Dan's faith in Young Glory was unbounded. He little knew how desperate his young friend's own position was at the moment he was speaking.
A buzz of admiration went round as the brave Irishman left his comrades, for there was no denying that it was a courageous act.
However, Dan walked boldly past the Spanish officer and the two disarmed sentries until he came to the magazine.
To find the door open astounded him, for he certainly had not believed one word that had been said.
"Now, do you believe, fellow?" asked Manuel.
"Seein's belavin', Yer Honor."
"Very well; go and tell your friends so."
Dan reached forward towards the fuse which was still burning.
"Lay a hand on that, and I kill you," said the Spaniard, savagely.
"Shure, an' it was only my pipe I was afther lightin'."