twenty miles from the
place where Ridge landed on the coast, the way to it was so obstructed,
first by swamps and dense forests, and later by wooded hills and
swollen streams, that evening shadows were closing in when Ridge and
his ragged escort came within sight of its low roofs. On the still air
were borne to their ears at the same moment the clear notes of Spanish
bugles sounding the "Retreat."

Ridge had speculated much that day concerning his reception by the
Spaniards, and as to how he should enter their lines. Now del Concha
proposed a plan that seemed feasible.

"Ride in at full speed," he said, "while I with my men will follow as
though in hot pursuit close up to the lines. Of course we will
exchange shots, though both must carefully fire too high to do any
damage. Is it well? Then adios, my friend, until we meet again."

A few minutes later the newly posted Spanish guard was startled by the
sound of shots, and then by the sight of a fugitive horseman speeding
towards them, followed closely by a party of mounted insurgents who
were firing at him. Drums were beat and trumpets sounded. A small
body of troops hastily advanced from the city, opening their ranks to
receive the panting horse and its apparently exhausted rider, but
closing them to give an ineffective volley against his pursuers, who
were now flying in consternation.

Half an hour afterwards, Ridge, addressed as Senor Remelios, stood in
the presence of General Pando, the Spanish commander of the eastern
diocese of the island, and second only to the Captain-General, who was
carefully reading a despatch just handed him by the young trooper.

"You say, senor, that you have just come from Gibara, where you were
secretly landed last night?"

"Yes, General."

"Also from this note, signed by Lieutenant Carranza, I learn that the
Americans are about to land in force at Cienfuegos."

"Such are Senor Carranza's latest advices."

"Um! They conflict, however, with news just brought from the south
that a landing has already been effected at Guantanamo."

Here the old soldier peered keenly at our hero, who experienced a
thrill of uneasiness.

At this moment there came a challenge from the sentry stationed at the
door. It was satisfactorily answered, and another individual hurriedly
entered the room.

"Your Excellency," said this person, making a profound salute, "pardon
my intrusion; but I am come to denounce the man now standing before you