Venceslao was not much given to thinking, and had soon something else to employ his wits on, having to make diligent use of his eyes to escape the scouting and foraging parties of the English. He reached General Liniers in safety and delivered his despatch, which restored the despondent soldier to his usual confident activity. Taking Venceslao as his guide he marched rapidly by cross-roads back to town, exchanging a few harmless shots with a party of English who were advancing towards the Miserere, and at once took charge of the preparations for defence.
That evening, as Venceslao was lounging about under the colonnade in front of the Cabildo, he was accosted by Don Roderigo Ponce de Leon.
"What are you doing, friend?" said Don Roderigo.
"I am waiting for nightfall. There are so many English about that it will be dangerous to go out by daylight," replied Venceslao.
"Go out! And where are you going?"
"To present myself to my chief."
"That cannot be. Here in the city is the place for all good patriots. You have seen fire, we need men like you."
"And what can I do here? Of these manœuvres on foot I know nothing, and my horse will die of hunger."
"Of that have no fear, remain with me, I will find something for you to do."
"With very much pleasure; Señor, I am at your service," answered Venceslao.