"Jest! You would call it a jest. You will not think so for long. Why, what can you do? No; stop shrinking back from me. It will be well that you listen. This is no parlour where you can turn me away with a word of scorn," and his eyes swept the bare walls. "I come to you with a chance of escape; I will take the risk and pledge you my aid. I alone can save you; there is no other to whom you can turn. In return I but ask my reward."
She hesitated, her eyes lifting to his face.
"You promise me your assistance?"
"Within the hour."
"How? What plan have you?"
"That I will not tell; you must trust me. I am the lieutenant of Pasqual Mendez," a touch of pride in his voice. "And my word alone will open the way. You will come?"
"Wait; I must know more. You say it is love which prompts your offer, señor. I cannot understand; and even if this be true, I must be frank and honest in my answer—I do not return your love."
"Bah! That is nothing. I know women; they learn love quickly when the way opens. I am not so ill to look at, señorita. A kiss now will seal the bargain! I will wait the rest."
"You ask no pledge, then, of me?"
"Only your consent to accompany me, and the kiss. Beyond that I take the gambler's chance. Only you must say yes or no; for it will require time for me to clear the road."