“You may tell your friend,” and the man emphasized the word, “that he will not be molested in Cordova.”
“Do you all hold yourselves responsible for him?”
“Yes.”
“Very well. Good afternoon.”
Quentin inclined his head slightly, left the office, crossed the hall, and went into the street. He made his way to El Cuervo’s tavern, where he told the landlord to let Señor José know that he could come to Cordova with absolute safety.
CHAPTER XXX
PROJECTS
IT was very convenient for Quentin to have Pacheco in Cordova. The latter carried on the conspiracy as smoothly as silk; he had come to an understanding with the secretary of the Count of Doña Mencia, who was expecting to contribute the money realized from a sale of some Government bonds in Madrid. It was also convenient for Quentin to have Pacheco agitate the people; if the agitation was successful, he would profit by it; if not, he would peacefully retire.
Some days later, Quentin had not yet arisen when Pacheco presented himself at his house. María Lucena’s mother opened the door and conducted him into the bedroom.
“Don’t get up,” said Pacheco. “Stay right in bed.”
“What’s doing? What brings you here?”