 24 At the Hacienda of Don Alejandro Behind him he left a tumult in the town. The shrieks of the fat landlord had aroused the pueblo. Men came running, servants hurrying at their sides and carrying torches. Men peered from the windows of the houses. Natives stood still wherever they happened to be and shivered, for it had been their dear experience that whenever there was a tumult natives paid the price. Many young cabilleros of hot blood were there, and for some time there had been no excitement in the pueblo of Reina de Los Angeles. These young men crowded into the tavern and listened to the wails of the landlord, and some hurried to the house of the magistrado and saw his wounds, and heard him to claim on the indignity that had been offered the law, and therefore his Excellency the Governor. Captain Ramon came down from the Presidio, and when he heard the cause of the tumult he swore great oce, and sent his only well man to ride along the Pala Road, overtake Sergeant Gonzalez and his troopers, and bid them return and take the trail, since at the time being they were following a false scent. But the young cabilleros saw in this circumstance a chance for excitement that was to their liking, and they asked permission of the commandante to form a posse and take after the highway man, a permission they received immediately. Some thirty of them mounted horses, looked to weapons, and set out, with the intention of dividing into three bands of ten each when they came to forks in the trail. The townsmen cheered them as they started, and they galloped rapidly up the hill and toward the San Gabriel Road, making a deal of noise, glad that now there was a moon to let them see the foe when they approached him. In time they separated, ten going toward San Gabriel proper, ten taking the trail that led to the Hacienda of Frey Felipe, and the last ten following a road that curved down the valley to the neighborhood of a series of landed estates owned by wealthy dons of the day. Along this road Don Diego Vega had ridden some time before, the deaf and dumb Bernardo behind him on the mule. Don Diego rode with leisure, and it was long after nightfall when he turned from the main road and followed a narrower one toward his father's house. Don Alejandro Vega, the head of the family, sat alone at his table, the remains of the evening meal before him, when he heard a horseman before the door. A servant ran to open it, and Don Diego entered, Bernardo following close behind him. Ah, Diego, my son, the old Don cried, extending his arms. Don Diego was clasped for an instant to his father's breast, and then he sat down beside the table and grasped a mug of wine. Having refreshed himself, he faced Don Alejandro once more. It has been a fatiguing journey, he remarked. And the cause for it, my son? I felt that I should come to the hacienda, Don Diego said. It is no time to be in the pueblo. Wherever a man turns, he finds not but violence and bloodshed. This confounded Senor Zoro. Ha! What of him? Please do not ha me, sir and father. I have been hared at from morning until night these several days. These are turbulent times. This Senor Zoro has made a visit to the Pulido hacienda and frightened everyone there. I went to my hacienda on business, and from there I went over to see old Frey Felipe, thinking I might get a chance to meditate in his presence. And who makes an appearance but a big sergeant and his troopers seeking this Senor Zoro? They caught him. I believe not, sir and father. I returned to the pueblo, and what think you happened there this day? They brought in Frey Felipe, accused of having swindled a dealer, and after mockery of a trial they lashed him to a post and gave him the whip fifteen times across his back. The scoundrels! Don Alejandro cried. I could stand it no longer, and so I decided to pay you a visit. Wherever I turn there is turmoil. It is enough to make a man insane. You must ask Bernardo if it is not. Don Alejandro glanced at the deaf and dumb native and grinned. Bernardo grinned back as a matter of course, not knowing it was no manner in which to act in the presence of a Don. You have something else to tell me? Don Alejandro asked his son, looking at him surgingly. By the saints, now it comes. I had hoped to avoid it, father and sir. Let me hear about it. I paid a visit to the Pulido Hacienda, and spoke with Don Carlos and his wife, also the Senorita Lolita. You were pleased with the Senorita? She is as lovely as any girl of my acquaintance, Don Diego said. I spoke to Don Carlos of the matter of marriage, and he appeared to be delighted. Ah, he would be, said Don Alejandro. But the marriage cannot take place, I fear. How is this? There is some shadow concerning the Senorita? Not to my knowledge. She appears to be a sweet and innocent maiden, father and sir. I had them come to rena de los Angeles and spend a couple of days at my house. I had it arranged so that she could see the furnishings and learn of my well. That was a wise arrangement, my son. But she will have none of me. How is this? Refuses to wed with a vega? Refuses to become a lie to the most powerful family in the country with the best blood in the land? She intimated, father and sir, that I am not the sort of man for her. She is prone to foolishness, I believe. She would have me play a guitar under her window, perhaps, and make eyes and hold hands when her duena is not looking, and all that silliness. By the saints, are you a vega? An Alejandro cried. Would not any worthy man want a chance like that? Would not any Cabrero delight to serenade his love on a moonlight night? The little things you term silly are the very essence of love. I doubt not the Senorita was displeased with you. But I did not see that such things were necessary, Don Diego said. Did you go to the Senorita in a cold-blooded manner and suggest that you wed and have it done with? Had you the idea, young sir, that you were purchasing a horse or a bull? By the saints! And so there is no chance for you to wed the girl? She has the best blood by far, next to our own. Don Carlos made me have hope, Diego replied. He took her back to the Hacienda and suggested that perhaps when she had been there a time and had reflected she might change her mind. She is yours if you play the game, Don Alejandro said. You are a vega, and therefore the best catch in the country. Only but half a lover, and the Senorita is yours. What sort of blood is in your veins? I have half a mind to slit one of them and see. Cannot we allow this marriage business to drop for the time being? Don Diego asked. You are twenty-five. I was quite old when you were born. Soon I shall go the way of my fathers. You are the only son, the heir, and you must have a wife and offspring. Is the vega family to die out because your blood is water? When you wife within the quarter-year, young sir, and a wife I can accept into the family, or I leave my wealth to the Franciscans when I pass away. My father, I mean it. Get life into you. I would you had half the courage and spirit this Senor Zorro, this highway man has. He has principles and he fights for them. He aids the helpless and avenges the oppressed. I salute him. I would rather have you, my son, in his place, running the risk of death and imprisonment than to have you a lifeless dreamer of dreams that amount to not. My father, I have been a two-diffle son. I would you had been a little wild, it would have been more natural, Don Alejandro sighed. I could overlook a few escapades more easily than I can lifelessness. Arouse yourself, young sir. Remember that you are a vega. When I was your age I was not a laughing stock. I was ready to fight at a wink, to make love to every pair of flashing eyes, to stand up to any cabillero in sports rough or refined. Ha! I pray you, do not ha me, sir and father. My nerves are on edge. You must be more of a man. I shall attempt it immediately, Don Diego said, straightening himself somewhat in his chair. I had hoped to avoid it, but it appears that I cannot. I shall woo the senorita Lolita as other men woo maidens. You meant what you said about your fortune? I did, said Don Alejandro. Then I must be stir myself. It would never do, of course, to let that fortune go out of the family. I shall think these matters over in peace and quiet tonight. Perhaps I can meditate here, far from the pueblo. By the saints the last exclamation was caused by a sudden tumult outside the house. Don Alejandro and his son heard a number of horsemen stop, heard their calls to one another, heard bridles jingling, and blades rattling. There is no peace in all the world, Don Diego said with deep and gloom. It sounds like half a score of men, Don Alejandro said. It was, exactly. A servant opened the door and into the great room there strode ten cabilleros, with blades at their sides and pistols in their belts. Ha! Don Alejandro! We crave hospitality, the foremost cried. You have it without asking cabilleros. What manner of journey is this you take? We pursue Senor Zorro, the highwayman. By the saints, Don Diego cried. One cannot escape it even here, violence and bloodshed. He invaded the plaza at rain at day Los Angeles. The spokesman went on. He had the magistrato whipped, because he sentenced Fray Felipe to receive the lash, and he whipped the fat landlord, and he fought half a score of men while he was about it. Then he rode away, and we made up a band to pursue him. He has not been in this neighborhood. Not to my knowledge, Don Alejandro said. My son arrived off the highway but a short time ago. You did not see the fellow, Don Diego? I did not, Don Diego said. That is one stroke of good fortune that came my way. Don Alejandro had sent for servants, and now wine mugs were on the long table, and heaps of small cakes, and the cabilleros began to eat and drink. Don Diego knew well what that meant. Their pursuit of the highwayman was at an end. Their enthusiasm had waned. They would sit at his father's table and drink throughout the night, gradually getting intoxicated, shout and sing and tell stories, and in the morning ride back to rain at day Los Angeles like so many heroes. It was the custom. The chase of Cenero Zero was but a pretext for a merry time. The servants brought great stone jugs filled with rare wine and put them on the table, and Don Alejandro ordered that meat be fetched also. The young cabilleros had a weakness for these parties at Don Alejandro's, for the Don's good wife had been dead for several years, and there were no womenfolk except servants, so they could make what noise they pleased throughout the night. In time they put aside pistols and blades, and began to boast and brag, and Don Alejandro had his servants put the weapons in a far corner out of the way, for he did not wish a drunken quarrel with a dead cabillero or two in his house. Don Diego drank and talked with them for a time, and then sat to one side and listened, as if such foolishness bored him. It were well for this Cenero Zero that we did not catch up with him, one cried. Any one of us is a match for the fellow. For the soldier's men of merit he would have been taken long before this. Ha! for a chance at him! Another screeched. How the landlord did howl when he was whipped. He rode in this direction, Don Alejandro asked. We are not sure as to that. He took the San Gabriel trail, and thirty of us followed. We separated into three bands, each going a different direction. It is the good fortune of one of the other bands to have him now, I suppose. But it is our excellent good fortune to be here. Don Diego stood before the company. Senors, you will pardon me I know if I retire, he said. I am fatigued with the journey. Retire by all means, one of his friends cried, and when you are rested, come out to us again and make merry. They laughed at that, and Don Diego bowed ceremoniously, and observed that several scarcely could get to their feet to bow in return, and then the scion of the house of Vega hurried from the room with the deaf and dumb man at his heels. He entered a room that always was ready for him, and in which a candle already was burning, and closed the door behind him, and Bernardo stretched his big form on the floor just outside it, to guard his master during the night. In the great living room Don Diego scarcely was missed. His father was frowning and twisting his mustache, for he would have had his son like other young men. In his youth he was remembering, he never left such a company early in the evening, and once again he sighed and wished that the saints had given him a son with red blood in his veins. The caviaros were singing now, joining in the chorus of a popular love song, and their discordant voices filled the big room. Don Alejandro smiled as he listened, for it brought his own youth back to him. They sprawled on chairs and benches on both sides of the long table, pounding it with their mugs as they sang, laughing boisterously now and then. Before this senor Zorro only here now, one of them cried, a voice from the doorway answered him. Senors, he is here. So ends Chapter 24. Chapter 25 of the Curse of Capistrano. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain, recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully. Chapter 25 A League is Formed. The song ceased, the laughter was stilled. They bunked their eyes and looked across the room. Senor Zorro stood just inside the door, having entered from the veranda without them knowing it. He wore his long cloak and his mask, and in one hand he held his accursed pistol, and its muzzle was pointed at the table. So, these are the manner of men who pursue Senor Zorro and hope to take him. He said, Make not a move, else led flies. Your weapons I perceive are in the corner. I could kill some of you and be gone before you could reach them. Tis he, tis he, a tipsy cabero was crying. Your noise may be heard a mile away, Senors. What a posse to go pursuing a man. Is this the way you attend to duty? Why have you stopped to make merry while Senor Zorro rides the highway? Give me my blade and let me stand before him, one cried. If I allowed you to have blade, you would be unable to stand, the highwayman answered. Think you there is one in this company who could fence with me now? There is one, cried Don Alejandro, in a loud voice, springing to his feet. I openly say that I have admired some of the things you have done, Senor, but now you have entered my house and are abusing my guests, and I must call you to account. I have no quarrel with you, Don Alejandro, and you have none with me, Senor Zorro said. I refuse to cross blades with you, and I am but telling these men some truths. By the saints I shall make you. A moment, Don Alejandro. Senors, this aged Don would fight me, and that would mean a wound or death for him. Will you allow it? Don Alejandro must not fight our battles, one of them cried. Then see that he sits in his place, and all honor to him. Don Alejandro started forward, but two of the caberos sprang before him and urged him to go back, saying that his honor was safe since he offered to combat. Raging, Don Alejandro complied. A worthy bunch of young blades, Senor Zorro sneered. You drink wine and make merry while injustice is all about you. Take your swords in hand and attack oppression. Live up to your noble names and your blue blood, Senors. Drive the thieving politicians from the land. Protect the frailies whose work gave us these broad acres. Be men, not drunken fashion-plates. Buy the saints, one cried and sprang to his feet. Back or I fire. I have not come here to fight you in Don Alejandro's house. I respect him too much for that. I have come to tell you these truths concerning yourselves. Your families can make or break a governor. Band yourselves together in a good cause, caberos, and make some use of your lives. You would do it were you not afraid. You seek adventure? Here is adventure aplenty, fighting injustice. Buy the saints, it would be a lark, one cried an answer. Look upon it as a lark if it pleases you. Yet you would be doing some good. Would the politicians dare stand against you, science of the most powerful families? Band yourselves together and give yourselves a name. Make yourselves fear the length and breadth of the land. It would be treason. It is not treason to down a tyrant, caberos. Is it that you are afraid? Buy the saints no, they cried in chorus. Then make your stand. You would lead us? See, Seniors. But stay, are you of good blood? I am a cabiero, of blood as good as any here, Senors Oral told them. Your name, where resides your family? Those things must remain secrets for the present. I have given you my word. Your face? Must remain masked for the time being, Seniors. They had lurched to their feet now and were acclaiming him wildly. Say, one cried, this is an imposition upon Don Alejandro. He may not be in sympathy, and we are planning and plotting in his house. I am in sympathy, caberos, and give you my support, Don Alejandro said. Their cheers filled the great room. None could stand against them if Don Alejandro Vega was with them. Not even the governor himself would dare oppose them. It is a bargain, they cried. We shall call ourselves the Avengers. We shall ride El Camino Real and proved hairs to those who rob honest men and mistreat natives. We shall drive the thieving politicians out. And then you shall be caberos in truth. Nights protecting the weak, Senors Oral said. Never shall you repent this decision, Senors. I lead and I give you loyalty and expect as much. Also, I expect obedience to orders. What shall we do? They cried. Let this remain a secret. In the morning returned to Reina de Los Angeles. And say you did not find Senors Oral. Say rather that you did not catch him, which will be the truth. Be ready to band yourselves together and ride. I shall send word when the time arrives. In what manner? I know you all. I shall get word to one and he can inform the others. It is agreed? Agreed. They shouted. Then I will leave you here and now. You are to remain in this room and none is to try to follow me. It is a command. Buenas noches, caberos. He bowed before them, swung the door open, and darted through it and slammed it shut behind him. They could hear the clatter of a horse's hooves on the driveway, and then they raised their wine mugs and drank to their new league for the suppression of swindlers and thieves and to Senors Oral, the curse of Capistrano, and to Don Alejandro Vega, somewhat sobered by the agreement they had made and what it meant. They sat down again and began speaking of wrongs that should be righted, each of them knowing half a dozen. And Don Alejandro Vega sat in one corner by himself, a grief-stricken man, because his only son was asleep in the house and had not read blood enough to take a part in such an undertaking, when by all rights he should be one of the leaders. As if to add to his misery, Don Diego at that moment came slowly into the room, rubbing his eyes and yawning and looking as if he had been disturbed. It is impossible for a man to sleep in this house tonight, he said. Give me a mug of wine, and I shall take my place with you. Why was the cheering? Senor Zorro has been here. His father began. The highway man, been here? By the saints. It is as much as a man can endure. Sit down, my son. Don Alejandro urged. Certain things have come to pass. There will be a chance now for you to show what sort of blood flows in your veins. Don Alejandro's manner was very determined. So ends Chapter 25. Chapter 26 of The Curse of Capistrano. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully. Chapter 26. An Understanding. The remainder of the night was spent by the Caballeros in loud boasts of what they intended doing and in making plans to be submitted to Senor Zorro for his approval, and, though they appeared to look upon this thing as a lark and a means to adventure, yet there was an undercurrent of seriousness in their manner, for they knew well the state of the times and realized that things were not as they should be, and in reality they were exponents of fairness to all. They had thought of these things often, but had made no move because they had not been banded together and had no leader, and each young Caballero waited for another to start the thing. But now this Senor Zorro had struck at the psychological moment and things could be done. Don Diego was informed of the state of affairs and his father informed him likewise that he was to play a part and prove himself a man. Don Diego fumed considerably and declared that such a thing would cause his death, yet he would do it for his father's sake. Early in the morning the Caballeros ate a meal that Don Alejandro caused to be prepared, and then they started back to reign of day Los Angeles, Don Diego riding with them at his father's order. Nothing was to be said about their plans. They were to get recruits from the remainder of the thirty who had set out in pursuit of Senor Zorro. Some would join them readily they knew, while others were the governor's men pure and simple and would have to be kept in the dark concerning the thing contemplated. They wrote leisurely, for which Don Diego remarked that he was grateful. Bernardo was still following him on the mule, and was a little chagrined because Don Diego had not remained longer at his father's house. Bernardo knew something momentous was being planned, but could not guess what, of course, and wished that he was like other men and could hear and speak. When they reached the plaza they found that the other two parties already were there, saying that they had not come up with the highwayman. Some declared that they had seen him in the distance, and one that he had fired a pistol at him, at which the Caballeros who had been at Don Alejandro's put their tongues in their cheeks and looked at one another in a peculiar manner. Don Diego left his companions and hurried to his house, where he donned fresh clothing and refreshed himself generally. He sent Bernardo about his business, which was to sit in the kitchen and await his master's call, and then he ordered his carriage around. That carriage was one of the most gorgeous along El Camino Real, and why Don Diego had purchased it had always been a mystery. There were some who said he did it to show his wealth, while others declared a manufacturer's agent had worried him so much that Don Diego had given him the order to be rid of him. Don Diego came from his house dressed in his best, but he did not get into the carriage. Again, there was a tumult in the plaza, and into it rode Sergeant Pedro Gonzales and his troopers. The man Captain Ramon had sent after them had overtaken them easily, for they had been riding slowly and had not covered many miles. Ha! Don Diego, my friend, Gonzales cried. Still living in this turbulent world? From necessity, Don Diego replied, did you capture this senorzoro? The pretty bird escaped us, Cabillero. It appears that he turned toward San Gabriel that night, while we went chasing him toward Pala. Ah, well, it is nothing to make a small mistake. Our revenge shall be the greater when we find him. What do you know, my Sergeant? My men refreshed themselves, and then we ride toward San Gabriel. It is said the highway man is in that vicinity, though some thirty young men of blood failed to find him last night after he caused the magistrato to be whipped. No doubt he hid himself in the brush, and chuckled when the Cabilleros rode by. May your horse have speed and your sword arm strength, Don Diego said, and got into his carriage. Two magnificent horses were hitched to the carriage, and a native coachman in rich livery drove them. Don Diego stretched back on the cushions and half closed his eyes as the carriage started. The driver went across the plaza and turned into the highway and started toward the hacienda of Don Carlos Pulido. Sitting on his veranda, Don Carlos saw the gorgeous carriage approaching, and growled low down in his throat, and then got up and hurried into the house to face his wife and daughter. Senorita, Don Diego comes, he said. I have spoken words regarding the young man, and I trust that you have given heed to them as a dutiful daughter should. Then he turned and went out to the veranda again, and the senorita rushed into her room and threw herself upon a couch to weep. The saints knew she wished that she could feel some love for Don Diego and take him for a husband, for it would help her father's fortunes, but she felt that she could not. Why did not the man act the cabillero? Why did he not exhibit a certain measure of common sense? Why did he not show that he was a young man bursting with health, instead of acting like an aged Don with one foot in the grave? Don Diego got from the carriage and waved to the driver to continue to the stable yard. He greeted Don Carlos languidly, and Don Carlos was surprised to note that Don Diego had a guitar beneath one arm. He put the guitar down on the floor, removed his sombrero, and sighed. I have been out to see my father, he said. Ha! Don Alejandro is well, I hope. He is in excellent health, as usual. He has instructed me to persist in my suit for the senorita lolita's hand. If I do not win me a wife within a certain time, he says, he will give his fortune to the Franciscans when he passes away. Indeed. He said it, and my father is not a man to waste his words. Don Carlos, I must win the senorita. I know of no other young woman who would be as acceptable to my father as a daughter-in-law. A little wooing Don Diego, I beg of you. Be not so matter of fact, I pray. I have decided to woo as other men, though it no doubt will be much of a bore. How would you suggest that I start? It is difficult to give advice in such a case. Don Carlos replied, trying desperately to remember how he had done it when he had courted Dona Catalina. A man really should be experienced, else be a man to whom such things come naturally. I fear that I am neither, Don Diego said, sighing again and raising tired eyes to Don Carlos's face. It might be an excellent thing to regard the senorita as if you adored her. Say nothing about marriage at first, but speak rather of love. Try to talk in low, rich tones, and say those meaningless nothings in which a young woman can find a world of meaning. Tis a gentle art, saying one thing and meaning another. I fear that it is beyond me, Don Diego said, yet I must try, of course. I may see the senorita now. Don Carlos went to the doorway and called his wife and daughter, and the former smiled upon Don Diego in encouragement, and the latter smiled also, yet with fear and trembling. For she had given her heart to the unknown senorzoro, and could love no other man, and could not wed where she did not love, not even to save her father from poverty. Don Diego conducted the senorita to a bench at one end of the veranda, and started to talk of things in general, plucking at the strings of his guitar as he did so, while Don Carlos and his wife removed themselves to the other end of the veranda and hoped that things would go well. Senorita Lolita was glad that Don Diego did not speak of marriage as he had done before. Instead, he told of what had happened in the pueblo, a fray Felipe's whipping, and of how senorzoro had punished the magistrado, and fought a dozen men and made his escape. Despite his air of langer, Don Diego spoke in an interesting manner, and the senorita found herself liking him more than before. She told, too, of how he had gone to his father's hacienda, and of how the cabieros had spent the night there, drinking and making merry. But he said nothing of senorzoro's visit, and the league that had been formed, having taken his oath not to do so. My father threatens to disinherit me if I do not get my wife within a specified time, Don Diego said then. Would you like to see me lose my father's estate, senorita? Certainly not, she replied. There are many girls who would be proud to wed you, Don Diego. But not you? Certainly I would be proud. But can a girl help it if her heart does not speak? Would you wish a wife who did not love you? Think of the long years you would have to spend beside her, and no love to make them indurable. You do not think, then, that you ever could learn to love me, senorita? Suddenly the girl faced him and spoke in lower tones and earnestly. You are a cabillero of the blood, senor. I may trust you? To death, senorita! When I have something to tell you, and I ask that you let it remain your secret, it is an explanation in a way. Proceed, senorita. If my heart bade me do so, nothing would please me more than to become your wife, senor, for I know that it would mend my father's fortunes. But perhaps I am too honest to wed where I do not love. There is one great reason why I cannot love you. There is some other man in your heart? You have guessed it, senor. My heart is filled with his image. You would not want me for wife in such case. My parents do not know. You must keep my secret. I swear by the saints that I have spoken the truth. The man is worthy? I feel sure that he is cabillero. Did he prove to be otherwise I should grieve my life away, yet I never could love another man. You understand now? I understand fully, senorita. May I express the hope that you will find him worthy and in time the man of your choice? I knew you would be the true cabillero. And if things should go amiss and you need a friend, command me, senorita. My father must not suspect at the present time. We must let him think that you still seek me, and I will pretend to be thinking more of you than before. And gradually you can cease your visits. I understand, senorita, yet that leaves me in bad case. I have asked your father for permission to woo you, and if I go to wooing another girl now, I will have him about my ears in just anger. And if I do not woo another girl, I shall have my own father upbraiding me. It is a sorry state. Perhaps it will not be for long, senor. Ha! I have it. What does a man do when he is disappointed in love? He mopes. He pulls a long face. He refuses to partake of the actions and excitements of the times. Senorita, you have saved me in a way. I shall languish because you do not return my love. Then men will think they know the reason when I dream in the sun and meditate, instead of riding and fighting like a fool. I shall be allowed to go my way in peace, and there shall be a romantic glamour cast about me. An excellent thought. Senorita, you are incorrigible. The senorita, Lolita, exclaimed, laughing. Don Carlos and Dona Catalina heard that laugh, looked around, and then exchanged quick glances. Don Diego Vega was getting along famously with the senorita, they thought. Then Don Diego continued the deception by playing his guitar and singing a verse of a song that had to do with bright eyes and love. Don Carlos and his wife glanced at each other again, this time in apprehension, and wished that he would stop, for the scion of the vegas had many superiors as musician and vocalist, and they feared that he might lose what ground he had gained in the senorita's estimation. But if Lolita thought little of the Caballero's singing, she said nothing to that effect, and she did not act displeased. There was some more conversation, and just before the siesta hour, Don Diego bade them Buenos Dias and rode away in his gorgeous carriage. From the turn in the driveway he waved back at them. So ends Chapter 26 Chapter 27 of the Curse of Capistrano. This Librivox recording is in the public domain, recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully. Chapter 27 Orders for Arrest. Captain Ramon's career, sent north with the letter for the Governor, had dreams of gay times in San Francisco de Asis before returning to his Presidio at Raina de Los Angeles. He knew a certain senorita there whose beauty caused his heart to burn. So he rode like a fiend after leaving his commandante's office, changed mounts at San Fernando and at Hacienda along the way, and galloped into Santa Barbara a certain evening just at dusk, with the intention of changing horses again, getting meat and bread and wine at the Presidio and rushing on his way. And at Santa Barbara his hopes of basking in the senorita's smiles at San Francisco de Asis were cruelly shattered. For before the door of the Presidio there was a gorgeous carriage that made Don Diego's appear like a corrida, and a score of horses were tethered there, and more troopers than were stationed at Santa Barbara regularly moved about the highway, laughing and justing with one another. The Governor was in Santa Barbara. His Excellency had left San Francisco de Asis some days before on a trip of inspection, and intended to go as far south as San Diego de Alcala, strengthening his political fences, rewarding his friends, and awarding punishment to his enemies. He had reached Santa Barbara an hour before, and was listening to the report of the commandante there, after which he intended remaining during the night with a friend. His troopers were to be given quarters at the Presidio, of course, and the journey was to continue on the morrow. Captain Ramon's courier had been told that the letter he carried was of the utmost importance, and so he hurried to the office of the commandante and entered it like a man of rank. I come from Captain Ramon, commandante at Raina de Los Angeles, with a letter of importance for his Excellency, he reported, standing stiffly at salute. The Governor grunted and took the letter and the commandante motioned for the courier to withdraw. His Excellency read the letter with speed, and when he had finished there was an unholy gleam in his eyes, and he twirled his mustache with every evidence of keen satisfaction, and then he read the letter again and frowned. He liked the thought that he could crush Don Carlos Pulido more, but he disliked to think that Senor Zorro, the man who had affronted him, was still at liberty. He got up and paced the floor for a time, and then whirled upon the commandante. I shall leave for the south at sunrise. My presence is urgently needed at Raina de Los Angeles. You will attend to things. Tell that courier he shall ride back with my escort. I go now to the house of my friend. And so in the morning the Governor started south, his escort of twenty picktroopers surrounding him, the courier in their midst. He traveled swiftly and on a certain day at mid-morning entered the plaza of Raina de Los Angeles unheralded. It was the same morning that Don Diego rode to the Pulido Hacienda in his carriage, taking his guitar with him. The cavalcade stopped before the tavern, and the fat landlord almost suffered an apoplexy because he had not been warned of the Governor's coming and was afraid he would enter the inn and find it in a dirty state. But the Governor made no effort to leave his carriage and enter the tavern. He was glancing around the square, observing many things. He never felt secure concerning the men of rank in this pueblo. He felt that he did not have the proper grip on them. Now he watched carefully as news of his arrival was spread and certain cabilleros hurried to the plaza to greet him and make him welcome. He noted those who appeared to be sincere, observed those who were in no particular haste to salute him, and noticed several that were absent. Business must receive his first attention, he told him, and he must hasten up to the Presidio. After that he would gladly be the guest of any of them. He accepted an invitation and ordered his driver to proceed. He was remembering Captain Ramon's letter, and he had not seen Don Diego Vega in the plaza. Sergeant Gonzales and his men were away pursuing Senor Zorro, of course, and so Captain Ramon himself was awaiting his excellency at the Presidio entrance and saluted him gravely and bowed low before him and ordered the commander of the escort to take charge of the place and police it, stationing guards in honor of the governor. He led his excellency to the private office, and the governor sat down. What is the latest news? he asked. My men are on the trail, excellency, but as I wrote, this pest of a Senor Zorro has friends. A legion of them I take it. My sergeant has reported that twice he found him with a band of followers. They must be broken up, killed off. The governor cried. A man of that sort always can get followers, and yet more followers, until he will be so strong that he can cause a serious trouble. Has he committed any further atrocities? He has, excellency. Yesterday a fray from San Gabriel was whipped for swindling. Senor Zorro caught the witnesses against him on the high road and whipped them almost to death, and then he rode into the pueblo just at dusk and had the magistrado whipped. My soldiers were away looking for him at the time. It appears that this Senor Zorro knows the movements of my force and always strikes where the troopers are not. Then spies are giving him warnings. It appears so, excellency. Last night some thirty young caballeros rode after him, but did not find track of the scoundrel. They returned this morning. Was Don Diego Vega with them? He did not ride out with them, but he returned with them. It seems that they picked him up at his father's hacienda. You perhaps guessed that I meant the vegas in my letter. I am convinced now, your excellency, that my suspicions in that quarter were unjust. This Senor Zorro even invaded Don Diego's house one night, while Don Diego was away. How is this? But Don Carlos Palido and his family were there. Ha! In Don Diego's house? What is the meaning of that? It is amusing, said Captain Ramon, laughing lightly. I have heard that Don Alejandro ordered Don Diego to get him a wife. The young man is not the sort to woo women. He is lifeless. I know the man. Proceed. So he rides straight away to the hacienda of Don Carlos and asks permission to pay his addresses to Don Carlos's only daughter. Senor Zorro was abroad, and Don Diego, going to his own hacienda on business, asked Don Carlos to come to the Pueblo with his family, where it would be safer and occupy his house until he returned. The Palidos could not refuse, of course, and Senor Zorro, it appears, followed them. Ha! Go on. It is laughable that Don Diego fetched them here to escape Senor Zorro's wrath, when in reality they are hand in glove with the highway man. Remember this Senor Zorro had been at the Palido Hacienda. We got word from a native and almost caught him there. He had been eating a meal. He was hiding in the closet, and while I was alone there and my men searching the trails, he came from the closet, ran me through the shoulder from behind, and escaped. The low scoundrel, the governor exclaimed, but do you think there will be a marriage between Don Diego and the Senorita Puellito? I imagine there be no worry in that regard, Excellency. I am of the opinion that Don Diego's father put a flee in his ear. He probably called Don Diego's attention to the fact that Don Carlos does not stand very high with your Excellency and that there are daughters of other men who do. At any rate, the Puellitos returned to their Hacienda after Don Diego's return. Don Diego called upon me here at the Presidio and appeared to be anxious that I would not think him a man of treason. I am glad to hear it. The Vegas are powerful. They never have been my warm friends, yet never have they raised hands against me, so I cannot complain. It is good sense to keep them friendly, if that be possible. But these Puellitos— Even the Senorita appears to be giving aid to this highway man, Captain Ramon said. She boasted to me of what she called his courage. She sneered at the soldiers. Don Carlos Puellito and some of the Freiles are protecting the man, giving him food and drink, hiding him, sending him news of the troopers' whereabouts. The Puellitos are hindering our efforts to capture the rogue. I would have taken steps, but I thought it best to inform you and await your decision. There can be but one decision in such a case, said the Governor loftily. There can be but one decision in such a case. No matter how good a man's blood may be or what his rank, he cannot be allowed to commit treason without suffering the consequences. I had thought that Don Carlos had learned his lesson, but it appears that he has not. Are any of your men in the Presidio? Some who are ill, Excellency. That courier of yours returned with my escort. Does he know the country well hereabouts? Certainly, Excellency. He has been stationed here for some time. Then he can act as guide. Send half my escort at once to the Hacienda of Don Carlos Puellito. Give them arrest the Don and fetch him to Carcel and incarcerate him there. That will be a blow to his high blood. I have had quite enough of these Puellitos. And the Hattidana who sneered at me, and the proud Senorita who scorned the troopers. Ha! It is a good thought. It will teach a lesson to all in this locality. Have them fetched to Carcel and incarcerate it also, the Governor said. So ends Chapter 27. Chapter 28 The Outrage Don Diego's carriage had just pulled up before his house when a squad of troopers went by it in a cloud of dust. He did not recognize any of them for men he had seen about the tavern. Ha! There are new soldiers on the trail of Senor Zoro. He asked a man standing near. They are part of the escort of the Governor, Cabillero. The Governor is here? He arrived but a short time ago, Cabillero, and has gone to the Presidio. I suppose they must have fresh news of this highway man to send them riding furiously through dust and sun like that. He appears to be an elusive rascal. By the Saints, had I been here when the Governor arrived, no doubt he would have put up at my house. Now some other Cabillero will have the honor of entertaining him. It is much to be regretted, and then Don Diego went into the house and the man who had heard him speak did not know whether to doubt the sincerity of that last remark. Led by the courier, who knew the way, the squad of troopers galloped swiftly along the high road and presently turned up the trail toward Don Carlos's house. They went at this business as they would have gone about capturing a desperado. As they struck the driveway, they scattered to left and right, tearing up Dona Catalina's flowerbeds and sending chickens squawking out of the way, and so surrounded the house in almost an instant of time. Don Carlos had been sitting on the veranda in his accustomed place, half in a dose, and he did not notice the advance of the troopers until he heard the beating of their horses' hooves. He got to his feet in alarm, wondering whether Senor Azor was in the vicinity again and the soldiers after him. Three dismounted in a cloud of dust before the steps, and the sergeant who commanded them made his way forward, slapping the dust from his uniform. You are Don Carlos Pulido? He asked in a loud voice. I have that honor, Senor. I have orders to place you under military arrest. Arrest! Don Carlos cried. Who gave such orders? His Excellency the Governor. He now is in Reina de Los Angeles, Senor. And the charge? Treason and aiding the enemies of the state. Pre-Posterous! Don Carlos cried. I am accused of treason when, though the victim of oppression, I have withheld my hand against those in power. What are the particulars of the charges? You will have to ask the magistrato that, Senor. I know nothing of the matter except that I am to arrest you. You wish me to accompany you? I demand it, Senor. I am a man of blood, a cabillero. I have my orders. So I cannot be trusted to appear at my place of trial. But perhaps the hearing is to be held immediately. So much the better. For all the quicker can I clear myself. We go to the Presidio. I go to the Presidio when this work is done. You go to Carcel, the sergeant said. To Carcel? Don Carlos screeched. You would dare. You would throw a cabillero into a filthy jail. You would place him where they keep insubordinate natives and common felons. I have my orders, Senor. You will prepare to accompany us at once. I must give my superintendent instructions regarding the management of the Hacienda. I'll go along with you, Senor. Don Carlos's face flamed purple. His hands clenched as he regarded the sergeant. Am I to be insulted with every word? He cried. Do you think I would run away like a criminal? I have my orders, Senor, the sergeant said. At least I may break this news to my wife and daughter without an outsider being at my shoulder. Your wife is Dona Catalina Pulido? Certainly. I am ordered to arrest her also, Senor. Scum! Don Carlos cried. You would put hands on a lady? You would remove her from her house? It is my orders. She too is charged with treason and with aiding the enemies of the state. By the saints, this is too much. I shall fight against you and your men as long as there is breath in my body. And that will not be for long, Don Carlos, if you attempt to give battle. I am but carrying out my orders. My beloved wife placed under arrest like a native wench, and on such a charge. What are you to do with her, Sergeant? She goes to carcel. My wife in that foul place? Is there no justice in this land? She is a tender lady of noble blood. Enough of this, Senor. My orders are my orders, and I carry them out as instructed. I am a soldier and I obey. Now Dona Catalina came running to the veranda, for she had been listening to the conversation just inside the door. Her face was white, but there was a look of pride in it. She feared Don Carlos might make an attack on the soldier, and she feared he would be wounded or slain if he did, and knew that at least it could only double the charge held against him. You have heard? Don Carlos asked. I have heard, my husband. It is but more persecution. I am too proud to argue the point with these common soldiers, who are but doing as they have been commanded. A palido can be a palido, my husband, even in a foul carcel. But the shame of it, Don Carlos cried. What does it all mean? Where will it end? And our daughter will be here alone with the servants. We have no relatives, no friends. Your daughter is Senorita Lolita Palido? The sergeant asked. Then do not grieve, Senor, for you will not be separated. I have an order for the arrest of your daughter also. The charge? The same, Senor, and you would take her to carcel. An innocent high-born gentle girl? My orders, Senor, said the sergeant. May the saints bless the man who issued them, Don Carlos cried. They have taken my wealth and lands. They have heaped shame upon me and mine. But thank the saints, they cannot break our pride. And then Don Carlos's head went erect, and his eyes flashed. And he took his wife by the arm, and turned about to enter the house, with the sergeant at his heels. He broke the news to the Senorita Lolita, who stood as if stricken dumb for an instant, and then burst into a torrent of tears. And then the pride of the palitos came to her, and she dried her eyes, and curled her pretty lips with scorn at the big sergeant, and pulled aside her skirts when he stepped near. This brought the Carita before the door, and Don Carlos and his wife and daughter got into it, and the journey of shame to the Pueblo began. Their hearts might be bursting with grief, but not one of the palitos showed it. Their heads were held high. They looked straight ahead. They pretended not to hear the low taunts of the soldiers. They passed others who were crowded off the road by the troopers, and who looked with wonder at those in the Carita, but they did not speak. Some watched in sorrow, and some grinned at their plight, according to whether those who passed were of the Governor's party or of the honest folk who abhorred injustice. And so finally they came to the edge of Reina de Los Angeles, and there they met fresh insult. For his Excellency had determined that the palitos should be humbled to the dust, and he had sent some of his troopers to spread news of what was being done, and to give coins to natives and peons if they would jeer the prisoners when they arrived. For the Governor wished to teach a lesson that would prevent other noble families from turning against him, and wished it to appear that the palitos were hated by all classes alike. At the edge of the plaza they were met by the mob. There were cruel jeers and jests, some of which no innocent senorita should have heard. Don Carlos's face was red with wrath. But there were tears in Dona Catalina's eyes, and senorita Lolita's lips were trembling, but they gave no other sign that they heard. The drive around the plaza to the car cell was made slow purposely. At the door of the inn there was a throng of rascals who had been drinking wine at the expense of the Governor, and these added to the din. One man threw mud and it splashed on Don Carlos's breast, but he refused to notice it. He had one arm around his wife, the other around his daughter, as if to give them what protection he could, and he was looking straight ahead. There were some men of blood who witnessed the scene, yet took no part in the tumult. Some of them were as old as Don Carlos, and this thing brought to their hearts fresh yet passive hatred of the Governor. And some were young, with the blood running hot in their veins, and they looked upon the suffering face of Dona Catalina and imagined her their own mother, and upon the lovely face of the senorita and imagined her their sister or betrothed. And some of these men glanced at one another furtively, and though they did not speak they were wondering the same thing. Whether Senor Azor would hear of this, and whether he would send word around for the members of the new league to gather. The Corita stopped before the car cell finally, the mob of jerry natives and peon surrounding it. The soldiers made some pretense of holding them back, and the sergeant dismounted and forced Don Carlos and his wife and daughter to step to the ground. Uncoothed and intoxicated men jostled them as they walked up the steps to the door. More mud was thrown, and some of it spattered upon Dona Catalina's gown. But if the mob expected an outburst on the part of the aged Cabillero, it was disappointed. Don Carlos held his head high, ignoring those who were striving to torment him, and so led his ladies to the door. The sergeant beat against it with the heavy hilt of his sword, and aperture was opened, and in it appeared the evil grinning face of the jailer. What have we here? He demanded. Three prisoners charged with treason, the sergeant replied. The door was thrown open. There came a last burst of jeers from the mob, and then the prisoners were inside, and the door had been closed and bolted again. The jailer led the way along an evil-smelling hall and threw open another door. In with you, he directed. The three prisoners were thrust inside, and this door was closed and barred. They blinked their eyes in the semi-gloom. Gradually they made out two windows, some benches, some human derelicts sprawled against the walls. They had not even been given the courtesy of a clean private room. Don Carlos and his wife and daughter had been thrust in with the scum of the pueblo, with drunkards and thieves and dishonored women and insulting natives. They sat down on a bench in one corner of the room, as far from the others as possible, and then Dona Catalina and her daughter gave way to tears. And tears streamed down the face of the aged Don as he tried to comfort them. I would to the saints that Don Diego Vega were only my son-in-law now, the Don breathed. His daughter pressed his arm. Perhaps, my father, a friend will come, she whispered. Perhaps the evil man who caused this suffering will be punished. For it seemed to the senorita that a vision of Senorzoa had appeared before her, and she had great faith in the man to whom she had given her love. So ends Chapter 28 Chapter 29 of the Curse of Capistrano. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully. Chapter 29 Don Palito Feels Ill One hour after Don Carlos Palito and his ladies had been incarcerated in the car cell, Don Diego Vega, dressed most fastidiously, made his way slowly on foot, up the slope to the prosidio to make his call on his excellency the governor. He walked with swinging stride, gazing both to right and left as if at the hills in the distance, and once he stopped to observe a blossom that bloomed beside the path. His rapier was at his side, his most fashionable one with its jeweled hilt, and in his right hand he carried a handkerchief of flimsy lace, which he wafted this way and that like a dandy, and now and then touched it to the tip of his nose. He bowed ceremoniously to two or three caviaros who passed him, but spoke to none beyond the necessary words of greeting, and they did not seek conversation with him. For remembering that they had thought Don Diego Vega was courting the daughter of Don Carlos, they wondered how he would take the matter of her imprisonment along with her father and mother. They did not care to discuss the matter, for their own feelings were high, and they feared they might be betrayed into utterances that might be termed treasonable. Don Diego came to the front door of the prosidio, and the sergeant in charge called the soldiers to attention, giving Vega the salute due his station in life. Don Diego answered it with a wave of his hand and a smile, and went on to the Comandante's office, where the governor was receiving such caviaros as cared to call and express their loyalty. He greeted his excellency with carefully chosen words, bowed over his hand, and then took the chair the governor was kind enough to indicate. Don Diego Vega, the governor said, I am doubly glad that you have called upon me today. For in these times a man who holds high office would know his friends. I should have called sooner, but I was away from my house at the time you arrived, Don Diego said. You contemplate remaining long and reign a day Los Angeles, Excellency? Until this highway man, known as Senor Zoro, is either slain or taken, the governor said. By the saints, am I never to hear the last of that row, Don Diego cried. I have heard of nothing else for these many days. I go to spend an evening with a fray and in comes a crowd of soldiers chasing this Senor Zoro. I repair to the hacienda of my father to get me peace and quiet and along comes a crowd of caviaros seeking news of Senor Zoro. These are turbulent times. A man whose nature inclines him to music and the poets has no right to exist in the present age. It desolates me that you have been annoyed, the governor said, laughing. But I hope to have the fellow soon, and so put an end to that particular annoyance. Captain Ramon has sent for his big sergeant and his troopers to return. I brought an escort of twenty, and so we have ample men to run down this cursive Capistrano when next he makes his appearance. Let us hope it will end as it should, said Don Diego. A man in high office has many things with which to contend, the governor went on. Look at what I was forced to do this day. I am called upon to put in prison a man of good blood and his lady wife and tender daughter, but the state must be protected. I suppose you mean Don Carlos Polito and his family. I do, Cabiero. Now that it is called to my mind again, I must say a few words regarding that, Don Diego said. I am not sure that my honor is not involved. Why, Cabiero? How can that be? My father has ordered that I get me a wife and set up my establishment properly. Some days ago I requested of Don Carlos Polito permission to pay my addresses to his daughter. Ha! I understand, but you are not the betrothed of the young lady? Not yet, Excellency. Then your honor is not involved, Don Diego, that I can see. But I have been paying court to her. You may thank the saints that had gone no further, Don Diego. Think how it would look if you were allied with this family now. As for getting you a wife, come north with me to San Francisco de Aces, Cabiero, where the senoritas are far more lovely than here in your Southland. Look over those of good blood, and let me know your preference, and I'll guarantee that the lady will listen to your suit and accept your hand in name. And I can guarantee also that she will be of a loyal family with which it will be no shame to make a contract. We shall get you a wife of the proper sort, Cabiero. If you will pardon me, is it not taking stern measures to have Don Carlos and his ladies thrown into the car cell? Don Diego asked, flicking dust from his sleeve. I find it necessary, senor. Do you think it will add to your popularity, Excellency? Whether it does or not, the state must be served. Men of good blood hate to see such a thing, and there may be murmurings. Don Diego warned. I should hate to see your Excellency make a wrong step at this juncture. What would you have me do? The governor asked. Place Don Carlos and the ladies under arrest, if you will, but do not incarcerate them. It is unnecessary. They will not run away. Bring them to trial as gentle folk should be brought to trial. You are bold, Cabiero. By the saints, am I talking too much? It were better to leave these matters to the few of us who are trusted with attention to them, the governor said. I can understand, of course, how it irks a man of good blood to see a Don thrown into a car cell and to see his ladies treated likewise. But in such a case as this. I have not heard the nature of the case. Don Diego said. Ah, perhaps you may change your mind when you learn it. You have been speaking of this Senor Zorro. What if I tell you that the highway man is being shielded and protected and fed by Don Carlos Palido? That is astonishing. And that the Dona Catalina is a party to the treason, and that the lovely Senorita has seen fit to talk treasonably and dip her pretty hands into a conspiracy against the state. This is past belief. Don Diego cried. Some nights ago, Senor Zorro was at the Palido Hacienda. Warning was fetched to the Comandante by a native who was loyal. Don Carlos aided the bandit in tricking the soldiers, hid him in a closet. And when Captain Ramon was there alone, this highway man stepped from the closet and attacked him treacherously and wounded him. By the saints. And while you were gone and the Palitos were your house guests, Senor, Senor Zorro was in your house speaking to the Senorita when the Comandante walked in upon them. And the Senorita grasped Captain Ramon by the arm and annoyed him until this Senor Zorro had made good his escape. It is past comprehension, Don Diego explained. Captain Ramon has placed before me a hundred such items of suspicion. Can you wonder now that I had them placed in car cell? Did I merely have them put under arrest? This Senor Zorro would combine forces with them and aid them to escape. And your intentions, Excellency? I shall keep them in car cell while my troopers run down this highway man. I shall force him to confess and implicate them, and then they shall have a trial. These are turbulent times, Don Diego complained. As a loyal man, and I hope and admire of mine, you should hope to see foes of the state confounded. I do, most sincerely I do. All real foes of the state should receive punishment. I am joyed to hear you say that, Caviaro. The governor cried, and he reached across the table and grasped Don Diego fervently by the hand. There was some more talk that amounted to nothing, and then Don Diego took his leave, for there were other men waiting to see the governor. After he had left the office, the governor looked across to Captain Ramon and smiled. You are right, Comandante, he said. Such a man could not be a traitor. It would tire him too much to think reasonable thoughts. What a man! He must be enough to drive that old fire eater of a father of his insane. Don Diego made his way slowly down the hill, greeting those he passed, and stopping again to regard the little flowers that blossomed by the wayside. At the corner of the plaza, he met a young Caviaro who was glad to call him friend, one of the small band of men who had spent the night at Don Alejandro's hacienda. Ha, Don Diego, a fair day to you, he cried, and then he lowered his voice and stepped nearer. Has by any chance the man we call leader of our League of Avengers sent you a message this day? By the bright blue sky, no, Don Diego said. Why should the man? This pulido business, it seems an outrage. Some of us have been wondering whether our leader does not intend to take a hand in it. We have been anticipating a message. By the saints, oh, I trust not, Don Diego said. I could not endure an adventure of any sort tonight. I err, my headaches, and I fear I am going to have a fever. I shall have to see an apothecary about it. There are shiverings up and down my spine also. Is not that a symptom? During the siesta hour I was bothered with a pain in my left leg just above the knee. It must be the weather. Let us hope that it will not result seriously. His friend laughed and hurried on across the plaza. So ends Chapter 29. Chapter 30 of the Curse of Capistrano. This LibriVox recording is in a public domain. Recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully. Chapter 30, The Sign of the Fox. An hour after dusk that night, a native sought out one of the cabilleros with the intelligence that a gentleman wished to speak to him immediately, and that this gentleman was evidently wealthy since he had given the native a coin for carrying the message, when he might just as well have given nothing more than a cuff alongside the head. Also that the mysterious gentleman would be waiting along the path that ran toward the San Gabriel trail, and to be sure that the cabillero would come, he had bade the native say that there was a fox in the neighborhood. A fox. Zorro, fox, the cabillero thought, and then he ruined the native forever by giving him another coin. He went to the rendezvous immediately, and there he found Senor Zorro sitting his big horse, his face masked, and the cloak wrapped around his body. You will pass the word, cabillero, Senor Zorro said. I would have all men who are loyal and wish to do so meet at midnight in the little valley beyond the hill. You know the place? So I shall be waiting. Then Senor Zorro wheeled his horse and dashed away in the darkness, and the cabillero went back to the pueblo and passed the word to those men he knew could be depended upon, and urged upon them that they pass it to others of the league. One went to Don Diego's house, but was told by the dispensary that Don Diego had complained of a fever and had retired to his chamber, and had left word that he would flay alive any servant who dared enter the room unless he called. Near the hour of midnight, the cabilleros began slipping from the pueblo one at a time, each upon the back of his best horse, and each armed with sword and pistol. Each man had a mask that could be put over his features instantly, for that had been decided upon at Don Alejandro's hacienda, among other things. The pueblo was in darkness, save that there were lights in the tavern, where some of his excellencies' escort made merry with the local troopers. For Sergeant Pedro Gonzales had returned with his men just before nightfall, glad to be back from a fruitless chase and hoping that the next scent would be warmer. Those in the tavern had gone down the hill from the prosidio, some leaving their horses there without saddles or bridles on, and they had no thought of an encounter with Senor Zorro this night. The fat landlord was kept busy, for the soldiers from the north had coins in their purses and were willing to spend them. Sergeant Gonzales, holding the attention of the company as usual, was detailing at length what he would do to this Senor Zorro if the saints were kind enough to let them meet and grant him his blade in his hand. There were lights in the big lounging room of the prosidio too, for few of the soldiers had retired, and there were lights in the house where his excellency was a guest, but the remainder of the pueblo was in darkness, and the people slept. In the car cell, there was no light at all except one candle burning in the office, where a sleepy man was on guard. The jailer was in his bed, prisoners moaned on the hard benches in the prison room. Don Carlos Polito stood before a window looking up at the stars, and his wife and daughter huddled on a bench beside him, unable to sleep in such surroundings. The cabilleros found Senor Zorro waiting for them as he had said he would be, but he remained aloof, speaking scarcely a word until all were present. All are here, he asked then. All except Don Diego Vega, one replied. He is ill with a fever, Senor, and all the cabilleros chuckled, for they had an idea the fever was caused by cowardice. I take it that you know something of what is in my mind, Senor Zorro said. We know what has happened to Don Carlos Polito and the ladies of his family. We know they are innocent of any treason, and were they not, they should not have been taken to Carcel and incarcerated with common felons and drunkards. Think of those gentle ladies in such surroundings. Think of it, because Don Carlos has the ill will of the governor. Is it the sense of the league that something be done in this matter? If it is not, then I will do something by myself. Rescue them, a cabillero said, and the others growled their approval. Here was a chance for risk and adventure and an opportunity to do a good deed. We must enter the pueblo quietly, Senor Zorro said. There is no moon, and we will not be observed if we use caution. We shall approach the car cell from the south. Each man will have his task to do. Some will surround the building to give notice if any approach it. Others must be ready to beat off the soldiers if they respond to an alarm. Others will affect an entrance to the car cell with me and rescue the prisoners. It is an excellent plan, one said. That is but a small part of it. Don Carlos is a proud man, and if given time for reflection, may refuse to be rescued. We can not allow that. Certain ones will seize him and take him from the place. Others will attend to the Dona Catalina. I will undertake to care for the Senorita. Now we have them free, and then what? He heard murmurs, but no distinct reply, so he continued to outline the plan. All will ride to the highway just below this place, he said. At that point we shall scatter. Those who have the Dona Catalina in charge will hasten with her to the hacienda of Don Alejandro Vega, where she can be hidden if necessary, and where the governor's soldiers will hesitate before entering and seizing her. Those who have Don Carlos in charge will take the road to Pala, and at a certain point some 10 miles from this pueblo they will be met by two natives of understanding who will give them the sign of the fox. The natives will take Don Carlos in charge and care for him. When these things are done, each cabillero will ride to his home quietly and alone, telling what story pleases him and using great caution. I shall have conducted the Senorita to a safe place by that time. She shall be given into the keeping of old Frey Felipe, a man we can trust, and he will hide her if he must. Then we will watch to see what the governor does. What can he do, a cabillero asked. Have them searched for, of course. We must await developments, Senor Zorro said. Are all now ready? They assured him that they were, and so he named the men for each task, and then they left the little valley and rode slowly and cautiously around the little town and approached it from the south. They heard the soldiers shouting and singing in the tavern, saw the lights in the prosidio and crept toward the car cell quietly, riding two by two. In a short time it had been surrounded by quiet, determined men, and then Senor Zorro and four others dismounted and went to the door of the building. So ends Chapter 30. Chapter 31 of the Curse of Capistrano. This Librivox recording is in the public domain, recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully. Chapter 31, The Rescue. Senor Zorro knocked upon the door with the hilt of his sword. They heard a man gasp inside, presently heard his steps on the stone flooring, and after a little time, light showed through the cracks and the aperture was opened and the sleepy face of the guard appeared. What is wanted, he asked. Senor Zorro thrust the muzzle of his pistol through the aperture and into the man's face, and in such fashion that the little door could not be closed. Open, if you value your life. Open and make not the slightest sound, Senor Zorro commanded. What, what is this? Senor Zorro is talking to you. By the saints. Open, fool, or you die instantly. Ah, I'll open the door. Do not shoot, good Senor Zorro. I am only a poor guard and not a fighting man. I pray you do not shoot. Open quickly. As soon as I can fit key to lock, good Senor Zorro. They heard him rattling the keys. Presently one was turned in the lock and the heavy door was thrown open. Senor Zorro and his four companions rushed inside and slammed and fastened the door again. The guard found the muzzle of a pistol pressed against the side of his head and would have knelt before these five masked and terrible men, only one of them caught him by the hair and held him up. Where sleeps the keeper of this infernal hole? Senor Zorro demanded. In yonder room, Senor. And where have you put Don Carlos Palido and his ladies? In the common prison room, Senor. Senor Zorro motioned to the others, strode across the room and threw open the door to the jailer's chamber. The man already was sitting up in bed, having heard the sounds in the other room, and he blinked in fright when he beheld the highwayman by the light of the candle. Do not make a move, Senor. Zorro warned. One screech and you are a dead man. Senor Zorro confronts you. May the saints preserve me. Where are the keys to the prison rooms? On that table, Senor. Senor Zorro picked them up and then whirled upon the jailer again and rushed toward him. Lie down, he commanded. On your face, scoundrel. Senor Zorro tore strips from a blanket and bound the jailer's hands and feet and made a gag which he affixed. To escape death, he said then, it is necessary for you to remain exactly as you are now, without making a sound, for some time after we have left the car cell. I shall leave it to your own judgment to decide the length of time. Then he hurried back into the main office, beckoned the others, and led the way down the evil smelling hall. Which door, he asked the guard. The second one, Senor. They hurried to it and Senor Zorro unlocked it and threw it open. He forced the guard to hold a candle high above his head. A gasp of pity came from beneath the highway man's mask. He saw the age of dawn standing by the window, saw the two women crouched on the bench, saw the vile companions they had in this miserable place. Now may heaven forgive the governor, he cried. Senorita Lolita looked up in alarm and then gave a glad cry. Don Carlos whirled at the highway man's words. Senor Zorro! He gasped. The same, Don Carlos. I have come with some friends to rescue you. I cannot allow it, Senor. I shall not run away from what is in store for me. And it would avail me little to have you do the rescuing. I am accused now of harboring you, I understand. How will it look then, if you affect my escape? There is no time for argument, Senor Zorro said. I am not alone in this, but have twenty-six men with me. And a man of your blood and gentle ladies such as those of your family shall not spend an entire night in this miserable whole if we can prevent it. Caballeros The last word was one of command. Two of the caballeros threw themselves upon Don Carlos, subdued him quickly, and half carried him into the hall and along it toward the office. Two others grasped the Dona Catalina by the arms as gently as they could, and so carried her along. Senor Zorro bowed before the Senorita and extended a hand, which she clasped gladly. You must trust me, Senorita, he said. To love is to trust, Senor. All things have been arranged. Ask no questions, but do as I bid. Come. He threw an arm around her and so led her from the prison room, leaving the door open behind him. If some of the miserable wretches there could win through and out of the building, Senor Zorro had no wish to prevent them. More than half of them he judged were there because of prejudice or injustice. Don Carlos was causing an unearthly clamor, shouting that he refused to be rescued, and that he would stay and face the governor at the trial and show the blood that was in him. Dona Catalina was whimpering a bit because of fright, but made no resistance. They reached the office and Senor Zorro ordered the guard to a corner of it, with instructions to remain there quietly for some time after they had gone, and then one of the caballeros threw open the outside door. There was a tumult outside at the moment. Two soldiers had approached with a fellow caught stealing at the tavern and the caballeros had stopped them. One glance at the masked faces had been enough to tell the troopers that here was something wrong. A soldier fired a pistol and a caballero answered the fire, neither hitting the mark. But the shooting was enough to attract the attention of those in the tavern and also of the guards at the Presidio. Troopers at the Presidio were awakened immediately and took the places of the guards. The latter mounted and spurred down the hill to ascertain the cause of the sudden tumult at that hour of the night. Sergeant Pedro Gonzales and others hurried from the tavern. Senor Zorro and his companions found themselves facing a resistance when they least expected it. The jailer had gathered courage enough to work himself free of gag and bonds, and he shrieked through a window of his chamber that prisoners were being rescued by Senor Zorro. His shriek was understood by Sergeant Gonzales, who screeched for his men to follow him and earn a part of his Excellencies' reward. But the caballeros had their three rescued prisoners on horseback, and they spurred through the gathering throng, and so dashed across the plaza and toward the highway. Shots flew about them, but no man was hit. Don Carlos Palito was still screaming that he refused to be rescued. Dona Catalina had fainted, for which the caballero who had her in charge was grateful, since he could give more attention to his horse and weapons. Senor Zorro rode wildly with the Senorita Lolita in the saddle before him. He spurred his magnificent horse ahead of all the others, and so led the way to the high road. And when he reached it, he pulled up his mount and watched the others come galloping to the spot, to ascertain whether there had been casualties. Carry out your orders, caballeros, he commanded, when he saw that all had won through safely. And so the band was broken into three detachments. One rushed along the Polar Road with Don Carlos. Another took the highway that would lead them to the Hacienda of Don Alejandro. Senor Zorro, riding without any of his comrades at his side, galloped toward Frey Felipe's place. The Senorita's arms clasped tightly about his neck, and the Senorita's voice in his ear. I knew that you would come for me, senor. She said, I knew you were a true man, and would not see me and my parents remain in that miserable place. Senor Zorro did not answer her with words, for it was not a time for speech with his enemies so close at his heels, but his arm pressed the Senorita closer to him. He had reached the crest of the first hill, and now he stopped the horse to listen for sounds of pursuit, and to watch the flickering lights far behind. For there was a multitude of lights in the plaza now, and in all the houses, for the pueblo had been aroused. The Presidio building was ablaze with light, and he could hear a trumpet being blown, and knew that every available trooper would be sent on the chase. The sound of galloping horses came to his ears. The troopers knew in what direction the rescuers had traveled, and the pursuit would be swift and relentless, with his excellency on the scene to offer fabulous rewards and urge on his men with promises of good posts and promotion. But one thing pleased Senor Zorro as his horse galloped down the dusty highway, and the Senorita clung to him, and the keen wind cut into his face. He knew that the pursuit would have to be divided into three parties. He pressed the Senorita to him again, put spurs to his horse, and rode furiously through the night. So ends Chapter 31. Over the hills peeped the moon. Senor Zorro would have had the sky heavy with clouds this night, and the moon obscured. Could he have had things his own way? For now he was riding along the upper trail, and his pursuers were close behind, and could see him against the brightening sky. The horses ridden by the troopers were fresh, too, and the most of those belonging to the men of his excellency's escort were magnificent beasts, as swift as any in the country, and able to endure many miles of travel at a terrific pace. But now the highwayman thought only of getting all the speed possible out of his own mount, and of making as great as he could the distance between himself and those who followed. For at the end of his journey he would need quite a little time, if he was to accomplish what he had set out to do. He bent low over the Senorita, and felt his horse with the reins, making himself almost a part of the animal he rode, as any good horseman can. He reached the crest of another hill, and glanced back before he began the descent into the valley. He could see the foremost of his pursuers. Had Senor Zero been alone, no doubt the situation would have caused him no uneasiness, for many times he had been in a position more difficult and had escaped. But the Senorita was on the saddle before him now, and he wanted to get her to a place of safety, not only because she was the Senorita and the woman he loved, but also because he was not the sort of man to let a prisoner he had rescued be recaptured. Such an event, he felt, would be a reflection on his skill and daring. Mile after mile he rode, the Senorita clinging to him, and neither speaking a word. Senor Zero knew that he had gained some on those who followed, but not enough to suit his purpose. Now he urged his horse to greater effort, and they flew along the dusty highway. Past haciendas were the hounds barked in sudden alarm. Past the huts of natives were the clamor of beating hooves on the hard road, and he urged bronze men and women to tumble from their bunks and rush to their doors. Once he charged through a flock of sheep that were being driven to rain a day Los Angeles and the market there, and scattered them to either side of the road, leaving cursing herders behind him. The herders gathered to flock again, just in time to have their pursuing soldiers scatter it once more. On and on he rode, until he could see, far ahead, the mission buildings at San Gabriel glistening in the moonlight. He came to a fork in the road and took the trail that ran to the right. Toward the hacienda of Frey Felipe. Señor Zorro was a reader of men, and he was trusting to his judgment tonight. He had known that the senorita Lolita would have to be left either where there were women, or else where there was a rogue Franciscan to stand guard over her, for Señor Zorro was determined to protect his lady's good name, and so he was pinning his faith to old Frey Felipe. Now the horse was galloping over softer ground and was not making such good speed. Señor Zorro had little hope that the troopers would turn into the San Gabriel road when they arrived at the fork. As they might have done, had it not been moonlight, and they had been unable to catch sight now and then of the man they pursued. He was within a mile of Frey Felipe's hacienda now, and once more he gave his horse the spurs in an effort to obtain greater speed. I shall have scant time, senorita, he said, bending over her and speaking into her ear. Everything may depend upon whether I have been able to judge a man correctly. I ask only that you trust me. You know that I do, senor. And you must trust the man to whom I am carrying you, senorita, and listen well to his advice upon all matters concerned with this adventure. The man is afraid. Then everything will be well, senor. She replied, clinging to him closely. If the saints are kind, we shall meet again soon, senorita. I shall count the hours and deem each one of them an age. I believe there are happier days ahead for us. May heaven grant it. The girl breathed. Where there is love, there may be hope, senorita. Then my hope is great, senor. And mine, he said. He turned his horse into Frey Felipe's driveway now and dashed toward the house. His intention was to stop only long enough to leave the girl, hoping that Frey Felipe would afford her protection and then ride on, making considerable noise and drawing the troopers after him. He wanted them to think that he was merely taking a shortcut across Frey Felipe's land to the other road and that he had not stopped at the house. He reigned in his horse before the Veranda steps, sprang to the ground, and lifted the senorita from the saddle, hurrying with her to the door. He beat against it with his fist, praying that Frey Felipe was a light sleeper and easily aroused. From the far distance, there came a low drumming sound that he knew was made by the hooves of his pursuers' horses. It seemed to senor Zorro that it was an age before the old Frey threw open the door and stood framed in it, holding a candle in one hand. The highwayman stepped in swiftly and closed the door behind him so no light would show outside. Frey Felipe had taken a step backward in astonishment when he had beheld the masked man and the senorita he escorted. I am senor Zorro, Frey, the highwayman said, speaking swiftly and in low tones. Perhaps you may feel that you owe me a small debt for certain things, for punishing those who oppressed and mistreated me, I owe you a large debt, Caviero, though it is against my principles to countenance violence of any sort. Frey Felipe replied, I was sure that I had made no mistake in reading your character, senor Zorro went on. This senorita is Lolita, the only daughter of Don Carlos Palido. Ha! Don Carlos is a friend of the Freyles, as you well know, and has known oppression and persecution the same as they. Today, the governor came to Reyna de Los Angeles and had Don Carlos arrested and thrown into the car cell on a charge that has no true worth, as I happen to know. He also had the donor Catalina and this young lady put in car cell in the same prison room with drunkards and disillet women. With the aid of some good friends, I rescued them. May the saints bless you, senor, for that kind action, Frey Felipe cried. Troopers are pursuing us, Frey. It is not seemly, of course, that the senorita ride farther with me alone. Do you take and hide her, Frey? Unless you fear such a course may cause you grave trouble. Senor, Frey Felipe thundered. If the soldiers take her, they will put her in car cell again and probably she will be mistreated. Care for her then, protect her, and you will more than discharge any obligation you may feel that you owe me. And you, senor? I shall ride on, that the troopers may pursue me and not stop here at your house. I shall communicate with you later, Frey. It is agreed between us? It is agreed, Frey Felipe replied solemnly. And I would clasp for you by the hand, senor. That hand clasp was short, yet full of expression for all that. Senor Zoro then whirled toward the door. Blow out your candle, he directed. They must see no light when I open the door. In an instant, Frey Felipe had complied and they were in darkness. Senorita Lolita felt Senor Zoro's lips press against her own for an instant and knew that he had raised the bottom of his mask to give her this caress. And then she felt when a Frey Felipe strung arms around her. Be of good courage, daughter, the Frey said. Senor Zoro, it appears, has as many lives as a cat and something tells me he was not born to be slain by troopers of his Excellency. The highwayman laughed lightly at that, opened the door and darted through, closed it softly behind him and so was gone. Great Eucalyptus trees shrouded the front of the house in shadows and in the midst of these shadows was Senor Zoro's horse. He noticed as he ran toward the beast that the soldiers were galloping down the driveway, that they were much near than he had expected to find them when he emerged from the house. He ran quickly toward his mount, tripped on a stone and fell and frightened the animals so that it reared and darted half a dozen paces away and into the full moonlight. The foremost of his pursuers shouted when he saw the horse and dashed toward it. Senor Zoro picked himself up, gave a quick spring, caught the rains from the ground and vaulted into the saddle, but they were upon him now, surrounding him, their blades flashing in the moonlight. He heard the rossous voice of Sergeant Gonzales ordering the men. Alive, if you can, soldiers, his Excellency would see the rogue suffer for his crimes. At him troopers, by the saints. Senor Zoro perried a stroke with difficulty and found himself unhorsed. On foot he fought his way back into the shadows and the troopers charged after him. With his back to the bowl of a tree, Senor Zoro fought them off. Three sprang from their saddles to rush in at him. He darted from the tree to another, but could not reach his horse. But one belonging to a dismounted trooper was near him and he vaulted into the saddle and dashed down the slope toward the barns and corral. After the rogue, he heard Sergeant Gonzales shouting, his Excellency will have us flayed alive if this pretty highway man escapes us now. They charged after him, eager to win promotion and the reward. But Senor Zoro had some sort of a start of them, enough to enable him to play a trick. As he came into the shadow cast by a big barn, he slipped from the saddle, at the same time giving the horse he rode a cut with his rolls. The animal plunged ahead, snorting with pain and fright, running swiftly through the darkness toward the corral below. The soldiers dashed by in pursuit. Senor Zoro waited until they were passed and then he ran rapidly up the hill again. But he saw that some of the troopers had remained behind to guard the house, evidently with the intention of searching it later and so he found he could not reach his horse. And once more there rang out that peculiar cry, half shriek and half moan, with which Senor Zoro had startled those at the Hacienda of Don Carlos Polito. His horse raised its head, winnied once an answer to his call and galloped toward him. Senor Zoro was in the saddle in an instant, spurring across the field directly in front of him. His horse went over a stone fence as if it had not been in the way. And after him speedily came a part of the troopers. They had discovered the trick he had used. They charged at him from both sides, met behind him, followed, and strained to cut down his lead. He could hear Sergeant Pedro Gonzalez shouting lustily for them to make a capture in the name of the governor. He had hoped that he had drawn them all away from Frey Felipe's house, but he was not sure. And the thing that demanded his attention the most now was the matter of his own escape. He urged his horse cruelly, knowing that this journey across plowed ground was taking the animal's strength. He longed for a hard trail, the broad highway. And finally he reached the ladder. Now he turned his horse's head toward Reina de Los Angeles, for he had work to do there. There was no Senorita before him on the saddle now, and the horse felt the difference. Senor Zoro glanced behind and exalted to find that he was running away from the soldiers. Over the next hill and he would be able to elude them. But he had to be on guard, of course, for there might be troopers in front of him, too. His Excellency might have sent reinforcements to Sergeant Gonzalez, or might have men watching from the tops of the hills. He glanced at the sky and saw that the moon was about to disappear behind a bank of clouds. He would have to make use of the short period of darkness he knew. Down into the little valley he rode, and looked back to find that his pursuers were only at the crest of the hill. Then came the darkness and at the proper time. Senor Zoro had a lead of half a mile on the pursuing soldiers now, but it was not his intention to allow them to chase him into the pueblo. He had friends in this locality. Beside the highway was an adobe hut, where there lived a native Senor Zoro had saved from a beating. Now he dismounted before the hut and kicked against the door. The frightened native opened it. I am pursued, Senor Zoro said. That appeared to be all that was necessary, for the native immediately threw the door of the hut open wider. Senor Zoro led his horse inside, almost filling the crude building, and the door was hastily shut again. Behind it the highway man and the native stood listening, the former with pistol in one hand and his naked blade in the other. So ends Chapter 32 Chapter 33 of the Curse of Capistrano. This Librivox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully. Chapter 33 Flight and Pursuit That the determined pursuit of Senor Zoro and his band of cabieros from the car cell had been taken up so quickly was due to Sergeant Pedro Gonzales. Sergeant Gonzales had heard the shots and had rushed from the tavern with the other troopers at his heels, glad of an excuse to escape without paying for the wine he had ordered. He had heard the shout of the jailer and had understood it, and immediately had grasped the situation. Senor Zoro is rescuing the prisoners, he screeched. The highway man is in our midst again. To horse troopers and after him there is a reward. They knew all about the reward, especially the members of the governor's bodyguard, who had heard his excellency rave at mention of the highway man's name and declare he would make a captain of the trooper who captured him or brought in his carcass. They rushed for their horses, swung themselves into their saddles, and dashed across the plaza toward the car cell with Sergeant Gonzales at their head. They saw the masked cabieros galloping across the plaza and Sergeant Gonzales rubbed his eyes with the back of one hand and swore softly that he had been taking too much wine. He had lied so often about Senor Zoro having a band of men at his back that here was the band materialized out of his falsehoods. When the cabieros split into three detachments Sergeant Gonzales and his troopers were so near them that they observed the maneuver. Gonzales quickly made three troops of the men who followed him and sent a troop after each band. He saw the leader of the cabieros turn toward San Gabriel. He recognized the leap of the great horse the highway man rode and he took after Senor Zoro with an exultant heart, being of a mind to capture or slay the highway man rather than to retake any of the rescued prisoners. For Sergeant Pedro Gonzales had not forgotten the time Senor Zoro had played with him in the tavern at Reina de Los Angeles, nor had he given up the idea of taking his vengeance for it. He had seen Senor Zoro's horse run before, and he wondered a bit now because the highway man was not putting greater distance between himself and his pursuers. And Sergeant Gonzales guessed the reason, that Senor Zoro had Senorita Lolita Polito on the saddle before him and was carrying her away. Gonzales was in the lead, and now and then he turned his head and shouted orders and encouragement to his troopers. The miles flew beneath him and Gonzales was glad because he was keeping Senor Zoro in sight. To Fray Felipe's, that is where he is riding, Gonzales told himself. I knew that old Fray was in league with the bandit. In some manner he tricked me when I sought this Senor Zoro at his hacienda before. Perhaps this highway man has a clever hiding place there. Ha! I shall not be tricked again. On they rode, now and then catching glimpses of the man they pursued, and always in the minds of Gonzales and his troopers were the thoughts of the reward and promotion a capture would mean. Their horses were beginning to show some fatigue already, but they did not spare the animals. They saw Senor Zoro turn into the driveway that led to Fray Felipe's house, and Sergeant Gonzales chuckled low down in his throat because he felt he had guessed correctly. He had the highway man now. If Senor Zoro continued to ride, he could be seen and followed because of the bright moonlight. If he stopped, Senor Zoro could not hope to cope successfully with half a score of troopers with Gonzales at their head. They dashed up to the front of the house and started to surround it. They saw Senor Zoro's horse, and then they saw the highway man himself, and Gonzales cursed because half a dozen troopers were between him and his prey and were at him with their swords, threatening to end the business before Gonzales could reach the scene. He tried to force his horse into the fight. He saw Senor Zoro spring into a saddle and dash away, and the troopers after him. Gonzales not being close gave his attention to the other half of his duty. He bade some of his soldiers surround the house so that none could leave it. Then he saw Senor Zoro take the stone fence and started in pursuit, all except the guards around the house joining him. But Sergeant Gonzales went only as far as the crest of the first hill. He noticed how the highway man's horse was running and realized that he could not be overtaken. Perhaps the sergeant could gain some glory if he returned to Frey Felipe's house and recaptured the senorita. The house was still being guarded when he dismounted before it, and his men reported that none had attempted to leave the building. He called two of his men to his side and knocked on the door. Just instantly it was opened by Frey Felipe. Are you just from bed, Frey? Gonzales asked. Is it not a time of night for honest men to be a bed? Frey Felipe asked in turn. It is, Frey, yet we find you out of it. How does it happen that you did not come from the house before? Did we not make enough noise to awaken you? I heard sounds of combat. And you may hear more, Frey. Else feel the sting of a whip again unless you answer questions swiftly and to the point. Do you deny that Senor Zoro has been here? I do not. Ha! Now we have it. You admit then that you are in league with this pretty highway man, that you shield him upon occasion? You admit that, Frey? I admit nothing of the sort, Frey Felipe replied. I never set my eyes on this Senor Zoro to my knowledge until a very few minutes ago. That is a likely story. Tell it to the stupid natives. But do not try to tell it to a wise trooper, Frey. What did this Senor Zoro wish? You were so close upon the man's heels, Senor, that he scarce had time to wish for anything, Frey Felipe said. Yet you had some speech with him? I opened the door at his knock, Senor, the same as I opened it at yours. What said he? That soldiers were pursuing him. And he asked that you hide him, so he could escape capture at our hands? He did not. Wanted a fresh horse, did he? He did not say as much, Senor. If he is such a thief as he is painted, undoubtedly he would merely have taken a horse without asking had he wanted it. Ha! What business had he with you then? It would be well for you to answer openly, Frey. Did I say that he had business with me? Ha! By the saints! The saints are better off your lips, Senor, boaster and drunkard. Do you wish to receive another beating, Frey? I am riding on his Excellency's business. Do not delay me further. What said this pretty highway man? Mean that I am at liberty to repeat to you, Senor, Frey Felipe said. Sergeant Gonzales pushed him aside roughly and entered the living room, and his two troopers followed it as heels. Light the candle arrow, Gonzales commanded his men. Take candles if you can find any. We search the house. You search my poor house, Frey Felipe cried. And what do you expect to find, Frey Felipe asked? I expect to find the piece of merchandise this pretty Senor O'Zorle left here, Frey. What do you imagine he left? Ha! A package of clothing, I suppose, a bundle of loot, a bottle of wine, a saddle to be mended. What would the fellow leave, Frey? One thing impresses me. Senor O'Zorle's horse carried double when he arrived at your house, and was carrying none but Senor O'Zorle when he departed. And you expect to find the other half of the horse's load, replied Gonzales. Failing to find it, we may try a twist or two of your arm to see whether you can be made to speak. You would dare, you would so affront affray, you would descend to torture. Meal mush and goat's milk, quote Sergeant Gonzales. You fooled me once in some manner, but you will not so fool me again. Search the house, troopers, and be sure that you search it well. I shall remain in this room and keep this entertaining Frey company. I shall endeavor to discover what his sensations were while he was being whipped for swindling. Coward and brute, Frey Felipe thundered. There may come a day when persecution shall cease. Meal mush and goat's milk. When this disorder ends and honest men be given their just dues, Frey Felipe cried. When those who have founded a rich empire here shall receive the true fruits of their labor and daring instead of having them stolen by dishonest politicians and men who stand in their favor. Goat's milk and meal mush, Frey. When there shall be a thousand Senor O'Zorle's, and more if necessary, to ride up and down El Camino Real and punish those who do wrong. Sometimes I would that I were not afraid that I might play such a game myself. We'd run you down in short order and stretch a rope with your weight. Sergeant Gonzales told him, Did you help his Excellency's soldiers more? Perhaps his Excellency would treat you with more consideration. I give aid to no spawn of the devil, Frey Felipe said. Ha! Now you grow angry. And that is against your principles. Is it not the part of a robe Frey to receive what comes his way and give thanks for it? No matter how much it chokes him? Answer me that angry one. You have about as much knowledge of a Franciscan's principles and duties as has the horse you ride. I ride a wise horse, a noble animal. He comes when I call and gallops when I command. Do not deride him until you ride him. Ha! An excellent jest. Imbecile, meal mush and goat's milk, said Sergeant Gonzales. So ends Chapter 33 Chapter 34 of The Curse of Capistrano. This Librivox recording is in the public domain, recording by Barry Eads. The Curse of Capistrano by Johnston McCully Chapter 34 The Blood of the Politos The two troopers came back into the room. They had searched the house well, they reported, invading every corner of it and no trace had been found of any person other than Frey Felipe's native servants, all of whom were too terrified to utter a falsehood and had said they had seen nobody around the place who did not belong there. Ha! Hidden away well, no doubt, Gonzales said. Frey, what is that in the corner of the room? Bails of hides, Frey Felipe replied. I have been noticing it from time to time. The dealer from San Gabriel must have been right when he said the hides he purchased of you were not properly cured. Are those? I think you will find them so. Then why did they move? Sergeant Gonzales asked. Three times I saw the corner of a bail move. Soldiers, search there. Frey Felipe sprang to his feet. I think you will find them so. He cried. Enough of this nonsense. You have searched and found nothing. Search the barns next and then go. At least let me be master in my own house. You have disturbed my rest enough as it is. You will take a solemn oath, Frey, that there is nothing alive behind those bales of hides. Frey Felipe hesitated and Sergeant Gonzales grinned. Not ready to forswear yourself, eh? Sergeant asked. I had thought you would hesitate it that, my robe-friend Siskian. Soldiers, search the bales. The two men started toward the corner, but they had not covered one half the distance once Senorita Lolita Palito stood up behind the bales of hides and faced them. Ha! Unearth that last! Gonzales cried. Here is the package Senorazoro left in the phrase keeping, and a pretty package it is. Back to Carcel, she goes, and this escape will but make her final sentence the greater. But there was Palito blood in the Senorita's veins, and Gonzales had not taken that into account. Now the Senorita stepped to the end of the pile of hides, so that light from the candolero struck full upon her. One moment, Senors. She said. One hand came from behind her back, and in it she held a long-keen knife, such as sheepskinners used. She put the point of the knife against her breast, and regarded them bravely. Senorita Lolita Palito does not return to the foul Carcel now or at any time, Senors. She said. After which she plunged this knife into her heart, and so die as a woman of good blood should. If his Excellency wishes a dead prisoner, he may have one. Sergeant Gonzales uttered an exclamation of annoyance. He did not doubt that the Senorita would do as she threatened if the men made an attempt to seize her, and while he might have ordered the attempt in the case of an ordinary prisoner, he did not feel sure that the Governor would say he had done right if he ordered it now. After all, Senorita Palito was the daughter of Adon, and her self-inflicted death might cause trouble for his Excellency. It might prove the spark to the powder magazine. Senorita, the person who takes his or her own life, risks eternal damnation, the sergeant said. Ask this fray if it is not so. You are only under arrest, not convicted and sentenced. If you are innocent, no doubt you soon will be set at liberty. It is no time for lying speeches, Senor. The girl replied. I realize the circumstance is only too well. I have said that I will not return to Carcel, and I meant it, and mean it now. One step toward me, and I take my own eye. Senorita, fray Felipe began. It is useless for you to attempt to prevent me, good fray. She interrupted. I have pride left me, thank the Saints. His Excellency gets only my dead body if he gets me at all. Here is a pretty mess, Sergeant Gonzales exclaimed. I suppose there is nothing for us to do except retire and leave the Senorita to her freedom. Ah, no, Senor. She cried quickly. You are clever, but not clever enough by far. You would retire and continue to have your men surround the house. You would watch for an opportunity, and then seize me. Gonzales growled low in his throat, for that had been his intention, and the girl had read it. I shall be the one to leave, she said. Walk backward and stand against the walls, Senors. Do it immediately, or I punch this knife into my bosom. They could do nothing except obey. The soldiers looked to the sergeant for instructions, and the sergeant was afraid to risk the Senorita's death, knowing it would call down upon his head the wrath of the governor, who would say that he had bungled. Perhaps after all it would be better to let the girl leave the house. She might be captured afterward, for surely a girl could not escape the troopers. She watched them closely as she darted across the room to the door. The knife was still held at her breast. Frey Felipe, you wish to go with me? She asked. You may be punished if you remain. Yet I must remain, Senorita. I could not run away. May the Saints protect you. She faced Gonzales and the soldiers once more. I am going through this door, she said. You will remain in this room. There are troopers outside, of course, and they will try to stop me. I shall tell them that I have your permission to leave. If they call and ask you, you are to say that it is so. What if I do not? Then I use the knife, Senor. She opened the door, turned her head for an instant, and glanced out. I trust that your horse is an excellent one, Senor, for I intend to use it. She told the sergeant. She darted suddenly through the door and slammed it shut behind her. After her, Gonzales cried, I looked into her eyes. She will not use the knife. She fears it. He hurled himself across the room, the two soldiers with him. But Frey Felipe had been passive long enough. He went into action now. He did not stop to consider the consequences. He threw out one leg and tripped Sergeant Gonzales. The two troopers crashed into him and all went to the floor in a tangle. Frey Felipe had gained some time for her, and it had been enough. For the Senorita had rushed to the horse and had jumped into the saddle. She could ride like a native. Her tiny feet did not reach halfway to the sergeant's stirrups, but she thought nothing of that. She wheeled the horse's head, kicked at his sides as a trooper rushed around the corner of the house. A pistol-ball whistled past her head. She bent lower over the horse's neck and rode. Now a cursing Sergeant Gonzales was on the veranda, shouting for his men to get to horse and follow her. The moon was behind a bank of clouds again. They could not tell the direction the Senorita was taking except by listening for the sounds of the horse's hooves, and they had to stop to do that. And if they stopped, they lost time and distance. So ends Jack...