Don Inocencio entered hastily. His altered countenance showed that his
soul, consecrated to religion and to the study of the classics, was not
as tranquil as usual.

"Bad news!" he said, laying his hat on a chair and loosening the cords
of his cloak.

Dona Perfecta turned pale.

"They are arresting people," added Don Inocencio, lowering his voice,
as if there was a soldier hidden under every chair. "They suspect, no
doubt, that the people here would not put up with their high-handed
measures, and they have gone from house to house, arresting all who have
a reputation for bravery."

Dona Perfecta threw herself into an easy chair and clutched its arms
convulsively.

"It remains to be seen whether they have allowed themselves to be
arrested," observed Remedios.

"Many of them have--a great many of them," said Don Inocencio, with an
approving look, addressing Dona Perfecta, "have had time to escape, and
have gone with arms and horses to Villahorrenda."

"And Ramos?"

"They told me in the cathedral that he is the one they are looking for
most eagerly. Oh, my God! to arrest innocent people in that way, who