rather burrowing in caves, were usually the only victims of the
recruiting sergeant. However, as the letter given by Arthur to Pedro
could be of no use to the latter, I saw no reasonable ground to doubt
the story.

'As it seemed probable that Mr. Livermore would shortly leave the city,
I accepted his invitation, and promised to return and dine with him at
five o'clock, adding that I hoped then to meet Pepito, and receive from
him a full account of his adventures since we had parted.


XIII.

'About three o'clock, I returned home. I had ensconced myself, book in
hand, in my rocking-chair, when groans which seemed to proceed from Mr.
Livermore's room, attracted my attention. I listened at the door, and my
fears were realized. The groans were assuredly uttered by my neighbor. I
rushed into his room, and as I crossed toward his bed, a fearful
spectacle met my gaze.

'Lying across the bed, his face livid, every muscle in motion, a prey to
the most violent convulsions, I saw my unfortunate fellow-countryman. No
sooner, however, did the noise of my entrance fall upon his ear, than he
summoned strength enough to rise, and seizing a pistol that was beside
him, pointed it at me.

''Ah! it is you?' said he, lowering his weapon, and falling back, 'you
have arrived just in time to see me die.'

''Take courage, my friend; for heaven's sake, be of good cheer. It is