CHAPTER VII
A NIGHT SPENT IN A CAVE
"The drink is ready. Will I bring it to the ladies now, Cap'?"
These words awakened Doña Carmelita from a sound sleep into which she had fallen despite the discomfiture of rain-soaked clothes. The fire was burning brightly, and she found herself nearer the blaze whither some one, without awakening her, had drawn the pile of skins on which she was lying. The warmth had nearly dried her clothing.
The dueña had recovered from her swooning, and was partially sitting up endeavoring to collect her senses.
"The drink is ready, Cap'. Will you ask the ladies if they want it? I don't know a word of their lingo."
The man touched his hat in military style. The one denominated "Cap'" came up, he who had spoken to Carmelita a little previously.
"My man here has prepared some strong black coffee for you. An allowance of the native spirit you call 'aguardiente' has been added. I advise you both to drink freely of the mixture. Blankets will be provided you, and you will sleep here safe and warm till morning. Will you have the beverage now? I trust you feel not greatly any effect of the unusual experience which must have been yours."
"O!" moaned the dueña, now coming somewhat more to herself. "What a terrible happening! I expected each instant to be killed. O! where am I?"
The man laughed. "I cannot discuss what occurred to you before we found you outside this cave. Neither can I tell you where you are, for I know only in a vague way the location of the place. Let it suffice that you are safe here. Now, warm yourself with this drink and seek to sleep. The morning brings, doubtless, searchers for you."