He knew her
whereabouts and her peril--why did he not come? Then, more calmly,
she asked herself what he, or what any one, could do for her. How
could she look for succor when two nations were at war?
Night had come before she finally gave up and acknowledged the
hopelessness of her situation. She had fought bravely, but with
darkness her fears grew blacker. She was on the verge of her first
breakdown when, in the early dusk outside, she heard voices and
the stamping of horses' hoofs. The sounds were muffled by the
heavy wooden shutters she had taken pains to close and bar, but
they told her that Longorio had returned. Since it was futile to
deny him entrance, she waited where she was. Old Pancho's voice
sounded outside; then there came a knock upon the door of the room
in which she stood.
"Come in," she said, tensely.
The lieutenant thrust his head in and, removing his hat,
announced, "There is someone here to see General Longorio on
important business. He says you will do."
"I?"
"Yes. He says he is one of us--"
Pancho was pushed aside, the door was flung back, and a man strode
swiftly into the lamplight. He paused, blinking as if momentarily
blinded, and Alaire clutched at the nearest chair for support.
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