He was thinking that even if they walked openly through the country, and at their best speed, they could not hope to reach the place in less than ten hours, allowing for losing their way. Juan understood him.
“Never mind,” he said. “Let us start, and we may be able to go a long distance on the mountain-top without seeing a soul. Come! The sight of the ship makes me stronger. How glad they will be to see us!”
“Will they not?”
“Tell me, Diego,” said Juan, “I have been wishing to ask you and did not dare; did Miguel knock you off the yard?”
“No. Why do you ask?”
“Because when I saw you falling I saw him with his arm upraised, as if he either had struck you or intended to.”
“I think he tried to help me,” said Diego; “but I don’t know.”
“If the men knew he was on the yard with you, and they will be certain to, I am afraid it will fare ill with him. Come, let us hurry!”
“‘LOOK!’ SAID DIEGO.”