"And now," she said solemnly, "the time is short. I must insist upon
your sleeping. Rest, and I will watch by your side. A friendly voice at
least shall call you for the last dreadful trial of all."




CHAPTER XXV.

THE TRIPLE EXECUTION--A SOLDIER'S GRAVE--TORO'S LUCK.


Morning dawned.

The eastern sky was only just tinged with the light of the rising sun
when the bugle call summoned the firing party.

The party in question was composed of six men commanded by Hunston.

He had insisted upon having this post, one that none of the brigands
envied him--so that he might gloat over his victims at the last hour.

The two boys were aroused with some difficulty, for strange though it
may appear, they were sleeping soundly when the fatal moment
approached.

"Come," said the girl, in a hollow voice. "Lirico is already on the
ground."

"We mustn't be behindhand then."