“But, Francisco,” whispers Calderon in the ear of his confederate, after drawing him a little apart from the other two; “about the niñas? You don’t intend anything with them?”
“Certainly not—not to-night; nor in this fashion. I hope being able to approach them in gentler guise, and more becoming time. When they’re without a peso in the world, they’ll be less proud; and may be contented to stay a little longer in California. To-night we’ve enough on our hands without thinking of women. One thing at a time—their money first—themselves afterwards.”
“But suppose they should recognise us?”
“They can’t. Disguised as we are, I defy a man’s mother to know him. If they did, then—”
“Then what?”
“No use reflecting what. Don’t be so scared, man! If I’d anticipated any chance of its coming to extremes of the kind you’re pondering upon, I wouldn’t be here prepared for only half measures. Perhaps we sha’n’t even wake the ladies up; and if we do, there’s not the slightest danger of our being known. So make your mind easy, and let’s get through with it. See! Diaz and Rocas are getting impatient! We must rejoin them, and proceed to business at once.”
The four housebreakers again set their heads together; and after a few whispered words, to settle all particulars about their plan of proceeding, advance towards the door.
Once up to it, they stand close in, concealed by its o’ershadowing arch.
With the butt of his pistol, De Lara knocks.
Diaz, unknown to the family, and therefore without fear of his voice being recognised, is to do the talking.