“I am aware that it does not.”
“I am Ensign Sanchez, señor. May I have the pleasure of knowing you?”
“Man to man, I am glad to make your acquaintance. As for the name—does it matter? You may call me Felipe, or Juan—whatever pleases you.”
“It is highly irregular.”
“Is the pass irregular, señor? You know the times, I take it. Can you conceive a reason why a gentleman might not wish his name cried aloud for all men to hear?”
“Ah! If you are on business of his excellency’s——”
“Let us have no misunderstanding or false pretense, señor. I have not said that I am on business of state. I have said merely that I hold his excellency’s pass, and that you are bound to honour it.”
The ensign rose and bowed; and he was smiling.
“So be it!” he replied. “I am glad to welcome you to Santa Barbara. Your business, I perceive, is indeed your own. Command me, if there is anything you desire.”
“Your men have given me food and drink, señor, thank you and them. I was forced to walk into the post because of an attack of bandits——”