Without a question Adrian sprang within, dragging the lifeless
form of the sentry with him.
"Quick, bar the gate!" he commanded.
The command was obeyed.
"Now where is Mr. Black?" he asked.
"Upstairs talking with Jose."
"All right. Bind this man while I go up. Don't let him escape or
he is liable to cut your throat."
"_No temer V, senor_" was the response, meaning "Have no fear."
Adrian ran lightly up the stairs, revolver in hand. He heard
voices talking and had no doubt that Jose was narrating some
trumped-up story.
"Yes, senor," he heard the mozo say, "they are expecting you. It
is necessary that you go at once."
Adrian flung open the door and covered Jose with his revolver.
"Put up your hands," he commanded. Then to Mr. Black, to whom
Jose was talking: "Take his weapons away from him, Mr. Black."
Realizing at once that something was wrong, Mr. Black obeyed.
"Now tie him."
This was also quickly done, Mr. Black asking at the same time
what had happened.
"I can't tell you exactly, Mr. Black, but this man has betrayed
us and we are now watched by a squad of soldiers."
Mr. Black's face turned as black as his name.
"Is that true?" he demanded, seizing Jose by the shoulder with
such a powerful grip that the man cried out with pain.
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