As I spoke to you beside his body I saw that we were
surrounded, and that your capture was unavoidable. I should have
shared your fate had I hesitated. I instantly captured you
myself, so as to preserve the confidence of the band.
Your own sense will tell you that there was nothing else for me
to do. I do not know now whether I can save you, but at least I
will try."
This was a new light upon the situation. I told him that I could
not tell how far he spoke the truth, but that I would judge him
by his actions.
"I ask nothing better," said he. "A word of advice to you! The
chief will see you now. Speak him fair, or he will have you sawn
between two planks. Contradict nothing he says. Give him such
information as he wants. It is your only chance. If you can
gain time something may come in our favour. Now, I have no more
time. Come at once, or suspicion may be awakened."
He helped me to rise, and then, opening the door, he dragged me
out very roughly, and with the aid of the fellows outside he
brutally pushed and thrust me to the place where the guerilla
chief was seated, with his rude followers gathered round him.
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