e, and were engaged in
eager conversation. During this time several persons had come up and
asked Dona Dolores to dance; but she declined, saying that she was in no
mood for such an amusement. She contrived, however, to keep most of
them by her side for some time, while she urged on them the duty of
joining the Patriot cause. I left her surrounded by a number of
gentlemen, and went to look after Juan, to whom I wished to repeat the
remarks I had heard from Dona Dolores. I found him at length in an
alcove, still talking with Captain Lopez. The captain's countenance, as
I watched him at a little distance, impressed me very unfavourably.
There was a scowl on his brow, and a peculiar wrinkle about his lips,
which made me feel that I for one would not trust him; and I hoped that
my friend would not be induced to do so either.

I waited until the captain quitted Juan, to whom I then went up, and
told him what Dona Dolores had said.

"She is too probably right, for she has wonderful perception of
character; but, unfortunately, I have engaged Captain Lopez to come and
drill my men, and I cannot now well put him off without his considering
himself insulted. However, I will remember the warning I have received,
and not trust him too much. I intend to bear the whole expense of the
corps myself, and am anxious to get some smart young officers. I wish
that you would join us, Duncan. You would soon learn your duties; they
come almost by instinct to some people."

"If I can get my father's leave, depend upon it I will," I answered;
"and as Mr Laffan has seen some service, I have no doubt that he will
assist you. Perhaps he himself will join. I suspect that he would be
as well able to drill your corps as Captain Lopez."

Several gentlemen present had been engaged in raising men; and, I was
told, there were already upwards of two thousand troops in town, though
few of them were sufficiently disciplined to meet the enemy. Other
Patriot leaders were scouring the country round to obtain recruits, and
these, in small parties, were coming in during the night.

In spite of the serious aspect of affairs, the people at this ball
danced as much as ever. The card-tables were also filled, but the
players stopped very frequently, forgetting the game to discuss matters
of importance. I understood that there were men on the watch at the
doors, to give notice should any foes to the Liberal party make their
appearance.

"I found, o