uis of his proceedings, who
would, without the slightest scruple, probably get him assassinated; but
the bravo's dagger was not always sure, and if the marquis knew that he
was dead he might be tempted to assume more independence than would be
convenient. He had another plan, which could not possibly fail.

Pedro Alvarez, as do most captains, lived on shore while his ship was
fitting out. He continued to do so after she was ready for sea, and
while he was waiting for orders. He had made every preparation for
sailing, and was ready to trip his anchor at a moment's notice. At last
his despatches arrived. He was paying his last visit to the shore,
when, as he was sitting in the room of his lodging glancing over a few
accounts which remained unpaid, a stranger was announced. Captain
Alvarez rose to receive him, and requested to know the object of his
visit. As he did so, he recognised a person of whom he had caught a
glimpse more than once, watching him as he left the house.

"No matter who I am," said the stranger; "I but obey the orders of my
superiors, and I am directed to desire you to attend at the office of
the Holy Inquisition, there to answer certain accusations which have
been brought against you. This, it is hoped, you can at once easily and
completely do, and that you will therefore not hesitate to accompany me.
A carriage waits for us at the end of the street. You can arrange the
matters about which you are now occupied on your return. I am directed
to accompany you, and as the council is now sitting there is no time to
be lost."

"Do you expect to catch a weasel asleep?" thought Pedro, at least an
equivalent Spanish proverb occurred to him. Pedro was conscious that he
had at times expressed himself, in coffee-houses and taverns, in a way
not over complimentary, either to the priests or the Inquisition itself;
and he felt very sure that no explanations he could give would prove
satisfactory to the Inquisitional council. The bold determined look he
gave the officer was such as that worthy officer was little accustomed
to receive from the trembling wretches on whom he served his summonses.

"You have performed your duty, my friend, and now go back to those who
sent you, and inform them that you have delivered your message, but that
my avocations prevent me from acceding to their demands."

The official looked wonderfully astonished, and, without saying another
word, drew a pistol from his bosom, an