"Bait my horses on my way into Andalusia," answered L'Isle, riding off
at full gallop, leaving Bradshawe much provoked at his slipping out of
his hands before he could put him to the question.




CHAPTER XVII.


Who cannot be crushed with a plot?

All is Well that Ends Well.


Sir Rowland Hill had sent L'Isle off to the southward, to ascertain
the strength and condition of the reserve of Spanish troops moving up
from Andalusia. One might think that these things could be better
learned from the official reports of the _Conde d'Abispal_ and the
officers under him. But from the Prince of Parma's day to this,
Spanish officers in reporting the number and condition of their
commands, have made it a rule to state what they ought to be, not what
they are, leaving all deficiencies to be found out on the day of
battle. Sir Rowland, knowing this, now made use of L'Isle, whose
knowledge of the Spanish language and character, and his acquaintance
with many officers of rank, enabled him to ascertain the truth without
betraying the object of his mission, or giving offence to these proud
and jealous allies. Ten days had gone by when he again rode into
Elvas, and in spite of the secrecy aimed at in military councils, many
symptoms indicated that the campaign was about to open.