“What will be the end of that?”
“Whatever you like, Miguel,” was the reply. “Gaspara’s orders are only to take care he does not get away. But you can depend on him to do anything that may seem necessary to make your position at the head of Joyalita’s government secure.”
“Anything?” whispered Miguel significantly.
“Anything. If you would prefer that he never came back, you have only to say the word to Gaspara, and there will be nothing more seen of Marcos. I don’t like to go to extremes. But, if you wish it——”
“Bah! You’re too mealy-mouthed, Solado,” snarled Miguel. “Still, we can let that matter rest for the present. Everything ready for the council?”
“Yes.”
“I’m glad of it, for I had a hard and hurried trip from New York to be here in time. When we have made the arrangement with Carita, I shall take my place as the reigning prince of Joyalita, and I think I shall then be in a position to care for those who are faithful to me.”
Don Solado bowed low.
“That is the understanding, your highness!” he said, in smooth, significant accents.
Miguel left the apartment, and Don Solado went on with his preparations for the council meeting to be held that day, and which would settle the future course of the government of Joyalita.