Such was the cliff upon whose edge the cibolero proposed to rein up his steed. No wonder the proposal was received with a surprise that caused a momentary silence in the crowd. When that passed, voices were heard exclaiming,—“Impossible!”
“He is mad!”
“Pah! he’s joking!”
“Esta burlando los militarios!” (He’s mocking the military gents); and such-like expressions.
Carlos sat playing with his bridle-rein, and waiting for a reply.
He had not long to wait. Vizcarra and Roblado muttered some hasty words between themselves; and then, with an eagerness of manner, Roblado cried out—
“I accept the wager!”
“And I another onza!” added the Comandante.
“Señores,” said Carlos, with an air of apparent regret, “I am sorry I cannot take both. This doubloon is all I have in the world; and it’s not likely I could borrow another just now.”
As he said this Carlos regarded the crowd with a smile, but many of these were in no humour for smiling. They were really awed by the terrible fate which they believed awaited the reckless cibolero. A voice, however, answered him:—