'Obeying the injunction laid upon him by Adéle, Mr. Livermore affected
to demur at the high price placed by Pepito on his cooperation, but
finally appeared to yield to our joint solicitation.

''Well, then, the bargain is closed,' said Pepito, smiling. 'Now I can
understand why Pedro was so anxious to have me betray my trust. Oh! how
delighted I am to think he will find I have left him in the lurch.'

''Señor Pepito,' said Adéle, with a most winning smile, 'do you happen
to know a family residing some short distance from this city, who, in
consideration of a liberal compensation, would not object to take a lady
to board with them?'

''I do, Señora, at Toluca.'

''How far is it from here?'

''Twelve or fourteen leagues.'

'' Are you intimate enough with the family to take me there to-morrow,
without previously informing them of my intention?'

''Certainly; the lady I allude to is my sister.'

''Then to-morrow morning early, at seven, say. But Señor Pepito, I had
forgotten to warn you that in escorting me you will run a great danger.'

''Oh! I am not afraid of the robbers on the road; they know me well, and
never molest me.'