"besides the fact that it is in the nature of an infringement on
our prerogatives--"

Padre Sibyla dared not go on, but looked at Simoun.

"The petition has a somewhat suspicious character," corroborated
that individual, exchanging a look with the Dominican, who winked
several times.

Padre Irene noticed these things and realized that his cause was
almost lost--Simoun was against him.

"It's a peaceful rebellion, a revolution on stamped paper," added
Padre Sibyla.

"Revolution? Rebellion?" inquired the high official, staring from
one to the other as if he did not understand what they could mean.

"It's headed by some young men charged with being too radical and
too much interested in reforms, not to use stronger terms," remarked
the secretary, with a look at the Dominican. "Among them is a certain
Isagani, a poorly balanced head, nephew of a native priest--"

"He's a pupil of mine," put in Padre Fernandez, "and I'm much pleased
with him."

"_Puñales,_ I like your taste!" exclaimed Padre Camorra. "On the
steamer we nearly had a fight. He's so insolent that when I gave him
a shove aside he returned it."