After hearing all, Santander rose in his stirrups, his features showing triumph, such as Satan might feel at a world of souls just delivered to him.
“The game is mine at last!” he muttered to himself, “every trick of it. They’re in a trap now; and when they go out of it, ’twill be to the garrota.”
For a moment he sat silent, apparently considering what was his best course to pursue. Then, seemingly having decided, he called out—
“Ramirez! Send a couple of men to me—the corporal and another.”
These, detached from the escort, came trotting back along the road.
“Here, cabo! Take charge of this curious specimen. Keep him here, and see that you hold him safe till you have my orders for releasing him. Don’t stray from this spot as you value your own neck—not an inch.”
Saying which he put spurs to his horse, and rejoined his escort. Then commanding, “Forward! at the double quick!” they started off at full gallop towards the city.