"It will be the death of Doña Rita," exclaimed Paco with blunt passion. "Speak to the general—you can do it. He will not refuse Señor Herrera's life, if you ask it."
"You are mistaken," said Villabuena; "in that quarter there is no hope. The only chance for Don Luis is his escape, before to-morrow morning."
Paco shook his head, and remained for a moment silent. The Count observed him attentively.
"It is difficult," said the muleteer, "and dangerous."
"Difficulties may be overcome; for the danger, you shall be amply recompensed," said the Count, anxiously.
"I want no recompense, señor," cried the Navarrese, with one of those bursts of free and manly independence that characterise his countrymen. "I will do it for you if it cost me my life.
"But how is the escape to be accomplished?" said the Count. "Does any plan occur to you?"
"I could do it," said Paco, "had I been ten days longer off the doctor's list. But I am still weak; and even if I got Don Luis out of his prison, I should be unable to accompany him till he is out of danger. I take it he will want a guide. I must have some one to help me, Señor Conde."
"That increases the danger to all of us," said the Count. "Whom can we trust?"
"I can find some one," said Paco, after a moment's reflection, "who will be safe and silent, if well paid."