"Nonsense or not, give me an order, leaving blank the name of payee; stamp it with your seal—I found it in your pocket just now—and I'll collect the money. In two hours from that time you will be free."
"I must take time to decide what I'll do."
"There is only one thing for you to do."
"Let me free, so that I may decide the more quickly."
A voice called through the door. Without replying to Farquharson, Yoscolo made a quick gesture. The others gagged the prisoner with a scarf-end, and blindfolded him with a piece of silken sash.
The door was opened. A whispered conversation followed, then he heard the heavy tread of Yoscolo descending the stairs.
The men placed the Captain on the bed.
After what appeared an interminable time the watchers ungagged him and placed food at his lips. He ate of the tortillas, or Mexican corn bread, and of the chili con carne, or stewed meat and chili peppers, which were offered. A glass of Mission wine followed.
"Amigos, I can make you rich. Loosen these ropes and come with me. Why not be free from such a master as Yoscolo, and be rich at the same time? A ship will take you and your money where he can never reach you."
The gag was hastily replaced.