"It will be done," said the Cuban.
"But to business," continued Clif. "You have some papers for me, have you not?"
"Yes," replied the courier, raising his blouse and drawing forth a package of papers from its place of concealment. "Important dispatches from our general for your gallant rear admiral. Besides much information concerning the Spanish fortifications and troops, there are details of our own plans and preparations which it would be ruinous to have fall into Spanish hands."
"I'll see that the Spanish don't get them," he said, with a confident air.
"Be cautious," exclaimed the Cuban. "The enemy have made one effort to intercept them. I was pursued a mile back from here, but my knowledge of the country enabled me to give them the slip. It was that encounter that delayed me."
This was a danger that had not been reckoned on. Every preparation for the transfer of the papers had been arranged with utmost secrecy.
"But did the Spaniards know of your mission here?" asked Clif, in some surprise.
"I know not," replied the other. "It is incredible how they could have discovered it, but I do know that I encountered a detachment of their troops and that they pursued me."
"Then they may be following you to this point," exclaimed Clif.
"I think not," replied the Cuban. "I made a wide detour and know the ways of the land too well to leave any trail."