"And what should interest you, General Harero, in my fate? Your purpose is gained; I am removed from your path; why do you visit me thus at this still hour of the night, and in so extraordinary a manner by a secret entrance to my cell?"
"All this matters nothing. I came not here to answer questions. On one condition you are free. I have the means of your escape at hand."
"Name the condition," said the prisoner, though without exhibiting the least interest.
"There is a vessel which will sail for America with the morning tide; swear if I liberate you that you will take passage in her, and never return to this island."
"Never!" said the soldier, firmly. "I will never leave those I love so dearly."
"You refuse these terms?" continued the general, in a hoarse tone of voice.
"I do, most unhesitatingly. Life would be nothing to me if robbed of its brightest hope."
"You will not consider this for a moment? it is your only chance."
"I am resolved," said Lorenzo Bezan; "for more than one reason I am determined."
"Then die for your obstinacy," said General Harero, hoarse with rage and disappointment.