“Let us go then,” ordered Ruiz. And the party put itself on the road to the hacienda, just as the sun began to set and the great shadows from the mountains were extending themselves across the valley.
Roque passed the arroyo and entered the camp. Some time passed and he did not return. Panfilo began to believe that he did not come to the appointment because he was afraid; but soon he heard a whistle at the foot of the slope and saw Roque on horseback, striking his chest arrogantly, as if saying:
“Here you have me at your orders.”
On seeing him Panfilo hastened to meet him.
“Now yes,” said Roque, “here I am ready to serve you and give you all you want.”
“Well, you know what I want; that we shall have a good tussle.”
“It seems to me that here we have a good place.”
“Well, then, do me the favor,” exclaimed the impetuous Panfilo, drawing a revolver.
“Listen to me,” said Roque, drawing his also; “if really you desire that we shall kill each other, don’t let us create an excitement. Put away your pistol and take your machete.”