As we sat discoursing at the table, the
national entered with the passport in his hand, and sat down by us.
National. - Caballero! I return you your passport, it is quite in
form; I rejoice much to have made your acquaintance; I have no
doubt that you can give me some information respecting the present
war.
Myself. - I shall be very happy to afford so polite and honourable a
gentleman any information in my power.
National. - What is England doing, - is she about to afford any
assistance to this country? If she pleased she could put down the
war in three months.
Myself. - Be under no apprehension, Senor nacional; the war will be
put down, don't doubt. You have heard of the English legion, which
my Lord Palmerston has sent over? Leave the matter in their hands,
and you will soon see the result.
National. - It appears to me that this Caballero Balmerson must be a
very honest man.
Myself. - There can be no doubt of it.
National. - I have heard that he is a great general.
Myself. - There can be no doubt of it. In some things neither
Napoleon nor the sawyer {5} would stand a chance with him for a
moment. Es mucho hombre.
National. - I am glad to hear it. Does he intend to head the legion
himself?
Myself. - I believe not; but he has sent over, to head the fighting
men, a friend of his, who is thought to be nearly as much versed in
military matters as himself.
National. - I am rejoiced to hear it. I see that the war will soon
be over. Caballero, I thank you for your politeness, and for the
information which you have afforded me. I hope you will have a
pleasant journey. I confess that I am surprised to see a gentleman
of your country travelling alone, and in this manner, through such
regions as these. The roads are at present very bad; there have of
late been many accidents, and more than two deaths in this
neighbourhood. The despoblado out yonder has a particularly evil
name; be on your guard, Caballero. I am sorry that Gypsy was
permitted to pass; should you meet him and not like his looks,
shoot him at once, stab him, or ride him down. He is a well known
thief, contrabandista, and murderer, and has committed more
assassinations than he has fingers on his hands. Caballero, if you
please, we will allow you a guard to the other side of the pass.
You do not wish it? Then, farewell. Stay, before I go I should
wish to see once more the signature of the Caballero Balmerson.
I showed him the signature, which he looked upon with profound
reverence, uncovering his head for a moment; we then embraced and
parted.
