He met Tim returning, half-way between Durand's house and the cross-roads.
"Stop, señorito," he called; "I have a message from the gracious lady."
"What is it?" asked Tim, jumping off his machine.
"The señora bids you come with me," said Romaña. "Gendarmes have ridden to arrest the señor and you, and the mistress sent me to take you to a place of safety."
"I won't go. I will join Father," said Tim at once, preparing to ride off. Romaña detained him.
"I beg you to do as the señora wishes," he said. "What is the use of your going to prison, too? There is more chance for every one if you are free. You will do better to remain in hiding until we see what is intended towards the señor. I have friends in San Rosario and the capital; we Mollendists have our spies, like the Prefect. The señor will no doubt be taken to San Juan. Nothing will be done immediately. The Prefect is always very careful to cloak his misdeeds under the forms of law."
"I'll go back to Señor Durand's, then."
"That is unwise, señorito. The gendarmes may come there to look for you, and then Señor Durand himself will be in danger. I know a better place, and if you will come with me----"
"Very well, then; but I don't like it. What is to become of Mother?"
"The señora will be quite safe: the Prefect is always very polite to the ladies," said Romaña.