“You know, certainly, the meaning of all this,” Ramón said. “The Governor, who hates this southland, is eager to have it troubled as much as possible, even if he is forced to sacrifice a few of his own men.”
“Sí!” Barbados said, both in question and in affirmation.
“See that the señorita is guarded well, and, in the meantime, before I think of such things as love, let us attend to more serious business.”
“Is there a chance of profit?”
“How would you like to raid rich San Diego de Alcála when there would be small danger?”
The eyes of Barbados glistened. He knew a great deal about San Diego de Alcála. The town was rich, and the mission also. Wealth had been stored there since the earliest days of the missions.
“Attend me!” Ramón commanded. “You have here certain caballeros held as prisoners, and the señorita also. I’ll go to San Diego de Alcála and spread the news at the presidio. I outrank the commandante there, and my words will be commands.”
“I understand, capitan!”
“There are only a few troopers there now, the remainder having been sent to San Juan Capistrano to put down mutinous natives. I’ll lead these troopers back to the pirate camp. Do you arrange an ambush at the head of the little cañon. I’ll lead the men into it. You and your crew can cut them down. And then the way to San Diego de Alcála will be open to you!”
“By my naked blade—” Barbados swore.