven't told you that Major Mariano is an old friend of mine."