A NIGHT ATTACK. P:ir e 28.
--IFS IN THE
>T INDIES.
THE OCEAX LIFE SERIES.
LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
BY
W. H. THOMES,
AUTHOR OF "THE GOLP-HrXTERS AnrKHTTTMS HT AUSTRALIA,*
"THE BUSHRANGERS," "THE GOLD HUXTER3 DT KCROPE, 1 *
"A WHALEMAX 5 APVEXTURESr "A SLAV:.
ADVEXTUBES," KTC,, ETC,
ILLUSTRATED.
BOSTON:
LEE AND STIEPARD. PUBLISHERS.
N- KTV YORK:
LEE, SHEPAKO AXD PILLIXGHAM.
1875.
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1872,
BY LEE AND SHEPARD,
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington*
STEREOTYPED AT THE BOSTON STEREOTYPE FOUNDRY,
No. 1 ( J Spring Lane.
BOOKS BY THE SAME AUTHOR.
THE GOLD-HUNTERS ADVENTURES IN AUSTRALIA.
THE BUSHRANGERS; or, LIFE IN AUSTRALIA.
THE GOLD-HUNTERS IN EUROPE; or, THE DEAD ALIVE.
A WHALEMAN S ADVENTURES IN THE SANDWICH ISLANDS
AND CALIFORNIA.
A SLAVER S ADVENTURES ON LAND AND SEA.
LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
All Handsomely Illustrated.
LEE &. SHEPARD, PUBLISHERS, BOSTON.
M24633
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I. PAGB
Manila and its People. An Explanation. Agreeable Quarters.
A Spaniard s Home. Field Sports. Visitors. A Handsome
Lady 9
CHAPTER II.
The Search for the Outlaw. An Obstruction. The Monkeys.
The Ladrone. The Fight 38
CHAPTER III.
Don Arturo s Dreams. A Moment s Absence. An Excursion.
A wonderful Spring. The Ladrones. . . . .93
CHAPTER IV.
A Night in the Convent. A sudden Death. Surprise and Con
sternation. Father Juan. Suspicions, and what they amounted
to 117
CHAPTER V.
A Warning. Father Juan on the Trail. Tom and Donna Teresa.
The Supper, and what come of it 145
CHAPTER VI.
A surprised Husband. A cool Priest. An Explanation. . . 172
7
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER VII.
Teresa s Aunt Her Ideas and Confessions. How the Search pro
ceeded, and what was the Result 188
CHAPTER VIII.
The Inn. Our Coffee. The Ambush. The Attack. Its Fail-
The Examination. The Result 230
nre.
CHAPTER IX.
The Search of the Ladrones. The Fire. A bad Predicament.
Looking for a Wife 253
CHAPTER X.
Gracia s Father. A Confession. On the Trail, &c., &c., &c. . 281
CHAPTER XI.
Meeting one s Wife. A long Conversation. The Discovery.
Plans for Escape, &c., &c., &c 328
LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
CHAPTER: i. y/, ] ^ _ \\ " ^;- : \] y\i !/;.
MANILA AND ITS PEOPLE. AN EXPLANATION. AGREEABIJE
QUARTERS. A SPANIARD S HOME. FIELD SPORTS. VIS
ITORS. A HANDSOME LADY.
THERE is not a more pleasant city, whether for love, fun, or
adventures, in the Eastern world, than Manila, the principal port
of the Philippine Islands. It is under Spanish rule, and has so
remained for the last two hundred years, and presents all the
peculiar features of a large Spanish city, with its costumes and
its customs, its trade and its convents, its loves and its jealousies,
its handsome women and delicious fruits, its peculiar dishes, and
its haughty Dons and insolent soldiers. Manila is only three
days sail from Hong Kong, and the merchant princes of the latter
city are often glad to leave their busy cares and the dreary
wastes of that portion of China, and steam over to the Spanish
province, where youth and beauty are sure to greet them, and-
luxurious living and enticing amusements repay the truants for
their trip.
The climate, during the dry season, which lasts about seven
months in the year, is delightful. A clear sky, and a delicious
breeze, which sweeps over the city, fresh from a magnificent
bay, cooling the atmosphere both morning and evening, render
the sunset promenade upon the Calsarda so attractive, that a
foreigner would sooner think of foregoing his cheroot, than
miss directing his steps across the stone bridge which spans the
Pasig, regularly after dinner, between five and eight o clock.
At those hours the regimental parades take place, and the brass
10 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
bauds discourse music for the edification of the gay throng, who
ride and saunter along, exchanging the compliments of the day,
retailing the latest scandal or the most remarkable news.
Dark-haired ladies, with eyes like liquid fire, lean back in their
carriages, and a flash of their bright optics tells more than their
lips dare to confess.
Wrinkled mothers and duennas watch the gallants, and are ex
tremely officious to prevent lovers from exchanging a single word
in. private ; but in defiance of their precautions, stolen glances and
secret signs convey irea .aing known only to those intended, and
many a private rendezvous, is agreed upon, while parents imagine
ii fciv Viau -jfMt^rtT Jittle /".fhinls of lovers, or aught else but confes
sionals and repentance.
Still the gay throng passes onward, and with the crowd mix
priests and men of all nations. The Englishman, with his bold,
defiant air and sandy whiskers ; the American, with his thin face
and care-worn brow, wondering whether the cargo upon which he
has ventured half his fortune will arrive at its port of destination
in safety ; the mercurial Frenchman, thinking of nothing but love,
adventure, and pleasure ; the swarthy Spaniard, with dark looks
and sullen aspect, if a gallant regards the lady of his love with
more than usual interest, or presumes to smile upon her in any
other capacity than a friend of the family ; the awkward China
man, with his pig-tail and wide trousers, meditating upon the
profits which he expects to reap by a sale of paddy, and appear
ing courteous to all, while in his heart he despises the throng for
its waste of money in riding in carriages as long as feet are
able to support the body ; Mestiza girls, with scanty clothing
and voluptuous forms, and long, dark hair nearly reaching to
their knees, flowing in the most profuse abandon over their necks
and shoulders, chewing betel-nut, and spitting a blood-red secre
tion, which more than once has been mistaken by foreigners for
the vital fluid from the lungs, all these characters, and many-
others, can be seen of a pleasant afternoon upon the Calsarda, for
then the wealth and beauty of Manila are abroad, and all flock
to that celebrated promenade as readily as our citizens seek the
Common, or Londoners Hyde Park.
I will tell you, however, before I proceed farther, how I hap
pened to become a resident of Manila ; for I have nothing to con
ceal, and much to reveal, and it is necessary tha . the reader
ARRIVAL AT MANILA. H
should understand my position, and the reason why I, a stranger,
leaped from a ship, and got quartered with one of the richest
and most influential Dons of the town.
The, house vdthiwhich I was connected at Hong Kong made
up its mind that rponey could be gained by purchasing rice at
Manila ,asd shipping it for China; but to carry on the business
extensively, it was necessary that one of the partners, with a
knowledge of the Spanish language, should reside at Manila,
\ watch the market closely, and purchase at the best advantage.
I was luckily selected, and, armed with letters of credit and
introduction to our correspondent, Don Arturo, a wealthy Span
iard, with immense pride and a pretty wife, and also with notes to
Messrs. Russell Sturgis & Co., I bade a joyful farewell to China,
and after four days passage arrived in safety at the place of my
destination.
Of course, the instant I presented myself at the residence of
Don Arturo, whose spacious mansion was located in Binondo,
separated from the city proper by the Rio Pasig, I was welcomed
with all the hospitality of a true son of Spain, and in spite of my
strong declination, was compelled to take up my quarters with
him, where I spent many pleasant hours, and quite a number of
wretched ones, yet wholly unable to escape without giving serious
offence to the Don and his fair wife.
At length I made new acquaintances, and under the pretence
of desiring a week s shooting, would leave the house of my
entertainers and remain absent until courtesy compelled me 10
return.
On the left bank of the Rio Pasig, about five miles from Manila,
surrounded by cocoa-nut trees, mango trees, and luxuriant vegeta
tion, such as only the most rich tropical climates can produce,
stands a number of whitewashed buildings ; and during the long
summer afternoons, when the river boatmen have ceased their
songs, and the washerwomen suspended their clothes-thrashing
upon the smooth rocks, the buzz of a thousand spindles, and the
panting of a steam engine as it regularly performs its work, can
be heard, and creates feelings of intense surprise in the minds of
strangers, who are aware of the Spaniard s aversion to labor
saving machines, or to any innovation upon the forms of his
ancestors.
The engine and the spindles are engaged in the manufacture
12 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
of rope of all sizes, from the mighty hawser to the finest lead
line, and is the only cordage factory of any magnitude in the
Eastern world, or was, at the time I write, in the years 18 .
The enterprise was formed by American energy, carried through
by American intelligence, and was then, and is now, for all I
know to the contrary, entirely under American control, and owned
entirely by American capitalists.
The machinery was purchased in Massachusetts ; the long
rope-walk was built, and then taken apart and put on board a
vessel that sailed from Boston ; and lastly, Massachusetts mechan
ics were employed to go to Santa Mesa, put the whole in com
plete order, and remain in the country and superintend the
works, with the condition of owning a certain number of shares
in case the enterprise was successful, of which there was some
doubt, owing to the superstition of the natives and the jealousy
of the government, which feared to give Americans a fair foot
hold in the country, on account of the peculiar ideas which our
countrymen entertain respecting liberty of speech and action.
The enterprise was successful. After a sickly existence at first,
Messrs. Huckford & Allen, who were the resident superintend
ents, gradually found that their wealth was iucreasiug with their
experience, and that at the end of their engagements they could
return to the United States comparatively wealthy, and no longer
sleep with weapons under their heads for fear of midnight at
tacks, or carry concealed pistols during the daytime to defend
their lives, in case a workman should take a fancy to the clothes
or the watch which they wore ; for a more treacherous race of
scamps never existed upon the face of the earth than the Manila
Mestizos, or half-castes.
They will cut your throat for a dollar, if they can do it with
out being required to display bravery ; they will steal all that you
own, if your back is turned, even if ten minutes previous you had
saved their lives from an anaconda or a wild buffalo ; they will
cheat you with unblushing impudence, and lie to screen them
selves ; they will murder you for having an amour with their
wives or daughters, and then sell both to the next European they
chance to meet ; they will gamble their last shirt away, and steal
their neighbor s ; they will quarrel ainoug themselves for hours
at a time, and yet not come to blows ; and lastly, they will share
their plunder with the priests, who coolly take Uieir portion, and
FIELD SPORTS. 13
give absolution with an unconcern for the crime that is truly
refreshing in so warm a climate.
Such are a few of the peculiar characteristics of the race which
the Spanish hold in subjection by the pure force of military des
potism ; and perhaps it is as well that the natives have cruel
masters, for kindness is entirely thrown away when meted out
to them.
At Messrs. Iluckford & Allen s residence, at Santa Mesa, I
was a welcome guest, for Americans were scarce upon the island,
and what few there were were as clannish as Scotchmen.
Frequently would I mount my horse, and leaving word for my
servant to follow in a banco with a change of linen, escape from
the heat and bustle of Manila for a quiet residence of a few days
at the factory. Then Allen, who was my senior by three years,
would lay out the sport which we should pursue, and was never
BO happy as when, with dog and gun, we paddled up the river
and shot pigeons, deer, or got a crack at deer. And when
we returned, Mr. Huckford would lean his head upon his hand
and listen to the recital of the sports of the day with all the
enthusiasm of a true disciple of Jsimrod happy to think that
w.e had enjoyed ourselves, yet never for a moment regretting
that he was unable to leave the factory while Allen was absent,
so that he could participate in the sports.
u What plans have you laid out for to-morrow ? " inquired Mr.
Huckford, as we drew back from the tea table and lighted our
cheroots by a flickering flame fed by cocoa-nut oil.
We had returned home after a hard day s tramp, during which
we had slain two deer and a number of birds with plumage like
a rainbow, but which the cook had seized with guttural expres
sions of delight, and uttered a promise to prepare them for break
fast with curry and rice.
u We think of trying the woods just above San Pedro Macati.
We met a laucero this afternoon, who stated that he had seen
large numbers of deer there within a few days," answered Allen.
44 Then you had better start before daylight, for the deer will
seek the mo&t sheltered spots before the sun gets high, and I d mt
think that it is safe within the darkest recesses of the woods," re
plied Mr. Huekford.
4k Danger? " cried Allen; u why, what danger can there be
to two well-armed men? If you mean ladroncs, we should not
14 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
fear a dozen, even armed with muskets of the most approved
Spanish pattern."
u The ladrones will not trouble you," replied the head super
intendent, " simply because men on gunning expeditions carry
but little money upon their persons. No ; I allude to a more serious
consideration. The anaconda is a dangerous fellow to meet in a
wood, and you know that he seldom gives warning of his at
tack."
I could not suppress a shudder, for I had seen the monsters in
all their wildness and power during my residence in the island,
and I confess that a close inspection was not agreeable.
" I think that I shall leave the forest of San Pedro to more
mighty hunters than myself," I said, after a moment s hesitation.
" I have no nerve for encountering the eyes of a serpent. The
fate of all Englishmen who would not take advice is still in
my ears."
" Bah ! " replied Allen, with a smile ; " I know of a pair of eyes
that are much more dangerous to you than those of an anaconda.
With a steady hand and a good rifle a snake can be overcome ;
but whoever heard of a second Joseph in this enlightened and
uncommonly fast age ? "
I observed a peculiar smile upon Mr. Huckford s face, and I
was just about asking Allen for an explanation of his words, when
the dogs in the yard set up a loud yelping, which betokened the
presence of strangers. A moment after, the sound of carriage
wheels was heard, and in a few seconds the vehicle stopped in
front of the huge gate, which was always closed at night.
" Who can have arrived at this late hour of the night?" Mr.
Iluckford inquired.
"Can t you guess?" Allen replied; and I thought that the
words were accompanied by a significant look which Mr. Iluck
ford seemed to understand, for he rested his head upon his hand
and looked at me as though he had some trouble, which he was
anxious to confide under strict injunctions of secrecy.
u They must come in, I suppose," Allen said ; and then raising
his voice, he shouted to the servants, who were in the next room,
to bring lights and open the gate to admit the visitors.
u //o, el casa ! " shouted a voice that I thought I recognized.
u Well, what is wanted?" replied Allen, stepping to the door
which overlooked the outer court-yard ; and shading the light with
A VISITOR. 15
Lis hand, he allowed the flame to flash full upon the dark carriage
beneath.
" My noble master, Don Arturo, is your visitor, and would fain
speak with you right speedily," replied the coachman, who had
served the old gentleman for many years, alad had been drilled
like a marine during that time for the purpose of delivering mes
sages with proper pomposity.
" Is he alone? " Allen asked ; and I thought that I detected a
sneer in his tone as he inquired.
" His lady is with him, senor," replied the man.
" Did I not tell you? " Allen asked, turning to Mr. Huckford ;
but what he meant I didn t understand.
The old gentleman did not reply, but made a gesture of im
patience, and lighted a fresh cheroot.
" What can have brought my friends here at this hour of the
night?" I asked. "The road is none too secure between Mesa
and Manila, and the diamonds which Donna Teresa wears would
prove a prize to a gang of ladrones. Her husband has but little
courage, and his hands tremble when excited."
" The night air is pleasant, and the lady needs exercise, I sup
pose," replied Mr. Huckford.
I did not consider the reason a valid one, but went to the
head of the stairway and heard the servant drive away the savage
dogs and quiet them, and then unlock and unbar the gate and ad
mit the carriage.
I heard the voice of my old friend as ho left the vehicle and
was welcomed by Allen, and then I recognized the low, sweet
tones of his wife, as the gallant Spaniard assisted her to
alight, and led her up the stairway, preceded by the servants
with lamps.
" Ah, Guillermo, my friend, we find you at last ! " exclaimed
Don Arturo, grasping my hand with much warmth. u We are
very dull at home without you, and this time you have been ab
sent for many days."
I returned his warm grasp and bowed low, as the wife, in all
her queenly beauty, swept past and acknowledged my salute with
a flash of her bright black eyes, that was like a shock of electricity
to my nerves.
The servants placed chairs for the visitors, brought fresh coffee
and additional cigars, and then vanished like ghosts.
16 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" By all the most holy saints, but you have treated us most
coldly, Guillermo," the Spaniard said, while sipping his coffee.
" Six days absent, and not a word during all that time. Diablo !
I began to think that something serious had happened."
44 And did you imagine that we were incapable of taking care
of our friend ? " Allen asked, turning to the lady and regarding
her beautiful face keenly.
44 Santa Marie ! " she replied, with a careless smile ; " I had but
little thought of the matter."
44 I have passed a number of days in hunting and roaming
through the forests," I said, 44 and have yet a few engagements
with Senor Allen, who has promised to find me deer in abun
dance."
44 And you forget that I promised to show you to-morrow the
prettiest Mestizas girl in Santa Mesa," cried Allen.
I saw the blood flush into Donna Teresa s face, and her eyes
sparkled like diamonds as she listened.
44 For shame ! " I said in English ; u the lady does not under
stand such kind of jokes. Don t make me worse than I am in
her eyes."
4i Did you not say that a gentleman wished to see the Senor
Guillermo in Manila?" the lady asked, turning to her husband,
and speaking in subdued tones.
44 To be sure ; and I nearly forgot to mention the matter. A
Chinaman is desirous of disposing of ten casco loads of rice, and
will sell cheap for cash. You must see him in the morning with
out delay."
44 1 have already done so : to-morrow he will present drafts on
your house for payment," I replied.
I saw a shade of disappointment cross the face of the lady, and
I wondered at it. Don Arturo required an explanation.
44 The Chinaman, learning that 1 was at Santa Mesa, took a
banco, and came up the river this afternoon. I found him here
when I returned, and completed the bargain in ten minutes."
44 Then our journey has been useless," replied the Spaniard,
turning to his wife ; but she did not answer. She seemed oc
cupied with her own thoughts, and her glorious eyes, veiled by
long lashes, were cast upon the floor.
44 No, not useless," I replied, 4t for I am positive that Senora
Huckford and ALeu are grateful for the pleasure of your company.
A LITTLE BT FIAT. 17
This house rarely opens its doors to give admittance to ladies, so
that when they condescend to visit us we extend a hearty wel
come."
The lady raised her eyes, and darted a glance, rapid as light
ning, at my face ; but, quick as she was, Allen saw it.
44 Let me see," I continued, in a musing tone ; " I have been
here six days to-day, and during my absence from the city I have
not exchanged a word with lady or Mestizas before this evening."
" You are mad," muttered Allen, in English, " and are doing
all you can to feed * "
I did not comprehend him, and indeed I was regarding the
wife too closely to pay much attention to his words ; and I
felt happy when I saw that she smiled upon me for my virtuous
habits, and that her eyes looked more soft after receiving the in
formation.
44 We must return to the city," the Spaniard said at length,
glancing towards his wife ; but she made no response.
44 You will remain with us till morning," Mr. Huckford said,
although I thought he spoke rather coldly.
The Don looked towards his wife for instruction.
44 If we return we must have an escort, for the hour is late for
travellers," she replied.
44 If you will go I shall accompany you," I said. " We can
not think of letting so much beauty run the risk of insult from
every roving band of ladrones."
" But you forget that I accompany her," cried the old Span
iard, with dignity ; and had I not known him I should have cer
tainly thought that he was a man to fight to the death.
44 True, but what can one man do against a dozen?"
44 Die," answered the son of Spain, solemnly, placing his hand
upon his breast like a knight of St. Louis.
44 Let us end this discussion," the lady exclaimed, with a
haughty wave of her jewelled hand. 44 1 cannot think of expos
ing the life of my husband. We will accept of the hospitality of
our friends, and remain here for the night."
44 1 supposed it would come to that in the end," muttered Allen,
in English ; and as he spoke he rose, and gave the necessary or
ders to prepare the best room in the building, and to put the
horses up for the night.
I had always classed Allen as a cold and distant man in the
18 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
presence of ladies, and more than once I had joked him on his
evident dislike to Donna Teresa. He had always repelled the
imputation ; but still I was satisfied that there was ill feeling be
tween the lady and him, and that I was in some measure the
cause. At any rate, on the evening in question, after the lady
had decided to remain all night, not the most punctilious could
find fault with Allen s deportment. He was kind and attentive,
and even brought out his harp, which the servants were forbidden
to dust or look at, and placed it before the haughty beauty, beg
ging in humble terms that she would honor him by touching the
chords with her delicate fingers.
" Do you wish to speak with her alone? " Allen whispered, as
he passed me.
I looked at him in astonishment, and did not understand the
meaning of the question.
" It s all right, my boy ; I ll find an opportunity," he continued,
mistaking my silence for assent.
" Ho muchachos, traer vino" Allen shouted ; and as the lads
entered with decanters and bottles, the old Spaniard rubbed his
hands with glee, and, regardless of his wife, challenged Mr.
Huckford to drink the health of every person of note on the
island.
I loved the music of the harp better than wine, and while the
rest were drinking glass for glass, leaned over the back of Donna
Teresa s chair, and chatted with her in a low tone.
" Tell me," said Donna Teresa, while she was carelessly
drawing her hand over the harp, " what Senor Allen meant when
he spoke to you in English this morning."
" Upon my word, I have forgotten," I replied. " The subject
was too trivial to occupy my attention when a lady was present."
She darted a sharp glance at my face, as though to judge of
my sincerity ; but as she met my gaze of admiration, she colored,
and swept the harp a few times as though endeavoring to recall a
favorite air.
u Will you never give up this dangerous pastime of yours ?
Can hunting be so fascinating that all society is forgotten, and all
business neglected? " she asked.
u I have few friends in Manila," I replied, " and I sometimes
think that the less they see of me, the more of their esteem I shall
DON AKTTIRO S SONG. 19
" You wrong your .friends and do great injustice to my hus
band, who is never happy unless he can converse with you after
the business of the day."
" How can a man be unhappy, possessing so beautiful a wife?"
I asked.
She cast a reproachful glance at me, and then remained silent
so long that I feared I had offended her, and was about to apolo
gize, when Don Arturo, who was being plied with wine by Allen,
and whose weak head was incapable of carrying all that he swal
lowed, volunteered to sing a song, and commanded silence accord
ingly-
" By the mass, I know not if I can recollect it, for tis forty
years since I learned the lines while coming from Spain. Let me
see ; it begun thus :
" The king has forty galleons laden deep with ore;
Our queen is full as rich, for she has many more ;
The Spanish ships are manned with braves "
Here the worthy Don grew inharmonious and hoarse, and
while trying to recover the tune, forgot his song, plunged his
head into a huge glass, and drained its contents.
" You see how happy he is, and how much I am prized when
wine is on the table. I should be proud of my husband should
I not?"
How scornful she looked at the old man, who had bound her
to himself by vows which she could not break, much as she fretted
under them.
u You will return to the city with us to-morrow will you
not?" she asked; and when she spoke to me I noticed that her
voice was soft and gentle, and that her hauteur was gone.
4t Not to-morrow," I replied. " Before your welcome arrival,
we laid out our plans for a day s shooting in the woods of San
Pedro. I must not disappoint amigo Allen."
" Of course he is of more importance than myself. Go by all
means."
She struck the harp a number of energetic blows, as though she
felt indignant at the carousal of her husband ; but in a few min
utes all expression of displeasure passed from her face, and she
was as handsome as ever.
" I wish that you had never met with these people," she said
20 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
at length, " Who knows but something may happen to you
while on expeditions of a dangerous nature ? and then ray husband
would be blamed by your friends."
44 No fear of that," I answered, laughing. "My friends know
that I am able to take care of myself."
44 Hark/ she said, suddenly, directing her attention to the ta
ble. " Don Arturo is talking of hunting."
The old gentleman was listening as well as he was able to Al
len s details of the day s sport, and he grew enthusiastic as he
thought of the tramp through the woods, and the trophies to be
gained by a good shot.
u I go with you to-morrow, senors, and will do my share of
the labor. I used to know a hunting song which I fain would
sing when I awaken in the morning, but it has slipped my
brain."
44 But your fair wife may object to your exposing your precious
life," Allen said, with a glance towards the lady, which caused
the rich blood to mantle her cheeks until they seemed to burn.
44 I shall be very sorry if Don Arturo undertakes any such ex
pedition," she said.
44 Bah ! you women know not the pleasures of a hunter s life,"
cried the Spaniard, contemptuously. 4 My friends, we will start
at daylight ; we will kill many deer and much game, and when
we return my wife will welcome us as heroes, and wreathe gar
lands for the most successful hunter."
44 1 shall do nothing of the kind," she said, firmly. 4t If you
go, tis without my consent, and if you return "
44 Tis without your wish, hey ? " Allen said in English.
The lady turned to me for an explanation, and I could see by
her flashing eyes that she thought the remark one calculated to
humiliate her.
44 He says," I whispered, and Heaven forgive me the lie, -
" that if he had a wife as beautiful as yourself, all the deer that
roam in the forest would not tempt him from your presence."
The beauty pouted for a moment, as though she was not quite
satisfied with the interpretation; but just at that moment old
Maje, the best deer hound that belonged to the house, uttered a
sharp cry, arose from the corner where he had been lying in the
room, and looked wishfully in the faces of his masters.
A WARNING. 21
" What is it, Maje ? " Mr. Huckford asked, patting the animal
on his head.
The dog looked in his face with a wishful glance, and then ut
tered a prolonged howl.
"There s death in the night wind," Mr. Huckford said, thought
fully, pushing back his full glass untasted, and glancing uneasily at
the open windows.
" How do you know that?" Don Arturo asked, with a shudder,
as he rapidly crossed himself.
44 The dog can scent death an hour before it arrives, and he has
never yet deceived me by his warning. Pray Heaven that none
here are doomed."
" Amen ! May the saints preserve us. I wish that I was safe
at my residence in the city, for I like not the quiet gloom that
reigns here," muttered the valiant Spaniard.
44 Heaven overlooks us all," Mr. Huckford said, piously ; and
while speaking he drew a pair of pistols from his pocket, and ex
amined the charges. 4t You are as safe here as you would be
surrounded by a regiment of the best soldiers of Spain. If your
time had come, force could not save you."
44 Go find em, Maje," Allen said ; and the dog, with grave dig
nity, walked to an open window that faced the Pasig, put his paws
upon the sill, and snuffed the night air three or four times, but
without uttering a cry or manifesting uneasiness.
44 It s not in that quarter," the superintendents said, exchanging
glances.
The hound retired from the window, and went to the second one,
which faced the city. A line of sheds, under which workmen
prepared the hemp for the factory, was in view, enclosed by a high
wall built of baked adobes. An active man could have scaled it
without much trouble ; but the instant the yard was gained a
crowd of ferocious dogs, trained to make war upon the natives in
the night time, would have devoured an intruder before he could
have secured a foothold.
For five minutes the hound stood at the window, snuffing the
cool breeze, which just stirred the leaves of the mango trees in the
yard ; but at length he retired from the casement, and wandered
elowly around the room, as though he was uncertain what to do
next.
44 Senor Allen, is there any danger ?" inquired the Spaniard,
22 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
who seemed sobered by the sudden stillness of the room, and the
mysterious proceedings of the dog.
44 We hope not," replied Allen, with an attempt to seem indif
ferent.
" I care not for myself, but for my wife," Don Arturo mut
tered, with a glance towards the lady which she seemed not to
heed.
44 There is no danger," Allen said, cheerfully ; " and even if
there is, we are strong, and can protect her as well as ourselves.
Let her retire with her husband to her room, and in the morning
she will smile at the perils of a night at Santa Mesa."
" Yes, yes ; let her go to her room ! " cried the Don, eagerly ;
but whether to shelter himself or his wife was then a difficult
question to solve.
44 I shall remain here," she answered, firmly ; and all our urging
could not change her resolution.
" Perhaps the servants may account for the singular conduct
of the dog," Allen remarked, as he strode across the room, and
opened the door leading to their apartment.
He called the names of the men, but there was no answer.
The lights in the room were extinguished, and the fire upon the
hearth was out.
The hound had followed his master to the door, and after a
snuff or two, uttered a fierce howl, and attempted to dash into
the vacated room ; but Allen prevented him, and shutting the door,
bolted it.
" They are there," he said, in answer to Mr. Huckford s look
of inquiry.
" Then we must arm ourselves, and if an attempt is made, re
pel it," was the firm response.
Allen seized a light, and from a closet brought out a miscellane
ous collection of arms, from which each man selected what he
desired, and began to prepare them carefully.
Don Arturo looked on in astonishment, but did not offer to as
sist us.
44 Tell me what all this means, Senor Allen?" the lady asked?
somewhat bewildered at the novelty of our preparations.
44 It means, lady, that the Jadrones have heard that a lot of
silver was brought here to-day, and they have a strong desire
to possess it. The scamps are already in the house, and must
LADRONES. 23
have entered while your carriage was occupying the attention
of the boys at the gate."
" But the servants should have given an alarm," she said.
" The servants may have given the information, and therefore
expect to reap a portion of the benefits of the robbery ; or they
may have been warned, and fled hours ago ; again, they may be
bound hand and foot, and kept quiet by means of a knife. At
any rate, I would not swear that the fellows are not concerned
with the ladrones."
Even while Allen was speaking, he was employed in ramming
down bullets and fitting caps to his guns and rifles.
" This is dreadful," murmured Donna Teresa, pale as death.
"It is all your fault you would come here to-night !" ex
claimed the Spaniard, pettishly.
" Peace," she said, so sternly, and with such a flash of her eyes,
that the husband held his tongue, and watched the proceedings
with considerable apprehension.
" Now, then, out with the light, and let us wait patiently the
result," Mr. Huckford said ; and in obedience to his orders we sat
in the dark for half an hour, and yet not a sound was to be heard
excepting the dogs in the yard ; and they appeared uneasy, and
growled at intervals, as though not exactly satisfied with the state
of affairs.
I took a seat by the side of Donna Teresa, and I suppose that
she mistook me for her husband, for I felt one of her hands laid
lightly upon my shoulder, while the other sought my grasp, and
remained there, with pulse beating much more regular than my
own, although her flesh was full as warm to the touch ; and I
must confess that I felt as though suffering from a fever. I did
not dare to undeceive her. I sat there and listened and held her
hand, and thought that I should not object to remaining in the
same position through the night.
" Hush ! " whispered Mr. Huckford ; " I hear the villains stir
in the next room."
" May the saints forgive me all my sins," murmured the Span
iard, who was seated a few steps from his wife.
I supposed that she would withdraw her hand from mine when
he spoke ; but she must have been busy with her thoughts, and
not noticed the remark.
I placed my pistols in my belt, and moved my chair silently and
24 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
carefully nearer the lady, for she leaned heavily upon my chair
and seemed to sleep. Quietly I put my right arm around her
waist, and drew her towards me ; and then upon my shoulder fell
her head with its profusion of hair, that was soft as silk, and wavy
as Manila Bay during a typhoon. I felt her sweet breath upon
my cheek, and the temptation was too great to be overcome ; if
all the moralists in the world had lectured me upon the enormity
of my crime, I could not have resisted pressing my lips to hers.
" There they are," again cried Mr. Huckford ; but I have an
impression that he was mistaken that time, for the noise sounded
to me like a kiss.
The lady did not move her head from my shoulder ; but the
devil instigated Don Arturo to think of his wife just at that mo
ment.
"Where are you, Teresa?" he asked; " at this hour of dan
ger I should be by your side."
I expected that the beautiful head would be withdrawn from
my shoulder with a slight scream ; but to my surprise it remained
where I had placed it, and the owner exclaimed,
" Remain where you are, dear, for I fear, if you move, that you
will betray your presence to the ladrones, in case they are listen
ing for a moment."
u And Guillermo where is he?" queried the old gentleman,
with friendly interest.
I was just about to speak, when Allen came to my rescue, and
prevented my whereabouts from being known to the husband.
" lie is sleeping in a chair near me," Allen said ; and then
continued in English, " I hope that the old fellow hasn t got a
lucifer match in his pocket ; if he has, you d better look to your
self, my friend."
I made no reply ; but I pressed the beautiful form which I held
in my arms closer and closer, and my heart beat wildly, when I
found that she did not resist.
At this instant a hand was laid lightly upon the latch of the
door leading to the servants apartments, and a gentle pressure
was made to force the door open. Not succeeding, all remained
quiet for a few minutes, during which interval I could hear the
beating of the lady s heart.
" What will be their next move ? " Allen asked.
" I suppose that they will stave the door open, or else batter
WAITING. 25
down the partition. If we only knew how many there were
I should feel like giving battle without this delay," Mr. Huckford
paid.
I thought of a plan that would be successful ; but I did not
dare communicate it while I was sitting, for fear of revealing
my position to Don Arturo. As delay was dangerous, I gently
withdrew my arms from the lady, and bestowing a second kiss on
her red lips, crept silently across the room to Allen.
" There s some one moving across the floor ! " cried Don Artu
ro, in alarm.
" Be quiet, my friend ; tis but the dog," Allen said ; and the
explanation was satisfactory, although I heard the Spaniard
mutter,
" I had no idea he was so large."
it
Let us not wait for the ladrones to begin the attack," I whis
pered to Allen ; " because it s possible that they may send for
recruits, finding us prepared for battle. We shall be kept here
in a state of suspense until daylight, and perhaps while we are
nodding, an entrance may be effected."
" The only thiug that we can do is to escape, and leave the
building for the scamps to plunder, for which they would thank
us, and repeat the experiment the first time that money was known
to be in the house. That won t do, as long as there s three able-
bodied men ready to fight a little," was Allen s response.
"But what say you to calling in the dogs quietly, and after
they are all mustered, open the door and let them war with the
black scamps. We can use our pistols, and by firing at random
help the brutes considerably."
Allen thought of the plan for a moment, and at length suggested
it to Mr. Huckford, who agreed that unless the natives mustered
in large numbers it would be successful.
The only thing he feared was, that the ladrones would make a
rush and carry the building before we could repel them. We
at length convinced the old gentleman that the rush of dogs
would so dismay the ruffians, that safety would be sought in flight,
and that all attempts to rob the house would be abandoned.
** Let the lady and her husband retire to the closet, and we will
try the experiment," Mr. Huckford said. u The dogs will be
likely, in their excitement, to bite them instead of our enendesj
26 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
and that we must guard against. The lady is too fair to suffej
ill treatment."
Allen lighted a lamp, and its beams fell upon the terrified coun
tenance of the Spaniard, who, seated some distance from his wife,
was waiting for the termination of events, and counting his beads
with trembling hands ; while the lady, with her dark mantilla
drawn around her neck and shoulders, and her form straight as
an arrow, sat without manifesting visible signs of fear, although
but a few feet from us were ruffians who would not have re
spected her high position, beauty, or wealth, and would have torn
her diamond ear-rings from her ears, and laughed at her cries of
pain, had she been sensible of the indignity.
There was a striking contrast between the woman and the man,
and I forgave her the look of contempt which she bestowed upon
Arturo, even if there was but little conjugal tenderness in it.
" Three silver candlesticks and a gold one will I give to the
Church of the Saviour if I escape from this gang of thieves with
out a scratch, or loss of money," muttered the Don, as Allen ap
proached him.
" Then come with me without a moment s delay. Guillermo,
look to the lady and explain our plans. She can understand them,
and will remain quiet."
I needed but a few words to relate our project, and she listened
so calmly that I could have embraced her for her heroism, had
I had a brother s or a husband s right to have done so.
In the large apartment where we were besieged, and which was
on the second floor, the lower part being devoted to business pur
poses, was a closet where clothes were hung, and many valuable
odds and ends thrust for convenience and security.
It was large enough to hold half a dozen persons as long as
they were inclined to assume a perpendicular position, while two
could sit upon chairs, and experience no inconvenience, even if
compelled to remain there for hours.
I removed all the weapons which the closet contained, for I
cared that Don Arturo might not be the most proper person to
ose one in case of excitement, and then I handed the lady to her
allotted place, and was rewarded by a look that bespoke volumes
of gratitude.
" You will be careful, Guillermo," she whispered.
" Do not fear, lady. I will sell my life before the ruffians shall
THE DOGS. 27
reach your retreat ; " and I think I meant what I said, for some-
Low, I began to look upon Donna Teresa no longer in the light
of an acquaintance, cold and distant, but as a lovely woman,
capable of inspiring a stoic with passion.
" I mean not that," she cried, hastily. " I allude to your own
danger. Be not rash and headstrong. I would rather give half
my fortune than know that blood is to be spilt."
" I llgive five candlesticks," muttered her husband, who thought
that she was beseeching the saints for protection. " Five candle
sticks one of solid silver, and the others excellent imitations.
If that offer don t save us, there s little use in having saints."
A noise in the adjoining room, as though the ladrones had
thrown off all disguise, and were determined to carry our quar
ters by assault, quickened our motions. With a hurried word of
courage to the lady I closed the door, and was just in time to see
Allen admit six huge dogs, of the mastiff and bloodhound breed,
with strong jaws and powerful chests, ferocious as wolves starved
for food, and capable of tracking a native even into the busiest
portions of the city.
They prowled around the room with sullen looks, and even
appeared anxious to effect an entrance into the closet where we
had concealed the Spaniard and his wife.
" They are in a delightful humor to-night," Allen whispered,
" and will bite and tear like tigers. They scent the black devils,
and are eager for a fray as the deer hound, which has to stand
back when the others are disposed for a fight."
The brutes did not utter a whimper to give warning to the
rogues of the surprise which we intended, being kept in subjection
by the short whip which Allen held in his hand.
" We are all ready," Allen said, addressing Mr. Huckford ; and
he was just about to give the signal for the bolt to be withdrawn
from the ^loor, when a tremendous blow was struck against the
partition, that caused the building to shake from its foundation.
" They are showing their hands in earnest," muttered Allen.
" If we would only run for it, I dare say that we should find the
road free of our obliging friends, and they would only be too glad
to get rid of us."
" The instant the door is opened," Mr. Huckford said, finding
that the dogs were no longer disposed to remain quiet, " give the
ficamps a broadside from your pistols. As for me," he continued,
28 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
holding up an old musket, with a bore like a blunderbuss, " I have
put in a few handfuls of shot here, which I expect will scatter
and do execution. The Lord forgive me if I am acting wrong."
The dogs were collected near the door, and watched with
glowing eyeballs for the signal to commence the attack. The
light in our room was extinguished to prevent the ladrones from
picking us off before we had time to serve them with the surprise
which we had prepared, and we ranged ourselves in such a man
lier that there was no danger of our shooting each other.
Again was there a stout blow upon the partition, and I heard
the boards crack, and the dust descend in showers upon our
heads.
The dogs, no longer seeing the whip, uttered simultaneous
howls of rage, and dashed against the door as though they de
sired to be at the bloody work without delay.
" Let them go," shouted Mr. Huckford ; and at the word the
bolt was slipped, and the door thrown open.
" Seize them ! " we yelled ; but the dogs did not wait for the
words. With ferocious yells they sprang into the room where
the ladrones were assembled, and then, for a moment, I was
stunned by the discharge of our pistols, which we fired in rapid
succession without provoking a single shot in return.
The yells of the frightened Mestizos, as they sought to escape
from the fierce charge, and the groans of the wounded, who had
fallen and were trampled under foot, were frightful. Down the
stone staircase we could hear them stumble, as they rushed over
each other ; but loud above all, the savage growls of the dogs
as they bit, and shook, and worried their victims, were most ap
palling.
At length all was quiet, excepting the fierce snarling of the
dogs ; and when we ventured to light a lamp and inspect the
scene of the slaughter, it made our hearts turn sick to witness
the spectacle.
It required the use of the whip, used with no gentle hand, to
beat off the brutes, and turn them loose in the yard, where they
attempted to follow the footsteps of the flying enemy, but were
prevented by the high walls, over which the natives had sprung
with but little difficulty, and made their escape in the wilderness
beyond.
On every side were wounded natives, bleeding and mangled bj
A SAD SCENE. 29
dog and bullet, while the brick floor was slippery with blood, and
covered with remnants of clothing, torn from the persons of the
robbers, as they sought to escape from their ferocious enemies.
Pieces of black cloth, about the size of the face, with apertures
for the mouth, eyes, and nose, were also found in abundance,
which showed that the ladrones had taken their usual course to
keep their countenances from being known in case of a collision
where there were lights.
As there was no danger of another attack that night, we re
leased the lady and her husband from confinement ; but the
Don was too terrified to utter any words excepting praise
for his wonderful escape ; and the only way we could bring
him to his senses was to pour half a dozen glasses of wine down
his throat, and then make him take up his quarters upon a mat
tress in the sitting-room, which was free of all marks of violence,
and much more comfortable thaa a distant chamber, after the
scenes through which we had passed, and were still to pass.
As for Donna Teresa, she was composed as a heroine ; and I
think that she would have even offered her services to attend the
wounded, had she not known that we would have rejected them.
Humanity demanded that we should relieve the sufferings of
the miserable wretches, who were crawling upon the floor, moan
ing for aid, as much as possible ; but we could do but little until
daylight, as none of us liked the idea of driving or paddling to
Manila for a physician at that time of night, and run the risk of
getting murdered to pay us for our charity. But we did the best
we could ; and while binding up the fellows wounds, we were
careful to get a good view of their faces, and found, as we ex
pected, that many of them were workmen who had been em
ployed in the factory ever since its commencement, and received
wages which they could not obtain at any other business. One
of the wounded men in particular, named Maquil, who had been
appointed as a sort of overseer of a division of spinners, and who
had always manifested the utmost attachment for Mr. Huckford
and Mr. Allen, was found with a charge of shot through his right
leg, and several bad-looking marks upon his arms and body, where
the dogs had buried their teeth, and in one or two instances, torn
whole pieces of live flesh from his limbs.
" There is a man," said Mr. Huckford, pointing to the groan
ing wretch, " who has always received favors at our hands ; yet
30 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
if I question him in regard to his being here, he will lie most out
rageously. Listen and hear him."
" You are badly hurt, Maquil," my host said.
" Si, senor," replied the fellow, with an attempt at a smile,
which was sadly out of place.
" And you came with the others to rob your old friends ? "
" O, no, senor ; I came to help you, but arrived too late to get
the ladrones to retire. I did not hear of the attack until an hour
since, and then hastened here to save or die with you. The senor
has beeu kind to Maquil, and he don t forget it. The saints have
had you in their keeping."
" Did you ever hear a cooler lie told in your life? " Mr. Huck-
ford asked, in English ; and I must confess that the fellow s im
pudence staggered me, but I should have believed him if I had
not known the treacherous character of the natives.
" Can you help the soldiers arrest the ladrones who escaped? "
Mr. Huckford asked, in a low tone, so that those who were in
the room should not overhear the remark.
" Shall I get paid for it? " the wretch asked.
" Perhaps."
" Then I think that I can ; but I must have the silver before I
perform the work."
We left the liar and traitor to his sufferings, for it would have
been useless to have induced the government to send in pursuit,
even if good evidence had been offered, exposing the principal
actors in the drama. We could only feel grateful that we had
repelled the attack, and inflicted such injury upon our assailants
as would cause them to remember it for many days, and be cau
tious how they struck a blow in future.
" Donna Teresa feels a little nervous ; perhaps you had better
comfort and cheer her," Allen said, while we were clearing the
room of the injured.
" What can I do for her happiness ? " I asked.
" Well, that is a question that I am unable to answer, and it
is probable that she would be in the dark as much as myself, if
interrogated," was the dry reply.
I saw that I could be spared from the work which I had helped
perform ; so cleansed the stains from my hands, and once mor*
sought the presence of the lady, whom I found seated by the sido
of her husband ; and the latter, as though to show his contempt
AN INTERVIEW. 31
for the danger through which we had passed, was snoring most
unmelodiously, having drank freely of wine to drown all recollec
tion of the fight.
Donna Teresa was leaning her face upon her hands, and did
not see me until I spoke.
" There is no longer any danger," I said ; " the ladrones have
fled, and will not return. You are as safe here as you would be
in Manila, surrounded by a regiment of the line."
" And for my life, and that of my husband, I have to thank
you and the other brave Americans. I should like to live in a
country that produces such brave men," she said ; and by the dim,
light I thought that she directed a look of contempt at the slug
gard by her side. " Tell me of your home," she continued, lay
ing one of her delicate hands upon my own, which was hard and
rough through arduous sports in the forest and mountains ; " I
would know more of America than I do ; I wish to hear of its
customs and inhabitants, its climate and ladies."
" What shall I tell you of the latter? " I asked her.
" Tell me of their beauty, for I know that they must be hand
some."
" They are fair," I replied, " and very delicate ; for our
young ladies entertain an idea that health is not compatible with
beauty."
Donna Teresa opened her large eyes with astonishment, and
was inclined to be incredulous. Enjoying the most perfect health
herself, and taught from an early age that illness was only to be
avoided by plenty of exercise in the open air, to which add bath
ing and a regular diet, it is no wonder that she was inclined to
pity the women of America, and wonder that they should fear
the air at any hour excepting the night.
Time flew rapidly while we were thus engaged, and I was
surprised to see the light turn pale, and the gray shadows of
morning steal into the room, while I* supposed that it was near
midnight, and that three or four hours still remained for con
versation.
u I am sorry to disturb your tete-a-tete," Allen said, rousing
me from my dream of love and happiness ; " but it is necessary
that some one should proceed to Manila and inform the mayor
of what has taken place, and request a military commissioner to
35 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
^
visit the factory without delay, and remove the dead and wounded
to the hospital."
The lady started at the sound of his voice, and hastily drew
her hand from mine ; and I could see that she colored to her eye
brows, when she caught Allen s look of mischief.
" The Don has slept most soundly, I should judge, if he has
Fnored at that rate all night," Allen said, with a malicious grin,
which we were too wise to notice. " If we can start your hus
band, senora, he w^ould confer a favor on us by proceeding
direct to Manila, and stating the particulars of the attack. He
could benefit us much, and save us thousands of questions, which
as foreigners we should have to answer, but which he, being so
well known, would escape. Dare you wake him, lady ? " Allen
asked.
She looked her disdain at the question, before she replied.
" Tis a piece of work that I leave for the most robust," she
answered. " Shake the senor, and not lightly, for he sleeps
soundly."
Allen followed her advice ; but the husband only tossed his
arms about his head, as though fighting desperately with over
powering numbers.
" Ho, Don Arturo, awake ! we need your aid ! " shouted Allen.
" One glass more, and the last. To the health of my wife,"
murmured the sleeping man.
" You see, madam, that he thinks of you always. He is a
constant husband is he not? "
She did not reply, and Allen seemed ashamed of the question,
for he laid violent hands upon the Don, and in spitf of growls
and protestations, soon had him in a sitting position.
.** You sleep sound, Don Arturo, after your hard night s work.
Come, drink a single glass of wine, and then you will be
thoroughly awake."
The old gentleman made no objection, and the liquor seemed
to revive him.
" I dreamed," he said, " that I had fought desperately with
ladrones, and that I had slain half a dozen in defending my
wife."
" The dream was more real than such fancies are apt to be.
Come, we want you to proceed to Manila, and lay the circum-
A DISAPPOINTMENT. 33
stances of the case before the mayor, and then hasten back with
a physician."
" My horses and servant," muttered the Don.
" Are in the yard and waiting. Your coachman pretends that
he slept through the fight without hearing anything of it ; but we
may believe as much of that as we please."
The Spaniard looked towards his wife, as though undecided
what course to pursue.
u Leave her with us until you return. She is nervous, and
needs rest," Allen said.
" No doubt, no doubt ! " Don Arturo exclaimed, as he rolled
his rich blanket around his form, and prepared to start ; * she
feared that I would expose my life to the knives of the assassins,
and I believe that I was rather reckless during the fight. I will
return in two hours time, and then talk further of the matter.
I will have soldiers here to investigate, or I ll give the mayor a
piece of my mind that will last for a twelvemonth. Farewell,
Teresa, and don t be uneasy at my absence ; " and with this part
ing show of tenderness, the Spaniard vanished, and in a few-
minutes w r e heard his carriage rolling over the hard road on its
way to Manila.
44 Your room has been prepared, senora," Allen said, " and
as you have passed a sleepless and terrible night, perhaps it would
be better if you refresh yourself with a little rest."
Even if she was disposed to decline the offer, which I hoped
she would, she could not overcome Allen s solicitations, and
therefore retired with a stately grace that was charming to con
template, while her adieus were uttered in a voice sweet as a
first-class dulce.
" That is hardly fair," I muttered, as she disappeared ; " I was
anticipating an interview two hours long "
" So I supposed ; but believe me, it is safer to have her in her
chamoer with you on the outside, than to be sitting within a few-
feet of each other during the husband s absence. Too many pry
ing eyes would watch your motions, and carry reports to Don
Arturo, and it would need but a Word to rouse his jealousy to
fever heat."
" But we are alone," T said.
" We are now, but in a few minutes our servants will return,
and they are quick to observe, you know."
3
34 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
^
" Do you mean to say tLat you will receive the scamps, after
they deserted you as they did last night ? "
" To be sure," Allen answered ; " they are acquainted with
our ways and wants, and even if we change, we should get men
just as bad, if not worse, besides having the trouble of teaching
the fellows their duty."
" But the rascals have been leagued with the robbers," I sug
gested.
" To tell yon the truth," my companion replied, " I am in
clined to think that they were ; but we can t prove it, and of
course the rascals will deny that they knew an attack was to be
made. I hear Mr. Huckford at them already. Let us go and
listen to their excuses."
We passed to the room used for the kitchen, and there saw
three knaves, with marks of astonishment upon their faces, listen
ing to the scolding which the superintendent was administering,
and looking at the wounded and dead Mestizos, yet there was
no sign of sympathy for their countrymen, because they had made
an attack and lost, and therefore were not in a condition to share
the plunder which they expected.
u Which of you informed the gang that there was silver in the
house?" Mr. Huckford demanded.
" The senor is laughing at us," they whined. " We love the
senor and his friends, and would have given information had we
known that an attack was expected."
" Why did you leave the house? "
" We knew that there was to be a dance the other side of the
river, and we went, because we supposed that the senors would
not require our services longer. We feel sorry at what has hap
pened, and will be more careful in future."
" We will pardon you on one condition," Mr. Huckford said.
" The senor is kind let him mention the favor that he
desires."
" Discover the name of the ladrone who led the attack last
night, and where he can be found."
With one accord the scamps declared that they knew nothing
of the business, and that they should excite the hostility of their
neighbors if they made any such movement ; but we took no
notice of their protestations, and pretended that the soldiers whom
A DESPERADO. 35
we had sent for would seize them as witnesses, and at length
banish them from the island as murderers.
Then they hesitated and whispered together, and at length re
quested permission to tdlk with the wounded men, which we
granted ; and after the lapse of half an hour, they reported that
the man who had planned the attack and led it, was one Juan
Baptiste, a.fellow who had been the terror of the neighborhood
for the last two years, and who held the natives in such subjec
tion that there was not one who would refuse him a helping baud
through fear.
The Spaniards dreaded the fellow, for he had inflicted much
injury upon the wealthy residents of Santa Mesa, and many at
tempts had been made to capture him, yet without success ; arid
there was even a reward of two thousand dollars offered for his
apprehension at one time, for a daring robbery and murder, which
he had alone committed some ten months before the attack upon
the factory. The natives would gladly have betrayed the rascal
for that sum, but were fearful of the vengeance of his friends, who
shared his spoils, and warned him of danger when it was near.
" Where does this man find shelter? " Allen asked.
" He has lately lived iu the swamps of Sar. Macati, where no
one dares venture but those acquainted," was the reply of the
servants, with ominous shakes of their head, as they thought of the
dangers.
Allen motioned me to accompany him to another room, where
we could converse without danger of being overheard.
" Well," he said, " what do you think of allowing Juan to con
tinue his career unmolested? "
u How can we help ourselves? " I asked.
" By following him to the swamp, and making an effort for his
capture."
" The undertaking is dangerous and difficult," I replied.
" Not so dangerous as it appears at the first glance. We can
take our three best dogs, and they will follow him through the
swamps, and corner him, unless he is smarter than I think he is."
I reflected on the matter for a moment, and then consented to
accompany Allen on his disagreeable expedition ; but first it was
necessary that we should secure the consent of Mr. Huckford, and
that we should start without delay.
The superintendent was unwilling that we should incur the
36 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
risk ; but at length Allen talked him over, and we made ready for
the journey, taking good care that the servants should know noth
ing of our proposed expedition, for fear that they should manage,
in some way, to communicate the alarm, and thus defeat our
object.
We hastily swallowed our breakfast long before the sun was
visible, and then equipped ourselves in costumes suited for the
business which we were about to enter upon ; for the character
cf the swamp was too well known to us to expect to find easy
travel, and no obstacles of a serious nature.
We wore blouses made of linen cloth, which fitted tight to
our bodies, while for pants we selected the thickest that we owned,
and found that they were none too strong before our return. To
protect our feet we wore heavy sea boots, with long tops, into
which we thrust our pants, as much to keep them out of the way
as to prevent snakes from seeking a refuge on our bodies, and
rendering themselves disagreeable.
Our next business was to see that our rifles were properly
loaded, and that our knives were in good order ; and by the time
we had accomplished that task, Mr. Huckford joined us, holding
in his hand a shoe made of untanned leather, and of monstrous
dimensions.
u I found this in the yard near the wall," he said, " and I am
told that it is the property of Juan, who in his flight dropped it.
I think that the story is correct, for I recollect of seeing no native
in these parts who has so large a foot. It will be useful for
the dogs, in finding the fellow s trail."
While Allen and Mr. Huckford were discussing the subject, I
slipped quietly out of the room, and knocked timidly at the door
of Donna Teresa s chamber. I expected that she was asleep ; but
to my surprise, she opened the door, and looked somewhat as
tonished when she saw my costume.
" How now, Guillermo ! " she said ; " what is the meaning of
your strange dress ? "
a I shall be absent from the factory for a few hours," I replied,
" and I desired to pay my respects to ono whom I esteem so
highly before I go, fearing that you may be in Manila when I
return."
"But where are you going? " she continued, her color slightly
changing wjiile she spoke.
LEAVE TAKING. 3?
" But a few miles from here. I shall return before night, and
hope to have a story of interest to relate to you this evening, if
you will promise not to leave the factory."
" T promise," she said, as she laid her hand upon mine, in
proof of her sincerity ; and I thought that I felt a gentle pressure,
\vhich I ventured to return. u You will not expose your life while
absent, for if you should, Don Arturo will be miserable. Remem
ber that he takes a great interest in your welfare."
I promised % and yet I was still reluctant to leave her, for she
looked so melancholy that all my resolutions were forgotten, and
I was more than half inclined to tell her that I loved her to dis
traction, and to ask her compassion.
u Say no more now, but go ! " she exclaimed, hurriedly, hastily
withdrawing her hand, which I had forgotten to relinquish.
I turned to discover the cause of her alarm, and saw one of the
servants hastily retreating through a door which was nearly op
posite to where we stood. I ran after him to discover if he had
listened to our conversation ; but before I could cross the corridor
he had disappeared, and further pursuit would have been useless.
I returned to the lady, and assured her that no one was acting
the part of a spy on our actions ; but she did not seem much com
forted by the assurance, possibly because she knew the Mestizo
race better than I did.
" There is not one of them in the house," she said, hurriedly,
u but would sell us for a piece of silver, unless he .thought he
could make more by keeping silent. Not," she added, with
extreme hauteur, " that I have anything to conceal from my hus
band ; but he is old and jealous, and trifles disturb him. Now go,
and let me meet you at dinner, or even before, if possible."
She extended her hand as she spoke, and after a warm pressure
I left her, more in love than ever, and inwardly cursing the ex
pedition which was to take me from her society, even for a few
hours. I found Allen in the court-yard waiting my appearance ;
but he made no remark, and in a few minutes we had the dogs
which we desired selected from the pack, and put them on the
scent.
The animals understood their business, for they had been trained
when young, so that we found no difficulty in getting upon the
track of Juan, or, at least, the owner of the .shoe.
The dogs led towards the river, which was about one hundred
88 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
and fifty yards from the factory ; and as Allen had expected that
would be their course, he had ordered a banco to be stationed at
the landing, so that we could cross without delay.
The brutes, after gaining the edge of the water, did not utter
impatient howls, but stood there in sullen silence, with their noses
to the ground, or else looking wishfully to the opposite shore, as
though longing to be again upon the trail.
" They are in splendid humor this morning," Allen said, as he
patted old Maje upon the head, and noted the fieroe looks of the
animals. " They tasted blood last night, and now they wish for
more, and I sincerely hope they will be gratified ; for if we can
get hold of Juan we shall put a stop to this -system of pilfering
which has been carried on for years, and yet never received a check
excepting when administered by the people at the factory."
While Allen was speaking, he called the dogs into the banco,
and then we shoved off, and paddled across the stream. We
preferred to labor at the oars, so that the natives would not
suspect our mission, and communicate it to the one we were in
search of.
Upon gaining the right bank of the Pasig, the dogs were sent
on shore, but they gave no indication that the robber had landed
at that point ; so, leaving the animals to follow along the bank,
we reached San Pedro Macati, which was not more than half a
mile distant from the great swamp, where it was reported the
Dutlaw kept secreted.
CHAPTER II.
THE SEARCH FOR THE OUTLAW. AN OBSTRUCTION. THK
MONKEYS. THE LADRONE. THE FIGHT.
" LOOK at the dogs," Allen remarked, a few moments before
we landed ; and by their actions it was evident that they had got
on the scent, and only waited for the command to lead us in the
direction of the swamp. " The rascal must have swam the
river, and then escaped under cover of darkness to his retreat.
ON THE TRAIL. OV
Probably he is sleeping off the effect of his night s labor, so that,
if we are lucky, we shall take him unawares."
We secured our canoe, then gave the impatient dogs the signal
to start, and with heads lowered to the earth, they followed each
other, stopping every few minutes and looking ba ck at us with
angry glances for not moving at their speed, until the river was
lost to view, and we began to enter a wil d and uncultivated region,
where pedestrianism was extremely difficult, and where our long-
legged boots began to be of service.
" Here is where we are to take leave of the sun for the
present," Allen said, calling to the dogs, and checking their
course at the very edge of a dense jungle, which did not look
very inviting, and seemed as though it was capable of harbcring
all the ladrones in the country, as well as all the wild animals
and serpents. " Have you a fancy for visiting convents? " Allen
asked, while we stood resting upon our rifles.
" That is a question I cannot answer, simply because I never
saw the interior of one," I replied.
" Then some leisure day we will visit the large building which
you see in the distance, and which is called the Convent of San
Pedro, and is under the charge of a holy father named Bon-
veuturo. He is a particular friend of mine, and entertains for
me a profound respect, because I have sent him to bed on several
occasions with more of a load in his stomach than his head could
carry."
" He is not a believer in cold water, then ? " I asked.
" He believe in cold water ? " repeated Allen. " Why, he hasn t
made use of a drop except to float his banco, and make coffee, for
ten years ; and if he lives ten years -longer, he will have consumed
more wine than any man on the island. He is a jolly old fellow,
and can sing an amorous song or mournful ditty with admirable
grace. I shall be happy in making you acquainted."
" Provided we return in safety from this expedition," I mut
tered, as we shouldered our guns ; and shoving aside the tangled
boughs, we entered the great swamp, which was rarely visited by
the Spaniards, for they entertained a correct idea that there was
danger in its dark recesses and stagnant pools of water, and that
it was safer to suffer the visits of ladrones than to expose their
lives by hunting them in such a suspicious place.
The dogs led the way with glowing eyes, and we followed aa
40 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
fast as possible ; but the soil was soft and spongy, and although it
received the impression of our feet, the tracks were soon erased,
or filled with dark water, rank with vegetation and slime. Wo
were positive that we were on the right track, for we frequently
met with broken twigs, and a brief examination showed that the
sap was still fresh and running, and that they must have been
disturbed but a few hours before. I also entertained an impres
sion that the course we were pursuing had been passed over many
times, for we were comparatively free of briers and underbrush,
as contrasted with the foliage each side of us.
On we passed, bending low at times to escape the branches of
trees, or else cautiously peering into a thicket to discover the
cause of the sudden rustling which we detected among the leaves,
and, perhaps, while we listened, hearing the low, angry his s of a
snake as it glided into the darker recesses of the swamp, or
plunged with sudden motion into the pools of stagnant water, and
with head erect, wriggled to its hole, or disappeared amid the
bushes.
Sometimes it was necessary for us to leap from knoll to knoll
to escape the bog-holes, or else crawl upon our hands and knees
through thickets almost impenetrable, while the dogs took the
easiest course, and swam the broadest places, yet were never
baffled or thrown off the scent, and seeming more fierce and eager
as we proceeded.
Suddenly Allen stopped and examined marks that attracted his
attention, and we had no difficulty in tracing the footprint of a
man who had passed that way barefooted ; and by comparing the
shoe which we carried with the impression upon tlie soil, we
found that they corresponded.
" Here, Maje, tell us what that is," Allen said, addressing the
hound, which hardly stopped to take the scent, when the brute
looked in our faces and uttered a low, peculiar cry. " That will
do, old boy, that will do. We want as little noise as possible in
this place. I have a notion that too much would defeat the object
of our visit. Go on, now, and be a good dog."
The animal seemed to comprehend the words, and trotted along
with his usual dignity, while we followed as rapidly as possible,
until suddenly the dogs uttered a suppressed howl, and, with tails
between their legs, retreated towards us.
" There is danger in our path of some kind," muttered Allen,
AN OBSTRUCTION. 41
stopping and scrutinizing the trees in our vicinity ; but nothing
was to be seen, and we attempted to urge the hounds along, but
they obstinately refused to proceed, and nothing but fear of
the whip prevented them from breaking out in a chorus of howls,
which would have alarmed the person we were in search of.
" Remain where you are for a moment, and have your rifle
ready for instant service, while I make a short circuit, and see
if I can find out the trouble. Don t fire on any account, unless
compelled to, and then be careful that your shot tells."
I did not like the idea of being separated from Allen, but I
wisely kept my fears to myself, although I watched his form until
lost to view among the thickets, and half resolved to follow, on
the ground that it was expedient for us to keep together in so
dangerous a place.
The dogs had left me for the company of my friend, and I was
alone, with a death-like stillness reigning over the swamp, and
my imagination conjuring up all sorts of diseased fancies. I
leaned against a tall tree, with leaves so thick that the sky could
not be seen above it, and awaited the return of my companion ;
but while I meditated upon the madness of the undertaking be
fore me, I saw a sturdy limb of a tree move and shake as though
agitated by a violent blast of wind.
I did not stop to think that when we entered the swamp the
air was quite calm, and no sign of a gale visible, because
rny thoughts were otherwise engaged ; and I don t know that I
should have moved from my position under the tree, had not a
chattering muukey upon a sapling, a few rods off, suddenly ap
peared, and after staring at me for a moment, made a gesture of
fright, and with a fierce cry disappeared.
I started in the direction that the animal had taken ; but before
I had gone two steps, the tree, against which I had leaned, was
shaken from its trunk to the topmost branch, and a rain of
leaves fell upon my head. Then I began to suspect that I was
in a dangerous neighborhood ; and hastily glancing over my head,
saw something, I could not tell at first what, whirling among the
leaves, twisting and turning like gleams of lightning, and crack
ing the tender branches in its movements, and showering down
leaves like flakes of snow.
I think that I was not more than five seconds in placing the dis
tance of a rod between myself and the tree, and I don t remember
42 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
to have once turned back to see whether I was clear of the
danger that threatened me. What it was I knew not, but sus
pec ted that a wild animal had taken possession of the tree, and
was calculating the propriety of making a meal of me, when its
eagerness caused an alarm.
I was not, on the whole, sorry when Allen made his appear
ance and reported that the path was clear, but that the dogs still
manifested symptoms of alarm, and appeared ill at ease for ani
mals like them.
"You don t look any too lively," Allen said, after a glance at
my face ; " what is the matter ? Don t feel tired do you ? Take
a drink of this ; " and he offered me his flask.
I did not refuse, although, while the bottle was at my lips, I
kept my eyes fixed upon the tree, expecting to see it move every
moment.
" It strikes me," I said, returning the flask, " that the cause
of this alarm is in yonder tree, and that the leaves hide some
thing disagreeable to view. If you don t believe it, go and
look."
" I will do better than that ; I will send Maje, for he seems as
uneasy as a young woman without a lover, or a young wife with
an old husband."
The dog was directed to the tree, and made one or two efforts
to obey orders ; but all ended with a feeble yelp, and then he re
treated behind us.
" Blast the dogs ! have they lost all their courage ! " exclaimed
my friend, pettisbJy ; " they are frightened at their own shadows.
If they won t go I will ; " and cocking his rifle, he started for
ward, and gained a position where he could command a view of
the tree.
I tried to dissuade him, but without avail ; and for fear that he
would think me but an indifferent sportsman, I moved a few steps
in the direction which my friend had taken.
" I don t see anything," Allen exclaimed, with great self-ion-
fideuce ; but just at that moment the leaves of the tree rustled as
though some large body was moving amid the limbs. The dogs
uttered a suppressed howl, and retreated with their tails between
their legs, and I heard Allen say,
" By jingo, it is ! " an exclamation that was emphatic, but
hardly explanatory ; for he stepped back, regardless where he put
AN ANACONDA. 43
his feet ; and the consequence was, he fell into a miniature lake,
and for a moment disappeared from view, but only for a moment.
He came to the surface of the green water like a sperm whale
that had been exploring the domains of Neptune for an hour or
more, but, unlike the huge monster, he didn t look clean or com
fortable.
" Well, you are the dirtiest looking white man that I ever
saw," I cried ; and I could not restrain my laughter at his ludi
crous appearance.
" Curse appearances ! " he shouted, spitting the water from
his mouth, and scrambling upon dry land.
" I should say so, to judge from your looks. You have grown
green within five minutes."
" I can t stop to thank you for your complimentary remarks,"
Allen said, picking up his rifle, which he had thrown from his
hand when falling, and thereby saved it uninjured, " because in
yonder tree is secreted the biggest anaconda that I ever saw."
It was now my turn to jump ; and I think that I placed about
twenty feet between myself and the tree in less than two seconds,
and even then did not feel safe from harm.
" I should judge that the animal desires a breakfast off of the
dogs ; but perhaps he would not object to a man, if fat and
tender."
" And clean," I cried, " and you have described me to a hair.
There is no danger of the snake s troubling you, if at all particular
about his food, for your looks are repulsive."
Allen smiled in a ghastly manner, and walked to a favorable
position for getting a shot.
" What do you mean to do? " I asked.
" See how near I can come to the brute s eye at a rod s dis
tance," was the reply.
" Then I wish you a good morning, and will thank you to show
me the nearest way out of this mud-hole."
" There s not half as much danger as you imagine," my friend
said. " We can stand here and give the reptile a few shots, and
see how he looks when wounded."
Perhaps the anaconda understood his meaning, and was dis
posed to begin the fight, and not remain in the tree like a coward ;
for suddenly there was a whirl of the leaves, and they fell thickly
to the ground. While we were watching, a head with flaming
44 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
eyes was thrust from the foliage, and then followed a neck, and
about six feet of the body. The reptile s mouth was open, and
displayed two huge fangs set well back in the jaws, while a
tongue, red as blood, darted back and forth, as though extremely
desirous of tasting our flesh, and judging of it by actual masti
cation.
For a few minutes the head waved back and forth, with its
eyes still fixed upon us, or the dogs we couldn t tell which ;
and those ponderous jaws, opening and closing, as though de
sirous of commencing a fight, if we were really disposed to begin
one in earnest.
The spectacle was truly a fascinating one, and I could think
of nothing but how I should escape from such an unwelcome
neighbor without exchanging blows ; for I imagined, with good
cause, if the anaconda could show six feet of length by the
way of a joke, that there must be some twenty-five feet more out
of sight, coiled upon a limb, and ready to be used if occasion
should require it, although it rather seemed to me that we were
looked upon with some contempt, as though unworthy of much
attention.
Even the dogs were not disposed to provoke a fight, for they
kept at a respectful distance, and only showed their disgust by
snarling and exhibiting their teeth, powerless against a monster
possessing the strength and quickness of an anaconda.
A few yards from us a troop of monkeys were assembled,
watching our motions with some interest, and expressing their
hatred of the anaconda by furious grimaces and insulting gestures,
yet taking very good care not to venture near the snake, and al
ways skipping nimbly from their position to a better one, if the
reptile offered to move from the place where he had taken up his
quarters. One old fellow, who seemed aged enough to be the
grandfather of the party, was quite human in showing his dislike ;
and his family watched his proceedings with grave satisfaction,
and applauded him like a gang of first-class claqueurs.
The old monkey, after chattering for a few minutes in a high
key, would seem to choke with choler, and, unable to proceed for
want of breath, or words, would then shake his hairy fists at the
snake, and clutch handfuls of leaves and hurl them at the monster ;
and all the monkey tribe would chatter their applause, and en-
BNAKE AND MONKEYS. 45
courage the old fellow to renewed attempts at insulting their
enemy.
The snake seemed to care as much for the monkeys as he did
for the dogs, and continued to move his head back and forth, re
gardless of the leaves that were hurled at hirn % or the scoldings
he was receiving.
At length the gray-headed monkey exhausted his invectives,
and turned his attention to Allen and myself, and as near as we
could understand the language he used, lie seemed to say that we
were cowards and did not dare to assail our equals ; and we even got
pelted with leaves ; and what was of more account, so me of them
dropped upon our heads, which seemed to please the juvenile
members of the troop very much, for they chattered with delight,
and every one commenced plucking leaves and hurling them at
us ; and during the contest the snake was forgotten by our apish
friends, although I never lost sight of him for more than a second
at a time.
On any other occasion I could have enjoyed the contest, and
entered into the sport with a keen relish ; but knowing that a
twenty-five feet anaconda was regarding us attentively rather de
tracted from the amusement, for I did not know how soon the
snake would commence unfolding his tail, and desire close
quarters.
" Well, are we to stay here all day?" I asked, watching the
snake in the tree, " or shall we make the best of our way out of
this swamp?"
" We are hardly prepared to leave yet," Allen said, " because
we have not accomplished the object of our expedition. I in
tend to try the effect of a bullet on the snake s head, and then I
am with you."
As Allen spoke, the whole troop of monkeys remained silent ;
but the instant he concluded his remarks there was a wild clatter
of contempt, and leaves were again hurled at us with renewed
energy.
Allen raised his rifle, and waited for the snake to remain sta
tionary for a few moments, when he fired. There was a wild
scream of terror from the whole troop of chattering monkeys, and
they disappeared amid the trees like lightning.
The ball struck the anaconda near his flaming eyes, and a jet
of blood spurted out and fell upon the leaves beneath like huge
46 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
rubies. The tree upon which the snake rested was shaken to its
very roots, and swayed td and fro as though a hurricane was
raging. Branches were broken off, with reports as loud as the
discharge of pistols, and those limbs which were too large for even
the reptile to contend successfully with, were stripped of leaves aa
completely as if done by hand.
The struggles of the monster were terrible, and more than once
I felt like imitating the monkeys, and disappearing as fast as
possible from the scene. It seemed imbued with mighty
strength, for it uncoiled its tail, and after thrashing it about the
body of the tree for a few moments, recoiled it around the trunk,
and tightened it until I thought the very sap would exude.
" Now is your time," cried Allen, who was quietly loading his
rifle. " Fire, and see how quick he will relax his hold."
I took deliberate aim, and fired. The ball struck one of the
folds, cut its way through, and penetrated the tree. "The coils were
quickly unwound and concealed for a moment, for the snake was
now roused to madness, and seemed determined to destroy every
thing within reach. The saplings in the vicinity were knocked
down, the bushes were torn up, and showers of dark water
were scattered upon us as the monster struck at everything it
could reach.
" End the contest," I cried, as the head of the anaconda rested
for a moment, covered with its blood, and the fierce eyes glared
upon us more wicked than ever.
" Pooh ! " cried Allen ; "we haven t begun to see the fun yet."
If he called it fun to look at the snake s contortions, I won
dered what he would consider serious business ; but before I had
time to ask the question, the reptile gave a convulsive twirl with
its tail, and as it did so a huge piece of decayed wood was struck,
and sent with considerable force into the air.
" He s in his flurry," shouted my friend, using the expressiot of
a whaleman ; and like those gentlemen who search the seas for
light, he crowed somewhat too quick ; for the stick of wood
descending with a velocity in accordance with natural causes,
struck Allen upon his head, and broke into a thousand different
pieces ; but the dirt and dust adhered to his face and shoulders,
and if possible he was a dirtier-looking man than when he
emerged from the stagnant water.
To add to his perplexity, the blow was sufficient to prostrate
A DEAD SNAKE. 47
him ; and as he sat upon the damp earth, hardly conscious what
hit him, I could not help laughing; and I thought the old gray-
headed "monkey would have joined in my mirth and. chuckled with
delight.
44 Darn it, I don t see anything to laugh at ! " cried Allen,
pettishly, as he cleared the dirt and the dead wood from his face.
44 If you had a looking-glass you would say different," I cried,
etill watching the snake.
44 1 have no doubt that I am a picture at the present time ; but I
look full as well as you did last night when kissing Donna Teresa
in the dark. Come, I ve got you there."
4 Say no more, and I ll promise not to laugh again for a fort
night. What I did last night was accidental."
u I know it was, and so was the falling of the stick of wood
upon my head ; yet you see how disastrous it has been, and how
soiled my clothes are. There can be a moral deducted from the
affair that will benefit you, if you will only profit by it."
4< This is no time to study homilies," I replied, not relishing
the conversation. u Kill the snake, and let us continue the
tramp, for time is flying fast."
Allen shook his form, and then cleared his rifle of the dirt and
dust. The anaconda had revived considerably by this time, and
was now engaged in gnawing the tree upon which it was coiled,
yet not working with energy ; for it had shed much blood, and
was growing weak rapidly.
44 1 will bet an ounce that I put a ball within one inch of his
left eye," Allen said, slowly raising his rifle, and turning to me
to see whether I took the wager.
I nodded my acceptance, for I was tired of the sport, and wished
to end it.
My friend fired, and the head of the anaconda, after one con
vulsive struggle, fell to the ground and remained motionless ; but
the tail still continued to work as though life was too dear to be
relinquished by a few small wounds.
Almost with the fall of the snajse the troop of monkeys re
appeared upon a neighboring tree, and chattered and crowed
with delight ; and the old gray-headed rascal once more gathered
leaves, and while he made grimaces at us, did not fail to fling
them at his defunct enemy, and boxed the ears of his numerous
progeny because they did not follow his example, instead of
48 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
staring at ns like greenhorns who had never been from hojue or
Been a stranger during their brief existence.
We waited for a few minutes to see whether the anaconda was
not playing a deep game for the purpose of getting us within its
reach ; but its head remained quiet, even if the tail had not
ceased its convulsive workings. At length we ventured near
enough to punch the fallen monster with sticks ; but it gave no
sign of animosity at the indignities which were heaped upon it,
and taking courage from its dormant state, we examined our
prize, worthless to us, but of great value to the natives, who con
sider its fat as inestimable for the cure of certain diseases ; and
had they known that an anaconda was lying dead within three
miles of the factory, hundreds of the Mestizas would have nocked
towards the great swamp for the purpose of securing a titbit and
carrying it home in triumph.
The dogs could not be induced to approach the carcass, al
though we endeavored, by threats and kindness, to get them to
do so ; while the monkeys, on the contrary, ventured as near as
they possibly could and keep out of our reach, but they watched
our proceedings with great interest, and chattered as we moved
about as though speculating what we would do next. Re-enforce
ments of the saucy knaves continued to arrive every minute, and
in less than half an hour after the death of the snake, there were
at least five hundred, of all sizes, swinging from the trees and
demanding of the gray-headed veteran how their enemy perished.
Such a chattering and screaming could only be equalled by an
immense concourse of people, talking on some subject dear to
their hearts, such as a new bonnet or a bit of scandal.
A few of the boldest of the tribe even ventured upon the tree,
around the trunk of which the snake was coiled, and sat upon
the branches and made faces at us, or else imitated our gestures,
and looked so cunning that for some time we committed many
absurd acts simply for the pleasure of seeing the troop endeavor
to comprehend and imitate them. But the dogs began to grow
impatient, and time was too valuable to waste playing with apish
visitors. We saluted them with a polite bow, and a hundred
heads were ducked in acknowledgment of the compliment, and
a hundred shrill cries were uttered, which sounded like sardonic
laughter ; and I know that the scamps told each other that we
had braved the danger, and that they were to reap the benefit.
ON THE TRAIL AGAIN. 49
*
The old grandfather uttered a parting benediction, and hurled a
handful of leaves at our heads, as we called our dogs, and once
more put them on the trail, while we followed close at their
heels in pursuit of the ladrone Juan, whose capture we had neg
lected fq the purpose of destroying the anaconda.
The dogs took to the trail quite readily, and. seemed much
relieved when the dead snake was left far behind. The brutes,
perhaps, had learned from instinct that the anaconda was a
very bad enemy to meet in the forest, and that courage and
ferocity Availed but little against the enormous strength and
rapid movements of the snake, whose power is so great that even
the stoutest buck that roams the valleys is no match in a fair
fight, when the anaconda has the protection of a tree, and uses
it as a retreat.
The natives tell wonderful stories of the power of the anaconda
in the eating line, and quite a number of Mestizas, who pre
tended to know all about the habits and disposition of the
snake, were ready to swear that they had seen them gorge deer
that weighed at least one hundred pounds each, first prepar
ing them by breaking every bone in their bodies, until the
mass was a complete jelly, and .after covering it with slime,
slowly swallow it, and then lie dormant for a week, awaiting
digestion.
At such times the anaconda is incapable of offering resistance
if attacked by wild beasts, or natives armed with lances and
knives, and quite frequently the monsters are destroyed in this
manner. But I am inclined to think that the natives have, with
their usual exaggeration, magnified a doe of two months old
into a full-grown deer ; for, during my residence in Manila, and
while on hunting excursions, I probably met with eight or ten
anacondas, not torpid things, such as are shown in cages and
boxes in this country, and are called full-grown boas, but power
ful snakes, twenty-five, and even thirty-five feet long, and meas
uring in circumference as much as a man s thigh. I have
watched them for heurs in the dark forests of Macati, while
they sported upon the branches of a tree, or else lay dormant,
and with eyes that seemed half closed, watching the sports of
monkeys as they played within a few feet of their retreat, and
provoked an attack By their boldness.
I have seen the listless monsters suddenly raise their heads,
4
50 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
and like lightning dart upon the unlucky ape, and after one shrill
scream of terror, its life would be crushed out as easity as a
cook can break an egg-shell.
It sometimes happens that an anaconda, tempted by the fine
weather and the warm sunshine, or else in search of a dinner,
will stray towards some native village, and take up its quarters
in a mango tree, where it will remain for hours, waiting with
exemplary patience for the approach of a dog, child, or even
full grown native ; and woe betide either of the above named, if
they venture within the circle of the anaconda s reach, for it can
dart with the quickness of thought upon its prey, and give no
warning of its intentions. But death speedily follows the attack,
for the enraged natives muster in strong force, hurl sticks and
stones at their torpid enemy until it is incapable of mischief, then
sharp knives complete the work.
The dogs grew more excited at every step, and it required a
stern word to prevent them from breaking out in a cry, and
starting in hot pursuit of the robber. ^
Suddenly we emerged from the trees and brush, and reached a
sheet of water which contained a small island in its centre, nearly
destitute of trees or bushes* The land was high, and looked
very rich and inviting, and we thought that we could discern
signs of cultivation in small patches upon the side that greeted
our point of observation.
" On that island," said Allen, " is Juan Baptiste."
"Your reasons for the supposition?" I asked, refreshing my
inner man with a drink from a flask, and after a careful obser
vation of the neighborhood, taking a seat under a tree, where I
lighted a cheroot, and prepared to enjoy myself.
" My reasons are these," replied my friend : " you observe
that the dogs have led us to the edge of the water, and make no
effort to find another trail. This shows that the man we are in
pursuit of embarked on a raft or boat, and, it is probable, has a
home on the island. Reason number two is, that the lake is full
of alligators, which makes his retreat muctt more secure."
" Tell me how you know that the lake contains alligators, and
I ll agree to your reasons," I said.
" Willingly. You see that the dogs don t offer to take to the
water, and that they stand quite a number of feet from its edge,
and eye the lake with suspicion."
A LAKE OF ALLIGATORS. ^51
I acknowledged that I bad noticed the circumstance.
" Well, the brutes know much more than they can express ;
be assured that whenever you see dogs, in this country, refus
ing to follow up a scent by crossing water, it means that black
monsters, as dangerous as anacondas, are lying at the bottom of
the water, and that the hounds know it."
, " Convince me that your reasoning is just, and I ll believe it,"
I saijl.
Allen picked up a piece of bamboo, and threw it into the
water so gently that but a slight splash was heard.
Before the ripples upon the water had spread to the circum
ference of a quarter-acre lot, a dozen black spots were seen upon
the surface, where they remained dormant, as though without
life or animation.
" Are you satisfied? " Allen asked.
" Hardly," I answered. " The black spots which you claim
as alligators heads may be logs of wood." *
" Then plunge into the lake, and I ll bet you any money that
you will never leave it alive."
I declined the wager on purely personal considerations, for 1
began to have an inkling that Allen was right. To further test
the matter, I hurled a stick of wood into the lake, and as it
struck the water, the black heads disappeared, but, after a short
lapse of time, re-appeared, and remained silent and motionless
as before.
" What sport we could have," Allen remarked, " if a dead
buffalo was lying at the water s edge, and we had no business
before us. We could then witness a struggle and a war that
we should remember for many months. Huge fellows, with
tails as powerful as young right whales, and jaws filled with
ivory, would attack alligators smaller than themselves, or else
struggle with their equals, and sink to the bottom of the lake in
mortal combat. Then we could sit here and test our skill as
marksmen by firing at their eyes or under their flippers the
only places, I believe, that a rifle bullet can make an impression."
" Don t conjure up such sporting scenes until our present en
terprise is completed, for, to tell you the truth, I have a desire to
sleep at the factory to-night. If we do not reach home, Mr.
Huckford will feel concerned at our absence."
62 * LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Is there any other person at Santa Mesa who will feel disap
pointed unless you return?" asked Allen, with a slight laugh 1 .
I suspected his motive in asking the question, so disdained to
reply, but puffed out volumes of smoke from ray cheroot, for the
purpose of hiding my confusion.
For a few minutes neither of us spoke. We sat watching the
island, and the dark heads of the alligators, as they moved about
the surface of the water, eying the party on shore with \wshful
looks, as though they hadn t had a real feast on dog or man for
many days. At length Allen threw away his cigar, and drew
his huge hunting-knife, as though he meant mischief.
" We have wasted time enough," he said. " Now let us be
gin the dangerous and difficult work befgre us."
" Do you expect me to swim the lake, with a knife between
my teeth, to defend myself against the alligators, or will you
perform that service ? " I asked.
" I anticipate nothing of the kind," Allen answered. " I ex
pect that you will help me cut bamboos, and from them we can
build a raft that will carry us in safety to the island."
There were no other resources, and the idea seemed practi
cable, although I had much rather have had a good stout banco
in which to trust my precious self, for I thought that it would
require but slight exertion on the part of the monsters of the
lake to interrupt our voyage, and give it a disastrous termina
tion. If Allen had any such fears, he did not show them, for he
went to work with a will, and almost before I was on my feet,
hatf a dozen strong bamboos had fallen, and awaited trimming
before launching upon the lake.
We continued our work with energy, and yet with so much
stillness that not a sound was heard three rods from where we
stood, although we often glanced towards the island to see if
there were any signs of life, and if any person was watching our
movements ; yet we as often failed to detect the presence of a
human being, and I was almost ready to swear that Juan was no
longer on the island.
Our raft was speedily constructed, and in a thorough manner,
for bamboo, noted for its buoyancy, was plenty, and large
enough to answer our purpose.
The largest sticks were placed as stringers, and on them we
piled the smaller ones, securing all with twigs^of the same mate-
A BAMBOO RAFT. 53
rial, until our raft was twenty feet long, ten wide, and about six
inches deep.
After it was built it required but little strength to launch it,
and this we were enabled to do in spite of the alligators, which
were prowling around in shallow water, and even rubbed their
noses against the raft, as though desirous of testing its strength.
" Are we to take the dogs ? " I asked.
" Of course ; we shall find no difficulty in coaxing them on the
raft, and after we reach the island they will be of great service."
"But suppose we are attacked while on the voyage? We
can t use our rifles without giving au alarm, and -that would de
feat the object of the expedition."
Allen mused a moment, and then announced that he had a
plan that would give us the advantage, decidedly, over the den
izens of the lake, in case they were disposed to impede our
progress. He lashed his knife to a bamboo, and held it up in
triumph.
" What do you think of that for a weapon? " he asked.
" I will tell you after I have seen how it operates," I replied ;
" if it will keep the scaly devils from carrying our raft by storm,
I ll praise your ingenuity, provided, of course, I live long enough.
If I don t, you must apply to my executors."
We secured two long poles to propel our raft, and then, part
ly by force and partly by persuasion, got the dogs upon it and
shoved off; and never did mariners upon the ocean, with but a
few spars to .cling to, exercise more care than Allen and myself,
as we slowly pushed our way towards the island, surrounded by
.dozens of alligators, who swam round the raft and eyed us with
no good will for our boldness in thus invading their domains.
One fellow I noticed in particular, for he seemed like a mon
arch whom none dared to approach ; and as he swam around the
raft his companions made way for him by darting one side, as
though there was danger in being too familiar. He was a mag
nificent specimen of the alligator race, and must have measured
at least twenty feet in length, while his jaws were ponderous, and
seemed capable of crushing a man with but one bite, and swal
lowing the pieces without mastication.
" Don t you think," I said, turning to Allen, " that the atten
tions which this black rascal is bestowing upon us deserve some
return ? " "
54 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" He iron t trouble you," Allen replied. But just at this mo
ment, as though to show that he spoke without authority, the
monster struck his head against the raft with so much force that
it staggered us, and the dogs uttered a low whine of terror, and
clung to the bambdos with tooth and nail, as though they knew
what their fate would be if precipitated into the water.
" Don t stop," Allen cried, still urging the raft through the
water ; but the alligator could move ten feet to our one, and as
we neared the shore the old fellow seemed disposed to dispute
our passage, for he gave us another gentle rap with his head, and
then dove under the raft and lifted it nearly a foot out of water.
u Cuss him, I can t stand that!" muttered Allen, who was
nearly thrown overboard by the collision ; and grasping his long
pole, with the knife at the end, he watched for an opportunity to
use it ; and he did not have to wait long. The alligator slowly
rose to the surface, and eyed us with a look which seemed to ask,
" How do you like it? "
Allen watched a good chance, and as the side fin was raised
for a moment, made a lunge, and buried the whole length of the
blade in the monster s body.
Instantly the tail of the animal made its appearance, de
scribed a curve, and before I could understand how the thing
was done, one of our dogs w r as flying through the air, all doubled
up in a heap, as though paralyzed by the powerful blow which he
had received. The poor brute struck the water a couple of rods
from us ; but before he had time to utter a yell, or to swim a
stroke, a dozen black snouts suddenly appeared, and dragged him
to the bottom of the lake. I glanced hastily towards the spot,
and saw a few bubbles and a slight tinge of blood upon the water ;
and then, a moment afterwards, the monsters were swimming"
around the raft, looking more greedy for the slight taste whici
they had obtained of flesh.
" That tail might have hit one of us," I remarked to Allen, as
I urged the raft along towards the island, anxious to escapte from
such disagreeable company.
" It might," he answered, laconically.
" Your friend is about to pay you another visit," I cried, as I
saw the alligator which Allen had wounded suddenly re-appear
from beneath the raft, and slowly work his way to the point where
Allen was standing.
A DIFFICULT PASSAGE. 55
" Ifhe will let me alone, I ll promise not to molest him again.
I think that he has the advantage, for with one fair blow of -his
tail he could sweep the raft, and then where should we be ? " -
It did not require the aid of a prophet to guess, and as the sub
ject was one that was not debatable, I plied my .pole as hard as
possible ; but the monsters seemed to gain strength,, and made the
water look ten shades darker by their presence, as they darted to
and fro beneath us. Two or three times my pole was seized by
younger members of the family, who were apparently not suf
ficiently enlightened to distinguish between a piece of bamboo
and a human leg ; but a slight bite was sufficient to convince them
that they had made a mistake, and that wood was not very nu
tritious.
. As we neared the shore our escort grew bolder, and even thrust
their heads upon the raft, to the great terror of the dogs, and the
exceeding discomfort of two human beings, who wished with all
their hearts that they were safe at Santa Mesa, drinking wine
and eating mangoes, or else chatting of romance and chivalry with
Donna Teresa. More than once I glanced towards our rifles,
thinking that the time had arrived for their use, even if the re
ports did give the* one we were in search of warning of our ap
proach, and thus defeat the objects of the expedition. But Allen
shook his head and urged more activity in pushirfg for the shore,
and I was willing to run a little more risk for the sake of captur
ing Juan, and thus revenge ourselves for his audacious attack
upon the factory.
" A few minutes more and we shall be beyond their reach,"
whispered Allen, lancing with his knife the boldest of the mon
sters as they thrust their heads upon the raft, or else dove under
it for the purpose of shaking us ,off; but if one was driven off
wounded, another was ready to take its place ; and thus we fought
our way to the shore, which we gained with thankful hearts, too
anxious to escape from the dangers of the water to think of the
terrors of the land, for a resolute man could have held us com
pletely at Jiis mercy while we were securing the raft and examin
ing our rifles.
The dogs bounded to the shore with many expressions of de
light for their escape ; and as soon as we were ready, they set
themselves to work to find the spot where the outlaw was in the
Vabit of landing. This was but the labor of a few minutes, fol
56 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
the scent was still fresh, and the dogs eager for action, and ready
to show that they were willing to make atonement for their dis
play of cowardice when we encountered the anaconda and the
marine monsters. .
The brutes led us up the steep slopes of" the island, through a
grove of bamboo ; when we suddenly emerged upon a cultivated
spot, where yams and sweet potatoes were growing in profusion,
but there were no signs of a house, or a habitation of any kind.
The dogs trotted on, "and we followed as fast as possible ; but the
brutes were too eager to await our motions, and we lost sight of
them for a few minutes, when we were suddenly startled by their
deep baying, which told that they had run their game to a
stand.
Instead of following the trail of the dogs, we diverged to the
right, and moved carefully to a point where we could get sight of
the animals and whatever object they were looking at. For five
minutes we crept through underbrush and* rank grass, until at
length we gained a small clearing, in the centre of which was a
huge mango tree ; and aifiid the branches, tw.enty feet from the
ground, we saw a bamboo hut, thatched with leaves, and evi
dently intended as a habitation by the person we were in pur
suit of.
The dogs we re howling most merrily when we reached our
point of observation ; but no signs of life could we observe in the
hut, and we should have supposed that Juan had left his quarters
before our arrival, had we not been certain that the dogs were
not liable to make mistakes. As the hut contained numerous
apertures, we were not positive that the outlaw was not watching
our movements from one of them ; and as he was known to be a
good shot, we thought that it bjehooved us to remain -quiet, and
see what course he would take.
For half an hour we remained concealed, but there were no
signs of life in the hut, and I began to grow wearied with the
siege, and once more wish myself back at Santa Mesa.
" This is as bad as battling with alligators," I cried,, yawning,
and incautiously exposing my body above the bushes*.
I had hardly spoken when a loud report was heard in the tree,
and a ball whizzed within six inches of my head, and was buried
in the earth twenty yards beyond.
" That is not a bad shot for a musket," coolly remarked Allen ,
THE BAMBOO HUT. 57
and I agreed with him most heartily, as I dropped behind a clump
of bushes.
" Lucky the fellow used a musket instead of a rifle, or this
day would have ended your adventures," was all the cousolatiou
which I received from my friend.
" 1 can t believe that he can shoot as well the second time," I
remarked. " Just stand up for a moment and see."
Allen declined the pressing invitation, and for half an hour
longer we watched the tree and the hut in hope of getting a
glimpse of the outlaw ; but he was too careful of his person to. ex
pose it to strangers.
" Why don t he shoot the dogs? " I asked, half inclined to do
.so myself, for I was getting tired of their infernal din.
" That is a question that I have asked myself half a dozen
times, but I cannot answer it. Of course the brutes are too well
trained to stay there ami be shot at ; but the fellow might kill
one, at any rate, before the other would take the hint and retire
from the range of his- gun."
" Bamboo is light," I said, glancing at the hut and then at my
rifle. " Who knows but a chance shot. might tell? "
Allen took the hint, and nodded his head in approbation. I
took a careless aim and fired. The ball crashed through the
bamboo, and the dogs, recognizing the report of the rifle, re
doubled their howls, and sprang wildly upon the tree, as though
they would tear the occupant limb from limb, if he would only
give them a chance. The outlaw made no movement to show
that he was affected by the shot, and I suggested to Allen that
perhaps I had killed him.
" That don t look much like it," my friend remarked, as a ball
struck the bushes in front of him, and then, glancing, whizzed
to another part of "the island. " Diablo I this is far from in
teresting ! "
"A very good shot for a musket. Keep quiet, and dou t
move. Lucky it wasn t a rifle," I cried, using the same language
which he addressed to me when my head was in danger of fly
ing lead.
We were glad enough to crawl on our stomachs to a new spot,
where the outlaw would not be likely to suspect our presence, and
thus escape from his chance shots ; and I will confess that I wished
the fellow to the devil with hearty good will, and inwardly vowedi
58 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
that I d never undertake another expedition, even if Charley Allen
made one of the party to seduce me with his plausible reasons for
everything that he desired to engage in.
The sun poured down with awful warmth, for it was noon, and
not a breath of air was stirring ; and to add to our discomfort, the
mosquitos began to find our retreat, and were inserting their
bills with fearful effect- upon every portion of our body that was
not encased in strong cloth ; and I will add that I was rejoiced
with exceeding joy when I saw a cloud hovering over my friend s
head, and half a dozen endeavoring to find lodgment upon his
nose, to prevent which he was constantly employed with both
hands, and sometimes with his feet.
" How do you like the fun? " I asked, with a malicious grin ;
for I had taken the precaution of bringing a pair of stout gloves
with me ; so my hands were well protected.
" O, I don t mind these few," he replied, with an attempt at
calmness. " When night sets in we shall probably have clouds
of the insects to contend with, and until then I mean to retain my
good nature."
To hear a man talk about stopping all night on the island, when
everything that was dear and pleasant was . miles away at the
factory, was not to my fancy ; so I grew desperate, and resolved
to end the contest as soon as possible. The dogs had barked
themselves hoarse, and were lying at the foot of the tree motion
less, as I could see by pushing the bushes one side ; but even my
movement, slight as it was, roused them, and they were all atten
tion and ready for work. But I saw something of more im
portance than the dogs, and I was not slow to bring my rifle to
my shoulder, when Allen interrupted me.
"What is it?" he asked.
" Do you not see the face of the ladrone peering at us from one
of the windows of the hut?" I said.
Charley did not answer, but snatched up his rifle, and after a
hasty aim fired.
" Missed him, I ll bet a dollar," I cried.
" I ll take the wager," was the quiet response.
" How shall we settle it? "
" That is easily done. Do you hear the dogs recommence their
baying fiercer than ever ? "
A RACE FOR LIFE. 59
I nodded, but still kept my eyes fixed upon the tree and the hut,
in hopes of getting another view of the robber.
" Well, be assured that they smell blood freshly shed, and that
Juan has got a wound that will prevent his escaping from us,
even if he should kill the dogs."
I did not reply, for at that moment I saw a limb of the mango
tree* shake as though an anaconda was winding its heavy folds
around the branch, preparatory to making a dart. " The Lord
preserve us from another snake," I thought, for I had had quite
enough of them to last me for one day.
Suddenly the branch of the tree, which I was watching, sprang
up to its proper place, and. then I heard a heavy body strike the
earth. The dogs uttered terrific yells, and seemed to change their
position from the foot of the tree to one farther off.
" The ladrone is escaping," I cried, the thought suddenly re
curring to me that he had dropped from the tree as a last resort,
and intended to make for some secret hiding-place on the island.
" It can t be possible ! " exclaimed Allen, starting up. " The
dogs would tear him to pieces before he had run ten steps."
" He has run more than a hundred, and yet you hear the brutes
in full cry."
Allen listened for a moment, and then seized his rifle and
started in pursuit, closely followed by myself. When we gained
the tree where the outlaw had built his hut, we were enabled to
command an uninterrupted view of the island as far as the water s
edge, and within thirty rods of the lake we saw the form of the
robber running with extraordinary speed directly towards the
water. The hounds were close to him, however, and every mo
ment we expected to see old Maje make a spring and bear the
native to the earth, and hold him until our arrival. But in this
we were disappointed, for Juan was as nimble as a deer, and
every bound that he made took him clear of bushes and rank
grass as completely as though he was flying through the air.
We could have sent a bullet whizzing after him, and. with a
tolerable certainty that it would have maimed him, or else ended
his life ; but we were so sure that the dogs would overtake
him, that we reserved our fire, and watched the race in breathless
suspense. The outlaw was within a rod of the water, and the
hounds, instead of quickening their pace, subsided into a trot,
which was conclusive evidence that they had not forgotten the
60 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
lesson taught them a few hours before, during the encounter with
the alligators.
41 Heavens ! it can t be possible that the fellow is about to throw
himself into the lake ! " cried Allen ; but it seemed as though he
was resolved to risk it as a chance for life, for Juan shaped his
course towards the nearest water, and for a while he was hid
from our view by a small knoll.
We followed in pursuit as fast as possible ; but before we had
taken ten steps from the tree we heard a loud splash in the
water, and then the sad wail of the dogs as they howled a death
chorus.
" He is in the lake, and will be Jfood for alligators," cried
Allen, trembling so violently that he could hardly run. u Why
didn t the devilish fool surrender in the first place, and not give us
all this trouble."
Even while my friend was speaking we reached the knoll, which
overlooked the lake, aiyl saw the outlaw upon the surface of the
water, striking out with vigorous strokes for the maiu land, which
was near a third of a mile from the island, while the dogs stood
upon the shore and howled their rage at thus losing their prey,
yet did not dare venture in pursuit.
For a few moments we stood in silence, expecting that the
ladrone would be seized and dragged beneath the water ; but on
he went, unharmed until Allen thought that it was time to bring
him to, and for this purpose mild measures were resorted to.
" Ho, Juan ! " he shouted ; " return to the laud, and surrender
like a man."
" Never," answered the outlaw, looking back and shaking hi-s
clinched hand in defiance. " Juan ca-n die like a man, but he
will not surrender to end his days in a Spanish prison, or work
like a dog in the chain gang."
u Your death is certain unless you return. The lake is full of
alligators, more ferocious than the Spaniards or your midnight
ladrones."
" I make a bold venture for my life," returned Juan, u and, if
I escape, will leave this part of the country forever. If I die I
will curse you with my last breath, for none but Americanos
would have dared pursue me to this spot."
The outlaw waved, his hand in token of adieu, and then turned
and recommenced swimming vigorously.
A TERRIBLE SWIM. 61
11 Can it be possible that tbe alligators will let tbat man pass
through their dominions unmolested?" Allen asked, and it seemed
possible, for the outlaw continued on his way uninjured ; and
more than opce my friend glanced at his rifle as though undecided
whether he should test its efficacy or let the ladrone escape.
u The rogue deserves to get clear for his boldness ; but if he
does, the old factory will nave to suffer in retaliation for this
visit. I hardly think it would be right, considering the tramp
that we have had, to return home without accomplishing some
good. See how the scamp swims, and glances over his shoulder
as though he expected a bullet every moment ; and faith, tis a pity
to disappoint him."
Allen raised his rifle slowly, and was about to fire when I
struck up the weapon and pointed to the water. Two black heads
were observed within a rod.of^Juan, motionless, as though uncer
tain from whence the sounds they heard- proceeded. The outlaw
saw the alligators, for he changed his course and swam away
from them, and I noticed that he glanced frequently towards the
motionless snouts, as though to be certain that they did not pur
sue him. Suddenly four other heads were seen directly in front
of the fellow, and once more he altered his course to avoid them ;
but hardly had he done so, when the lake seemed alive with alli
gators, all heading towards the swimmer, who no longer strove to
reach the land, but seemed to become bewildered at his situation,
and swam around in circles which grew more contracted every
moment. The monsters did not seem in a hurry for their prey,
but actually sported with the man, for three or four times we saw
him raised from the water as though one of the alligators had
poked him with its nose for the purpose of provoking a fight ; and
then the huge animals would lash their tails upon the surface
of the water as though applauding the performance, like a party
of gentlemen at a French opera. All of our fierce animosity
vanished as we witnessed the condition of the outlaw, and we
would have given a reasonable sum of money if we could have
had the power to save him unharmed. Once we started towards
our raft ; but the idea was abandoned almost as soon as formed,
for we thought that before we could propel the structure to the
spot, there would be nothing left of Juan but a few stains of blood
upon the surface of the water.
Once the Mestizo seemed to have resolved to sell his life as
62 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
dear as possible, or else cut his way through the scaly circle that
encompassed him, but speedily relinquished the idea, and the long ,
knife which we saw in his hand for a moment was dropped, and
he recommenced swimming more violently than ever, but still in
a circle, which grew smaller every moment.
" Save me, senors ! " suddenly shouted Juan, raising his body
from the water and waving his arms towards us. " Save me
from this dreadful fate, and the Virgin will reward you."
We were powerless, and could only pity the man and hope that
death would speedily end his troubles ; for if we had fired, and even
wounded the alligators which were upon the surface of the water,
there were, no doubt, dozens in the lake ready to rush in for a
share of the feast, and fight until they obtained it.
The strokes of the swimmer grew weaker and weaker, as though
his strength was nearly exhausted, ajad still that circle of black heads
continued to press towards him, and they were almost within two
yards of their prey, when we were surprised to observe a^movement
that looked as though the monsters had altered their minds, and
were disposed to let the outlaw escape ; for the circle was broken,
and we saw many heads disappear, and others sheer off to a con
venient distance, and wait as though for further orders. From
this the outlaw gained courage, and struck out for the land as
rapidly as possible ; and I really hoped that he was destined to
escape ; but before the unfortunate had swam a rod, a monster
head was thrust out. of the lake, and after a short survey of the
swimmer disappeared.
" Tis the same one that you lanced," I said, turning to Allen,
who nodded ; for he was too much occupied in watching affairs
upon the lake to speak.
Hardly had I spoken oefore the outlaw suddenly sprang half
his length from the water, uttered a yell so shrill that it could
have been heard at Santa Mesa, and then disappeared from -the
surface of the lake.
" That s the last of him," muttered Allen, drawing a long
breath, as though a weighty matter was removed from his mind ;
and although we watched the spot where the Mestizo had disap
peared for nearly half an hour, we never sa\\ him again. The
surface of the lake remained smooth, as though never agitated by
storms or living monsters. All seemed calm and quiet, and from
THE LADRONE S HUT. 63
i
the main land we could hear a colony of monkeys quarrel and
make love much after the fashion of the human family.
We slowly retraced our steps to the hut from whence the out
law had escaped, and found that he had been well provided with
cooking utensils, and food enough to last him several weeks ; for
there were three or four goats confined in a pen, besides quita a
number of fowls, which he had undoubtedly raised to use in case
there was danger in seeking for food at the villages. After a
brief survey of the grounds, we cut some poles and made a ladder,
so that we could ascend the tree and reach the hut. This we ac
complished aftei^ a little labor, and found that Juan was in the
habit of getting up in the same way, and then drawing his ladder
after him ; for we saw a very good bamboo ladder stowed away
amid the branches, and -almost concealed from sight by the thick
leaves.
In the hut we found but little to repay us for our trouble, with
the exception of a few pieces of silver plate, stolen from some
gentleman s house, and the gun and other weapons, which were
used for nocturnal excursions. These we took as trophies of
victory, and then prepared to leave the island, and hasten back to
Santa Mesa, so that we could reach the place before night, and
not get caught in the great swamp, and be obliged to consort
with wild beasts, and more terrible still, be eaten by mosquitos.
Of ammunition we found none every charge in the powder-horn
being exhausted.
As we expected to encounter some opposition in crossing the
lake, we seized three of the goats and fastened them to the raft,
and then coaxed our dogs on, and started for the place from whence
we had embarked two hours before. *
I rather think we should have crossed without attracting the
attention of the denizens of the lake, had not the goats commenced
bleating as though desirous of provoking their fate. But we
were not more than half over, when first one ugly snout and
then another was raised above the water, and after listening
for a moment disappeared ; and the next time we saw them the
monsters were swimming beside our raft, and looking at us most
knowingly.
We paid no attention to our visitors until they exhibited signs
of pressing impatience and hostile symptoms, when we cut a goat
loose, and in despite of its struggles urged it into the water.
64 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
The poor animal swain after us for a few moments, while th^
alligators were tampering with it, and we improved our opportu-
nity to urge the raft through the water as fast as possible. Sud
denly W 4 e heard a pair of jaws crash together, and I glanced over
iny shoulder and saw that the water a few yards astern of us was
all of a foam, and that the goat had disappeared.
For a few minutes we were clear of the monstefs ; but when
five rods from the shore, they reappeared, more ferocious and
more numerous than ever.
" Over with them ! " shouted Allen, and over the goats went.
There was a rush and a struggle, and the waiter boiled up as
though there was a whirlpool in the lake, and before it had
cleared away, our raft, thank God, struck the shore.
The dogs bounded to the land with .yells of delight, and we
were none too quick in following their example ; for the alliga
tors, after their meal of goats flesh, were ravenous for more, and
followed the raft even to the edge of the water, and thrust their
long noses upon it, and grunted their displeasure when they
found that we had escaped. Conspicuous for his ferocity was the
huge monster who had commenced the attack upon Jyan, and
the same one that Allen had wounded with his knife while we
were making the best of our way to the island.
The rage of the old fellow, when he found that the raft was
deserted, was so intense, that he snapped at his brethren when
ever they ventured near him, and once or twice I saw that he left
marks of his teeth upon the tails and fins of his less fortunate
companions, and then, to complete his work, gave the raft a
gentle brush with his powerful tail, that broke the sticks and
poles into a thousand pieces, and sent them flying in all direc
tions, both on shore and on the lake, while the mud was
showered upon us in torrents, and for a moment we were blinded
by the spray.
As soon as we could clear our eyes, we saw the huge brute
lying upon the surface of the water, looking at us with his twin
kling eyes ; and they said, as plain as possible,
" How do you like that? There s more of the same sort left,
if you would like to try it."
"Did you ever witness such a display of cussed impudence?"
muttered Allen, who had been engaged in picking a piece of mud
out of his left eye, and therefore was not in the most amiable
temper just at that time.
HOMEWARD BOUND. 65
" Why don t you rebuke it?" I asked, laughing at his streaked
face. t
" Cuss me if I don t," he replied, snatching up his rifle, and
taking deliberate aim at the eye which was still leering -at us,
as though in tmumph.
He fired, and for a moment I thought that, there was an
eclipse ; for the sun was obscured by the Sheets of water and
mud that were raised by the monster in its struggles, and I m
sorry to state that we got the most of the spray, for we stood
near the lake, and directly within full sweep of the alligator s tail.
But that was the last splurge that the huge animal ever made,
for it was his death throe ; and when the foam cleared away,
there lay the ugly fellow upon the top of the water, motionless,
and ten or a dozen little ones were cruising in his immediate
vicinity, as though to assure themselves that he was not playing
possum for the purpose of getting them within reach of his pon
derous jaws ; and by watching we saw how in death he was in
sulted by those who, in life, had paid him all due deference and
honor. "VYe shouldered our rifles and left the scene.
As we neared the place where we had killed the anaconda, the
dogs made a circuit to avoid the spot ; but as our trail lay past
the tree where the dead snake was coiled, we went as near to it
as possible, and were greeted with a most unnatural yell ; and to
our surprise found that the trees in *the immediate vicinity of
the anaconda were covered with monkeys, from the little fellow
not more than a month old to the venerable old grandfathers
with gray heads and white beards. They seemed to be holding
a council of war over the fallen foe, and, instead of regarding us
with mistrust and fear, they actually maintained their places on
the lowest branches of the trees, and even when we brushed past
them, only made faces of derision, and showed their long, white
teeth, and chattered defiance, or perhaps welcome, for they used
a language that we did not understand or care to interpret. At
any rate, there was great rejoicing over the destruction of their
enemy, and it appeared to us that intelligence of the event had
been sent to every tribe in the great swamp during our absence,
and that they had speedily assembled to debate in council what
action should be taken in the premises. *
After two hours hard walking we gained, the edge of the
swamp, and saw the white walls of San Pedro in the distance,
5
66 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
the sun shining upon the horn windows with all its intensity, as
though to melt them to glue, and set the inmates of the building
free ; and not until then did we feel that we were safe, on our
return from the dangerous expedition of hunting an outlaw, or
ladrone. We found our banco where we had left it, and cast
ing off the painter, quietly paddled down the river, exchanging
salutations as we drifted along with the crews of cascas which
had been a few miles above for the purpose of filling their crafts
with fresh water for the shipping in the bay, or else receiving our
full share of jokes from some washerwoman who was pursuing
her calling upon the banks of the river, and beat her clothes upon
rocks, as though they were made of iron.
At times we came upon a bevy of young girls, who were tak
ing their afternoon bath, and sported in the water like sea-nymphs,
without thinking that they were violating the laws of decency by
not using bathing dresses ; but had such useful articles been sug
gested, great would have been the astonishment, and greater still
the laughter. Numerous were the invitations we received to join
them in their gambols in the water, and had we done so, a nice
ducking we should have got, unless we were quick enough to
keep out of their way, or were swimmers good enough to stand
a fair battle, where no mercy would have been shown. Many
fair-shaped limbs were thrust above the water as we declined the
invitations, and many a laugh from the girls told us that they
were making merry at our want of gallantry in thus refusing to
gratify their caprices.
The scenes were too attractive to be passed hastily, and I am
ready to acknowledge that my paddle was lying idle while we
gazed at dusky necks and shoulders which glanced above the
water and disappeared as quick as meteors in the sky. A bath
would have improved our appearance, and been .relished keenly ;
but time was an object just then with us, for we desired to reach
the factory before sundown, for the purpose of relieving all anx
iety on our account.
But the generous invitations of the Mestiza girls were not
wholly rejected, for many times afterwards did Allen and myself
steal away from the factory, and sport in the cool water for
hours, while dozens of black-haired girls were on every side of us,
and ready to swim a race or try their skill in ducking. And yet
we thought less of sin than the thousands who line the shores of
COMPANY AT THE HOUSE. 67
Newport and Cape May, with all the circumspection of dress
and sober faces.
As we neared the landing-place at Santa Mesa, we saw old
Pedro, who had long been in the employ of the factory company,
standing upon the bank of the river, watching for our return ;
and whether he was glad to see us, or was tired of waiting, is
more than I can tell, but a smile of satisfaction was upon his
face when he saw us safe, and he welcomed us back with an
expressive grunt.
" How are things at the factory ? " Allen, asked, as soon as
he had secured the banco.
" Muy bueno, Senors" was the answer ; " the soldiers have
been here, made a few inquiries, and carried off all the dead
and injured, and sworn that every ladrone shall be caught, dead
or alive, before next feast day."
" A threat that they have forgotten before this time," mut
tered Allen.
"There are visitors at the house?" I suggested, burning to
know whether Donna Teresa and her husband had left for the
city.
" Si, Senor" replied the fellow, promptly ; " the holy father
of the convent of San Pedro heard of the attack to-day, and he
instantly ordered his banco, to pay a visit of condolence. His
banco has returned up the river, so that I think he will re
main over night."
"No others present?"
" The old Spaniard and his wife, senor. The old gentleman
felt grieved to think that you should have hunted without his
company, and he swore that he would stop until he had shot a
deer, if he remained a week."
"That is good news is it not?" Allen asked, in Eng
lish, handing the rifles on shore, and smiling most mali
ciously.
I made no reply, for I felt too pleased at the information to
feel angry with my worst enemy, just at that moment. Bat I
glanced at my soiled hands and clothes, and thought how shock
ing it would be to meet the lady until a change of dress had re
stored me to my usual condition of cleanliness. As Allen started
towards the house, I stopped him.
"We look none too clean to mingle with company. Let us
68 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
send Pedro for a change of garments, and while he is gone, have
a swim."
Allen^ cared but little for his appearance after a hard day s
hunt, and I knew it ; but I succeeded at length in convincing him
that the company at the factory would look upon the change in
the light of a compliment ; so Pedro was despatched for clean
linen, and brushes and combs, while we washed from our persona
the accumulations of .the Great Swamp ; and never did the
water seem more refreshing to our tired limbs than after that hard
day s work in hunting the outlaw. And then how different I felt
when dressed in a white linen shirt, with thin shoes and white
stockings, and hair arranged in the most telling style, and which
was intended to tear Donna Teresa s heart to atoms, and not
leave one little piece that she could call her own or her husband s.
Lamps were lighted in the dining-room as we walked towards
the house, for we had squandered much time at the edge of the
river ; and as soon as we reached the court-yard we heard a
hearty laugh, which seemed to shake the very walls of the build
ing. It was something between a growl and a roar, as though
the nrtterer was endeavoring to restrain his animal spirits while
relating his jokes, but finding it impossible, was obliged to yield
to the pressure, and give his voice full vent, or take the chances
of strangling.
" That," said Allen, in reply to a glance, " is the holy father,
Benventuro, who can sing or pray, feast or play, as well as the
most zealous in the land.. He is loved by the natives, and feared,
at the same time ; for the holy father," in spite of seeming indif
ference, carries an iron hand, and when it falls, a native goes
with it. He is a profound admirer of Americans and America,
and if the crown of Spain would appoint him governor general
of the islands, their prosperity would rival that of Cuba in five
years. . He knows what is required to develop the resources of
the country, and if he had position he would put his knowledge
to some use. As it is, he lives a careless, jovial life, without one
thought of the future, and entirely indifferent whether he con
forms to all the customs of the church or not."
We ascended the steps leading to the second story, and found
the holy father seate-1 at a table which was well spread with sub
stantial food, while opposite to him were Mr. Huckford and Don
Arturo.
BENVENTURO. 69
Gazing frjpm th 3 window, with her back turned to the company,
was Donna Teresa ; and even when we entered the room shedid
not turn to greet us, but remained motionless as though too busy
with her thoughts to notice our arrival.
"Ah, praise to Bacchus and Venus, the wanderers have re
turned ! " shouted the priest, as he caught sight of us. " I have
fasted for such a length of, time that my stomach is as empty as
my wine cellar, and my temper was growing as bad as Father
Visas ; apd they do say although I te,ll you this in confidence,
mind, and it must not go. further that he never speaks a pleas
ant word except on Sundays, and not then, unless two things
happen."
lt And what must happen to bring forth such an expression of
benevolence? " Allen asked, as he shook hands with the jolly-look
ing father, and presented me in due form.
" Why, his fighting cock must win a battle, and a pretty girl
confess her sins and her little peccadillos, and promise to reform ;
but faith, I have always found them ready to promise, but slow
to perform."
I glanced towards the swelling form that stood at the window
to Se what effect such conversation would have upon her ; but she
remained motionless, and apparently unheeding.
u The supper, the supper ! bring in the supper ! " shouted Father
Benventuro, slapping the table with his fat hand until the crockery
ware danced, and threatened dissolution. " Why, I have not
broken my fast since morning, and I feel like a boa that has lived
on air for a month. Senor Huckford, I hope your cook has lost
jone of his skill, and that he knows I am to stop for supper." .
" You shall be satisfied," Mr. Huckford replied, with his melan
choly smile, which was as habitual to his face as though he had
a presentiment that he should never see his home again. He
touched a bell as he spoke, and the servants entered the apart
ment with steaming coffee, and curry, and rice, and young chickens,
delicately broiled and browned without being burned, while there
was game ctfoked in various .ways, and vegetables swimming in
fresh butter.
The priest rubbed his hands, and tucked a huge colored hand
kerchief around the neck of his black robe of office, and even the
sunken eyes of the old Spaniard lighted up with fire as the fumes
of the food assailed his nostrils, and provoked his appetite. While
70 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
the servants were arranging the dishes I nastily passed to^ the
side of Donna Teresa, and laid my hand lightly upon her ex
quisitely moulded arm, so round, and smooth, and delicate, that
it looked like wax-work, encircled with heavy hoops of gold, some
of them studded with diamonds and precious stones, which glit
tered in the light like stars in the heavens, to which her large
black eyes were directed. She must^have felt my touch ; yet she
did not move or withdraw her arm from the position in which
she held it.
" Can I not obtain one word of welcome from Donna Teresa?"
I asked, in a low tone.
For a moment she suffered her eyes to wander to my face ; but
when she saw the look of admiration that I could not restrain,
she turned her head, and the rich blood mantled her cheek as she
asked,
" What kind of a welcome does Guillermo desire at my
hands?"
" The welcome of a friend," I replied, still speaking in a lo.w
tone.
" Friendships are dangerous at times, and lead to unfortunate
results. Would it not be better that I should extend to you a
sisterly welcome, or one cold and formal like a new acquaint
ance?" she asked, after a moment s thought.
" What have I done to deserve this?" I inquired, in surprise ;
and placed my hand upon hers to enforce attention. She did
not repel the liberty, but looked grave and stately, as I had seen
her when presiding over her husband * dinner table, surrounded
by the most distinguished company that the island could pro
duce.
"You have done nothing that I can condemn, and much that I
regard, since our acquaintance commenced, Guillermo," she said
slowly and distinctly, as though she was weighing each word, or
was littering them very reluctantly. * I have been alone all day,"
she continued, " as I told you that I should ; and I have thought
much of my past life, and endeavored to fancy what the future
would be like, and whether it would be as unhappy as the past
few years of my existence."
" You should be happy," I remarked, " for you have youth,
beauty, and immense wealth. What more* could you desire? "
How reproachfully her dark eyes appeared, as she looked -at
FRIENDSHIPS. 71
my face to see whether I was speaking ironically, or from my
heart. % . _
" Wealth ! " she repeated, bitterly ; " were it not for my gold
and lands I should now be free from all matrimonial control.
Would that the earthquakes had destroyed all that I possessed,
sooner than a husband."
" I thought you married of your own free will and accord,"
I flaid.
" Then you thought wrong, and His but right that I should un
deceive you."
She glanced towards the table, and saw that the servants were
still arranging the dishes and removing the wine from the coolers,
and that her Husband was listening to a story from the holy man.
" When my father died, four years since," the lady said, " he
left me under the care of Don Arturo, his oldest friend, with di
rections in his will that at fifteen I should marry the Don, or enter
a convent. In tlie latter case my wealth was to be divided : one
half was to enrich the convent that I entered, and the other half
to Belong to Don Arturo. After my father s death I was debarred
seeifcg any one excepting such friends as Don Arturo desig
nated, and those, of course, were loud in praise of his goodness
and amiable qualities, insisting that the woman who was blessed
with his hand would have great cause for rejoicing. I little
thought that he would adhere to the obligations of the will ; but
he did, and you see the result before you. For two years I have
been his wife, and two long years of woe and misery they have
been. Had I been dependent upon the charity of relations,
I could have used my eyes, and exercised my own choice in the
selection of a husband ; but unfortunately I was not poor more
reason jbr sorrow."
I pitied her from my heart as she told her griefs, and would
have given all the wealth I possessed to have been able to have
comforted her, or to have held her in my arms and called her
wife ; for I could not help thinking that we were much more
suited to each other in age and disposition than Don Arturo and
herself.
You now know why I say that friendships are dangerous ;
*and believe me, Guillermo, I weigh every word when I repeat
to you that we must in future meet as seldom as possible. It is
for your sake that I make the request, for I am young, passionate,
72 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
and easily swayed to good or evil, and may the Virgin help me
to avoid the latter." .
She laid her soft hand on mine as she spoke, and I felt my blood
bound through my veins as though each drop was a race-horse.
It seemed to me, as I heard her speak, that the earth was less
beautiful than before, and that the stars were less bright, and
that if I could steal from the room, I would mount a horse and
dash off through the darkness, regardless of danger, or where I
should finally stop. Yet I knew that she was right, and that
to cure my infatuation, absence from the shrine at which I had
worshipped so many months, was the only remedy, and I en
deavored to nerve myself for the contest.
" Guillermo," she said, in a low whisper, and with a soft pres
sure of her delicate hand, " you are not offendegl with me for
speaking thus plainly? I mean for the best."
" May the saints preserve you," I said, although I felt my heart
rise in my throat while speaking. " I have long felt the danger
of my position, and will now avoid it. The first ship that leaves
for China carries me as a passenger ; but I go with a broken
heart."
* No, no ! " she cried eagerly ; " remain in Manila, and let us
meet as often as once a week, or even more frequently, There
can be no harm in that. We can always see each other in com
pany, and exchange a few words."
I shook my head, for I doubted the expediency of such a
course.
" Do not answer now," she said, hurriedly ; " but meet me to
night in the corridor, while the company are flushed with wine,
and will not miss your presence. Drink sparingly, and still
think of me kindly."
As she- concluded, the holy father was shouting loudly for his
long-expected dinner ; and Don Arturo was glancing round the
room to find his wife.
" Ho, Senor Guillermo ! " shouted the holy father, striking
the table with a bottle of hock of an 4 excellent brand, a liquor of
which the good man was excessively fond. " Have you turned
priest, and are you assuming my prerogative by confessing the fair
Donna Teresa. By the good St. Veritus, but I shall interfere in
the matter."
" The lady s thoughts and petty sins are still her own," I said,
AT SUPPER. 73
advancing to the table, and seating Teresa by her husband s side.
" She would not make confession to a heretic ; so I was obliged to
entertain her with an account of our adventures this day in the
great swamp, and they have amused her, and perhaps excited her
The cloud which I saw gathering upon Don Arturo s brow dis
appeared under the strength of my reasoning, or the fumes of the
supper table, I could not tell which; and to tell the truth, I did
not care, for my spirit, from being crushed by the decision of the
fair lady, had suddenly assumed a buoyancy at her change of opin
ion that was entirely unusual.
We were soon in our places at the table, Allen on my right,
and Donna Teresa on iny left, while opposite to us were Mr. Huck-
ford and the holy father Benventuro, the latter with an appetite
like a hunter, and a digestion like an ostrich.
His eyes glared like those of a sensualist, as they wandered
over the rich viands which loaded the table ; and knowing his dis
position well, our host was not backward in helping him first, even
to the exclusion of all but the lady.
. " The church," said our host, as he sent the servant with a
huge plate, loaded with the best that the table contained, " must
and shall be respected. If the worthy father does not eat heartily,
I shall think he is not hungry, or else dislikes our slight enter
tainment."
" May the saints forgive you for your groundless suspicions,"
muttered, the priest, seizing his plate, and squaring his shoulders
for the contest, like a hunter before taking a dangerous leap ; and
for fifteen minutes he did not speak a word, but used his knife
and fork with as much skill as the best tactician could desire.
" By the way, we have not heard the adventures of the day,"
the father said, pausing in his exertions, and emptying his wine
glass, and then immediately challenging Donna Teresa to do the
same ; but the lady was prudent, and merely wet her red lips in
the generous liquor ; and the priest was too busy with his own
affairs to notice that she had not done justice to his pledge.
" Yes, let us hear the adventures of the day," cried the Span
iard ; " and remember that I have not forgiven you, young gentle
men, for leaving me out of the party. I had a right to expect
an invitation after the assistance that I rendered last night."
" We had no time to lose," Allen said, " or we should have
74 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
been pleased with your company and valuable aid. "We were
obliged to take the field before the dew was off the grass, or else
forego an important business."
" But remember I am not to Be put off in that way," cried
Don Artiiro. " I came here for a hunt, and shall remain here
until I have accomplished my object. If my wife does not like
that plan, she can return to the city in the morning."
I mentally hoped that she would take kindly to the arrange
ment, but was somewhat disappointed when she objected, and
hinted that it would be better if both returned to the city as soon
as possible, as she feared that some accident would happen if he
persisted in his dangerous expeditions.
This was sufficient to excite the obstinacy of the Don, for he
had been drinking freely, and thought that it was necessary for
his reputation that he should show becoming contempt of all
danger.
u I tell you, Teresa, that here I remain until I have had my
hunt, and here you remain until you have witnessed my exploits.
It is useless to remonstrate, for I am just as firm as a uock on
this point."
I bent my eyes upon the table, and strove to moderate the
transports which I felt at the old man s decision, for I knew that
the holy father was scanning my face with his glittering eyes, as
though he was endeavoring to read my very thoughts.
I remained immovable and impassive under his scrutiny, and
at length I heard him mutter, as he plunged his face in a huge
glass filled with sparkling wine,
" Diablo ! I must have been mistaken."
"At what?"
" In thinking that this was hock instead of champagne," he
replied; and then,* to change the subject, loudly called for a de
tailed statement of our adventures, and while Allen was relat
ing them, the good father would frequently interrupt him to pro
pose the health of the hunters, or the health of our host, or the
lady, or Don Arturo ; but I noticed that the priest was more par
ticular in seeing that my glass was filled to the brim than the rest
of the company.
At first I imagined it was owing to a sutMen friendship he
Lad contracted for me, and that the holy man wished to cement
the bonds thus formed in the juice of the grape ; but as i. noticed
A DRINKING BOWL. 75
his continued partiality, I had a slight suspicion that my brain
was to be tested, and while in a state of intoxication I was to
be sounded in relation to my feelings for the wife of the old
Spaniard.
The more I watched his proceedings, the stronger I felt assured
that it was the case, and I formed the resolution of letting the
good priest see that an American possessed as stout a head as
himself, and that in the end he would be baffled in his attempt to
extort my secret.
I never fancied a drinking bout, and was, usually, extremely ab
stemious, rarely taking liquor unless at a dinner-party, and never
then unless forced to do so by the custom of the country. But
what was most extraordinary, I possessed a head and brain that
were never known to yield to the influence of liquor, and were I
so disposed, I could drink for hours, and yet rise from the table,
and even the most fastidious lady in the land would never know
that wine had passed my lips, unless sh,e came in close contact
with them.
Knowing as I did that I .could drink the priest under the table,
I responded to his toasts, and proposed others, and mixed his
liquors until at length I got him to swallow half a tumbler of
French brandy, under the impression that it was wine ; and faith,
I don t think that he discovered his mistake. I could see the lit
tle gray eyes grow more luminous as the revel proceeded, and to
disarm the holy father of all suspicions, I pretended to be nearly
oblivious of all that was transpiring around the table.
Twice I stole glances at Donna Teresa s face, to see how she was
affected by the scene ; and each time that I did so I met the full
gaze of her large, melancholy eyes, as though reproaching me
for my want of discretion.
" Let me sing you a song-, senors," cried the holy father,
struggling to his feet, and insisting that all should join in the
chorus.
" But first let me retire," interrupted Donna Teresa, hastily ris
ing, with some alarnij for she probably imagined that the songs
sung -by an intoxicated man were hardly fit for a modest woman
to listen to.
" Go by all means," stammered her husband, who was too far
gone to assist the lady or himself.
76 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
She bowed coldly to the company, and accepting my arin v was
escorted to the door.
" I shall not fail you," I whispered. " At twelve I will be on
the corridor."
I spoke without the least show of intoxication ; and I could -see
a gleam of joyful surprise pass over her face as she listened.
With an inclination of her proud head, she passed through the
open door, and retired to her chamber.
" By all the saints in the calendar, but she is the fairest lady in
Manila," cried the holy father, with enthusiasm ; " and I will
propose a toast which all must drink, or I ll excommunicate them
from this blessed company, and compel them to drink river water
for the remainder of their lives. Fill, caballeros, arid drink to the
health of the fair Donna Teresa and her gallant husband."
The priest s eyes were on me as he spoke, and in spite of his
seeming Intoxication, I could see that he was studying my motions
and face to judge how I. liked the toast.
" I propose an amendment to the sentiment," I cried, just as
the company were raising their glasses to their lips. " Long may
they live, and long may they love each other."
" I accept the amendment," shouted the father, and with en
thusiasm we drank the toast, and were then bored for fifteen min
utes with a speech from the husband ; but what it referred to I
have no recollection, for I was thinking of my appointment, and
wondering how soon the Don and priest would lie under the table,
where I most sincerely wished them.
During the confusion, and while the priest was relating a
story, our host slipped off to bed, and the servants retired one by
one, until we were unattended.
But the wine was close at hand, and we could spare them ; and
the ofily consequence of our Host s absence was to draw our
chairs closer together, and smoke and drink more fierce than
ever.
" Did I ever tell you, Senor Allen, how the Mestiza girl played
a trick upon the good, but extremely cross father Vidas? " asked
Benventuro, as soon as the Don had concluded a story, which
every one laughed at, but no one thought funny.
" Never ; let us hear it without delay."
" Fill your glasses, and I ll commence. One day, three months
since, the worthy father was told that a young girl desired the
THE PRIEST S STORY. 77
benefit of confession, but had neglected to bring the usual offering,
a present,~and the fair penitent was sent home sadly troubled, and
uncertain \v1iat to do.
" I heard of her application, and determined to administer a
rebuke to the old tiger fpr his selfishness. I took occasion to visit
the girl, and gave her a few hints, and the next day she called
upon father Vidas, and reiterated her request ; and as she did
so, she held something in her hand, covered with a piece of
paper.
" Ah, this time you have brought something have you?
he said ; and the girl acknowledged that she had, but took care
not to mention what it was.
" She made a full confession, and got pardoned for all the sins
she had committed, and then my brother held out his hand for the
expected reward.
" I m very poor, holy father/ she said ; and so are my par
ents, and my lover, Pedro ; but I determined to bring you an
offering that would please you.
" Vidas rubbed his hands, and expected a peso at least.
" 1 1 heard, the girl continued? that last Sunday your favorite
game cock was killed in a fight, and that you lost much money
on the result.
" The good man growled like a tiger as he acknowledged that
such was the case.
" Knowing that you would lament the loss, I took the trouble
of getting my lover to cut the spurs from his legs ; and here they
are, neatly polished.
" She placed the paper in his hand, and fled from the church ;
and for two days the good man did not make his appearance in
public, but endeavored, by fasting and .prayer, to subdue the feel
ings which were in his heart. But he has not forgotten the
circumstance, and even now ft is dangerous to mention spurs to
him."
The story was told with many hickups and expressions not ne
cessary to be repeated here ; but when it was concluded, I saw
that the priest expected me to laugh ; so I did, and thereby won
some portion of his esteem. Don Arturo, who had hardly under
stood ten words that were uttered, swore that it was the best
thing that he had ever heard, and in endeavoring to get up and
shake hands with the narrator, lost his balance, and fell under the
78 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
*
table, and by the time that he struck the floor was snoring k most
unmusically.
"See what a sot a man will make of himself! " pathetically
nuittered the priest. " Wine is a harmless beverage when not
taken in immoderate ^quantities, and I always recommend it to
those who can afford to drink it, but not* otherwise. The Don s
head is weak, and he should be restrained by his friends from
over-indulgence."
The good father staggered to his feet, and assisted to raise the
insensible body, and across the room we swayed, the holy father
with the thin legs of the Spaniard in his grasp, while Allen and
myself held on to an arm apiece ; and as each of us was disposed
to deposit him in different places in the room, of course there was
some pulling and hauling of the unfortunate man, which he never
would have submitted to had he been in his sober senses.
" Well," exclaimed the priest, suddenly dropping the legs of
the poor Don, and wiping his brow with his fat hand, if you
two are not going to pull one way, I m going to stop and rest ; be
cause the man s joints are small, and will probably yield in the
pressure. Now, the question naturally arises, what shall be done
with him?"
" Carry him to his wife s room," promptly suggested Allen,
who had drank more than he should have- done ; and yet was
nearly as sober as myself.
" Monstrous proposition ! " .thundered the holy man, waving his
hand at Allen as though it was a war-club. " What ! place this
imbiber of liquor this drunken sot by the side of an angel,
and not expect an earthquake to occur? Think you that Venus
would submit to be outraged in that style? "
" But Venus has nothing to do with the matter, and therefore
can t interfere," replied the matter-of-fact Allen.
" Don t blaspheme in that manner," cried the holy man. " All
insults of such a gross natur.e to a handsome woman are recorded
in the Venus calendar ; and sooner than assist to lay him upon a
bed with Donna Teresa, I d throw him out the window. Mind
you, only upon compulsion, or with the above proviso."
" And sooner than allow such a thing," Allen exclaimed, " I d
drown you in the Pasig, and thus poison the river."
" Don t introduce the lady in your brawls," I said ; for I felt
perfectly indignant that the noble and high-minded woman should
MIXING LIQUORS. 79
be thus insulted by a fat priest, and my own particular friend,
who was trying to bring him out.
At length it was resolved to lay the insensible Don upon a mat
tress, and Allen and the priest left the room for a moment to find
one. While they were absent I fooked at my watch, and found
that it was quarter past eleven o clock, and I had but three quar
ters of an hour to finish my friends so that I could keep my ap
pointment with Donna Teresa, and have them suspect nothing of
what was going on. I was in despair, for the priest seemed as
though capable of drinking a barrel of wine, and yet retaining his
senses ; but a sudden thought occurred to me, and I prepared a
dose for him that even the most adamantine head would have ac
knowledged and yielded to. I emptied the decanter of brandy
into the champagne and hock bottles, and by the time the mat
tress was brought into the room everything was prepared for the
experiment. The Don was rolled on his bed and once more we
took our seats afc the table.
" Ugh," grunted the holy father, filling his glass, which would
hold half a pint, with the mixed liquor ; " how thirsty I feel after
the fatigue of putting that sot to bed.! He is one of that kind of
men who cannot drink in moderation and feel satisfied, but must
drown his stomach and senses with generous liquor which he
knows not how to appreciate. Let us drink to his wife, and wish
her a better husband."
I watched him narrowly while the glass was at his lips ; but he
did not appear to notice that his liquor had been tampered with,
and I had the satisfaction of seeing the last drop disappear down
his insatiate throat, and that he re-filled his goblet as though he
rather liked the change.
The priest attempted to sing a song, but failed ; and thinking
that it was owing to his thirst, up went hrs glass a second time,
well freighted with brandy, which had never seen water, and
strong sherry ; but the second dose was as strong as the first,
find in a few minutes I saw his head fall upon his breast ; but he
raised it again and strove hard to appear unconcerned ; but the
eyelids were heavy, and refused to remain open, and down with
a crash went the holy man s pate upon the table, and such sounds
proceeded from his nose that I no. longer questioned his insensi
bility.
Allen stood the siege a little better ; but when he saw that his
80 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
old friend was entirely used up, he attempted to make a fe\y re
marks upon the impropriety of drinking to excess ; but before he
had finished, he forgot what he was talking about, and concluded,
just five minutes before twelve, to sink into a quiet slumber, and
he did ; for which I was thankful, although all three snored so
loudly that I was fearful they would wake each other.
I left the table and plunged my head into a bowl of cold water,
bathed my temples until I felt my pulse reduced to a healthy
throb, and then, extinguishing all the lights excepting one,
opened the .door that led to the corridor, closed it carefully, and
after listening for a moment and hearing no sound excepting tEe
outrageous snoring that the Don, the priest, and Allen were in
dulging in, stole quietly along through the passage-way, turned
to the right, passed Donna Teresa s room, and then found myself
in the corridor, at one end of which was a grated window, that
had remained there from the time the old building was a convent,
a hundred years or more. The only light that penetrated the
long walk was from this single window ; so that I was compelled
to grope my way along carefully for fear of stumbling over the nu
merous antique settees which were placed in the corridor, more
for the purpose of getting them cxut pf the way than for family
use.
Suddenly my outstretched hands came in contact with some
thing that felt soft and warm ; and by tlfe dim starlight I saw be
fore me a vision in, white, which I was inclined to fall down and
worship.
" Guillermo," said the vision, in the low, sweet tones of Donna
Teresa, " how late you are ! I feared that something had happened
to prevent you from seeing me as you requested."
I did not tell her that she had made a slight mistake, and that
I was too modest a lover to have ever requested an interview at
that hour of the night. However, I managed to muster courage
enough to take her hand, and to plead that the hour was just
twelve, and that I was unable to see her before.
" I granted you this interview," Teresa said, making a slight
effort to disengage her hand, " to ask you not to leave Manila at
present, and to know if you will feel satisfied with my friendship,
cold and distant, but still true."
" If you so will it," I answered promptly, for it struck me that
the lady was acting the coquette on a grand scale, and that she
A LITTLE LOVE MAKING. 81
should be met as such. I no longer made an effort to imprison
her hand, but kept my distance, cold, but courteous. There was a
long silence, and I could see, by the starlight which entered the
grated window where we stood, that she was troubled at my indif
ference.
" The hour is late," she said at length. " I feel tired, and will
retire. y We shall meet in the morning shall we not?"
This time she extended her hand, and I could see her dark eyes
fixed upon my face as though reproaching me for my coldness.
I pretended not to notice her glance, but leaned against the
window and looked into the garden. I heard her take two or
three steps towards her room, and then pause and hesitate, as
though uncertain how to act.
" Good night, Guillerrno," she repeated.
" Good night, Teresa," I replied ; and again there was a pause.
I trembled for fear her haughty spirit w.ould prompt her to
leave me, in which case I should have had to yield, and made
ample protestations that I was not offended.
She still remained undecided what to do ; but at length, to my
intense joy, I felt her hand laid upon my shoulder, and then her
head, with it s wealth of dark hair, was laid against my breast,
and for the first time I heard Donna Teresa weep.
I threw my arms around her and pressed her close to my heart,
which was beating so wildly that it seemed as though it would
break ; and thus we stood for many minutes, silent and motion
less, for the lady made no attempt to disengage herself from my
embrace.
" You are angry with me," she said, at length, raising her large
black eyes, and looking at me so mournfully that I felt sorry for
my conduct.
I called Heaven to witness that I was not, and added a few
endearing words, which I have now forgotten.
" Let us be friends, very dear friends," she said ; " but for my
sake, let us meet hereafter as seldom as possible."
" And for my sake let us meet as often as we can," I replied.
She made no reply, but gently unclasped my hands and re
moved her head from my bosom.
" Answer me one question," she said at last ; and I could feel
her hand placed upon my shoulder to enforce attention.
" A dozen if you wish."
6
82 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Do you love^me ? " v
** As I hope for heaven, I do," I replied.
" I do not mean such love as most men profess ; but a sincere
passion, pure and true for you must recollect that I am bound
to a man whom I call husband, and that I would suffer death
sooner than live with him much longer."
" \Yith my whole heart, Teresa, I love you," I replied, after
a moment s pause ; " were you single, and would accept of me as
a husband, I would demote my life to your happiness, and cherish
you with such passionate love that even your exacting nature
could find no cause of complaint."
Her arms were around my neck again, and no opposition was
made to the warm kisses which I showered upon her red- lips.
" You will not leave Manila," she murmured.
" Not unless you go with me," I replied.
"" That I would -do willingly ; but my fortune is so disposed
that I cannot convert it into ready money."
" I do not ask for your fortune let your husband enjoy that
to his heart s content. I ask for you, and unless you are mine
at no distant day, life will indeed be a burden."
" Better have patience, until I can come to your arms an
honored wife," she said, starting back at my energy. " Let us
remain as we are for the present, and while we can be friends to
the world, we can love in secret."
" Do you promise me this? " I asked.
She laid her smooth cheek against my bearded face, and her lips
met mine in token of assont.
" Do you truly love me? " I asked, intoxicated with my happi
ness.
" I have loved you from the time I first saw you," was the
reply ; and I believed her, and swore an oath that I would be true
to her, and love her faithfully until death.
" Amen," cried a deep-toned voice at the end of the corridor ;
and then I heard steps as though some one was making a rspid
retreat to the sitting-room.
u We are lost ! " cried Donna Teresa, clinging closely to me
in her terror, thus preventing my following in pursuit.
" Remain here for a moment," I said, striving to unclasp her
arms ; but she only held me the more close in her embrace ; so I
raised ]ier with my right arm, and ran rapidly through the corridor
AN INTERVIEW WITH FATHER BENVENTURO. Page 83.
A DEMAND. 83
until I reached the lady s chamber, the door of which I opened,
and saw that a light was burning dimly -within.
I found that Teresa was nearly insensible with fear ; I laid
her upon a bed, and hastily whispered that I would return in a
few minutes, and announce who had dared to listen to our* con
versation.
Drawing a dagger I stole quietly from the chamber, and then
laid my hand upon the latch which led to the room where we had
dined. For a moment I paused to listen, but heard only the
deep breathing of those w r ho had drank so deeply that night at
the table, and whom I could hardly suspect of being sober enough
to play the spy, and yet I could think of none others.
I pushed open the door and entered, and to my surprise saw
half a dozen lamps were burning, and that seated at the table,
looking perfectly sober and self-possessed, yet still drinking freely,
was the holy father, Benventuro.
" Ah, Guillermo," he cried, when he saw me enter, " have
you returned to help me fin ish the bottles ? You have acted wise
ly. Draw up your chair, and I will open a fresh one."
" I am in no humor for jesting," I replied, taking my position
in front of the priest, and regarding him sternly.
" No, I should think not. People seldom jest with a knife like
that in their hands," he answered, quite composedly, pointing to
the dagger with one hand, and raising his full glass with the
other.
" I have a few questions which I wish to put to you," I said,
still regarding the holy man sternly ; but I could not perceive that
he was discomposed in the least.
" Are they of a pleasant nature, or of a theological turn? I
prefer the former to-night, for my blood is heated with wine, and
my thoughts are all concentrated for the good of myself and peo
ple. Let the questions be brief and humorous."
" Have you left the room within fifteen minutes? "
Yes."
He answered promptly, his black eyes fixed upon my face as
though he would read whether there was murder in my thoughts.
44 During your absence did you overhear a private conversa
tion ? " I demanded, my blood beginning to boil, and my thoughts
growing more wicked.
" I did overhear a conversation between "
84 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
He lowered his voice, and bent over the table, so that ^ wag
just enabled to hear him whisper the words,
" Donna Teresa and yourself."
I don t know what made me withhold my hand, and prevented
me frt>m striking him dead ; but by a mighty effort I was enabled
to do so.
" Your motive in playing the spy? " I demanded, fiercely.
" To benefit the lady, you, and myself," he answered, laconi
cally.
" Explain."
" Take a seat and I will," replied the priest, quite coolly.
I complied with the request, for the priest maintained so mys
terious an air, that I deemed it best to hear what excuse he had
to offer for intruding upon the privacy of Donna Teresa and
myself.
" Go on with your explanation," I said.
The holy father was about to comply with my request, when a
loud snore from Don Arturo attracted his attention.
" What I have to say to you must be known to us alone. Help
me to remove Allen and the Spaniard to another room. We can
accomplish our work carefully, and not awaken them."
I assisted the priest to lift the mattresses upon which the men
were sleeping, and we deposited them carefully in an adjoining
room, closed the door, and again took our seats at the table.
" A glass of wine together before I begin," father Benventtiro
said, holding out a bottle ; but I feared treachery, and declined.
" As you please there s the more left for me. Your health
and long life," he exclaimed, nodding his head as he drained his
glass.
" Your explanations," I cried, impatiently.
" Are these," the priest said, sinking his voice to a whisper,
and speaking earnestly. " I suspected this evening, when I
saw you and Donna Teresa standing at the window, that love
was at the bottom of your friendship ; so I resolved to watch you.
Don t frown, for I had no motive but curiosity, and little thought
that the subject would ever occupy my attention. I have had
some weaknesses in my eventful life, and am not disposed to chide
when others are guilty of a little sin. I did observe you, even
while I was pretending not to ; and the final result was, that I
became more and more convinced that the lady was indifferent to
A CONFERENCE. 85
her husband, and loved you with all the warmth and fervor of a
Spanish girl. I also saw that your cold, northern blood had been
stirred by the black eyes of Donna Teresa, and that you, too, was
devoted to her. So far so good. I looked upon you as a friend,
and was not disposed to interfere, for a few years since, even I
should have rebuked such presumption, had I been engaged h. a
suit tnat promised successful results."
" Why do you interfere, then? " I demanded.
" Patience, and I will let you know," was the soft answer, as
the priest refilled his glass. " I did not know certainly how long
you had been loving, and whether the pursuit was as profitable
as you could wish ; but I thought that this night there would be
a meeting between you, and I was the more convinced of the
fact when I saw you change the liquors, while I was engaged
in looking after Don Arturo s welfare."
" You saw me do. that? " I stammered.
" To be sure I did, my boy ; but I don t complain, because, in
the first place, I pretended to drink the mixed liquor, and I think
convinced even you that I did ; but if you had watched me closely,
you would have seen that I bowed my head upon my breast, and
all that my mouth contained was discharged between my cassock
and under-clothes. It was disagreeable, -and a great waste of good
stuff. But what was I to do? Be outwitted by an American,
or suffer the sharp practice, which I learned at a Jesuit college,
to fall into disrepute ? No, my son ; you did well, and deceived
Allen into the belief that he was drinking champagne instead of
strong brandy ; but a priest never leaves a table, if he expects to
return, without first noting how full his glass is, and its exact
position ; and if, during his absence, it has been changed, he drinks
no more at that table. You, see I am frank with you, my son,
because I expect that we shall be good friends hereafter, and
serve each pther with fidelity and zeal."
" To what does all this tend? " I asked.
" I have not reached that portion of my confession, rny son,"
replied Benventuro, mildly, refilling his glass, and again offering
to supply me with liquor from the same bottle from which he was
drinking ; but I feared treachery, a.nd once more declined. The
holy man smiled, and continued his conversation.
" I believe that I convinced you I was drunk, as I certainly
intended to, and had the satisfaction of seeing you make prepara-
86 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
tions for leaving the room, as sober, I believe, as when you entered
it last night ; and I could not help, as I lay upon the floor watch
ing your movements through half-closed eyes, paying you a high
compliment for your discretion for remember, nay son, that a
lover should never meet his mistress intoxicated, as he is apt to
say something which he would often repent of in his sober mo
ments. Besides, all the pleasures of an interview are lost while
the senses are clouded with liquor. I am too old a man not to
know the joy which lovers feel after being separated for a few
days. " Therefore, I repeat, always abstain from liquor while
contemplating a visit to a mistress ; and believe me that in
this instance you will find the advicfc of a priest worth re
garding."
I could but agree with him ; so bowed and suffered the
priest to fill my glass, although I was careful to note that the
goblet was perfectly clean and dry, and had not been tampered
with.
" Now you display sense, and I feel my heart yearn towards
you as though I had known you for years," the priest said, rub
bing his hands with an expression of cordiality that I found was
infectious, and almost regretted that I had drawn a dagger for
the purpose of ending the days of one who seemed so good a
friend.
" Finish your story," I said, putting the dagger in my pocket
an act that the priest paid not the slightest attention to.
" All right. Let me fill your glass again. The saints fbrgive
me for drinking as I have to-night ; but the liquor is good, and
the company pleasant, and I have been sorely tempted to an in
dulgence. It is a sin, and I know it well enough ; but I don t like
to iufli-ct penance upon myself, eve if I have to upon others ; so
that I am fearful I shall never be uured until all the vintages fail.
But I see that you are impatient ; so we will despatch our busi
ness without unnecessary delay ; but first let me ask you a few
questions, and I will tell you candidly that much depends upon
your answers. First, do you really love Donna Teresa? Take
time to answer. I don t mean, do you love her because she is
Don Arturo s wife, and not your own, for a gallant s love is not
as stable as a mountain, or as fiery as a volcano, although to hear
him swear one would think so.
" Do you love the lady with that disinterested love which would
THE SUBJECT IS IMPORTANT. 87
prompt you to marry her were she a maid or a widow, without
wealth?"
" You have no right to ask the question/ I said, coldly.
" 1 acknowledged that some time since, my son, and must put
but one interpretation upon your conduct. You love the lady be
cause she is another s."
" By all the saints that a good Catholic swears by, I love the
lady for herself alone, and would take her to my arms as my wife
this very night, were I able to do so."
" Spoken like a man," replied the priest, his black eyes flashing
with excitement ; and his hand trembled as he filled my glass and
his own. " You love the lady, and she loves you. That I know,
for I overheard her confession to-night, and what I suspected
before I am certain of now. She is worthy of the love of a
ling, and I am glad that she has found favor with an American
sovereign."
" What else do you want?" I asked, somewhat impatiently.
" You have a motive in questioning me, and I must exercise the
same right. You know that I am a Protestant, and that I can
not marry Donna Teresa, even were she a widow, without chan
ging my religion."
u That is the point to which I wish to bring you," cried the
priest, lowering his voice to a whisper, and leaning over the table.
As he did so a large wooden cross, which he wore around his
neck, struck the dishes and attracted his attention. * Here," he
exclaimed ; " swear upon this cross an oath, solemn and impres
sive, that you will marry Donna Teresa in three months after she
is a widow."
" What do you mean? " I asked, in amazement. " She is not
a widow, and not likely to be one for these ten years. And eveu
if she were, my religion would prove an objection."
" You shall remain a Protestant as long as you live, in your
heart and feelings, and the lady can do the same in regard to her
Catholicity. I don t think you will make the lady any the less
happy on account of religious difference.".
" You are trifling with me," I said, with some show of anger.
" I swear to you that I am not ; and I further swear that I
mean to act for the happiness of Donna Teresa and yourself, and
in such a manner that you will both bless me."
I smiled in scorn at the words, and the priest noticed it.
88 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Listen to m j for a moment, and then judge whether I will
perform the part which, with your consent, I intend to play. Don
Arturo is an old man, nearly seventy years of age, and is tronhled
with disease of the heart, which is liable to take him to a better
world at any moment. This he knows, and has made all due
provision for a sudden exit. When he clies, his immense wealth
will revert to his widow, for most of it belonged to her father, an
excellent man, but a great fool to suppose that his beautiful child
could ever find happiness in the arms of a person old enough to
be her great-grandfather."
" How dp you know all this ? " I asked, with more curiosity
than I had yet felt.
" Through his confessor, Father Juan, of the Sebastian Con
vent. You have seen him, and he has seen you ; and let me
whisper this in your ear in confidence he looks not upon you
with any degree of favor."
" I never exchanged ten words with him in my life, for I like
not his looks," I replied, with a vivid remembrance of the suspi
cious glances which I had seen him cast upon me when in the
company of Donna Teresa and her husband.
4 But he fears your influence upon the lady in case her husband
dies. Another secret let me confide to you the holy father sus
pects the passion which you cherish, and he is watching with
Argus eyes for developments. Even a servant in this house is in
his pay to spy your proceedings ; so let me again caution you how
you act when in the presence of the lady."
" But what benefit can Father Juan expect to derive by inter
posing between us ? " I asked.
. " Wealth and promotion," was the brief rejoinder ; and Father
Benventuro filled his glass, and smiled.
" Explain your meaning."
u Nothing more easy. When Don Arturo dies, the good Father
Juan hopes to persuade Donna Teresa to enter the convent of St.
Sebastian ; and,*if she should, her wealth would make the convent
the most rich and influential in Manila, and plain Father Juan
would be made a bishop for his services in securing so much money
to the holy church."
" There is no fear of Donna Teresa s entering a convent," I
said, confidently. " She desires to see the world and enjoy
life."
A LITTLE PLOTTING. 89
The Holy man smiled disdainfully, and even swallowed a full
goblet of wine before he could compose his reply.
" Let me ask if such would be the case, if any accident should
happen to you, whom I have reason to believe she loves with all
the devotion of a first love. Suppose, for instance, you should soon
follow the old Spaniard, and while her grief was. fresh, a proposal
was made that she should enter a convent, and devote her life to
religious duties, as the surest way of meeting you hereafter.
Think you that she could withstand the pressure that the holy
church would make, not to secure her happiness, but the millions
she could command?" .
" But I flatter myself that no accident, as you term it, is about
to happen to me," I replied, confidently.
The good priest smiled, and drew from his pocket three silver
dollars, which he placed upon the table.
" With such a paltry sum could I purchase your life, and the
most rigid investigation would never lead to my detection, simply
because the tool that I should employ would suppose that all
chance for future happiness would be lost, should he betray a
pillar of the church. Think you that I am the only priest in
Manila, or on the island, who possesses the same power?"
Well might I feel startled at so candid a confession ; and for a
few minutes I could only ruminate upon such a fate as my com
panion had pictured becoming a reality.
" Drink, Guillermo, and don t let what I have said prevent you
from continuing to love the lady as warmly as ever ; for upon this
holy cross I swear that if you will comply with my demands, and
take an oath to that effect, I will shield you from all harm, and
never cease to work until you and Donna Teresa are one."
" Who would marry a high-born Catholic lady to a Protestant?"
I asked. " " It is in direct violation of your instructions from the
archbishop ; and even if the marriage was legal, the priest would
be degraded, and perhaps dismissed from the .church."
" I grant that," replied the holy man, composedly. " But if
you are first married by the American consul, and then by me, or
any other Catholic priest, I would like to see the court or tho
bishop that would dare to interfere with your happiness."
" But how could you shield yourself from the archbishop s
wrath?" I asked.
" In a very simple manner," the priest said, smiling. " I be-
90 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
lieve that he has some love for me, and he has shown it many
times, even if I do like a hottle of wine once in a great while.
The archbishop is but human, after all, and if I should appear
before him after I had concluded the ceremony, which, by the
way, should be performed in the presence of your friends, and a
few of the lady s ; and even they must not know for what purpose
they are assembled, and should say, My lord, I have married
the widow of Don Arturo to a Protestant, because I think that
she will convert him in time to the true faith, and because he
generously presented the church, of which you are the head in
this country, with five thousand dollars "
u But you know, and I repeat to you now, that there is no
prospect, much as I love Donna Teresa, of my changing my
religion," I said, firmly.
" Even if you do not,, is there any necessity of sending a crier
around the streets proclaiming that you are a Protestant, and will
die in the faith? If you marry the lady, you will consult your
own interest and safety by speaking as little of your religion as
possible, and let the opinion gradually gain ground that your wife
is converting you. This I shall ask for appearances, for not an
assassin in Manila "would dare raise his hand against a man whom
the holy church hoped to convert. Ask questions of the reverend
fathers, and listen in silence to their discourses, and if you must
argue, do so with the firm intention of being vanquished. Do but
this, and many years of happiness will be your portion."
" But I shall have to play the part of a rank hypocrite to do all
that," I said.
" Does not the merchant dissemble when he desires to dispose
of his goods, or the sea captain when he promises good food to
his passengers, or even the lover when he swears that he will be
faithful to his mistress, yet violates his vows every time that an
opportunity occurs. Hypocrisy, my son, is a sin, but the world
is full of it, and even when we avoid speaking our minds, we are
guilty of the crime. Let not so common a thing influence you,
for there is not a priest, Roman or Protestant, but will absolve
you from the charge."
" Now, one question more, I said, fixing my eyes upon the
priest ; and he met my gaze without flinching. " How shall I
account for the interest that you take in my proposed happi
ness?"
THE PROPOSITION. 91
The priest laughed silently, and helped himself liberally to wine
before he replied,
" Through your advancement must I thrive."
-"How so?"
" I told you that Father Juan would be made a bishop, if he
porsuaded Donna Teresa to enter the convent of Sebastian. I
am more liberal than he, and know the wants of a pretty woman
better. I desire that she shall re-marry, and through such
means I expect to be a bishop."
I started and gaz6d long and earnestly at the man to see if he
was not joking ; but I could see no trace of humor on his broad
countenance.
" You wish to be a bishop? " I inquired.
. " That position I am aiming at, and hope to gain it in prefer
ence to Father Juan, who is my rival, and has been for years.
If you but aid me, it is within my grasp, for a vacancy exists and
will shortly be filled."
u I possess no influence with the aichbishop, or with the pope,"
I said.
" I know that as well as you," replied the holy man, quickly.
" I don t require your personal influence, but I do want your
money."
I could only stare at the priest in astonishment, while he con
tinued :
" I want to make a fair and candid bargain with you, and one
that shall be binding.. You say that you love Donna Teresa. I
don t doubt it, and I am glad to see that she loves you. Of
the latter I am certain, for I have heard of you and the lady
long before I had the pleasure of an introduction. You have
saved her life. That she will never forget as long as she lives,
for Spanish ladies are grateful, and sometimes prodigal in the
expression of their gratitude. You are young and active, and
therefore just the sort of man to please a woman as romantic as
Donna Teresa."
" To the point," I said, hastily.
" I will, without delay. As I said before, the days of Don
Arturo are numbered," continued the priest, sinking his voice to
a whisper, and fixing his glittering eyes upon me as though he
was reading my thoughts. " When he dies, the lady will control
one or two million dollars worth of property, and I need not say
92 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
that is a haDdsome sum for a man to take with a pretty wife.
Now, I propose to help you to both wife and money, provided, of
course, you will help me."
"But how?" Tasked.
" That question is easily asked and easily answered, yet I feel
reluctant to speak out as openly as I could wish," the priest said.
I motioned him to go on, and after emptying his glass he did so.
" To conciliate the archbishop I must give him five thousand
dollars, and that is not a large amount when you fully understand
the danger of marrying a Protestant to a Catholic, and* shielding
him from harm."
" It is not an unreasonable sum," I remarked.
" I supposed that you would say so," the priest said, dryly,
and continued ; " but hear me through, and then decide. To
obtain the title of bishop, I must have twenty thousand dollars to
expend in making presents to influential friends ; and to maintain
my* position in state after I get my promotion, I must have
twenty-five thousand dollars- more, making in all fifty thousand
dollars. Now you have heard my proposition, and know what
to make of it."
" Why did you not say one hundred thousand dollars, instead
of fifty ? " I inquired.
" Simply because I shall get the fifty thousand, and J could not
the one hundred thousand," answered the priest, regardless of my
sarcasm.
" When you do you will be much older than you are now," I
replied ; and I was about to rise from the table, when the holy
man gently detained me.
" Let us drink one glass together, to show our friendship," he
urged.
While I hesitated he poured out the wine, and I swallowed it ;
the next instant I found that I was sitting at the table with feel
ings entirely different from those I possessed two minutes be
fore. I could not account for the change, and "I have never been
able to since ; but I am inclined to the opinion that the Jesuit was
more than a match for the American, and that, for one moment
while I was off my guard, a powder was emptied into my wine
glass, which subdued -my stubborn nature, and moulded me to the
plans of the ambitious priest, so that I could not recede when iny
senses returned unclouded.
THE BARGAIN. 93
" Remember, I ask no advance of money until the lady is yours
by marriage," the priest said, when he saw that I had emptied
my glass ; "I assist you to a fortune of nearly two million dol
lars, and only ask -a trifling percentage. What man in his senses
would refuse such an offer? -Without my aid you get nothing,
and will even lose the lady whom you love more than you do the
money."
" 1 consent," was my reply.
" Then lay your hand upon this cross, and swear before God
and me that in three months after Donna Teresa is a widow you
will marry her, and in three more you will convey to me the
money which you have promised."
I placed my hand upon the cross and swore the required oath,
and just as I had concluded, the door was thrown violently open,
and before us stood Don Arturo, looking wild and haggard, and
gasping as though for breath.
CHAPTER IV.
DON ARTURO S DREAMS. A MOMENT S ABSENCE. AN EXCUR
SION. A WONDERFUL SPRING. THE LADRONES.
EVEN the holy father was startled at the sudden appearance of
the old Spaniard, who we supposed was sleeping off the effect
of his debauch ; and Lcould not forbear a shudder at the interrup
tion, when I recollected the unholy compact which I had just
entered into regarding the man s wife. It seemed to, me as though
some supernatural means was connected with the visit, and that
it was intended as a warning for me to desist from further pursuit.
The priest was visibly annoyed, and drowned his confusion in
liberal draughts of wine ; but I had not the power to do so.
" How now, Don Arturo ! " the holy man said, with one of his
assumed expressions of jollity. " I thought that you were sleep
ing soundly."
" I have slept," replied the Spaniard, rubbing his eyes and star
ing at me and the priest as though uncertain whether we were
94 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
real flesh and blood, or mere counterfeits ; " and I have dreamed
most unkind dreams."
" The subject, man on what subject?" cried the holy father,
with a most cheerful smile.
" I thought that my wife "
" Your wife," repeated Benventuro, with a laugh ; " why, may
the saints bless me if I didn t think you had dreamed that your
fortune was swallowed up by an earthquake, or a typhoon, and
that there was no insurance. Go back to bed after wetting your
lips with wine, and dream something more pleasant."
The Spaniard shook his head, but he didn t decline the wine,
and even took a seat at the table, much to the annoyance of the
father, who evidently wished him in some other place just at that
time.
" And you, my friend," continued the Don, turning to me and
grasping my hand, " were strangely mixed up in my dream. I
thought that I was dead, and that before my body was cold you
espoused Teresa, and squandered my fortune. I awoke with a
fright, and intended to rush to my wife s room to see if it was a
reality or indeed a dream, when I mistook the door and entered
here. The saints be praised that I did so, for I should have
sadly alarmed my wife at this unseasonable hour."
" Thus do I put to flight all horrid dreams and unkind suspi
cions," cried the priest, rising in his chair and dashing a feft
drops of water over the Spaniard s head. "Diablo veneer I Give
yourself no more uneasiness, my friend, for the saints have you
in their keeping."
" Then to the saints do I return praise," replied the Don, with
a feeling of relief which was charming to. behold. " Guillermo,
forgive me, for I spoke without thought."
" Of course he forgives you, for the Americans are not a re
vengeful people," chimed in the priest, with a touch of his foot to
mine as a hint to be as cheerful as possible. " Come, let us drink
and forget the cares of yesterday, for we find enough to-day to en
gross our thoughts."
Whether the Spaniard was thirsty, or really miserable, I know
not ; but he drank deeply, and was plied with liquor so skilfully
by the priest that in half an hour s time he was no longer cogni
zant of earthly things, even if he was of heavenly ones, and down
went his head upon the table, and he again slept.
A MOMENT S ABSENCE. 95
<l Go and whisper a few words of love to Donna Teresa,"
the priest said, in a tone not above his breath, for he was
Jesuit enough to suspect that the Spaniard might be feigning
slumber for the purpose of listening to our conversation, and find
ing out whether we were really plotting against his welfare or not.
I glanced at the sleeping husband, and declined the command.
" I will attend to him if he should stir during your absence,"
the priest said, with a smile that looked malicious, it was so en
tirely different from his usual jovial one.
" Remember," I said , as low and deliberately as I could, " that
there are to be no unfair means resorted to to hasten the approach
of the events we have spoken of. If I have reason to suspect
that my friend is likely to be tampered with, 1 shall annul our
contract and quit the island, even if I should never exchange a
word with Donna Teresa again."
The priest gazed long and earnestly at me, as though he was
satisfying himself that I meant it, and then he rose from the
table and led me to the window, where he continued to speak in
whispers.
" I am neither a poisoner nor an assassin," he said ; " and
were it not for the purpose of defeating the plans of Father Juan,
I would instantly renounce the cause which I have taken up, and
let you lose the great happiness that is in store for you. I sup
posed that you understood me to refer to natural events, and not
unnatural ones."
" A thousand pardons for my unjust suspicions," I said, hasti
ly. " I did not so interpret you, and it was to prevent any mis
understanding that I renewed the conversation."
" To prove that I mean honestly by you, and by the Spaniard,
I shall give you but five minutes for a few whispered words to
the lady. Now go, and return in that time, or I will no longer
aid you.".
He spoke like a man who meant what he said, and although I
pleaded for an extension of time, it was not granted me. He re
turned to the table, and again drew the bottles towards him.
" I drink a glass of wine a minute," he said, filling his tum
bler ; " by the time I have drank five, let me see you return."
As he raised his glass to his lips I left the room and entered
the lady s apartment, which was lighted by a wax candle that
stood near the Virgin and her Child, and before which Donna
96 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
Teresa never failed to perform her devotions upon retiring to
rest.
I remained for a moment at the door, and could hear her low,
regular breathing, and with a half-muttered prayer for her safety,
turned and fled from the room like a coward. I was not base
enough to steal the kiss I wanted.
" You are within time by two glasses," said Benventuro, look
ing up in astonishment. " What is the matter?"
" She sleeps," I whispered ; " and not to save my soul would I
disturb her."
" Bueno" muttered the father ; " if you will be as considerate
for three months to come, I shall die a bishop, for no one can
withstand such delicacy."
" You will forgive me if I retire," I said, after a few minutes
silence. " I have had a hard day s work, and feel the need of
sleep. You know whereryour room is, and don t need my assist
ance in finding it. If you can drink more wine, pray do so, for
there is an abundance."
The priest laughed and excused me, but gave as a reasoii for
not retiring just then, that he had a few pious meditations which
he desired to indulge in undisturbed, so that he could be ready to
assume his high station when called upon.
As I passed the lady s chamber,. I saw that the key of the door
was on the outside. I know not what prompted me, but I turned
the key and then withdrew it from the lock, and slipped it under
the door, so that Teresa could find it when she arose at daylight,
or when she desired to leave the room. Perhaps I had a faint
suspicion that the holy man might seek, duriifg his drunken hal
lucination, an interview with her, and conduct himself in an un-
priestly manner, or, at least, explain the infernal compact, which
he had bound me to perform by a solemn oath, while I was labor
ing under some strange aberration of mind, produced, I was al
most confident, by a powder or drug. Yet, strange to say, confi
dent as I was that my wine had been tampered with, I could not
muster sufficient resolution to repudiate the scheme, and thus lose
all chance of obtaining the lady in case her husband should die
and leave her free. I had gone too far to recede without
great danger to myself and her, .and I knew that if I breathed to
the holy father my intention of not complying with the obliga
tions I had assumed, my life would not be worth the value of a
THE NEXT MORNING. 97
bag of paddy, for sometimes, in the Eastern world, blows fall
heavily, but secretly ; and when a blow fails, drugs are resorted to
with great dexterity and despatch.
My thoughts, as I threw myself upon my bed, in a room where
Allen was snoring, were none of the most pleasing, and for many
hours I lay tossing to and fro like a stout ship in a heavy sea.
At one time I half resolved to confide all to my friend Allen ;
but recollected that he would involve himself in the affair as
eagerly as though I was a brother, and that he would scorn all
danger for the sake of extricating me from the position in which
I stood ; so I concluded to keep him in ignorance of the designs,
of the priest, and let the secret remain in my own breast, even
if it consumed me.
With this resolution I fell asleep, and did not awaken until I
heard the factory bell tolling the hour for breakfast ; and when I
looked up, Allen was in the room with a strong cup of tea,
which he imagined I needed to quiet my nerves after the night s
debauch.
" How s your head?" my friend asked, while I was endeavor
ing to collect my scattered senses.
** The wine was too pure to leave an ache ; but still I feel like
a man whose sins are unrepcnted of," I replied.
"Well, drink this tea, and go with me to the river for a
bath ; and then I ll warrant you will no longer think of sin, but
happiness. Come, Father BeuveTituro is already astir, and call
ing loudly for his bretikfast, and Donna Teresa looks often to
wards the door of your room, for the purpose of getting a view
of your pale face. Come, will you have a bath this glorious
morning, or must I swim ajone?" *
" I m with you," was my response ; and in a few minutes we
were bathing in the cool, clear river.
When we were gathered around the table, the priest looked as
fresh and as full of life as though he had passed the night in re
pose, instead of a wild drinking bout ; and even the Spaniard did
not dare complain that he felt languid, for fear that his wife, who
graced the board with her presence, looking as lovely as a full
blown rose, should find some fault at his absence from her cham
ber during the night. Once or twice she looked at me* as though
she would like an explanation in regard to the interruption
which we had experienced* on the corridor ; but I was careful no.
7
98 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
to speak to her unless a third party* was near, for I felt that k the
eyes of the priest, and even of Don Arturo, were on me ; and once
let suspicion enter the mind of a jealous Spaniard, and the work
of years is required to eradicate it.
" How are we to pass the day ? " demanded Don Arturo, as he
leisurely sipped his chocolate ; " shall we. hunt or ride? "
" I have arranged the whole of it," interrupted the priest,
hastily ; " we will visit St. Marco s Spring, which is about two
miles from the convent. The waters of which act like magic
upon the system, and even old men are rejuvenated by drinking
.therefrom, while young ones obtain a new lease of life by merely
visiting the spot. The scenery is the handsomest on the island,
and is well worthy the attention of lovers of nature."
" But we have no time to make preparations," Allen said.
" There is no occasion to make them, for I sent word to the
convent to have a collation at the spring by noon ; and be assured
that it will be there. Thus I propose to repay the kindness, in
some measure, which I have received at your hands."
" But the heat of the sun will be an objection," suggested
Allen.
u There is not to be found so cool a spot this side of Green
land," cried the priest. I saw that he was determined to carry his
point so listened in silence.
" But how is Donna Teresa to go ? or do you mean that she
shall pass her time in solitude?" the Spaniard asked.
" Of course she must go with us, or else our pleasure would be
so mixed with selfishness that we should cease to enjoy it. You
will find saddled horses for the party, and a palfrey for the lady,
awaiting us ; and now let us despatch our breakfast and be off."
Donna Teresa had no objections to the excursion, and her hus
band was delighted when he found that we proposed to carry
rifles in hope of meeting with some game during our stay. The
old gentleman helped himself to a gun, and talked loudly of his
former exploits, while we were getting ready, and his wife
was dressing in a costume suitable for travelling and horseback
exercise ; but when she did appear, with a charming straw hat,
trimmed to suit her rich complexion, there was a universal ex
pression of admiration at her wondrous beauty, and even Allen
condescended to compliment her on her good looks something
that he had not done before during our acquaintance.
UP THE RIVER. 99
A large banco was waiting for us at the factory landing, manned
by four of the convent servants, who received the holy father
Benventuro with many expressions of reverence and esteem, and
which he repaid with the utmost indifference.
"Drive those dogs on shore ! " shouted the Driest, as soon as he
stepped on board and saw two of our best dogs had determined to
follow us ; " this is no place for dogs, for we go on a party of
pleasure ; .besides, I think that one of them looks hydrophobish."
This suggestion was sufficient to excite the alarm of Don Arturo
and his wife, and the poor brutes, which had not the slightest idea
of going mad, were ruthlessly driven on shore in spite of my re
monstrances.
" Hush ! " whispered the priest, while I was endeavoring tc
overcome his foolish fears ; " I never do anything without a
motive."
I looked for an explanation ; but the priest declined to give one,
and even avoided speaking with me when I whispered and asked
what was intended.
* We pushed up the stream slowly, and chatted on almost every
subject, until we reached the bridle path that led to St. Marco s
Spring, where we found horses from the convent awaiting us, and
one that seemed worthy to carry even. Donna Teresa, with a
lady s saddle upon its back, blazing with gilt and ornaments.
" The unmarried portion of the party must wish most fervent
ly, and if with, sincerity, they will be gratified with a sight of the
faces of their future wives," the holy father said, while the party-
were diserfibarking.
Of course the gentlemen of the company scouted the notion,
but the lady looked thoughtful, as though she had some confidence
in the spring, and would need but little urging to test its truth
fulness.
" All ready, senor," said Antonio to the priest.
" Then forward, in the name of St. Peter, who never travelled
without carrying refreshments, and therefore should be honored
in preference to those good men who depended upon the wayside.
Antonio, see that the mule with the hamper is carefully guided,
for I famish for a drink of wine and a sandwich, and anything
more substantial that you may possess. Senor Allen, will you
ride after the knaves and overlook their proceedings, for I have
important state matters to talk over with Don Arturo."
100 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" But what shall I do? " I asked.
" You may ride by the side of Donna Teresa, and guide hef
palfrey s head, for the road is rough in places, and she will need
a stout arm. Don t keep close to me, for I have, privacy to com
municate." "
The Spaniard was too inquisitive to object to the programme,
and I saw by the expression of Donna Teresa s face, that she
liked the arrangement. I lifted her to her saddle, and in a few
moments the cavalcade had started.
For the first few rods our course was beside the Pasig, and
through a deep valley that was "filled with orange trees in their
bloom, resembling a field of snow, so white and clean did they
look. After crossing the valley, however, we left the river and
commenced ascending the small hills which we had often noticed
before, and determined to explore for game, but something had
prevented.
The morning was delicious, for the sun was not high enough
to be felt, and the air that swept over the hills was laden with
the perfume of the orange and mango groves, and was almost in
toxicating to the senses.
For the first half mile of our journey we were compelled to
keep within sight of our companions ; but when the bridle path
grew more unequal and rugged, Donna Teresa suffered ner palfrey
to lag behind, and I was too gallant to suffer her to be alone. I
checked my horse, and we rode side by side, so near that I could
touch her hand when she was careless in guiding her animal.
% " You did not return to me last night, Guillermo," she said at
length ; and I knew by her face that she had long been desirous
of asking an explanation, but her modesty had prevented her.
" I returned," I answered, " but you slept, and I dared not
disturb you."
She blushed deeply, and seemed to admire the windings of the
river, for she turned her head and was silent for some moments.
" You have not told me," she said at length, " why you were
absent so long, and whether you discovered the person who played
the spy upon our movements."
" I was absent longer than I intended, because interesting topics
were discussed by Father Benventuro and myself, and found
that the priest had forgotten his ghostly duties, and had turned
eavesdropper."
A CONFERENCE. 101
" Then we are lost, Guillermo," she cried, witVev&ry indica
tion of alarm, dropping her bridle and clasping my arm, as though
she feared a separation.
" I trust not," I replied, kissing her hand, and stealing an arm
around her slight waist ; and although the position was not a
comfortable one, it was too tempting to be relinquished readily.
" It was to disclose our secret that the priest sought the inter
view with Don Arturo," she said. " Alas ! all our happiness will
soon be at an end."
" May it never end, Teresa," I whispered ; and as her dark,
mournful eyes were raised to mine, I could net resist the tempta
tion, but was compelled to kiss her red lips in spite of her faint
entreaties to desist.
The horses, as though aware that some mischief was going on.
began prancing and arching their necks, and, confound them,
compelled me to relinquish my clasp upon the best proportioned
wa ist to be found in Manila.
" Tell me all that passed between you and the priest," she said,
as soon as our animals were quiet.
" That I cannot do at present, but I will tell you that the holy
father smiles upon my suit, and will help me to obtain your hand,
if Heaven, in its mercies, should direct that you become a widow
within, a reasonable length of time."
" Do not jest, Guillermo," she said, with a face so sorrowful
that I regretted my levity. " Although I do not love my hus
band, yet should I weep bitterly at his death ; and I think you
would love me none the less for doing so."
" Heaven knows that I love you, Teresa, and I think that you
are well aware of the fact ; but if I thought that you were heart
less and merciless, I should avoid you as though death lay in my
path. I desire your hand as an honorable man, and will use only
honorable means to secure it."
She pressed my arm in token of her acknowledgment of tho
course which I had taken, and then I related the long conversation
which I had had with the priest, and the designs of Father Juau
to force her entrance to a convent for the sake of her fortune.
I did not think it was prudent to mention the amount of money
that I had bound myself to .pay for the sake of obtaining her
hand, fpr I reasoned that, as a general thing, women know but
little about business, and I calculated that perhaps she would
102 , LIFE JN THE EAST INDIES.
think she was valued too highly, and so object to the transaction,
although I was resolved, that if ever she became my wife, I would
sacrifice my interest in the commercial house of which I was a
member, and, with my private funds, make up the amount
claimed by the priest, so that her fortune should not be en
croached upon.
44 Tell me, Guillermo, why the Father Benventuro is so inter
ested in our love?" Teresa asked, at length.
" Simply to defeat the designs of Father Juan, and prevent
him from reaching the rank of bishop by means of your fortune/
" If they think to induce me to enter a convent, they know not
how much they are mistaken,", she said, with one of her resolute
expressions, which I seldom saw upon her fair face ; but before I
had time to further allude to the subject, we came upon the rest
of our company, who were reclining beneath the shade of mango
trees, smoking cheroots, while Antonio and the other servants
were spreading a collation upon the rich grass.
" Well, you have loitered by the way, or else strayed from the
path, for we have been here for half an hour," Allen said, as we
appeared in the vicinity of the spring.
" Ah, I feared that palfrey would give you trouble," interrupted
.the priest, before I had an opportunity to speak. " The beast
resolutely persists in refusing to travel in this direction, although
no objection is made in returning home. You now know, Don
Arturo, why I placed a stout arm at your wife s bridle rein."
The Spaniard, I thought, did not appear as profoundly grateful
as I could wish under the circumstances ; but he did find voice to
mutter a few words of thanks for my gallantry in confining my
self to his wife, and even advanced to assist her from the saddle ;
but in this I was before him, for I doubted if he was strong
enough to sustain her stately form.
" I must change the palfrey, or else sell her, for she is restless
with ladies," the priest said, patting the sleek sides of the brute,
and speaking so that Don Arturo could hear him ; and I -think
that the holy father at length lulled all suspicions that our loiter
ing by the way was one of design.
" The collation is ready, senor," cried Antonio ; and the priest
rubbed his hands with satisfaction at the news.
We repaired to the spot where were spread cold chicken, sand
wiches, tongue, jellies, game, pies, and several kinds of fruit,
THE SPRING. 103
while for liquors we had an excellent brand of champagne, cooled
in the icy water of the spring ; and I noticed that Antonio, with
a full knowledge of his master s weakness, had provided an abun
dant supply of the generous wine more, in fact, than I thought
becoming for the character of the party.
Benventuro played the host to perfection, and saw that each
one was helped liberally before he would undertake to satisfy his
own wants ; but when the first bottle of champagne was uncorked,
his usual flow of animal spirits commenced, and continued until the
conversation was confined to the miraculous virtues of the holy
spring, which was within a few rods of us, and, but for the cold
ness of its waters, presented no great attraction, although the
grove in which it was situated was beautiful as fairyland is rep
resented to be.
" I want all to promise me that there shall be no looking into
the spring, and. repeating prayers to the blessed St. Marco, for
the purpose of obtaining a view of the faces of expectant wives.
Those present who are married, of course, will have no such de
sire, and it is to caution the young folks that I speak."
Now, if the priest was really in earnest in his remonstrance, it
was a good plan to excite our curiosity ; and when. I saw that
Donua Teresa looked at me as though advising that I should test
the power of the spring, I declared tha.t I would never leave the
grove until I had seen my future wife s face, provided, of course,
the good St. Marco was disposed to gratify me. Allen also in
sisted tljat his rights were inviolate, and that he had good reason
to believe that his future wife was somewhere in the world, and
that she was as eager to see him as he was her ; therefore it was
but right that an interview should take place, and as speedily as
possible ; " for perhaps," Allen said, " I may change my mind
after a fair view of the lady s face, and it is only right that I
should give her warning, so that she can get a more congenial
mate."
I strongly Suspect that the priest was desirous that I should test
the water, although he pretended that he was not ; but after he
had drank his second bottle of wine, he gave his consent, and
volunteered to do the praying while the rest of us were to take
our chances at wife-seeing.
Bn venture led the way to the spring, followed by the company,
all in good spirits, and laughing at the absurdity of the test which
104 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
we proposed to indulge in. It was decided that Allen should
have the first look, while I followed as second, and then if Donna
Teresa and her husband were curious, they should come last.
" I wish to impress upon your minds," the priest said, in a
whisper, " there must be no levity connected with this ceremony-;
if there is, we fail of our object."
" If you had said there must be no intoxication, I should have
despaired of seeing my wife this afternoon," Allen muttered ; and
even the priest, who was endeavoring to look grim and mysteri
ous, was compelled to smile as he remembered how rapidly the
champagne had disappeared but a few minutes before.
" Senor Allen," the holy father said, " I m astonished at your
want of reverence, and I fear that the result will not be very
flattering to your wishes. But form a circle around me, and join
hands while I repeat the words which must be used to cause the
saint to gratify our desires."
We gravely extended our hands, and I had the satisfaction of
once more touching the warm flesh of Donna Teresa ; and as long
as we stood in that position I did not care how many prayers the
priest made, or whether they were ever answered by the gentle
man to whom they were addressed.
" Now, then," said Allen, encouragingly, " fire away, and put
in some strong licks when you tell him to send me a pretty wife,
and a rich one withal, for a man who marries a young and pretty
woman needs the revenue of a gold mine to support her extrava
gance."
The priest frowned the scoffer into silence, and began to
chant,
" The good St. Marco will preserve us and bless us, and grant
all our prayers, for we have travelled many miles for the purpose
of worshipping at his spring "
" He ll know that s a lie," muttered Allen ; " better tell him
the truth, and see how he likes it, instead of fiction."
* You d better leave the circle, and apply your talent to empty
ing the wine bottles," Father Benveuturo said, stopping short in
his incantation, and trying to look solemn ; but the effort was a
failure.
" I would do so willingly," answered Allen ; " but you emptied
the last bottle before you were in a proper condition to chant the
praises of the great St. Marco."
THE VISIONS. 105
" Then remain quiet, or not a drop of wine shall you have
when we visit the convent," was the threat of the. priest.
" All right I m dumb," said Allen ; and thus favored, the
priest recommenced his prayer, and at its conclusion we were re
quested to take long and earnest gazes at the bottom of the spring,
and tell what we saw.
No one .desired to be first ; for although we all looked upon
the matter in the light of a- farce, yet there was a little super
stition in our composition, which prompted us to hesitate when
the real test of the truth of the priest s predictions was to be
verified.
At length Allen broke from the circle, much to my regret, for
I was compelled to relinquish the soft hand of the woman I loved,
and vowed he would have the first look, whether St. Marco *was
willing or not.
He rushed to the well, and for a long time gazed at the clear
water, which was fed by innumerable springs, that hardly dis
turbed the white sand at the bottom ; and while we watched him,
we saw, to our surprise, a wonderful change come over his face,
and at length, with an imprecation, he turned away from the
quiet water, apparently dissatisfied with his vision ; for there was
a frown upon his brow, and more color in his face than I had seen
for many months.
" Did you see anything? " we asked, eagerly ; but Allen forced
a smile, and turned from us without reply.
" Your visions were not pleasant, Seuor Allen," Donna Teresa
said, with all a woman s curiosity to know whether the face he
saw was fair or otherwise.
He muttered something that I could not understand, and walked
back to the spot where the collation was spread, in search of a
glass of wine.
" Guillermo, you will bear me in your mind when you look at
the water?" whispered Donpa Teresa, with a sly touch of her
delicate hand, that thrilled through my body like an electric
shock.
" Do 1 not always think of you? " I answered. " Be assured,
that if constant prayers, and an intense desire to have you ever
near me can induce the saint to favor me with your sweet face, I
shall see that or none."
She seemed satisfied, but I noticed that she watched me with
106 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
eager eyes while I stepped towards the spring, and I thought that
the priest appeared uneasy.
" Drink a pint of the water before you look, or the saint will
think that you are not sincere ! "" cried Benventuro, who seemed
determined that I should go through the most minute form of the
ceremony.
The task was a hard one, for the spring was strongly impreg
nated with sulphur and other substances, and the waters would
have been prono unced mineral by the most impartial critics.
" I suppose, if I had drank the water, I should have had a
vision .of a different character," Allen said, watching the struggle
which I was attempting with considerable interest, and smiling
grimly when he" saw that I had performed my task ; but I don t
recollect of having smiled, for the taste of the water was awful.
After the last drop had been drained from the goblet, a feeling
of supreme happiness took possession of me, and I could only
compare it to the effect of smoking a pipe of opium a feat
which I had been guilty of two or three times during my resi
dence in China, when I gained the heart of a mandarin by accept
ing of his hospitality and strong tea at the same time, not to
mention the various strange compounds of cookery which he had
served up in honor of my visit to his home. I felt as though I
was light enough to fly, and that the earth was too quiet a place
for one with such an excitable temperament as I possessed.
With no feeling of fear, therefore, I looked at the quiet water,
and thought that it represented beautiful visions of gardens
filled with flowers, rich landscapes studded with waving trees,
and then those gave place to pictures of rare art ; and at length I
saw one that pleased me more than the rest, and while I watched
it the scene changed, and before me were the beautiful features
of Donna Teresa, smiling as I had seen her smile but a few mo
ments before, and apparently inviting me to join her. For only
a few seconds did this delightful vision last, and then the picture
vanished, and I saw nothing but the clear water and white sand.
" Well, what luck?" I heard a voice inquire ; and turning, I
saw the priest by my side, with an anxious face.
" Where is Donna Teresa?" I asked, forgetting that she was
not free, and that her husband was near me.
" The saints be praised, he has seen the right face," muttered the
priest ; and then led me a few steps one side, so that the com-
THE ALARM. 107
pany -would not hear my ravings, if I was disposed to indulge
in them.
Don Arturo followed us, and seemed as much interested as his
wife in my explanations.
" Guillermo, tell me what you saw," the old Spaniard said,
laying his hand upon my shoulder in a fatherly manner.
" He has seen nothing but a vision of the blessed St. Marco,
who will damn you forever, unless you donate a hundred ounces
to my convent ! " cried the priest, half in jest and half serious.
" The holy saint I supposed meddled more with hearts than
souls," Don Arturo replied, " and until he makes a personal re
quest, I shall decline the petition."
The Spaniard, fearful of further importuning, retired pre
cipitately to a distant part of the grove, and seemed to meditate
an attack upon the liquors in case he should find any amidst the
wreck.
" Did you see the face of your love in the spring, Guillermo?"
whispered the priest, eagerly.
* I know not the trickery that was resorted to," I replied, " but
I saw the face of Donna Teresa in the water, as plainly as I see
it now."
" Then all is safe," my companion muttered ; and he threw his
arms wildly about his head, as though he was combating a legion
of troublesome hornets.
A sharp report was heard, and turning, I saw a small cloud
of smoke ascending on our left, and at the same instant I heard
the peculiar whiz of a musket bullet as it flew through the air,
carrying, for some distance, Don Arturo s hat in its progress.
The Spaniard, for a second or two, was as much astonished as
myself at the suddenness of the attack ; and while I was unde
cided what to do, the Don threw his arms up, and yelled, to the
extent of his lungs,
" Murder ! assassin ! I m a dead man ! " and down upon the
ground he fell, and rolled over and over, as though in the agony
of death.
" The ladrones ! " shouted the priest, with startling energy.
" Fly for your lives, for the ladrones are upon us."
He set the example, and waddled towards the horses a? fast as
his short, fat legs could carry him, and I must confess fiat I in
tended to follow his example ; but caught sight of the pale,
108 LIFE IK THE EAST INDIES.
terrified face of Donna Teresa, who had fallen upon her knees,
and was praying to the saints with all the volubility of a Spanish
worn-an, sometimes confounding my name with that of her hus
band ; and I am inclined to think that the saints were requested
tD preserve, me at every risk, and her husband if convenient.
I had just caught her in my arms, and was about to bear her
to the palfrey, when Allen called upon me to stop.
" The ladrones be cursed ! " he shouted ; " I don t care for a
dozeu of them ! They will take care to keep beyond the range
of our rifles.. Come with me and help explore the woods, and
find the assassin. The priest and the servants will care for the
Spaniard."
u No, no ! " thundered the priest ; " save your lives at every
cost, for the woods are filled with ladrones. I have seen a dozeu
of them already. The only safety is to remain with me and claim
the protection of the holy church. Mount the horses and reach
the banco without delay."
I must confess that I was staggered by this appeal, and that
I hardly knew whether to run or to remain ; but Allen reas
sured me.
u Drop the woman," he said in English, in his usual blunt
manner, " and lend me a hand to find out the assassin, or I will
go alone. Making love is all very well sometimes, but it is out
of place here, as you ought to know."
Thus rebuked, I seated the lady upon the ground, and, in spite
of her remonstrances, was about to hasten to Allen, when tho
priest interfered.
" You are mad ! " he exclaimed. " There is no occasion for
your interference here, and I tell you distinctly that I wish you
and Doiina Teresa to escape without a moment s delay. I will
join you at the banco. Do not trouble yourself about anything
that has taken place."
" But you would not leave her husband here, mortally wound
ed would you?" I- asked, in astonishment.
" Even if he dies you have no cause for regret," the priest
muttered, sarcastically.
I stopped to hear no more. I turned from the lady in spite of
her tears, and in a few moments was by the side of Allen, who
was examining his rifle.
" Ah, I thought you would not desert your old friend at this
THE WOUNDED MAN. 109
time," he remarked, " although, to be sure, there is but littlo to
fear ; for I suppose the assassin aimed at Don Arturo, and meant
to have picked him off if possible."
" At any rate lie has succeeded in his object/ I replied.
" Bah ! In spite of all that kicking, the Spaniard is not injured
in the least, except by fear, although I pledge you my word that
the ball was well aimed, for his head was missed by an inch or
two only. Did you ever know a wounded man to make so much
noise, or did you ever know me to remain inactive when suffer
ing could be alleviated? "
As I couldn t call any such case to mind, I wisely held my
tongue, and went towards the still prostrate Spaniard for the pur
pose of satisfying myself that he was uninjured.
" Come, Don Arturo, you have made noise enough, and have
showed that you care but little for bullets or ladrones. Get up,
and take care of your wife until we return."
Allen seconded the appeal with a slight punch in the prostrate
man s ribs which caused him to howl with renewed agony ; but in
spite of his protestations that he could never survive his wounds,
and that he should die blessing and forgiving his enemies, we
lifted him to his feet, and his astonishment at finding that he
could stand without assistance was great.
u I bleed somewhere internally," he muttered, looking at his
limbs and then rubbing his head.
" Not a bleed," returned Allen ; " you are as well as ever, and
could lick a dozen, ladroues, if they would only give you a fair
chance. Come, go to your wife, who is half distracted at your
supposed injuries, and requires the constant prayers of the priest
to prevent her having fits. We are going in search of the man
who attempted your life."
" Had I better go?" timidly inquired the Don.
" Not with us," promptly responded Allen. " Your wife needs
.you more than we."
The Spaniard was only too happy to escape the duty, and while
we started towards the spot from whence the shot Avas fired, the
Don hastened in an opposite direction ; and when I glanced
towards the priest and wife to watch the meeting, I thought that
neither was overpowered with joy to find that the aged gentleman
was more frightened than hurt.
We reached the thicket from whence the shot had been fired
110 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
at the Spaniard ; we saw the tracks of a Mestizo s shoes, and found
the very limb upon which the fellow had rested his gun while
he took aim, which no doubt he intended should be a fatal one.
" It is useless for us to proceed farther," Allen said, after a
a careful examination of the footsteps. " We should not be able
to overtake the fellow, and even if we did, we should hardly dare
to execute the law of retaliation upon him, for we could prove
nothing, but should excite the utmost indignation of the priest
hood."
"Why so?"
" Because the fellow is connected with the convent of San Pe
dro ; and think you that Father Benventuro would suffer any harm
to happen to his man of all work, his tool and confidant, his
friend and companion the supple Antonio? "
" How do you know that the person who fired the gun is An
tonio?" I asked.
" For two very good reasons. First, I noticed that the left
shoe which he wore had a peculiar formed patch, and you observe
in the clay that there is a fair impression of the shoe, patch and
all. Second, I saw the fellow leave our select society just after
you had made a fool of yourself by looking in the spring, in the
hope of peeing your future wife."
"Thank you," I replied. "I believe that I am not far from
another fool who was guilty of the same folly."
Allen looked confused for a moment, and then laughed ; but I
thought, he was rather forcing the matter. %
"Well, to tell the truth," he said, " there is something won
derful in that confounded spring ; and whether the sights that can
be seen there are the effects of over doses of champagne, or some
trick of that priest, I don t pretend to say ; but I will admit that
I saw something that resembled a face in the water, but what
kind of a face it was I don t know."
" Why do you suppose the priest cared what we saw or what
we did not ? " I asked.
" The holy father is a Jesuit, and may have some aim in view.
Things that we would pass without notice he would study over
and investigate. By some confounded mechanical trickery, or by
a potent drug, mixed with the water which he proposed we should
drink before testing the efficacy of the spring, a strong control
may have been exerted over us, and we imagined that we saw
AN EXPLANATION. Ill
things which had no reality. All is a, mystery to me so far ; but
I shall take an early opportunity of getting the holy father drunk,
and then learning his secrets."
"A good plan," I replied, dryly, "if it can be carried into
effect, of which I have some doubt, for I have felt of his head,
and it is like a cannon ball."
" I own that the task would be a frightful one, and that I should
have to resort to some of his priestly tricks to accomplish the job ;
but that it can be done I have no doubt. But after all, we have
no cause to be at enmity with the holy man, for I know that he
would do much to assist either you or me, and I am certain that
I have heard him speak of you in grateful terms."
It was my turn to blush, and I. managed to do so after an
effort.
" Then it is useless for us to remain here, I suppose," I said,
after a few moments pause. " If Antonio is the man who fired
the gun, he is miles from us by this time, and pursuit would be
useless. Besides, he might have discharged the piece accident
ally."
Allen shook his head.
" There was too much powder in the gun," he said, " or Don
Arturo would not now be in the laud of the living."
" How do you know that?" I asked.
"You observe that the gun was rested on the limb of this
tree, and that it must have kicked badly, or it would not have
scraped the bark of the limb, and even knocked Antonio back
wards three or four feet, as you can see by his steps. Depend
upon it, too great a charge of powder saved the Spaniard s life,
and he should be thankful to his saints for the accident."
" But what ill feeling can Antonio have treasured against the
Bon?" I asked.
" Who knows? " Allen answered, with the energetic shrug of
a Spaniard. " The Don may have excited his passions and en
mity by a word or look he may have refused to lend him a dol
lar some time to bet on a cock-fight ; he may have declined to
drink a glass of wine with him, or to give him one ; or may have
charged him too much for a bale of cigars for the convent, so that
he could not make a certain percentage. Either one of these
Cannes would be sufficient to make him thirst for revenue, and he
O "
will not rest entirely satisfied until he has accomplished it. We
112 LIFE IN *HE EAST INDIES.
must talk to Benventuro in regard to the matter, and have thisr
difficulty removed."
I thought the affair a most singular one, but I preferred to keep
my thoughts to myself, instead of intrusting them with Allen, for
I feared that, with his usual independence, he would refer to me
as having spoken words which I did not care the priest should find
fault with. The more I pondered on the shooting affair, the
more mystified I became ; and even when we debouched from the
bushes, and saw that the holy father, entirely recovered from his
alarm respecting ladrones, was seated near the Don and his wife,
quietly smoking a cigar, I had no suspicions that he was the origi
nator of the plot, and that it was through his orders that Antonio
had acted as he had done.
" Did you find the base assassin ? " asked the priest, as we ap
proached ; but he spoke as though he knew we had not.
" We did not overtake him, but we know the man, and shall
mark him hereafter," Atlen replied, carelessly.
" Ah, who dared to attempt murder almost within sight of the
convent walls ? Give me a description of the man, that I may
punish him without delay," father Benventuro exclaimed, with
every appearance of passion.
" Well, as near as I can calculate," Allen said, with Yankee
emphasis and drawl, " the scamp is Antonio, your servant."
The priest was too well drilled to manifest surprise, and not a
particle of emotion was visible on his fat face as he heard the
name.
u Did you stop to take a drink of the spring water as you came
a!ong? " the priest asked, with a loud laugh.
44 No. Why?"
" Because I didn t believe that any man in his sober senses
would make such a charge against one of the most faithful ser
vants that priest was ever blessed with. An hour since I sent
him to the convent to make preparations for your visit there. It
is time he should return ; and faith, here he comes ; " and as the
holy father ceased speaking, the fellow approached us, his brow
covered with perspiration, and his face flushed with running.
" Have you been to the convent? " the priest asked, even with
out looking at hin5.
"Yes, sir," was the prompt .answer.
" Are they making preparations for our arrival?"
SLEEPING AT THE CONVENT. 113
<S .I gava your orders and then hurried back, sir."
You have done well," the holy father replied ; and then after
a moment s pause he continued : " Our esteemed friend, Don Ar-
turo, has been fired at by some lurking ladroue. Do you know
Anything of the circumstance?" *
" Nothing, holy father."
The fellow was as cool and self-possessed as the most inveter
ate liar could desire, and he told his story so calmly that even I
began to doubt whether Allen had not made a mistake.
" Let us no longer talk upon such a disagreeble topic," the
Spaniard exclaimed, speaking for the first time. " See, my wife
is all agitation, because she feared that I was fatally injured when
1 was simply knocked down by the mere proximity of the ball to
my head. It was a narrow escape, bift nothing, after all, com
pared to a soldier s danger. However, If you have no objections,
I should prefer to leave this spot without delay, as a second shot
might be better aimed." , ^
The priest readily complied with the request, and in a few min
utes we were mounted on our horses, and on our way towards the
convent, whose towers we could just get a glimpse of, as we left
the vicinity of the spring, and wound our way by the bridle path
towards the river.
" What say you to supping at the convent, and sleeping there
to-night?" the priest aslied.
u On one condition I ll consent to that," Allen replied.
" You may make as many conditions as you please. Name
the first one."
" That but one bottle of wine shall be drank by each of your
guests, and that we be allowed to retire at an early hour."
" Is that all ? " cried the holy father, with a hoarse chuckle ;
"by the saints, I thought you were intending to stipulate for a
dozen bottles per man, and a tipple until daylight. I acce^f! the
first offer with gratitude, for my wine cellar is not overstocked at
the present time. Make your Own terms, senors, for I shall do
the same when I visit you."
The conditions were duly accepted, much to my delight, for I
had no desire to pass a second night in a drinking bout ; and I
thought, from the glance which I received from the dark eyes of
Donna Teresa, that she approved of our course in that respect ;
for although much more wine is drank in Manila thau water, and
8
114 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
to be slightly exhilarated is considered no disgrace, yet I found
that Spanish ladies, as a general thing, preferred the society of
men of temperate habits to those of intemperate, and were rather
sorrowful than otherwise when their loving spouses were brought
home in hackney coaches, or on the shoulders of a cargadora.
None of us were very lively on our way to the convent, for the
attempted assassination of Don Arturo, although not of common,
occurrence, was far from being an uncommon one, so we did not
look upon the matter in that amicable light in which East In
dians were accustomed to regard such things.
" Guillermo," said the Spaniard, " there must be deer in these
woods, and it is a pity that hunters like us should remain idle,
when our friends suffer for the want of venison. We must hunt,
and why not to-morrow?"
" Ay," echoed the priest, " why not to-morrow?"
There was something in the man s ^voice that attracted my at
tention, and made me think that more was meant than appeared
upon the surface ; yet the holy man s face was calm, and his eyes
sincere.
" We can start from the convent at an early hour, first sending
for the dogs," the Don continued.
" An admirable plan," the priest replied, " and one that I should
recommend. At what hour do ydu propose to start? "
I thought that I detected the slightest possible sneer on the part
of the questioner, and yet I might have been mistaken.
" At any hour that suits your convenience, holy father," the
Spaniard replied, with meek humility.
" Then we will settle the preliminaries to-night ; " and without
another word on the subject, we rode on until the walls of the
convent were gained, and the heavy gates were opened to ad
mit us.
We filed in, more like a funeral procession than a gay party who
had returned from a pleasant picnic ; and when the gates closed
with a crash, it seemed to me as though we were cut off from the
outer world for life. The cheeks of Donna Teresa were blanched,
and I read her thoughts well enough to know that she was far
from feeling pleased with her visit or her quarters. Allen was
the only one who seemed indifferent, or treated the priest with the
same independence inside of the walls he showed outside ; and I
PRISONERS. 115
accounted for it on the ground that he had visited the convent
often, and felt more at home than the rest of us.
" Had we better remain all night, as we contemplated?" asked
the Don, nervously, not relishing the prison-like aspect of the
place.
" Remain here?" repeated the priest, who had overheard the
question ; " of course you will, for no one departs from these
walls to-night without my permission. You are my guests, and
I have too few not to appreciate my friends, when I once get hold
of them. Ho, Pedro ! " the holy man shouted to the porter ; " let
DO one out without my consent."
The dark, sinister-looking porter nodded his head in token of
assent, and forthwith locked the gates and deposited the key in
his pocket.
" We seem more like prisoners than friends," whispered the
Spaniard in my ear, watching his chance when the priest was not
observing him. " I hope you don t feel concerned, because I
don t ; but I will tell you, truly, I had much rather be at home,
and surrounded by my servants."
The poor man confessed his alarm, even while endeavoring to
convince me that he was unconcerned.
I did not reply, but I could not help thinking that there was
much design in what the priest was doing, aad that perhaps it
would have been better if we had not accepted his invitation.
" Here, Antonio ! " shouted Benventuro ; " show the lady and
gentlemen to the reception-room, and then come to my study."
The servant led us through a narrow passage-way, and then up
a flight of steps, at the end of which we found the room indi
cated. The floor was polished with wax, and contained a few
easy-chairs made of bamboo, a few coarse .engravings of saints
and sinners, a portrait of the Archbishop of Manila, and another
of the Governor General. The view from the windows of the
apartment was splendid, however, and made us for a time forget
Our unpleasant feelings.
The room was high enough from the ground to overlook the
walls, and we could see the River Pasig winding through rich
valleys of rice and sugar-cane, while on our left were the high
mountains, "which, tradition has reported, contain rich gold mines
and precious stones ; yet Spaniards nor Mestizos dare venture to
the minos, for fear of the natives who inhabit the region, and
116 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
j*
who, to this late day, have not acknowledged the sway of Spain ,
and, strange to say, every expedition that has been directed against
them has failed, until the Spaniards have lost heart, and let the
savages remain in peaceable possession of their lands.
* You look melancholy, Teresa," I said, as we stood at a win
dow, gazing at~the landscape.
" My looks then reflect my thoughts ; for, Guillermo, I feel
rery sad, and it seems as though some great misfortune was about
to happen to me. Were I alone, I should offer up my prayers
to the Virgin to keep me from harm, and protect all those I
love."
" Pray here, Teresa, for ytmr prayer will be answered as readi
ly as though alone and before the image of the Virgin."
She shook her head, and seemed incredulous and somewhat
shocked that I should advance such an opinion. I knew her su
perstitious nature too well to continue the conversation.
" I wonder if the priest will let us look at the lady inmates of
his convent?" Teresa asked after a moment s pause.
" He will answer for himself, for here he is," I replied, as the
holy father entered the room, looking as smiling and pleased as
though ttie high office to which he aspired was already in his
grasp.
" The lady was just asking if you permitted visitors to speak
with the nuns," I said, turning to Benventuro.
u Were she less beautiful I should willingly comply with her
request, but if those under my spiritual charge should once see
her face, there would no longer be. that peace and happiness in
the flock which now prevails. Envy would take the place of hu
mility ; and there is enough of that without the walls of the con
vent."
Donna Teresa turned away, hardly pleased with the compli
ment, yet not knowing how to resent it.
" Gentlemen, I suppose, receive the same answer," I said.
"No, not the same; because the nuns study mischief enough
already, without having additional temptations thrust before them,
which would naturally tend to make them unhappy and discon
tented. Let the nuns converse with a good-looking man three or
four times, and there would be a revolt within these walls which
low diet and sleepless nights alone could suppress. For these
DINNER AT THE CONVENT. 117
reasons, my friends, I don t think that it is safe for you to visit
my chickens."
Father- Benventuro was perfectly good-natured while thus ex
plaining why visitors were not permitted to converse with his
great family ; so I asked him why the ladies were not affected by
his presence.
" M-3 ? " he said, with a shrug of his shoulders. " O, 1 am
looked upon in the .light of a father, and no one would think of
making love to me/*
u Perhaps that is the only position in which they can look upon
you," Allen said, in his usual blunt way.
The lady colored and looked from the window, while her hus
band was too much under the influence of fear to notice the joke,
and therefore did not understand the meaning of Allen s laughter,
loud and hearty as it was.
The priest attempted to look displeased, but when he found
that it was thrown away upon my friend, his broad face relaxed,
and he suffered a smile to mantle his features.
" No jokes with the clergy, amigo, on so serious a subject, and
especially in the presence of a lady."
" Dinner is on the table, senor," cried Antonio, throwing open
a door which I had not noticed, and revealing a large, well-
furnished room, and a table covered with delicacies ; and we were
hungry enough not to be displeased with the sight.
CHAPTER V.
A NIGHT IN THE CONVENT. A StJDDEN DEATH. SURPRISE
AND CONSTERNATION. FATHER JUAN. SUSPICIONS, AND
WHAT THEY AMOUNTED TO.
. " GUILLERMO, give your arm to Donna Teresa. Don Arturo,
I wish you to sit by my side and temper me in my temporal wants
by your grave demeanor. Senor Allen, you will lend me all the
assistance in your power in talking and making the dinner party
a success. And mind that you do not let the bottles rest when
they reach you. I have but a poor dinner to-day, for I fear that
118 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
my cook has lost his skill, or is growing neglectful of fiis pro
fession."
There was no occasion for the priest to apologize, for there
was an abundance on the table, not only of luxuries, but of the
substantial things of this life ; and rarely had I seen cookery
carried ^to such a state of perfection as witnessed on that day.
Roabt, baked, and boiled followed in rapid succession, and as the
wine circulated, the holy father threw off all restraint, and charmed
his guests with wit and humor.
But this time we were not permitted to drink to repletion, for
the holy father, as though anxious to improve in the estimation
of Donna Teresa and her husband, gave the signal to rise from
the table just at dusk, and soon after the candles were lighted, in
heavy sticks of silver, of old Spanish style, that would have
charmed the heart of an antiquarian.
We found coffee awaiting us in the drawing-room, and while
we sipped the fragrant beverage, the priest chatted on politics and
pleasure, arts and the drama, and was familiar with every topic
that he broached, and could talk most interestingly upon themes
we were unacquainted with.
The evening glided off rapidly, and by nine we all expressed
surprise, and thought that the hour could not be later than
eight.
" I don t wish to hurry you to your couches, my friends," the
priest said, " but my servants are drilled to exact, hours, and in
fifteen minutes will retire to their blankets. Remember that they
have to be stirring long before daylight."
" I suppose that is a hint for us to retire," Allen said ; " but it
seems to me that you have altered your rules since the time I
drank glass for glass with you, and conquered."
The priest did not choose to hear, for some reason or other, and
left the room for a few moments. v
" Guillermo," cried the Spaniard, " I seem lonely in this huge
building, and know not why I feel reluctant to retire. I would
give an ounce of gold if I was in my house in Manila."
44 Morning will soon come," I replied, " and by sunrise we can
be on our way to the factory, where a warm welcome will be ex
tended to us. There is no reason, as I see, why you should feel
thus melancholy."
" Do you think, Guillermo, that you could persuade the priest
JUST BEFORE RETIRING. 119
to let us return tonight? I should- feel so much better at Santa
Mesa, and so would my wife."
44 We are not prisoners," I said, " but gtfests, and the holy
father would think but poorly of us if we slighted his hospitality
by leaving him as soon as we had concluded dinner. Believe
me, I would do all that I could for you, but I dare not offend
Benventuro with such a request."
""Then you will sleep near me I want you to promise that,"
the Spaniard said, hurriedly ; but before I could accede to his
extraordinary proposition the priest returned, looking as smiling
and amiable as a host should look when he has company that
pleases him.
44 Before we separate for the night, let us drink one glass of
wine to the honor of Spain and its fair women," Benventuro said ;
and we could not refuse compliance, for at that time there was
much ill feeling against Americans on the part of Spaniards, OD
account of filibustering talk in regard to Cuba.
44 1 have some rare wine, gentlemen, which was sent me by a
friend in Spain, and I desire your judgment before retiring. An
tonio, bring the wine here."
We had no objections to test the liquor which the priest so ex
tolled, but it struck me as somewhat singular that we had not seen
it upon the dinner table.
The priest clapped his hands, and Antonio and a servant, wh<?
looked equally as dark and suspicious as the former, entered thf
room, bearing salvers of solid silver, together with cut glasses
and a bottle of singular shape, covered with cobwebs.
44 Serve the guests, Antonio," was the brief command ; yet
brief as it was, I thought that I detected a tremor in the priest s
voice that was unusual.
I looked at him, but he encountered my gaze without flinch
ing ; and when the servants served me, I took the glass of v/ine
from Antonio s hand without a suspicion that foul play was in
tended.
44 Honor to Spain and its fair women," cried the priest, when
he saw that we awaited his toast.
We repeated the sentiment, and the glasses w r ere emptied. The
wine was really excellent, and even Don Arturo commended it,
and smacked his thin lips as though he would have no objection
to another sip. But he was denied the pleasure, for the servants
120 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
left the room, but immediately returned with candles, and awaited
to conduct us to our apartments.
" Your rooms are near, gentlemen ; a sweet night s sleep,
and may the saints have you in their keeping. We breakfast at
ten, you know ; " and with these words the holy father escorted
us to the door, and bade us good night.
A glance, quick as lightning, was exchanged, between the priest
and Antonio, and I wondered what it meant ; but there wa s no
time to ask questions, and I had no desire to excite alarm in the
breasts of Don Arturo and his lady, by communicating suspicions,
which, after all, might be groundless.
We passed up the broad staircase, the steps of which were
waxed and polished like marble ; and near the head of the stairs,
on a broad corridor, were our rooms, to which our obsequious
but grim attendants pointed, and held high* the, candles, while
Allen and myself entered the apartment allotted to us.
Directly opposite our room was the one which Don Arturo
and his wife occupied, and as we bade them good night and dis
missed our attendants, I thought that the face of the old Spaniard
looked ghastly in the flickering light, as though he had a presenti
ment that something terrible was to happen.
" We must be stirring early, Guillermo," he said, " for we
must not miss the hunt on the morrow."
He spoke like a person who hoped that no great misfortune was
to happen, yet hoped against conviction.
We found a cocoa-nut oil lamp burning in our room, with suf
ficient oil to last all night ; for the priest wisely calculated that
candles were too expensive for more than show, and that guests
could sleep as well with one as the other.
I sat down upon one of the hard beds, which consisted of a
blanket spread over a Hide tacked to rude pieces of timber hewn
from a tree by some native carpenter, and lighting a cigar,
began to ruminate upon the events of the day. Allen follo\ved
my example, and for a few minutes we smoked our w.eeds in
silence.
" What are you thinking of? " he asked, after a while.
" I am thinking that if ever I ge t back to Santa Mesa, I will
never exchange its comfortable quarters for the rooms of a con
vent," I said.
44 Hush ! " he replied ; " even walls sometimes have ears, and 1
OUR SUSPICIONS. 121
would not have the priest cherish a prejudice against me for a small
stock of ready money."
He lowered his voice to a whisper, and continued,
" I don t like the appearance of affairs here, and have not all
the afternoon ; but I have acted a part, and imposed upon the
priest the idea that I was content. I have stopped here over night
on several occasions, but never saw the ceremony that has been
used this evening, which leads me to suspect that something is
about to happen."
u Have you any idea what that something is?" I asked.
" Not the remotest ; but I tell you I shall not sleep to-night,
or, if I do, it will be only for a moment," Allen said.
" Do you suspect that any attempt is to be made upon our
lives? " I asked.
" No, no ; we are safe enough ; never fear ; for the priest likes
us- too well to think of ill-treating us. Besides, I carry a revolver
in my pocket, and Benventuro and his servants know it, and they
would rather face the devil than a six-shooter. We are not the
ones mischief is aimed at ; that you may be assured of."
He nodded his head in the direction of the opposite room, and
I found that his suspicious coincided with my own.
" If Don Arturo is a live man in the morning, he may well
return his thanks to the saints, for they will have had him in
their keeping. The priest has an enmity against the old man,
and he is Jesuit enough to strike deep when he does strike. In
what manner Don Arturo has offended, I don t know ; but his
death is resolved upon, for I could see it in Antonio s eyes when
he lighted us to our rooms. The shot to-day was intended as a
finisher, but the fellow put in too much powder and missed, for
which I warrant you he got a comfortable damning."
" Can we do nothing to save him? " I asked.
"What can we do? We are only suspecting foul play, and
haye no proof that it is intended. If we should make a noise,
and kick up a fuss generally, the holy father would find means to
repay us some way before we were many days older. The best
that we can dr is to watch and listen, and for this purpose I shall
keep awake all night."
I agreed to do the same ; and extinguishing the light, we smoked
our cigars in silence, having taken the precaution to open the
door of our room, so that we could hear if any one stirred in the
122 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
<,
corridor during the night. For three or four hours we continued
to consume cigars until our stock ran low, and then, for the want
of something to do, and to rest my tired form, I lay down, think
ing that under no circumstances I should drop to sleep ; but, like
all who make the same resolve, I forgot my resolution and slept
soundly ; how long I didn t know, for I was awakened by feeling
a hand upon my shoulder ; and as I started up I heard Allen
whisper,
" Don t make the least noise, or you will spoil all there s some
one in the corridor."
I was wide awake enough then, and listening with all my
power ; and while I did so I could hear some person moving in
the corridor with stealthy steps, as though fearful of attracting
attention.
" What shall we do?" I whispered, in so low a tone that the
sounds were almost inaudible.
" We can do nothing but watch ; but if violence is attempted
we can act our part like men."
We slipped off our shoes and crawled on our hands and knees
to the door, and then entered on the corridor, where we waited
for a long time before we again heard the cat-like tread of some
person, who seemed to have just ascended the broad stairs, and
was listening for a repetition of a slight noise that we made.
We remained as quiet as mice, close to the wall, and by the
light of a window, at the end of the corridor, we could see two
forms, stealing along, treading so softly that not even a board
creaked. When they got opposite to our room they stopped, ap
parently surprised at finding the door open, and I could hear them
whisper to each other as though asking what it meant. They
seemed to be satisfied that we were sleeping soundly, however,
for in a moment they passed to the door of Don Arturo s room,
and listened attentively.
" I can hear her breathe well enough, but the old man is silent,"
I heard Antonio whisper to his companion.
" Hush ! " was the reply of the other person ; " don t talk about
what you can hear so near to the American s room, or we shall
get a shot from their pistols, and they fire very close, as I know
for a certainty. If they suspected we were up to any trick, it s
very short our lives would be."
" I think that the old man has gone to a better world, but I m
IN THE MOUSING. 123
not sure of it. Had we not better open the door and go in, and be
certain about the thing ? "
" And wake the lady up, and have her screaming for half an
hour, and those American diablos grasping our throats? No,
no ; that would not do."
44 But we have our knives," Antonio s companion said.
" And if we dared to use them upon the holy father s friends,
we should be cursed forever. He has a strange, love for both
men, although they are heretics. Come, let us return and report
that all has gone as expected."
They crept to the staircase and disappeared, and just at that
moment we heard the nuns, at the other end of the convent,
chanting an early mass ; and as their voices blended, and the
harmony arose, it sounded melancholy enough to be a requiem
for the dead. We listened until the chant ceased, and then
stole noiselessly to our room, closed the door, and waited for day
light. We did not have to wait long, for the murky gloom was
gradually dispelled by the bright glow in the east ; but long before
the sun rose, the singing of the birds and the shrill call of the
parrots, as they flew from tree to tree in the garden, had tempted
us to the window, upon which we leaned, delighted with the cool,
fresh atmosphere, and wondered why we were usually sluggards
enough to prefer spending the best portion of the day in bed, in
stead of rising and gaining health and appetite, by inhaling the
fragrance of the morning air.
" It is time that Donna Teresa was stirring," I remarked, listen
ing for the sound of her footsteps.
u Always thinking of her," Allen said, lighting a cigar, the last
that he possessed.
" Not always," I replied, in a tone that contradicted my
denial.
44 Answer me a question," my friend said, laying his hand upon
my shoulder ; 44 do you really think that you could live happily
with Donna Teresa, even if you should marry her upon the de
cease of her husband? Spanish women are not like American or
English women. They wither at the age of twenty-five, and that
clear, fresh skin, which you now admire so much, will become
rough and full of furrows ; the bright eyes will become dim, and
the plump form lank and bony; her white teeth will decay,
and"
124 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" For mercy sake, forbear ! " I cried, appalled at the picture
that he was drawing, and yet, lover-like, believing that Donna
Teresa would form an exception to the generality of woman
kind.
" "Well, as you are my friend, I won t be too hard on you ; but
you must think of these things, or "
He was interrupted by a shrill scream, which proceeded from
Don Arturo s chamber. I knew the voice, and it stirred my blood
like the sound of a trumpet.
" Donna Teresa is in distress ! " I cried, starting for Ihe door.
" Nonsense," replied Allen ; " she is only scolding her husband.
If she was in distress she would hang out a signal."
Almost before he had completed the words, there was another
shriek, louder and more shrill than the first. I broke away from
Allen, and rushed across the corridor.
"Blast it, man, you ain t going into her room are you?"
Allen cried, stopping me before I reached the door.
" To be sure I am," I replied, struggling to get away.
" But she may not be dressed. Ask her first. Have a little
delicacy in the matter."
" Don t talk of delicacy, when she is in danger," I replied,
breaking away from him.
" Well, if you are satisfied, I suppose I must be," I heard
Allen say, but I did not stop to reply.
I tried the door of her room, and found that it was fastened.
I knocked, but no attention was paid to me. I called Donna
Teresa by her name, but received no reply.
u Curse it, man, she was only dreaming. Come away, and let
her sleep," Allen muttered.
I made no reply, but I put my shoulder to the door and pressed
hard, and the bolt yielded. I rushed into the room, and saw
Donna Teresa, partly dressed, bending over her husband, and
sobbing bitterly.
44 For Heaven s sake, what has happened ? " I demanded ; and
two or three times I repeated the question before the lady an
swered.
" Ah, Gnillermo," she cried, raising her head, with her long
black hair hanging over her shoulders, " the saints must protect
me now."
THE DEATH OF DON ARTURO. Page 125.
THE DISCOVERT. 125
"What is the meaning of your cries?" I asked, tearing the
mosquito bars aside which covered the bed.
She covered her face with one hand, and pointed to her hus
band with the other.
I started back when I saw the face of my old friend, stern, cold,
and ten shades whiter than usual.
" fee is sick," I said, taking his hand, and finding it cold
as ice.
" lie is dead," she replied ; and a fresh torrent of tears burst
from her eyes, and stole through her closed hands, which covered
her face.
" Dead ! " I repeated ; and Allen echoed the cry.
u Alas ! I know not how long he has been dead ; but a few
minutes since I awoke, and spoke to him, and received no answer ;
and when I looked at his face, I saw that the saints had him in
their keeping. O, Guillermo, I now have but you ! "
She threw her arms around my neck, and buried her head on
my bosom, and for a moment I held her, and tried to soothe her
anguish ; but I was too horrified to offer much consolation, or to
speak. But Allen recovered his senses, and spoke some words
of advice, which aroused me.
" We must send for a physician without delay perhaps the
Don is suffering from the effects of a fit ; or, if he is really
dead, we must know what has killed him. Let us see Father
Benventuro, and while we are absent let the lady dress her
self."
Even Donna Teresa, much as she grieved, saw the force of
Allen s reasoning and advice, and proceeded to array herself in
the garments which she had worn the preceding day ; but when
I offered to vacate the room, she begged of me, in piteous tones,
not to leave her with the dead, but to remain and console her ;
and as there was no impropriety in so doing, I consented. The
reader must not suppose that the lady s mcxlesty was rot
very acute, by her allowing two men to enter and remain in her
chamber while she was dressing : but you will please to re
member that there are different customs in different places, and
that a Spanish girl, confident of her own purity, can look with
an eye of unconcern upon the half-nude form of a man, as he
staggers through the streets, bearing a heavy burden, as most of
the cargadors, anxious to save their clothing, do, and that, in all
126 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
warm climates, the ladies consider it not indelicate, or out k of
place, to wear as little clothing as possible, while the children,
until five or six years of age, dispense with dress, much to their
gratification, and roll about the floor, and between the legs of
visitors, without the least embarrassment. Washerwomen, with
but a single garment upon their brown bodies, stand deep in the
water on the river s banks, and beat their clothes over a rock or
log, and shout a joyous melange of blackguardism and fun ; and
yet some would resent it as an insult, if familiarities were offered.
A Spanish maiden, even if surrounded with wealth, cannot escape
the prevailing custom ; and hence she grows up, and is taught that
modesty does not consist in thinking of evil, and blushing at her
thoughts.
While Teresa was dressing herself as well as she could under
her agitation, I turned my attention to the Spaniard, and after
a brief examination was satisfied that vitality had fled, probably
some hours before his wife had made the discovery. I can hardly
tell what my thoughts were while I gazed at the dead, and recol
lected all the kindness which I had received at his hands. His
faults were forgotten, his petty jealousy and braggadocio were
banished from my mind ; and if I could have restored him to life,
I should have done so, despite my love for his beautiful widow.
Even while gazing at the closed eyes and swarthy face, I thought
of the compact which I had made with the priest hardly twenty-
four hours before ; and I asked myself, Could he have had a hand
in producing the Don s death for the sake of obtaining the im
portant position which he had determined to reach in spite of
obstacles? I knew the man too well to think that it would be of
any use to charge him with murder, or to accuse him of violating
the contract, and I also knew the man well enough to know that
if I did not carry out the whole programme which he had promised
I should carry out, that his creatures would be only too happy to
snuff out a heretic, and that no official investigation would ever
reveal the cause of my death. These were some of the thoughts
which passed through my brain, and I asked myself whether it
would be better for me to brave his fury, and leave the woman
I loved, or to attempt to marry and fly from the island without
delay. There were many reasons why the latter course would
have been impracticable ; and had I attempted to escape, the
whole of the lady s fortune would have been confiscated by the
FATHER JUAN. 127
crown, or eaten up by greedy lawyers. This was something I
had 110 desire to see realized, because I knew that Teresa had
been accustomed to more of the luxuries of life than my funds
would permit, without a succession of fortunate mercantile specu
lations, which our firm were too cautious to enter upon. While I
ruminated I felt a hand laid upon my shoulder, and turning saw
the tearful eyes of Teresa.
u He spoke of you, Guillermo, last night, after we had retired,
and he said that he loved you as a son. Your name was the last
one that he pronounced."
I dried her tears and led her from the chamber, and on our way
to the reception-room met the priest, his countenance well made
up for the occasion.
" May the saints preserve us and have us in their keeping ! " he
exclaimed, placing his fat hand upon the glossy hair of the lady s
head ; ** but this instant have I heard that my friend died with
disease of the heart during the night. I am so shocked that I
have no words to convey to you my anguish. Courage, my poor
child, for though you are now alone in the world, I ll be a father
to you. I have already sent for a physician from Manila, and
when he arrives, I wish a thorough examination made as to the
cause of his death. I want no suspicion to rest upon the fair
fame of my convent."
" Why do you think suspicion will rest on it? " I asked.
" Because the world is full of vice and slander ; and why should
I escape more than others? " he answered, with a face so full of
frankness that Donna Teresa gave him her hand, and received a
blessing in return for her confidence.
" Here comes Father Juan ! " cried Allen, from the bottom of
the stairs.
For a moment the priest started, and was inclined to mutter an
oath ; but he recollected himself, and his face assumed a graveness
worthy of the occasion, as he advanced to meet his crafty rival.
At the sound of Father Juan s name, Donna Teresa clung more
closely to me, as though desirous of protection from the wiles of
this son of the church.
" Ah, Guillermo," she said, " I fear to meet that man, for my
heart tells me he has come for no good, and that he will endeavor
to separate us. Let me avoid him, for his looks are evil."
" You must meet him, Teresa ; but be firm, and refuse all his
128 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
offers of assistance, and his machinations will fail. On you will
depend our future happiness, and to you I intrust it, with confi
dence that you will suffer no trifling cause to interfere with our
welfare. Meet him boldly, and receive him as a friend."
She pressed my hand in token of assent, and we reached the
reception-room just as the door was thrown open to admit Father
Juan, whose thin face, keen, restless eyes, spare body, and precise
dress, was in striking contrast with the fat, comfortable-looking
form of Father Benventuro, who thought more of a good bottle of
wine and a good dinner than he did of his outward appearance.
" The saints have all here in their keeping," was the excla
mation of the thin priest, as he stood upon the threshold and
waved the sign of the cross with his finger, while his glittering
eyes took in the whole party present at a glance.
" May the saints give long life and much happiness to Father
Juan, who has deigned to honor my poor place with Jiis presence.
A thousand thanks for this visit, and may you relish it so well
that hereafter I shall gladden my eyes with a sight of your face
once a week."
Father Juan bowed low to the compliments of his brother
priest, and looked so grave and sedate that I should have sup
posed he believed what he heard, had not I seen by the twinkle of
his eyes that he did not.
" I am sorry to intrude upon your party, and should not have
done so had I not heard some strange news this morning as I was
about to land at Santa Mesa, in search of my pupil, my friend,
my companion, Don Arturo, whose long absence from his house
had rendered me somewhat anxious, although I did not doubt that
he was in good company."
" Truer friends a Spaniard never possessed," cried the holy
Benventuro, apparently as candid and honest as man could be.
" But what strange rumor is this I heard at Santa Mesa? I was
t:>ld by some servants of the convent, that Don Arturo had died
suddenly during the night. It cannot be, for I knew him to be
hale and hearty, and likely to bless the church with rich gifts for
many years. Let me hear the report contradicted. No, not from
you," as Benventuro was about to speak ; u but from the lips of
his wife, whom he loved so dearly, and who is so attached to him
that the presence of other men is distasteful. Let her tell me in
joyful tones that the Don is well and happy."
TROUBLE BREWING. 129
The sneer was well aimed, but luckily Donna Teresa was un
conscious of it, for she was weeping, with her handkerchief to her
eyes.
The priest stole across the room, and took the lady s hand and
pressed it more warmly than I thought he was entitled to ; but
the hand was withdrawn hastily, and I saw by the swelling bosom
that auger was taking the place of grief.
" Tell me, daughter," the priest said, "is the news true? 13
your beloved husband in the keeping of the saints?"
u He is dead," she answered.
" Alas ! that all flesh should be mortal. He must have died
suddenly, and no doubt it will be a great consolation to you to
know the cause of his death. A most rigid examination shall be
made, and the first physicians of Manila will be called upon to
decide."
u I have already sent for one, brother Juan, and he will prob*
ably be here in the course of the forenoon," Benveuturo said,
with a sweet smile.
" Cue physician is not enough. As the confessor of the de
ceased, I must assume a little authority in this matter, as I have
often talked with him in regard to his last wishes. We must have
five of the best physicians in the city to investigate the case. For
your own reputation, for the reputation of your convent, for the
reputation of these young men, whose company the deceased has
sought so often, it is necessary that a strict examination should
be had, so that all suspicion shall be put at rest."
Senventuro did not wince in the least. On the contrary, he
seemed to grow more cheerful as his brother became severe and
vindictive.
" I shall cheerfully second you in the work, not because my
little retreat will be in any danger from unjust suspicions, but
simply to satisfy the wife of our friend, whose anguish at the
event only equals my own," replied Benventuro.
The thin priest bowed, and a peculiar smile passed over his
pale face. The smile might betoken doubt it might mean sat
isfaction.
" The lady will readily acknowledge that this is no place for
her since she has become a widow," Father Juan said, after a
Bhort pause, as mild as he could possibly speak ; " and as she has
known me for many years, and is aware that I possessed her hus-
9
130 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
band s confidence in an eminent degree, she will have no hesita
tion to place herself under my care for a while, until her business
affairs are settled. This plan is one that met the approbation of
Don Arturo, not many weeks before his sudden death.
Father Benveuturo cast a rapid glance at me, which seemed to
say, " You see that he is already at work."
44 She could not be under the charge of a better man," was his
reply.
" I am glad to think that you approve of my course. At the
convent of San Sebastian she will not want for attentions and
sympathy, and will there meet with friends whose whole thoughts
will be devoted to her interest. The world is full of snares, and
one so young and good should not be suffered to encounter them.
Lady, when shall you be ready to accompany me ? "
I trembled for fear that Teresa would suffer herself to be led
away by his insidious approaches, but I was mistaken. She with
drew her handkerchief from her eyes, and there were no longer
tears to be seen in those flashing orbs, nor was there timidity in
her look as she started to her feet.
" If I have remained silent," she said, " during your conversa
tion, it is because I paid but little attention to it, aud was una
ware of its import. But now I wish you to understand me dis
tinctly that I am free to do as I please, and shall do so regard
less of church, my husband s last wishes, or all the priests in
existence. I shall not enter your convent. I shall not request
your advice and assistance in my business affairs. My lawyer
will attend to all concerns of that kind, and when I leave this
place my residence in Manila will be open to receive me. Now,
sir, let me hear no more of convents, or of priestly interference."
I had never seen her so excited before during my acquaintance,
und I little thought that she possessed such a strong will of her
own beneath an appearance of indifference.
A smile of triumph mantled the face of Benventuro, but it
vanished in an instant.
" Lady," he said, " have you thought well of the course which
you propose to take? Perhaps in the solitary gloom of my
brother s convent you would find many attractions that you
know not of."
" I have determined, aud shall adhere to my plan," she an*
jwered, full of dignity.
FATHER JUAN S RAGE. 131
" But your husband s wishes," suggested Father Juan, in a
voice trembling with rage.
" Are not binding upon me. I have been secluded from the
world long enough, and have no desire to end my days in a con
vent," Teresa replied.
" But we have no desire that you should. We simply ask you
to find shelter at our holy house, until your period of mourning
has passed, away. Then you may depart if you wish."
Father Juan could hardly conceal his indignation, it was so
great, while speaking. He saw the prize that he had long angled
for about to slip from his hook, and he was impotent to secure it.
Ho cast a vindictive glance at Father Benventuro ; but that skilful
general was looking upon the polished floor, as though he was
entirely indifferent in regard to the matter.
" You have had my answer to your proposition," Teresa replied,
with a wave of her jewelled hand. u If your advice were meant
for my good, I m thankful ; but hereafter I shall seek for as
sistance from those who know more of the world and less of
saints."
The rage of the priest could no longer be restrained. His little
eyes snapped as though emitting sparks of fire, and his pallid
face became flushed and white by turns. When he looked at me
he seemed desirous of annihilating me in the most summary man
ner ; but I appeared entirely indifferent to his rage, and remained
on the defensive, still maintaining my position by the side of Don
na Teresa.
ft I see how it is love for a heretic has caused you to forget
the memory of your husband, and your duty to the church," Fa
ther Juan said, with ill-concealed rage. " You know the will of
his excellency the archbishop, and be assured it shall be enforced to
the letter. No Protestant can marry a rich Catholic lady without
abjuring his religion, and giving proof of his conversion to the
true faith. This is the law, and I call upon Father Benventuro to
confirm my assertions."
" Father Juan is right. He has quoted the custom of our holy
church ; but he has forgotten to mention that an indulgence can
be purchased on the payment of a heavy* sum, and on the solemn
promise of the bridegroom that his wife shall go to confessionals,
and exercise her own right in regard to her fortune, and that her
children shall be educated Catholics,"
132 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
The fair face of Teresa flushed as she heard the priests, and Jiei
eyes sparkled with passion.
" Have I fallen so low that I am thus lectured by a mail who
pretends to be devoted to the memory of my husband, and anx
ious for my welfare? Am I to be told what I shall do and what
I shall not do, simply because I possess wealth in my own right,
when it is well known that every Mestiza girl oil the island can
marry whom she pleases, if she is fortunate enough to own a peso?
By the saints, I should think that I was a school-girl, and you a
guardian, to be thus advised. Go, sir, and when I want your
advice I will send for you, and not before."
She pointed to the door, but Father Juan was not disposed to
thus give up the contest. His look of rage was dropped, and one
of humility assumed ; and so quick was the transition, that even
I was astonished, and Father Benventuro troubled, for we both
knew that kindness was more apt to win with Teresa than harsh
ness.
" If I have said ought that could wound, I pray that you and
the saints may pardon me," cried Father Juan, in a tone so mild,
that I should have forgiven him on the spot if I had not known
that he was acting a part, and for very selfish reasons.
" Guillermo," he continued, " I meant no disrespect to you, for
I have always loved you like a father, and would gladly welcome
you to the true faith, and hope that the time is not far distant
when I shall have an opportunity to do so. But until that time I
presume no marriage will unite you with one I love so well as
I do Donna Teresa."
u Presume nothing that has reference to myself, sir," I said,
speaking for the first time ; * you have, this morning, mentioned
me in connection with the lady, and hinted at a state of things
that neither you nor any other person has a right to allude to. If
I love the lady, or the lady loves me, it is none of your business,
provided, of course, we do not make you the repository of our se
crets, as we certainly shall not."
* That s the talk," cried Allen, who had been industriously en
gaged in smoking a cigar during the conference, and jerked out
his words at the same time that he jerked his cigar out of the
window. " It appears to me that there s a cussed sight more talk
than is necessary, and that some of you are counting your chickens
before they are hatched, as we say in Massachusetts a state that
A COMPROMISE. 133
is of some importance when the raising of schoolmasters and min
isters is taken into consideration. Let everything drop until the
lady is over her trouble, and then, if she is desirous of marrying,
why, let her do so, no matter who he is if she is satisfied. She is
more interested than any one else, and should have her w r ay this
time. That s my opinion ; you have it for what it is worth ; and
now I should like some breakfast."
It was refreshing to see how quick Father Benventuro walked
across the room and shook hands with Allen, after the latter
had delivered his speech ; and it was funny to see Father Juan
put the best face that he could upon the matter, and do *he
same.
" I think that your suggestions are the best that can be made,"
said the latter, speaking in a low tone, so that Donna Teresa could
uot overhear him ; " if she wishes to marry a second time, I
certainly shall offer no objections, provided, of course, she
makes choice of the man who I think would make a good hus
band."
Father Benventuro looked at me and winked, as much as to
say, " Humbug," although he was careful not to let his brother
priest see him.
" Coffee and chocolate are on the table," cried Anlonio. as ho-
threw open the door and surveyed the party with a malicious
grin.
" And we are ready for it," cried the jolly-looking Benventuro,
offering his fat hand to the lady, and leading her towards the
door ; but just as I was about to follow, Father Juan touched me
on the shoulder.
" One word, my son," he said, in a tone so significant that I
could not help listening to him. " I wish to speak to you con
fidentially ; can I do so?" he asked.
" Certainly. Proceed."
u I wish to be your friend, my son," he continued, laying his
thin hand upon my shoulder, and studying the expression of my
face with his little black, twinkling eyes.
" I am glad to hear it, although I was not aware that we had
ever been enemies," I replied, wondering what he was driving at,
and feeling somewhat anxious, for I saw the face of Father Benven
turo thrust cautiously into the door, two or three times, watching
our conference.
134 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
u Not exactly enemies, my son ; but still, not friends, although
I have always regarded you as a most promising young man, and
I think that if you were a native of Spain, we should feel proud
of you."
I bowed low at the compliment, and looked for more explicit
details.
" This sudden death of Don Arturo weighs heavily on my
heart. It was very sudden was it not?"
" The poor man did not complain last night when he retired,"
I answered. %
" Ah ! "
The holy man said no more for a few seconds, and seemed to
be thinking deeply ; but I noticed that his black eyes were fixed
upon my face as though he was struck by the paleness of my com
plexion.
" He has left a widow of surpassing loveliness, and over a mil
lion of dollars," my companion remarked at length.
I pretended to be indifferent ; but I was not, for I felt the
warm blood rush to my face, and fill the veins as though about to
burst them.
" Over a million dollars," repeated the priest, taking a pinch
of snuff.
" Don Arturo was fortunate during his long life," I remarked.
" He was ; but I know a man who can be more so, if he is
willing."
I looked at the priest for a few moments without speaking. He.
was indifferent, and took snuff with avidity.
" Go on," I said at length.
" I say that I know a man who can be more fortunate, provided
my counsels are listened to."
" Let me hear them, and then I can best judge what you
mean," was my answer, and looking up saw Benventuro standing
at the door, holding up a finger as a warning to me how I un
bosomed myself. *
" I will be candid with you, and shall expect the same thing in
return. May I be so bold as to require it?"
I made no answer, and the priest continued :
u I see that I may, and thank you for your generosity. Let us
work together, and I shall have the happiness of seeing Douna
Teresa united to the man she long has loved, and you joined
A SUBTILE PROPOSITION. 135
to a lady for whom you entertain the most profound affection.
Don t interrupt me, for I know what I say to be the truth. You
are not ambitious, but I am, and to rise I must have your assist
ance. This you will grant me if I help you ? "
"How-"
" I will explain. With the immense amount of money that
you have at command after your marriage, you can well afford to
spare a portion for the use of the church. I am the church that
desires it, and I suppose we can arrange the matter to our mu
tual satisfaction. What say you to my proposition? I will help
you, and you help me."
" What position do you desire? " I asked.
" A bishopric," was the prompt reply.
" The devil ! " I thought ; but I did not utter my thoughts aloud ;
" here are two priests struggling for the same office, and both
hope to gain it by my marriage. Shall I temporize and deceive
them both, or shall I be faithful to my first proposition? "
"Your answer?" demanded Father Juan, quite confident that
it would be a favorable one.
" I cannot listen to you on that subject, for the hand of Donna
Teresa is not to be bought and sold like merchandise. This is
not the time to talk of her marriage, and even if it was, I should
have to decline your bargain."
u Better think twice before you decide," he said, " for without
me you will never espouse the widow."
" Then she will have to remain a widow. I have done as you
requested, answered you fairly and candidly, and I hope you are
satisfied. Still, as I do not wish your enmity, I will pledge my
word to make you a handsome present the very day that unites
me to the lady."
" He has been before me," I heard the priest mutter through
his teeth ; but if he was angry he did not manifest it, for he was
too good a manager for that. He applied his thumb and forefin
ger to his snuff-box with renewed vigor, and seemed refreshed by
the fragrance and exhilarating effect of the tobacco. Then he
smiled most sweetly, and taking my arm, led me into the room
where the rest of the company were sipping coffee and chocolate,
none of them, excepting the priest, noting our absence.
Teresa soon left the room, for our conversation was not inter
esting to her, and she wished to commune with her own thoughts
136 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
regarding her present condition. Father Juan and Benventuro
were unusually gracious to each other, but I noticed that the feeling
did not extend to their hearts, and that they hated each other as
cordially as ever, but uselessly tried to conceal that sentiment, in
which line I think Benventuro had the advantage.
The latter soon made an excuse for quitting the table, and as he
did so he made a sign that he wished a short conversation with
me as soon as possible. Leaving Allen and Father Juan discuss
ing the merits of Spain and her great men, as represented in the
government of Manila, I left the table, lighted a cigar, and
strolled into the court-yard, keeping out of sight of those who
might look from the window and witness the meeting which the
priest was eager to obtain. I had scarcely walked a dozen steps,
when I heard Benventuro waddling after me, his face showing
the anxiety which he felt to know the result of Father Juan s
conversation.
" Well," he said, " fortune is on our side at last. The coast is
clear ; now lay siege and be happy."
" There is time enough for all that," I replied, with an indiffer
ence I did not feel.
4t There is not time enough," my companion repeated with
energy ; " a womau s heart is like a tinder-box full of tinder.
It catches at a spark, and is easily extinguished. The women of
my country like to be wooed and won in a hurry, and the more
love that you show, and the hotter you press your suit, the quicker
they yield. Strike now, while away from all her friends, and
extort from her a full confession, and if possible, an oath, that
she will wed you in three months time, or even sooner."
" Delicacy forbids me to do so," I answered, not over pleased
at the advice.
" To the devil with your delicacy," roared the priest, and then
desirous of retrieving his reputation, he went on to say, " We
Lave too much at stake to be over-scrupulous ; so let us urge this
affair forward, and I ll warrant you will both thank me when
united. Be a lover, and an impetuous one, and the lady will not
resent it. I am anxious for your happiness."
" And your advancement," I suggested.
"Diablo! yes; why shouldn t 1? We must work together,
amigo, or all will fail."
" So Father Juan says," I answered.
SURROUNDED BY SUITORS. 137
"May tli e blessed saints soon call Father Juan to their keep
ing, for he is too good for this world," was the pious ejaculation
of the priest ; and then he was eager to have me repeat the con
versation which I had held with the priest.
I complied with the request, and Benventuro was furious at
the thought of his brother priest attempting so mean a snare ;
find not until I had repeatedly informed him that I had declined
his offer, did my friend allow his passion to subside.
u We must fight carefully, or that man will spoil our plans,"
the priest said, and I thought so ; but without coming to any
definite conclusion, we separated and rejoined the company.
In the course of the forenoon a physician arrived from Ma
nila, talked with Father Benventuro, looked at the body of Don
Arturo, shrugged his shoulders, and said that it was a u visita
tion of Providence," and that the body had better be buried as
quickly as possible. Father Juan made no objections, and the
corpse was removed to Manila ; and in a few hours Donna Teresa,
Allen, and myself followed in a banco, and saw her installed in her
house, and surrounded by friends and servants.
Eight weeks had passed since the death of Don Arturo, and
the period for mourning had expired. Donna Teresa was the
toast and admiration of the capital, for she had emerged from
her seclusion, thrown aside her habiliments of woe, and mingled
with the gay and most fashionable company in Manila. Her
spacious mansion received guests once a week, and every night
she was not confined to her house to receive them she was ab
sent at a ball or party, with the single exception of Sunday
evenings, when the theatre was opened to the lovers of the drama,
and where I was certain to find her surrounded by officers in the
Spanish army, government officials, men with titles and little
fortune, and men with fortune who would have given half their
worldly wealth for titles. Catholics and Protestants, Chinese and
Malays, Americans and English, all flocked to the theatre on
Sunday evenings, for the purpose of gossiping, listening to the
military bands which formed the orchestra, talking about trade,
and finally laughing at the actors and actresses when too tame,
and condemning them when too ranting.
Since the death of Donna Teresa s husband, I had seen her
often ; but I had forborne to press my visit, or to refer to mar
riage, simply because I thought that she avoided the subject oa
133 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
purpose, and I did not wish to give her pain, or to make hei
think that I was eager to conclude a bargain so advantageous to
myself. I sometimes met her at the house of a friend, where we
had both been invited to a party ; but I never went with her, or
accompanied her home, and Donna Teresa never intimated that
she desired me to do so. She went and returned in her car-
riage, and was safe in the protection of her servants.
Perhaps there was a feeling of coldness growing up between
us, and I thought I could perceive it more perceptibly at every
interview. I knew where to trace it as plainly as though I
had not seen the thin face and twinkling eyes of Father Juan leav
ing her house with a thoughtful brow. I was too proud to ask for
an explanation, and I think that Teresa labored under the delu
sion that it was my place to follow her from ball to ball, and be
content to pick up her fan or handkerchief, if either should chance
to fall while she was dancing with a cavalry officer or a lieuten
ant of foot ; but if she did entertain such ideas, she found out her
mistake, and pouted accordingly.
Yet I loved her dearly better, perhaps, than I had ever loved ;
and sleeping or waking she was ever before me. But we had not
talked of love for many weeks. Our conversation, when we met,
was confined to gossip, or an inquiry as to whether such and such
a party was pleasant ; yet when I mentioned Santa Mesa, and
the friends I neglected there, and expressed an intention of
seeing them, I could see a look of displeasure upon the face of
Teresa, and it would not vanish until I had promised to forego
my visit for the present. I had not hunted since the Don s death ;
I had neglected all the exciting sports, which had made my
residence upon the island so pleasant ; and I seldom rode upon
the Calzarda at sunset for fear of having my jealousy excited by
seeing the lady surrounded by a crowd of admirers, upon whom
she smiled most sweetly, while I, perhaps, received a nod, or a
slight wave of her hand.
Father Bejaventuro s letters to me, constantly urging expedition
and inquiring why I delayed my marriage, remained unanswered ;
for I could write no good news, and I did not wish to excite the
padre by stating the true facts of the case. Thus day after day
passed, and the three months were on the wane, and there was
vo prospect of a wedding.
It was Sunday night, and the theatre was open, and receiving
AT THE THEATRE. 139
its crowd of votaries, who were landed at the door in carriages,
driven between lines of mounted lancers, stationed there to pre
serve order, and watch over the safety of the governor general,
who always attended the theatre when it was open, for the
purpose of encouraging the drama, and showing himself to his
loyal subjects. I knew that Teresa would be there, and I had
resolved all day that I would remain at home and peruse a pile
of American newspapers which I had received from the mails
the day before ; but as the time drew near for the performances
to commence, I repented of my resolution, and thought that I
could at least have the satisfaction of gazing at my idol from an
obscure part of the building, and not let my presence be known.
The more I thought of the matter, the more restless I grew, until
at length love conquered.
" Ho, muchacho ! " I shouted to my servant, who was busily
engaged in the hall, painting huge eyes upon a kite which he
was to fly the next day for a wager with a Mestizo, who lived
near us.
" Si, scnor" he answered promptly, bringing a coal of fire upon
a plate, supposing that I wanted a light for my cigar.
" The carriage, presto ! " I shouted ; and he vanished in an
instant to inform the coachman of my wishes.
I must confess that for a lover who intended to look at his
mistress from a distance, I was a most particular man in regard
to my dress that night, and before I had completed my toilet I
heard the carriage rumble from the court-yard, and stop in front
of my bachelor quarters. My clothes, not made by the bungling
tailors of Manila, fitted me admirably, and I could not help nod
ding my head approvingly, as I surveyed them in the glass just
before I started for the theatre.
It wanted half an hour of the time the performances were
to commence ; yet the theatre was already well filled, and the
ladies were flirting their fans and chatting gayly in their boxes,
criticising the dresses of their neighbors with a freedom only
equalled by the Americans. I glanced at the numerous hand
some faces, but did not see Teresa, and I began to fear that she
would not be present ; but while I was hoping most sincerely that
she would come, I noticed an unusual stir in the lobby, and then,
proud as a duchess, with diamonds upon her neck and arms,
in glided the lady of my thoughts, looking more beautiful than
140 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
ever, and seeming unconscious of the sensation which she created.
She cast her large, dark eyes around the theatre rapidly, and
then I thought I saw a shade of disappointment upon her brow ;
but it was not allowed to rest there long, for half a dozen gentle
men entered the box, and paid their respects to the lady, chatted
for a moment, and then retired to give place to others.
. Yet still I could see that those large black eyes were often cast
over the faces of the audience, and I felt a little pang of jealousy,
as I thought that she was watching for a rival, whom she loved
more than myself.
At length a dark, heavy-bearded officer, a captain in the army,
sat by her side, and laughed and talked with considerable free
dom. He seemed determined that the audience should under
stand that he was on a friendly footing with the lady, and that
she was disposed to feel flattered at his attentions.
I had resolved, when I left the house, not to approach her box,
or to -speak to her ; but after the officer s assurance I could no
longer contain myself, and determined to convince the lady that
I could be as indifferent as herself.
With as much coolness as I could command, I entered the box,
and in an instant every glass and every eye in the house were
levelled at me. Even the officer turned half round to see who
was to disturb his tete-a-tete, and a scowl passed over his face
when he saw me. Teresa did not turn her head, or heed me,
until I spoke, and then she started and dropped her fan, which
the captain hastened to pick up and restore.
" Buenas noclies. Donna Teresa," I said, as calmly as though
I had been speaking to an ordinary friend.
The military man looked as though I was taking great liberties.,
and even seemed inclined to stare me into a feeling of defiance ;
but I paid no more attention to him than if he had been a servant
waiting with refreshments.
" Ah, Guillermo ! " Teresa exclaimed, a slight blush mantling
her face ; " I am glad to see you. Are you well? "
She extended but the tips of her fingers to"me, and I was as
sparing of my hand as herself, and had no sooner touched her
fingers than I let them drop as though fearful of contagion. I
saw a slight pout upon her red lips, and then she renewed her
conversation with the captain, much to his delight.
For only a moment did I listen to it, and then, with a low bow
TOM BAKER. 141
and an unconcerned air, I turned to leave the box ; but the demon
of jealousy was in my heart, and I almost resolved not to speak
to the fair coquette again.
u Are you going, Senor Guillermo? " she asked ; and I fancied
that there was a slight tremor in her voice, but I might have been
mistaken.
u I have a few friends who m I wish to speak with," I replied.
" Shall I see you again this evening? " she asked.
" Quien sale?" I replied, with a smile. " I may remain all
the evening, or leave shortly. It will depend upon the interest
of the play."
I bowed low, and passed out ; but when I looked back I saw
that she was flirting her fan before her face, and that she seemed
not so much interested in the officer s conversation as before my
visit. How I boiled with rage and jealousy, and blamed myself
for thinking. of the lady at all ! but the more I tried to banish her
from my mind, the oftener she returned to make ,me wretched.
I went to a distant part of the house, and wished for the perform
ance to commence, so that I could relieve my thoughts of Teresa s
image. I leaned over a box, with my hand over my eyes ; yet
even there I was obliged to hear Teresa s name mentioned, for
a party of ladies were discussing her merits and demerits quite
frankly.
At length the overture commenced, and all talking ceased ; for
the Spanish people love music, and are capable of appreciating
what they hear. The band played very finely, and then up went
the curtain, and the representation of a domestic drama com
menced. Before the first act was finished, I tired of the dull plot,
and was making my way to the saloon for the purpose of smoking
a cigar, when whom should I run against but a young fellow named
Tom Baker, who was connected with a. house in China, and who
had run over to Manila for the purpose of having some fun and
recruiting his health. The latter was but a second consideration
in comparison with the first ; and although he had been in the
city but a month, ^et he had learned more of what was going on
than I had known during my residence.
" By thunder ! " was Tom s exclamation, as we shook hands,
" I am glad to see you, for it s devilish dull here to-night. The
idea of putting such a play as that on the stage is ridiculous, and
the manager should be told so. Why don t they take pattern
142 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
from New York theatres, and bring out stars and novelties?
Horse pieces would be good. Only get up something startling,
and put about half a hundred of those black devils, with their
muskets, upon the stage to do the supes," pointing to a soldier,
who stood near by, totally unconscious of the compliment, " and
I ll warrant that the piece would take, and run three weeks at
least. You don t know the manager do you ? "
I replied that I had been introduced to him.
" He don t amount to much, I should think, although I wish 1
was acquainted with him. I d put him up to a thing or two,
you d better believe. I wouldn t mind going on and fighting a
broadsword combat, with the American flag in one hand and a
pair of top boots on my feet to give effect to the scene, and
let these Spaniards know that there s one feller ready to defend
the honor of his country at all hazards. Or, if that wouldn t do,
let s get up u Tom and Jerry," with you and me in the boxing
scene, and give em a specimen of the " manly art." You can
box, I know, for I have seen you do some neat things with your
mawlers at Hong Kong. We could kinder be easy with each
other, and astonish the folks in this part of the world with the
kind of stuff the Yankees are made of."
" I don t think that it would succeed, Tom, for the manager is
shy of amateurs," I replied, amused at his rattling, off-hand man
ner, and forgetting my misery in listening to him.
" Then we must try something else that will carry the town by
storm," Tom exclaimed. " Suppose I should get up a ballet,
drill the girls myself, and learn em all the peritropal movements ;
see that their skirts are short enough, and that they are graceful
while dancing. In a week s time I think that I could give a
good representation, and that the girls would do credit to my
training."
" It wouldn t do, Tom ; the ladies would be scandalized, and
refuse to visit the house, if they knew that a roue like you was
engaged in the matter."
" Then the men would be more fierce to see the ballet, and I
believe that it would pay. If the manager refuses to get up my
piece, I ll hire his theatre, and open it for the gratification of my
friends. I can do it, and I will."
" Where will you find the girls, Tom?" I asked.
" A man with money can always find enough of them. But
A FRIUND S ADVICE. 143
speaking of women, my friend, I have observed that you don t
look quite like yourself recently ; I don t find any of that hail
fellow you used to exhibit at Hong Kong, and which was the de
light of our club. What is the matter? any trouble? Confide in
me, my boy, and I ll give you some good advice. If money mat
ters are not all right, name the sum, and you are welcome to it."
I assured my friend that money was not required to make me
enjoy life, and endeavored to give his thoughts another turn, but
it was in vain.
" Something is the matter, I know, for I can see that you are
growing thin. Tain t a woman affair is it? If it is, just take
my advice, and get out of it as fast as possible. I ve been there,
I have, and I know all about it. Two years ago I had to leave
New York to get cured of the heart complaint, or I should have
married and settled for life afore this ; and then what chance for
fun should I have had? There is fun enough without your giving
up your life for one woman. Ride, flirt, and have a good time,
and the handsomest woman in the country will no longer have a
turn upon your heart. I tell you I ain t very old, but I have had
a darned lot of experience in this world, and if a feller will only
follow my directions, I can bring him out as whole as "
" Yourself? " I suggested, seeing that he hesitated for a word.
u Precisely ; I can do what I promise, you had better believe.
Now we are of the same ages, but I ll wager a supper that I ve
seen more of life than you, cos I always lived in New York, and
the governor always kept me well supplied with money, and I
went it with a rush, until he sent me as junior partner to that
blasted Hong Kong, where there s no life, nor fun, nor handsome
women. Dust and sand, high winds and naked Chinamen, are
all that a feller sees there ; and when I want fun, I say I m sick,
and come over here and have it ; there s some life here, if you only
look for it."
I smiled at his eagerness to convince me that he was up to the
tricks of the world, and he continued :
" Now I don t want you to tell me the secret of your heart, cos
that is none of my business, but I want to see you cheerful and
all right ; and to do so I want you to put yourself under my
directions for a few days, and if you don t call me a good doctor,
then I will resign my position, and give you up as incurable.
What do you say ? "
144 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" What remedies do you propose to use? "
" That is my secret. I shall use agreeable ones ; but to do so,
I must have the use of your house for a few nights. Here, just
call your coachman, and send him home with orders to have a
first-class supper for four all ready at twelve to-night, while I
write an order to my landlord to send to your residence a dozen
bottles of Mum s green seal. It is wine that I brought over with
me ; I know what it is."
"But who is to compose our party?" I demanded.
" No matter. Two of them will be gentlemen, and two of
them"
At this moment the thin face of Father Juan was turned towards
me, and I saw a malicious smile upon his countenance. He had
overheard every word of our conversation, and seemed rejoiced
at it. I had gone too far to recede, for I knew that what had
been said would be related to Donna Teresa in a few minutes ;
and perhaps I took a malicious joy in having her hear that I was
growing wild under her cold treatment.
" Invite whom you please," I said to Tom ; " the supper will
be ready, and I pledge the reputation of my cook that it shall be
a good one."
" That s the talk spoken like a man. We will make a night
of it, and through the influence of champagne, and as pretty eyes
as can be found in Manila, I pledge rny word that you will be a
different man in a week s time."
I called my coachman, who was not far from the theatre, smok
ing a cigar on his box, gave him the necessary orders, and direc
tions to return to the theatre as soon as he had executed them,
and then once more joined Tom.
FATHER JUAN AND TOM. 145
CHAPTER VI.
A. WARNING. FATHER JUAN ON THE TRAIL. TOM AND DONNA
TERESA. THE SUPPER, AND WHAT COME OF IT.
ON my return to the theatre I encountered the dark, piercing
eyes of Father Juan, who seemed to be hovering around me that
night as though I were upon some treasonable errand, and he was
determined to secure a reward for my apprehension. I passed
him without remark, but I did not fail to detect the sneer of tri
umph which his thin lips expressed, although he did make an
effort to hide it.
While I stood watching the retreating form of the priest, I felt
a hand upon my shoulder, and turning, saw Tom Baker.
" I say, old feller," cried Tom, " what are you looking after
that old codger for ? Don t owe him anything do you ? He ban
just been telling me what a good friend he is of yours, and so
I had to shake hands with him on that, and ask him to drink ;
but he declined in such a way that I think he would take a drop
behind the door. Who is the old cock? He acts like a gentle
man."
" That is Father Juan, of the convent of Sebastian," I replied.
" I ku^w that he was a priest, but I wish I had known that he
was connected with a convent. I m blessed if I wouldn t have
aske d him to let me see his girls, and I wouldn t mind giving a
pretty sum for the privilege. The old cock seemed kinder gra
cious, although I didn t talk but a few minutes with him, for he
was in a hurry."
" You had better keep your money, and not ask for such privi
leges as you desire, if you wish to keep a whole skin," I said,
walking slowly towards the theatre, arm in arm with Tom.
u Whole skin? What do you mean? " he asked in surprise.
".Simply that the priests of Manila would not let the govern
or general look at the girls whom they have in charge ; so you can
imagine what show of success a heretic like you would have.
Make no offers of money to such men, unless for church purposes,
for they can command a hundred knives."
10
146 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" That for their knives," cried Tom, snapping his fingers with
all the bravado of an American. " I ve got a six-shooter in
my pocket that would frighten a dozen natives."
" Provided, of course, it was pointed at them, which they would
take precious good care should not be the case. The men I speak
of strike when you least expect the blow, and in the dark. Be
careful, Tom, for your life is precious to your country."
The fellow laughed, and said no more about being introduced
to convent girls ; but when we entered the theatre he surveyed the
house through his opera-glass, one of the relics of his fast days,
a splendid instrument, mounted with gold and pearl, and well cal
culated to catch the eyes of Spanish ladies.
" Who in thunder is that?" cried Tom, regardless of the play,
directing his glass towards the box of Donna Teresa. " I thought
that I had seen some handsome women in my day, but she knocks
em all higher than a kite. What eyes ! and what a face ! Tell
me who she is, or I shall go and "
u Commit suicide," I suggested.
" No, sir, not for a woman. I meant that I should go and tako
a gin cocktail. And while I am speaking of that strange but ex
tremely palatable mixture, would you credit the assertion when I
state that not a man in the city seems to know the meaning of
the words, and I am actually obliged to concoct the drink with
my own hands ? But see, the lady is looking this way, and as I
live she is bowing and smiling. Blast it, it can t be possible that
I have made a conquest so soon. Yet it must be so, fof- now the
smile is changed to a look of extreme melancholy. What shall I
do ! Shall I go to her box, and introduce myself? or shall I send
her a note, declaring that I love her to distraction ? "
" I should not recommend either course," I answered, dryly.
* Why not? I m not afraid of that black devil in uniform,
rvuo talks with her every few minutes, cos I believe that I ve got
more science than he has, and could knock him out of time in a
couple of rounds."
" Perhaps the officer would prefer steel to fists," I remarked.
. " Even then I should give him a fair show, for I had two quar
ters with Professor Sharpedge, the best small-sword man in York,
and he used to boast of my performances. But joking aside, how
shall I make the-acquaiutance of the lady? for she has lighted a fire
in my heart that all cocktails ever concocted could not extinguish.
A CONFERENCE. t 147
Is she married or single, rich or poor? But she don t look as
though she was short of cash, for r by Jove, she has got lots of
diamonds" on her person, and they are of the first water, too ; for
let me alone for knowing paste."
" She is a widow," I answered, " and very rich. She hag
more admirers than she knows by name ; is as good as she is
handsome ; but I don t think you would stand any chance for her
affections."
" Don t believe that," replied Tom, with commendable assur
ance. " I know how to deal with women better than most men,
cos I ve had such a deuced lot of experience in York. Give me
an introduction, and then let me alone for working my way into
her heart as a rabbit burrows in a bank of earth."
44 The comparison is too strong to be resisted," I replied. "You
shall have an introduction, and much good may it do you."
Tom was so overjoyed that he insisted upon repairing to the
saloon of the theatre, and imbibing a glass of wine ; and as there
was nothing upon the stage that was worth seeing, I readily con
sented.
Tom smoked his cigar and sipped his wine in silence for a few
minutes, but at length said,
44 Speaking of the pretty widow with the millions, why the
deuce has it never occurred to you that it would be a great stroke
of policy to marry her ? hey ? "
44 What chance could I stand with a lively woman, like her,
fond of bull-fights and kindred sports?" I replied, evasively.
" That s so," cried Tom, energetically. " A woman likes a
man that has got some dash and go-ahead in him one that is a
favorite with her own sex, and gives her a little cause for jealousy."
44 Say some such a man as yourself," I suggested, with a smile.
" Well, joking aside, I rather flatter myself that I am calcu
lated to make some woman happy and miserable at the same time ;
and with your recommendation, I d marry the widow this night,
with all ceremony."
44 Provided, of course, she would have you," I replied, with a
laugh at his assurance.
44 If she knew me she would have me fast enough. But don t
let us sit here discussing improbabilities all night, when better
things await us. Let us take a look at the theatre, and then for
our company and supper."
148 ** LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
We locked arms and sauntered back to the theater, and once
more surveyed the audience and the stage. On the latter a young
peasant was telling a high-born lady that he would die for
her, if it was necessary ; and the lady didn t seem to know
whether it was best to be grateful or indignant, and finally split
the difference, and began to cry, which act made Tom sarcastic,
for he said it was a weapon that they always used upon all oc
casions and in all places.
In the box with Teresa was Father Juan, who seemed to be
communicating some news to the lady, for she was listening at
tentively to all that he said ; and I saw that, as he proceeded, a
frown gathered upon his brow, and she looked as I had seen her
but once before.
"Hallo! what is the matter with the handsome widow?"
asked Tom, surveying her through his glass. " She looks as
cross as a girl that has lost her lover. She s got a bit of temper,
I ll warrant, and I d like her all the better for it. Hang it, I
.can t bear a woman that s too insipid to quarrej, and always has
an amiable expression of face, as though prepared for heaven at
any moment. When I was in New .York, I used to pay atten
tion to the girls who had the most temper, just for the purpose
of getting them mad and jealous at times ; but once I carried
the joke too far, and got this cut on my forehead, to pay for my
trouble."
He showed a scar, an inch long, near his left temple ; and the
wound had evidently been a severe one.
"The she-devil threw a tumbler at me," Tom continued ; " and
it struck with some force, you had better believe ; and for a few-
weeks I was incapable of joking. But would you think it, the
girl was^the first one to offer me assistance, and to express sor
row for the occurrence. What unaccountable beings women are
ain t they? At one moment they are ready to kill us, and the
next breath to love us ; and hang me if you know when they are
ready for either."
Tom continued railing until the priest had finished the commu
nication he was charged with, and then I saw him leave the lady s
box in the same cat-like manner which was so characteristic of the
man. He passed near us, but did not raise his eyes from the floor,
where they were fixed, as though searching for lost pocket-books.
" Come, introduce me to-night to the widow," cried Tom, who
AT HOME. 149
bad hardly removed his glass from the face of the lady. " The
more I see of her, the more love and admiration I feel. Now ig
as good a time as any other, and I should so enjoy a chat with
her in the face of the whole house ! "
The proposition did not suit my convenience ; so I found no
difficulty in making Tom consent to a postponement until a more
favorable opportunity, and by the time his thoughts took another
turn, I looked at my watch, and found that it was past ten.
" Come along, for we have seen enough of this for one night,"
my companion exclaimed. * I m getting supperish, and must be
off to keep my appointment. You take your carriage and drive
home* and I ll be there fore half an hour s time. Tell the cook
to have supper at twelve, precisely, and to cool the champagne by
exposure in water in the open air. You be ready to receive me
and my company, and then you shall have your choice, and we ll
make a night of it."
I promised compliance with his wishes, and we parted just as
the curtain fell upon the close of the last piece. He rolled off in
hrs carriage at a rapid speed, and I took my course homeward,
dissatisfied with myself, with Donna Teresa, and with Tom, for
1 began to think that I had consented most too readily to have
my house turned into a den of revelry, although I knew that my
neighbors would think none the less of me for it, for but few
prudish people exist in Manila, and it s one of the best cities for
turning deaf ears to little faults I ever lived in.
I found my cook hard at work at his supper, which he assured
me should be worthy of his skill, and after seeing that everything
was prepared for the reception of my company, I recommenced
on my pile of newspapers, and was busy over a long article on
the landing of filibusters at Cuba, when my boy-of-all-work en
tered the room, looking as though he had something important to
communicate.
" Senor, the holy Father Juan has been here this evening," he
said.
" Indeed ! for what?" I asked, somewhat astonished.
u He asked if you were at home, senor, and when I said that
you were at the theatre, he left immediately."
u Did he say nothing more? " I inquired.
" Nothing, senor ; only he remarked, that by the smell of the
food he should suppose you intended to have company to-night."
150 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" And your answer?" I demanded, somewhat sternly.
" I said, senor, that I did not know your business, and that you
would inform him if he would visit the theatre."
I ruminated for some time respecting the visit of the priest, for
it was. to me very evident that Father Juan was tracking my steps,
and was determined to see whom I entertained, for the purpose of
informing Teresa, and if possible breaking off the alliance which
he still seemed to think existed between us.
" I will defeat him yet," I muttered ; and summoning the boy,
I gave special orders tffat if Father Juan called a second time,
he was not to be admitted to the house, and no answers returned
to his questions.
I had hardly given the directions when a carriage drove up,
and I heard Tom s voice directing his coachman to return home,
as he should have no further use for his services that night. Then I
heard ny friend talk half in English and the other portion Spanish,
with an immense amount of laughing, and up stairs he rushed,
leading two young girls, whose black eyes and dark hair would
have captured less susceptible hearts than his own.
"Here we are, old boy," he exclaimed; u just on. time, as I
told you. I ve trotted em out, and now what do you think of
em? hey? Pretty ain t they? Create a sensation in New York
would they? Can t speak a word of English, except to say
Blast you, and they don t know the meaning of it. I learned it
to em as we came along. In a week s time we can make them
swear like pirates, and they won t know what it s all about.
Capital fun it will be won t it?"
The girls, apparently about sixteen years of age, had not the
remotest idea what he was saying ; but as he laughed they felt
bound to do the same, and for a few minutes we had a very merry
time of it.
"I say, don t it do you good to see the girls laugh?" cried
Tom, throwing his arms around one of them in the exuberance
of his joy, and kissing her right heartily, for which he got a lit
tle pat upon his cheek which would not have injured a mosquito.
" You have not introduced me, Tom-," I said, almost envious
of the sport which he was appropriating to himself so readily.
" Don t need one, my boy ; go in and enjoy yourself as well as
you can. Don t you see that I have set the example ? But as
you are one of the scrupulous kind, here goes for their names
OUR COMPANY. 151
This one with the pink piney dress is Catalina, and the one with
the white dress is Margarita. Both are pretty, as you can see
for yourself, and both can scold or sing, as the humor takes them.
Cataliua goes with me to Hong Kong, when I leave this city,
and if you desire, Margarita will remain to bless your lonely
hours."
The girls seemed to be aware that Tom was introducing them,
for they took possession of chairs, and then laughed to such an
extent, that my boy-servant rushed in with a tray of paper cigars,
thinking that where there was so much mirth, smoking would be
of the first importance.
" Now, Tom," I said, as soon as I had made my guests at
home, " where did you get acquainted with these ladies? Let me
have the whole history."
" I ll do that, and no mistake," he replied, lighting a cigar, and
throwing an arm around the waist of Catalina a freedom which
she permitted without the least reluctance. " A week ago I saw
the girls leaving a church, and as I thought they liked my per
sonal appearance, I just followed them to their residence, was
asked in, told to make myself at home ; and faith I did. I had
money, which they wanted ; so no questions have been asked on
either side. They admire me, and I m sure I do them. I told
them to get ready and come to supper, and they are here. You
see they are not of pure blood, but they are just as interesting
as though they were. I only wish I had one in New York,
promenading down Broadway. I ll bet I would make the boys
stare."
" No hdbla Ingles mas" cried Catalina, with a pout of her
pretty lips.
" And we won t, my darling," exclaimed Tom, with overpow
ering tenderness ; " we will speak Spanish if it kills us. What
a sweet language it is, to be sure, when heard issuing from a pair
of pretty lips ! I ve learned more of it in the last week than I
could by studying grammar a twelvemonth, thanks to Catalina s
teaching."
And thus Tom ran on, struggling desperately with his bad
Spanish, and laughing heartily as the girls and myself, when he
committed a bad blunder, which I think he often did on purpose.
"By the way," said Tom, all at once looking serious, "I
met that ol 1 cock of a priest just as I w-as entering the house, and
152 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. .
he looked at me as though I was eloping with some of his lambs*
What is the old fool doing at this hour ot the night, wander
ing around streets and theatres, instead of attending to his flock
arid drinking punch at home?"
" And he stared at me," said Catalina, with a toss of her pretty
head, " as though I had no right to visit the house of a friend and
partake of a supper."
" I will twist his neck," Tom shouted, " if he dares to look at
you again."
" O, no," cried both girls in a breath ; " he is a padre, and
therefore sacred. You must not strike him ; if you do there will
be no chance of your salvation, and we love the Americans, and
want them all to be saved."
" Angelic simplicity ! " exclaimed Tom, with a vigorous laugh ;
44 since you want him unmolested, consider him safe. But
come, Guillermo ; you still look unhappy. Is not this better than
remaining in the house, moping over books and papers, and not
knowing what to do with yourself? "
44 I am quite contented," I replied ; but I must confess I did
not feel so, for I had a foreboding that something was about to
happen, and that the espionage of the priest Juan had much to
do with it. I tried to assume an appearance of guyety that
was forced ; but I could not help it.
" Go, Margarita," said Tom, " and salute our host with a kiss.
If that don t cheer him, nothing will."
The girl hesitated for a moment ; but seeing that I did not forbid
her, she rose, with burning cheeks, and glided across the room.
Then she threw her bare arms around my neck, and pressed her
red lips to mine. From that moment all melancholy fled.
"Will the American love the Mestiza girl?" she whispered,
as she took a seat by my side, and leaned her head upon my
shoulder, while her black eyes were raised to mine as though she
would read my thoughts.
" I will try to do so," I answered, smoothing her soft, luxuriant
hair, and feeling that I was on treacherous ground, if I intended
to preserve my fylelity to Donna Teresa.
" Is it so very hard, then, for you to love me?" she asked, with
a slight pout. *
44 Not hard, for you are very beautiful," I answered ; " bui
you must know that the Americans are reputed to be a cold race.
AN INTERRUPTION. 153
and only love after repeated interviews. You would not have me
assume a passion I did not feel? "
" O, no, ".she murmured, using her eyes with all the skill of a
coquette.; " only try and love me, and I don t fear but you will
succeed."
I felt the truth of her remark, and I knew that I should prove
unworthy the love of Donna Teresa, unless I steeled myself
against such insidious advances. I strove to break away from
her fascinations ; but she knew her power, and exercised it with
the skill of a master ; and had not the muchacho just at that
moment informed us that supper was on the table, I fear that I
should have forgotten myself, and so lost my self-respect and
caution.
" Supper," cried Tom, springing from his seat ; " I m glad to
hear it ain t you, ladies?"
Of course they were ; and when they saw how luxuriantly the
table was spread, they were in raptures ; for be it known, O
reader, that even Spanish beauties are as fond of the products of
the cuisine as American belles after a five hours sleigh-ride.
" Splendid ! " cried Tom, rubbing his hands with satisfaction ;
and we were just about to take seats, when a loud rapping was
heard upon the door of the court-yard.
u Who, in the devil s name, has called at this hour of the
night?" demanded Tom, listening for a repetition of the sounds
which had so startled us.
I could return no answer, for the knocks were as mysterious
to me as spiritual manifestations. My boy looked at me with an
inquiring glance for orders, and at length I made him a sign, and
he disappeared down the broad staircase which led to the court
yard.
u I hope no one is about to interrupt us with our supper, for
we have a very pleasant party already, and additions would only
spoil it," Tom grumbled ; and hardly had he concluded when I
heard a \oice in angry altercation with my servant, which made
my heart quake with terror, and I would have given thousands
to have seen my friend and his two companions spirited through
the window by the old gentleman whose name had been invoked
but a few seconds before. I was caught in a trap, and the only
thing that could save me was tact and assurance.
" SiUnce, for Heaven s sake ! " I pleaded, as Tom was about
154 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
to roar out an oath. " Let us hear how the boy deals with the
visitors."
My friend saw that I was really in earnest, although for what
reason he could not divine ; but he left off grumbling, and be
haved quite peaceably.
" I tell you, senora, Don Guillermo is not at home," cried my
boy, earnestly ; and I heard him try to shut the door, but he could
not succeed.
" Then what is the meaning of so many lights in the house? "
was the inquiry, in tones that made me tremble.
u The servants have a party to-night, senora, during the ab
sence of our master. You will probably find him at the hotel,
playing billiards with the English naval officers," was the reply ;
and I mentally resolved to increase that boy s wages, if his false
hood succeeded.
" Miserable ladrone," was the quick rejoinder, " I know that
your master is within, for I saw him at the window not ten
minutes since. Stand one side, and admit us, or it will be the
worse for you."
" You cannot ^nter," the lad said, with firmness ; and for a
moment I heard a scuffle ; but it was of short duration. The
resistance grew more feeble, and at length ceased ; and I thought
that I could distinguish the chink of gold, which accounted for
the cessation.
Up the broad srteps I heard two persons advancing, and I knew
the sound of their footfalls as well as though I had seen them.
" For God s sake, what is the matter?" demanded Tom, no
ticing my tremor and pallor.
" Open a bottle of champagne, and give me a glass as quick as
possible," I whispered, for I felt the need of spiritual consola
tion when I was about to face and lose one I loved better than
life itself.
Quicker than thought Tom had filled my glass, and I drained
it just as the nocturnal visitors reached the door of the room
where my company was assembled. I looked up, and saw a
lady covered with a heavy black veil, so that not a particle of her
face was visible, and behind her. with gloating eyes, stood the
hateful form of Father Juan, the worst enemy I had in Manila.
Truly had his hour of triumph arrived, as he had prophesied it
would, at the convent of San Pedro, two mouths before, when I
A BAD POSITION. 155
had refused to sanction the scheme for his advancement at my
expense.
" Buenas noches, senores" said the lady, in a voice that was
tremulous with passion. " Perhaps we are intruding upon such
select company. If we are, say so, and we will retire. I have
seen enough to convince me that there is no honesty in the world,
and that a man s word is like a rope of sand."
I could not speak if I had attempted the task ; but Tom was
nat so embarrassed, and answered for me.
" Intrusion, lady ? " he repeated ; " why, you must be a stranger
here, or you would know that everything that wears a petticoat
is welcome in this house. To be sure we ordered supper for four,
but Guillermo s liberality is great, and there s enough for six.
So off with your veil, and sit down with us."
" For God s sake, Tom ! " I pleaded ; but he paid but little at
tention to me.
" His infamy is worse than I expected ; but I thank God "that I
have discovered his wickedness before it is too late," cried the
veiled female, although I thought that I detected something like
a sob with the exclamation.
" Did I not tell you, senora ; " the priest said, advancing a step
forward.
" And I wish that your tongue had been blistered before you
spoke a word of his falsehoods," cried the lady, fiercely.
u Senora, have I deserved this ? " the priest asked, in a humble
tone.
" You have opened my eyes to this man s baseness," she said,
pointing to me ; and I could see the angry glare of her eyes
although covered by a veil ; " and I thank you for it ; but do not
presume too much on that, for perhaps it would have been better
lor both of us if I had remained in ignorance of this night s do
ings."
u I sought to prevent you from giving your hand to this heretic,
for he is unworthy of your love," returned Father Juan, still
maintaining his composure.
" Of that I am the best judge," she replied, so proudly that the
priest did not venture another suggestion.
" Madam," cried Tom, rising with a full glass of champagne,
" we drink to your health, and a speedy reconciliation to the man
156 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
*
you love, for you must love some one ; but I hope I m not the
man."
" Silence, sirrah ! " cried the priest, fiercely ; " you know not
whom you speak to so lightly."
" Hallo, old convent; are you there? Come and sit down by
the side of me, and I ll drink you blind in an hour s time."
" Let us retire from this scene of vice," the priest cried, lay
ing his hand upon the lady s arm ; but she shook him off as though
he had been contamination.
" Guillermo," the veiled lady asked, witji an evident soften
ing of anger, u have you nothing to say before we part never to
meet again ? "
u I have much to say to you," I answered ; " but this is not the
time nor place."
" Then farewell, for I leave the cares of this world, and this
life of anxiety and disappointment, for the seclusion of a convent.
For your uukindness I pardon you. Think of me sometimes, and
I will pray for you."
I could see a gleam of devilish triumph in the eyes of the priest
as he listened to this declaration.
" Let us leave these sinful wretches to their worldly pleasures,"
he said . " For us there are purer joys and better rewards."
She turned to go, but hesitated, as though she would like to
speak a few more words of parting advice.
" Guillermo," she said, u did you ever love me truly and sin
cerely ? "
She threw aside her dark veil as she spoke, as though to give
me a full view of her glorious beauty, and let me contrast it with
the faces of Catalina and Margarita, who, poor girls, had with
drawn to a corner of the room at the first intrusion, and remained
there silent and motionless, fearful of the penance which Father
Juan sometimes inflicted, or caused to be done through his in
fluence.
u By thunder ! " was Tom s roaring exclamation, when he saw
the face of Donna Teresa, " it s the beauty I saw at the theatre.
Who is she in love with, you or me ? "
" Teresa," I said, " I have loved you .for many months, and
do you think that a passion like mine can be extinguished in a
few days? As I loved you months since, so do I love you now,
and never better than at this moment,"
A PLEA. 157
I could see that her heart was changing from its terrible anger
to a feeling more in accordance with woman s nature. The priest
saw it, too, and he grew restive and anxious.
" Let us leave, senora," he whispered, " or we may be sus
pected of partaking in their orgies. We have no time to lose,
for I know that the air is tainted with vice."
Poor Tom had sat in a mist of wonderment from the time that
Teresa had withdrawn her veil ; but at length a light began to
duwn upon his mind. He saw at once that there was a lover s
quarrel between Teresa and myself, and that the priest was at the
bottom of it. His knowledge of Spanish was not extensive, but
he could understand enough to know that Father Juan was en
deavoring to urge the lady to leave the house. before a reconcili<*
tion was effected ; and Tom s generous nature was opposed to any
such arrangement, for the instant he saw that Teresa and my
self had been lovers, and were only separated by a slight mis
understanding, he resolved to forget his half-developed passion
for the lady, and do me all the service in his power. He con
sidered that the most important duty he could perform, just at
that moment, would be to get the priest out of the way ; for he
knew enough of the w,orld to understand that a lover can act his
part to some advantage, if a few moments private conversation is
granted him.
Therefore, when the priest urged a retreat, all of my friend s
New York qualities were brought out in an instant.
u Leave the room, padre ! " he shouted, laying hold of a cham
pagne bottle, and taking aim at Juan s head.
The holy father dodged behind the lady in visible alarm, but
not a step did he stir towards the staircase.
u Gently, Tom," I exclaimed, laying a hand upon his arm,
and restraining his anger. " It won t do to kill priests in
Manila."
u Well, some of them ought to be killed for interfering in love
affairs. But I won t kill the man I ll only maim him a little,
and see how he likes it-"
" Be quiet, or you will spoil the advantage that we have
already gained ; " and Tom sat down, muttering that he could
knock the " old buffer " heels over head at the first round.
Teresa had remained standing, undecided whether to retreat
or still listen to niy*explauatious ; and to my surprise she chose
158 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
to do the latter, and although she still looked indignant, her
anger was not so excessive as when she first surprised us in our
revels.
" What explanation do you wish to make before I leave you
forever ? " she asked, haughtily.
" He can make none," cried the priest, hastily. " Pie has
been caught in the act of committing a sin, which true love
should have warned him against. He is not to be trusted. Let
us leave him."
Once more Tom s hand sought the bottle, and again did the
priest dodge behind Teresa to keep from harm s way ; but I inter
posed and saved the head of the holy father from broken glass.
" Let me talk with you, Teresa," I said, " for a few minutes
alone, and with that confidence which I enjoyed some months
since, when I was happy happy because I believed that I pos
sessed your love, and that I returned it tenfold ; for when did a
day pass that I did not think or dream of you? Was I not al
ways by your side to protect you and console you ? and not until
you grew cold in your affection did I cease to do so. I still love
you most dearly, and always shall ; but it breaks my heart to be
thus suspected by one to whom I have never been untrue."
" That s the talk," muttered Tom ; " pile on the agony, and
she can t withstand it. I couldn t do better myself. Fire another
shot, and she will strike, or I m no judge of women."
" I should think there was little need of explanation with these
two women in the room," Teresa said, bitterly, pointing to Ca-
talina and Margarita.
" An explanation should not be received," muttered the priest,
glancing at Tom as he spoke, and evidently fearful of the effect
of his words. " Let us leave, senora, and then they can recom
mence their carousals without restriction. You swore to cast him
off; now ^remember your oath, and do so at once."
" I swore to forget him," she answered, with dignity, " if he
had ceased to love me. If I thought that he had "
" But he has not, senora," cried Tom, starting up ; u for I as
sure you on my word as an American gentleman, and one who
has resided for many years in New York, the Empire City of the
new world, that I invited these two excellent ladies here this
evening on my own responsibility, and that my friend Guillernio
never saw them before to-night."
TOM S DEMAND. 159
The priest stepped forward to whisper a word in her ear t for
he didn t care about trusting his voice in the hearing of Tom ; but
the latter gentleman was on the alert, and on his first motion the
bottle was raised, and the holy father made a dodge backward.
" Can I believe him ? " she asked, earnestly, her voice trem
bling with emotion.
"" He has told the truth," I answered ; " and under such circum
stances is it too much to ask for a moment s private conversa
tion? Think, Teresa, what I have suffered the past few weeks
by your coldness, and how eager I am to learn why you have
boon so distant. Five minutes is all that I require, and then, if
you wish me to leave you, I will do so with as sorrowful a heart
as ever man carried away from the presence of his mistress."
" He has been the most unhappy man that I ever saw, the past
few weeks," Tom said, thinking he had remained silent long
enough. " He is reduced to a skeleton, and moans in his sleep ;
but for all that, senora, he has always mentioned your name in
his daily prayers, and uttered no complaint. I couldn t see my
best friend dying by inches without doing something to save him ;
so I introduced these two ladies, daughters of highly, respectable
parents, I assure you, to him. I m engaged to one of them, and
the marriage will take place when I m ready, and not before."
The three last words were uttered in English, and with as grave
a face as was ever assumed by a Chinese merchant when about to
make a good bargain.
The cloud passed from Teresa s brow, but she didn t wish to
be convinced too soon.
" I thought you told me that the girls were raafo," she said,
looking at the priest.
" And so they "
Before the priest could finish his expose, Tom had sprung to his
feet, and interrupted him.
" I demand," he said, " that that man leave the room while
this conference is going on. He has no right here, and he is
continually interrupting business. Such a thing would not be
tolerated in New York for a moment. Eve^ the Empire Club
would nick against such a state of things."
" I ana the champion of this lady," the holy father replied.
" Then you are a cursed bad champion, and I m going to van-
160 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
quisli you with a bottle. I ll battle you with a basket of cham
pagn j, and the loser shall pay for it."
Teresa did not understand my friend s meaning, and supposing
that he was hurling a challenge at the priest s head, she became
eager to prevent trouble.
Go, father," she said, " and remain in the street until I call
you ; or you had better return to your eon vent, and I will trust to
the kindness of Guillerrno to see me home."
" Blast me, if things ain t working all right ! " exclaimed Tom,
draining his glass of champagne, and winking at the girls, who
still remained in a corner, to keep quiet, and he would make it
all smooth with them at some future time, not very definitely-
stated .
" I cannot leave you here, daughter, without incurring a great
responsibility. This is not the place for one like you to remain
in, at such an hour of the night. Go with me, and let the senor
call upon you in the morning, at your residence, and there offer
such excuses as he may invent."
For a moment I feared that she would accept this reasonable
proposition.; and if she had, the priest would have brought such
influence to bear, that I should never have had the satisfaction of
speaking with her a second time. For only a moment she hesi
tated, and then her wilful look returned, and the priest was van
quished in a ftght where I had such tremendous odds against me
as two good-looking girls. Had they both been plain and old,
she would not have cared near as much, for a handsome woman
is seldom jealous of homely girls.
" I have said that I would speak with Guillermo, and I will,"
she cried, angrily ; and the padre saw, with rage, that any further
urging on his part would be useless, for he knew that Teresa had
a will of her own, and knew how to use it.
Father Juan cast a look of malignant hatred upon me as he
crept towards the stairs, and his anger was not decreased wheii
he saw that Tom was standing up, and drinking his health with
mock solemnity.
" Good by, old Daddy Longlegs," shouted Tom ; " call again
when you happen this way, say a year or two hence."
" I don t understand you," said the priest, willing to delay his
departure as long as possible, turning to Tom, who had spoken iu
English.
AN INTERVIEW. 161
" No ; I suspect you don t want to understand some wnolesorae
truths ; but I am glad that I ve had the opportunity to tell yoix
what I think about your conduct. A feller like you would be
rode on a rail by the Bowery Boys of New York, if he should
attempt to separate true lovers. Now you may go, and the devil
go with you for company. Cataliua and Margarita, will you c; me
and join me in drinking to the confusion of the holy father?"
The poor girls hung their heads with some show of terror, for
they knew what would be their penance if they insulted the
padre.
Father Juan smiled savagely for a moment ; but when he saw
that the girls had too much respect for his office to insult him, he
turned from them to Donna* Teresa.
* " Do you still insist upon remaining here, senora, with liber
tines and wantons for companions? " he asked.
u I have told you that I think Guillermo entitled to a hearing,
and that he shall have one. The subject needs no further dis
cussion."
" Then I go, senora "
" Well, why in thunder don t you go, and not stand there talk
ing about the matter all night? "
Tom had paid such, repeated attentions to the bottle, that he
began to grow jocose, and perhaps the padre thought quarrel
some ; for the latter, after one more look about the room, stole
quietly down stairs, and in a moment afterwards I heard the boy
let him into the street.
" Teresa," said I, taking her hand, which she as quickly with
drew, " will you now allow me to speak to you alone, and with
the same confidence that I enjoyed a few weeks since? Perhaps
your coldness can be explained and remedied."
She bowed her stately head, and I led her to my sitting-room,
leaving Tom and his young ladies to whisper and talk of love aa
much as they pleased.
" To enable us to understand each other, it is necessary that a
confession should be made," I said, placing chairs so that I could
throw my arms around her waist, if I thought there was a pros
pect of her fainting, or forgiving me.
44 1 am ready to listen to all that you may have to offer," she
replied ; and I saw by her face that she was determined I should
define my position before she was ready to answer my questions.
11
162 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Have -you ceased to love me? " I asked, in tones so sad that k l
knew words would have commanded the unbounded admiration
of my friend Tom.
" No, no," she replied ; " I still love you, Guillermo, but do
yon deserve it?"
Of course I said that I thought I did, and wondered why not.
" Have you been true to me since we exchange^ vows at Santa
Mesa? " she asked.
I thought of her jealous disposition and quick temper, and
therefore boldly answered that she alone possessed my thoughts
night and day.
" Guillermo," she said, laying her hand upon mine, and speak
ing so feelingly that all thoughts of levity vanished from my
heart, " I have been told many disagreeable things respecting your
course of life, and although I tried hard to steel my mind against
the many insinuations, yet still they made an impression ; and per
haps I showed my thoughts too plainly by manifesting a coldness
that I hoped you would endeavor to overcome by explanations.
To my surprise you did not do so, and therefore I felt the more
confirmed in what was told me."
" For which I am to thank the holy Father Juan," I said, bit
terly.
She made no reply to my charge, but sat for a few minutes in
deep meditation. I stole an arm around her waist, and pressed
her gently to my side, and to my great joy she did not resist or
offer any objections.
" Reports were brought to me," she continued, " by people
whom I thought most disinterested. They told me that you were
a spendthrift, a gambler, and a libertine ; but O, worst of all, they
said that you professed a passion that you did not feel, simply for
the purpose of securing my fortune."
" They lied, Teresa ! " I exclaimed, warmly, for with all my
sins I must confess that I loved the lady for herself alone.
" I now begin to see that I was deceived, and acknowledge my
error. Forgive mej Guillermo, as I forgive you."
Her, head was on my shoulder and her lips near at hand. Need
I say that I sealed our reconciliation in a manner that provoked
no angry response, but before I could repeat the operation, Tom,
after knocking at the door, threw it open.
" That old humbug has come back again," cried he.
ANOTHER INTERRUPTION. 163
We listened for a -moment, and sure enough we heard noise
sufficient to answer for a moderate earthquake. The huge gate
which opened on the court-yard was shaken as though all the peo
ple in the house were deaf or dead, and those on the outside were
anxious to break in without a moment s delay.
I was about to step to the window for the purpose of interro
gating the priest in regard to his intentions, when Tom begged
me to desist, and leave the matter entirely to him.
" I know how to treat those kind of fellers," he said.
I readily gave my consent, for I began to fear that the knock
ing would attract some attention, and lead to inquiries which
would not be likely to raise the reputation of Donna Teresa in
the estimation of the thoughtless.
Tom, with an expression of intense delight upon his face, went
to the table, drank a huge glass of champagne, and then made
the girls, ^atalina and Margarita, do the same, after which op
eration he began to look around the room, and at length lighted
upon an earthen jar, that would hold about two pails of water.
This he directed the boy to fill, and then to carry it down stairs.
" Remember, Tom," I said ; " no violence to the* priest. He
is most powerful here in Manila."
" I wouldn t hurt a hair of his head for a thousand dollars,"
my friend answered. " That row, however, must be stopped, and
I m the boy to do it. Peaceably if I can, forcibly if I must, as
some celebrated New Yorker once said ; but when, or where, I
don t know."
With these words Tom went down stairs.
" Why in the devil s name don t you open the door," some one
roared in the street. I thought that I knew the voice, for it didn t
sound like Father Juan s ; but I was somewhat nervous and con
fused, and didn t pay that attention I should have done, had I
been calm, and not beneath the roof with Donna Teresa, and
two ladies whom I wished away.
" All right ! " shouted Tom, in reply, laughing so heartily at
some freak that entered his head, he was compelled to hold on
f *> the boy to support himself.
" You shall be attended to in a minute ; never fear," Tom con
tinued, motioning for the boy to withdraw the bar of the door.
The lad did as he was directed, and just as the bar was raised
I saw Tom grasp the huge stone jar that contained the water.
164 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" What are you going to do ? " I demanded, somewhat alarmed
at his proceedings.
Before he could answer me there was a vigorous push against
the door. It flew open, and a burly form darkened the entrance.
" Watch, O ! watch, and heave ! " Tom shouted, adopting the
language of sailors when about to try the soundings by a deep-
, sea lead.
By a vigorous jerk the water was shot out of the jar and
dashed upon the person of the intruder, covering him from head
to foot.
" Now, old cock," roared Tom, " how do you like the fashion
of rousing people up at this time of night? "
There was an immense amount of blowing, and spluttering, and
grunting ; and at length I could hear a loud laugh, which I should
have recognized in any part of the world.
44 By the Lord Harry, Benventuro*; but this is a reception with
a vengeance. Thank Heaven, you got the worst of it."
" Allen ! " I shouted ; " is that you ? "
* Well, I should think that it was," he replied, with another
laugh, more loud than the first.
" Don t ask if this is me ; may the devil confound you and the
nouse too," cried my old fat friend, Father Benventuro. u Santa
Barbara ! What have I done that I should be treated like a rat ?
What was water ever made for except to drown people in. It
seems as though the whole of the Rio Pasig had been emptied
over me."
" Why, this isn t the old convent cock," cried Tom, completely
sobered by the mistake he had made. " I thought that it was
Father Juan."
" Father Juan be cussed," roared Benventuro. " I look no
more like him than the man in the moon. ^ * If you are a Catho
lic you shall do penance for this." *
" My dear friend," I said, hastening down stairs, and interpos
ing, " this shower-bath was not intended for you, but for your
worst enemy, Father Juan, who has bothered us greatly to-night by
his presence. You will forgive this gentleman, when I tell you
that he has a great respect for you, and that he is the owner of a
dozen bottles of champagne of the green seal."
" Are the bottles in this house ? " demanded the priest, ea
gerly.
FATHER BENVENTUKO. 165
" Yes ; and three of them are already opened, and waiting to
be drank."
" The Lord be praised, for I am as dry inside as I am wet out
side.. Young man, I forgive you, and take back the curse I be
stowed upon your head, although, faith, I hadn t ought to, for tho
showering that you gave me was none of the most pleasant.
Ugh*! I m wet to my skin, and not a change of clothes in the
city."
" Come up stairs and I ll make you comfortable," I said ; and
as ray guests followed me, I asked how it happened that they had
reached Manila at so late an hour.
" Because," cried Father Benventuro, " we thought that you
were dead, or had left the city, for we haven t heard from you for
two weeks. This afternoon I could wait no longer, and after I
had finished a few games of cock-fighting, by which I won a
couple of ounces, the saints be praised for my luck, for my birds
have acted confounded bad lately, I left Santa Mesa for the pur
pose of seeing Allen, and making him accompany me. He did
so, but it was long past dark before we got started, and we had
one or two miserable sinners to talk ^vith after we landed."
" Pretty girls, he means," muttered Allen.
" You are both welcome," I said, once more shaking hands
with them, and introducing Tom in due form, and after another
hearty laugh at the drenching which the priest had received, the
latter s eyes suddenly rested upon Catalina and Margarita.
" May the saints preserve us but what have we here? Two
live women, and handsome at that. What would Donna Teresa
say if she should hear of this? "
" She has already heard of it, and has expressed her disappro
bation," cried Teresa, suddenly making her appearance.
" Donna Teresa ! " exclaimed the priest, in astonishment, hard
ly able to believe the evidence of his senses.
" Donna Teresa ! " re-echoed Allen, grasping a bottle of cham
pagne for support, and in a moment of abstraction, filling his
glass and emptying it at a breath.
"Yes, gentlemen," the lady replied, "I am Donna Teresa, and
came here to-night to show your friend that his duplicity is ex
posed, and that he cannot deceive me with false vows."
" O, d >," muttered the priest, with a furious look at me ;
" you have ruined everything by jour imprudence."
166 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Now you are in for it, sure enough," was the consoling remark
of Allen, handing the priest a glass of wine, and helping himself
at the same time.
The holy father gulped down his wine without a groan, and
its flavor was so good that it restored the equanimity of his tem
per immediately. He did not smile, but he held out his glass for
more of the sparkling beverage, and it was promptly supplied.
" Senora," he said, " I have seen so much of life that I have
resolved not to condemn a man without a hearing. The practice
is a good one, and I recommend all to follow it. No doubt Guil-
lermo can explain a few things, which now look dark, to your
satisfaction. Speak, Guillermo, and put the hearts of your friends
at rest,"
" 1 am but entertaining Senor Baker, and two respectable la
dies of his acquaintance," I replied, bold as brass.
A cloud passed from the fat face of Benventuro, and he seemed
to comprehend the position of affairs immediately.
" Why did you not mention in your letter of invitation that you
were to have ladies for company ? " the priest demanded, turning
to me.
" My letter? " I stammered.
" Yes, sir ; your letter inviting me to supper. Stay ; I have it
here."
He searched his pockets without success.
" Ah, I recollect. I left it at the convent. But it s no matter.
Had it not been for a sick man whom I was called upon to visit,
I should have been here earlier, and this scene would have been
avoided. Senora, banish all jealousy, lor Guillermo is an injured
man, and I believe a pure one."
u What a story ! " muttered Allen, in English, with another at
tack upon the champagne, which Tom joined in most heartily.
u I have already forgiven Guillermo," Teresa said, extending
her hand, which I seized upon with avidity ; " but still I should
like a few bad impressions removed."
The priest s eyes sparkled with joy and champagne. He saw
that his ambitious hopes were still within the bounds of possi
bility, and that there was a prospect of triumphing over his rival,
Father Juan. He paused a moment to recover his composure,
and then exclaimed,
4k Let nie be the peace-maker, and it s lucky that I aui here to
BENVENTURO EXPLAINS. 167
render assistance to those I love, and who love me. Guiller-
mo invited his friend here to supper ; the latter invited his be
trothed and her friend. There is no harm in that, surely ; but
my brother priest, the most suspicious man in the world, and T
will say the best " (perhaps the speaker remembered that ttare
were servants in the house, and that they had ears and tongues),
" thought that something awful was to take place ; therefore he con
sidered that it was his duty to inform your ladyship. That was
both right and proper, and I should have done the same, if I had
known my frtend was likely to forget himself as a gentleman and
a lover. Here are the young girls, who feel hurt at your suspi
cions ; and here is the young gentleman who is .to marry one of
them. Ask him if what I have stated is not correct. I have but
your happiness at heart, and" (the priest glanced towards the ta
ble, and saw that Allen and Tom were imbibing wine at a rapid
rate, and he feared that he would lose his share. He scowled at
them in a frightful manner, and then continued to speak to Donna
Teresa, who was perfectly willing to listen as long as my faults
were being glossed over) u would die to secure it. As long as I
have known Guillermo, I am sure that you alone have possessed
his thoughts."
I felt a slight pressure from the hand which I held, and rejoiced
that the battle was nearly over. I did not approve of the course
which the priest had taken to reinstate me in Teresa s affection ;
but if I had contradicted or interrupted him, I should have lost
his support, and gained a powerful enemy.
" They tell me," said Teresa, gliding across the room to where
Tom sat, " that I have wronged you. I pray you to forgive me,
and believe it was done unintentionally."
Poor Tom, with all his New York experience, was not pre
pared for the apology, so he could only struggle to his feet and
stammer out a few words.
" Don t say a word ..about it, I beg of you," he exclaimed. " 1
am sorry that there s been any misunderstanding, and think that
the best thing you can do is to make it up the way that we do in
York."
As Tom s remarks were made in English, for he was too agi
tated to speak Spanish, it is supposed that the lady was not much
enlightened until an interpretation took place. Teresa smiled
168 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
most sweetly upon the New Yorker, and that simple act almost
turned his brain.
" I understand that one of these ladies is betrothed to you.
Will you present me to her, so that I can explain why I am
here?"
" Why, the fact of it is," Tom stammered. " I think some of
marriage. All men do, you know ; but I have "
" He means, senora," interrupted the priest, " that he has not
yet decided on the day, and that he will let you know when he
has."
Allen hit Tom a powerful kick on his shin, under the table, and
while he was rubbing his foot the priest stepped in and resumed
the conversation.
" Perhaps the lady will be more communicative," Teresa said,
glancing towards the two girls, who evidently wished that they
were some distance from the house. " Let the one who is to
marry this gentleman be presented to me. I should be pleased to
know her."
"Marry me!" echoed Tom, regardless of the priest s secret
signs. " Blast it, we don t do things in that way in York, I can
tell you."
" Will you be silent? " asked Allen, lifting Tom s glass.
44 Silent as you please ; but a fellow can t be married in a mo
ment, you know, even to oblige a friend."
44 There is no occasion, if you will remain quiet for a moment.
Things are working all right. Drink, and pay no attention what
ever to what is passing."
Tom accepted Allen s advice ; but he did it rather reluctantly,
for every few minutes he would mutter, 44 What would the gov
ernor say, if I should carry home a Spanish wife? "
Donna Teresa, who had now assumed one of her most amiable
moods, was about to advance towards Catalina and Margarita,
when the priest interposed.
44 Gently, daughter, gently. Remember that you are a high
born Spanish lady, of wealth and position, and that these girls
have mixed blood in their ^veins. You cannot associate with a
Mestiza, for they are an inferior race. They do not expect it.
On the day of her wedding send her a present, and that will be
a sufficient acknowledgment of your good will."
Teresa stopped and looked at me for advice. I saw that the
ALL SEEENE. 169
words of the priest had roused her Spanish pride, and therefore I
adopted his suggestions.
" You are right, Guillerrao ; but I will no longer embarrass
them with my presence. Let us retire to the next room, so they
can eat their supper with your friends without restraint."
u But what are we to do for something to eat? "- cried the priest,
in the greatest alarm for his inner man.
" Why, we three can sup together in the sitting-room. There
is enough for all, and it shall be divided. Thanks to the hot
climate, the food is as warm as when put upon the table," I
said, hastily ; and before Donna Teresa could offer any serious
objections, the priest had escorted her to the apartment desig
nated.
I explained to Allen and Tom the nature of the bargain, and
then called the servants to carry it into effect, and in an incredi
bly short time the priest had spread his legs beneath the mahoga
ny ; an expression of extreme satisfaction passed over his visage,
which a few glasses of wine helped to improve.
" Guillermo," he said, " let the muchacho open another bottle.
For all the favors we receive in this world, the saints be praised.
While we live life is .worth enjoying. You have both seen trou
ble, and will be better suited to each other for the little afflictions
cast in your path. The saints be praised that you have withstood
persecution. Give me another glass of wine, and the breast of
a chicken, unless the senora wants it."
The lady disclaimed any inclination for the dainty morsel, and
the holy father viewed it with a sigh of satisfaction.
** Another spoonful of the curry, if you please, and a portion
of the calabash. That is sufficient. My feelings have been so
excited this evening, that I have not the slightest appetite ; be
sides, I ate supper at Senor Allen s, and a most bountiful one it
was. Don t let my abstinence, senora, prevent you from picking
a wing, however, for the hour is late, and an empty stomach is
an evil in this climate. The saints be praised, my digestion is
still good."
Teresa felt like myself, and was too busy with her thoughts to
care for the pleasures of the table ; but our abstinence had no ef
fect on the priest. He drank, ate, and talked with a freedom
which only long practice could have enabled him to do.
" Guillermo," asked Teresa, " why didn t you remain in my box
170 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
longer this evening, when you must have known that I visited the
theatre solely for the purpose of seeing you ? "
" Simply because I had no desire to share the pleasure of your
conversation with Captain Francisco, who, I thought, was too at
tentive for a mere acquaintance."
" I have known him for a number of years," she said ; " but
he is only an acquaintance, and not a friend. Of him* you have
no need of a particle of jealousy."
"Jealousy ! " echoed the priest ; " why, jealousy is one of the
best passions in the human heart, because it makes men more
attentive to their wives, and women more constant to their hus
bands. Without jealousy there is no love ; and were I a girl I
would banish from my presence , a lover who could look on un
moved, and see me flirt with every good-looking man who chose
to devote a portion of his time for my entertainment. Yes, se-
nora ; let Guillermo cultivate his jealousy, for tis a plant that
will keep his passion alive, and prevent you pining for his society.
Be jealous, both of you. It may cause a few angry words and
looks, but will also cause many pleasant ones. When you cease
to be jealous, you have reason to fear your love has departed."
" I feared that Guillermo s had gone many weeks since," Te
resa said, in a hesitating tone, and with a blush.
I was about to utter a hundred protestations, to the contrary
when the priest interrupted me.
" You don t half understand his nature," the padre said. " Tin
hearts of the North Americans are not as inflammable as our own ;
but when once the tinder has caught, the fire is not easily extin
guished. It will smoulder for years, but not entirely die out. Guil
lermo loves you now with as much devotion as ever, and will
love you ten years hence equally well. That surely should con
tent you."
41 1 am content," she whispered, laying her hand upon mine,
ad giving me one of her old trusting looks, which set my heart
fluttering like a ship s colors on a gala day.
" Did I not tell you," the priest continued, still addressing Te
resa, " the very last day that you were at the convent, and every
time that I have seen you since, that you must beware of tradu-
cers, who would seek to prejudice your mind against your lover.
Of course I told you so, and my predictions have come true."
A SUDDEN WEDDING. 171
" I could not help feeling as I did," Teresa whispered, still re
taining her hold of my hand.
" Neither could Guillermo. You both felt jealous. That was
natural enough, but you should have asked for an explanation.
Hand me that other bottle of wine, for I feel as thirsty as though
I had said mass, and attended a dozen or more cock-fights."
The boy who was in attendance hastened to comply with the
order, and after the padre had emptied his glass, he again spoke:
" After you are married (here Teresa blushed women al
ways blush when you talk to them of marriage), you must
have more confidence in each other, or the result will be unhappi-
ness. Be true to each other, my children, and the saints will
provide for you."
" You speak," I said, laughing, " as though we were really to
bt, married ; yet I have not heard the first word from Teresa on
that important subject for the past two months."
" And I can safely say that during that period Guillermo has
been equally as silent as myself," Teresa exclaimed.
" Ah, I see, * muttered the priest ; " he has been standing on
his dignity, and for that would sacrifice his happiness and interest,
and the welfare of those connected with him. That won t do.
You love each other dearly, and no reverse of fortune should in
terfere to separate you. I will imagine that I was called upon
to unite you," the priest continued, stepping to the door and
speaking so that those in the other apartment could hear him ; " I
should tell you to kneel before me."
To my surprise Teresa knelt upon the floor, still retaining
my hand as though she desired me to take my place beside
her. I did so, and when I looked up saw Tom, Allen, and the
girls gazing at us from the door with sedate faces. I heard the
padre mutter a hurried prayer in Latin, and then he spoke in
Spanish :
" In the name of God and the holy saints, I, Ben venture, priest
of the convent of St. Pedro, by the power invested in me by the
Archbishop of Manila, do hereby pronounce you, Guillermo ,
and you, Teresa Arturo Engracio, both being of lawful ages, and
free to act, man and wife ; and may the saints have you in their
keeping, and your days be happy."
"Amen I" cried the crowd at the door, with wonderful una
nimity.
172 LIFE. IN THE EAST INDIES.
CHAPTER VII.
A SURPRISED HUSBAND. A COOL PRIEST. AN EXPLANATION.
SCARCELY had the priest concluded the last words of his cere
mony, when I began to suspect the trick which he had played
us, and sprang to ray feet, indign-ant at his duplicity, and
anxious to show my friends that the wedding was not by my con
nivance.
" Priest," I said, " was the ceremony which you just performed
a farce or a reality ? "
" As real as I could make it in the absence of an altar, lights,
and assistants," he answered, quite coolly, extending his hand to
congratulate me.
"And am I really married?" I demanded, my blood boiling,
and my senses in a whirl at the novelty of my situation.
" All the lawyers in the country cannot prove that you are not
married," was the reply.
" Teresa," I exclaimed, throwing myself at ber feet, " I love
you dearly, but I did not suspect that we were to be made the
victims of a trick, or I should have scorned to obtain your hand
in this manner. Will you acquit me of all connivance in the
matter? "
Her hands were before her face, and I could see tears stealing
O
from between her fingers. Gently I removed her hands, and
kissed the tears from her long eyelashes ; and then her head fell
upon my shoulder, and she whispered,
" Perhaps you never desired to marry me, Guillermo."
" May the saints pardon you for that thought, darling," I ex
claimed, beginning to think that the priest had not made such a
great mistake, after all, and that, if the lady was satisSed, there
was but little reason why I should complain.
" And you imagine that you love me just as much new as ever
yon did?" Teresa asked, hesitatingly.
" More than ever, I whispered.
AN OFFER REFUSED. 173
" Then why should we complain, except for the absence of
friends to congratulate us ? "
" Don t be foolish and ruin the best day s work that you ever
saw performed. If you love the lady, be satisfied, for I am sure
that she seems to love you," Allen whispered in English; and
even Torn came forward and offered congratulations for the sur
prise which we had afforded him.
" It was the suddenest thing that I ever saw," Tom cried,
wringing my hand until it ached. <c I don t believe that it could
have been done better even in New York. And what a difference
between this old feller and the other old vinegar cock ! Why,
this one can put a glass of wine out of sight in less than no time,
and it seems to tlo him good. Wine like mine is not thrown
away upon him, for I can tell by the smack of his lips that he
knows what is what."
" Teresa," I said, leading her to a distant part of the room, " I
will not take advantage of the trick which united us, for I love
you too well to see you wronged. I offer you your freedom
again, and never by word or look shall you know from me that
we have been married. This I must do as a man of honor ; and
if you accept of the offer, I shall still cherish the hope of one day
calling you mine, but in the presence of a more brilliant company
than we see to-night."
" Guillermo," she said, laying her hand upon mine, and bring
ing her sweet lips in close proximity to my face, " if I thought
that my happiness was not sure in your keeping, I should repudi
ate the ceremony that has just been performed, and renounce you.
But I know," she continued with all the candor of a Spanish girl,
" that I love you, and that you love me ; and as we expected
to be married some day, I don t feel much grieved at what has
passed. Do you, my husband?"
How could I reply except to fold her in my arms, and to kiss
her again and again, and to vow that I would remain true and
loving until death.
" Well," cried the priest, who had been quieting his conscience
by.repeated attacks upon the * green seal/ " what conclusion have
you come to, senor? Do you intend to introduce us to your wife,
or to Donna Teresa Arturo?"
" My wife, senors," I said, as proud of her beauty and accom
plishments as bridegroom could well be.
174 . LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
I led her forward, blushing and clinging to my arm, happy, yet
embarrassed at the novelty of her situation, and looking so very
beautiful that Tom gave vent to a groan of envy as he surveyed
her features.
" What a sensation she would make in York ! " he exclaimed ;
and then found consolation in the wine ; but his generosity over
powered his envy, and he rushed back and shook my hand, and
bowed to the lady with all the grace of a man of the world.
He was about to leave us, when he suddenly stopped, and
looked around the apartment with ludicrous surprise. Even
the priest released the bottle which he held in his hand, and
listened with pallid face, while my wife clung to me with terror,
and rested her head upon my breast, as though sure of finding
protection within my arms.
There was a roaring sound in the street, and I could hear a
rush as though torrents of water were sweeping by the house ; and
then came a tremendous shock, that nearly threw us to the floor,
while huge pieces of plastering and wood-work fell around us,
barely clearing our heads. The glasses upon the table danced" to
and fro as though enjoying a quadrille or polka. For about
fifteen seconds the commotion continued, during which time not
a word was spoken by those present, although there were many
cries in the street, and a dozen voices in the houses opposite uttered
shrill yells of
" El terremoto ! El terremoto / May the saints preserve us."
" What in the devil s name is el terremoto ?" demanded Tom,
drawing a long breath.
" Earthquake," replied Allen, with admirable composure ; " and
unless we get out of this confounded city, we shall be fifty feet
under water before daylight."
" I ve never seen the operations of "an earthquake," Tom said,
quite coolly, " although I ve run to fires in New York ; and they
ain t slow for fun and destruction. Let s drink to the terremoto^
as you call it, and pray that we shall have another shock."
" You had better pray to Heaven to forgive your sins, for you
may not have an opportunity presently," replied Allen, grimly ;
but Tom was unacquainted with the danger, and therefore
scorned it.
" Let her rip ! " he shouted, cracking the neck of a bottle of
champagne, and drinking the foaming liquor as unconcerned as
THE EARTHQUAKE. 175
though all danger was passed. " I suppose that the earthquake
wants a driuk of this good liquor, but it must gape amazing
quick, or it will all be gone. Who will join me? "
" May the saints forgive me," was the muttered ejaculation
of fhe priest, who seemed to have lost his usual presence of mind
in consequence of the midnight visitor.
Had I been alone, I should not have feared for the result, un
certain as it was ; but I had a wife to save, and I felt that I
would sooner perish than aught should happen to her. I re
membered that once before, when I first made her. acquaintance,
I had saved her life and her husband s also ; but n^w that she
belonged to me, and her warm love was all my own, I felt my
arms strengthened, and my heart, which had first trembled at the
shock, grew firm and resolute, as I held the lady in my arms, and
pressed her to my breast.
" Guillermo, my husband," she exclaimed, in low tones, " save
your own life by instant flight. Do not think of me, for I shall
only encumber your movements. Go while you can, and before
the waters of the bay and river cut off all retreat. One kiss, and
then leave me."
She got a* kiss and a stronger embrace than she ever had re
ceived in her life ; but I scorned her self-sacrificing proposal, and
it s probable that she knew I would, for a glad smile passed over
her face, and she returned kiss for kiss, and her arms grew tighter
around my neck, as though she intended they should remain there,
even if the building fell and crushed us.
" We will be saved together, or perish together," I whispered.
" Well," asked Allen, " what are we to do? Stand and look at
each other, and await another shock, or escape?"
" Escape by all means," I replied.
" That is the first sensible word that you have said this hour,"
was the complimentary response. Of course he had not heard
one half the endearing expressions I had addressed to my wife ;
therefore I didn t consider that he was a judge.
" How shall we go? by banco or carriage? for of course we
must travel to Santa Mesa for safety," Allen asked.
" By carriage, if we can procure one. My horses are in the
stable."
" And my carriage stands at the door," cried Donna Teresa ;
* we can take that."
176 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
^ilen rushed to the window, and looked into the street. The
coachman had taken advantage of the first alarm, and driven off,
although Allen did not seem discouraged at the information.
" We shall have to take your carriage and horses, if we can
get them out in time," he said, mildly.
" Will they go in two,forty ? " asked Tom, who stuck as close to
the table as possible, and who had succeeded in getting Father
Benveuturo to join him ; and the way they were making wine dis
appear would have delighted a wholesale liquor dealer.
Allen sprang to the stairs leadiug to the court-yard, for the
purpose of finding the servants, and giving directions to the coach
man ; but he speedily returned.
." The outer doors are open, and not a servant is to be seen,"
he said.
The cowards had fled at the first intimation of the earthquake,
and cared not whether we perished or survived.
" Save yourself, and leave me," my wife said ; but I stopped
her mouth with a kiss.
".What is to be done? " Allen asked.
" We must harness the animals ourselves," I replied.
" Let me drive ! " exclaimed Tom, suddenly starting from the
table, and spreading his hands as though urging a fast horse at a
killing pace.
" You can help us .if you will," I replied, as I led Teresa
towards the staircase, close upon the heels of Allen.
" You shall have all the help that I can give you," was my
friend s response, grasping the priest by his arm, and accompany
ing him to the stairs ; at the same time he uttered a few en
couraging remarks well calculated to steady the nerves of the
padre.
" If you can t get up a better specimen of an earthquake than
this," said Tom, " I shall call em humbugs, and won t patronize
em again. Why, this feller don t begin to shake as bad as some
western fellers do with the fever and ague, and I don t know
but I would give a Hoosier odds over this last Manila earth
quake. I d like to see one regular cracking feller, just for the
fun of the thing, so I could spin a yarn to the boys in York when
I get home."
The priest paid but little attention to Tom s -jargon, for his
thoughts seemed to be upon his own safety, although, to do him
THE STREETS OF MANILA. 177
justice, he did beg of me to take good care of Teresa, as though
I would not have protected her life at the sacrifice of my own.
When we reached the foot of the steps which led to the court
yard, Tom suddenly recollected that Catalina and Margarita were
not of our party, so he bounded up the steps in search of the
girls, but found, to his disgust, that they had fled at the first shock ;
for they cared more for their lives than they did for Tom s, al
though it was a long time before he could be convinced that such
was the case.
"Them s the women," he muttered, " who said they would die
for me ; and yet, after eating supper and drinking wine, they clear
out without a word of thanks. That s Manila gratitude, I sup
pose. Girls wouldn t serve a feller that way in New York, I
know."
He paused a moment as though overcome with the reflection ;
but just at that moment the bell of St. Pedro Church rang a
mournful peal, and no sooner did the crowds, who were hurrying
through the streets, hear it than a wild yell of fear was uttered
by them, and many, instead of continuing their flight, threw them
selves upon their knefes, and began praying with all the energy
they had left in their bodies.
" We are soon to have another shock," cried Father Benven-
turo ; " save yourselves as well as you can ; but as for me, I must
go forth and succor the maimed and the dying."
He rushed through the doorway and disappeared ; and at that
instant the water from the bay rolled through the street a foot
deep, and loud above its roaring we could hear the shrieks of
children deserted by parents, and wives deserted by husbands.
" This begins to look something like an earthquake," cried
Tom, who was still standing by me on the steps, while I held my
wife in my arms. " If we can only get a few shocks "like the
first, I don t know but I shall feel satisfied. Devilish lucky Ve
got that priest out of the way wasn t it? He would have
taken up all the room in the carriage wi ,h his fat carcass, and I
don t belfeve that he would have prayed enough to pay for his
passage.
" One of you will have to come and lend me a hand with these
horses," cried Allen from the stable, where he had been hard at
work. " They are wild with fright, and it s doubtful if they can
be harnessed."
12
178 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
I was about to consign Teresa to the care of Tom, when the
latter volunteered to go and assist.
" I dou t know that I ever attempted to harness a horse but I
succeeded," he said ; " so I guess I ll give your animals a trial."
He cast one regretful look at his patent-leather boots, and then
waded through the water to the stable, where Allen was at
work.
Again did the bell of St. Pedro peal forth its warning, and
again was there a rush of water through the streets ; and now I
could hear the voices of people in bancos as they sought to escape
by their boats to high land, or where falling buildings would not
crush them to death.
" These blasted horses won t stand still," shouted Tom from the
stable. " They do nothing but snuff at us and kick. Come and
help us."
" Go, my husband," Teresa urged ; " I will remain here until
you return."
I hesitated a moment, and then seated Teresa upon the steps,
and dashed through the water to the stable.
" What kind of cussed horses do you ca"ll these?" asked Tom ;
but hardly had he spoken the words, when the buildings began. to
rock back and forth, the earth to tremble and groan, and the wind
sighed as it swept through the court.
" Let her rip," yelled Tom, releasing the horses, and plunging
into the water.
I heard a scream, and thought that it sounded like Teresa s
voice. For a few minutes I was so mixed up with the horses,
that I could not leave the stable without danger of broken limbs ;
but the instant that I could escape I rushed past Tom and Allen
to the spot where I had left my wife, but she was no longer
there.
The shock of the earthquake had passed away by the time that
I reached the steps, so that I had no longer any fear of being
crushed by falling walls and timbers ; yet when I found that my
wife was absent, I thought for a moment that she had taken refuge
in the house through fright at hearing the earth groan, and the
water dash wildly about the court-yard. I called her by name,
but she returned no answer ; and at length I sprang up the steps
and reached the dining-room. The table still stood there, but
half the dishes which were upon it when \\ e left the revel, were
A MISSING WIFE. 179
scattered about the floor in wild confusion. The lamps alone
remained undisturbed, owing to their peculiar flat shape and
weight.
I glanced hastily around the room in hope of seeing my wife ;
but no such agreeable sight met my eyes, and I passed to the
next apartment, fronting the street. Still I did not find the one I
sought, and I began to have sad fancies respecting -her disappear
ance. My voice trembled as I called her name, but there was no
response. There were but three other rooms in the house, my
bed-chamber and a spare chamber next to it, and the room used
by the servants. For a moment I thought that she might be in
my apartment, and my heart grew light at the idea ; but a mo
ment was sufficient to dispel the illusion. The rooms were not
destined to shelter so much loveliness on that eventful night ; and
sick at heart, and with a feeling that some dreadful calamity had
happened to Teresa, I retraced my steps to the court-yard, where
Allen and Tom were standing, the water dripping from their
clothes, and their whole appearance not very inviting, after their
bath in front of the stable.
44 Where s Donna Teresa?" asked Allen, who saw that I was
in search of some one, and that I was unusually excited.
44 I left her but a moment since to assist you with the horses,
and when I returned she had disappeared. Help me in my search,
for she may still be in the court-yard, half dead with terror," I
replied.
44 You should not have left her for a moment," was the consol
ing respose of Allen ; but although he grumbled at what he con
sidered my carelessness, he nevertheless was alive to my great
loss, and did not waste a moment in joining me in the search.
We procured lights and looked through the court-yard most
thoroughly, and in every building ; but still we found no trace of
the lady, and I began to feel all the despair of a man and a lover
at my loss. I sat down on the steps, and could have shed tears,
but I feared to 4et my companions witness my grief and weak
ness.
44 This is devilish mysterious," Tom said, at length ; 44 and I
began- to think that Manila ain t such a slow place, after all, and
in some respects can equal New York."
I smarted towards the street without any definite plan, but be
fore I could reach the gate Allen had overtaken me.
180 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" What do you propose to do, and where do you think of search
ing at this hour of the night? " he asked.
" I know not ; the saints will direct my steps," I answered.
** I don t believe but "his mind is wandering," I heard Tom
whisper to Allen ; " and I think a good proof of it is shown by
his calling upon the saints. I never heard him mention them
before."
" Hush ! " Allen replied, in the same low tone ; " don t make
sport of his grief, for the poor fellow will suffer enough before he
ever sees his wife again."
" You must not commence the search now, my dear friend, *
Allen continued addressing me in the most soothing manner,
" because the streets are filled with water, and there is not a banco
to be seen. They have all gone up the river with passengers, and
will not return until danger is past."
I saw that it was madness to think of searching through the
dark streets ; but still I was reluctant to yield, and only by Al
len s persuasion did I consent to return to the house, and wait
until the water subsided, and daylight appeared.
The first thing that Tom looked after was the wine, which was
uninjured, while some half dozen bottles still reposed on the bal
cony, wrapped in wet cloths for the purpose of cooling their con
tents. One of the bottles was quickly opened, the broken dishes
pushed one side, and goblets filled to the brim.
" Here," said Tom, handing me a glass of the sparkling bever
age, " is something that will cheer your heart, and make you for
get your great misfortune. Drink, and hope for better days."
I felt so entirely depressed in spirit, that I did not refuse the
invitation, and the wine inspired me with hope and confidence that
all would yet end well.
" I can t say that this resembles a very happy wedding," Tom
continued, " but still I think that things might be worse. For
instance, if the grumbling old earthquake had rattled the house
down about our ears, and buried us twenty feet deep with rub*
bish, our friends wouldn t have known us when a party of Mestiza s
dug us out in the morning, and picked our pockets in the bargain.
Cheer up, old fellow, and have another drink of wine. Al
ways look at the brightest side of human life, cos the other part
is black enough, I expect, to suit the most fastidious lover of the
sombre."
ALLEN VENTURES AN OPINION. 131
Allen and myself remained in deep thought while Tom rattled
off his homilies, and perhaps he imagined that we were compli
menting him for his flow of words, for he talked on every subject
that he thought was, interesting ; nor did he forget to express his
private opinion respecting the conduct of Catalina and Margarita
in .deserting him without saying good night an omission that he
took very much to heart.
" I ve hit it ! " said Allen, suddenly, starting up.
" Hit what?" demanded Tom, in astonishment, looking round
the room for an enemy with a broken head.
" Why, the manner in which Donna Teresa has disappeared."
u Then I should advise you to hit the parties who carried her
off. But let "us hear what you have to say on the subject, and if
one bottle of champagne c#n throw light on the matter, what may
we not expect by the time two are drank ? "
I motioned to Allen to continue his remarks, for I knew his
ability for investigation, and had confidence in his judgment.
" The lady never left those steps willingly," said Allen, after a
pause ; u and to speak candidly, I thought I heard a female scream
while we ^vere busy. with the horses; but I supposed that the
sound came from the street^ and that some woman was calling
upon the saints to save her from a violent death. Screams are so
common during the continuance of a shock, that they excite but
little attention ; but you will never make me believe that Donna
Teresa would have been so alarmed as to forget her husband and
rush into the street, and take refuge on board a passing banco.
There was force used, and quick work they made of it, or I m
much mistaken."
41 But who are the parties who would dare to commit such an
outrage?" I demanded.
" That question time will answer, but at present I cannot. She
may have been kidnapped by Mestizas, anxious for a large re
ward, or her late husband s relatives, fearful that she was about to
bestow her Hand and fortune upon a foreigner and a heretic, or,
worse than all, the holy Father Juan may have had a hand in the
matter, and if he did, our work will be long and arduous before
\ve ever see the light of her handsome face again. Of one thing,
however, we must be careful."
u Well, what is it? " asked Tom, cutting the wire of a cham
pagne bottle.
182 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
Before he had time to reply, we heard a footstep on the stairs.
Not a light, elastic step, like a lady s, but a heavy one, as though
the body which it bore was wearied with toil. Thinking that
some one had arrived with news from my wife, I rushed to the
staircase, and saw Father Benventuro toiling up the steps, his
robes covered with mud and water, and his peculiar-shaped hat
looking as though it had been used for a paddle to guide a banco
through the streets.
" Father Benventuro ! " I exclaimed in astonishment.
" Yes, son, what there is of me a mixture of mud, water,
and a little weak flesh. The saints forgive me, and all here ; but
had I not heard that cork fly from the champagne bottle, I should
have dropped in the court-yard from weariness. You have not
emptied the bottle, I hope. If you have, my curse shall be upon
you."
Tom snatched a full goblet of the wine from the table, and held
it to the padre s mouth. He drained the glass at a breath, and
then sighed because it was empty.
" A thousand thanks," he said. il The curse shall be changed to
a blessing, and prayers for your welfare, provided, of course, you
can find me a bit to eat, and a few more drops of something to
drink."
" Water, of course, you mean/ Allen said, pretending to pour
some of that fluid from a decanter.
" Avaunt, thou scoffer ! " cried the padre, in melodramatic style.
" Look at me and see if I have not had water enough to last me
a lifetime. What was it ever made for except to drown unbe
lievers? and I tell you that one of the faithful came near sharing
a heretic s fate this night."
" Have you seen "
At my emotion the priest looked up astonished.
" You re a smart bridegroom," he said. " Why in the name
of the saints ain t you abed and asleep, as every well-conducted
husband should be, on his wedding night? You didn t let the
shock of a petty earthquake destroy your nuptial happiness? or,
have you and your wife quarrelled so soon ? and did she turn you
out of the room to feast with these revellers ? "
I gave the padre a brief account of the disappearance of Te
resa, and he listened to the recital in breathless astonishment.
" More of that cussed Jesuit s work, he muttered," as I con*
CONSULTATIONS 3
duded ; and then he began to ponder on what had been told
him, his meditations only interrupted by sighs.
u Well," said Allen, " do you intend sitting there like a blessed
old elephant, and do nothing but mumble and groan, and shake
your head as though there was something in it. If you can en
lighten us, do so, for you look as mysterious as a Chinaman in a
Joss house, or a woman possessed of a secret."
" My dear children," Benventuro replied, " I think that I can
account for the disappearance of Donna Teresa in a most satis
factory manner ; for did you not tell rne that the holy Father Juan,
whose devotion to his own interests is unparalleled in the annals
of the church, has hovered around here this night, and even ac
companied the lady to this house for the sake of breaking off a
match that was sure to lessen his influence, and destroy a project
that he has long cherished ? Now, if Father Juan has been here,
and was compelled to leave the premises contrary to his will, you
may rest assured that Father Juan was concerned in the lady s
disappearance."
" Impossible ! " I cried ; " the priest would not have dared com
mit such an outrage."
" My son," replied the padre, with the faintest possible smile
of contempt, " you little know what a Jesuit is capable of doing,
when prompted by malice and a desire for revenge. Father Juan
is a good man, but he sometimes acts hastily."
u If he has dared to lay violent hands upon Teresa," I ex
claimed, " he shall suffer for it most dearly, even if I have to
penetrate the walls of his convent, and tear him from an altar."
" Hear the man ! " cried the priest, w r ith a contemptuous laugh,
which instantly disappeared when he thought how closely we were
bound together. a That is a fair specimen of American bragga
docio, and I suppose, if I was not here to guide and direct you,
that you would butt your head against every stone wall in Manila,
and then cry at the wounds inflicted. It is not the Vay we
people in Manila conduct business, because we have a more sure
and perfect method of accomplishing our ends."
" And pray how is that?" I asked, with a slight sneer, as a
recompense for his smile of contempt.
u You will have to wait for events, that s certain," replied the
padre ; " but I don t counsel idleness. You must work, but in
184 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
secret. Let me have a glass of wine, and I ll explain a little
more fully."
The wine was passed to him, and the good man was careful to
help himself largely, and then to forget to return the bottle.
He continued :
" If you complained to the captain general that you were mar
ried to the richest heiress in the city, and without his consent, it s
quite probable that he would rejoice at the disappearance of the
)ady ; for the. count is jealous of his po\ver, and would fear that
you might take^occasion to remove your wife s wealth from the
island as soon as possible. That, I need not tell you, is a matter
which concerns him deeply. Again, if you should hint that I
performed the ceremony, it s probable that your friend would be
stripped of his robe of office, and pass a few of his days in a place
where a man has to diet or starve. That portion of the pro
gramme I should object to decidedly, because I am not calculated
to live on bread and water, and fresh air and sunshine are so
very pleasant. The only thing that I have to rely upon is the
favor of the archbishop, and he must have weighty reasons for
standing between me and executive wrath. You understand me,
I suppose, for I can t be very explicit, under the circumstances.
We must make the best of the affair, and find out where the lady
is concealed, and then use craft to recover her. This I am con
fident we can do if we are careful, and use our mother wit to ad
vantage. But there must be no outcry and confusion, or our
search will be delayed."
u But why can t we present ourselves at the convent of St. Se
bastian, and demand the lady? " I asked.
" Because she is not there, and indeed we don t know that
Father Juan was concerned in her removal. If he has her,
he has her- safe under lock and key ; but I don t think he would
be likely to take her to the convent. It don t seem to me to be
Jesuitish enough. He is as cunning as a fox, and knows how to
work with but little noise. It s quite probable that he waited near
the house, after he was excluded, watched the whole of your opera
tions, and when he saw that Donna Teresa was left alone, he
hailed a passing banco, and hired the Mestizo to assist him to re
move her as speedily as possible. While the earthquake lasted,
she would be half dead with fright, and be incapable of offering
much resistance. And while 1 am speaking on the subject, I
RETURN OF THE RUNAWAYS. 185
am inclined to think the ver^ banco that brought me here carried
Teresa away ; for the fellows grumbled when I recompensed them
with my blessing, and said that a priest had paid them liberally
for half an hour s work. Men who are incapable of appreciating
my blessing must be bad, and capable of committing any act."
" Then our best plan is to find the banco nien, who brought
you here, and see if your surmises are correct. A bribe will opeu
their mouths, even if Father Juan has ordered them closed. An
ounce of gold possesses rare attractions for a Mestizo," Allen said.
Before there *vvas a chance for further remarks, my cook, look
ing as though he had been ducked in a horse-pond, made his ap
pearance, and close behind him followed my boy.
" The saints be praised," exclaimed the cook ; " our master
and his friends are alive and well. Our prayers were of some
avail."
" Why, you impudent knaves," cried Allen, " do you mean to
say that you stopped running long enough to repeat a prayer for
any one excepting yourself? "
" Si, senor" returned the fellow, with a look that was intended
to be quite convincing ; " we thought of but you and your safety,
and tried to hire a carriage to return to the house, but we could
not offer money enough."
" Now, the truth of the matter is," the priest exclaimed, " these
vagabonds left the house at the first shock, and -they thought of
none but themselves, and I doubt if they stopped running until
they reached the road leading to Santa Mesa. I should discharge
them for lying." .
u In the name of the saints, don t do that," exclaimed the ser
vants in alarm ; " we have been very faithful to our master, and
stolen nothing. The next time that an earthquake occurs, we
will remain in the house until we get permission to leave."
As I knew that the rascals were as honest as they could afford
to be, and remain Mestizos, I told them to stay, and prepare some
strong coffee without delay an order that they obeyed with
alacrity. While this was under way, the priest took me one
side.
" Guillermo," he said, " we have been defeated iu our schemes,
but we shall yet prove a match for the enemy. Owr bargain
holds good, you know ; but owing to the expense which I shall
incur, you couldn t increase your donation to me about five thou
186 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
sand dollars could you ? Of course I don t demand it ; but
think of the dangers I shall be exposed to in working for your
good. Five thousand dollars is not much for one like you, who
will be worth more than a million."
" Find my wife, and you shall have no cause to grumble," I
said, evading the main question ; but the priest seemed satisfied,
and shook my hand with renewed good feeling. I was about to
turn away, when my companion detained me.
" You must go to the residence of Donna Teresa this morning,
and make inquiries regarding her. She has an aunt, you know,
who takes charge of her house and affairs while absent. Ask
the old lady if she has heard of her niece, and pretend that Donna
Teresa disappeared in a mysterious manner ; but don t mention
Father Juan s name on any account, for we know not whom to
trust. Be as unconcerned as possible, and appear as Chough it
was -merely a whim of the lady to be thus absent. You under
stand me? "
I nodded an affirmative answer.
" Then go and take your morning bath while the coffee is pre
paring, and be sure to erase those lines of care which I see upon
your face. Dress gayly, and report to us the result as soon as
possible."
I followed the priest s advice, and by the time I had bathed
and dressed, the coffee was ready, and its strength and exhila
rating qualities were quite acceptable, after the night of agitatiou
and distress which I had undergone.
While Allen, Tom, and the padre threw their forms upon
lounges, for the purpose of obtaining a little repose, I left the
house, and wended my way towards the splendid residence of
Doona Teresa. It was situated upon the left bank of the Pasig,
just above the bridge, and on the Birondo side ; for her husband,
when alive, had an eye to money, and as he was largely engaged
in commerce, he could not carry on his contracts very readily
without free access to his agents at all hours, day and night
For that reason he had built and furnished a house on the trading
side of the city, some distance from the aristocratic part of Manila,
which is surrounded by walls and draw-bridges, and is strongly
fortified. In Manila proper no foreigner can reside, or even
sleep, without permission of the governor^general ; and at eleven
at night up go the draw-bridges, and all communication with the
DONNA TERESA S HOUSE. 187
outer world is cut off until sunrise the next day. Of course such
restrictions would interfere with the avocations of a merchant, and
Don Arturo had wisely turned his back upon the aristocracy for
the sake of adding to his wealth ; and by the act he had not lost
caste, as might have been expected, but had retained his position
up to the time of his death. Much of his influence, however, was
due to his wife, whose pure blood was acknowledged even by the
^titled rulers of the island.
The house of Donna Teresa was surrounded by a high wall,
which also enclosed a garden beautifully laid out with walks and
arbors. All the fruit trees indigenous to the country were to be
found in the garden, bearing their rich .burdens every month in
the year ; and as fast as one variety of fruit was plucked from a
tree, a fresh supply of blossoms would appear, and quickly arrive
at maturity. The mango, one of the most delicious fruits that
grow in the East, was there found in profusion, and in a state of
perfection ; oranges were more famous for quality than their
quantity, and grew to an enormous size, and were the envy of
every gardener in Manila. In fact, the garden was more like a
miniature paradise, in beauty, than any earthly abode ; and so I
used to regard it when I had my Eve, in the person of Donna
Teresa, by my side.
I reached the court-yard leading to Donna Teresa s house. The
old porter was standing at the entrance, smoking his paper cigar
with an air of unconcern that led me to hope the lady was safe
within her castle.
" Good morning, senor," the old man said, raising his hat with
great respect; for I was a favorite of his by virtue of certain
pieces of gold which I had given him at various times, and
therefore he entertained an affection for me because it was for his
interest to do so ; " the saints have you in their keeping."
" Is Donna Teresa at home ? " I asked, with as firm a voice as
possible.
" She is not, senor. She left the house last evening for the
theatre, and has not returned. Neither has her carriage. It is
probable that she drove to her country-seat at the conclusion of
the performance. We have had a wretched night, senor ; I have
had no sleep, and one of my game cocks is dead. By the mass,
I would not have taken two pesos for him."
" Is Senora Raquel at home ? " I asked, meaning Teresa s aunt
: :;
BythesaiBsa^*ns asaneh as I eoaU do to hold her,
- - ----- - - L ------ - > - --. -.--. ^L 5 :-.-.-.-_ _ _-
:_,, ::: I
::: ^"^7^-
*Iaamheve,seaora,* Pedro foaad heart to reply ; bat he didrt
m ray eager to %ee the lady.
: - i-
l r: : - : " r.-.i: :: --
Q MB 2TC kffi^ ar TOai ** d
-I sopoe I _,
ooh- al the Urt mcet. If
yoa eaa *et a ana to talk with, aad fistoa to ywir stories, if s
-- -r- - ----: :--
to tint of tfcegood.
ea
did I aot na to
of times at that, it s
bad I not eafled JOB. ay, aad a
v . , - , ,--
+ A FEMALE SCOLD.
I could not reply, but nodded to Pedro to continue his defence.
The fellow grew more confident, and retorted.
4i Why, senora, when you lay upon your back, and kicked worse
than the new carriage horse, I feared that you would injure or
kill yourself; so I attempted to raise your body from the floor;
but the saints pardon me, it was impossible, for your feet struck
the pit of my stomach ten times in a minute, and knocked the
wind out of my body faster than it could enter. God be praised
that I am alive at the present time."
Why, thou impudent varlet, I have a great desire to turn you
into the street and have you beaten for falsehoods. This comes
from associating with heretics. The saints deliver us ; but no
wonder we have earthquakes and sickness. I ll speak to my
niece of your boldness, and then we will see how you will deport
yourself."
" That is what I have made my appearance so early for," I
said, breaking in upon her volubility. " I desire also to speak
with Donna Teresa."
" Well, so do I, but I can t," the old lady rejoined, rather
tartly.
" She is not at home, then," I said.
" No, she is not at home, and has not been here all night.
There s pretty goings on nowadays. I wonder what Don Ar-
turo would say if he was alive. The poor man is dead and
buried, and happy enough he ought to be when lie thinks of his
blessed condition. I am sure that I sometimes wish I was with
the saints."
Old Pedro took occasion to turn his back, and to exprt-
his face, that he really wished the saints were encumbered with
her..
What women want to run after men for, and heretics at
that, I can t see. You needn t tell me, I ain t blind ; although I
pretend to be sometimes. I can see what s going on as well as
other folks, and let me tell you, I think it s a mean piece of busi-
Having thus emphatically delivered her opinion, she looked
me full in the face to see if I was annihilated ; but finding that I
was not, she prepared for another outburst, but I interrupted
her.
" Pardon me, senora," I said, quite calmly ; t4 but I did not coma
190 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
here to argue with you on subjects of marriage or religion. I
came in search of Donna Teresa."
" And dare you tell me that you don t want her to marry you?"
the old lady exclaimed.
" That question I am not bound to answer," I replied, with per
fect good nature.
" But I know your motives ; and let me tell you that sooner than
marry a Protestant, I d dig my eyes out."
" My dear senora," I asked, " has any one been tampering with
your virgin affections that you are so bitter ? "
" I am told,"senor," cried Pedro, with a malicious grin, " that
thirty years since a gay young Protestant laid siege to the senora s
heart, and captured it, and that both were the envy of the young
people in Manila, for their grace and beauty. It s but three days
since my uncle was speaking of the matter, and wondering wheth
er Senora Raquel could dance the Bolero as gracefully as in
former times."
The change that came over the withered and sour face of the
lady was wonderful to behold. Pedro had awakened recollec
tions of her youthful days, when her heart was sought by the
young and brave, and when a wave of her hand was suffi
cient to drive away or collect a crowd of admirers. There was
truth in the old porter s words. She had loved an American,
thirty years before, and if report spoke not false, he had loved
her most devotedly. He proposed marriage, but she did not care
to listen to the subject from one whose religion she had been
taught to despise. But love was more powerful than prejudice,
and after a long suit the American obtained her solemn promise
that she would consent to a secret union, and that both should
then make efforts to get some priest to solemnize the nuptials, as
well as the American consul, who was willing to do his part.
Before the project was carried out, the American was attacked
with that awful scourge in a warm climate, the small-pox, and
died after a week s sickness. Pie was buried near Santa Mesa,
at the senora s particular request, and regularly once a week for
many years she visited his grave, for her grief was terrible at his
sudden death, and many months elapsed before she made her ap
pearance in society. That, of course, happened long before Te
resa was born, and when her first husband was comparatively a
young man.
A WITHERED BEAUTY. 191
She never married, although she had many brilliant offers
before her beauty began to wither, and her temper grow harsh.
There were times, however, when she liked to talk of her young
days, and express regret for the happiness that she had lost ; and
by Pedro s forethought he had struck the auspicious moment for
opening the fountains of her memory, and altering her humor
to a conciliatory one.
" I am changed, Pedro, I am changed," she said, with a smile ;
" and for many years I have not danced. There was a time when
I could excel the belles of Manila, but that was many years since.
The last ,time that I danced the Bolero was at the governor s
palace, and his excellency was pleased to say that never in Spain
did he see anything to equal it. I was young, then, Pedro ; I
was quite young."
" You speak as though you were old at the present time," I
said, feeling that she expected me to say something agreeable.
* I know of many ladies who do not possess your elastic step and
bright eyes, although they claim to have seen but sixteen summers."
" It s quite probable, senor, for the girls are degenerating every
year ; and even my niece, Teresa, fair as you think her, will not
possess my good looks by the time she s twenty years older.
Beauty withers. Beauty withers. More s the pity."
I had my private opinion on the subject,- but I did not express
it, for I desired the friendship of the lady, and was anxious to
have her assistance in the matter which I had in hand.
" I love young people," Raquel continued, " and love to see
them happy ; but they think that I m cross and obstinate, and take
no pains to secure my good will. They call me an old maid, as
though that was something criminal or laughable, and when I
lose my temper all smile. You have done so frequently," she
added, addressing me ; and I could not deny the soft impeach
ment.
u I will never do it again," I said, most sincerely.
" Then we will be friends henceforth, even if you are a Prot
estant. The saints forgive me ; I never loved but one man, and
he was a foreigner and a heretic."
She extended her thin, wrinkled hand, and I did not disdain to
bend my head and imprint a kiss upon it, and when I looked up
saw that her eyes were filled with tears, and that her face had
lost its austere expression.
192 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
%
14 1 think that you are a good young man," she said, with a
smile ; u and I know that you will make Teresa a nice husband.
She loves you, or she would not torment you as she does, and you
must love her, or I have lost all faith in men s eyes. Let not
your religion stand in each other s way, for toleration will over
come that objection."
" Alas, senora ! you talk to one who does not hesitate to ac
knowledge his love ; but I fear that Teresa is lost to me for
ever."
u How?" demanded the old lady, in astonishment. " Has any
accident happened to her? She was away from- home last night,
but I supposed that she had gone to her country-seat, fearing the
earthquake."
I saw that Pedro was listening with greedy ears to the conver
sation, and I was not disposed to enlighten- him in regard to the
doings of the preceding night. With all the grace of a modern
cavalier, I begged for a few moments private conversation, and
the lady willingly signified her consent. She extended her hand,
and I led her up the broad staircase to the sitting-room where I
had passed so many days in the society of Don Arturo and Te
resa, listless and unambitious of everything except a smile from
the latter.
" You are a stranger to the house," she said, as she motioned
me to a seat, " and I began to fear that we had lost you forever.
A lover s quarrel, I suppose. They frequently happen before
marriage. Be careful that they seldom occur afterwards."
" You said you approved of my passion for your niece," I re
marked, with a close scrutiny of her faee, to see if it was possible
for her to put on a semblance of friendship that she did not feel.
I remembered the warning that Father Benventuro had given me,
and determined to be cautious.
" I will answer you frankly," she returned, " my feelings have
undergone a great change within a few weeks, and I no longer
look upon you as a fortune-hunter. Marry my niece by all means,
and I think that much happiness will spring from the union."
I could but bow to the compliment. She looked nonest and
sincere, and I determined to trust her. Before I could touch
upon the subject nearest my heart, the senora continued,
" Thirty years since I was engaged to be married to a country
man of yours, and a Protestant. He was a noble-looking man,
A CONFESSION. 193
handsome, and generous to a fault, so there is but little cause to
wouder why I loved him dearly, and that he loved me. "SVe
should have been married in spite of the prejudices of friends,
had he not sickened and died. Our plans were well laid, and
Father Juan, w ho was then poor and in want of money, agreed
to perform the ceremony for a certain consideration. This fact
has bound me to the father for many years, even knowing, as I do,
that he is not favorably disposed towards you, for reasons that
are purely mercenary and selfish. He is powerless, however, for
Teresa is wilful, and will have her own way."
I no longer hesitated to reveal to Donna Raquel the proceedings
of the night, even to the visit of the strange ladies, although I
took good care to say that they were friends of Tom, and in no
way connected with me. I told her of the marriage by Father
Benventuro, of the earthquake, and the disappearance, and then
I pictured my unhappiness and anxiety. The old lady heard me
without interruption, although she did manifest some surprise
when I alluded to the matrimonial part of the story ; but I
thought that she rather approved of it than otherwise, as it re
minded her of the adventurous days of her youth.
"You are really married, then, the saints be praised? "she
asked.
" Father Benventuro tells me so, although I have no cause to
rejoice thereat, for the little that I have seen of married life has
been" far from pleasant."
44 Poor child ! " the old lady said, soothingly, " I hope that there
are better days in store for you, and that the great happiness which
you so much desire- may-soon be within your reach. I should
have .preferred a priest a little different from Benventuro s princi
ples, for he is reputed unscrupulous and cunning, and I was never
wholly satisfied^ with the investigation of Don Arturo s death,
which occurred at his convent of San Pedro. Still, as I know
that- he hates Father Juan, and that Father Juan detests him, he
may have lent you his assistance out of spite. Time will reveal
the workings of their hearts ; but I tell you, sincerely, that neither
of them is as pure in mind aud principle as I hope you are."
Of course I could only blush and murmur some indistinct ex
pressions, which were not noticed.
" !Now, in this matter I intend to stand your friend, for, the
saints be praised, I have still a feeling at my heart that warms at
194 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
the sight of youth and domestic happiness. But my opinions I
must keep to myself, for we must meet craft by craft, and if Fa
ther Juan has Teresa in his power, we must discover her place of
residence by stratagem, for we cannot obtain it by force or kind
ness. I shall have to pretend for him sentiments of friendship that
I do not feel, for I now know what his plans are and his expecta
tions. My poor niece is not fit for a convent, for she is impul
sive and headstrong, and would soon break her heart fretting for
liberty. Poor child ! poor child ! I wish that I was able to see
her before me now."
The old lady was so deeply affected, that she- was obliged to
call a servant to bring a glass of cordial, which she was very
fond of, and which she contended was a certain specific against
the jungle fever. Of course I was compelled to join her, and
praise the liquor, as it really deserved to be ; and by such a course
did not lose ground in her heart.
" Father Juan loves this cordial dearly, and always asks for a
glass if we forget our usual hospitality. I shall see him before
many hours, and perhaps by the influence of the wine his heart
may expand sufficiently to enlighten me in relation to his secrets.
I have no doubt in my mind that he has Teresa in his power ; but
I fear that he won t be ready to acknowledge it. We must hope
for the best, however, and keep him in ignorance o/ the marriage.
Now go, and the saints be with you. Call and see me to-morrow,
in the evening if possible, and report progress. Keep your stout
heart pure and strong, and God will aid you."
She extended her thin, wrinkled hand, and I kissed it, and left
the house as heavy hearted as when I entered. Even Pedro, the
Dorter, seemed to pay me more respect on account of the grief
which he could not help noticing upon my face; and as he re
moved his hat, he hoped the saints would shower any quantity
of blessings upon my head, give me long life and perfect health
for the four-real piece which I tossed him. A piece of silver is a
cheap way of obtaining blessings, and I wondered sometimes if
the Mestiza s prayers, which seemed so sincere, were ever heard.
There was one place which I still desired to visit, and yet I
dreaded to do so. It was the Morgue house of Manila, that com
mon recep tacle, where Catholic and Protestaut, Mestizo and China
man, soldier and sailor, were conveyed to await recognition in.
case of sudden or violent death in the stieets, or at the numerous
THE MORGUE OF MANILA. 195
drinking houses, .where sometimes bloody fights occurred, and
which only terminated by the arrival of armed soldiers, the police
*of the city.
The house of the dead was usually the scene of considerable
excitement after an earthquake, as those who had lost friends
were always fearful of the worst, and rushed in crowds towards
it, for the purpose of satisfying their fears, and sometimes hopes.
The building was situated near the cigar factory, and was not a
substantial brick or stone house, but built of bamboo, one story
high, and thatched with leaves like common huts.
To this melancholy place I determined to go, for the purpose
of being assured that my wife s body was not there ; for I still
had a fear that she might have been drowned while attempt
ing to escape, and while bewildered at the earthquake. The dis
tance was not great ; sjo I determined to walk to the house and
not call a carriage, many of which stood in the street waiting for
fares, while their drivers or postilions smoked or slept upon the
boxes.
I found the house of the dead, as I expected, surrounded by an
excited crowd of people, males and females, children and old
men, and all kept at a distance from the place by a line of bayo
nets, which .sometimes were made to prick the flesh if the excited
rabble- pressed forward too rapidly, or were not respectful to their
masters. Only a few people at a time were allowed within the
enclosure, and even these were closely questioned by a fierce-
looking orderly sergeant, before permission was granted, for the
man knew Uiat two thirds of those present were attracted to the
spot by mere curiosity, and that to get sight of the dead they would
lie, and even steal, if the latter crime was necessary.
For a few minutes I remained standing in front of the men,
almost determined not to enter, yet anxious to satisfy myself that
Teresa was not there. I saw a few Mestizas pass in and out with
the most stoical indifference, so it was fmpossible to tell by their
looks whether they had lost a relative or an enemy.
"I beg your pardon, senor," said the sergeant, touching his
cap, " for disturbing your reflections ; but if you fear to enter
alone, and see the dead, I will go with you."
The man supposed that I was timid, and that the sight of death
Would alarm me.
196 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
* Has the genor lost a friend? " he asked, before I could con
vince him that I was not so timid as he supposed me.
44 I have," I replied.
" Was it a male or female ? " he demanded.
" A lady," I answered.
" There are several Mestiza girls in the house, but only one that
was handsome and worthy to be a cavalier s companion. Will
you go with me, and see the corpse ? "
I consented to do so, when the soldier rapped the shins and
backs of half a dozen natives who stood in his way and didn t
move quick enough, and entered the building. The fellow sup
posed that I was looking for the remains of a mistress, who was
killed during the earthquake, and the circumstance of a Euro
pean living with a Mestiza girl was too common to excite com
ment or particular notice. In fact, most foreigners who reside
there form a liaison with native women, and they preside over
the household as though regularly married. There are a. few ex
ceptions to the rule, to be sure j but humanity shows itself in
the East Indies as well as in the Atlantic cities.
" Here is a fellow," said the sergeant, touching, with his rattan,
a body, " who got jammed in between two canoes, and so died.
His body floated to the shore, and was landed in a court-yard.
Examine him, and you will see that his ribs are bruised and his
back broken."
I declined the office, and the soldier passed on.
" There is the Mestiza girl that I spoke to ypu about. She was
found drowned in the court-yard of an English mercl*int s house.
She lived with him as his mistress for one year, and proud enough
she was of her position. It s a little singular that she should have
drowned in two feet of water, for I have seen her swim like a
deer ; and many a time has she crossed the Pasig with a strong
current running down stream, sufficient to tax, the arms of a stout
boatman to make headway in his banco. I wonder if the arrival
of the Englishman s wife had anything to do with the girl s
death."
We passed the lifeless form of the girl, and then took a quick
survey of the remaining bodies ; but Teresa was not there, and
I turned to depart.
The sergeant touched his cap, and was about to move away,
When I slipped a dollar into, his hand, which called forth expres-
LET THE DEAD BURY THE DEAD. 197
sions of good will, so that he accompanied me to the entrance
of the square.
I turned to leave the spot, when a Mestiza girl, not more than
fifteen years of age, appeared as though desirous of speaking
to me.
" What do you desire?" I asked, calling the girl to me; the
more readily, I believe, because she was remarkable for her good
looks, and fine, plump form.
" Has the senor visited the house of the dead?" she asked.
I replied in the affirmative.
" I have waited here all the morning, senor, for the purpose
of visiting the Morgue, to see if my sister was there ; but the
crowd is so great, and the soldiers so cross, that I can t get in.
W^ll the senor tell me if there is a girl there who resembled me,
when living? "
I compared the features of tike Mestiza with the Englishman s
late mistress, and was compelled to confess that there was a strong
resemblance between them.
" There is no doubt but it is Sara," she. said, after I had given
her the information. " I was told that her body was there, but
I wished to be certain. The saints be praised ; she will have
Christian burial."
I started towards my house; but. to my surprise the girl con
tinued to walk by my side, as though she had no thoughts of
parting company so soon.
" Why do you not return to the house of the dead, and claim
the body of your sister? " I inquired.
" Why should I?" she asked, with a look of surprise ; " the
priests will see that she has Christian burial, and what more could
I ask?"
" Have you no money to pay for burial? " I asked.
" No, senor, not a medio."
" But where are your parents? "
" My mother is dead, and my father is a bancario. I seldom
see him, senor, for he spends his time upon the water and in the
wine shops," she answered, with charming simplicity.
" Suppose I should give you money to bury the body of your
sister would you do so? "
" Of what use would it be, senor? The prie sts will attend to
her, and give her the benefit of their prayers."
198 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Your sister did not live at home ? " I said, finding that the girl
was determined to walk by ray side through the streets.
" No, senor," she answered, without the least confusion ; " she
lived with a rich merchant, who gave my father ten dollars for
her two years since. She had many dresses, plenty to eat, and
smoked nice paper cigars. She was very happy at her good
fortune in attracting the attention of the Ingles. I hope that the
saints will permit me to be as successful."
Here was a confession with a vengeance, and made to a young
man supposed to be susceptible to female influences. But I
thought of my lost wife, and determined to resist temptation for
her sake.
41 Do you mean that you would be willing to live with a for
eigner, in case he should ask you?" I demanded.
" Why not, senor? The girls are petted and well dressed,
and don t have to work for a little rice and a few plantains for
food. If we should marry we w T ould be ill treated, and have to
support our husbands by washing from morning till night on the
banks of the river. Besides, I like the Ingles they are brave
and rich." *
I saw that, like her more refined sisters of other climes, she
was willing to sell all for gold ; and there were plenty of for
eigners in Manila who would not have scrupled to accept the
barter," but I did not know how I could prevent it.
" Don t the priests reprove you for having such thoughts?" I
asked.
u I don t know, senor, because I never confessed my thoughts
to them. I only tell them just as little as possible, so that I shan t
get a severe penance. When my sister w r ent to the merchant s
house, she gave the priest a dollar, and he pardoned her for the
wrong she had done. - Couldn t I do the same ? "
I returned no answer, but walked by her side in silence, think
ing of her strong desire to lead a life of shame, and wondering
if I could not save her.
" Senor," she said, looking timidly in my face, " don t you
want me ? "
I sliQok my head in the negative.
" I am so sorry," she answered with a sigh ; " I have no home,
arid no one to care for me. If you will give me shelter I will
love you dearly."
A NEW SERVANT. 199
" But I am married," I replied.
" Then let me wash your clothes and mend them, or I will
embroider your shirts and make new ones, for I have done such
things. If you don t like me, I will leave any time that you de
sire. Besides I can help your wife dress, and take care of the
children."
" But my wife is away now, and I have no children."
" But she will return, and the saints will bless her with a littb
one."
Theie was no withstanding the appeal. She had touched me
with a random shot, and I was compelled to surrender without a
struggle.
" You may go home with me," I said, " and stay there until
my wife returns ; but remember, I shall keep a strict watch over
you, atod if I see any signs of wickedness I shall send you away.
Your duties will be light, and I shall pay you a certain sum per
week for attending to them. But you must understand me that
you are to occupy one part of the house at night, while I occupy
another."
She readily agreed to the proposition, and I thought, as she
walked by my side, what an acquisition she would *be to Teresa s
household, if I cou.ld preserve her purity and good looks until my
wife s return. At any rate, it was worth something to take her
from the reach of the tempters who thronged the city, and were
ever ready to pounce upon the young and thoughtless ; and I knew
that Teresa would thank me for it, after she fully understood my
motives.
I reached the house about eleven o clock in the forenoon, just
in time for breakfast, which was all ready for me. Father Beu-
venturo had made his toilet, and put on his robes, cleared of their
ttains by my servants, who had laboretl while the padre slept,
while Allen and Tom both looked the better for a change of cloth
ing, which the latter had supplied by sending to his hotel during
my absence.
" We have been waiting nearly an hour for you," cried the
priest, as soon as he saw us coming up the stairway ; " I m half
starved, for I ve eaten nothing of any consequence since yester
day."
At this instant Gracia, the new servant, made, her appearance,
and was saluted with a roar of astonishment from the graceless
scamps. .
200 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
V,
" Here s a model husband for you ! He starts to look for
his wife, and not finding her, brings home a substitute. And
faith, she isn t bad looking, either, for a Mestiza. Come here and
kiss me."
The girl looked at me and then at the priest, as though un
certain how to act.
u Do you wish to salute the holy father? " I asked.
" No, senor ; I had rather kiss you. He is too fat."
" He has trained her well for so short a time," Benventuro
said. " Who would have thought that he was such a sly young
dog? Where did you pick her up? What did you pay for her?"
and other questions, were propounded, until I thought that it was
about time to relieve their minds.
u Gentlemen," I said, u this girl I have taken to my house for
the purpose of preserving her purity, and because she is friend
less and homeless. I know your thoughts, and believe me, they
are ill-founded. The respect and love which I entertain for my
wife will enable me to be a safe guardian to this girl."
" O, gammon ! that s all wasted on us," was Tom s exclama
tion ; and as I knew that any assertion of mine would be regarded
with suspicion, in case I was too eager to refute all that was
hinted at, I said no more to the company, but ealled my boy, and
gave him directions to prepare Gracia a room, and to look to/her
for assistance in taking care of the house, not only during my ab
sence, but while I was at home.
The orders rather astonished my friends, and they began to
comprehend me, although they often wondered how a man could
remain pure in a country where immorality is not regarded as u
crime, and where wife and mistress often reside under the same
roof, and fathers barter for a daughter s virtue.
" Gentlemen," I said, " if you have finished your interroga
tions, we will eat breakfast."
" We have not a word to say in opposition to that project," said
the priest, delighted at the sight of the well-loaded table, my cook
having done his best. " For these blessings," cried the padre,
as he tucked a napkin under his chin, " let us be thankful, and
wish for more. Amen. May the saints give us good appetites
and strong digestion. Hand me the bottle, for I am parched
with thirst."
The bottle was passed without delay, and the holy father was
UP THE RIVER 201
then in his element. He forget all earthly care while feeding,
and nothing but an earthquake could have shaken him from the
table.
But all pleasures must terminate, and at length the priest was
compelled to lean back in his chair, and acknowledged that even
his stomach was incapable of receiving more solids ; but for liquids
he professed himself competent to drink all night, if any one was
disposed to keep him company.
" You talk of drinking all day and night, and yet yon know
that we have an engagement at San Pedro Macati, to witness a
cock-fight to-morrow," said Allen, who was disposed to be light
with the bottle.
u Ah, curse it ! I forgot that," was the rather irreverent re
sponse ; * I have two ounces bet upon my favorite cock, and if I
should lose, I ll curse the whole Mestizo race. I have lost all the
revenue of the convent the past two weeks, and unless I win, the
nuns will have to suck "their fingers for nourishment, for food
they ll not get from me."
" Then it is necessary that you should keep sober, for you are
a reckless better after .dinner," Allen said. " Come, my banco
is at the landing by this time, waiting to carry us to Santa Mesa.
I invite all present to go with me, and promise that you shall have
a good dinner, and a bottle of excellent wine."
" Hurrah ! " cried the priest ; " that last consideration is en
titled to much weight ; I go with Senor Allen, and will never
leave him until his wine turns sour, or he becomes a good Cath
olic."
" I go with you ! " cried Tom.
" And you, Guillermo? "
u Alas ! I must remain, and search for my w-ife. I am in no
mood for revels, and should mar your enjoyment."
" Nonsense ! " cried the priest ; " you do no good here, and
might do much harm. Go with us, and I ll see that your interests
are looked after while absent."
* Perhaps the Mestiza girl might object," suggested Tom, with
a wink.
" O, if he prefers her society to ours, we have nothing to say,"
they shouted in chorus.
I could no longer refuse, for if I had remained at home, a bad
interpretation of my conduct would have ensued. So, for the sake
202 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
i,
of my reputation and that of the* young and handsome girl whose
protector I had suddenly become, I was obliged to leave the city
withiny guests. Not every one would have acted as I did ; but
a pure conscience is now my reward.
The resolution, which I had formed for the purpose of leaving
Manila for a few days, cost me a bitter pang ; for I thought that
the time could be much more usefully employed in searching for
my wife. The assurances of the priest and Allen that it was
useless for me to stir in the matter at present, as I was doubtless
surrounded by spies who would report to Father Juan and his
satellites every movement that I made, at length had the effect of
restoring me to a feeling of composure which I had not enjoyed
for some time. I hastily put a few articles that I should need
into a carpet-bag, locked up my private room, and was giving
instructions to the boy regarding his conduct during my absence,
when Grracia interposed.
" Will the senor be gone long? " she asked, with every appear
ance of sorrow at my contemplated absen ce.
" I shall return to the city to-morrow night, but only for a few
hours," I replied.
" I shall be very unhappy during your absence," she said ; and
her words produced a skout from the priest and Tom which
amazed me exceedingly.
" By the saints," muttered the priest, " it s quite refreshing to
hear such innocence and simplicity in these sejfish days. Bring
her along, Guillermo, if you think that she can t survive your loss
for a few days."
" My dear child," I said, regardless of the shouts of my com
panions, " I did .not bring you here for the purpose of winning
your love ; so you must not mention such a subject in future."
Stay here in the house and conduct yourself in a proper nanuer,
and you are sure of my protection as long as you do so. If you
want work while I am absent from the house, the boy will show
you what to do."
She held down her head, and I thought that she only restrained
herself from weeping by a violent effort.
" Unless I had seen the exhibition with my own eyes, I would
not have believed it. Hereafter I am astonished at nothing. An
American, twenty-three years of age, refuses the advances of a
WINE AND CONTENTMENT. 203
Jamsel of fifteen. Senors, we must drink a glass of wine m honor
of the miracle ! " shouted the priest.
The wretches solemnly pledged each other, and even had the
impudence to ask me to join them.
".Come," cried Allen, " let us hurry to the river, or Guillermo
will alter his opinion, and then there will no Longer be a miracle.
Come, gentlemen, it s time we were on board."
We left the house in a body, and reached the banco by three
o clock, just the hour when the sun pours down the hardest, and
the principal portion of the inhabitants are taking their siesta,
preparatory to a good dinner, and a life of enjoyment iif the
evening.
The banco was large and comfortable, and while we settled our
forms upon the mats which lined the bottom of the boat, while wet
ones screened us overhead from the fierce rays of the sun, Allen
passed around his cigar-case, and ordered his crew to shove off
and commence the slow ascent of the stream, against a strong
current.
" This," cried the padre, producing a bottle of wine from a
pocket of his robes, and exhaling a mouthful of smoke, " is what
I call comfort. - Show me a finer scene than the one we are
gazing at. Here is commerce, which brings us wealth ; here is
industry, which brings us prosperity ; here is religion, which
briugs us happiness (pointing to the numerous churches to be
Been on both sides of the river) ; and here is the juice of the grape,
which brings us contentment."
He reached his hand out to touch the bottle, but it eluded his
grasp. He turned his head a little to look for it, and saw that
Allen had raised it to his mouth, and was making sad havoc with
its contents.
" Avast, Satan ! " shouted Benventuro ; " I took that from the
table for my own especial benefit, to cheer me on my way, and
to sustain me in case of sickness or shipwreck. Wretch, you
will be cursed in this world and the next for thus trifling with
the church."
" Now, by St. Peter, but you shall n^t have a single drop of
the wine until you give me your blessing ! " cried Allen, making
a motion as though to pass it to Tom.
"Heretic! why will you thus torment one of the faithful?
204 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v,
There is but a pint within the flask, and what is a pint compared
to my appetite ? "
44 The blessing, or none," repeated Allen.
" You shall have it, my child may the devil confound you ; "
and with this rather equivocal assurance, the bottle was handed
to the priest, who clutched it with pretended eagerness, and stowed
it away under his robe. u Not a sup shall one of you have from,
. this, to pay you for the unpardonable crime of stealing from the
church. Thirst, sinners, or else drink river water."
44 We shall do neither, holy father. Antonio, pass the basket."
One of the crew, a young fellow with a ready smile, stopped
his rowing, and from the bows passed aft a basket filled with half
a dozen bottles of choice claret. The eyes of the priest brightened,
and he made a sudden movement that was the means of produ
cing his flask from beneath his robe.
" I will share with you, my children," he said ; " no man
should be selfish to friends, or even to his fellow-man. I con
tribute what I have to the common stock."
" You see, most holy father, that I was more thoughtful than
you," Allen exclaimed ; " I told the men, when they came after
me, to put a few bottles of wine in the boat, for I suspected that
I should have company. Now, not a drop do you get, unless you
spin us a yarn while we are on our way to Santa Mesa."
44 Is that your firm resolution?" demanded the padre.
44 Unalterable as destiny," was the reply.
44 But you will allow me a drop before I begin? "
4 Not a drop until the yarn is commenced."
44 Will you have a serious or mirthful story? "
44 Mirthful, if possible ; for, see, Guillermo looks as though he
had lost his friends in addition to his wife."
The holy father refreshed his mouth with a long pull at his
private bottle, and then commenced :
" Were either of you ever in Cadiz, a seaport city in Spain?
You were not. Then I shall not tell you what beautiful women
are there, nor what excellent wine can be obtained for two reals
two articles which sheuld always be taken into consideration,
when a permanent residence is thought of by a gentleman of means
and leisure. I was born in Cadiz, and in that city I first obtained
my ideas of religion and pleasure. It was there I spent my boyish
THE PRIEST S STORY. 205
days ; it was there I learned to love or hate, as suited my notions
of independence or passion.
" When I was fifteen, I was sent to the college ofr St. Salvador
for an education, and for the purpose of being, initiated in the
secrets of priesthood. It was a Jesuit college, and in its days of
pride was rich ; but the French, may the saints confound them,
during the Peninsular war, nearly ruined its resources, and crip
pled its usefulness in more ways than one..
" I was no more fit to become a priest than my friend .Allen,
here, who would require years of probation before he could con
fess a person in a manner not to scandalize the church. But my
parents were firm believers in my wonderful talents, and always
prophesied that I would die a bishop, or something higher what
the higher meant I am unable to say. Perhaps they imagined
that, as I was rather a desperate young fellow, the gallows would
ultimately fall in my way. The saints forbid that such a death
should happen to jne, for I know of a dozen more deserving than
myself of the honor. Of course I except all in the banco but the
crew, and I don t care what becomes of them.
" For the first few days of my imprisonment in the college
for I thought that I might as well be in a dungeon I passed
my time lonely enough. I could look from the grated windows,
and see trfe crowds of ladies and gentlemen passing, on horseback
and in their carriages ; and I thought a seat by the side of a
pretty senorita, or on the back of a spirited animal, a much more
pleasant place than pondering over dry books and listening to
musty precepts.
" Leave of absence was only granted us once in three mouths,
and then we were compelled to see our parents in the presence of
a priest, who listened to what we said, and reported the unfavor
able words that we used, if we were imprudent enough to do so.
Then followed punishment in the shape of bread and water, a hard
bed, and frequent application of the rod to shoulders which were
tender and unused to .severity.
" All of this galled my spirit ; but of what use were my com
plaints? They were unheeded by the superior, a stern man,
accustomed to bend men s minds to his own mould, and who
looked upon us boys as fitting instruments to experiment with.
I would have run away, but I knew that I should be brought
back and punished with terrible severity ; so I concluded to make
206 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
the best of my situation, and repay myself for the privations when
I took orders and emerged from my seclusion."
" And faithfully have you kept your word," interrupted Allen,
passing a bottle of claret for the purpose of refreshing his stomach,
and stimulating the paMre during the -recital of his story.
The priest smiled, and continued :
" While I was pondering on the subject of my captivity, one
day, a student, about my own age, named Antonio, accosted
me as. follows.
" Benventuro, he said, c you are thinking of the world and
its follies ; its wine shops and its flirting women ; its Vanities
and its pleasures. Give up such thoughts, and consider how you
can obtain the order of sanctity/
" . It s an order that suits me not, I replied. I had much rather
be a sinner than a saint/
" I m fearful that you were not intended for the church.,
Antonio said, with a sigh, casting his eyes upon the floor of the
chapel where we stood, waiting the arrival of a priest to give us
instructions in prayers.
" I have been of the same opinion for many months/ I an
swered ; but I dare not hint as much to the superior/
" In that you show your sense, for the holy father is a man
of few words, and has no patience with youth who cling to recol
lections of the flesh. But, after all, of what use would a free
communication with the world be to us, when we have not a peso
we can call our own ?
" In that you are mistaken, I replied, sinking my voice and
speaking in a whisper : u when I left my home my parents gave
me twelve doubloons, and requested the amount to be expended
in prayers for my success in the world. I have the money in a
belt around my body, and shall keep it there until I can find a
priest willing to pray for my restoration to life and its pleasures/
" My companion s face assumed a look that betokened great
interest.
" Would you like to expend the money? he demanded.
" Yes, but not for charity or religion, I replied ; I have
enough of both, every day, to last me a lifetime*/
u Bah ! he answered ; I don t mean that the money should
be given to these spying priests, or the cold-blooded superior.
What say you to a glorious spree in tie city, where we can revel
THE PRIEST S STORY. 207
in wine, and flirt with handsome women dance at thei*masked
balls, and drive jealous husbands crazy?
" * Can this be done? I demanded, in astonishment.
" c To be sure it can, and a glorious time we can have of it,
if we are only cautious, and,, keep from drinking too much wine.
" Show me the way, for my gold is burning my flesh, and I
long to get rid of it, I answered.
" And you will share with me in everything ? Antonio whis
pered.
" Six of the doubloons are yours, if you will only lead the
way to expend it.
" Agreed. This night you shall taste of pleasure, and know
the first principles of a Jesuit s life. But you must also, use a
Jesuit s circumspection, and keep your .tongue and thoughts under
discipline. Not by word or sign must you let the priests compre
hend the conversation that has passed between us. If you do, a
deep cell and a damp one will receive us. Be ready, after the
nine o clock vespers, to start.
" We separated, for just at that moment the priest entered the
chapel, and had he seen us speaking together, it is quite within
the limits of probability that he would have required a knowledge
of our discussion ; and if he could have wormed it from us, the
superior might have paid us a visit in our cells I can t call
them chambers, for the doors were locked upon us at night, and
iron bars were before the windows.
" I heard but little of the good man s exhortation that day, and
I learned but little from the volumes put before me. Th e priests
appeared to my eyes like huge goblets of wine, or men and women
dancing. Four or five times J looked up, and saw the suspicious
gaze of the superior fixed upon my countenance, and I had no
means of allaying his doubts of my goodness but by counting my
beads, and raising my eyes in rapt devotion to a picture of the
first grand general of the order, which hung in the school-room."
" Then it appears to me," interrupted Allen, " that you were
acting the hypocrite most admirably."
" Not so, my son," Benventuro replied ; " I was acting the
Jesuit, and very successfully, too, for one so young. I don t
mind making the confession here, for I know that I am with
friends that neither of you will ever be converted to Catholicity,
for your bumps of sinncrship are too largely developed to believe
208 LIFE IN THF EAST INDIES.
>,
in the true faith, and all the uioney that I get from you for t>
benefit of the church, of course mOst be in the way of cock-fight
ing more shame for you."
" Take another pull at the bottle and a fresh cigar," Allen said,
with a laugh at the confession.
" Thank you, I will indulge in both, because the tobacco calms
the nerves, and the wine stimulates the brain. But to continue.
I managed to contain my secret, although I thought that I should
burst with the effort ; and when at sundown we partook of our
humble supper, a piece of bread and a cup of water, I cleverly
avoided eating for fear that I should have no room for the soup,
and eggs, and chicken, which I fancied I saw before me. The
saints knew I was hungry enough, and had been ever since I be
came an inmate of the college ; but I had eaten so much coarse
bread that the sight of it sickened me, especially when we poor
devils of students could smell the savory messes, cooked in oil
and seasoned with garlic, which were being prepared for the
superior after the duties of the day were over. Another reason
why I refused to eat the bread was because I noticed that Antonio
didn t do so, and that he made me an almost imperceptible sign
to favor my appetite.
" After supper we were allowed to work in the garden attached
to the college until the nine o clock vespers ; and when we had
listened to a few prayers and a short address concerning the
beauties of Jesuitism, we were marched to our cells and locked
in, where we were generally left unmolested until four o clock in
the morning, at which time we were compelled to rise, summer
and winter.
u I did not lie down to sleep that night, you may be assured,
for I was all anticipation of a visit from Antonio. His cell was
next to mine, and I knew he was awake from the fact that he
was praying loud enough to be heard through the corridor, and
if his words were a criterion, he was the most devout boy in the
college. What blessings he hoped would be showered upon the
superior s head! and how he roared concerning he priesthood !
It would have done your heart good to have Leard him. At
length the spies, who were stationed iu the corridor for the pur
pose of listening to the conversation of the students, got tired of
such stuff, and left us to our fate ; for you know a man can t stand
everything, and they had heard enough to satisfy themselves that
THE PRIEST S STORY. 209
Antonio was a most promising young man ; and indeed he was.
I have rarely seen his equal.
"About ten o clock Antonio s prayers ceased for the want of
fuel to keep them up ; and in consequence of the. silence that pre
vailed, every boy went to sleep excepting Antonio and myself.
While the snoring was raging all around us, I heard some one
at my door, and in a few seconds it opened, and my friend entered
my cell.
" 4 Don t speak a loud word, he whispered ; c if you do you
will bring some of the watchers down on us, and that we shouldn t
like. Take hold of my hand, and follow me.
" l But how did you get my door open, and your own ? I
asked.
" I merely picked the locks, and when we come back I shall
lock you in, and then do the same for myself. But don t stop to
ask questions. We have a night of eating and drinking before
us, and time is precious. You have got the money safe?
" I had taken good care not to leave that behind.
" Then follow me, Antonio said, and mind that you tread
as lightly as a cat.
" We crept through the gloomy corridor, until we reached a
small gate, that was quickly unlocked, and as quickly secured
again ; and in a few seconds we were in the chapel, and standing
before the altar lights, which burned night and day in front of
the virgin and her child. For a moment I stopped to cross my
self and mutter a pater noster ; but before the latter was finished
I was pushed towards the altar by Antonio, and told to remove a
piece of carpet that covered the floor where the priests were in
the habit of standing when saying mass. I did as he directed,
t)ut nothing but the floor met my view.
" While I was wondering what he could mean, he motioned
me back a few paces, and touched a secret spring. A panel slid
back, and a flight of steps met my gaze. My companion inti
mated that I was expected to go down, and I obeyed him, he fol
lowing and closing the panel noiselessly. We found ourselves in
the most intense darkness, without a single ray of light to tell us
which way to turn ; but Antonio seemed familiar with the place,
and no longer confined his remarks to whispers.
" * Stand where you are without moving, and I ll find a light,
he said.
U
210 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" But where are we, and what is the cause of this humid.
sickening smell? I asked.
" 4 We are under the chapel/ Antonio replied, l and the smell
which you complain of is not very agreeable, I must confess, be
cause it is occasioned by the decomposition of a dozen or two
priests, w r hose bones have been deposited here at different times
within the last fifty years. I wish that the blessed saints would
take them all in the course of a year, and leave us to begin the
world as we please. Spain would lose nothing, while I think we
should be gainers by the arrangement.
44 1 didn t like the idea of standing there in the dark, surrounded
by dead priests ; so I begged Antonio to hurry with the light.
He laughed at my timidity, and rattled at some boards until I
thought the priests were struggling to life to punish us for the
desecration.
44 At length I heard the sound of flint and steel, and in a second
afterwards a pale, flickering light, hardly relieving the gloom and
darkness, appeared.
44 4 Here s where I keep the tools for a light, in case you should
come here alone,^ my companion said, raising the lid of a coffin
that rested on a huge tone slab near the steps which we had de
scended. You can always find them in the coffin, because I
don t think that any one would be likely to disturb them. You
can see that only a few bones remain of a priest, who at one
time must have been of some importance, for I see a silver plate
on the wood-work ; and faith I have a good mind to take it, and
dispose of it to the first broker we may meet. The money would
do me more good than the dead, and I have no doubt tjiat the fel
low, if alive, would thank me for my forethought.
44 As I w r as unused to such things, I begged Antonio to let the
plate alone, promising him all the wine he could drink if he
would oblige me. I think that my liberal offer had the deshed
effect, for he gave up his purpose, then wanted me to examine
the coffins, and see how I liked their arrangement. I declined the
tempting offer, and expressed a wish to get clear of such scenes
as fast as possible ; but my companion laughed at me for a simple
ton who was afraid of the dead, when the dead were incapable of
inflicting any harm.
44 4 The fact of it is, said Antonio, seating himself upon one of
the stone slabs, and resting his light upon a coffin that had been
211
covered with black velvet ; but the moths and mice had made
terrible work with the sombre cloth, and but little of the original
material remained, fc I rather like this place. There is no re
straint here. If one wishes to laugh, there is no stern-looking
priest here to rebuke you for levity, and inflict penance from
malice. A man can learn more here in an hour, than from all
the teachings of the superior in a year/
" That may be true/ I replied ; but all people are not consti
tuted alike. I expect every moment to feel the cold hand of a
skeleton upon my neck, and don t see any pleasure^stayiug in a
damp vault, when the wine shops are open and invite us/
" 4 By the saints, you speak truly, Antonio said, rising and
leading the way to the other end of the vault. Let us be mov
ing, for my mouth is watering for a glass of Madeira and a
mouthful of chicken. Keep close to me, and bend your head, or
it may come in contact with a beam occasionally. Step carefully,
and don t mind the rats. They won t trouble us ; at least they
never have showed fight to me, and I think that they are disposed
to be friends/ "
" If you could, without much inconvenience to yourself and
friend, get out of that vault, I should be much obliged to you, as I
think you have been there long enough," Allen remarked, as the
priest stopped to take another pull at the bottle, and to light a
fresh cigar. ..
" I have no objection to that, I assure you," replied Ben-
venturo, u for I am not one who likes to hover around the dead,
unless they have left me and the church good legacies. Let me
see where was I ? "
" The rats were chasing you from the vault. I think," Allen
said, with a yawn.
" O, yes ; there were many disagreeable associations connected
with that vault, and I afterwards learned that before the Peninsular
war the place was filled With racks and thumb-screws, shower-
baths and penances, and other delightful inventions for convert
ing Pagans, Jews, and Protestants to Christianity. I suppose
I could tell you reminiscences of that place, which would make
your blood run cold."
" Do so then, for Heaven s sake, for I m roasting with heat,"
Allen said.
The priest disdained to notice the interruption, and con
tinued :
212 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
i,
" When we gained a wall, Antonio showed me a small doofr
which would have escaped notice unless a close examination was
made. The hinges were rusty, and creaked most discordantly
when the door was opened ; and had my companion not shaded
the light with his hand, the strong draft of air would have ex
tinguished the flame. I looked into the dark passage, but could
see nothing but mould and darkness, and I drew back somewhat
alarmed."
44 4 There is nothing to fear, Antonio said. I have traversed
the passage many times, and never met anything worse than a
bat or a toad. But you are not to go rut yet" for it would be
rather inconvenient to meet with a priest belonging to the college,
and have him take us before the superior. Explanations are so
unpleasant at certain times !
" Then we are not to show ourselves in our college costume?
I asked.
" Of course not. I should be a poor pupil to a Jesuit society,
if I did not guard against such an unnecessary display of our
robes. We visit the city as cavaliers, and very good looking onea
we shall make, I have no doubt. "
" How you must have changed since your youth ! " Allen sug
gested ; but the padre merely shook his fat fist at the speaker, and
continued his narrative :
" Antonio paid a second visit to a coffin that reposed in soli
tary grandeur near the door, and produced ,two tight-fitting
jackets, with bell buttons and velvet trimmings, and trousers of
the same material, open at the legs, and about the right size.
We threw off our robes and put on the clothes without waste
of time ; and after I had adjusted a red sash around my waist,
my companion thrust a hat upon niy head, placed all of our
clothing in the coffin, covered it with the lid, and gave the signal
to start.
" How did you ever discover this passage? I asked, as we
groped otir way along, starting bats from their slumbers and toads
from their apathy.
* 4 4 By keeping my eyes open, instead of sleeping, as many young
men would have done. But to let you into the secret, I don t mind
saying that a year ago I was ordered to do penance in the chapel
all night. You may recollect what I was punished for. It was
for throwing a loaf of bread at Pedro s head, because he said that
THE PRIEST S STORY. 213
be could write better Latin than myself. The fool, he knew no
more about the dead languages than I did, and I was not intimate
ly acquainted with verbs. However, I had violated a rule of the
college, and I was punished by being locked in the chapel all
night, and I was expected to repeat one hundred prayers before
morning. I managed to get through with one by way of pastime,
and while I was practising a new dance before the altar, I thought
I heard a noise underneath the chapel ; and although I have bul
little belief in the devil, I didn t know but there might be such an
individual, and that he was in want of me. I considered that the
best thing that I could do would be to get out of the way as fast
as possible, for I had no notion of visiting the regions of the
damned, where all but good Jesuits go.
" I thought that the nearer to the altar I got, the safer I should
be, and with a brief prayer, only extorted from me on account of
fear, I hid under a lounge, and lay there with a quaking heart.
In a short time, to my intense horror, I saw the floor move, then
open, and a rush of cold air, laden with sickening effluvia, which,
to my imagination, smelt like brimstone, filled the chapel, and
convinced me that I was really to receive a visit from the devil.
" First a head was thrust through the opening, and then a body
followed slowly, as though tired with exertion. I shut my eyes
to hide the dreadful sight, but for fear oY consequences I remained
quite still, and waited the moment when the forked tail was to be
stuck into my side, and I was to be borne to other regions, where
prayers and masses are of little avail. At length I found that I
was unharmed, and I ventured to look up. You may imagine
my surprise, Benventuro, when I saw that, instead of the devil,
it was only his friend, the superior, changing his clothes ; and from
a cavalier s suit he gradually assumed the plain robes of the priest.
He did the work very deliberately, too, as though he had been
through the same operation before, and could do so again.
" I was slightly astonished, you may well imagine, and as all
fear* had left me when I found that I was dealing with a natural
body instead of a supernatural one, I watched the old man s mo
tions with considerable interest. I saw him close the trap door,
and cover the same with the carpet ; and once when he bent his
body near mine, I detected the smell of wine, and I jumped at a
conclusion at once. I -supposed that our respected superior was
only common clay, after all, and that he liked the society of
214 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
the world and a sup of wine as well as the rest of us, and that,
to enjoy himself without restraint, it was necessary .he should
visit the city in disguise. I reasoned that if he could leave the
college by the way of the vault, what was to prevent me from do
ing the same ?
" I resolved to act, and when the superior had left the chapel
for his bed, I took a candle that stood on the altar, and com
menced my discoveries. I raised the trap door, and made the
descent ; but I was almost inclined to abandon the search, when
I saw before me the remains of the dead. But I reasoned myself
out of all fear, and continued my investigations until the door was
found, and I stood where we now stand.
J Antonio extinguished his light as he uttered those words, and
a few more steps led us to what I supposed was a door ; but the
darkness was so intense that I could distinguish nothing. I heard
my companion slip a bolt, and then we stepped out into the open
air, outside the college walls, and free from observation. Tho
outlet of the passage-way was so contrived that a person mighj
make a strict search for the door, and yet be unable to find it un
less he had passed out that way and knew its exact locality.
" Antonio deposited his lamp where he could find it when we re
turned, and then we started on our adventures, the college clocfc
tolling the hour of ten just as we arrived outside of the grounds.
" What a joke it would be to set fire to the whole concern !
suggested my friend, as we stopped and looked at the college
silent and dark like its old superior.
" It would be much better to run away and become soldiers,
I replied.
" And be returned bound like cattle, sneered Antonio. No,
no ; before we were gone a week we should be overtaken and
braught back, and then the treatment we should receive would
be none of the mildest. No, no ; I don t run away as long as I
can raise money and enjoy myself outside. I think that I can
manage to pass away the three years of my probation in an agree
able manner, and after I am a priest, an ordained one, I can do
pretty near as I please, especially if I am placed beyond the reach
of superiors. No, Beuventuro ; don t run away, because such an
act would be disgraceful, not only to yourself, but to the great
society which we have sworn to support.
" 1 had my private opinion respecting the theory of his disgrace-
THE PRIEST S STORY. 215
ful acts, but I did not state it, as I was too overjoyed to breaths
the free air of heaven to argue with him. t was intoxicated with
delight at the novelty of my position, and I could hardly refrain
from shouting my joy, and bringing upon us the wrath of the
sentinels stationed at the corners of the streets. Our first course
was steered directly for a fonda, where we could satisfy our ap
petites and quench our thirst. We entered the place, and found
that it was thronged with visitors senoritas and senors of every
age and description in life ; virtuous women, and those not quite
so prudish ; libertines and impotent rakes, coxcombs and CUCK-
olds, all mixed together, and sipping their coffee and wine with a
freedom that was charming to behold.
" I would have preferred a seat where I could have watched the
company and remained unseen, but Antonio was not one of the
retiring sort. He swaggered into the grand saloon with the air
of a general, and shouted out his orders to the \vaiter in such a
manner that he soon had half a dozen of them standing around
our table, waiting in respectful silence for orders. And the orders
were not slow in being issued. One was told to bring eggs fried
in butter, another chickens cooked in oil and covered with grated
garlic, a third was started for two bottles of -wine, while a fourth
was despatched for fruit and vegetables. O, we had a rare feast
that night, and I have often looked back upon my exploits in the
gastronomic line that eventful evening with envy, for everything
was relished ; I had Digestion and good appetite two things
which I am sorry to say are somewhat impaired at this late day ;
and now if I worry down a piece of chicken and drink a glass of
wine, I think that I am doing very well. *
Allen exploded with laughter, and even Tom and myself w r ere
forced to join him, the idea was so preposterous ; for had we
not seen the padre an hour before eat to repletion, and drink wine
enough to float a small banco ? Benventuro, apparently, did not
expect us to believe him, for he smiled freely as he emptied a
bottle of claret and lighted a fresh cigar.
" Go on with the yarn," Allen said ; " but please to confine your
self to facts, not fancies. This is not the age of romances."
The holy father took not the slightest notice of the interrup
tion. He puffed out volumes of smoke from his sensual-looking
mouth, and continued :
" Of course all eyes were upon us, for it was something unusual
216 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES
V,
for two youths to expend so much money upon a single entertain
ment ; but Antonio s sang froid never for an instant deserted him.
He inspected the wine by the light of the chandeliers, and after
sipping it, condescended to call it good, much to the relief of an
old servant, who stood at his elbow ; and after we had satisfied
the first pangs of our hunger, we began to look around and admire
the female faces present. Presently Antonio sent two glasses of
wine, with our respects, to two young ladies who seemed desirous
of obtaining protectors. The wine was accepted, and thanks re
turned. Then my friend proffered a present of fruit, and that
was likewise gratefully received. Then we sent an invitation for
them to partake of coffee at our table, and they did not reject the
overture. We found them to be very intelligent girls, fond of
company and show, and we readily offered them our protection
home, which was accepted without much maidenly diffidence.
" We paid our bill and left, but not until the proprietor had in
formed us that a masked ball was to be held at the fonda in two
weeks time, and that our patronage was solicited. Of course we
promised to come, and then, giving the girls our arms, we sallied
out for their homes, laughing and joking on the way ; but at three
o clock in the morning we entered the secret passage and gained
our rooms unperceived, and without a soul in the building suspect
ing that we had been absent. .
" The next day we- rather drooped over our studies, but we at
tributed it to a slight indisposition ; so no notice was taken of our
sleepy looks. I was anxious to make another attempt the very
next night, but Antonio refused to consent, and persuaded me to
save my money until the night of the masked ball, when he
promised that I should see fun enough to last me for a month.
I could hardly contain myself to wait so long ; but Antonio found
a ready argument when he said that our money would soon be
exhausted by going out twice a week, and that we should attract
suspicion by writing to friends for more.
" I counted the days impatiently until the time arrived when
we were once more to go forth into the world, and mingle in its
pleasures and avoid its pains. At length the night did arrive, and
with a heart swelling with promised rapture, we stole through the
chapel and sought the hidden door ; but to our surprise we found
that some one had been before us, and.had evidently passed through
the vault to the outer world. For a moment we hesitated whether
THE PRIES l S STORY. 217
we should venture ; but a love of the good things of this life con
quered all fear of detection, and in another moment we were with
the dead, and our pale light flickered in the humid air. We
found the vault door open, as we expected ; but Antonio took
a skeleton key with him, which he declared would open the lock,
even if the priest, who had gone before us, should return first to
the college.
" I must confess that I felt a little uncomfortable with the
thought of detection before me ; but Antonio strove to banish all
apprehensions, and by the time we reached the fonda, he had
nearly succeeded. A few glasses of wine did more than his words,
and after a hearty supper I felt as though I could encounter the
superior and all his aids single-handed."
u You must have been quite drunk by the time you arrived at
that conclusion," remarked Allen, interrupting the good man.
" Exhilarated, my son, nothing more," Benveuturo replied ;
u there is quite a distinction between the two words, and I beg
that you will remember them when conversing with a member of
the church. Let me see where was I? "
" Drunk, or exhilarated," promptly responded Allen, " which
ever you choose." .
" The music, was sounding overhead," the padre continued,
" and we could hear the feet of the waltzers as they whirled
around the hall, sliaking the building and starting the rafters
stirring our young blood with the thought of scenes which our
teachers had endeavored to convince us were vain and sinful, but
which had intruded upon our minds, during our wakeful hours,
as the most profitable pleasure of the world until we could no
longer remain idle. To join the dance it was necessary that we
should have costumes ; so Antonio called the head waiter for a
conference.
" Ah, seuors/ the old man said, you have spoken just in
time. Never since I have been connected with the fonda was
there such a demand for costumes as to-night. All the beauty
and fashion of the city are at the ball, and the costumes are as
varied as the ages of the ladies. I have but two dresses left, and
they are sweet things for a ball-room. They are just suitable for
gentlemen of spirit/
" Produce them/ was Antonio s command.
218 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. ^
" The old servant, who had grown fat upon the good fare of
tliefonda, waddled off, and returned with two costumes and masks,
which he proceeded to display.
* Why, these dresses are intended to represent young devils,
with horns partly grown/ shouted Antonio.
44 6 Yes, senor, and capital counterfeits they are. But have no
fear. A priest has blessed them, and showered them with holy
water, so that the Evil One can have no control over the wearers.
They will create a sensation, senors, among the ladies.
" What were we to do? Refuse the costumes and thus lose
the ball, or buy them and have a fine night s enjoyment, frighten
ing old women and nervous young ones. We determined to in
vest, and I had the satisfaction of paying away one of my doubloons
in exchange for dresses which were ugly enough to cause hysterics
with the innocent and convulsions with the wicked.
" We were shown to a private room, and soon donned
our new robes, and then marched solemnly and majestically
to the ball-room. Our appearance was hailed with roars of
laughter from the men and looks of terror from the women.
Way was made for us wherever we went, for none seemed dis
posed to come in contact with us, however much they might
admire us. If any accosted us, we answered with all the wit
that we could command, and sent joke for joke flying to the right
or left without regard to age or personage.
" * Senors/ said a tall mask, dressed like a troubadour, your
father is anxious to find you. See, he has just entered the ball
room/
" We looked in the direction indicated, and, sure enough, we
saw an old devil more ugly and more fantastically dressed than
either of us. His horns were near a foot long, and his tail was
trailed upon the floor, except when he whisked it around his body
or over his shoulder. Our hearts died with envy at the sight, for
it seemed as though our glory was gone for the evening, The
vast audience applauded the old devil, and left us young ones
entirely unnoticed. In this, however, it was but following the
custom of all nations, which is to run after novelties.
11 Senors/ paid a young and beautiful girl, whose beauty had
melted my heart, why don t you salute your parent ?
44 4 Because, senora/ I replied, 4 he is the father of liars ; but
THE PRIEST S STORY. 219
when I tell you that I love you, I wish to forget my relationship,
and speak but the truth/
" * O, is that the reason? she asked, with a laugh. I have
been loved many times and by many men, whom I knew to be
devils, but this is the first time that one ever hud the courage to
appear in his true character. When your horns have grown to a
sufficient length, I ll consider of your passion. Till then, adieu.
" She waved her fan and swept towards the old devil, who was
gamboling and attracting much attention in another part of the
hall. Antonio and myself followed her, and when we reached
the spot where our respected parent stood, the crowd opened to
the right and left for the purpose of enclosing us in a circle. We
found ourselves, by these means, face to face with the object of
our envy.
" Children/ cried the people, advance and salute your father,
and ask the news from Hades.
" To my surprise Antonio obeyed. He threw his arms around
the neck of the old devil, and embraced him in spite of his op
position to that kind of treatment. The crowd saw the reluctance,
and shouted with joy, and urged me to follow the example of my
brother ; and even the young lady, whose eyes had made so serious
an impression upon my heart, accused me of ingratitude in not
testifying more affection. I did not stir, however, until Antonio
made me a signal to come to his assistance.
" Our father, he said, has not danced for many years, but
he is so pleased at meeting his sons, that he desires us to waltz
with him. Let us give him a turn around the hall.
" In vain the old devil pleaded that he had no taste for such
display. We refused to listen to him, and when the music struck
up, we each seized an arm and capered around the room to the
intense delight of the spectators, and the great disgust of the per
son who had robbed us of our glory.
" In the name of the saints, he muttered, let me go, or Til
curse you. Brats that you are, what mean you by this treat
ment?
" Our father is old, cried Antonio, c and needs new blood.
Let us emulate the pelican by giving liberally from ours. Another
turn around the room will fire his veins with renewed ardor for
enjoyment on earth. Now, then, away with him !
" Wretches that you are, I shall die from suffocation ! moaned
220 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. ^
the old fellow; and faith, there was some fear that he wculd^
for he staggered and it required all our strength to keep him on
his feet.
" Supper and wine for both if you will let me alone/ the elder
ly devil managed to gasp ; and as the proposition was a fair one,
and our appetites quite good, we consented.
" We escorted our parent, as we called him, to the dining-room
of the fonda, threw aside our masks, and called for all the good
things that we could think of, and prepared to make merry.
" 4 Come, good devil, Antonio said, doff your mask and enjoy
yourself; we are friends now, and on an equality/
" That I am forbidden to do by a vow which is sacred, our
new friend replied ; but let not my refusal have any effect upon
your appetites. The young devils rule to-night ; to-morrow the
old one will have his turn/
" The words were uttered so sarcastically that they attracted
my attention, and I looked to the old man for an explanation."
" Most holy father," interrupted Allen, " we are within a mile
of Santa Mesa. Already I can see the smoke issuing from the
engine chimney ; yet you are so mixed up with the devil and hand
some women, that I sadly fear we shall never hear the termina
tion of your wonderful adventures. Cut some of the devils, and
drown the women in a generous draught of claret, and then get
out of the maze which surrounds you like a veil of brimstone."
" Your advice relating to the wine is sound," Benventuro re
plied, " and I approve of it ; but do you think that a man can cut
a story short, or reel it off like one of your ropes, manufactured
to order? You stick to your hemp, which you will reap the benefit
of one day, and leave me to deal with the "
" Devil, who will have you at no distant time," Allen ex
claimed.
" The saints forbid," was the pious exclamation. u Because I
associate with profligates and libertines in the hope of saving
them, is it a reason why I should be condemned? The saints
never intended that I should labor for such a bad reward."
" Well," replied Allen, lighting a fresh cigar, " we are even on
personalities. Now go on with the yarn, and pay out at a rapid
rate until the whole is completed."
The priest nodded, and continued his story :
" The remark of the old devil was certainly suspicious ; for what
THE PRIEST S STORY. 221
did he mean by saying that, if we triumphed to-day he would to
morrow? I asked for an explanation, but our father in sin did
not seem disposed to give one, and rather treated our offers of
friendship in a disdainful manner."
" Senor Devil, Antonio said, raising a decanter with one
hand in a menacing manner, if you don t treat us with more re
spect, I ll brain you with this bottle of wine, and make you pay
the damages. We are gentlemen, and must be honored by re
spect/
" Carefully, senors, the old devil replied. * Don t be violent
until there is occasion. I have no doubt that you are gentlemen ;
but how long is it since you left the Jesuit college of St. Salva
dor, where you are pupils ?
" Had an earthquake occurred, we could not have been more
startled. We began to suspect that we were dealing with a bona
fide devil, after all, for how else could he have been aware that
we were connected with the college?
" How do you know that? I asked.
" Why, one of my imps told me. Is not that information
sufficient?
" While we were staring with astonishment at the old fellow s
horns, and wondering how we could get a view of his face, our
evil genius arose, saluted us with fantastic courtesy, and walked
towards the desk where the proprietor was seated, paid his bill
for the supper, turned, and took another good look at us, and then
left thdfonda without speaking a word.
" We drew a long breath, expressive of great relief, when his
form was no longer in sight ; but the old devil had dashed our
spirits, and we were in no mood for revelry just then. We
emptied the bottles of wine before us, but they failed to inspire
confidence or courage ; for we feared that we should be punished
the next day for our truancy.
" What is to be done? I asked, after we had sat drinking in
silence for half an hour.
" I know not, unless we make the best of our way to the col
lege, and try and sleep off this disagreeable feeling which now op
presses us, Antonio said, after a few minutes hesitation.
" I was willing to listen to such advice, for I knew the cruelties
v>hich we should be exposed to, if our flight was discovered by
the superior.
222 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" We seized our clothes, tied in bundles, and started for the
college, walking rapidly to escape the jeers of those whom we
passed ic the street ; but after we reached the entrance to the
subterranean passage, we felt somewhat relieved to find that the
door had not been disturbed in our absence ; or at least it was not
bolted on the inside, as we feared it would be. With eager hands
Antonio lighted our lamp, secured the door, and then we started
for the vault where the dead reposed, and which I never ventured
near without trembling and fear.
" We gained the vault, and bolted the door after us ; and then
for the first time Antonio spoke.
" 4 The saints be praised for this lucky escape/ he said. Who,
in the name of Satan, was the old devil?
" I ! was the answer ; and, to our horror and consterna
tion, from behind one of the coffins rose the form of the devil,
whose na-me we had just invoked.
u There he stood, grinning at us, with horns and tail as large
as when we romped with him in the ball-room, an hour or two
before. I never flattered myself at praying ; but if I did not
repeat a pater noster that moment quicker than I ever did before
or since, it is because my memory is treacherous. As for my
companion, Antonio, I don t think that he was much less fright
ened than myself, although he tried to seem composed ; but the
effort was a failure, for the lamp which he held in his hand shook
so, that a portion of the oil was spilled upon the ground, and
the flame danced around the vault until every coffin in it was
lighted up.
" Who are you? demanded Antonio, with chattering teeth,
at length mustering courage to speak.
" * Don t you see? I m the devil, was the answer.
" I don t believe you are any more of a devil than we are,
my companion continued, gaining courage every moment.
" Would you like to see a specimen of my skill? the devil
asked. Shall I cause these dead priests to be alive again, and
walk the earth with flesh and blood upon their bonas? or do you
prefer that I should show you the mysteries of hell?
" I had rather view the latter than the former, for we see
enough live priests every day without awakening the dead. Let
the old fellows sleep, for they need all the rest they can get, was
Antonio s answer.
THE PRIEST S STORY. 223
" But suppose I should chain you here until the breath left your
bodies, for the insults you have heaped upon me to-night ? the
devil demanded, seriously.
" 4 Why, then you would lose two good servants, and the col
lege two promising students, was the response.
" t Explain yourself, the devil demanded again, more grave
than ever.
" 4 Why, you know that a man can t be a Jesuit unless he serves
a master, and I know that you have none too many friends to thus
quarrel with them.
" I thought that Satan smothered a laugh, and it gave me
courage to hope that Antonio and his tact would yet save us.
" Do you know me ? the devil inquired.
" Nolt if you wish to remain unknown, was the prompt
answer.
" And you think that even if I should punish you as you
deserve for this night s exploits, you would never mention my
name? our questioner continued.
" Your secret will not be known, and we shall escape punish
ment, Antonio said, promptly.
" How so?
" * Because your life is in our hands. We are young, active,
and armed, while you are old and weak, and none to heed your
cries within hearing. We have learned enough of Jesuitism to
understand that the first law of the institution is self-preservation.
We shall obey that law, sure.
" 4 Why, you young devils ! would you murder me in cold
blood? demanded our new acquaintance, more in surprise than
alarm.
" 4 We should dislike the task ; but if forced to save ourselves
by that act, we should do so, and none in the college would be the
tiaer. A Jesuit can keep a secret, as you well know.
u 4 You know me, then ? the masquerader asked.
" I do you are Father Vider, the superior of the college,
was Antonio s reply.
" I was astonished, and well I might be, for the superior was
nearly sixty years of age, and the last man in Cadiz whom I
should have suspected of visiting balls, and playing the pranks of
youth and hot blood.
" You have guessed rightly I am the superior ; and off
224 LIFE IN T1IE EAST INDIES.
tumbled the hideous head, horns, and mask, and revealed the thin,
wrinkled, and dark features of Father Vider. I could hardly
refrain from falling upon my knees, and begging for forgiveness ;
for I had become so accustomed to his rule that I dreaded his
rebuke.
" c Are we to be treated as children, or as rebellious students?
demanded Antonio, as bold as a bishop.
" i As children, with my forgiveness, if nothing is said regard
ing this night s adventures, the superior replied.
* Then swear it upon the cross which you wear around your
neck, and which has been blessed by the pope.
"The superior hesitated for a moment, to see if he could not
avoid the oath ; but finding that Antonio was resolute, he con
sented ; and then we knew that we could trust him.
" Throw off your dresses/ he said, and go to bed, for it s
near the hour of early mass, and I would not have the inmates
of the college know of this adventure. To prevent such scenes
in future, I shall have the entrance to the vault secured, and thus
stop ingress or egress by this route.
" * But how will you manage when you wish to visit the city
during the hours of night? asked Antonio, with bold audacity.
" 4 That is none of your business, was the tart answer.
" But how shall we manage? demanded my friend.
" If you are discreet, I shall give you a day s liberty once a
fortnight. Now to bed, and remember the scenes of this night as
though they were a dream.
" We obeyed without a murmur ; still I had some misgivings
that the superior would punish us some way or other ; and he did,
but a little different from what we expected ; for in the course of
three months Antonio and myself were pronounced competent to
receive priests orders, and we were duly ordained, and then de
spatched in different directions. Antonio was sent to Rome,
where he is engaged to keep watch upon the pope and cardinals,
while I was provided for at Manila ; and here I have remained
ever since, doing as little as possible, except in the eating and
drinking line ; but I believe that is all the archbishop cares for,
and if he is satisfied, I am."
" Did the superior ever allude to the adventures of that night?"
Allen asked.
" Never, in word or deed. Even when he parted from me, and
THE PRIEST S STORY. 225
gave me his blessing, I expected that he would say something ;
but he did not. I never saw him afterwards. He lived until
over seventy years of age, ond his name is revered as that of a
saint in Cadiz. He had ins faults, like the rest of us, and like us
was anxious to conceal them from the public eye."
Just as the padre concluded his story, the banco reached the
side of the river opposite the factory, at Santa Mesa, and we
landed.
" Can you spare the men half an hour, .Senor Alln? " Benven
turo asked.
" Certainly."
" I want to send word to my steward to join me here on busi
ness, immediately."
" What, the fellow with the black beard and hang-dog expres
sion to his face?" Allen asked.
" I must confess that you have drawn his portrait, although it
is not a flattering one. He is the one I mean, and a useful man
he is sometimes," replied Benveuturo.
" Especially for a sudden death," whispered Allen to me ; but
the priest did not hear the remark or see the movement of my
friend s lips.
We left the priest giving orders to the crew of the boat while
we walked slowly towards the house and factory, situated about
twenty rods from the landing.
At the gate we saw Mr. Huckford, and shook hands with him,
presenting Tom in due form. No matter how much company
arrived, Mr. Huckford was never disturbed from his accustomed
serenity, provided his guests were Americans, or could speak the
English language. He gave every one a hearty welcome, arid the
best that his house afforded 1 was always freely offered.
" It is still two hours from dinner-time," Mr. Huckford said,
looking at his watch. " How will you manage until that hour
arrives ? "
Tom decided upon visiting the factory, and learning the mys
teries of rope-making, while I concluded to take a little rest, which
I very much needed after my night of labor and anxiety ; and for
that purpose I went to my old quarters, where a net hammock was
always kept for me, and where I could lie and read, or else watch
the river and the many burdens which it bore upon its surface. \
had not been alone more than five minutes when Allen ent^ed.
15
226 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
V,
" Excuse me for disturbing you," he said ; " but I want to tell
you the reason of Benventuro s sending for his steward. He in
tends to despatch him to Manila in search of your wife, and I
think that the movement is a good one. The fellow is a precious
scoundrel, I know ; but the holy father has him in complete sub
jection, and I am sure that he will not dare to work except for
his master s advantage. Some good may come of the visit, and
at any rate, no harm can take place unless Father Juan takes a
hint that his steps are watched."
" Let him go, by all means," I said, " and any expenses that
he incurs I will cheerfully meet."
" I have a young fellow at work in the factory, who was born
in Manila, and is well acquainted there. He will serve us faith
fully for money, although I think that he would sell his father
for an ounce of gold. In this matter we can trust him, for it will
be for his interest to be honest. Besides, he knows your wife by
sight, having often seen her here while visiting. If you think it
expedient, I will engage his services for a week, and send him
off this very afternoon to commence the search."
I had no objections to the course which Allen suggested ; and
we concluded to start both men for Manila that afternoon, with
instructions to send us information, if there was any of importance,
twice a day, or to report themselves at my city residence in the
evening, between the hours of seven and nine o clock, when they
could enter without observation, and talk at leisure.
Allen left me to complete his arrangements, and I fell asleep,
during which I dreamed that my wife had quarrelled with my
protegee, Gracia, and swallowed her whole as easily as though
she had the flexible muscles and good digestion of a boa con
strictor. I imagined that I attempted to prevent the gluttonous
act, and that I even seized Gracia by her feet and tried to pre
vent her disappearing from sight ; but while I was pulling first
one way and then the other, Teresa kicked me with such force that
I was compelled to cry aloud for assistance.
" Hallo ! what is the matter with you? " some one asked, shak
ing me most violently by the shoulder.
I started up, rubbed my eyes, and saw that Father Benventuro
was standing over me.
" 1 have been in the room for three minutes," he said, " watch
THE DINNER. 227
ing your struggles while asleep. What is the matter with you?
Have you been dreaming of earthquakes or snakes?"
44 Pardon me," I replied ; " I was dreaming of anacondas, and
I thought that one had got hold of me."
" That is not very complimentary to me, for I never show such
snake-like propensities except at the dinner table. And speaking
of dinner reminds me that I was sent to inform you that that
important meal is on the table, and we are waiting for you.
Come, dip your face in this bowl of cool water, and take some
of the fever out of it, and be sure that you retire early to-night.
They may urge you to drink stoutly ; but it is a vile habit, so
you can conscientiously refuse. Imitate me in that respect if you
can. I know that it is difficult, but be firm and refuse."
With this advice the priest left me, and I dressed for dinner,
considerably refreshed by my sleep, yet feeling far from easy in
my mind, when I thought of my wife, and considered where she
was hidden by the treacherous Father Juan.
The dinner passed off as all dinners usually do, where a por
tion of the company is disposed to talk, and other portions remain
quiet listeners. The priest was profuse in his remarks, and told
some wonderful and startling adventures concerning himself the
night before ; and I think that on the whole he actually believed
what he said. The deeper he drank the more astonishing were
the sacrifices which he had made while saving some imaginary
person from being crushed by a falling wall, or drowned by the
rushing tide. Those present listened to him highly amused, and
only ventured to contradict when he went beyond all reason.
" Come," said Allen, addressing me, " let us take a few hours
ride on horseback this evening, while the rest of the company
can remain at the table, or follow our example. We shall have
a full moon at eight o clock, and the cool air will be delicious a3
it sweeps down from the mountains and crosses the river. Who
will go with us ? "
" Not I," said the padre, " as long as I can find a companion to
drink with."
" And 1 prefer to increase my knowledge of Spanish to being
skinned on a hard-trotting horse," Tom answered.
Mr. Huckford agreed to remain at home and attend to business,
and in a few minutes Allen and myself were supplied witli horses,,
and trotting leisurely in the direction of a village which is about
228 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
V.
five miles from Santa Mesa. The place is much frequented by
merchants, who do business in Manila, on account of the cool, clear
water which flows through the village, affording unrivalled facili
ties for bathing, and because the nights are unusually cool, and the
air free of insects two things which invite slumber and comfort,
and which cannot he had in the city.
" It is now seven o clock," said Allen, consulting his watch.
" We can visit the village, bathe in the clear, cold waters of the
river, and back again to the factory by nine. Touch your horse
with the whip, and let s see which has got the most speed."
In a few seconds our slow pace was changed to a gallop, and as
the animals were fresh and eager for the fun, we went over the
ground at a rapid rate, and did not draw rein until we were in the
heart of the village, and every one in town was tagging at our
heels, as though they had not seen a stranger for a twelvemonth.
The noise brought many of the natives to their doors ; but after
one stoical stare they retreated to their hammocks, and com
menced chewing betel-nut with renewed vigor.
We rode to the bathing-pool ; but before we could dismount, a
little girl, whose costume was fashioned after that of Mother Eve,
excepting the fig leaf, came towards us with her arms filled with
grass-cloth towels, and begged our acceptance of the same ; and
after we alighted, a Mestiza took the bridles of our horses,
loosened the girts, and rubbed them down with wisps of grass
and the husks of cocoa-nuts.
" What a polite part of the country we have reached ! " I said
to Allen ; but he only laughed, and made preparations for the
swim.
The little girl squatted down upon the bank of the river, and
seemed to watch our movements with some curiosity ; so 1
thought that I would give her notice that her company was not
wanted, until our bathing was completed.
To my surprise, however, the little wretch took no notice of
my hints, and I was compelled to suspend operations, although
Allen did not.
" Go away, little girl," I said ; "and don t come again for half
an hour."
" What for, senor?" she asked.
" Because I am about to swim," I answered.
" I know it, senor," she replied, with composure.
CHAKMING SIMPLICITY. 229
" And you won t move? " I asked.
" No, senor ; I must stay and watch the towels."
Here was the cause of the difficulty ; and while I was some
what mortified that our honesty should be questioned, Alien
laughed so heartily that he was compelled to suspend operations
until he grew more composed.
44 Why, I thought the girl was too honest to suspect dis
honesty," I said.
" Then, to prevent you from judging hastily hereafter, study the
motives of people ; " and with this sage advice Allen dove from a
rock like a duck, and rolled over and over in the cool water like a
mermaid.
44 Come on/ he shouted ; ll the water is perfectly delicious."
44 But this girl ; what shall I do with her? " I asked.
4 Why, give her a real, and she will show how much better
she can dive than either of us, and how much faster she can
swim."
I declined the proposition, and as nothing that I could say would
induce the girl to move, I thanked Heaven that the moon was not
up, and that the sun had set ; so in a moment I cast my clothes
aside, and modestly plunged into the water. As far as I could
tell, the girl did not seem much shocked at the outrage, and oc
cupied her time, while we were swimming, in sucking the sweet
milk from a cocoa-nut.
For half an hour we sported in the water, and then judiciously
used the grass-cloth towels belonging to the girl. By the time
we had concluded, she had finished her nut, gathered up the
napkins, and then led the way slowly towards the house.
44 Where are we going now?" I asked of Allen.
44 For coffee and cigars," he replied.
u This, then, is a hotel?" I said, pointing to the bamboo hut
before us.
" It is what they call a hotel in this part of the country, and a
very good one they think it is, too. All foreigners who come here
to bathe, stop at the hut for towels and coffee, and if it don t
have anything else that is good, you can always be sure of a
strong, clear cup of coffee, the berry of which was grown within
a few rods of us, and towels of their own manufacture. But
come and contrast this watering-place hotel with the houses at
Newport and Fort Henry."
230 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v
We entered the hut, and found the owner, with his wife and
several children, squatted around a huge wooden dish filled with
rice ; and the rapid manner in which they made it disappear was
wonderful to behold.
CHAPTER IX.
THE INN. OUR COFFEE. THE AMBUSH. THE ATTACK. ITS
FAILURE. THE EXAMINATION. THE RESULT.
" THE saints have you in their keeping, senors," cried the land
lord, as we entered the rather dimly-lighted room, which was too
modest to even boast of a floor, for the hard earth had been lev
elled and beaten into service, and had the advantage of not requir
ing washing or repairing.
" May the saints protect you and yours," was the rejoinder of
Allen, as we took seats upon a bamboo bench, and watched the
progress of the meal.
"Will the senors partake?" cried the husband, opening his
mouth to receive a ball of rice which he had skilfully collected
with three fingers.
He threw back his head as he spoke, and the rice, about the
size of a grape shot, was hurled into his mouth with wonderful
precision.
" Heaven forbid," I cried hastily, with a look of disgust at the
numerous black and dirty paws which were thrust into the mess ;
and every one of which was imitating the older to the best of its
ability.
" We thank you, we have already dined," Allen hastened io
add ; and then he spoke in English to me.
"It is not always policy to show the disgust that you feel at an
invitation to dine with a Mestizo. He asks us to eat from motives
of the purest courtesy, and you must, in this country, decline
with the same grace with which an invitation is extended. These
people have never eaten or been taught to eat with spoons, or
knives and forks, and they consider them as useless as some of
A MESTIZO MEAL. 231
our countrymen seem to think butter-knives are. Some Ameri
cans, you well know, are none too clean at the table, or at their
work ; so don t despise these natives for doing what their grand
fathers did before them.
I felt rebuked, and no longer regarded the group with disgust,
but with interest. All were fair and impartial at the bowl.
Even the smallest children had as free a chance at the rice as the
largest boy, and an infant was only rebuked when it attempted to
crawl into the vessel, and cover itself with the food. And the
rebuke was received without a murmur from the little one.
There was no yelling with passion, and compromises by allowing
even a foot to remain in the bowl to keep the young one quiet.
The Mestizos are too sensible for that, and I don t think that dur
ing my whole stay on the island I ever heard a child indulge in a
protracted cry, or give way to such gusts of passion as are com
mon with European or American children. Yet they receive not
half the attention, and are allowed to herd with the dogs and chase
the chickens at leisure. Their life, until they are ten years of
age, is one of freedom from medicine and schools. Once or
twice a day they are taken to the river, washed, and taught to
swim ; and they take to the water as readily as ducks. Their
fondness for it they never forget, and even the workmen, who
toil from daylight till dark, will seek the river after the fatigues
of the day, and refresh their bodies with a swim.
" Where is the coffee you promised me? " I asked of Allen, tir
ing at length of seeing the family devour their rice.
" That will be here when the landlord has completed his meal,
cind not before," replied my friend. " The hosts of this country
are as independent as in America ; although here they are to be
seen occasionally, while at home they are not known except to
newspaper correspondents. Have patience, for I see that my
friend begins to falter, as though he is nearly filled. A few more
balls, and he will be finished and ready to serve us."
The result proved that Allen s surmises were correct. The
head of the family sighed, then watched his young ones for a few
minutes, as they continued to throw the rice into their mouths
with renewed ardor, and at length arose and stood before us.
" Senors," he said, " what shall i serve you with? "
" Are you sure that you have done eating ? " Allen asked.
" Quite sure, scnors ; I am as full now as a sugar-sack."
232 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
i,
11 Then bring us coffee and cigars ; and mind that the former
is strong and the latter mild. You understand?"
" Of course I do ; have I not kept a hotel from my youth, and
did not my father keep one before me?"
The Mestizo looked as dignified in his shirt and loose trousers,
and feet hardened by constant contact with the earth, as Ameri.
can landlords, dressed in fine clolh, patent-leather boots, and dia
mond pin. Our host clapped his hands, and one of his numerous
daughters awaited his commands.
44 Coffee and cigars for my friends," he repeated.
In a few minutes the fragrant -beverage made its appearance in
large brown-ware cups, manufactured in the country, and used in
all the native houses.
44 There," said Allen, " taste and drink coffee for the first time."
I did so, and although the coffee was destitute of milk, and
was sweetened with coarse brown sugar, yet I never tasted any
thing more delicious. As we drank, a dreaming, half-forgetful
feeling took possession of us, and we leaned back and gave full
play to the fancies which crowded upon our brains. I thought
that my wife was present, and smiling through the clouds of to
bacco smoke which filled the room from our cigars, and more than
once I was on the point of speaking to her ; yet felt that the
sound of my voice would dispel the illusion, and she would van
ish. I could see our host moving about the room, and once he
replenished our cups when he found that they were empty, and
would have done so again had not Allen spoke, and thus roused
me from my stupor.
44 It is time that we were on our way home," he said.
I looked at my watch, and found that it was within a few min
utes of eight.
u Is it possible that we have been here an hour and a half? " I
asked.
44 Ah, senor," cried the Mestizo, 44 that is but a short time io
devote to my coffee. Some gentlemen stay here for hours, and
swallow many cup, and yet go away unsatisfied. You have done
very well for new beginners, but I hope to see you both here
often."
Allen slipped a four-real piece in his hand, and the landlord
gave vent to many expressions of gratitude. lie escorted us to
our horses, and wished the saints would have us in their keeping
THE AMBUSH. 233
on our ride home ; and even the young, girl who witnessed our
bathing exploits hoped that we would soon return for another
swim.
The night was magnificent. Not a cloud was to be seen in the
heavens, and the moon looked down upon us with tropical bright
ness. A cool breeze came from the mountains, and the air was
so pure and clear that the barking of a village dog could be heard
for miles. We were so enchanted with the scene that we su r
fered our horses bridles to fall upon their necks, and plodded
along at as slow a pace as they pleased.
For a few miles we jogged on in silence.
" Hark ! " cried Allen, suddenly, stopping his horse ; " I thought
that I heard a shrill whistle."
" And I heard the same ; but it is not an uncommon event.
The only thing that would surprise me would be to hear some one
whistle Yankee Doodle at this time of night. I should certainly
think that we were within hailing distance of a countryman."
Allen paid no attention to my remarks, for while I was speak
ing, directly ahead of us, in a small clump of trees and under
brush a shrill whistle was sounded, and then all was still.
" There is a meaning to that," my friend said.
" Of course there is," I replied, with a laugh at his serious face.
" A Mestizo has lost his dog or his buffalo, and is searching
for them."
" Your theory is a good one, but I can t believe it. Natives
never whistle when looking for cattle, and dogs don t desert their
masters. Let us turn from this road, strike across the paddy
fields, and leave that cluster of suspicious-looking trees far in the
rear. The hour is late, and few travellers of respectability are
abroad at this time."
" Still thinking of native treachery and assassination," I said,
laughing. " Do you suspect that there is a Mestizo within ten
miles of us who would dare to come within range of our revol
vers this bright night? Let us keep the road, and only leave it
after our pistols are empty."
" O, if you have your pistol with you, that is a different thing,"
remarked Allen. " I left mine at the house by accident, and I
thought you were as bad off as myself. Come on, but be careful
how you aim."
234 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v,
He started his horse, but the aspect of affairs had undergone a
sudden change, and I began to feel a doubt of our security.
" Wait one moment," I said ; " while I was speaking so boldly
I imagined that you were the person who was armed, and to your
valor I was willing to trust myself. It seems that you have beeu
as careless as I, and ventured out unarmed, ^ow, I am not natu
rally of a suspicious disposition, but if you have no objections
we will adopt your suggestions and*cut across the paddy fields.
By that means we may save our throats from close contact with a
knife."
To my surprise Allen did not seem to heed me. In fact he
alleged his horse to trot slowly towards the brush, and as I did
not want to be left alone, I struck my animal a light blow with
my heavy riding-whip, one end of which was loaded with lead,
and in three seconds was alongside of him.
" I thought that you were in favor of the paddy fields," I re
marked.
" So I was until my curiosity got aroused, and now I am de
termined to see if there is design in that whistle. If a party of
ladrones is around, they will keep at a respectful distance. But
if others "
He did not have time to say more, for just at that moment we
entered the wood, and before our animals were concealed by the
trees, I heard a rustling noise in the bushes, and forth sprang two
tall Mestizos with long knives in their hands. The natives
jumped towards my horse s head, and one laid a hand upon my
bridle. The animal, surprised at the movement, reared and
swerved, and, luckily for me, in the direction of the Mestizo who
had not touched my bridle ; for the latter, with as good will as I
ever saw depicted upon the face of mortal, aimed a blow at me
with his knife, that just grazed my left leg, and struck the pom
mel of the saddle. The villain intended the cut for my heart,
and nothing but the movement of the horse disarranged his well-
meant plans.
I was somewhat surprised, but did not lose all my presence of
mind. I had seen the gleam of the knife in the moonlight, and
tried to avoid the blow, but the Mestizo was too quick for me.
Hardly, however, had his knife touched the saddle than I had
raised my riding-whip, and with a full swing I let the loaded
part fall upon the ruffian s shoulder. The blow fell heavily, and I
THE ATTACK. 235
heard a crushing sound, that told of broken bones and bruised
flesh. The fellow uttered a furious oath, and called to his compan
ion to stab quick and fly ; to do him justice, the latter s intentions
were good enough, for he flourished his knife most wickedly, and
then directed it towards me with a swing that told of much prac
tice in that particular line ; but I had no notion of making my body
a target ; and, as I found that my horse could not move quick
enough, I vacated my saddle by slipping off; and hardly had I
touched the ground before the animal made a sudden spring,
snorted wildly, and then I heard a sound like running water, and
with a quiver the beast fell to the ground. The blow that was
aimed at my head had pierced the horse.
" Vamose ! " shouted the fellow whose shoulder I had disabled,
turning his back, and starting to run towards the paddy fields.
" Not till I have had a clip at you," I heard Allen shout ; and
looking up saw that he had dismounted, and was swinging hi3
riding-whip, similar to mine, over his head.
Then I heard a blow that seemed to have crushed as it fell, and
one of the midnight assassins dropped and groaned as though he
was badly hurt.
" Don t let the other escape ! " shouted Allen, starting after
him on the full run, followed by myself.
We dashed through a quantity of underbrush, and then caught
sight of the fugitive running at good speed over the paddy fields,
in the direction of the river, where he undoubtedly had a banco
concealed.
"We are gaining on him," shouted Allen, putting on more
speed, and jumping over the small ridges which mark all paddy
fields for the purpose of holding the water ; and then for ten
minutes we continued the pursuit, until we could hear the wretch
pant- as he labored along, and struggled for breath.
" Ho, ladrone ! stop, or we will kill you as you run," my frieud
exclaimed ; but the Mestizo was cunning enough to know that if
we had had pistols we should have used them before ; so he mere
ly glanced over his shoulder to see how near we were to him, and
was about to redouble his exertions, when his foot caught a
vine, and down he went, falling heavily. He sprang to his feet
in an instant ; but by this time we were upon him, and a cut
across the face that started drops of blood, and left a livid ridge
upon his cheeks, once more caused him. to fall upon the ground,
236 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v.
where lie lay and prayed for mercy, as only a Mestizo defeated
in his infernal plans can.
" Dog ! what prompted you to attempt our assassination ? "
shouted Allen, plying his whip with hearty good will upon the
form of the fallen man.
" Mercy, senor, and I will tell you all ! " the wretch exclaimed,
seeking to avoid the blows.
Allen suspended his punishment, and allowed the Mestizo to
stand upon his feet, first taking the precaution to see that his
knifa was gone.
"What was your object in thus seeking our lives?" Allen
asked, as we led the way to the scene of the outrage, having tied
the fellow s hands behind him, with our pocket handkerchiefs, to
prevent his escape.
" Ah, senor, we were directed not to molest you unless you in
terfered in our work," was the answer.
" And did you suppose that I should stand by and see you
butcher my friend without offering my aid?" demanded Allen,
indignantly.
" We were told that such would be the case, senor," answered
the fellow, meekly.
u Ladrone, you are not speaking the truth," said Allen, fiercely.
" By the saints I am, senor," answered the fellow, with appar
ent sincerity.
"And you expected to kill my friend did you?" Allen
asked.
4 W^e were in hopes that we should, senor," answered the fel
low, with a degree of candor that surpassed all belief.
" What harm have I done that you should seek my life?" I
asked, scanning the man s features to see if I had ever met with
him before. His countenance was not familiar, and I was com
pelled to entertain an impression that Father Juan had set the
men upon my track for the purpose of carrying out the great
scheme, which he had long entertained, of inducing my wife to
resign her property and enter his convent.
u You have never injured us, senor; but there is a person in
Manila who thirsts for your blood ; you have crossed him in some
way, and he never forgets an injury."
" His*name?" demanded Allen, confronting the fellow.
" That, senor, I can t divulge."
A REVELATION OR DEATH. 237
u Then you have your choice of a speedy - death by pistol
or hanging from the limb of a tree. Think quick, and give us
an answer."
"You don t think of carrying your threats .into execution?"
I asked in English : " let us surrender them to the law, and let
the law deal with them."
" The law is a humbug, and you will think so if you ever have
occasion to invoke its aid," Allen answered. " I intend to make
this fellow reveal all that he knows, and yet I shan t harm hire
a great deal, as you will confess. I think that I know who set
them on, and if my suspicions are realized, we shall hold a trump
card."
The Mestizo looked first at Allen and then at myself, while we
were talking, as if he were endeavoring to comprehend the mean
ing of our words. He seemed to think that we were in earnest
with our threats, for he answered in a resigned tone,
" I can die ; but I will not reveal the name of the person who
engaged us."
" Then die you shall," was the only answer that Allen made,
and we walked on in stern silence till we reached the scene of the
struggle, where lay the dead horse, and the uniujured one stand
ing over him, as though grieving for his loss.
Allen secured the animal, and then we looked for the body of
the villain whose shoulder I had smashed with my whip. To our
surprise he had vanished, and this elicited a chuckle from the
prisoner.
"Ah, Antonio is tough, senors, and the arm must be strong
that can make an impression upon him. He has escaped, but
I can find him if paid for it."
The wretch was all ready to sell his* comrade for gold, and a
smail sum at that.
" He can t be far off," Allen remarked. " Take a portion of
the bridle from your horse, and tie this fellow, and then we will
search for the missing one. He is probably concealed in the
underbrush, for no man could travel far after receiving such
blows, unless his frame is made of cast iron."
We secured our prisoner to a tree, disbelieving his protesta
tions that he would not attempt to escape ; then we examined the
place where the ladrone had fallen. We saw that he had made
several attempts to get on his feet, but he had not succeeded ; for
238 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
^
we found a trail in the dust where he had crawled on his hands
and feet towards the brush by the side of the road, and a few
steps brought us upon the fellow, his face covered with blood, and
a large gash upon his head, that did not look promising for his
speedy recovery. He was nearly insensible, and as there was not
the slightest danger of his leaving the place in a hurry, we left
him and returned to the other prisoner, Who had suffered no harm
beyond, smashing the bones of his right shoulder
" My comrade has escaped," the prisoner, still bound to the
tree, exclaimed, when he saw us return so soon. " I told you
that his head was hard, and that no impression could be made
upon it."
" You are mistaken," Allen answered, quite composedly, with
out even looking at the man. " Your brother assassin is nearly
dead, and probably before morning he will cease to live."
" Dead dying ! " echoed the fellow, apparently astonished at
the intelligence.
He remained silent for a few moments, and then spoke :
" If he is dying money can be of no use to him. Won t you
just search his pockets, and bring me the doubloon that you will
find there. It is mine by right, for he lost that amount of money
to me by betting on a cock-fight yesterday."
" You can see how much love one Mestizo has for another,"
Allen remarked in English, while busily arranging some portions
of the bridles by knotting them together.
We paid no attention to the request of our prisoner, although
two or three times he repeated his demand that we would be kind
enough to hand him the money found in the pockets of his com
rade. At length our silence and proceedings seemed to strike the
Mestizo with a mysterious feeling, which he tried to banish by
humming a song that was very popular, in those days, with all
classes of the community ; but his eyes followed our movements,
nevertheless.
" Senors," he asked, " what do you intend to do with me? "
We returned no answer, but threw one end of the bridles over
the limb of a tree, and made a slip-noose with the other.
" Senors," continued our prisoner, his assurance gradually de
serting him, " if you let me escape, I will never raise a hand
against you again."
" We don t intend you shall," Allen remarked. " In a short
FORCING A SECRET. 239
time you will be in the other world ; so, if you have any prayers
to address to the saints, you had better begin them."
" You will not dare to kill me? " asked the fellow.
u Why should we not serve you in the same inanner that you
attempted to serve us? We must learn who paid you for thus
assaulting us, or we must have your life," was the quiet answer ;
and Allen lasted the strength of the gallows by swinging on it for
a moment.
" Why, senors, would you have me damned for revealing my
secret ? "
" We care not whether you are damned or blessed ; we wiii
know who hired you," I remarked.
" Senors, I cannot tell," was the decided answer.
" I am fearful that we shall have to pinch his throat a little,"
Allen said in English. " But don t be alarmed," he continued,
" even if you see him strangle ; he won t die without giving us
the information that we seek."
Allen untied his horse, and led him in front of the Mestizo.
" Cast off all his bonds excepting those which confine his
hands," my friend said.
I did as directed. The prisoner looked wild, and stared first
at my friend and then at myself.
" Now mount the horse," Allen ordered ; but the Mestizo was
unable to do so, owing to his hands being tied. I stepped behind
him, and lifted him upon the animal s back.
" Ah ! you intend to carry me to the city do you? " the fellow
asked, his confidence returning.
We did not venture an answer, but backed the horse until the
bridle, suspended from the tree, touched the man s head. He
looked up, and saw the noose dangling over him ; but even then
he had some thought that we were only frightening him. He tried
to smile, but the attempt was a wretched one.
" Senors," he said, " you had better take me to the city ; or
give me your horse, and I ll go alone. I know the way by land
as well as by water."
Allen made no answer. He merely took the noose and dropped
it over the man s head, and then pulled it tight around his neck.
The fellow s eyes for the first time began to express the. terroi
which he felt.
240 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
k
" What do you intend to do?" he gasped, struggling to with
draw his hands from the bandages.
* Only hang you. Keep perfectly quiet, and you will experi
ence an unknown sensation in a few seconds. I don t think it
will hurt you much," Allen remarked, lighting a cigar and hand
ing me one, for the purpose of making the fellow think that we
were remarkably cool about the execution.
" Senors ," cried the Mestizo, after a moment s pause, " I am
not fond of sensations. Why won t you let my comrade, who is
half dead, hang instead of me. He is of no use to the world,
while I have two daughters in Manila. They will mourn
for me."
" What are their names?" I demanded, prompted to ask the
question by a feeling which I could not control.
" Sara and Gracia," was the answer.
Here was a confession. We were about to hang, in jest, the
father of my new protegee, whom I had picked up near the
Morgue. It was evident* that he did not know that his eldest
daughter was dead, and I was not disposed to enlighten him in
relation to the matter.
" We are very sorry to be compelled to hang you," Allen re
marked, after I had explained in English the true position of
affairs ; " but our future safety requires that you should die, or
disclose the names of the parties who incited you to commit the
crime of murder. You have but a minute to live. Call upon
the saints in season, for it s the last time that you can address
them."
" I can t reveal, senors," was the answer.
Allen touched the horse, and the animal stepped forward a few
feet, sufficient to bring the noose tight around the neck of the
Mestizo.
u Hold on," he gasped ; " I ll tell all, if you will save my life."
" Go on with your confession, then," Allen remarked.
" But remove the rope first," the Mestizo pleaded.
" No ; what you have to confess must be said as you are. We
have gone to considerable trouble for the purpose of hanging you
comfortably, and we had little rather do it than save your life
at this late hour. But even now, if you don t tell the truth, your
neck is not worth the price of a betel nut."
" Then swear, senors, that my life shall be spared, and I ll tell
A CONFESSION. 241
all," the Mestizo cried, glad to make terms whea he really sup
posed that \ue preferred his life to a confession.
" You have the word of two gentlemen. We do not bind our
selves with oaths," was Allen s reply.
" Well, then, please give me a cigar," the Mestizo said, with
characteristic impudence.
I handed the -fellow a cigar, when he lighted it aod adjusted it
to his mouth with considerable precision, and then commenced
his confession.
" This forenoon, senors, a man applied to us, and wanted to
know if we desired a good job. We were lying in our banco at
the time, opposite the European Hotel, waiting for passengers.
I answered that we were always ready to earn money, provided
we could do it honestly. Our visitor did not seem pleased with
the reply, and at length my comrade said that he never re-
fysed a job of any kind. The stranger smiled at this, and
asked us to follow him a short distance, so we could talk with
out fear of being overheard. He led the way to a "\yine shop, and
called foT drink, and we did not hesjtate to swallow all that he
set before us. Why should we, as long as he paid for it? and he
seemed to have plenty of money. At length the stranger handed
to us a doubloon, and said that two more would be given us if
we obeyed his orders. We took the money eagerly, and then
asked what the job was. We were told that it was necessary
for the good of the church that a heretic should die, and that, if
we committed, the deed, the saints would not only pardon, but
bless us. I asked who the person was, and the stranger said
that he was an American, endeavoring to damn people s souls by
converting them to Protestantism. Then I felt that we should
be justified in killing, and my comrade seemed to be of my way of
thinking. We asked to see the one we were to despatch, and the
stranger said that he woidd point him out to us when the time
arrived. Then we drank* more wine, and swore that we would
kill not only the person whom the stranger desired we should
kill, but everybody else who had offended him, and yet retain his
secret. You see, senors, we were not thinking of the ropes around
our necks, or the heavy blows which you deal out with whip-
handles. Caramla! you have broken the bone in my shoulder,
and my comrade s head two things we did not expect."
" Go on with your confession," Allen said, sternly.
16
242 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Si, senor" the fellow answered, more humbly, and con
tinued :
" We were told to go on board of our banco again, and push
up the river a short distance and wait there, concealed from ob
servation by some bushes. The stranger went with us. and this
afternoon a banco passed us, on board of which were a priest and
three gentlemen. Yon, senor (pointing to Allen), we knew by
sight, but the other two were strangers to us. You (nodding to
me) waS the one we were to kill, and we were strictly charged
not to fail, even if we had to wait a week to accomplish the job.
The saints be praised," the hypocrite continued, " we failed in our
designs."
"Then you followed us to the factory did you?" Allen
asked.
"Of course we never lost sight of you except for a few
minutes, although you did not see us, for the very good reason
that we kept in the background. When you started for the ride,
we followed on the same road, certain you would have to return
that way ; but you came near getting clear, after all."
" How so?" I asked.
" Why, when you first appeared in sight, my comrade was
some distance from me, looking for stray travellers, and trying a
little robbing on his own account. He is a man never satisfied
with doing well, but wants to do better. I had to repeat the
signal several times before he would attend me. If he had not
come, you might have gone clear, for I don t like attacking Euro
peans alone."
" Now for another question," Allen said. " Who was the man
who paid you for attempting to kill my friend ? "
The Mestizo hesitated, but the horse moved a little and brought
the halter tighter around the fellow s throat.
^ For the saints sake, don t," he gasped, struggling so violently
that he but tightened the band, and tortured himself.
" The name," demanded Allen, quite cool, and deaf to all his
Bufferings.
" Let me but breathe, then," the Mestizo gasped.
I touched the horse, and he stepped back a few inches, sufficient
to allow the man to move his head.
" The saints forbid that I should ever die by hanging," was
the fervent prayer. " There are other deaths which are much
A SIGNAL.
243
more to be preferred. The knife, for instance, only inflicts one
pang, in theliands of a skilful artist, and then life ebbs away so
quietly that it resembles sleep. Poison is very^good in difficult
eases, where the victim can t be got at easily ; but it ain t sure, like
tthe knife, since those English and Dutch doctors have settled in
Manila. The knife never fails, if a man will only take th^
trouble of carrying a whetstone in his pocket. I even prefer it to
a pistol."
" Why, you wretch, we did not spare your life to listen to e long
dissertation on murder," I said, although I must confess that I
was somewhat amused at the philosophical manner in which he
treated the subject ; but I had no doubt he* was competent to judge,
if the number of his crimes was taken into consideration.
Allen looked at his watch, and found that it was near nine
o clock.
" We shall be missed at the factory, and they will feel anxious
regarding us unless we are home in a short time," he said. " We
can no longer play with this man. He must reveal his secret at
once, for at any time we are liable to be surprised by a band of
prowling ladrones, and they will certainly rescue this fellow, and
make a stand against us ; and what could we do without revol
vers?" 9
As I didn t know, I made no answer.
" Come," said Allen, turning to the Mestizo, " we want the
name of the party who hired you to assassinate my friend."
The scamp was just about to answer and give us the informa
tion, when from the direction of the river was heard a peculiar
cry which resembled the " craw " of a parrot. Our prisoner
pricked up his ears and listened eagerly, and to my surprise Allen
did the same.
" The name," demanded my friend.
Instead of replying, the Mestizo opened his mouth and uttered
a shrill " craw" which could have been heard, in that calm, moon
light night, for half a mile or more.
" Dog ! " thundered Allen ; " if you make another signal you
shall hang by your neck, even if the ladrones are in sight. You
can t escape giving us the information. Let us have it at once."
The Mestizo seemed to be paying more attention to the signals
from the river than to us. Again we heard the peculiar cry, and
this time much nearer to us. The prisoner raised his head, and
244 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
was about to answer, when Allen suddenly started the horse,
and the halter was brought tight around the fellow s neck ; and
instead of producing a craw, he found it somewhat difficult to
obtain breath. He struggled fearfully to free his arms, but, as
before, was unsuccessful.
" The name," cried Allen, making a motion to start the horse,
and leave the man dangling in the air.
I saw that we had conquered. I could tell by the expression
of his face that his stock of fortitude was exhausted, and that he
was willing to submit to our wishes. The horse, which per
formed a very important part that night, was backed a few steps,
and the halter loosed around the man s neck.
" Now, then, what is his name?" demanded Allen, hurriedly.
" Father Juan, of the convent of San Sebastian," was the
answer.
" Did he give any reason for wishing for my friend s death? "
Allen asked.
" Only the reasons which I have stated," was the answer.
" He said that you were not only his enemies, but enemies of the
church ; that the saints would thank us for killing you, and that
for so doing he would grant us full absolution."
" Did he mention the name of a lady,Muring the conversation? "
I asked, eagerly.
" He did not, senor ; but the night before "
He stopped suddenly, for at that moment, within a few rods of
us, arose the doleful " hoots " which we had noticed before.
" We must make our escape while we can," whispered Allen.
" A gang of river laclrones are prowling around, and if they find
us so far from the factory, and unarmed, our watches and prob
ably our lives will not be safe. With a couple of revolvers we
could scatter them like chaff; but alas ! those are safe, like the
Dutchman s anchor, at home."
Our prisoner was inclined to be jolly at the prospect of a sud
den liberation, for although he did not dare to speak a loud word,
yet he hummed his favorite tune, and seemed to flatter himself
that we should soon change places. .
There was no time to lose, if we meant to escape, for the
laclrones must have heard our prisoner s signal, and knew that
it proceeded from the only clump of bushes and trees to be seen
for two or three miles, the rest of the ground being covered with
OBTAINING INFORMATION. Page 244.
THE LADjfcONES. 245
paddy fields and grazing tracts. They also knew that there was
occasion for their services, or the peculiar signal by which they
called each other would" never have been given. As the river
thieves were all bound together by ties of dishonest brotherhood,
it was to be expected that they would help each other from dis
agreeable positions, and revenge ill treatment if in their power.
I did not feel much alarmed at our position, for I knew that the
scamps seldom carried fire-arms, and that they would be very
careful how they approached us, until they found out that we
were destitute of those very useful articles ; and ^.ven if they did
make the discovery, I was in hopes of keeping them and their
knives at a distance by the use of our legs, or our heavy whips.
It s no disgrace to run away from a fight, when the enemy muster
four or five to one.
" What are we to do?" I asked of Allen, who seemed to be
deliberating on the matter.
" I don t know, unless we hang the fellow, and escape on horse
back. If we leave him here alive, he will tell in which direction
we have gone, and join them in pursuit, like a blood-hound that
he is. I don t want to kill the man, and yet I see no other way
of leaving this position," my friend remarked.
" I have it ! " I cried. " Let us tie the fellow upon the horse s
back, and start the animal towards the factory at its best speed.
The ladrones will give chase, and by that means we may
escape."
" Admirable ! " cried Allen. 4C We could not hit upon a wiser
plan. Hold the horse while I tie the fellow s legs under the ani- .
mal s belly."
He took- a portion of a bridle, and in a few seconds the Mestizo
was secured, although much against his will, and it required a
few energetic threats of punishment to keep him still.
" Now," cried Allen, " let go of the horse, and apply your
whip to his hind quarters. Don t be afraid to strike hard, for on
his speed depends our safety."
He raised his whip as he spoke, and showered down a number
of blows ; and I think that, from the yell which I heard, a few of
them fell upon the legs of the Mestizo.
The horse, unaccustomed to such treatment, reared wildly ;. but
the rider kept his seat, and the next instant the animal dashed
along the road leading to the factory at pretty good speed. We
246 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v
watched his course but for a moment, and then Allen touched ma
on the shoulder, and whispered,
" Follow me."
I did not wait for a second invitation. With a bound I cleared
the road, and alighted in a clump of bushes ; and just as I
alighted, half a dozen men came in sight, and looked eagerly for
the person whose signals they had answered.
" Don t stir for your life," whispered Allen. " The best of the
gang has gone in pursuit of the horse, and the rest are searching
for booty. They are old hands, or we should be clear of them."
It was even as my friend had said, for we could hear the voices
of those in pursuit of the horse, away in the distance, and they
seemed to be communicating to the men who were near us, that
a ruse had been employed to send them off.
The ladrones passed within six feet of us, their black, suspicious
eyes glancing to the right and left as they scanned the bushes,
apparently in expectation of finding a foe or plunder. They were
too cowardly to search the bushes immediately, fearing treachery ;
but every moment they seemed to gather more courage, and how
long before they would pounce upon us, was a question that was
not settled to our minds satisfactorily. Had we but carried our
revolvers, we could have frightened them, and pursued our way
to the factory unmolested.
Suddenly the party stopped in front of the dead horse, and a short
conversation ensued, in the Mestizo tongue, which but few Span
iards understand ; therefore the natives have great advantages
for the concocting of plots, and planning little acts of rascality. I
could not understand a word of the lingo ; but Allen was some
what acquainted with it, and listened eagerly to the discussion.
, u This is a factory horse, " said the fellow, whom we supposed
te be the chief of the party. " I know it by the brand upon its
right flank. How came it here, and dead at that ? "
" Perhaps one of our gang stole the animal, and being pursued,
was .compelled to kill it to save himself from capture," was the
answer.
" That is not a likely story," was the contemptuous rejoinder }
and he was about to offer a further solution of the mystery, when
the wretch whose head Allen had smashed uttered a deep groan,
as though life was a burden to him.
The gang were all ready to run, for fear that the sound was a
THE LADRONES. 247
signal for attack ; but the chief cursed them in set terms for their
cowardice, and after a moment s delay he boldly ventured alone
to tV.e spot where the wounded man was lying, and dragged him
to the middle of the road.
" There, you fools," he said ; " is that an object to run for?"
He dropped the body suddenly, and the rough treatment pro
duced another groan, which caused the gang to gather around in
search of his injuries.
" He has been robbed," cried one.
".No such thing," returned the chief, slipping his hands into
the man s pockets, and rifling them with wonderful dexterity.
" Whoever heard of a man being robbed, and left with money in
his pockets? Look and see if any of you know him."
They stood one side, so that the moon would strike upon the
face, and reveal his features more distinctly.
" I know him," cried one ; " he is a barcario, and a bold man.
Many a fdt one has he plucked, and many a weak one pinched."
" Then he belongs with us, and we must find those who injured
him. S.earch the busli in couples, and do the work thoroughly."
The^ men scattered in obedience to the orders of their chief, and
a portion of them came towards us.
" Now, then," said Allen, " we must run for it, or lose our lives.
Put your best foot forward, and let us^keep together."
For a few steps we moved without breaking a twig, and if we
could have continued on in that manner, our escape would have
been assured ; but unfortunately Allen caught his foot in a vine
and fell, and the accident, slight as it was, caused him to give
vent to an imprecation that was heard by the ladrones, although
they could not see us.
" They are here," was shouted, not daring to advapce until
the whole gang was together, for they knew they had to deal with .
Americans or Englishmen, and that if we had pistols we would
scorn to run.
" On them, then, with your knives," cried the chief. " They
have no pistols, or they would have used them Ion- since. A
fa ; ? division of plunder shall be made if they have money/"
" Now, then," said Allen, " let her slide. Strike out and do
your bist."
We had gradually increased our distance from the ladronea
while they were waiting for each other, and by the time they
248 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
i,
were ready for the rush we were clear of the brush and trees, and
upon the paddy fields. The latter are not favorable for running,
owing to the low ridges, generally about a rod apart, and wlich
I have already spoken of; but the ground was as fair for us as
the ladrones, so that we had no cause to grumble on that account.
The only thing we could complain of was because so many
were after us, thus offering large odds that we should be over
taken and lanced by a short knife before we could reach a place
of safety.
The devils uttered a shrill cry when they caught sight of. us,
and then started in pursuit, probably with the expectation of
running us down in a few minutes, for they put on their best
speed, and tore away at a tremendous rate.
. " Don t run as fast as you can yet a while," Allen said, seeing
that I was drawing ahead of him. " We have got over a mile to
go before we can reach the factory, and must have some breath
for the home stretch. Govern your pace by mine."
I did so, but he soon found that more steam was required, for
the Mestizos can run when trained, as they are thin and destitute
of surplus fat, as a general thing. I glanced over my shqjildcr,
and saw that the scoundrels were bounding over the ridges like
deer, and, what was worse, were actually gaining upon us.
The devils even had their, knives in their hands ready for use
when within striking distance. I could see them flash in the
moonlight as they were waved in the air. What would I not
have given for my revolver at that moment? Even as shaken as
my nerves were, I could have put four of the seven, who were in
pursuit, hors de combat, as fast as I could take aim. I even mut
tered my thoughts, and Allen overheard them.
" Blast your wishes," he said, rather unkindly. " What s the
use of wishing now? If wishing was any good, I d wish for a
pair of seven-leagued boots, and be thankful for the favor. Cuss
their pictures, how they do run ! Let out more speed, for I see
that one of the rascals is not far from us."
I did make my feet move a little faster, and for a few seconds
we held our own ; but the ladrones still crowded us, and came on
yelling like so many hounds.
" Ah, blast you ; yell and expand your breath, if you will. I
wish that you would burst a blood-vessel, or break your necks, I
Bheuldn t care much which."
THE LADRONES. 249
" No use wishing," I replied, glancing over my shoulder, and
redoubling my exertions, when I saw the foremost scamp was
close upon us, and puffing like a locomotive under a full head of
steam.
" Let him come," muttered Allen, who had also taken a look at
our pursuers ; " if I don t sweeten his head for him may T never
smoke another cigar."
He shook his heavy riding-whip, which useful articles both of
us.had retained possession of, and, to my surprise, my friend rath
er slackened his pace, as though tired.
" For Heaven s sake don t lag," I said, fearful that his strength
was yielding. " See, the old factory is in sight. A few minutes
more and we shall be safe. We can t make a stand here, and
beat them off."
" I know.it," was the quiet answer. " Do you keep out of the
way of that fellow s knife, and leave him to me. I intend to
make his head ache by a few blows, or there s no virtue in lead
and a- stout arm."
The foremost ladrone was within ten feet of us, while his com
rades were as much as twenty feet behind him. The leading rob
ber apparently prided himself upon his speed, for he bounded along
as easily as though he was good for two miles. He evidently ex
pected to use his knife to advantage, for he flourished it, and yelled
like a demon when he saw that he was gaining on us.
I diverged a little to the right, so that we could bring the fel
low between us ; and by that means he was compelled to single
out one of us for the attack. I won t say that I was pleased when
I saw that he decided to try Allen first, because I was not ; but I
felt as though the fellow would find his match, and I determined
to lend my own assistance in teaching him a lesson always to be
remembered.
I managed to keep one eye upon the ladrone and one upon Al
len, and when I thought that the time had arrived for action, I
slackened my pace slightly, so that the Mestiza was brought a lit
tle in advance of me, and I had the appearance of pursuing him
instead of his pursuing me. The fellow, in his eagerness to strike
Allen, overlooked me, or possibly thought his companions would
attend to my case. I saw Allen measuring the distance between
himself and the ladrone, and it looked to me that with one more
leap the ladrone would be up with him. I saw the latter raise
250 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
his knife, and then uttered a shout of triumph as though sure of
his victim ; but never was a man more disappointed, for just as
the knife was descending, Allen sprang aside, and thus avoided
the blow. The Mestizo stumbled forward, but before he could
recover himself, the loaded whip was whirling in the air, and down
it came with force enough to kill an ox. The Mestizo plunged
headlong to the ground, and when I passed him, all ready to give
a second edition of what he had received, he was lying per
fectly quiet, with his head doubled up under his arm, as though
he was asleep.
" You did well," I panted, as I struggled to gain Allen s side.
u His skull is broken, certain, and all the surgeons in Manila can t
save him."
" Save your breath," grunted Allen, " for I think that you will
want it before we get out of this scrape. Blast ena, how fast
they run ! "
I expected that the ladrones would certainly stop to pay some
attention to their comrade ; but with characteristic selfishness
they passed the poor devil as though he was unworthy of no
tice. To be sure they did raise a shout, which betokened a desire
for revenge ; but we thought nothing of it, as we were pretty cer
tain that they would punish us if they could get hold of us, even
without the shout.
4t A few steps farther and we shall be out of danger ! " I said,
to my great joy looking up and observing half a dozen men about
a hundred rods ahead of us, apparently waiting with patience to
see what the race was all about. I supposed they were servants
connected with the factory, and they were attracted outside of the
walls by the cries which they had heard.
The laclrones apparently saw the men as soon as myself, for
they raised a peculiar yell, and it was answered by those who I
supposed were factory people. I expected every moment that the
pursui; would be abandoned, but to my extreme surprise, when I
glanced -over my shoulder, I saw that the Mestizos were running
as fast as ever.
" Here they come towards us," I remarked, as well as my
breath would permit, pointing to the men in the distance. " A
few moments more and we shall be with them."
"I hope not," replied Allen, altering his course and edging
THE RACE FOR LIFE. 251
away towards the river, so as to leave those in front of us at a
greater distance than those in the rear.
" They are not factory people," he continued, after a moment s
pause. " They are the other portion of the. gang, who went in
chase of the horse. If we are not in luck then, I ll be "
He did not stop to finish his sentence, for we saw that both
parties were coming for us at a tearing rate, and as the men
who were fresh were likely to outrun us, our situation was none
of the most pleasant. We edged away more towards the river,
leaving the house on our right hand, and as we drew past it we
could see a light in the dining-room, where, but a few hours be
fore, we were feasting in peace and security. How we were to
escape from our foes was a mystery to me, for if we plunged into
the river we should be no safer than on land, as a Mestizo can
swim from the age of six, or even earlier.
" Can you hold out a few minutes longer?" asked Allen, as we
dashed along, stumbling, or jumping over ridges, and using our
best exertions to escape.
"I think so," was my answer, although I was not over-confi
dent, for if I had lost my footing, I should have been unable to
rise before the ladrones were upon me.
We were heading directly towards the lower end of the rope-
walk, which visitors to Santa Mesa will recollect extends along
the bank of the Pasig for about a third of a mile. Near the end
of the building were quite a number of trees, planted there for
the purpose of shading the factory, and for ornament. They
were so dense that the moon s rays were entirely excluded from
the arbor which they formed by their abundant foliage. Our
only hope of escape, I considered, was to take refuge in the grove,
and while the ladrones were searching for us, to crawl upon our
hands and knees towards the river, and swim across to the other
bank. I had but faint hope that the ruse would be successful ;
yet I considered that it was our only chance for escape from
death.
" Now, then," panted Allen, when we were within two rods
of the end of the building, " now, then, for a rush ; for every
second gained will count."
Spurred on by the hope of life, we increased our speed ; and as
we turned the corner of the building, we had the satisfaction of
seeing the ladrones two rods in the rear,
252 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
y,
" Follow me close," Allen said ; and as he spoke he applied a
key to the lock of a door, the existence of which I was igno
rant of.
The door flew open without .trouble. I sprang into the build
ing, and fell upon the floor, amidst hemp and rope ; and the next
moment Allen had closed the door, locked it, and tumbled over
me, panting as though his heart would break.
We heard the ladjjones, as they reached the end of the building,
pause, and we supposed that they were listening to discover the
direction which we took. We could hear them pant from the ef
fects of their long race, and perhaps it was well that they were as
tired as ourselves, for I certainly feared that they would hear us
breathe, although to prevent such a possibility, I stuffed some
hemp into my mouth, and liked to have smothered in conse
quence.
u Which way did they go ? " were questions freely asked ; but
no one was able to answer correctly. Some suggested that we
must have kept on direct to the river ; but the chief of the gang
did not favor Jhat theory, because the distance was so great to
the water that he argued we should have been seen. One Mes
tizo suggested that we must have climbed a tree, and he even
swore that he could see our white clothes amid the branches.
The thought was not a happy one for the scamp, for the chief
very coolly ordered him to shia up a stately bamboo, and inves
tigate. I think the fellow was a little reluctant to undertake
the job, for I heard the command issued to him twice before he
started, and I could understand the jeers which were uttered at
his expense for his reluctance, although I suppose that every
one of the gang would have manifested as much modesty had
they been ordered separately to hunt us up.
At length the fellow who had been sent up the tree, reported
that \rhat he had supposed to be a suit of white clothes waa
nothing more than the remains of a paper kite.
THE SEARCH 253
CHAPTER X.
THE SEARCH OF THE LADRONES. THE FIRE. A BAD PREDICA
MENT. LOOKING FOR A WIFE.
" WHERE could they have gone to ? " we heard the chief ask,
after the fellpw in the tree had reported.
Not a Mestizo among them could tell. They listened for a
while in the hopes of hearing our footsteps and deep breathing,
but we took care to smother our heads in hemp, and thus defeat
the plan for our detection. At length the chief sent his men off
in different directions, with orders to give a signal if any trace
of us could be obtained.
" Now is our chance," whispered Allen. " We must reach the
house while the ruffians are engaged in the search, and if we are
spry, we will return and blow the devil out of them."
We crept along the ropewalk, stumbling over spinning jennies,
or some other kind of jennies, the names of which I have entirely
forgotten, although I am positive that the articles with /emale
appellations were not females in any sense of the word, some
times getting our feet entangled in rope, and uttering an expres
sive word in consequence, until we gained the upper end of the
factory, where we had but to unfasten a door and pass from the
building without trouble.
The dogs inside of the wall, which surrounded the house, were
growling as though they snuffed danger, and were ready for it.
As soon as they heard our footsteps their yelling changed to gam
bols of joy, and with some trouble we were enabled to force our
way through the brutes, and ascend the steps leading to the dining-
room, where we heard the voice of the priest talking as freely as
when we left, three hours before. We stopped a moment to listen,
and found that Father Benventuro and Tom were arguing the
probability of our remaining absent all night.
" Don t tell me that those scamps haven t a design in staying
away from their friends this night. I know it, I tell you. They
are after some fun. It s just like them; may the devil take
254 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
^
them for their impudence. But I ll find out all about it, and then
will come their punishment."
" But I supposed they would have asked me to accompany
them, if such a thing was contemplated," insinuated Tom, in a
tone of voice that showed he concluded himself an ill-used man.
" It s because you are too pure it s because I am too pure
for such work," exclaimed the priest. " They knew that you
and I would not countenance such proceedings on the part of a
newly-married man. There s nothing in our faces that gave
them any hope that we should consent to witness tkeir immoral
conduct."
In spite of our late extremity we could not help laughing at the
idea which the priest had contrived to get into his head. The
noise aroused the drinkers, and then we burst in upon them.
u O, you old wretch ! " Allen shouted. " We can t leave you
for a moment but you must plot and play virtuous. Where are
our pistols ? We will not be slandered."
" Bless us, Charley, you ain t going to shoot a fellow for prais
ing you when your back is turned are you?" demanded Ben-
venturo, although he manifested no alarm.
" Pretty kind of praise you bestow calling us profligates and
wretches," I remarked.
" Why, you stupids, I was only exercising your friend in the
Spanish language. There are many words which he don t know
the meaning of; so I was instructing him. He will find them very
convenient, if he associates long with you."
By the time the priest had finished speaking, we had got hold
of our revolvers, and were examining the charges.
" Come," cried Allen, turning to the priest, " a party of ladrones
has had the pleasure of chasing us to-night, and now we propose
to chase them in return. Will you go with us ? "
* Do you expect me to run after the rascals ? " demanded Ben-
venturo, surveying his stout proportions with complacency. " Be
cause, if you do, you will find yourself much mistaken. My body
is fashioned like a Dutch galiot made for burden, not speed.
If there is anything to carry, I m your man ; but as for racing like
a horse, you will have to do that yourselves. But, after all, what
use is it to sally forth to-night in quest of the band? It s very
probable that they are miles from here by this time. Sit down
and make yourselves contented. Brown and myself have emptied
THE TABLES TURNED. 255
six bottles of claret and a bottle of sherry each, and we are good
for half a dozen more. Sit down, and I ll tell you some wonder
ful adventures which I experienced last night, during the shock
of the earthquake."
" We have already heard you tell lies enough on that subject,"
answered Allen, moving towards the door, " and we don t propose
to ruin your soul forever by listening to others. You can go
with us, or remain and drink until you get asleep. You will have
Ho company, for Tom goes with us."
" If that is the case, I shall go also," was the priest s remark ;
and in<i few seconds he had thrown aside his robes, and donned
a short jacket, which did not improve the appearance of his figure.
With many words from the holy father for our obstinacy in re
fusing to listen to his advice, we led the way down stairs and out
through the court-yard, beyond the walls.
" We will return the same way that we came, through the
factory, and perhaps we can take the fellows by surprise," Allen
suggested ; but the priest laughed at the idea of our capturing a
gang of ladrones, and offered a basket of champagne for every
prisoner.
We entered the factory, closing the door, after us, and then, by
the aid of a dark lantern which Allen had brought with him, we
groped our way through the ropewalk until we reached the door
we had entered an hour before, and which was the means of
saving our lives. Here we paused and listened, and to the in
tense delight of the priest, no sound but our own suppressed
breathing was to be heard.
" I told you so," he muttered ; " ladrones don t stay long in one
spot. Better go back to the house and finish a few more bottles
of wine, and listen to my adventures. Besides "
He stopped suddenly, for just at that moment there was a
crackling sound outside of the factory, and in an instant a red
light was seen through the many cracks of the edifice.
" The scoundrels have set fire to the building," cried Allen,
rushing towards the door, followed by the rest of us.
" And blast them, they want to burn me as though I was a
Protestant, or a dog," echoed Father Benventuro, knocking down
Tom in his eagerness to escape such a fate. * " Open that door,"
he continued, " or I shall curse some of you, and then the devil
will have you, certain."
256 . LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
By the time he had finished speaking, the door was thrown
open, and we rushed out ; and none too soon, for a quantity of dry
wood and hemp had been collected and placed under the factory,
and then set on fire. The flames were making rapid progress,
and in a few minutes the building would have been consumed.
I gave one glance around as I gained the air, and saw four or
five ladrones standing near a tree, surveying their devilish work
with considerable composure. We had issued from the ropevvalk
so suddenly, and they were so engrossed by the fire, that they did
not see us, and not until they heard the sharp crack of two re
volvers did they fully understand that an enemy was near.-
I saw two men give sudden springs into the air and fall heavily
to the ground, and then the remainder darted amidst the trees like
lightning, and were instantly lost to view.
" I ll have one of them ! " yelled the priest, forgetting that he
was fat and incapable of running, starting towards the spot where
the gang had stood but a moment before. He made pretty good
time for a second or two, and then his feet caught in the rank
grass, and down he went, plunging head first amidst a quantity of
bushes, each branch of which bore thorns an inch long, and sharp
at that.
I had time to listen to a volley of curses, prayers, and earnest
supplications to all of the principal saints, before I turned to assist
Allen in tearing the burning brands from beneath the building,
and trampling the fire under foot until it was extinguished. The
instant that all danger ceased, I could not refrain from giving
vent to laughter a proceeding that caused some astonishment on
Allen s part.
" Is this a laughing matter? " he asked.
"The fire is not, I ll admit," I replied; "but look in that
thorn bush, and tell me if you ever saw a priest in a worse
position."
" Help, you young devils ! " came in doleful strains from the
priest ; and as there was no danger of an attack from the ladrones,
we had time to advance towards the padre, and survey his posi
tion at leisure.
"Hallo!" cried Allen; " what are you doing there? I sup
posed you was in pursuit of a ladrone."
" Don t stop to ask questions," Father Benventuro replied,
" but help me from this cussed bush, which is as. full of thbrus as
IN A THORN BUSH. 257
a woman s frock is full of temptation and pins. I m full of punc
tures, and my body is pitted as though it had had the small-pox.
Give me yotfr hands, that s a good fellow, and assist me, for the
more I stir myself the wor.se I m off."
" But how came you there? " demanded Allen.
" None of your business, you inquisitive Yankee," was the
reply. "Help me, or I ll leave you to do your own fighting
another time." ,
With some trouble and danger to ourselves, we succeeded in
extricating Benventuro from his uncomfortable position ; but
when the priest was fairly released from the embrace .of the
thorn bush, he abused us in the most hearty manner for leading
him from the pleasures of the table to an encounter so much to
his disadvantage. In fact, he offered to show us certain portions
of his body, to prove that he was a martyr ; but we declined the
exhibition with much firmnness, and laughed at his scars so sin
cerely that he was compelled to join us, and acknowledge that he
might have been -injured much worse.
" The way of it was," the padre said, in explanation, " I started
for the incendiary, who lighted the fire, and overtook him after a
short run. We grappled, and a terrible struggle ensued. He
attempted to use his knife on me, but I avoided the blade, and
wrenched it from his hand. I was just conquering him, when,
two of the scamp s friends attacked me, and I was compelled to
devote my attention to them ; but while I was striking to thfe right
and left, I slipped and fell upon those bushes, which the saints
may curse if they please, or they may let it alone."
We had no desire to refute the story which the priest had con
jured up ; so we let him continue to magnify until I think he really
attributed the success of the sortie to his own efforts. When" he
had concluded, we paid a visit to the two ladrones whom we had
seen fall, and found that they were both seriously wounded, and
needed immediate attention. The priest conversed with the men
for a short time in a low tone, while we stood at a distance wait
ing for him.
" These men must fre cared for," he said at length, calling us
to him. " They are hurt probably fatally ; and although they
are bad men, and would have killed you if possible, still you are
well avenged, and must feel satisfied. As a priest, it is my duty
17
258 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v
to see that their injuries are attended to. You can have no ob
jections to that, I trust."
Of course we had no objections. Our enmity terminated when
the men fell, and we felt thankful to think they were not killed
outright.
" If we can be of any assistance, command us," Allen said.
" No, no ; go home and go to bed," and leave me to take charge
of the wounded," replied the priest, somewhat eagerly. ** You
can be of no use here, and might do much harm. Leave all
to me."
" But the ladrones may make another attempt to fire the fac
tory," Allen said.
" I pledge you my priestly word that your building shall not be
molested by these men," the padre cried. " I have some control
over them, and they will obey me quicker than a file of soldiers.
Now go and leave me alone with them, and be sure that you don t
return or send any one to disturb us."
" What do you propose to do?" Allen asked. "You will need
help to remove these men, for they are incapable of motion."
" I will find help as soon as you leave the grounch Now go,
like good boys that you are, and don t let me have .to beg of you
to do so again. Moments are precious, for life is ebbing away
rapidly."
He spoke so earnestly that we no longer . hesitated to leave the
spot arfd retrace our steps towards the factory. When we were
about forty yards from the priest, I heard a peculiar cry that
sounded like the wail of a wounded monkey. The cry was so
singular that we stopped and looked back. Amid the trees we
could see the figures of many men moving as though bearing bur
dens towards the river.
" The priest has called the gang together, and they are remov
ing the wounded to boats," Allen said ; and then we turned
our backs upon them, and let them work without molestation, con
fident that the priest was a safeguard against any further attack,
for that night at least.
" One would hardly have expected such "a display of sympathy
on the part of Benventuro," my friend remarked ; " yet I, who
know the man well, was not unprepared for it. He likes fun as
well as any person outside of the clergy, yet when the rites of the
church are required, no man can perform them with more dignity.
THE NEXT MORNING. 259
He is a strange mixture of sinner and saint man of the world
and minister of the church always ready for a drinking bout or
a feast, a funeral or a marriage. Take him in every respect,
I had much rather have his friendship than his -enmity."
It was past eleven" o clock when we reached the house, tired
and anxious for that rest which we so much needed. We drank
a few sups of cool claret, and then separated, Tom and myself to
swing our hammocks in one room, while Allen did the same in
his apartment.
I do not know whether the scenes through which I had passed
were conducive to sleep, or whether the long race which I had
run had so entirely fatigued my system that all dreams and spells
had to give way to slumber ; but certain it is that I did not awaken
until I heard Tom roar out an inquiry as to my intentions of re
maining in bed all day.
The table was already spread when we reached the dining-room,
and down we sat without formality.
" By the way, how are your patients, whose carcasses were rid
dled last night? " Allen asked.
The jolly manner of the priest changed at once. His face looked
serious, and his eyes thoughtful.
" My dear young friends," he said, " there are some things
which even you must not discuss. Speak no more about the men,
and try to forget them. They will never trouble you again ; that
I can assure you." .
" But why this air of mystery? " I asked.
" Your tea is excellent this morning. Was it brought from
China by private hands, or did it pay the queen s dues at the
custom-house ? "
Allen winked, and I knew by the signal and the priest s eva
sion that it was useless to question further. He had his secrets,
and no human being could obtain them ; so, whether the men were
dead and had made a confession, or whether they were likely to
get well, was known only to Benventuro and the other parties
interested.
" At what hour shall we leave- here for the cock-pit? " Allen
asked, after a few seconds silence.
" About twelve, I think, would be a good hour," the padre re
plied. " We can then witness the sport and be back by dinner
time, if nothing happens to disarrange our plans. I have ordered
200 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v
tlie convent banco to be in readiness to take us to San Pedro
Macati, or if you like we can dine and sleep at the convent."
There was not that willingness to consent to the latter arrange
ment which one would have expected. Allen and myself re
membered the night we had passed there too vividly to desire to
visit the place a second time, even knowing* as we did, that the
priest was friendly to us. The sudden death of Don Arturo had
never been satisfactorily explained to my mind, although I was
married to his widow.
Our silence was growing embarrassing, when Tom suddenly
relieved us.
" Don t go off there," he said,* " cos the basket of wine that I
have sent for will arrive this afternoon in time for dinner."
" If ever there was a sensible man, you are one," cried the
padre, in a burst of enthusiasm. " We will return to the factory.
I feel my throat parched at the very idea of commencing a con
test with twelve gentlemen in black, with silver heads and effer
vescent stomachs. We will make them yield, or fall in the at
tempt."
" Where ? under the table ? " asked Allen. .
The priest looked fixedly at the interrogator for a second with
out speaking. Then he winked one eye rapidly, and smiled as he
lighted a cigar, and drew away from the table.
" There is a man in the court-yard who wishes to see the holy
father Benventuro," said the servant, entering 4o clear the table.
"Well, what does he want? To confess his sins, or to be
wedded ? " demanded the priest.
" He does not look as though he was a candidate for matri
mony, senor, for a more villanous face I never saw on man."
" Santa Marie I he must mean my steward, the amiable Antonio.
J know of HO other man whose face is frightful enough to scare
women. He has returned from his expedition in season. Show
him in. If he brings not good news, I ll have his head shaved as
a punishment."
The servant left the room to obey the orders of the priest, and
in a few seconds we heard the cat-like tread of his man-of-all-
work.
The fellow entered the apartment, and threw a rapid glance
around the room ; and this time his eye rested upon the servant, as
though wondering why he was permitted to be present.
A FEW INQUfRIES. 261
The priest seemed to comprehend the fellow s thoughts, for ha
ordered the servant to give his steward a glass of gin, and then
to leave the room.
" And hark you," the padre said ; " if I catch you or your com
panions listening at the doors, I ll make you do penance that will
reduce you to skin and bones in a week s time. Recollect, I shall
be as good as my word."
I was dying with anxiety to hear some intelligence respecting
my wife ; yet I was*forced to appear composed, and sat there in
solemn silence, while the steward poiyed down his gin with a gusto
that showed he had sent many drinks of the strong liquor on the
same journey.
The fellow smacked his lips, and then looked into the bottom
of his glass, as though sorry that it had not contained a larger
quantity. He deposited the tumbler upon a table, and then stood
before the priest to await his interrogations.
" Have you found any trace of the one I sent yoirin pursuit?"
the priest impatiently demanded.
The steward glanced at us and then at the padre in a meaning
manner. ,
" You need not fear to speak before these gentlemen as freely
as though I was alone. They know the object o your going to
Manila," the padre said.
" I have made a few inquiries, * the steward remarked, * and
find that the Seuora Donna Teresa is in the power of Father.Juan,
and that he is likely to keep her a prisoner for some montlis, un
less he changes his mind."
" Tell us all that you have learned," the priesfcsaid.
" I like to act, not talk," the fellow cried, somewhat sulkily.
" And when I command, you must do both," Benventuro re
plied, haughtily ; and as he spoke he held up one of his fingers,
and made a significant motion, which must have meant something,
for the man s manners underwent a most miraculous change, and
instead of the bold bravo, we saw before us the cringing ruffian,
trembling at the frown of his master. " Now that we understand
each other, go on with your story, and mind and speak the whole
truth," the priest continued.
" I always speak the truth to you, senor," the steward said,
hardly daring to lift his humble eyes to those of the holy father.
262 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
The priest made a motion of impatience, and the steward c nn
menced an account of his discoveries in Manila.
" As soon as I reached Manila, senor, I visited the Convent of
St. Sebastian, where I have a friend, and pretended that I thought
some of leaving your service, and that I should like to get an en
gagement where there was some life and fun going on. I knew
the man I was talking with, for we have done some odd jobs to
gether in other days, and I always found him as true as steel. I
had to represent that I was disgusted with the peaceful, quiet life
which I led at the convent of San Pedro before I could gain my
friend s confidence ; and even then a bottle of wine was required
to open his heart and make him confide in me. But after his
head was affected, his feelings underwent a change. He told me
that I could engage with Father Juan in a few weeks, if every
thing worked well, but that I could not make a definite arrange
ment at present, because the convent was poor."
" May the blessed saints always keep it in that condition/ * was
the fervent prayer of Father Benventuro.
" I asked for an explanation," Antonio continued, " but my
friend only laughed and shook his head. At length he did tell mb
that the convent would become one of the richest in the island, if
Father Juan s.plans were not interrupted by a number of cursed
heretics, who were prowling around the city for the purpose of
making their fortunes at the expense of good Catholics. I joined
my (jurses to his, and said that a sharp knife would soon rid the
holy father of their presence, and that I should have no objections
to perform a certain part, if good inducements were held out to
me. This answer had some effect, for my friend then told me
that a lady, whose name he did not wish to mention, but she
was independently rich, had taken an amorous fancy to an Amer
ican who was residing in the, city, and who was doing a large
business, exporting rice to China ; that Father Juan had made
desperate attempts to break up the connection, but had failed,
just as he supposed he was about to be successful, through the
wilftilness of the lady ; that he was determined to get posses
sion of her person, and hold her a prisoner until she was willing
to enter the convent and give all her property to Father Juan.
For that purpose the father had lingered around a house which
she was visiting, intending to seize her as soon as she attempted
to return home."
ANTONIO S MISSION. 263
" The cursed scoundrel ! " I cried, no longer able to suppress
my rage.
" Peace, my son," the priest said, as gentle a rebuke as he
could utter ; " let not your passions overpower you. What has
been done was the will of "
" The devil," interrupted Allen, who saw that the priest hesi
tated for a proper word.
Benventuro made no reply. He waved his hand, and his satellite
continued :
" After my friend spoke thus freely, he no longer sought to
conceal anything from me. Perhaps ii^was because I carried a
couple of flasks of wine with me, or because he thought that I was
speaking the truth, .when I said that I desired to change my
masters. If he supposed that I was sincere, I am fearful he has
altered for the worse during the past few years, for my friend was
seldom guilty of uttering more than one truth for ten lies, and I
was always considered much like him. At any rate the wine
opened his mouth, and his tongue told me that, on the night of
the earthquake, Donna Teresa* was brought to the river door of
the convent in a banco, and even entered the building, but that
Father Juan feared the archbishop would be bribed by you to
interfere, senor ; so the same bancarios who took her to the con
vent were further employed to carry her up the river to a house
which the priest has full control of ; but where that house is, my
friend did not know, or refused to divulge. I tried every offer
that I could think of, without letting my mission be discovered, to
get the desired information, but I failed."
" Tell me," I cried, " did your friend see the lady when she
was brought to the convent? "
" He did, senor," answered the steward.
" Did he tell you that she was much affected by her imprison
ment?" I demanded.
" She wept sometimes, senor, but oftener uttered threats like
a high-born Spanish lady who felt that she was ill treated. She
did not supplicate, but many times, in her anguish, she called upon
her husband to save and protect her."
% " This is monstrous ! " I exclaimed ; " a lady is suddenly seized
and imprisoned, andI must content myself by waiting patiently
for her deliverance. If I could but lay one hand upon the neck
264 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
(,
of that rascally priest, he would never commit another outrage,
or cause a tear in Teresa s eyes."
" But as you can t do as you wish, you must be governed by
our advice ; and that you will find judicious in the end. The
search is not yet ended, nor the danger that you are liable to
meet at the hands of Father Juan. We have succeeded wonder
fully so far ; so don t defeat the object of our enterprise by any
rash action. Be calm and patient, and your wife will yet repose
in your arms, all the happier for her trials."
What argument could I employ against the advice of the priest?
I was a stranger in the land, and unaccustomed to the tricks of
the Jesuits and Mestizos ; and much as I loved my wife, I was
compelled to let others work in my behalf, and do that which I
would have given all my wealth to have done.
" You have not disappointed me," the priest said, addressing
his steward ; " the information which you have imparted is im
portant, and is appreciated by us all. But you must do better,
even if you go without sleeping or eating for a week. You must
discover the house where the lady is imprisoned,- and when you
have done so, we will take steps to free her. Go back to Manila,
and like a shadow track Father Juan s steps ; let him not move
a dozen yards without your knowledge ; night and day keep him
in sight, and yet let him, not even suspect that he is watched. Now
return to Manila, and give us early information."
The fellow bowed as though the priest s word was law, and
was about to leave the room, when I stopped him.
" Remember that you are not working for an ungrateful man,"
I said. u If you discover the ludy, a heavy reward will be your
portion. , What you have done already shall be paid for ; but be
careful and not purchase too much wine."
I slipped two doubloons into his hand, and the dark face of th^
man lighted up with such a satisfied look that I did not regret
the gold.
" Senor," he said, with more courtesy than I ever saw him ex
hibit before, " if your wife is in Manila I ll find her."
He turned and left the room suddenly, as though he had some
fear that Father Benventuro might request a dividend of whatjie
had received. I watched him until he reached the river, where
he had a banco, and had the satisfaction of seeing him paddlo
towards the city with lusty strokes.
THE COCK-PIT. 265
" A trusty fellow," exclaimed Benventtro ; " but he requires a
steady baud to manage him. He is wilful at times, but I think
he means well. He is useful, very useful, on occasions. "
" I will lay a wager that he has committed some crime in the
course of his lifetime, and that you keep him in subjection by
having a knowledge of it," Allen said.
" Fie, for shame ! to suspect so good a fellow," the priest said,
Bmiliug ; but he did not deny the charge, or make further allusion
to it ; and as we knew the priest confided to us what he pleased,
and no more, we did not press him for an exposure.
The time lagged until the hour for dinner, which was served
at twelve o clock, thus conforming to the usage of sea-life. As
soon as the meal was concluded, we left the table, and embarked
on board of the convent banco, and were slowly paddled up the
river towards San Pedro Macati, where the cock-fighting was an
nounced to take place, and where the priest hoped to make a few
ounces, on a favorite bird which he had been training for some
time past ; but his passion for gambling was too deep rooted to
care for reverses, and I had no doubt that, if occasion required,
he would stake even his black robe for the sake of a little excite
ment. The fact of a priest being partial to cock-fighting was too
universal in Manila to provoke comment. Some would frequently
leave the church for the cock-pit, and yet lose none of the odor of
Christianity in the estimation of their followers. They staked
heavily on the result of a fight, and, if they lost, paid with as in
different an air as possible. If they won they were glad, but that
was the only emotion observable upon their smooth faces. It was
only during the excitement of a battle that they lost all control
over their passions, and made wagers, which, in their calmer
hours, they would have hesitated to take.
By one o clock we were at San Pedro Macati. Already was
the village alive with people, who had flocked to the place from
all quarters, with their favorite birds in their hands, and a small
stock of money in their pockets, for the purpose of betting. The
air was vocal with crowing, each chanticleer endeavoring to drown
the noise of his neighbor, but not being successful, grew frantic
with rage, and made demonstrations of hostility towards all who
approached. These bursts of passion were looked upon with great
interest by the natives, as they exhibited the true breed for fight
ing purposes, and many small bets were made before the cocks
266 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
were exhibited in the arena, where they were to contend for the
supremacy, and kill their antagonist, or suffer themselves to be
killed.
Before we had reached the central portion of the village, the
individual who exercised the same functions as a mayor, being
responsible to the government at Manila for riots, murders, or
plottings, and authorized to arrest the actors in such dramas, made
his appearance, and greeted the padre with every demonstration
of respect. He was an old man, with a grave face, as became his
station, and a severe eye, which told how little he would hesitate
at ordering a hundred blows with a stick, or make the victim
come down handsomely with gold for pardon and escape of
punishment. And the Mestizos seemed to stand in awe of his
authority, for they did not press around us when they found that
he was to take us in charge, and that we were vouched for by
such a respectable man.
One of the peculiar laws of the island is that which prevents
foreigners from visiting the several villages on the river, unless
a passport is obtained. This is for the security of the Spanish
authority, which brooks no interference, and is continually haunted
by thoughts of revolution, and a general massacre of the soldiers
and citizens of Spain. The government is well aware that the
country offers great inducements for intrigues ; hence in each town
is an individual who is called the mayor, whose duties I have
defined. In addition to this official are several spies, whose
occupation is to watch the mayor, and see that he is faithful to
his trust.
If a foreigner, therefore, wishes to land at a village for even a
few common necessaries, his arrival io quickly communicated to
the mayor, and that worthy pays him r; visit, perhaps with his
pants under his arm, or minus a shirt. The arrival is questioned.
He merely landed for the purpose of buying some milk. Has he
a passport? No. Then he will be kind enough to occupy a room
under a guard of natives, until the will of the authorities at Manila
is known ; and as the latter are slow at moving, a week or more
elapses before a release is ordered, or a command to br ng the
prisoner to the city for examination.
It was quite fortunate for us that the mayor was not only ac
quainted with the padre, but was on terms of intimacy with Allen,
Santa Mesa and San Pedro Macati being but a few miles apart.
MADE PRISONERS. 267
Under these circumstances, of course, no inquiries were made
regarding our visit, although candor compels me to state that
we were immediately made captives by the mayor, and marched
to his residence, surrounded by a whole body of inquisitive
Mestizos.
Our imprisonment was not of the rigorous kind, by any means,
for the mayor with great pomp conducted us to the best house in
town, and showed us to a room where we could make ourselves
comfortable, in huge bamboo chairs, with rests for the feet and
pillows for the head ; and while we were trying the softness of
bamboo, a naked little boy brought us cigars and fire, and when
we were in a cloud of smoke our host ushered in a young girl,
evidently a daughter, but she bore a huge jar of liquid, the per
fume of which seemed very grateful on a warm day. The vessel
was deposited on the earthen floor, and then two more girls made
their appearance, in costumes which would hardly be considered
as appropriate for females in this country, excepting in a ballet or
circus.
" O Lord ! " muttered Tom, whose susceptible heart began to
blaze at the sight of so many charms ; " I can t stand this long.
If those girls don t cover up their necks, I shall certainly have
a fit."
The girls filled pint cups of stone ware from the jar, and then
advanced and offered them to us with considerable grace. We
were at a loss to understand what the beverage was made of, but
a slight sip soon set our minds at rest. It was lemonade of tno
most delicious quality. Cool and crispy as ice water. Such as I
had never drank before, but often drank afterwards, when I could
get a native who understood the art to prepare some.
For a few seconds four heads might have been seen thrown
back, and then four long sighs, as the cups were emptied, heard,
and four voices proclaimed the rapture which was felt as tho
soothing beverage tickled their palates.
And the, mayor stood by, and saw our delight with ar expres
sion of intense satisfaction upon his dark face at the admiration
with which we hailed his skill.
" Holy father," cried the mayor, " let the girls assist you and
your friends to another drink. *
" My son," replied the padre, " my senses are in such a whirl
268 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
of delight at tasting your cool lemonade, that you shall have my
blessing. Kneel, my son, and receive it."
And the mayor did as directed. He dropped upon his knees,
and the sign of the cross was made over his head. The man
arose, seemed very grateful, while the father looked very com
manding and very thirsty.
" Now, my daughters," the kind-hearted padre said, holding
out his mug, " fill this, and see that it don t remain empty while
I am in the house. If you are attentive, my children, I shall
bless you before I go."
The mayor was so pleased at our praise that he sent one of his
daughters for fruit, and she returned with a variety ; and for an
hour we sat in the cool room of the house smoking and quenching
our thirst, and occasionally complimenting the ladies, while the
longer we staid the better terms we were with them. But a
rude native, who considered cock-fighting superior to love-making,
entered, and in humble tones announced to Father Benventuro
that the battles were about to begin, and that only the presence
of the mayor and himself were wanted.
Of course we all arose at this announcement, and began to
make preparations to start ; but I noticed that Tom seemed in
different, and was not inclined to move, and I instantly guessed
the reason. He preferred the society of girls to cock-fighters,
and if I had not been a married man, and a faithful one at that,
I should not have blamed him greatly, for the girls were quite
fresh-looking, and had very plump, enticing forms.
" Come, Tom, we are about to start," I said. " If you are
going with us, you had better put your coat on, and get ready."
" O, I don t care for cock-fighting," he replied. " There ll be
a crowd, and I don t like crowds. Better go without me, and
call when you return this way."
" Confound him," whispered Allen, " he wants to make love
to these girls during our absence. I don t blame him much for
it ; but, as we shan t stand a fair chance, I ll cheat him of
his fun."
He spoke a few words to the mayor in the Mestizo tongue, and
that functionary appeared extremely gratified. He gave his
daughters an order, and expressions of the most profound delight
were instantly observed upon their faces.
" Well, if you will remain here," Allen said, speaking to Tom,
THE BATTLES. 269
" make yourself as contented as possible. You will have the house
all to yourself."
But the girls intend to remain don t they ? " demanded
Tom, with some eagerness.
" O, no ; they are going with us. Women are too ibnd of
crowds and battles to stay away from them."
" Hang the luck ! " muttered the disappointed man, ; " I won t
stay here all alone. I think I ll also go."
We started from the house, sheltering our heads from the sun
by mea^s of Chinese umbrellas, which the mayor loaned us, while
to Tom s extreme gratification one of the young girls suffered him
to hold the screen over her head while on the way to the build
ing where the cocks were to fight.
Our arrival seemed to be the signal for the fights to commence,
for two natives brought in two cocks, one white and the other
red. After showing the birds to the audience, and proclaiming
their owners names, the cocks were allowed to peck away at each
other, while the natives held them in their arms. After their
passions were excited to the highest degree, the animals were
dropped to the ground, and joined in combat.
Then the betting began with enthusiasm, the priest leading off
by shouting, " Two dollars on the red ! " Hardly were the words
out of his mouth, before his bet was accepted by a native who
carried a bag full of dollars in his hand, and shook them to at
tract attention, and give evidence that he was capable of paying
his losses.
From all parts of the building were heard bets, from five dollars
down as low as six cents. The audience was not kept long in
suspense regarding the battle, however, and it seemed to me that
before the bets were all made and accepted the fight was finished,
the white cock having received his quietus from a long spur, made
of steel, and fastened to the red cock s legs.
" Thank the saints, I have started well," muttered the priest, aa
he pocketed the native s two silver dollars, and lighted a cigar.
" It s devilish exciting ain t it?" asked Tom, who was seated
by the side of the girls, making desperate work speaking intel
ligible Spanish.
" The cock-fighting, or love-making? " I asked.
" Why, the fighting, to be sure. I m too much accustomed to tho
270 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
<,
other sort of thing to mind it much," was Tom s cool reply, but
I knew that he was in a flutter of agitation all the time.
The dead and live cocks were carried off, and a black and gray
were brought in of more pretensions than the previous ones.
" Bet your money on the black cock," whispered the priest to
Allen and myself. " I own the bird, and know his metal. He
will whip the gray to a certainty."
" An ounce on the black ! " shouted Benventuro.
I supposed that not a man in the whole crowd possessed the
Bum, but I was mistaken. The fellow with the bag of dollars
took the wager up in a second, and several others manifested a
strong desire to win the padre s money. For a few minutes the
confusion was intense, as all were shouting their bets and their
favorite birds.
But after the wagers were all made, silence was instantly re
stored. The birds were dropped to the ground, and went at each
other like human brutes engaged in a prize fight. At every blow
exchanged the crowd applauded. The battle was a very good one,
for both of the cocks were of the real sporting breed, and were
well trained before the steel spurs were buckled on their legs.
The blows were fiercely given, but no particular damage was done
for the first five minutes.
I saw that the priest was uneasy for the safety of his invest
ments, and I almost hoped that he would lose ; but the devil stood
his friend that time, at any rate, for the black cock made a
sudden movement that the gray one was not prepared for, and
through his brain was driven the long steel spur ; and so strong
was the blow that the victorious cock could not extricate the
weapon without assistance.
" The saints be praised for my luck," piously ejaculated the
priest. " If I can only keep on as I have begun, I shall make up
gome of my heavy losses."
In the mean time my attention was attracted towards the
girls, who were laughing, and apparently in a great state of ex
citement.
" Only think ! " shouted Tom ; " the girls are betting dollars on
the fights, and seem anxious to win. It s great fun isn t it?"
" It s fun for them, but your purse has to suffer," replied
Allen ; and sure enough, I saw that the foolish fellow was supply
ing them coin to bet, and that it disappeared into their pockets
TOM S BETS. 271
as soon as a battle was decided. The mayor smiled approv
ingly upon the sport, and seemed to envy the shrewdness of his
daughters. Tom also seemed delighted, and as he was his own
master, his proceedings were none of our business."
" How much did you win that time? " I asked of Benventuro.
" Three ounces, and all paid up. I ve got one more bird here
from the convent, and I shall stake all on him. Here he comes.
The red one, with eyes like balls of fire. He ll fight like the
dev;".l, and lick anything in the shape of a cock that lives. See
him strive to get away. Bet all your money on him, and you
will be sure to win."
The convent bird was a magnificent specimen of game cock,
being unusually large, and full of fight. His opponent was much
smaller, and was nearly black ; but he had a wicked look, which
induced me to think that he was full as plucky and smart as the
priest s pet. For five minutes the betting went on very briskly, and
hundreds of dollars were staked on the birds. The holy father bet
all of his winnings, and was confident of the result, and the ex
citement raged so that I forgot my unhappiness, and found my
self staking two ounces on the black bird, much to the priest s
disgust, for he whispered to me that I should certainly lose my
money ; but I was not so sure of it, and preferred my judgment
to his.
The result was fully equal to my expectations. The convent
cock made a rush for his opponent as though he intended to an
nihilate him, but the black cock was wide awake, and dodged
very handsomely. The ruse produced a round of applause, the
ladies adding their sweet voices to the general uproar. The
priest grew anxious, and pronounced a curse upon cock-fighting
generally.
Once more the birds stood face to face, their feathers curling
with rage, and their eyes glowing with fire. They made a few
feints like prize fighters, but the black cock was evidently wait
ing 1 for the attack, and rather stood on the defensive. Suddenly
the red bird made a rush, and struck like lightning ; but the black
cock s head was close to the ground, and the blows missed. The
priest groaned, and calculated the amount of money which he had
staked. The ladies laughed, and doubled their bets, Tom finding
the mo:iey, of course.
The red cock strutted around the arena like a dandy, and
272 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
<
even attempted to crow ; but before the defiance had quitted his
throat, the cunning little black fellow dashed towards him, and,
with a spiteful blow, drove one of his steel spurs into his oppo
nent s neck. The blood spurted, and the red cock endeavored to
keep his feet, and fight the battle to the death. But his strength
was not equal to the courage. He staggered first one side and
then the other, and at length fell upon his side and died ; but
even then the black cock was not disposed to let him alone, and
had to be plucked from the body and carried away struggling.
" What do you think of the convent cock now?" I asked of
the priest.
" Blast the cock, and curse cock-fighting ! " he cried. " I have
lost the last dollar that I have about me, and if I remain here a
second longer, may the saints curse me."
" For shame ! " I said ; " a priest, and to display so much pas
sion for the loss of a few dollars ! "
" O, it s all very well for you, who have won three or four
ounces, to cry shame ; but how would you feel to have your
favorite bird killed, and win nothing on his head? It s all a
cursed trick, and I won t bet another real on a cock-fight as long
as I live."
" Wait a moment," Allen said, delighted at the opportunity to
hector the holy father. u Make another bet, and perhaps you
will win. Here come two noble cocks for a fight, and the
Mestizos are more anxious than ever for wagers. Take some of
them up."
The priest hesitated for a moment, then felt of his pockets ;
but not finding a dollar there, muttered a curse, and struggled
to escape from the building an example I was only too glad
to follow, for I had seen as much as I desired of cock-fighting, for
one day at least.
Poor Tom, who seemed destined to be thwarted in his little
love adventures, begged of us to wait until the show was ended,
but when he found that we would not, he cursed in set terms our
obstinacy ; the fear of .being left in the village all night without
company was before his eyes, and he was compelled to tear him
self away from his inamoratas, and follow us grumbling.
" If this is not the meanest piece of business that I have ex
perienced since I left York ! " he exclaimed. " Just as I was
captivating the girls by my unbounded liberality, you must needs
TOM AND ALLEN CONFOtJNDED. 273
be starting off. It s all jealousy of the favor they were showing
me. I know it is, and you cannot deny it."
" How many dollars are you out of pocket?" Allen asked,
hardly noticing our friend s upbraidings.
* O, I don t mind the money, cos I ve got a plenty," Tom
answered. " They borrowed about ten dollars from me ; but I
am sure they are welcome to it, and I shall never expect or re
ceive payment. The only thing that I am disposed to find fault
with, is coming away and leaving those poor girls inconsolable at
my loss."
" This," said Allen, stopping suddenly, and assuming a serious
aspect, u is the gratitude we receive for saving this gentleman s
life. I saw that you were in danger of having your throat cut,
and I hastened to save you. A few minutes more and you would
have been past help."
" God bless me ! what was the matter?" asked Tom, eagerly.
" Do you mean that you did not see the lovers of the girls glar
ing at you from the opposite side of the building, and that they
worked at the handles of their knives as though desirous of termi
nating your flirtation? You must have seen them, and trif,d to
make the fellows believe you cared nothing about the matter."
" No, I pledge you my word I did not ; and if such was the
case, why, I don t blame you for wishing to get me out of the
way of danger, although you know that if I had fair play I should
care but little for them. My revolver is worth a dozen knives.
How the girls must miss me ! "
" And your dollars," I ventured to suggest ; but Tom wao con
tent to have the hint pass without notice, confident in his own
opinion that the girls cared more for his person than his money
a mistake which too many Europeans indulge in, when they
confide their affections to a Mestizo girl.
We had proceeded but a few steps on our way, when the mayor
came running after us, and in most urgent tones begged us to
again visit his house, and have some refreshments ; but the prvJre s
temper was soured by his losses, and he refused to touch aputher
drop of lemonade unless there was wine on the table to warm his
stomac]? ; and as the mayor never knew the luxury of a glass of
champagne, there was no hope of getting anything for our friend
short of the factory.
We excused ourselves, therefore, to" the mayor as well fi we
18
274 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
t,
were able, and once more embarked for home. As soon as we
were on the water the priest s spirits rose, and he no longer al
luded to his misfortunes. He hinted that the time was not far
distant when he should have funds enough to enable him to buy
all the game cocks in Manila, and get up fights for his own amuse
ment ; and while he was thus congratulating himself, the banco
reached the factory.
I was too anxious to obtain information of my wife to care to
remain at Santa Mesa for supper, which generally was served at
seven o clock ; but all my arguments were overthrown, and I was
compelled to wait until Allen could leave his business and ac
company me.
Absence from my wife had but increased my love for her ; and
as I sat by the window which overlooked the Pasig, and saw ;he
sun hide its face behind the hills, I could hardly restrain the deep
emotion which I felt when I thought that perhaps Teresa was also
gazing at the scene, and wondering why I took no steps for her
recovery.
I felt more than ever determined to wage an unceasing war
against Father Juan, and in spite of his hired assassins and bravos
to gain possession of her I loved so well"; aud I thought if she was
once more clasped in my arms, that I would take care and protect
her with a strong heart aud an unfaltering hand.
While I was thus indulging in reveries, I felt a hand upon my
shoulder, and looking up, saw the holy Father Beuventuro stand
ing over me.
u Why do you look so sober, Guillermo?" he inquired. " Are
you still thinking of your wife?"
" Who else should I think of at such an hour?" I demanded.
u There are many things to attract a young man s attention,"
he replied, " and had you been married and lived with your
wife a couple of years, you would think so. But I am glad to
see that you feel miserable without her, for it will spur you on to
greater exertions for her recovery ; and when you have gained
possession of her, I shall expect to see such perfect domestic bliss
tliat all the young people in Manila will visit you, for the purpose
of learning the history of your happiness. Mourn on, Guillermo,
mourn on ; but as for me, I must live without a wife, or children
to call me father."
IN MANILA. 275
" And do you really chafe under the vows that bind you to
celibacy?" I asked, somewhat astonished.
" Well, I can t say that I do, for in fact I am not one of the
marrying kind. I had much rather unite people in wedlock than
to be united myself."
" Bat do you not like children? "
" I am passionately fond of little pets, and some day I will
show you quite a number who call me uncle. That title is a
respectable -one, and solves a good many questions from peo
ple who are fond of asking them. No, I am not a father in
the general acceptance of the term, but love my nephews and
nieces.
I let the conversation drop, and, acting on Allen s hint, got
ready to accompany him to Manila, the Mecca of my hopes and
fears.
We took the convent banco, with but two assistants, for the
purpose of not attracting attention. The men who paddled the
boat were tolerably trustworthy, and were almost strangers in
Manila ; so we knew that they would be likely to remain by the
banco until our return, even if we were gone all night, which we
did not expect.
We reached the city about eight o clock, and the first visit I
made after landing was to my wife s house, for the purpose of
consulting with Donna Raquel, Teresa s maiden aunt. I left
Allen in the street while I entered the house, for my friend stood
in wholesome fear of the old lady s tongue, and did not care to
encounter its bitterness, if he could avoid it.
The old lady received me with great cordiality, and instantly
rang the bell, and ordered me a glass of her bitters, for fear
the night air would affect my stomach and disarrange my liver ;
and after she had watched and satisfied herself that I had swal
lowed the dose, she prepared herself for a string of questions ; but
I got the best of her by first inquiring if she had seen my wile,
>r had any joyful tidings to communicate respecting her where
abouts?
u O, you poor child ! " she began, " I have not slept an hour,
thinking of you and Teresa, and wondering when we shall see
the last of these disagreeable troubles. My appetite, too, is all
goue, and were it not for the bitters I should sink into my grave ;
27G LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. v
and I don t know but that would be the best place for me, for
really there s nothing for one to live for."
I stated that I hoped the saints would spare her for many years
of happiness, and I have no doubt but that she desired the same
thing, but thought it would not look well to acknowledge it. Once
more I asked for information concerning my wife, but I rightly
judged that she had none to give me.
" I have not heard the first word respecting her, poor child,
and sometimes I think I never shall again. I wish liey had
taken me instead of my niece ; I think that I could have found
means to escape, had there been fifty men employed to watch me.
But Teresa has not got half the courage that I possess, and I am
afraid that but few women have. They are not what they used
to be ; the saints pardon me for saying so."
I had no hesitation in saying that the abductors knew better
than to attempt the capture of so spirited a lady as Donna Raquel
a remark that was considered complimentary ; and as a recom
pense I was made to drink one more glass of her famed cordial,
which she warranted would enable me to bear up under my mis
fortunes, and keep me in good condition until I was enabled to
see my wife.
" Have you seen Father Juan? " I asked, after a few moments
of silence on my part, but vigorous conversation from my maiden
friend.
" He was here this forenoon, and remained but a short time,
pleading that he had a pressing engagement. He asked for Teresa,
and I told him that she was at her country-seat, I supposed. I
manifested no anxiety in regard to her ; but watched his face
and actions closely, and I am firmly convinced that he has con
fined Teresa somewhere in the city, and that he is determined to
keep her a prisoner until she consents to his demands. I said
nothing that would lead him to think I suspected such a thing,
and the priest left me after a few hasty inquiries respecting your
self."
" And pray what did he say regarding me? " I asked.
44 Simply whether I thought Teresa would marry a heretic, re
gardless of the wishes of her best friends. That question, I told
him, I was unable to answer, for women were wilful when their
hearts were touched. He said nothing, but left the house very
thoughtful.
GRACIA. 277
I was sorry that Raquel had no better news for me ; but the
lady promised to work in my behalf, and not even to take a siesta
until I was righted, and her niece set free. I pleaded business,
and left the house, promising to call in every day and give her
the result of my doings ; and with a recommendation to the saints
to have me in their keeping, she bade me good night. Outside of
the garden walls I found Allen, smoking a cigar, and waiting with
patience my appearance.
" Well, how was Donna Raquel to-night? In a pacific mood,
or an argumentative one? " he inquired.
u She was mild and hospitable ; full of sympathy and regrets,"
I answered.
" You have, then, accomplished the greatest triumph that has
been witnessed on this island for years," Alleu answered. " Donna
liaquel I considered untamable by man or woman."
lu silence we walked on through the crowded streets, until we
reached my residence . We paused at the foot of the staircase,
for we heard a female voice singing a Mestizo song, not iu the
monotonous tones that characterize the Mestizo race, but with
much sweetness and power.
" Hallo ! " whispered Allen ; " your pet bird is pining in your
absence. Go aud greet her, and I ll return to the house in an
hour s time."
He turned to depart with a smile, but I detained him.
" I have once explained matters to you, and was in hopes that
I should not have to speak again on the same subject," I said,
with as offended an air as I could assume.
44 O, so you did. I ask your pardon. Go along, and I ll follow
you."
We passed up stairs so quietly that we did not disturb Gracia,
who was seated at a table sewing by the light of a caudle. For
a lew moments we stood looking at her, and a very pretty picture
she was to look at. Her clothes were neat and clean, but cut
too low in the neck for fashion. In her dark hair were numerous
flowers, looking as fresh as her full face, beneath the dark skin
of which could be seen the red blood dancing through her veins
in all its purity.
" Are you lonely, Gracia, that you sing such a mournful song? "
I askeu.
The girl started at the sound of my voice, and sprang to hei
278 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
t,
feet ; but the instant she saw my face, her look of terror changed
to one of joy and surprise.
" O, senor, have you returned? " she asked, as though doubt
ing the evidence of her senses ; and in the joy of the moment she
would have thrown herself into my arms, but I checked her be
fore she could commit such an impropriety. I thought of my
wife, and was safe from temptation. I wish all husbands could
truthfully say as much. The world would be better, wives
hapj,ier, and men would not be kept awake nights thinking of
th^ir sins.
" Pardon me, senor," the poor girl said ; " I forgot, in the joy
of seeing you, that I must not love you. I will try and remem
ber your commands."
" Hang me if this isn t most marvellous," muttered Allen, re-i
garding the girl and myself attentively. " If I should tell Tom
and Benvcnturo, they would swear that I had been drinking, and
was unworthy of belief. It s better than a play much better."
" I told you, Gracia," I said, addressing the girl, " that I had
a wife living, and to her I should remain faithful."
" Then bring your wife here, and I will love her and her children
as well as I now love you," she cried, earnestly.
" As soon as I have found her, Gracia, you shall see her," I
remarked, and was about to pass to my private room when she
laid her hands upon my arm and detained me.
" Senor, can I aid you in finding her? "
I hardly knew what to say. I did not like to tell the girl that
her father, the night before, had made an attack upon me, arid
nearly succeeded in his designs ; yet I thought for how little she
had to be grateful to that parent, who had left her to gain her
bread the best way she could.
u If I could see your father, Gracia, perhaps he could aid me,"
I said, at length.
" Then you shall see him," she exclaimed, promptly. " He
was here this afternoon, and promised to call this evening. It is
time that he arrived. He met with an accident, so he is incap
able of working, and that accounts for his visit to me."
I knew what the accident was, but I did not tell her what caused
it. I looked at her attentively for a few moments, and determined
to trust her.
" You say that you like me, Gracia? "
THE BEGGAR. 279
* Better than any one in the world," was her candid answer.
" And you are willing to serve me? "
" Faithfully, senor."
" Then, when your father visits you this evening, take him to
the sitting-room, and give him a glass of wine ; be cautious ;
see if he won t tell you where he carried the lady, whom he took
from this house on the night of the earthquake. He was employed
by Father Juan, and a hint to that effect may awaken his recol
lection. If you succeed, you shall be well rewarded."
" I shall be amply repaid," she said, " if I contribute to your
happiness. I will do as you direct, and I pray the saints that
I Diay succeed."
I found that the other servants had all gone to the theatre, so
there was but little danger of their interrupting our project ; and
I thought, if I could get the father of Gracia to confess to his
daughter his connection with the plot, I should have a card in my
baud that was well worth playing.
While I was giving instructions to the girl, an old man, poorly
dressed, and with a staff in his hand, entered the house, and stood
at the head of the staircase, bowing low, as though desirous of
charity. I held a few coins in my hand, for I supposed the fellow
was a beggar ; but to my surprise he did not seem anxious for
money, for he refused to advance and receive it.
" Can you give me a bed to-night, senor? " he asked, in tremu
lous tones. " I have travelled for many miles, and am weary."
u I will give you money to buy a bed and supper, but you can t
stop in the house," I replied, somewhat astonished at the novel
request j for but few Mestizos enjoy the luxury of a bed, or even
care for one.
" Well, senor, I suppose I must take the money," he said, after
a moment s pause, as though deliberating whether it was best to
accept it.
I advanced towards the man, keeping my eyes fixed upon his
inDvements, for I had a slight suspicion that he might mean
treachery ; but when I was within a step of his person, a voice
that I remembered whispered,
" Can the girl be trusted, seuor?"
The suspected beggar put his hand to his face, and lifted a
long, white beard, and then I saw the villanous features of Beu-
voiituro s steward, Antonio, the convent servant.
280 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
I was so astonished that I was about to call his name, but he
interrupted me by whining out,
" I must have something to eat, senor, or I shall never be able
to leave the city. The saints will bless you for what you do for
mo that yon may depend upon."
" You shall have something," I answered ; and then turning to
Gracia, I directed her, somewhat to her astonishment, to get a
plate of cold meat and some bread.
" Why don t you turn the old vagabond out of doors?" asked
Allen ; " he will fill your house with fleas and vermin of another
and more troublesome kind, unless you are very fortunate."
Gracia did not seem pleased with her errand, but she was too
anxious to stand well in my estimation to refuse. As soon as she
left the room, Antonio s bent form became upright, and his air of
dejection deserted him.
" Senors," he asked, " can you trust that girl? "
" I am not certain," I replied, " for I have known her but a
few days. She seems faithful."
" And I seemed an old man a few seconds since," was the
answer ; and there was scorn with the words, as though a man was
a fool for trusting any one in this world.
44 It s that scamp of Benventuro s," muttered Allen in English,
as much surprised at his disguise as I had been.
" If you are not sure of the woman, I had better pass into
another room, where we can converse privately," Antonio said.
I pointed to the door of my chamber, and he dodged in just a
moment before Gracia returned.
" Here are meat and bread on the table, senor," she said.
" The beggar has left the room, and perhaps the food will not
be wanted. Let it stand until after your father has gone, or give
it to him. We are now about to enter my chamber. Seat your
parent near this door, and make him speak loud, so we can over
hear all that he says. Remember, my happiness depends upon
you."
I held out my hand to her, which she kissed, and looked so kind
that I patted her head, and felt tempted to touch her lips ; but
thoughts of my wife again prevented, for which I should now feel
deeply grateful.
"Weil, Antonic., what news have you to communicate?" J
asked, as soon as we had closed the door.
OUR VISITOR. 281
" None, senor, of importance. I ve been on the track of the
holy Father Juan all the afternoon ; but he has not visited a house
where he would dare leave Donna Teresa for an hour. I just left
him at the Church of San Marco, repeating masses for the repose
of a rich merchant s soul. He will be detained there two hours,
and then I shall track him again, and perhaps he may visit the
house where your wife is a prisoner "
The spy stopped while speaking, and listened attentively.
" Some one is coining up the stairs," he said ; u and I hear
ihe young girl speak to him."
How he could have heard as much was a mystery, for although
Allen and myself listened attentively, we could not distinguish a
sound or footstep.
CHAPTER XL
GRACIA S FATHER. A CONFESSION. ON THE TRAIL, &c., &c.
" YOUR girl has a visitor, and she is urging him to take a seat
in the front room," Antonio said, with a keen glance at my face,
as though he was desirous of satisfying himself that I was not
engaged in a plot against his welfare.
" I expected him," I replied, with a gesture to keep silent, and
the fellow obeyed ; but I could see that his ears were open, and
that his snake eyes glistened in anticipation of overhearing private
conversation.
Gracia and her father entered the sitting-room, and I could hear
her say that she was alone, and expected no one until eleven
o clock. I pardoned the deception that she was practising, be
cause it was for my sake, and men will overlook much on that
ecore.
" You have a good house here, child," the father said. " I
hope that the master gives you plenty of money and dresses.
Take all that he offers, and if you have no use for money I can
relieve you of it. Foreigners make gold fast, and don t value
it where a woman is concerned. You are young and handsome,
and should command a good prize, although I am sorry that I
282 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
was not consulted in the matter. "Women have got too much
heart to make a trade."
" But I am not engaged as a mistress," Gracia said. " I am
employed to sew and do a little washing."
* Then I am not too late. I ll see the senor to-morrow, and talk
with him about your price. He shall pay well, Gracia, for I know
how to manage foreigners. And then, if you but do your duty,
a pension will be secured to you for life. He has money, and
shall pay, or I ll set Father Juan on to him."
At the mention of this name, Antonio redoubled his attention.
He seemed to comprehend by instinct that important disclosures
were to be made. His eyes grew brighter, if possible, than
ever.
" Do not speak to the senor," Gracia said, in a tone of voice
that showed how much she disliked the subject of conversation.
" The senor is a married man, and virtuous ; I have known him
but for a few days. He has been kind to me, and I love him as a
brother."
" Love him as much as you please, but still make money out
of him to help your poor old father in his misfortunes. See, I
have lost the use of one hand by an accident ; may the saints con
found the luck, and only think how pleasant it would be if I could
come here and get what I want to eat and drink. Your sister
Sara was always thinking of me, and many a glass of wine has
she given me."
" And I will do the same," Gracia replied. " Sit where you
are, and I will bring you wine and food."
The father grumbled out a few thanks, and signified that what
ever she brought would be acceptable.
No sooner had she left the apartment, than Antonio quietly
arose and noiselessly bolted the door of the room in which we were
sitting.
l - What is *hat for? " I asked.
" It s quite probable that the fellow will desire to see what
there is worth stealing in the house, so I have taken the precaution
to prevent his getting in here and making a discovery. I may
be wrong in suspecting him of stealing, but it is always best to be
on the safe side."
Hardly had Antonio concluded, before a hand was laid upon
the latch of the door, so softly that had I been alone and reading,
LISTENING.
283
I should not have noticed the incident. There was a slight push
to force the door open, but not succeeding, all was quiet again.
Antonio gave us a look which expressed his satisfaction at the re
sult, and then recommenced listening with renewed ardor.
I heard the fellow creep back to his chair after his attempt to
explore the recesses of my chamber, and from that time until
Gracia s return he sat still, as though conjuring up in his brain
some scheme by which he could live without work. His cogita
tions wsre not of long duration, for his daughter, perhaps, sus
pected that he might be restive during her absence, and put some
thing in his pockets that she would prefer I should not lose.
" Here, father," she said, " is wine and bread, and meat."
" Give me the wine first, child," he replied ; " because, with a
bottle of wine a man can be independent of hunger, and hap
pier than if he ate hearty and drank nothing but water. As a
general thing I prefer wine to bread."
" I should think that wine would be bad for your wounded
hand, father," Gracia said.
" There is where you are wrong again, child. Wine enables
me to endure the pain, and think how I can revenge myself for
the injury. After all, the thought of revenge is nearly equal to
the reality."
" I think that you told me that your hand was injured by an
accident," Gracia observed.
" Then I told a lie, for it was smashed by a heretic, whom I
shall make pay for it some day with his blood."
" Can I help you, father?" the girl asked, not suspecting that I
was the o^e who committed the act.
" 1 am not so certain but you can, girl, if you are shrewd
enough to get the fello\v in your toils, and keep from loving him.
He is detested by the church, for he is a heretic, and Father Juau
has no cause to love him."
" Why should Father Juan dislike him?" asked Gracia, filling
her father s glass for the second time. u I am sure," she contin
ued, u that if the padre hates him, the heretic is unworthy to live
much longer."
The parent did not reply to this speech for a few seconds. He
was occupied in draining his glass, and thinking how far he should
trust the girl.
" He is unworthy to live, girl ; but what makes him unworthy
284 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
in my estimation? Because I can make money by his death, and
enough of it to give you plenty of dresses, and a ride once in a
while on the Calsarda."
The girl filled his glass a third time, and I knew that she was
waiting impatiently for a full confession. There were three oth
ers equally as curious, and if possible more eager, to hear how the
money was to be made.
" A few nights since I made an ounce in an hour s time," the
Mestizo said, removing his tumbler to take breath.
" That is a large sum of money, father. Let me see tho
gold."
" O, it is all gone, child ; I had to pay off some old scores with
it. But more will come from the priest, or I ll tell my secret to
one who can afford to pay well for it."
There was a pause of many minutes duration. I could hear
the fellow s teeth at work as they crunched the food which his
daughter had offered him ; and while eating he seemed to have
no disposition to talk. I wanted to rush out and take him by the
throat, and make him tell me all that he knew regarding the ab
duction of my wife ; but I feared that he would prove obstinate,
and maintain a stern silence.
" Father Juan is a good man is he not?" Gracia asked, at
length.
" He pays well," was the response ; as though that was suffi
cient to establish his claims for goodness or rascality.
" Shall you get more money from him?" the daughter asked.
" That will depend upon his success in an enterprise he is now
engaged in," was the answer ; and I fancied that 1 detected a
malicious laugh while speaking.
" What is the enterprise, father? " was the next question, yet
asked in such a careless manner that the fellow did not get
alarmed and refuse to reply.
"Are you sure that no one can overhear us?" the Mestizo
asked, and I fancied that his eyes were directed towards the room
in which we were concealed.
" Quite sure," was the answer ; and I was ready to admit
that if my protegee possessed no other merit, she was something
of an adept at deception. But that I pardoned, because it is con
stitutional with the Mestizo race.
" Well, then, I don t mind telling you ; but be sure and keep it
A CONFESSION. 285
a secret, because I expect to make money out of it before I have
concluded with Father Juan. I said that a heretic stands in the
padre s way, and the reason of it is because he has married, or
was about to marry, the widow of old Don Arturo, the Spanish
merchant, who died some time since, immensely rich. The holy fa
ther wanted the lady to enter his convent, but she had no wish
for such a life, and to force her to do so he seized her on the night
of the earthquake, and hired my comrade and myself to carry
her to the convent. That was a bold trick, but it paid us well,
and may the saints send me many more just such jobs."
" And the senora is now confined there? " Gracia asked.
That was a most momentous question, and I held my breath
for fear that I should lose the answer.
" No, child, the senora is not there at present. The holy Fa
ther Juan is too cunning for that. Pie feared a search and dis
covery."
There was another long pause. I heard Gracia fill her father s
glass, and the old vagabond smacked his lips as though he rather
approved of the wine with which the house was supplied.
u Did the senora complain when she was carried off?" Gracia
asked, at length.
" Diablo! She was indignant, and abused us all like ladrones.
Then she cried, and asked for her husband, and Father Juan wanted
to know if she meant the dead one."
I made a movement, and if Allen had not restrained me, I
should have gone out and throttled the scamp.
u Poor lady," Gracia said ; "it was cruel to treat her so
harshly."
" But think of the money we made by doing as we did."
u True, I had forgotten that. Then you know where she is im
prisoned at the present time?"
u Of course I do, and that I intend to keep a secret."
" But if I am to assist you I must know all yc ur plans," the
daughter said.
" True ; and as I think that you can keep a secret, I don t mind
telling you. After Father Juan decided that it would be dangerous
to keep the lady in his convent, we again took her in our banco,
and pulled up the river until we passed the bridge, and reached
Mother Machit s house, an old building that is near the edge
of the water. No one lives there but the old woman and her
286 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
son ; but they know what the business means, for they have had
customers like the seuora before. They asked no questions when
Father Juan carried the lady to the house ; but what was said
after we were gone is more than I know. We got our money,
and left in search of more."
" And you think that the senora is there at the present time?"
Gracia asked.
" I saw the holy father leave the house this afternoon. I sup
pose from that he had been to pay her a visit."
After this information it was with difficulty that I could restrain
my impatience, I was so anxious to start for the house, and com
mence my search for Teresa. It seemed to me that the ruffian
would never leave off guzzling wine, and more than once I heard
Gracia hint that periiaps the senor would soon return ; but he
was deaf to such insinuations, and was just drunk enough to be
obstinate and quarrelsome, for every few minutes I heard him
mutter that his children cared but little for him, and never divided
their earnings, as dutiful and loving daughters should do.
The coolest person compelled to listen to the Mestizo s mutter-
ings was Antonio. He did not seem in the least disturbed by
being compelled to wait ; but I suppose it was a part of his edu
cation to bide IILS time.
At length all conversation and mutterings ceased, and by the
Mestizo s deep breathing I judged that he slept. Carefully An
tonio opened the door and looked out, and then he motioned Allen
to follow him. Gracia was standing at a table, her eyes red with
weeping, and in my pet arm-chair was her father reposing, his
dirty legs resting upon the bamboo frame, with as much indepen
dence and sang froid as if he was the owner of the house and
contents. The villain was snoring most unmusically, and we
were not disposed to disturb his rest just at that time, for we
feared that he might interfere with our designs.
" Gracia," I said, holding out both hands, " I shall never
forget the service that you have done me."
" Did you hear all?" she asked.
" Every word that was spoken."
" And you think that you can find your wife from the confes
sion which he made ? "
" I hope so ; we are about to start for the house."
ON THE TRAIL AGAIN. 287
The poor girl wished to say something, yet feared to give utter
ance to her thoughts.
" Speak, Gracia," I said, in a kind tone.
"If you should find the senora, you would bring her here ?"
she asked.
" Perhaps I should. Why ? "
" Because I think she might feel a little jealous seeing me here
without knowing my position. Perhaps it would be well for me
to leave."
I could hardly believe that there was so much consideration for
the feelings of others in the heart of a Mestiza girl, and even Al
len shook his head as though he did not exactly know what to
make of it.
" Stay here, Gracia, until I tell you to go. I hope that my
wife if I am so fortunate as to find her will put some little
confidence in my honor."
" I wouldn t if I was a woman," Allen muttered ; but as he
was always inclined to be sarcastic, I took no notice of his re
mark.
The girl withdrew to a corner of the room, apparently satisfied ;
and as we did not care about remaining in the presence of her
father, in case he should awaken, we quietly left the house, and
stopped to deliberate in the court-yard.
" Let us lose no time," Allen said, " in discussing the matter.
We must proceed at once to Mother Machit s house, and force an
entrance. If Donna Teresa is there we will find her, and if
she has been moved, we may gain some intelligence respecting
her."
Antonio said nothing. He seemed to place himself under our
command, and was ready to act as we directed. Perhaps he had
received orders from Benventuro to do our bidding, and he feared
that worthy too much to oppose us in anything.
We started towards the banco which we had left some two or
three hours before, and were glad to find that the Mestizos were
sleeping soundly upon the mats in the bottom of the boat. We
roused them up with but little trouble, and in as quiet a manner
as possible, for fear of attracting more attention than we desired
at that time of night. I was too excited to fear any danger, yet
constantly suspected some trick or treacherous movement on the
part of the priest Juan, which would deprive me of the treasure
288 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
sought for so eagerly. But I was armed, and determined that I
would fight to the last in defence of my rights.
" Do you know the house where the lady is confined?" I asked
of Antonio.
" Si, senor," I replied.
" Then steer the banco to the spot as quick as possible."
He took the paddle that guided the boat, and then we shoved
into the stream, and commenced working our way against the
strong current that flowed down the river.
There was not another banco stirring when we started, al
though there were many moored near the bridge, as though wait
ing for freights upon the closing of the theatre. The night was
uncommonly clear, and by the aid of the moon objects could be
discerned for many yards distant. Even the sentinel, who stood
upon the bridge, pacing too and fro, could be seen as he stopped
for a moment to look at our boat as though wondering if he ought
not to challenge us, and find out our business. But he altered his
mind, if he had any such intention, and resumed his round, his
steel and brass accoutrements glistening in the moonlight like
diamonds in a ball-room.
" How much farther have we to go?" I inquired of Antonio,
as we swept through one of the lofty arches of the bridge.
" Not more than half a mile, senor," was the answer.
" Then pull strong, men, and let us get home in season," Allen
said, addressing the Mestizos who were rowing.
The fellows answered with a grunt, and renewed their exer
tions, and as we hugged the edge of the river to escape the cur-
.rent we made considerable progress, and I was congratulating
myself that we should soon know the worst, when Antonio touched
my shoulder, and pointed to a banco that was coming down the
river at a rapid rate, being urged through the water by four oars
and a steersman.
" That banco belongs to a convent," Antonio said.
" How do you know ? " I asked.
" Because, instead of its being covered with a mat it is covered
with cloth of a dark-green color."
"Can you tell the name of the convent that it belongs to?" I
demanded, somewhat eagerly, for I saw white garments in the
stern of the boat, and I thought it was barely possible the priest
might be changing the prison of Teresa.
A CHASE. to*
" I ain not certain, but I think the craft belongs to the convent
of Sebastian. A lady is in the stern of the boat. Shall we give
chase and see who they have got? We can shoot across the river,
take advantage of this tide, and I think run across the banco s
bow."
The spy read consent in my eager looks, and even before he
had finished speaking altered the course of our boat, and she was
gliding along in almost parallel lines with the convent banco.
" Pull, you scamps ! " shouted Allen ; " we must reach the arch
of the bridge first, or we shall lose sight of the banco."
The men stretched to their long, clumsy oars in earnest, and for
a few seconds we actually gained on the strange boat ; a fact which
was quickly noticed ; and then we saw, by the hurried strokes
which the convent men gave, that they were determined to keep
us at a respectful distance, if hard rowing could accomplish it.
" By heavens ! there is a woman in the stern of that banco,"
Allen said suddenly, after he had watched the course of the con
vent boat for a few moments in silence. " I think that I can see
her struggle with a man who sits beside her."
This information almost drove me distracted, for I imagined
that it was Teresa who was being carried away to some place
that the priest thought more safe than Mother Machit s,
" An ounce to each man if we overtake the boat ! " I shouted.
" Pull for your lives, men, and you shall never know want here
after ! "
u Keep cool," whispered Allen, fearing I would commit some
rash act while in such an excited state ; "sit still in the boat, for
your movements make it difficult for the men to row. They can
hardly hope to escape us, unless a miracle intervenes."
I did manage to control myself sufficiently to sit down ; but I
drew my revolver, and longed for an opportunity to use it.
" Good God ! " cried Allen, seizing the weapon and wrenching
it from my hand ; " are you mad, to think of firing a shot direct
ly in front of the city, where we can be covered with a thousand
muskets in a minute s time, and riddled with balls before a single
question is asked ? This is not the time nor place for revolvers.
If we intend to capture the crew of that banco, it must be done
without noise or confusion. Even the sentinel on the bridge
must suppose that we are having a little quiet amusement by
racing."
19
290 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
The advice, I have no doubt, was good ; but it seemed hard
not to fire one shot, just to bring the fellowu to their senses, and
make them wait our coming.
" There is a lady in the banco," Antonio said, aiding the boat
through the water with his paddle and steering at the same time.
We had made the discovery some time before.
" She is struggling with a man who has his hand over her
mouth," the spy continued, as calm as though great results did
not depend upon our success.
" Guillerrao ! " was the cry T heard proceed from the other boat,
and then followed a struggle and exclamations as though a man
was endeavoring to prevent some one from speaking.
I should have known that voice from a thousand others, for I
had heard it too often ever to forget it.
" Teresa ! " I replied, struggling to my feet, and once more en
deavoring to wrench the pistol from my friend s hands. " Tere
sa," I continued, " I am near you, and will save you/*
" For Heaven s sake keep quiet," cried Allen ; " you will over
turn the banco and drown us in the river, and it is a fate I am
not prepared for."
But I was too excited to pay attention to his caution. I could
only see my wife struggling in the arms of a stranger, and calling
to me for protection ; and the thought that I was only separated
from her by a few rods, and yet unable to assist her, was mad
dening. I cursed the cowards for their treacherous conduct, and
even while I was raving, the bows of the bancos came together
with a crash that made them tremble like reeds in a gale. With
a desperate leap I attempted to reach the boat containing
my wife. My feet just touched the gunnel of the convent banco,
rested there for a second, and then I was pushed off and fell
into the river, yet before I sank I thought that I could hear a
mocking laugh, and the voice sounded much like that of Father
Juan.
I found that I had passed through one of the arches of the
bridge while I was under water, and that I was exactly opposite
the town, but travelling towards the lighthouse at the rate of about
four miles an hour, which was much faster than I desired to go.
I looked around for the bancos, but could only see those in shore,
fastened for the night. The pursuing and pursued were not in
sight. I was too good a swimmer to call for help, and have
CAPTAIN JOHN MILLER. 291
a dozen or tweaty bancos start towards me in hope of the re
wards which they would receive, and not for the purpose of sav
ing my life, so I struck for the shore, my anger somewhat cooled,
but my hatred for Father Juan as vivid as ever.
Five minutes later saw me land at the quay opposite the Eu
ropean hotel, and just as I was crawling up the stone-work, I
heard the voice of Captain John Miller, a stout, bluff old fellow,
whom I had seen frequently at the American consul s office, and
who had invited me to visit his ship, the u Darling Nancy," or
some other nautically endearing name, favorite with antique sail
ors. The captain was reported to have seen all parts of the
world ; had been upon the ocean ever since he cut his teeth ;
was reputed wealthy, and the owner of half a dozen daughters, just
ly entitled to the name of " Salem witches," at which city the
captain resided when at home, which remarkable event happened
about once in two years ; but not oftener if he could help.
The captain was fond of company, provided the company
would listen, and not interrupt him during his long yarns, which
he was fond of spinning. He liked his pipe, his grog, his daugh
ters, his ship, and his comfort, and for the purpose of enjoying the
latter, he preferred stopping on board of his vessel instead of liv
ing on shore.
u Hallo, matey ! " was his first salutation ; " what ship are you
running from? You are blowing like a humpback whale that has
been gallied in shoal water."
I made no reply, but held down my head, so that he should not
see my face, and endeavored to pass him.
44 Avast, there ! " he shouted ; " you can t run my blockade
without showing a signal, so spring your buff and round to."
He laid his hand heavily upon my shoulder, and I found that
there was no use in opposing him.
" What are you, French, Dutch, or Spanish? " he asked.
" I am neither. I m a Yankee, like yourself," I answered,
brushing the hair from my forehead, and looking him in the
face.
The captain started back in astonishment, and shaded his sharp
gray eyes with his rough hand, as though the moonbeams affected
his sight.
" Blast it, Mr. , you don t mean to tell me that this is
you? You don t mean to say that you, a man of respectability
292 LITE Df TH EAST
and wealth, are swimming round in the river at this lime of night
with your clothes on ? "
Why. you wouldn t have me swim with them off wculd
you? What would the women say if they should see me?"
Don t go through the streets at this late hour." the captain
continued ; " it s mighty unsafe, for the Mestizos are as handy
with their knives as a marine with a musket. Come, go on board
icy ship and sleep to-night."
Almost before I was aware, the captain had edged me towards
the boat, and stepped in. In another instant the Mestizo had
shoved off, and we were pulling out of the river, the captain
puffing vigorously at a cigar, and chatting confidentially.
I s pose, if the truth was known," the captain said, with Yan
kee curiosity to learn the secrets of others, " that you have had
some confounded love scrape to-night, and had to swim or be dis
covered. Was it an angry parent, or a jealous lover, or a revenge
ful brother? Don t be afeard to trust me, coz I can keep a se
cret as well as the next man."
Well, to tell you the truth, captain," I answered, more with
a desire to excite his curiosity than anything else, " I was in
search of a wife,"
* Don t do that out here in this hot quarter of the globe. There
ain t any fan in it, I tell you. Don t go and marry one of
black gab, with her skin shining like copal varnish, and her hair
greased like a slushed top-mast. Blast it, man, wait till yon get
home, and marry a Christian, with a white face, clean hands, and
who can talk your own lingo ; where two thirds of your nights
are cold, and mosquito bars ain t known. Take my word for it,
if you marry one of these natives youTI regret it afore you ve bin
spliced a week."
We soon reached the side of the ship. I mounted to the deck,
and. was received by the mate, who probably had been cur.ring
bis captain s late hours, and then was conducted to the cabin,
which was handsome enough for a packet-ship, and where a man
couldn t help taking comfort if so inclined.
" Here we are at last," cried Captain Miller, seating himself,
after putting away a few suspicions-looking packages which he
bad brought off ia his boat. ** What do you think of the Nancy?
She is as fast as she looks to be, and can knock the spots out
A GLASS OF PTTKCH. 293
of thirteen knots for hours, and not seem to be hard at work
either. Steward I "
A colored man made his appearance, rnbbing his eves as though
awakened from a sound nap.
< reward, lav out a suit of my best togs for this gentleman,
and then give me the Santa Cruz rum, and a few lemons and
sugar. Or, give me the rum first and the clothes afterwarc
can mix the punch while he is changing his clo: - x : ike a
glim in mv state-room, and let him go in there. Mind and don t
hit the chronometers. I d rather you would hit my wife.**
I found a neat suit of clothes ready for me, although I must
confess they were much too large ; but I didn t mind it, as there
20 ladies present to witness my exploits drinking punch or
which I must confess did ranch
towards relieving the sadness of my heart, when I thought how
near I had been to a::J ye: was compelled to-leave her.
* Come, don t stop to titivate yourself, for there s no women
here," I heard the captain shout. * The punch is all ready, and
I ve got the start of you by drinking a g
I hurried out and seated myself at the dining-table, at the head
of which the captain was installed in all ":..- ._ ./, a pipe in his
mouth, and a glass of punch in his hand.
" Here s cigars and pipes ; which do you prefer?" the captain
asked, filling i. .. . --
I lighted my cigar, tasted my grog, found that it was excellent,
and I didn t tail to say as much.
"Ah, there s no liquor like old Santa Cruz rum. if you get the
pure ; and I take care that I don t have anything t I
Did you ever cruise in the latitude of the West Inci
asked the captain, after he had paid his devoirs to the punch, ind
had refilled his pipe, and lighted it to his satisfaction,
1 shook my head in the ne_:a:ive.
"Taiu t a very pleasant latitude at certain seasons of the year,
for there s arthquakes and hurrycanes, and calms and rains in
abundance, and a man can t lay down and be certain that he s not
going to wake up with his masts over his side, or his ship on her
beam ends, and forked lightning playing round the chain topsail
sheets, like dandies round a ball-room belle. JKowsomever, that
has nothing to do with my yarn, as I knows of, although you
294 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. ,_
knows ai.d I knows, and every sailor knows, that it s awful hard
work to spin a yarn and not bring in a petticoat.
" I think that I was one day s sail from Santa Cruz, on the
night that I am about to tell you of. The wind was very light,
and we were not going through the water faster than two knots
an hour. I left the deck at ten o clock in charge of my mate, a
Salem-brecl boy, named Cooper, and a smart fellow he was. He
afterwards commanded the ship Sarlow, which you might have
heard of. She was lost at sea five years ago, and Cooper went
down with her, I expect, for he was never heard of. Left a
wife and three children, with money enough to get along without
trouble, and that s some comfort to a widow. I told Cooper to
keep a sharp look out for squalls and suspicious-looking vessels,
for we were directly in the track of homeward-bound slavers, and
as I had met them a number of times without any good result, I
was not anxious to see them again, and preferred giving them a
wide birth.
" I hadn t been napping more than two hours, when Mr. Cooper
called me.
" Captain, he said, * the moon is just rising through a black
cloud, and directly in its wake I can make out a vessel, braced
sharp up, and standing across our hawse, as though she wished to
speak us.
" I went on deck and took a squint at the craft that had some
what alarmed my mate, and I must confess that I didn t feel quite
satisfied with her looks, for she was a large topsail schooner, with
tremendous hoist to her sails, and they set as though made for
her by a master hand. The craft was low in the water, and was
as black as the devil is reported to be. I saw that the schooner
was jammed tight on the wind, and that she would be likely to pass
our bows, at the rate she was going, about half a cable s length
distance ; but while I was examining her through my glass, I saw
her sails were shaking, and that her headway was materially dead
ened. It seemed to me that her skipper wanted my vessel to
draw ahead, in hopes of not being noticed, and possibly he would
have succeeded had not Cooper s eyes ferreted him out.
" I examined the stranger for a few seconds, and then I came
to the conclusion that the chap was either a slaver uncertain of
our character or a pirate. But at all events, I determined to
A SUSPICIOUS CRAFT. 295
be prepared for either, for I thought that I had guns enough to
stand something of a tug before consenting to walk the plank.
t; Mr. Cooper, I said, just call all hands in a quiet way,
and let s get these guns ready for business. Don t make a fuss,
and seem frightened, cos there s no occasion for it.
" Ay, ay, sir, he answered, and in a few seconds the men
were on deck and casting loose the twelve pounders, all of which
had been loaded two days before, with canister and round shot,
and all that we had to do was to get up ammunition and place it
in the cabin handy, and then load our muskets, and take the
boarding pikes out of the racks.
" We are all ready, captain, my mate said in less than five min
utes after he received the orders ; the men are all stationed at
the guns and ready to fight at command/
" I hope that there 11 be no occasion for the use of the bull
dogs, I replied ; but there s no telling what that feller s inten
tions is. He still keeps his luff, for his sails are shaking, and he
don t draw ahead any.
" Perhaps he wants us to pass him, and not be noticed, my
mate remarked ; and I didn t know but such might be the case,
cos the brig did look very much like a man-of-war, and to tell
the truth, I had no objection to be taken for one of Uncle Sam s
vessels, cos it rather flattered my pride.
" By the time the stranger was off our beam, and when I began
to think that he cared nothing for us, he filled his sails and steered
so as to just ruu under our stern, and I didn t know but the fellow
was determined to rake us, and if he had, there wouldn t have
been anything left of us. However, I resolved to let him know
that we were not asleep, so I sprang into the main rigging and
hailed,
" Schooner, ahoy !
" There was no response ; but I could hear a bustle on deck, as
though there was some confusion at being spoken. I fancied that
there was some scuffling on deck, but I could not make out any
thing distinct. I thought that I would give him another chance
to reply, so I hailed again,
" 4 Schooner, ahoy ! and this time there was an attempt at au
answer.
" * Hallo ! came in gruff tones over the water.
" * What schooner is that? I demanded.
296 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
i.
" The- .
" There was a moment s hesitancy, and then some one in the
waist of the schooner shouted in startling tones,
u Help ! treachery ! murder !
" Gag the d n fool ! cried the man who was answering my
hail ; 4 gag him, and throw him overboard.
" There was another scuffle, and many suppressed mutterings,
and then I heard a woman s voice raised in imploring tones.
" Have mercy, gentlemen/ she cried ; and spare his life !
He will not offend you again ! he did not mean anything, I am
sure. O, let me entreat of you to spare his life/
"You see," said the captain, stopping to refill his pipe and tum
bler, " there s where the petticoat comes in. I told you I should
get hold of one during my yarn."
"Never mind the explanations," I replied, "go on with the
story, and let me hear how it terminated."
" I put my glass to my eye, and as the moon had got clear of a
black cloud, I w T as enabled to see what I had to deal with. I
could only make out half a dozen men on deck, and I calculated
that was all the schooner had on board. There was something
wrong going on, and I determined to investigate it, even if I was
exposed to some little peril. I determined on a bold stroke, al
though I had some fear of the result.
" Schooner, ahoy ! I shouted, just as she was directly astern
of us.
" Well, what is it? was the answer.
" Send a boat on board immediately, and let us see who you
are, I commanded.
" 4 Who in thunder are you? was the impudent question.
" The United States brig Perry, bound to Santa Cruz/
" There was a breathless silence for a moment, when suddenly 1
heard a shrill whistle on board of my own brig, such as is used
by boatswains of a national vessel when the crew are to perform
any work. The trick was one of Cooper s, and was intended to
aid me in the deception.
" Brace up the head yards ! I shouted, and the men left their
stations and performed the work without the usual accompaniment
of noise.
" I put my helm hard starboard, and the brig came quickly to
the wind, and remained stationary with her main-topsail to thi
A TELLING SHOT. 297
mast. Then we were heading in the same direction as the schoon
er ; but the latter did not seem in a hurry to obey my orders, and
send a boat on board. I could hear some loud talking on the
quarter-deck of the stranger, as though the officers and crew
were debating the feasibility of attempting to escape or fight. I
sincerely hoped that we should be spared the latter alternative,
cos I knew that at the very first broadside they would discover
our imposition, and rage like devils for revenge.
"In the mean time the schooner continued to draw ahead slowly,
as though to get beyond the reach of our guns ; but I determined
to prevent that by bracing up and maintaining my position. The
instant, however, that we had boarded the main tack, and >vere
making some headway through the water, I hailed the schooner
again.
" i Hallo ! was the gruff answer.
t; 4 Do you intend to send a boat on board, and give some ac
count of yourself? I demanded.
44 1 Ay, ay, sir, as soon as we can make her tight/
The answer I did not deem satisfactory, for it seemed to me as
though the crew were attempting some dodge that was dangerous
to our welfare, and I determined to prevent it if possible, by
taking them by surprise.
" Mr. Cooper, I said, i bring one of the larboard guns to bear
upon the fellow s bow, and see how near you can come to him.
Don t miss if you can help it.
u That was a job the mate liked, for his soft heart was all of
a tumult when he heard a woman s voice, and thought that a
female was in distress.
u l We are all ready, Mr. Cooper said, blowing a Josh stick
which we used to touch off our guns.
" I looked towards the schooner and saw that there was no rr ove-
ment for lowering a boat, and after listening quietly for a moment,
became satisfied that a desperate quarrel was raging on board,
but what it was all about I could not tell.
u Give them the gun, Cooper, I said ; and I had not much more
than spoken, before there was a stunning report, and the brig
shook from truck to kelson.
" I heard a crashing sound as the iron hail struck the schooner,
cutting the halyards of the jib, and letting that sail down by thci
298 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. v
run, and I could see numerous rents in the foresail through which
the grape shot had passed.
" Get the other gun ready, Cooper/ I said ; you have done
very well with the first one. Keep the brig well to the wind, so
that the stranger shan t get away from us/ I continued to the man
at the wheel.
" l The gun is all ready, sir/ my mate replied.
" Well, don t fire until I give the word. I don t want to kill
the poor devils, if I can help it. I ll try em with another hail, and
see if they have found their senses.
" 4 Schooner, ahoy ! I shouted ; 4 do you intend to send your
boat on board, or must I sink you with a broadside?
" Again I could hear the angry discussion going on, for we were
just abeam of the schooner, and were holding our owu with her,
no attempt having been made to hoist their jib. Suddenly I saw
a man spring upon the bulwarks.
u There is treachery and murder on board ; don t desert
" His speech was cut short by a blow ou his head, and with a
loud splash he fell into the wat^r. But the poor fellow had
strength to swim, for I saw him strike out towards our brig, al
though we were moving about three knots an hour.
" 1 Clear away the boat, Mr. Cooper, and pick that man up.
Mind and do it ship-shape fashion. No confusion or fear, for
we should have had a gun from the schooner if she had been
armed.
" It was the work of a few minutes to clear away the starboard-
quarter boat, and to send four men in it for the swimmer. I could
see that the crew of the schooner was watching the proceeding
from their vessel, and I managed to count twelve men, which I
supposed was all that they could muster. The boat soon reached
the swimmer, and took him on board, and then returned to the
brig. The stranger was helped over the rail, for he was quite
weak from the effects of a cut upon his head, which bled pro
fusely.
" 4 Sir/ he said, grasping my hand, and speaking with a Span
ish accent, you have saved my life, and I owe you a thousand
thanks. My gratitude, however, shall be more substantial than
words. I have a brother and sister on board, prisoners, and in
the power of a desperate man. Save them, and we are your debt
ors for life.
THE CAPTAIN S YARN. 299
" I ll do what I can for you, I replied ; c but my force is (fmal*
as you can see.
" Is this not a United States vessel? he demanded looking
over the deck in astonishment.
" I ts a United States vessel, but not a naval one, I answered.
" Then, for Heaven s sake, don t destroy the deception, for the
schooner is armed, and the crew will fight desperately. They
suppose that you are a brig of war, and the reason that I hailed
was because one half of the ruffians were advising a surrender,
and the other half wanted to fight you at all hazards.
" Here was a pretty kettle of fish, and no mistake. I had sup
posed all along that the schooner was unarmed, and that a few
discharges from our guns would be sufficient to compel a sur
render. If the scamps should discover the deception that we
had practised before we secure them our lives and property would
pay for it. Impudence was the only thing to carry us through,
and I determined to exercise a little of that which sometimes an
swers as well as courage.
" Schooner, ahoy ! I once more shouted ; if you don t send
a boat on board, I will blow you out of water. Pipe the men
to the guns, Mr. Cooper, and aim so as to sweep the vessel s
deck.
" The latter part of my remark was intended to be heard on
board of the schooner, for I spoke loud enough.
" Instantly the mate commenced a series of toots with his whis
tle, that would have done honor to the oldest boatswain in the
navy. The effect was beyond my most sanguine expectations, for
I heard the pirates clearing away their boat in sullen silence.
" 4 For the love of Heaven, sir, my new passenger pleaded,
" order them to bring as passengers my brother and sister, for I
fear every minute that they will be murdered by the desperate
ruffians. They have already threatened to do so half a dozen
times.
" I saw that the crew of the schooner were piling into the boat,
so I just told them to bring the woman and gentleman, and
that if they were ill treated I would hang every one of them at
the yard-arm. It was loud talk, but you see I had got my hand
in, and it kinder came natural to speak big.
" The fellows muttered something that I couldn t understand, but
I soon saw wliite petticoats going over the rail, and it made my
300 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
i,
heart jump that the lady was soon to be out of danger. I
counted seven persons in the boat, including the girl and her
brother, and as the boat was pulled by four oars, it didn t take
long for it to get alongside. I knew that the instant the yawl
touched the brig s side the. cheat would be discovered ; but I was
prepared for the scamps, and allowed them no opportunity to es
cape. I stationed Mr. Cooper and five of the crew .with loaded
muskets on the vessel s rail, while another hand held a small grap
pling-iron for the purpose of throwing it into the boat to prevent
the men from shoving off and returning to their vessel to reveal
our true character.
" Things worked just as I expected. No sooner had the pirates
shipped their oars when they got alongside, than one of them
said,
" Dis is no man-de-war. It is a d d merchautmens.
" Sacre, cried a Frenchman.
" Diablo/ muttered a Spaniard.
" Nix cumrouse, said a Dutchman.
" We are deceived shove off, cried a man in the &tern
sheets.
" l Not as you know of, cried Cooper. The man who offers
to lift an oar dies instantly.
" The six muskets were pointed within a fathom of the pirates
heads, and then down into the boat was dropped the kedge. It
caught in the bow thwart, and held the boat firm alongside, and
the only way to get clear of it was to cut the rope ; but at the first
intimation of that we would have blown them to pieces.
" I ll trouble you to walk over the side, one by one, Mr. Cooper
said, addressing the pirates. * The least noise or resistance shall
cost you dearly. Walk up like men and settle your accounts, cos
we would like to show the lady some attention, for the poor thing
looks as though she was not partial to your company.
u 4 It s a mean Yankee trick, muttered the man in the stern
sheets, who I afterwards found out was the captain of the schooner,
and an Englishman by birth. 4 If I had known for sum that you
were nothing but a merchantman, I d blown your tub out of the
water.
" But, as you didn t know anything about it, we have saved you
some trouble. So just walk up, and quit grumbling, for it won t
do you any good ; and Mr. Cooper s advice was followed, for the
PIRATES AS PRISONERS. 301
skipper came slowly over the bulwarks, and as soon as he struck
the deck his arms were seized, and a nice pair of handcuffs were
thrust upon his wrists.
" Hands were also thrust into his pockets, and a pair of pistols
and a huge bowie-knife were found, and after the fellow was dis
armed, he was shoved down the after hatch with a gag in his mouth,
to prevent his shouting too loud. Every man was served in the
same manner, and then I assisted the lady on deck, and very hap
py was I to do so, for she was a beautiful craft, with the prettiest
pair of eyes that ever wrecked a sailor, and I think that I am a
judge of beauty.
" Which is the captain? she asked, the first thing, as soon as
she reached the deck.
u Mr. Cooper and her brother pointed to me, and bless me if she
didn t give a little scream and throw herself on my bosom, while
her arras went round my neck as tight as a cap fits to a top-mast.
" O, capitani, she said, 4 you is mine preserver ; my angel
my good man my everything.
" Hard up, I cried, for you see I couldn t stand it. 4 Ease
off a little, and belay the rest for a while, mum. Don t take on
so, cos there s much more work to be done afore you is safe.
" Well, she kissed me three or four times and then her brother
took her off ; but I didn t feel much obliged to him, I tell you, cos
her lips was awful sweet and red.
" I told her folks to take her into the cabin, and give her some
thing to eat if she desired it, cos I wanted to be perlite, and show
her some attention ; but she said that she wasn t hungry, and
should have no appetite until the rest of the pirates was secured ;
but how to get em was a question that I had asked my own mind
half a dozen times, and no satisfactory answer had been returned.
I had the skipper and half of his crew ; but there were six more
that I wanted, or my work would be incomplete, for it was plain
that the schooner was faster than the brig, and that she could fight
us running a race I had no relish for, for you know that it don t
take many shots between wind and water to send a vessel and
crew to Davy Jones s locker.
" * Captain, said Mr. Cooper, while I was meditating, I know
what you are thinking about, and the only way that it can be
done is to send me on board in the boat, with half a dozen of the
302 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
crew, and take possession. We can go well armed, and still make
em think that we are Uncle Sam s men/
" I didn t like to run the risk, but Cooper was so positive that I
consented to let him undertake the job. For the purpose of car
rying out the deception, I lent the mate a cap and coat with brass
buttons, and put a sword at his waist, while the six men he took
with him put on white duck trousers, so as to appear as uniform
as possible. Well armed, the crew started in the schooner s boat,
although for the sake of seeming all right it was piped away in
man-of-war style.
" I watched the course of the boat with considerable anxiety, for
I feared that every minute the pirates would let one of their guns
fly, and send boat and men all to the bottom ; but fortune favors
the brave, they say, and in this instance I can swear to it. The
boat got alongside without trouble, and the next instant the men
had tumbled on deck. There was no sound of fighting or scuf
fling, but I knew that the mate was at work, and at last I had the
satisfaction of hearing him hail, and say, that the schooner s crew
were all prisoners and under hatches, where they could do no
harm.
u Then I began to breathe freer ; I told the mate to stick close
to the brig until daylight, when we would see what could be done,
for 1 didn t know, as yet, on what ground we had taken the schoon
er. I axed the brothers to reel me off an account of their adven
tures, and they did so in a ship-shape fashion. They belonged to
Santa Cruz, where they owned a large plantation, and were
looked upon as A No. 1 in rank. They had bought the schooner
for the purpose of trading among the islands, and I guess for run
ning a few cargoes of niggers ; but that they said nothing about.
They had hired a man, who called himself Smith, an English
man, as skipper, and he shipped his crew, and a bad lot he got
hold of. One day, when the vessel was all ready for sea, the broth
ers and sister were invited on board, and while they were enjoy
ing themselves in the cabin the cable was slipped, and the schoon
er put to sea, and before the owners knew where they were, or
what was going on, they were out of the bay, and the mask was
thrown off. The skipper made no secret of his intentions to visit
the coast of Africa, and by way of making things pleasant, offered
to make the lady his mistress or his wife, he was not particular
which, and if we had not fallen in with him juat us we did, I
THE STORY CONCLUDED. 303
don t think that he would have waited for a priest to perform the
ceremony.
u However, we took the schooner into port and she was con
demned, and the crew imprisoned, and I made ten thousand dol
lars by the job. And now driuk one more glass of grog, and then
to bed, for four bells has struck, and it s time I was asleep."
There was no other course but compliance, and in a few minutes
I was dreaming of Teresa, priests, and pirates.
" Come, rouse and shine," I heard some one say, while dream-
ir.g of my wife and happiness. " It s near seven bells, and break
fast is most ready. You sleep as sound as the ground tier, and
are about as hard to move. Come, make a stir, and be ready to
go on shore with me by at least nine o clock."
I was too willing to comply, for with morning and rest came
the recollection that I had a holy duty to perform, which I had
neglected by visiting the Nancy, and listening to the captain s
yarns. I sprang from my berth, and after a bath in an origi
nal bath-tub, invented by the captain, and which he expected
to have patented some day, I dressed and was ready for break
fast.
" I don t expect company," Miller said, as we took our seats
at the table, " so I have nothing that is very nice for breakfast.
Such as I have you are welcome to, and if you don t find any
thing to suit your appetite, you must save it till you get on shore.
I m a plain man, and like good plain grub."
In spite of the captain s apologies, I found that his breakfast,
as he really intended it should be, was excellent, and consisted
of a piece of cold salt beef, a luxury I had not tasted for many
days, curried rice and chicken, a respectable omelet, light warm
biscuit, and butter brought from Boston, and as fresh as the day
it was made.
When breakfast was finished, I was ready for the land. The
instant the banco struck the quay I leaped on shore, and was
about to bid adieu to the captain, when he laid his hand upon my
shoulder, and detained me.
" Avast, my hearty, and don t be in such a hurry to claw off
as though on a lee shore. I ve got a proposition to make to you.
Come to an anchor for a minute, and listen to reason. Don t you
think of marrying one of these yaller gals take my advice, and
don t do it. If you want a sailing partner through this ere voyage
304 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. v
of life, and want something nice, I ll let you have the pick of my
daughters. That s an offer I wouldn t make to every man, but I"
do to you cos I ve taken a fancy to you."
" Captain," I replied, " I feel highly favored by your esteem
and confidence, but there s an impediment in the way."
" What in the devil s an impediment?" he growled.
" Why, a wife, to be sure ; " and I broke away from him just
in time to hear him mutter,
" By thunder, I thought so all along ! "
I did not dare to look back for fear the captain would again
make me a prisoner ; so pushed on through the crowd of boat
men until I reached a carriage, and gave directions for the driver
to take me to my house without delay.
As I entered the court-yard of the house, I was surprised to
see there were many signs of neglect on the part of the servants.
The horses had not, apparently, received their morning meal, the
yard had not been swept, or the sidewalk washed. I passed up
the broad staircase without meeting any one, and continued on
until I reached the sitting-room, when I was surprised to hear
some one weeping. I listened for a moment, and found that the
sounds proceeded from my chamber. I entered, and saw Gracia,
with her face in her hands, kneeling before a picture of the Virgin
and Child, and crying bitterly.
" What is the matter, Gracia? " I asked, laying my hand upon
her head.
The girl started to her feet with a scream of delight, and before
I was aware of the fact, her arms were around my neck, and her
head was resting on my bosom. I was so much surprised that
for a minute or two I remained motionless ; then the thoughts of
my position flashed across my mind, and I remembered that my
honor, as a married man, was in danger. Gently I disengaged
the young girl s arms, and led her to a seat.
" Pardon me, senor," she said ; " I was so rejoiced at your ap
pearance that I forgot my position."
" There is no great harm done," I answered, with a smile ;
u but pray be a little more careful with your demonstrations of
pleasure in future. I understand that you feel grateful to me for
a few favors, but don t let the world imagine that we stand upon
a false basis."
* 1 will try and remember in future, senor," she answered, her
A SURPRISE.
305
eyes filling with tears and her face with blushes. " I could not
help feeling surprised to see you alive, when I was mourning you
as dead."
" And pray who told you I was dead? " I asked, somewhat as
tonished at the information.
" Your friends, the Senor Allen and the, other mail, were here
last night, and seemed quite anxious regarding you. Their clothes
were wet, and they talked in low tones of your mishap, as they
thought you must be drowned. Seiior Allen was much affected,
but your other friend did not appear to mourn much."
" No, I suppose not," I muttered. " It would have been singu
lar if the spy cared enough for any human being to mourn his
death. How could they have made such a mistake as to imagine
me drowned ? "
" Because they searched the river, and saw nothing of you, and
then thought you would return home if alive. They waited here
until two o clock, and then gave up all hope of your being in the
land of the living."
" Confound the luck/ I thought. " I had no business to go
on board the Nancy last night. Like a respectable citizen, I should
have come home, and gone to bed, and not given my friends so
much trouble. I must start for Santa Mesa without delay, and
let them see that I am alive and well, barring the effects of that
punch. It was confounded good, though."
These thoughts passed through my brain very rapidly. I de
termined to visit the factory, and let Allen and the priest see that
I was not quite dead, and then return to the city and recommence
my search with renewed ardor. Just as I arrived at this sage
conclusion, one of my servants entered the house, and expressed
the utmost astonishment at my visit ; but I quickly changed his
tone to one of anguish, for I gave him a most unmerciful rating
for neglecting his duties, and getting partially intoxicated, under
the impression that I was many feet under water. Indeed, to
Gracia alone was I indebted for preventing the rascals from strip
ping the house of everything of value, and selling the same for
what they could get. The girl had threatened them so severely
that they had desisted from their object, and walked off to cele
brate my supposed death by getting drunk if possible.
The boy begged and promised good behavior, and left the house,
rubbing his shoulders, in search of the coachman ; for I thought I
20
#06 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. ,_
would give the lazy scamp something to do besides drinking weak
wine, and wondering whether my soul was ill the realms of the
blessed, or those of the damned.
It was wonderful how soon the news spread among my do
mestics that I was alive. By the time I had dressed in habili
ments that fitted me better than those of Captain Miller s, the
house was looking as neat as ever. The floors were waxed, and
the yard swept ; the dishes were washed, and put in their proper
places ; and in each room the furniture had been dusted and
arranged. The scamps knew that one of their number had been
thrashed, and all felt they deserved a like fate ; but my time was
too precious to indulge in such amusement, and after a few con
soling words to Gracia, I drove off at a gallop for Santa Mesa.
I left my carriage at the corner of the road that leads to the
factory, and started alone for the house of my friends. We all
feel as though we would like to know what is said of us after
death ; and as I was supposed to be dead, I considered that I had
a right to judge of the estimation in which I was held by those
with whom I was associated for so many mouths. Instead, there
fore, of approaching the house in front, I scaled the adobe wall,
aLd entered by the rear ; and luckily I did not meet a single ser
vant, although workmen were seen in abundance. I noiselessly
ascended the stairs, and looked in at the door. Benventuro, Allen,
and Tom were seated at the table, eating dinner ; and a very hearty
one I judged it was, from the number of dishes before them.
" Poor fellow ! " I heard the priest say, holding out his plate
for an additional supply of curry and chicken ; " his early death
has quite spoiled my appetite. I don t feel as though I should
enjoy life again. The shock to my nervous system has been too
great."
" Who will take care of that pretty little girl of his in Manila? "
demanded Tom, his thoughts evidently on the probable result of
her falling into his hands.
" She might enter my convent," the priest suggested. " I can
provide for her there, I think."
" O, blast your convent ! Do you suppose a woman wants to
be locked up in a convent all her lifetime? " Tom asked.
" For my part," Allen said, speaking for the first time, " I am
of the opinion that he may yet be alive. He was a stout swim
mer, and may have been picked up by a banco bound on a cruise
SPECULATIONS. 307
in the bay. I shan t give him up for lost for two or three days
to come.*
" What do you suppose his wife will say ? " Tom asked.
* I expect she will act like other women shed a few tears at
first, and then think of somebody else, of course," was the priest s
ungallaut reply.
" She is the handsomest woman that I ever saw," Tom con
tinued. " She bangs everything I ever saw in York. She d make
a sensation in that city."
I saw the priest glance at Tom s face as though reading his
thoughts, but the scrutiny did not appear satisfactory. Could he
have already considered whether a bargain with Tom would be
advantageous for his convent aud himself? At any rate, I had
heard as much as I desired ; so I stalked slowly into the room.
" Can you give me a dinner?" I asked, in a sulphurous tone.
There were sudden springs from the table ; chairs were over
turned, glasses were dashed to the floor, and then I found Allen s
arms around me, while the priest, with his long garments in both
hands, was performing a most ungraceful dance, which I could
compare only to the floundering of an elephant. Tom suddenly
disappeared from the room after one or two yells, which he used
to assure us were exact imitations of the calls of York Bowery
boys ; and I never had occasion to question the truth of the as
sertion.
" This day," said the priest, sinking into a chair, and fanning
his heated face, u is one of the happiest of my life. The dead
has come to life. I knew my son was never intended for such a
death. Not two minutes since I said the same thing."
" What an old humbug you are ! " cried Allen. " You have
done nothing but prophesy the worst things imaginable for the
last three hours, and now you have the impudence to speak as
one inspired."
" I appeal to Tom," roared the priest ; but just at the moment
that individual entered the room with a bottle of champagne under
each arm.
" This event must be celebrated in due form ! " Tom exclaimed.
" Here s the articles to do it with, and now let us sit down and
finish our breakfast with far better spirits than when we began."
Aftsr that I couldn t bear enmity towards a man who had taken
308 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. v
the liberty of culling my wife handsome, and wishing that he pos
sessed just such a one.
We sat down to the table, and all were anxious to hear my
statement. Feeling a little ashamed of my conduct, I sketched
my adventures as briefly as possible, but took care to convey the
impression that visiting the ship was not the result of deliberation,
but of accident. Without telling a deliberate falsehood I suc
ceeded in extricating myself from the position in which I was
placed, and I believe to the satisfaction of my friends.
" You should have remained in the banco," Allen said, after I
had concluded. " That jump of yours cost us all pretty dear, for
when you left our boat you look care to capsize it, and into the
water we went as well as yourself. Instead of going through one
of the arches, however, we lodged on the stone-work of the bridge,
and remained there until taken off by a passing banco. As soon
as we landed we went to your house, and frightened Gracia out
of her seven senses by asking if you had been there, and to our
great surprise we learned that you had not. I concluded that you
was drowned, although I sincerely hoped not. We lost our prize,
and you must alone blame yourself, for you was too eager."
* Eager in a good cause, though," the priest said, encouraging
ly, touching glasses, and swallowing a bumper of champagne
an example that was so contagious we all followed suit ; nor did
they stop at two bottles ; for, I am sorry to say, when they once
commenced they hardly knew where to leave off; and while we
were in the midst of our revels, who should enter the room but
Antonio, the spy? He surveyed the condition of the party with
out the least surprise, and when the priest roared out that he was
the most dishonest scamp in the country, looked as though he tried
to believe it.
" The seuor is safe," he said, with a grin that was intended
for me.
" And no thanks to you ! " thundered the priest. " How dare
you, ladroue, let one of my friends fall overboard, and narrowly
escape drowning! Have I not learned you better manners?"
u It was the senor s fault alone," Antonio answered j and I
backed that opinion so strongly, the priest W 7 as obliged to admit
that his protege was not so bad as he might be.
" You shall drink a glass of wine with us, and hope for better
NEWS OF THE MISSING. 309
luck the next time," I cried, handing the fellow a bumper, which
he tossed off with considerable relish.
" Do you bring us news, Antonio?" Benventuro asked.
" I do, senor," was the answer.
" Well, what is it? Speak quickly, and speak plainly."
" The lady, senor, is at the Convent of San Sebastian."
" How know you this? " we all asked in a breath.
" I heard so not two hours since, senors."
" Bah ! the report may have been false."
" No, senors ; I saw the lady with my own eyes, looking through
a grating."
" Tell me," I cried, starting from the table, sobered in a minute,
" how she looked and acted, or what she said."
" Senor, I had no time to speak with her, and if I had looked
long in one direction, my motives would have been suspected. I
saw the lady, however, and mournful enough she seemed."
" Is there any chance for her to escape? Can I see her? Can
I speak with her, even for a moment ? " I cried, trembling with
impatience.
u What madness to ask such a question ! " the priest said.
" Every avenue to the convent is guarded, and you can t pass iu
or out without being noticed."
" I have thought of a plan," the spy remarked, after a moment s
consideration, " that I think might answer. I found out that
Father Juan has gone to Caveta, to be absent two or three days,
and the business that called him away was too urgent to be neg
lected, even for the sake of Donna Teresa. I also learned that
he removed her to the convent thinking she would be safer there
than at Mother Machit s, although, to tell the truth, I think the
padre suspected the old woman might be bribed to give the lady
up to her friends."
" Well, well, never mind what you suspect. Let us hear what
your plans are, and then we will debate whether they are feasi
ble," the priest said.
" Si, senor, that is what I a; Doming to. I think that if a
man could be smuggled into the convent, there would not be much
trouble to remove the iron bars, and let the lady escape in the
night time."
" But how is a man to enter the convent?" Allen asked.
" He must do it in disguise," was the spy s answer.
310 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" And what kind of disguise do you suppose a man can wear,
to deceive the Argus eyes of the convent people?" I demanded.
" He must go disguised as a woman, senor," was the answer.
" Bah ! " cried the priest ; " Father Juan is too sharp to be
caught in that manner. He would detect the imposition at a
glance."
" Father Juan would, but the padre is not at the convent, and
if things are managed rightly the lady will be free before he re
turns. I can have an interview with my friend, who acts during
his absence, and by the free use of wine I don t think he will be
in a condition to tell a woman from a monkey, and before he gets
sober Donna Teresa can be at liberty."
"And pray how?" demanded the priest, who, being in the
same business that Father Juan was, felt a little interested.
" We must be near the convent at a certain hour, and re
main there until daylight, waiting for signals from the one who
is within. A rope-ladder must be drawn up, and by that, after
the iron bars are wrenched from the window, must the lady
escape."
For a few minutes we remained quite silent, astonished at the
bold plan that was laid before us. Suddenly Allen spoke.
" You have told us how to get out, now tell us how to get in
the convent."
" The matter is quite simple, senor. One of you must act the
lady, and the seuor (pointing to Tom) must play the part of a
lover. He is unknown, and can do so with my friend without
detection. He must represent that he wishes to board the lady
at the convent for a few days, until his vessel sails. If he pays
an ounce in advance, but a very few questions will be asked of
him."
" There s something in the fellow s reasoning, after all. Guil-
lerino. can t you take the part of a woman for a few hours ? "
I rubbed my mustache as an answer.
" O, it can be shaved off, and your whole face made smooth
in ten minutes. If you could look a little modest, I should have
no fears for the result."
I had to thank the priest for his good opinion, and after a few
more words I agreed to enter the Convent of San Sebastian in the
character of a woman, and thus make a bold blow for rny wile.
A NEW CHARACTER. 311
The feat was a perilous one, but the prize was worthy of all tho
danger incurred.
Tom was the most disgusted man in the party, and he did not
conceal it.
" To think that I should ever make love to a man," he said,
" is more than I can endure. If he was good-looking, I should not
care ; but for a smoker of cigars and a drinker of punch to expect
me to be overcome with anguish at parting with him, is too ridicu
lous. However, I will do as well as I can, if I can keep from
laughing."
u And if you laugh, you will have the satisfaction of knowing
that you have not only ruined me, but perhaps deprived my wife
of her liberty for life," I said.
After that I heard no more of levity from Tom. He entered
into our arrangements with avidity, and was not at all backward
in helping us to the extent of his ability.
We took the factory banco, and rowed to Manila as quick as
possible ; and then my friends scattered to find a wig that would
fit my head, and pass off for a woman s glossy locks. The priest
was the most fortunate in this respect, for he borrowed one
from a lady friend of his ; as she was fat and plump, her false
hair fitted me admirably. The next thing was the dress ; but
even this difficulty was overcome by Allen, who borrowed a very
pretty muslin, and all the paraphernalia of a well-conditioned
woman, from the wife of an American captain, whose vessel was
lying in port.
I was subject to many remarks which a lady would not have
listened to in silence ; but I was compelled to submit and undergo
the tedious operation of trying on the dress and skirts, and prac
tising a fascinating kind of walk, that was so entirely different
from my own, I feared my feet would rebel at the treatment they
were constrained to undergo. As a last resort we found that it
was necessary to send for Gracia, and let her into our secret, for
the purpose of giving me a few instructions in woman s depart
ment. Very much surprised and grieved the poor girl was when
she learned my destination , and it required all my assurance to
convince her that I was not rushing upon certain death to thus
think of visiting a convent in disguise.
At length I think I learned how to step lighter and more min
cing than usual, and after I had suffered the manipulations of a
312 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
,
barber, who touched my face so lightly, that not a hair could be
seen except upon my eyebrows, I was declared ready for the final
dressing. At this stage Antonio left the house for the convent,
with four bottles of champagne in a basket a sight that caused
the priest to sigh most dolefully, and to wish that his duty led him
to undertake so delicious a job as drinking the best of cham
pagne.
" You will want these few articles in your pockets, in case the
bars are obstinate, and refuse to yield," Antonio said, laying upon
the table a saw not longer than my finger, yet of such admirable
steel, that it was capable of cutting through the most obdurate
iron, a small iron "jimmy," such as burglars find very useful
in this country, a revolver not larger than a baby s hand, and
lastly, a ball of twine.
Luckily, our women are fond of convenience, and therefore
have quite a number of pockets in their skirts and dresses ; so I
had no difficulty in placing all the tools, so kindly loaned me,
out of sight ; yet I had only to raise my dress and they were at
hand.
By three o clock I was dressed, not in the Spanish style, for
iny shoulders and bust would not have borne an inspection, but
after the manner of a young maiden, chary of her charms, and
inclined to modesty ; and after I was all ready with an elegant
white bonnet, covered with flowers of every hue, and a thick veil
to hide my blushes, I ventured to approach the glass and view my
self; and I don t fear contradiction, when I boldly state that I
have seen worse looking women than the counterfeit which I pre
sented.
" A trifle more stuffing for the chest," said the priest, " would
improve the appearance of things in that region. Here, look at
Gracia, and see the difference between the two ; " and despite the
girl s blushes, he compelled her to stand beside me to show the
contrast.
The defect was soon remedied, and then they complained that
my dress did not have the right swell in the rear, and consider
able work was required before that defect was remedied, and I
was declared, even by the fastidious Tom, a fit subject for his
gallantry.
" Perhaps it would be as well if you understood only the Eng.
lish language, while at the convent. It would save you many
OFF FOR THE CONVENT. 313
questions, if brought in contact with the inmates of the institu
tion," the priest said. " Let Tom represent that his lady is a
Catholic, and desirous of remaining at the convent while he is
absent from the city on business ; and he may represent anything
else he pleases, that is not improbable. He is conversant enough
with the language to make himself understood, and if he sticks
for a word, let him hold out a gold piece. That is a language
which is known the world over. None fail to comprehend its
magic influence, and but few can withstand its temptation, more
is the pity."
The good man sighed, as though he was never guilty of taking
a bribe in his life.
Tom listened to his instructions with a greedy ear, and felt
quite proud to think that his Spanish was complimented, for he
was rather weak on that point.
After a few more lessons a carriage was called, and Tom, hat
in hand, assisted me to it. I heard a suppressed exclamation as
I passed down the stairs, and, on looking back, saw that little
Gracia was crying as though her heart would break.
" We shall remain in the house until night, and will take care
of your servant," Allen said.
u But remember she is to be treated like a sister during my
absence," I replied.
" Of course, honor bright, you know ; " and before I had time
to say more, Tom hurried me to the carriage, and we drove off,
the priest at an upper window pronouncing a benediction upon us
as we started.
While riding through the streets, I began to comprehend the
magnitude of the undertaking which I had commenced. I knew
there was much danger, but I felt that I was ready to encounter
it for the love of my beautiful wife. It seemed to me that if
I could only be assured of her escape, I would willingly assume
much greater risks. We rattled over the bridge that spans the
Pasig at a much faster rate than I thought necessary, and I would
willingly have told the driver to use less expedition, if I had cot
feared to betray my knowledge of the Spanish language by speak
ing. It struck me also, that Tom had given secret orders for
a quick pace ; for, confound him, I really believe that he was
somewhat ashamed of his company, although I am sure I looked
very well, and even commanded the respect of three Spanish
814 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. ^
officers, who took off their hats and made me a low bow, just as
we reached the end of the bridge.
" Well, if they ain t big fools not to know a woman from a
man ! " my friend muttered.
The Convent of San Sebastian is located in the city proper of
Manila, near the border of the bay, and to reach it agate guarded
by soldiers has to be passed. The gate, after eleven o clock, is
closed, and none can pass or repass without a written permit,
signed by the captain of the guard, or the governor general. I
had not thought of the matter before, till it suddenly occurred to
me that, if we could not leave the city at any hour of the night,
Teresa s escape would be frustrated.
" Tom," I said, addressing my companion, who was sucking
the head of his cane with a diligence that was worthy of all
praise, " you must tell Benventuro to get a written pass for our
party to leave the city. He is gifted with an imagination suf
ficient to find an excuse for asking for such a document. Don t
forget to remind him of it.*
* All right," Tom answered, taking his cane from his mouth
a sufficient length of time to speak, and then recommenced suck
ing it as though dying for nourishment.
In a few minutes the carriage entered the court-yard of the
convent, a gloomy-looking building, with a wall extending com
pletely around it, excepting on that portion which faced the street ;
and that part of the structure had no windows in the first story,
for fear the curiosity of the citizens might be provoked and ex
cited. I glanced towards the windows in the second story, and
saw that a number of faces were peering at us through the iron
bars, but I did not recognize the features of my wife.
The instant the carriage was within the court-yard, the heavy
gates were closed as though to cut off all retreat. I glanced at
Tom, and saw that his face was pale as ashes, and that he was
visibly agitated. I felt my heart beat quick, but by a powerful
effort I managed to maintain my composure, and seem indif
ferent.
" What is your pleasure, senor?" asked the portero, an aged
man with a face that w r ould not pass for an honest one in any
part of the world.
" We wish to see the holy Father Juan," Tom managed to
unswer.
IN THE CONVENT. 315
" He is absent, senor, and will not return until day after to
morrow."
How my heart jumped at these words ! I could have embraced
the man for joy, and even his face did not look as bad as when
I first saw it.
" I have ti lady here I wish to board at the convent for a few
days," Tom managed to say.
" Ah, Lorenzo can attend to you as well as the padre. I will
call him, senor, if you will enter our poor abode."
Tom assisted me to alight, and with as much grace as possible,
I entered the reception-room of the convent. The porter disap
peared, and left us wondering whether Lorenzo was the person
Antonio had spoken of, and whether he was drunk enough to suit
our purpose. We did not have to wait more than ten minutes
for the steward s appearance, and the instant he entered the room,
I was confident that at least one bottle of my champagne wa8
beneath his waist-belt, and that he was anxious to put another
there without any unnecessary delay. He cast an impatient glance
at me, but my blushes were partly concealed by the lace veil, which
I found stood me in good service.
" What are your wishes, senor? " the steward asked of Tom.
" Well, I you see going out of town a few days this
lady feared don t like to stay alone pay you well for your
trouble money no object;" and Tom stumbled on in his con
fusion, until I feared he would spoil all by his conduct.
But luckily for us Lorenzo was about half happy, and was
anxious to be wholly happy ; so he paid but little attention to my
friend. He only knew that an application was made to board a
lady for a few days, and as the request was not a singular or
unusual one, he only stopped to consider if there was money
enough in the pocket of the gentleman to pay for the accommoda
tion desired. I saw what was passing in the man s mind, and I
spoke to Tom in English.
" Hand him the ounce, and promise another if I am well ac
commodated," I said.
Tom thrust his hand in his pocket, and exposed to the glisten
ing eyes of the steward several doubloons.
" Give the lady the best of accommodations and kind treatment,
B,nd another ounce shall be yours," he cried.
" She shall be treated like a princess, senor," Lorenzo said,
816 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
pocketing the money with wonderful dexterity, and then ringing
a bell that rested upon the table.
The ringing was instrumental in calling to the room a thin,
withered old woman, with a huge bundle of keys attached to her
girdle, and a nose that looked snuffy.
" Here is a lady who is to board at the convent for a few days.
She is to receive the best of attention, and the best foo<j," the
steward said.
" And where am I to find the time to attend to all the women,
I should like to know. There s one here now, who keeps me
running from morning till night, and I don t get a civil word from
her. I wish that she was miles from here, or with her husband
she keeps calling for all the time."
" Don t get angry, Barbara, for you will have a spell to rest
your weary limbs by and by, when the convent is rich. Show
the senora to her room, and introduce her to the sisters, if she
desires company."
The old woman didn t refuse to obey the commands of the
steward, although she continued to mutter to herself and take
snuff with avidity.
* Well," said Tom, rising, " I suppose this is a hint for me to
make myself scarce, and I am only too glad to do so. Good by
(after an immense struggle), my dear, and don t keep awake nights
thinking of me."
He held out his hand as he spoke, but the eyes of the steward
were on us, and I determined to save my reputation for affec
tion, even if I lost it afterwards. We were conversing in Eng
lish, which language I supposed the two listeners knew nothing
about.
u Thomas, my beloved," I cried, throwing my arms around his
neck, and straining his head to my bosom, " farewell. Avoid
bad company and you will be happy. Keep in doors nights, and
don t expose yourself more than possible to the blandishments of
women."
" O, bother ! " cried the lover, with a shade of vexation upon
his face. " Don t make a fool of yourself. I can t stand it, and
I won t. I suppose you will want to kiss me next."
" And what would be the harm if I did ? " I demanded. " Ain t
you the idol of my soul ? and won t I be true to you during your
absence ? "
AN AFFECTING SCENE. 317
" Go to thunder ! " he cried, breaking away from my embrace ;
Bad to prevent his disgust from being seen, hid his face in his
handkerchief.
;t The senor is affected at parting," cried the steward ; " but
the senor must remember that it is but for a short time."
Tom could not reply. He went out of the room in a hurry,
and after the old woman had looked me over a little, she told me
to follow her a command that I obeyed with some readiness.
" But few English women visit our convent," the old woman
said, as she hobbled along before me, while mounting a flight of
steps.
I pretended not to understand, and my cicerone, after waiting
a moment, continued :
" I wonder if all the English ladies can walk up stairs as fast
as she does. May the saints preserve me, she seems capable of
taking two steps at a time."
I took the hint instantly, and modulated the length of my
strides.
44 1 wonder if she will be troublesome, and want much atten
tion while here? because she won t get it from me, I can tell her
that much. I hope she will give me something when she goes
away, because I m nearly out of snuff and cigars."
" Senora," I managed to say, " me give you this, very good
me."
I put in her hand an ounce of gold, and the stare that she gave
the money and me was highly ludicrous.
" For me? " she asked, thumping herself upon her bony breast.
" Si," I replied.
" Muchas gracias, senora" she cried ; and in spite of my resist
ance, she seized my hand and covered it with kisses. " Only to
think," the old woman continued, talking to herself, u a doubloon
given me, and Father Juan will never know it. I can buy cigars
enough to last ten years, and a drop of wine, too, if need be.
Some ladies are liberal, that is a fact, and this one shall fare well
for her generosity."
By the time she had finished speaking, we had passed through
several doors, which were carefully bolted after us ; and then 1
found that we were in a long corridor, with chambers on each
side. The doors stood open, and I was enabled to see that the rooms
contained but an apology for a bedstead, and only a blanket and
318 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
a small pillow for bedding. No girls were visible, and I rightly
conjectured that they were in another part of the building at work,
embroidering handkerchiefs and dresses. I saw that one side of
the corridor overlooked the street and the other a large garden,
and I trembled for fear that I should be given a room on the latter
side. But the old woman, after a moment s hesitancy, muttered
to herself,
" I ll give her a room where she can look at the men once in a
while, for they say that some women like to be in the company
of the brutes, although for what reason is more than I can tell."
I found that I had some trouble to keep my countenance just
at that moment, for it occurred to me that the venerable virgin
knew but little of the world, and its pleasures and pains.
" Here," she said, pointing to a room of more pretensions than
the others, " you may sleep or sit, just as you please. If you
want company I will send some of the sisters to attend you, or,
if you would like, you can go to the work-rooms and the gardens,
and see them."
I don t suppose she had the slightest idea that I understood
her ; but her gestures and grimaces were so expressive that no
one could hardly have helped comprehending some portion of her
signs. I thought I would visit the garden, and found a few words
to state my wish.
" Our garden does not amount to much, for the convent is poor.
But it looks very well. I have no doubt that we shall find a num
ber of the sisters, and perhaps one or two of the boarders there."
I hoped that among them I should see my wife, yet I trembled
with agitation at the thought.
" Our rooms don t look so well as usual to-day, for the holy
Father Juan is absent, and the sisters and boarders take advan
tage at such times. Last night, may the saints protect me, they
acted like young devils, and all I could do or say was not sufficient
to keep them quiet. Their talk was not of saints, but of men aud
worldly matters."
I thought that they but proved themselves women, whether
confined in convents or parlors ; and if they had not sometimes
exercised their tongues, they would not have been worthy the
name of females.
The old woman opened a door and led me down a long flight
of st one steps, and when we reached the bottom, I found I was
THE CONVENT GARDEN. 319
already in the garden, but shut in by such high walls that the
surrounding houses could not be seen, and any attempt to scale
the walls, without a long ladder, would have been useless. I found
that the garden consisted of a number of well-laid-out w r alks, a
few fruit trees, and an arbor, which was at the farther end, and
covered with grape vines. Just as we entered the garden, I saw
a young girl leave the arbor and advance to meet us. She was
very handsome, and but a few years younger than Teresa.
" Well, Sara, is she still the same? " asked my companion.
"There is no change her husband is the only one who occu
pies her thoughts for a moment. With him she could live or die.
Without him "
" Well."
She will die."
My head seemed to swim at the conversation, and I was com
pelled to lean against a tree for support. It seemed to me that
they were speaking of my wife, and I longed to question them, but
did not dare to.
u Does she weep?" my companion asked, speaking of some
person who appeared to be in the arbor.
" Sometimes she is in tears, and sometimes she is loud in her
exclamations of auger, and threatens loudly. Poor lady ! I pity
her," the gentle-looking nun said.
" Pity her for what? " Barbara demanded, in a shrill tone, and
with some asperity. " Because she persists in refusing to be happy
and spending her days with us in peace and quietness, instead
of being trampled upon by brutal men ? I am ashamed of you,
Sara."
" I m sure I didn t mean anything that is wrong," sighed the
pretty little nun, her dark eyes cast to the ground, as though she
was trying to trace in the sand a picture of one of the detested
men mentioned by her antique mentor. " I am sure, Barbara,
I like the life of a nun ; but I should think it must be very
pleasant to live in the -world, and be married to a handsome young
man who would love you dearly."
" May the blessed saints refuse to listen to such abomination,"
cried the withered old hag, holding up her hands in horror at the
eupposition. " I must tell Father Juan of your expressions."
" No, pray don t," pleaded the little beauty, the tears starting
to her eyes. " I should have to do penance, and I have already
320 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
performed many. I did not become a nun of my own free will,
and so a few of my repinings should be excused."
" Excused ! " shrieked the old lady ; " I shall not excuse you,
but, for the good of your soul, take care to tell Father Juan of
your conduct. Away with you to your chamber, and sleep with
out supper if you can."
The little beauty was slowly moving away to do the bidding,
when I interposed.
" Pardon, senora," I said, in the worst gibberish that I could
possibly assume. " Pray forgive the sister, and let her keep me
company in the garden. You shall not suffer by your generosity,
on the word of an English lady."
It was only by the most painful contortions that I succeeded in
making myself understood, but I accompanied my words with a
small gold piece which was a most powerful persuader.
" O, if the senora desires Sister Sara for a companion, I am
willing, and shall readily overlook her disrespect for the holy life
of a nun. You may remain, Sara, and if the English lady desires
anything, you may supply her."
The antique virgin once more glanced at her gold in a sly man
ner, and left us alone.
" O, senora," cried the beautiful nun, her large black eyes filled
with tears, " how can I thank you for the interest you have taken
in me? By your influence I have escaped a severe punishment ; "
and with uncontrollable emotion, the little girl threw her arms
around my neck and kissed me.
For a while I forgot my assumed character. That is, I think I
did, for I have a very indistinct recollection of the scene, so con
fused was I. It seems to me that I threw my arms around the
slight form of the nun, and pressed her with more than woman s
strength to my heart. I have also a misty remembrance of kiss
ing the tears from her eyes, and then kissing her lips. But the
recollection of the event is dream-like and indistinct. The poor
girl seemed somewhat surprised at the warmth of my affection ;
but on the whole, I am inclined to think that she did not dislike
the treatment she received.
" There, dear, don t cry any more," I whispered. " As long
as I am in the convent, I will protect you. You shall attend
upon none but me, and I assure you that y^ir duties shall be
light."
MY NEW PROTEGE. 321
" O, senora," the nun said, with a voice as sweet as a bird s,
14 1 am but too grateful for your kindness, and shall never forget
it. I hope you will remain here long, but not as a nun, for they
don t treat us well. I tell you this in confidence, and I hope you
won t tell old Mother Barbara, the mean thing, for if you did, she
would make me eat bread and water. But I am dying to have
you tell me something about the world. I can listen to you for
ever on that topic. We can talk all the afternoon, and if you ask
Barbara, she will let me sleep in the room with you, so that we
cau talk all night also."
Here was a proposition from a girl not more than sixteen years
of age, that was not calculated to strike a modest man in a favor
able light. Poor thing ! had she known that I was a wolf in
lamb s clothing, she would have died before she suffered the words
to pass her lips.
" Tell me," the pretty little nun continued, putting her arms
around my waist, and leaning her head upon my shoulder, as con
fiding as though she had known me for years, " are the men as
bad as Sister Barbara represents. Father Juan says they are,
and that they only dream of wickedness, and when awake,
are continually thinking of sin. I am sure if such is the case,
I am glad I am here ; but I sometimes get a glimpse of men in
the street, and they look as gentle and harmless as doves. I
am sure I know some sisters that look much crosser than men.
Alas ! I never had a chance to speak to one, excepting the priests,
and I don t like them, but you mustn t say so, since I was
seven years of age, and that is a long, long time ago."
" There are bad men in the world," I replied, " but all are not
so ; and I am sure that, if you mingled with the world, no one
would be heartless enough to injure you. You would be loved
most devotedly by some young man, who would only live for your
happiness."
" O, I should like that," the little beauty cried, clapping her
hands with joy at the thought. " I am sure it must be delightful
to know that a brave man is thinking of one all the time ; and for
the matter of that, I shouldn t suppose it would do any harm if
half a dozen men loved one at the same time."
Here was a confession from a child of nature that was most
amusing to hear, and in spite of my attempts at gravity, I could
not prevent laughing, at which the little nun pouted, and then
91
322 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
relented, and threw her arms around my neck, and kissed me most
heartily.
" J ust reverse the case," I said, kissing her in return; for I
thought that she would feel slighted unless I did so. " How would
you like the idea of half a dozen girls loving the man whom you
loved?"
" I would scratch their eyes out," was the true woman s answer ;
and by the sparkle of her own, I had no doubt that she spoke as
she felt. A Spanish maid generally speaks as she feels, and when
she loves she is not backward in manifesting it, even before the
world ; but she is careful to exact full obedience on the part of
her lover, and if he is not faithful, her love can change to hate
with most wonderful rapidity.
I thought, as I wound my arm around the little beauty s waist,
that, if I had never seen Teresa, I should have felt but too happy in
giving Sara my heart, and securing hers in return. But the ex
change was now impossible, for Sara was bound to a convent life
by vows which could not be broken except by the pope alone. I
pitied the poor girl from my heart, and I would have willingly
assisted her to escape ; but the risk was too great, and if I even
entertained the idea, I banished it from my mind.
" I hope you will stay at the convent a long, long time," Sara
said, " for I have but few companions that I care to speak to, and
those know nothing about the world, as you do. Most of them
are old, and think only of saints and heaven, and the time
when they are to leave this world for another. For the past two
days a lady has been stopping here whom I really love and pity,
and she has been like a true friend, but so full of her own griefs
that she can t listen to mine. If I ask her if she is married, she
begins to cry and call upon some one to save her. Father Juan
told me to attend on her, and say that the life of a nun was the
happiest in existence ; but I won t say such a thing, for I dcn t
believe it. But, if I was disposed to talk as he desires me, the
lady would not listen ; for she is proud and haughty, and very
beautiful. I never saw any one half so handsome."
I knew that she was speaking of my wife, and only by a power
ful effort could I command my agitation, and listen in silence to
what was said.
" I think," Sara said, speaking very low, and very confidentially,
f< that there is some mystery connected with the handsome lady
323
which Father Juan don t want the nuns to know. He left orders
that only six of us should be allowed to speak to her, and that
every word she said should be repeated to him on his return
home. I am certain that I m not going to play the spy for any
one, and especially for a man I don t like, and who keeps me
here contrary to my will."
I was about to inquire where Teresa was at the present time,
but the little nun s tongue got the start of me, and I could not in
terrupt her.
" I suppose you wonder why I am here," Sara said. " I can
tell you in a few words. It is not my choice that I took the veil,
I assure you, and if my mother had not died when I was young,
I don t think she would have been willing that I should have
buried myself alive in this old building. I was in hopes that the
earthquake, the other night, would shake it down and set us free,
and I even prayed the saints to that effect ; but the saints didn t
pay any attention to my prayers. I suppose it is because I am
not good enough, for some of the nuns say that they have only to
ask the saints for a favor and it is granted. I don t believe it,
though ; for, if it was so, some of them would ask for more beauty
than they have got wouldn t they ? "
I told her that, having no knowledge of the charms of her sister
nuns, I couldn t safely answer that question. I then reminded
her that she was about to tell some important facts regarding
herself.
" O, yes ; so I will. Well, when I was nine years of age my
mother died, and I can remember of crying myself to sleep every
night, when I thought that I should never ride on the Calsarda
again, as I used to do when she was well. O, how I used to enjoy
it ! The cavaliers, on horseback, would gallop up to us, and tell
jne that I was handsome, and would one day break their hearts ;
and that used to make me laugh. I am sure that the prophe
cies were false, for I shall break my own heart, and never have
a chance to make the men feel unhappy. I only wish I could.
What sport it would be wouldn t it? "
I shook my head, for the honor of my sex was concerned.
" Well, at any rate, I could tease them, as I sometimes tease
Sister Barbara ; and then she scolds me, and threatens to tell Father
Juan ; but she don t always. But I must inform you how I came
here, or you will never know. A short time after my mother
324 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIE*
died, my father married a second wife, and sbe used to hale mo,
although for what reason I can t tell, as I always spoke pleasantly
to her, and filled my hair with flowers when she was married.
She was not a kind woman, by any means, and a servant told me
one day, that my father married her because she was rich. If
such was the case, I vysh she had kept her riches and lived by
herself, for I was never happy after she entered the house."
Here the young girl wiped the tears from her l*u*ge black eyes ,
and seemed to think of her childish days with a good deal of
sorrow.
" At length," Sara continued, " my new moth k r said that I
must go to school, and I was sent to this convent U learn music,
and here I have remained ever since ; then all the nuns told me
what a delightful and pious life they led, and how happy they
were ; and, like a silly girl, I believed them. I took the veil ; but
I cried when they cut off my hair, and I believe that 1 have cried
every day since. I have never seen my father from the time I took
the veil, or his wife, either. I think now that they should have
prevented me from committing so rash an act don t you? You
are silent, my friend," the nun said, leading me from the direc
tion of the arbor, where I so longed to go, but feared to eater.
u Do you not think that I could serve the Virgin and the onints
much better outside of these gloomy walls than within them I "
u It is the blessed hereafter that you are expected to lo-jk for
ward to, my poor child ; and whether you are in a convent, or
mingling with the world, your prayers should be directed to secure
that happiness beyond the grave which all expect to enjoy. The
world is beyond your reach. Think not of it, and you will soon
get accustomed to your lot." .
" But the world is not beyond my reach," the little nun said,
pettishly ; and then sinking her voice, she whispered, " You won t
tell of me will you ? "
" The saints forbid," I answered.
u Well, sometimes I have fancied I would try and escape from
the convent dressed in boy s clothes. I can look from the top
of the convent and see many vessels in the bay, and I have thought
if I could once get clear of the walls, that I might find refuse on
board of a big ship which would take me to some country where
I could earn a livelihood by teaching music. Even that would
be better than staying here, uiid seeing none but cross faces irow
IN THE CONVENT GARDEN. 325
morning till night. O, I should so like to see foreign countries,
and learn their customs ! But I never shall."
The poor girl bowed her head, and once more the tears poured
forth ; but just at that moment we heard voices in advance of us,
and saw half a dozen white-dressed females, sitting on some rough
benches, at work embroidering.
The little nun s tears were dried instantly, and her look of grief
was exchanged for oue of composure.
" Who are they? " I asked.
" O, those are sisters Prudencia, Cartola, Clotilda, Juana, Sa-
bina, and Dorotea. They are talking scandal, I ll warrant you.
They are real ill-natured, and, I dare say, will find some fault iu
your dress ; but you mustn t mind them will you ? "
Of course I said that I shouldn t care in the least, but I m afraid
I rather prided myself on my costume too much for that.
" Suppose that I should pretend not to speak Spanish," I re
marked. " I could then learn all they said about me, an 3 " v e
could laugh about it some time when alone."
" O, that would be delightful ! " cried the little beauty. " I
should so much like to tease them, for they tell me that I m plain,
and that my form is not good, although I m sure it is better than,
theirs. Just feel, and see how fcit I am ; " and to my surprise
and nervous consternation, she placed my arm around her waist to
verify her words.
We were too near the nuns to make a good inspection, and as
I saw that the aged virgins were regarding me with some interest,
found I had got to attend to my deportment or be exposed. I
felt the warm blood rush to my cheeks, and by a careless move-
meat dropped my veil partly, so that they could not see the
whole of my face and detect its masculine outlines, if they were
well posted in mcm-ology.
u What is your name? " whispered Sara, just as she was ready
to introduce me.
u Guillermo," I replied, forgetting, in my confusion, that I had
given my proper cognomen.
" Guillermo ! " repeated the little nun in surprise ; " why, that
is a man s name. You must not mention the name of a man
here.-"
" 0, it s the name of my lover," I whispered, softly. " I was
326 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. ^
thinking of him ; " and while I was talking I was endeavoring to
consider what woman s name would sound the best.
The six thin, bilious-looking nuns stared at me, and began to
whisper to each other.
" Confound them," I thought, " they are already beginning to
pick me to pieces. I know it by the snapping of their eyes."
" Your name," cried Sara, with a poke of her elbow in my
ribs.
My wits had fairly deserted me, I believe, for I could think
only of Teresa and Gracia. I determined to choose the name of
my wife, and run the risk.
" Miss Teresa," I answered, in return for the poke that Sara
gave me ; and I was careful to give the English pronunciation in
preference to the Spanish.
* Sisters," cried my guide, " this is Ris Teresa, who intends to
board at the convent for a few days while her lover is absent."
* Sara ! " cried the eldest and most sour-looking of the nuns.
" Sara ! " cried the most bilious one.
" Sara ! " echoed the others, rolling up their eyes as though sud
denly seized with cramp in the region of the stomach.
" Now, what have I done?" whispered the little nun, her black
eyes full of fun.
" You have spoken of a lover within these sacred walls. Such
a word should not be heard here, where religion reigns supreme."
" Well, I didn t know that it was wrong to speak the word. I
thought it was only wicked to have a lover. But I won t men
tion the word again, if I can help it. At any rate, this English
lady don t know what we are talking about ; so we have spared
her feelings."
I saw that they were agreeably surprised at the information,
for it enabled them to pick me to pieces without mercy.
" I have always heard that English ladies had large feet and
hands, and now I am assured of the fact," the old virgin re
marked, comparing her black and bony paws with my rather small
(for a man) hands.
" But her feet are larger in proportion than her hands," another
said, sticking out one foot ; and, by the saints, it had no stocking
on, and what made the matter worse, she was not over particular
how much of the accompanying portion of the leg she also exposed
PICKED TO PIECES. 327
to view. It was lark, very dark, and didn t look remarkably
clean.
" You had better not say anything about your feet," my little
nun said, " for I am sure that the English lady has as good a foot
as I, or you. Just see if she has not ; " and down went her carrow
foot close by mine for comparison.
After that demonstration the elder nuns turned on my dress,
and left my bodily defects alone.
" What a frightful thing she has got on her head ! " one remarked,
alluding to the bonnet which I wore, and which, I have no doubt,
the lady from whom it was borrowed considered the most perfect
thing of its kind that ever douBled Cape Hope.
u But it s nothing compared to her dress it is high in the
neck, and looks as though intended to suffocate her. Plow can
people be so foolish as to wear such things ? "
" Perhaps, Sister Juaua, she is as destitute of "
The little nun did not have a chance to finish her remarks, for
the antiquated virgins made common cause, and commenced a
war upon her that threatened to last as long as the Trojan siege.
They called her a fool, or very near one, an impudent little
hussy, and concluded by threatening to report her to Father Juan
as soon as he returned ; and while the war of words was raging
loudest, the sudden ringing of a bell was heard, and the nuns
gathered up their work and rushed towards the building as though
not a moment was to be lost. Sara and myself were left alone
once more, and very thankful I was.
" There they go," cried the little nun, looking after her sisters
with some contempt, a and I should not care if I never saw their
faces again."
" But where have they gone? " I asked, somewhat anxious to
discover what could have started them so suddenly.
" O, that bell was intended to call the old nuns to dinner. We
young ones have but two meals a day morning and night ; and
very hungry we get sometimes."
Once more I directed my steps towards the arbor, and had
nearly reached it, when Sara suddenly stopped.
" We won t go there," she said, " for a lady is in the arbor,
and she don t care about talking with any one. She is even cross
to me, sometimes."
I did not heed her words, but walked on, and rather reluctantly
828 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
the little nun accompanied me. We reached the door, and I saw
a lady sitting \vith her back towards us ; but she .did not move
until Sara ran up to her and put her arms around her neck.
Then she turned her head, and to my great joy I saw that I was
standing in the presence of my wife !
CHAPTER XII.
MEETING ONE S WIFE. A LONG CONVERSATION. THE DISCOV
ERY. PLANS FOR ESCAPE, &C., &C., &C.
TERESA merely glanced at me, and as my face was somewhat
shaded by my veil, she could see nothing to startle her. In fact I
thought that she appeared amazed at my intrusion, although she
was very gentle with the little nun, and even returned her kiss,
which I considered an aggravation. I saw that there were traces
of tears in her eyes, and she looked as though she had been weep
ing when we entered the arbor.
" You are still pining for your liberty," Sara saia^, seating her
self by Teresa s side, and putting an arm around her waist.
" And rny husband," the wife replied, but in so low a tone
that I barely heard it ; and I thought that I saw the tears steal
into her eyes again, although I knew that she was struggling to
repress them.
tk Well, don t grieve any more to-day. You will soon, perhaps,
gain your liberty, and then whom shall I have for a companion?
Even now your husband may be laboring for your liberation."
" Alas ! I fear more for him than myself. He is a stranger in
the country, rash and headstrong, and not calculated to cope with
the Jesuits who surround him on every side. I know not even
if he be living at this moment ; " and the tears of my wife fell
fast.
How I longed to comfort her ! yet 1 did not dare to make my
self known in the presence of Sara.
"But surely he can apply to the archbishop for your libera
tion," Sara aaid.
AN INTRODUCTION TO ONE S WIFE. 329
* Even that is denied him, for we were married without his
consent ; and besides my husband is a Protestant."
" May the saints preserve us," cried Sara, in a tone that showed
how much prejudice she entertained against the creed. i; Did
you think of your soul when you gave yourself to a heretic?"
" No ; I thought only of our happiuess, and how much my hus
band loved me. O, if you could only see him you would not won
der at my marriage. He is so kind, and gentle, and virtuous ;
in fact, so different from other men, that I fear even you would
love him."
" Well," replied Sara, after mature consideration, " I don t know
but I might, for I feel very much like loving some one, and per
haps it would not make much difference in heaven if he was a
Protestant or Catholic. But while I have been chatting with you
I have forgotten my new friend, who is to board with us for a
few days. Perhaps she can give you some information regarding
your husband, for she is an English lady, but speaks Spanish as
well as I."
Teresa looked at me eagerly, and I ventured to appoach and
take a seat beside her.
" Do you know the Senor Guillermo ? " she asked.
" I have met with him often in society lately," I replied, dis
guising my voice as much as possible ; but in spite of my pre
cautions I saw her face flush at the sound of it, and her eyes scru
tinized my looks as though trying to trace the features of her
husband.
" Is he well and happy?" she asked.
" He is well, but far from being happy," I replied. lf I have
heard from him the story of his wrongs, and hope that he will
soon devise means to procure your escape or liberation. He has
not been idle since your incarceration, and once or twice, when
he thought that your place of imprisonment was discovered,
has been prevented from seeing you through unforeseen events.
He and his friends are working quietly, but most diligently, so
that you have no cause to feel discouraged as yet."
u You may think I have not cause for grief; but if you
knew to what indignities I have been subjected since the night I
was abducted, how I have been entreated and threatened that
unless I took the veil, and renounced my fortune to the convent
and Father Juan, you would only wonder that my reason re-
330 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
t,
mained, or that I was not dead. But I have prayed for life and
sense, and the saints have granted my supplications."
I could see some of the old pride in her last words, and I longed
to embrace her for her unyielding spirit in spite of priestly perse
cution.
Just at that moment I heard a bell ring, and at its sound Sara
started to her feet.
" My dinner is ready," she cried, " and unless I am prompt I
shall find the table bare. The young sisters, when not thinking
of prayers and penance, are apt to concentrate their ideas on
table joys, and on such occasions strive for more than their
share. You will both excuse me for a short time, for it will not
take me long to eat six spoonfuls of rice arid a banana."
She darted out of the door while the bell was still ringing, and
we heard her footsteps as she ran over the gravelled walk towards
the convent. Teresa and myself were left alone for the first time
since our marriage, and yet our meeting was likely to prove some
what embarrassing ; for how to make myself known and convince
her that I was her husband, taxed my ingenuity. Only for a short
time did we remain silent, yet never was there a more impatient
bridegroom than myself just at that moment.
" I hope that your visit to the convent is not to be of long du
ration," Teresa said, " and that when you leave you will manage
to carry a letter to my husband. Even if I should not have the
pleasure of seeing you again, I trust that you will inform him that
my thoughts are his day and night, and that if we never meet
again on earth, we shall in heaven, where the plots against our
happiness will fail, and where we shall be united, never more to
part."
" I will bear your message faithfully," I replied ; " but perhaps
you may soon see your husband and inform him of your senti
ments without my aid. He may be nearer than you suppose."
I spoke in natural tones, and saw that she was surprised while
she listened.
" Your voice is so much like the one I love that if I shut my
eyes I should think he was by my side."
" Then try the experiment," I said, taking a seat close besido
her.
" No, no," she replied, with a faint smile ; " you are a woman,
A SURPRISE. 331
and my husband is too manly to resemble a female. The only
resemblance is your voice."
" There are many deceptions in the world," I replied. " Sup
pose, after all, I should prove to you that I waS a man."
She started and cast an apprehensive glance at me, as though
she feared that she was being tricked by the priest in whose power
she was.
" The conversation has become mystical," she remarked, with
a haughty wave of her hand, as though she desired its discontinu
ance. She took up a book and opened its pages, and seemed to
have forgotten my presence altogether.
I remained for a few moments undecided what to do. I feared
the return of Sara, or the other nuns, every instant, and it was
necessary for my plans that I should make myself known. The
only thing I dreaded was woman s favorite disease, hysterics,
which is sometimes assumed without the slightest cause, and
once started, never knows when to stop. A sudden cry from
Teresa would be apt to bring half a dozen nuns to the spot, and
if they should find her in my arms and calling me endearing
names, the secret would be discovered, and my death by torture
most certain. While I thus sat motionless, thinking of the best
plan for enlightening Teresa, she glanced from her book to my
face for the purpose of seeing, I suppose, if I was offended at her
words.
u Senora Teresa," I said, laying a hand upon her arm and speak
ing slowly and cautiously, " your friends are working hard for
your liberty, and to secure it I have been sent to your assist
ance."
She did not believe me. I could see that she did not by the
calmness of her eyes. She evidently supposed that Father Juan
was endeavoring to deceive her or intrap her by some snare. For
the purpose of being recognized, I found that I should have to
be more explicit.
" Teresa," I whispered, " do you not know me? Do you not
suspect who I am ? "
I threw my veil aside, but the bonnet and its lining of roses
and artificial fruits concealed too much of my features for her
to recognize me. I knew that her husband s name was on her
lips, but it was dismissed as an impossibility.
332 IJFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
I untied the bonnet and threw it off, and then raised tlie wig
which the priest was so kind as to borrow for me.
" Teresa," I said, u do you not know your husband?"
She knew me then. With a glad cry she threw her arms around
my neck, and her head upon my bosom, and there she wept ; but
the tears now shed were those of joy.
" Be calm, darling," I whispered, " and remember that my life
depends upon your discretion. If you give the least sign that
shall lead the nuns to suppose I m a man, our happiness is de
stroyed."
She was calm enough then, so calm that I considered I was
justified in kissing her red lips a few times, just to see if they had
lost any of their sweetness ; and while I held her dear form in my
arms, I forgot my past of misery, and only thought of present
happiness. We were too excited to speak for some moments ; but
at length my wife removed her arms from my neck, and gazed
long and anxiously at my face.
u Yes," she said at length, " you have mourned for me during
my absence. I can see it in spite of your disguise. Your face is
pale and thin. You have missed me have you not?" and down
upon my bosom went her head again, and more tears fell from
those dear eyes, which were usually so bright and clear.
" Day and night I have sighed for you," I replied, " and not
only sighed, but have worked for your deliverance. On the night
that I pursued your abductors in the banco, I was almost sure
I should recover you, yet came near finding a watery grave. But
the saints were merciful, and spared me for this meeting."
I thought I would not speak of visiting a ship that night, and
drinking half a dozen glasses of punch with old Captain Miller.
Women are so confounded particular sometimes, when their affec
tions are concerned? If I had hinted at such a thing, she would
have pouted for ten minutes, just as likely as not.
* O, Guillermo," she murmured, putting up her mouth to be
kissed with the innocent frankness of a child, " no sooner did I
see you strike the water than I attempted to throw myself into
the river, but was prevented by Father Juan and his steward.
When you sank I fainted, and did not regain consciousness for a
long time. When I revived I found myself in this convent, and
an old nun standing over ine chafing my temples. The saints
TERESA S STORY. 333
forgive me, but I wished that I was dead, and beyond the reach
of priests."
" But you no longer have such thoughts you desire to live
and enjoy many years of uninterrupted happiness with your hus
band," I whispered.
" Yes, Guillermo, without you life would indeed be a burden.
But tell rue, how came you here in this disguise ? "
" Bscause I could not come in my proper character. Gentle
men are generally excluded from convents, I believe."
" But did you think of the danger? " she asked.
" Of course I did, and resolved to brave it all for the purpose
of once more seeiu g you, and attempting to set you free."
" And can you do so? " she demanded, eagerly.
" I shall try," I replied. " But all will depend upon your calm
ness and obedience to my wishes."
" Am I not calm? And as for obedience, you have but to com
mand, and love and duty alone will prompt me to obey you. As
my husband, you have a right to expect it. As a wife, I shall
yield it."
Bless her little heart ! how I looked at her with admiration and
astonishment, and wondered for a brief moment where some of
her haughty spirit was concealed, with which she used to pester
me during our courting days ! She was a woman now a trust
ing, loving woman ; and I sincerely hoped she would always let
me govern her as willingly as she seemed disposed to allow me
while reclining in my arms at the Convent of San Sebastian.
But I had my doubts, although I did not fail to reward her con
fession with a few tokens of affection quite common during the
early stages of our courtship.
" Tell me, Guillermo/ my wife said, " when shall you make
the attempt for my removal from this dismal abode? If I should
be compelled to remain here a month, and listen to the continued
whining of the priest s creatures respecting the beauties of a nun s
life, I should become insane. Do not let me remain here any
longer than you can possibly help."
" The attempt, Teresa, is to be made this night ; and in less than
ten hours I hope to see you free. But there are difficulties in the
Way, and on you much will depend."
44 So soon? " she cried. " O, how happy I feel at even tho in
334 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
formation ! Impose the severest discipline upon ine, and you shall
see how readily I will bear it for your sake."
Just then I heard steps upon the walk. I hastily replaced my
bonnet, and Teresa and myself took seats at some distance from
each other.
" Remember, you know me only as an English lady," I whis
pered to my wife.
She smiled, and just at that moment Sara, the little nun, entered
the arbor.
" I ate my dinner in a hurry, for I thought you would feel
lonely, and want company. To be sure, there was but little to
eat, for, in spite of my exertions to be first, I was last, and the
first had devoured most of the rice. I do wish they would
give us food in the same proportion that they give us prayers and
religious exercises. We should feel more like thanking the saints
for their favors."
The girl little suspected that her presence was not required just
at that moment.
" I spoke to Sister Barbara," Sara continued, turning to me,
" and she says that I can sleep in your room, if you are willing."
I saw a frown gather upon my wife s brow, and I feared that
her jealous nature would break out ; but to my intense satisfaction
she remained quiet. She looked as though an explanation would
be satisfactory, however, and I hastened to give one.
* 4 When you made the proposal to occupy part of my room," I
said, addressing Sara, " I did not return an answer, for fear you
would take offence. A few moments since, I forgot your proposi
tion, and agreed to room with this lady," pointing to Teresa.
" If she is willing to relinquish my society for the night, I am
sure I shall be happy to oblige you."
" Would you? " muttered my wife, a portion of the cloud disap
pearing from her brow.
" Won t you let me have her to-night? You can have her to
morrow night," Sara pleaded.
" No, indeed, I shall do no such thing ; and I am astonished at
your making such a request," was Teresa s decided answer.
I felt very well satisfied to have these two beautiful creatures
quarrelling for the honor of my company, but I had much rather
it would have been outside of the convent walls.
" It seems to me that I am crossed at every step. If I make
A LITTLE JEALOUS. 335
friends, they are taken away from me by some one who has not
half as good a claim as I have. It is too bad ! " and once more
the tears fell from Sara s black eyes ; but this time my wife
hastened to console her, and after a while she succeeded ; but I
noticed she did not yield the contested point, or even promise that
I should enjoy the little nun s company during my stay in the
convent.
While the two were talking, a third bell was rung, and Sara
intimated that the boarders table was ready, and proposed to show
us to it, for the sake of our society ; and although my wife (who,
I think, was a little jealous of the nun) protested that she knew
the way, and would spare her the trouble, it made no difference ;
Sara would not take the hint and leave us alone for even a mo*
ment.
The table for the private boarders at the convent was some
what better supplied than the one for the nuns, if Sara was to be
believed. We found rice and curry, and chicken boiled, and
then stuffed with various kinds of seasoning, among which red
pepper predominated. There were two kinds of fruit also
oranges and bananas ; and perhaps in honor of my arrival, Sister
Barbara, who acted in the capacity of housekeeper, superior, and
general scolder, placed a bottle of weak wine upon the table, which
caused Sara to open her eyes to the widest extent, and declare
that never in her whole experience had she seen such great
liberality, and never expected to again. Poor child ! she little
knew what magic there was in gold outside as well as inside of a
convent.
My appetite, as well as my wife s, was poor. I was too deeply
impressed with the important part I had to play that night to care
for food, and Teresa was too much excited at our unexpected
meeting to be able to eat even an orange. I saw that our friend
Sara was looking at the chicken with longing eyes, and without
waiting for advice or consent from Barbara, I made her sit down
and attack it. There was a disposition to scowl, but when Barbara
saw that the nun was under my protection, she made no public
demonstration of her rage. What was said in private I never
knew.
I did manage to induce my wife to drink a glass of wine, while
I helped myself to several ; but its quality was so bad that I didn t
blame her for not wishing for more. We three were the only
336 LTFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
v
persons at the table, but I saw that a door leading to the chapel
was opened frequently, and several heads were thrust in for the
purpose of scrutinizing us, and perhaps noticing how an English
lady took her food. I sat with my bonnet on, however, so but
few of them could see my face and false hair ; for I feared that
every moment some of the prying sisters would steal behind me,
and finger my curls for the purpose of seeing if nature or art sup
plied them so profusely.
It was dark by the time we had finished our supper, or dinner,
as they called it, and then Sister Barbara politely informed me
that I could retire to my room, or hear evening vespers in the
chapel. I wanted to be alone with my wife, if possible ; so I de-
dined the invitation to prayers, and Teresa did the same, much
to my joy, for I feared that her coyness, which we so much ad
mire in a bride, would impede the preparations I had to make for
our escape. There were bars of iron to be sawed off and removed,
and much other work that I desired to perform before the night
was far advanced.
Sara looked rather dispirited when she saw that we were to
leave her ; but her duties required her presence in the chapel, and
with a brief remark that she would room with me the next night,
she left us, and Teresa and myself were soon in the apartment that
was allotted us, one that overlooked the street.
We were not allowed a lamp, and perhaps it was just as well
that we were not, although I am sure the blushes upon my wife s
face were well worth seeing, when she found that I fastened the
door to prevent interruption from the sisters ; but if the reader
expects that I am about to disclose a love scene, he or she is mis
taken. I had too much work to perform, aud there was too much
at stake to allow such agreeable recreation ; but I promised to
make amends, if ever we escaped from the convent, and to insure
that result, I commenced an inspection of the premises.
I found that there was but one window in the room, and that
was guarded by four iron bars, each the size of a man s thumb.
I commenced a careful examination, and found that the ends of
the bars were fixed firmly in the wood-work, and held in their
places by lead. The iroas were too close together to admit of
one s looking into the street ; so I could not tell whether my friends
were beneath me, or had not yet reached the rendezvous agreed
upon. I looked at my watch and found that it was just nine
PREPARATIONS FOR ESCAPE. 337
o clock ; and they did not promise to be near me until twelve. I
had three hours for using my saw or jimmy, and I did not
doubt but I could make some impression by that time, if no one
interrupted me.
As for Teresa, she was all excitement, and insisted upon lend
ing me all the aid in her power ; but I feared she would fatigue
herself; so I desired that she should sit perfectly still, and only help
me with her prayers. She obeyed me ; but I could see, even in
tho dark, her large black eyes turned towards me, and watching
every motion that I made with intense interest.
At length I found that I should have to use my saw for the
purpose of removing the iron bars, for they were too firmly im
bedded in the wood to be started by the jimmy ; but the slight
grating noise which the saw made, I feared, would alarm those in
the other chambers, for the nuns had returned from the chapel,
and we could hear Barbara lock them in their room, as though
they were so many prisoners, and destined to escape unless extra
precautions were used to prevent them. I suspended labor, and
heard the usual amount of giggling, whispering, and praying,
which the nuns indulged in after they were left for the night ; and
I could also hear my ancient friend Barbara apply her ear to the
crack of my door, for the purpose of discovering if we were plot
ting mischief, or had gone to sleep like Christians. She seemed
satisfied, after a while, that the latter supposition was correct, for
she moved away, and I hoped went to bed, if ever such a faded
specimen of humanity went to bed for the purpose of sleeping, of
which I had grave doubts, for she seemed to me destined, like
the Wandering Jew, to travel around, and never know rest or
happiness.
At length all sounds, excepting the low tones of some nun who
was repeatiug a number of prayers as a penance, ceased, and I re
commenced my work ; but, to my horror, found that the noise
was too distinct not to attract attention, and for a few minutes I
was in despair. A little cocoa-nut oil would have obviated the
difficulty, and enabled the saw to run without the least jar ; but
unfortunately I had none with me, and lights were not allowed in
the rooms.
" Why do you pause ? " my wife asked, laying her hand on my
shoulder, and bringing her fair face in dangerous proximity to
my lips.
22
838 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
I stated my reasons, and my fears of awakening the nuns by
endeavoring to cut the iron.
" Our door is not locked outside," she said, " and in the corridor
is a lamp. I will dip my handkerchief in the oil, and return to
you without detection."
I called her an angel, and allowed her to undertake the errand.
The door was opened slowly, and by the dim light no one was
seen listening or posted at the head of the stairs. She glided
towards the light like a spirit of the other world, but her mission
was not exactly an angelic one. She dipped one end of her
handkerchief in the oil, and, without the least noise or con
fusion, returned to me in triumph. How I praised her for her
quietness !
" Now, Guillermo," she said, " while you are at work I will
sing, and perhaps my voice will drown all the noise you make."
She raised her sweet voice, and sang in low, mournful tones a
song that I was very fond of during our courtship.
" Nay," she cried, supending her song, " you stop to listen to
me, instead of performing your task. Work now, and listen to
me hereafter."
" That song carries me back to the time when our acquaintance
first began. You remember that you sang it on the night of the
earthquake, soon after my arrival in Manila."
" On the night you saved my life, and more than once perilled
your own in the attempt. Yes, I remember, O my husband ! "
She came to me and put her arm around my neck, and kissed
me, and I was too happy to hold her to my heart, to think of re
newing my work.
" Even then I loved you, but I knew it not," she whispered.
" I longed for your society, and was always melancholy when you
were from my side, but I did not know the nature of my love.
Now that you are all mine, can I trust you will be always faith
ful to me, and never tire of your Manila wife ? "
" Faithful always," I replied, fervently ; and I really meant
what I said. Men promise anything during courtship, or the first
stages of the honeymoon.
" They told me cruel stories respecting your habits," my wife
continued, in a dreamy sort of manner, as though we were
standing in one of our parlors, and free from danger. " They
WORKING FOR LIBERTY. 339
said that you were unfaithful, and cared more for pleasure than
for me. I did not believe them did I ? "
I told her that I rather thought she did not, to judge from ap
pearances. I also informed her, in a calm tone, that all good men
were liable to be slandered in the same way, but that I hoped my
future life, if allowed to live long enough, would completely refute
all the charges that were ever brought against me. At which in
formation she seemed satisfied, and resumed her song with con
siderable spirit.
I worked with renewed exertions to make up for lost time, and
in a few minutes had the satisfaction of severing one iron bar,
and by the aid of the jimmy, bending it in such a manner that it
would not interfere with our egress. One more bar was to be
cut before an opening large enough to squeeze through was af
forded, and I was just about to apply my saw when I heard a noise
in the corridor.
" May the saints defend me ! " cried my wife, flying to my side.
" That is Father Juan s voice."
It was the most unwelcome announcement that could have
been made, and, man as I was, I felt my heart sink with dread at
the exposure which I anticipated. I put my hand m my pocket
and felt for my revolver, determined to sell my life at a dear price,
if the worse came to the worst.
" We are lost," my wife cried ; and around my neck went her
arms, as though they were anchors, and she had but to cast them
loose to find harbor and shelter.
" Courage, darling," I whispered. " If the priest has returned,
he may leave us unmolested until morning, and by that time we
shall be in a place of safety."
I heard the shrill voice of Barbara raised, as though in angry
reproach at some infringement of her rights, and then the stern tones
of the priest met my ear. We listened attentively, and could dis
tinguish every word that was spoken, for they had stopped opposite
our door.
" I tell you that you are an old fool ! " cried the priest, sharply.
" May the saints forgive me, but what can you expect? They
wanted to sleep together, and I consented. It can do no harm
that I know of, and I think you might be better, employed than
pulling me out of bed, at this hour of the night, for the purpose of
840 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
hearing your complaints. Wait until morning, and then raise the
devil if you will."
" You should have known better. But this is always the way.
I can t leave the convent for twenty-four hours but something goea
wrong. Just as my plans are well laid, somebody thwarts them.
The convent and its inmates would go to ruin very speedily, if I
was not here to look after you."
" We shall all go to the devil, at any rate, if you keep on as
you have done for the past fortnight," I heard Barbara say, in a
more subdued tone. " The Donna Teresa will never consent to
take the veil, and all your urging is lost. Better make terms with
her while you can, and let her go. A lady with her wealth must
have many powerful friends, and they won t fail to make search
for her."
" Let them search ! " the priest cried, fiercely ; " they cannot
enter this convent without my consent, and I will allow my hands
to wither before I yield. I have made a bold stroke for fortune,
and I will succeed or fall. I hold the lady a prisoner, and as long
as she is in my power I can make terms."
" May the saints protect me," murmured my wife, clinging
more close to me.
" Well, let them alone for to-night, and to-morrow I will see
that they are separated," Barbara said. " They are asleep now,
and it will be useless to disturb them. Besides, you may alarm
the English lady, and I can assure you that her friendship is worth
having. She has gold in abundance, and is free with it. Let
everything appear fair to her, and who knows but she can be
converted to the true faith, and the convent receive a donation?"
u Poh ! " interrupted the priest ; " the English are pig-headed,
and care nothing for our religion. I should sooner think of con
verting a Mohammedan than one of them. If they have gold, they
give only as they take a freak. Liberal to-day, and mean to
morrow. I hate the English."
" But this lady seems different," suggested Barbara.
" Then I will see her, and judge for myself. If she is pretty,
who knows but she would prefer a change of quarters for the
night."
" You are an pld fool ! " yelled Barbara ; " and if you offer to
open that door, I will scratch your eyes out. Do you think that
HARD AT WOKK.
all women are bound to love your shaven head and sallow face ?
Go to your bed, and dream of me."
" May the saints forbid ! " the priest exclaimed, in so hearty a
manner that I had no doubt of his sincerity. " Your charms are
rather stale, Barbara. You are not as young as you were fifteen
years ago."
" The saints be thanked, for now I am allowed some peace,"
was the response ; and I rather think the priest was hit by that
random shot, for he remained silent for a few moments, as though
meditating what he should do next ; and then, to my joy, I heard
them moving off as though they had concluded to leave us un
molested for the night, at least.
Fearful of their returning, I resumed my work, and sawed away
with patient industry, until the iron was severed and bent from
its upright position. I put my head through the opening, and
looked into the street. The night was too dark to discern if any
one was lurking beneath the shadow of the convent wall, and I
did not dare to make a signal for fear of attracting, the attention of
some spy, who would instantly have given the alarm to Father
Juan. I looked at my watch, and by the aid of a match found
that it was but eleven o clock, while the time agreed upon for the
meeting was twelve. A whole hour was to elapse before I could
call myself free, and that hour, I calculated, was to be the most
tedious of my stay in the convent. A dozen times in as many
minutes I looked from the window, and at last, to my great de
light, heard people moving on the sidewalk, and stop directly
beneath me. I waited impatiently for some signal that should
prove to me they were friends, and at length, to my joy, it was
manifested. The tune of " Hail, Columbia," was whistled in so
low a key, that even the watch dogs in the convent yard did not
take the alarm, and make night hideous with their bowlings.
Twice that familiar tune was sounded, and then all was quiet ex
cepting the loud calls of the soldiers on the city walls, as they an
nounced that " all was well " as far as heard from.
In an instant I had my cord out. and a weight attached for the
purpose of enabling those in the street to find it. I threw it out
with nervous haste, and the next instant knew it had reached
ground by an exclamation that was accompanied by an oath.
The weight had struck the priest on his head, and nearly knocked
him down.
342 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
(,
" For Heaven s sake, keep quiet ! " I heard Allen whisper.
" It s all very well to say keep quiet ; but curse it, man, here s
a half pound weight struck my head, and raised a swelling as big
as my hand. If I supposed that it was done on purpose " and
Benventuro muttered something that I could not hear.
* But you know it was an accident, and that the swelling will
all be erased by good wine. Here, hand me the stout cord, and
stop your noise," Allen said.
The promise of the wine must have restored the priest to good
humor, for he made no more remarks, and in a few moments
time I heard a whisper,
" Pull up ; " and a twitch of the cord showed me that the larger
rope was fastened to my lighter one. I hauled the line in slowly,
for fear the weight of the large one would break it, and after a
few moments suspense had the satisfaction of grasping the end
of a piece of " ratling stuff," which was capable of sustaining two
or three hundred pounds.
u Have you got it? " Allen whispered, so softly that it did not
seem possible for any one to hear him excepting myself.
" I have," was the response.
" Then pull up the ladder."
I found that was no trifling feat, for the ladder was consider
able heavy, and the " ratling stuff" cut my hands, unused to hard
labor as they were. But by working little at a time I succeeded
in getting one end to the window, and securing it firmly to the
remaining iron posts.
" Are you all right? " the party below asked.
" Yes."
" Then come on without delay."
It was all very well for them to say come on, but I had a wife
in the room who weighed, as near as I could guess, one hundred
and thirty pounds ; and it was necessary to get her to consent to
attempt the novel performance of walking down that rope, when
she knew three men were at the end of it, waiting for her.
"Women are sometimes very sensitive, and would die rather than
abate one particle of their modesty.
u Come, darling," I whispered, putting my arm around her
waist, and leading her to the window ; " the time has now arrived
for our escape. With courage and firmness we can be free in a
few minutes."
A FEW ARGUMENTS. 343
" But how am I to go ? " she asked. " I can t fly, and to jump
Would cost me my neck, which, you say, is very dear."
" Angel," I murmured, " I am glad you are so earthly that
the air would refuse to sustain you, and I don t intend that your
graceful neck shall be in the least damaged, if I can prevent it.
The distance to the pavement is only thirty feet, and those thirty
feet must be overcome by the aid of this rope-ladder, which you
see is firmly secured to iron bars. A terrible rumpus the inmates
of the convent will make, when they see it hanging here in the
morning. A little nerve and good resolution, and you will soon
be safe."
My bride put her pretty head from the window and looked down,
and in the darkness she could just discern the outlines of my friends.
She drew back with a shudder.
" I can t do it," she whispered.
"Why not, love?"
" Those men. My modesty "
" Must be laid aside for once. For my sake make the attempt
without a moment s delay."
u For your sake I would do many things," she answered. " But
don t ask me to go down before those men."
" But I will ask them to move off a few yards, while you are
descending," I said.
" And if you will request them to keep their eyes upon the
sidewalk, I should feel much more comfortable," she urged.
" Angel of modesty," I replied, " your wishes shall be granted ; "
so I spoke to my friends, and made known her wishes, and, I
may as well add, my wish also. They were kind enough to com
ply without stopping to argue the question ; and when I had in
formed Teresa of the fact, a new difficulty arose. She manifested
many fears of falling, and a few minutes were spent in assuring
her that, if she would but grasp the rope with a firm hand, and
step cautiously, she would reach the sidewalk in safety. And to
insure that important fact, I tied the " ratling stuff" under her
arms, so, in case she did let go with her hands, I could save her
from falling by the small rope.
I don t think that crinoline was understood by the Spanish
ladies in the days of which I write. In fact, as far as my ob
servation went, the ladies were rather proud to show their well-
rounded forms with as little artificial work as possible, per-
344 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
fectly content that old ladles should confine themselves to tb
" stuffing " process if desirable. Such being the case, the reader
will readily understand that I had but little trouble to get my wife
through the bars, and to place her hands firmly upon the ropes,
while her feet also caught the ladder for a resting-place. When
she was once in this position, my next trouble was to get her to
move, and all of my persuasion had to be brought into use. She
trembled so violently that I feared she would faint every moment ;
but I knew she could not fall, owing to the rope which I had tied
around her waist. I expected every moment that she would utter
a violent shriek, and not only alarm the inmates of the convent,
but the sentinel, who was posted at the corner of the street a few
blocks off.
" O, the saints protect me," she cried, * for I shall fall and bo
killed."
" There is not the least danger," I urged. * ; Step slow, and
you will soon reach the sidewalk."
But like many other ladies placed in the same position, she
bad her private opinion on that point ; and the more I coaxed, the
worse she cried, and the more timid did she become. I saw that
my friends were getting impatient, for there was too much at stake
to waste precious moments when the field was clear ; so at length
I resolved to try a bold plan.
" Hark ! " I said ; " I think I hear Father Juan s voice in the
corridor. If he discovers us we are lost."
The announcement was magical in its effect. His name was
sufficient to excite terror in her mind, for her imprisonment had
not been of the most agreeable description. Without uttering
another word, she released her hold of the window sill, and began
to descend much more rapidly than I dared to anticipate. I
watched her with anxiety until I saw her reach the sidewalk,
where she was received in the arms of my friends. Then her
courage and strength deserted her, and she was obliged to be sup
ported to prevent falling.
The next instant I had reached the sidewalk, and had my wife
clasped in my arms.
" What a pleasant picture to contemplate ! " muttered the priest.
** It looks like two women embracing each other."
I had but time to shake hands with my friends, and exchange
THE ESCAPE. 345
a few words of congratulation with them, when the priest inter
fered.
" This is no time to talk," he said, in hoarse whisper, " for we
are liable to be picked up at any moment by a guard of patrol
men. That cursed ladder would hang every member of the party-
higher than the gates of the castle, for it is no joke to get impli
cated in entering a convent, unless you go with a bottle in your
hand. We must get away from this vicinity as fast as possible."
He started across the street, and we followed close at his heels.
My wife had recovered sufficiently, under my treatment, to be able
to walk with some slight support, such as an arm around her
waist. She was so overjoyed at her escape that she hardly real
ized she was outside of the convent s walls, and seemed to fear
that every moment some one would command her to return.
The priest, who was familiar with that section of the city, passed
through an alley-way, and then crossed the main street, keeping
a careful lookout for sentinels, and escaping observation as much
as possible.
" Where are you leading us?" I ventured to inquire ; for I saw
that my wife was nearly exhausted with her trouble and fatigue,
and was greatly in need of rest.
" To a place of safety," was the brief answer ; and no other
reply could I extort from the priest.
Suddenly Benventuro stopped in front of a small house on St.
Joseph s Street, and nearly half a mile from the city gates. Be
fore I had time to ask a question, the priest tapped lightly with
his hand, and a voice from the court-yard asked,
"Who s there?"
" Those whom the saints have befriended," was the response.
The door was instantly opened, and without a word of explana
tion we entered a dark court-yard. No sooner were we in the
yard than the door was quickly shut and barred.
" Where is your light, Antonio?" the priest asked.
" Here, senor, under the barrel," was that worthy s answer ;
and lifting up a barrel that stood near the gate, a lamp was ex
posed which revealed "the dark, melancholy face of Antonio. " The
senor has escaped, I see," was the only greeting he bestowed upon
me ; or he appeared to take it as a matter of course that I must
escape with such a splendid lot of burglar s tools in my pocket.
346 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" Yes," I replied ; " thanks to your plans and the large quantity
of wine yon poured down the convent steward s throat."
" Ah, senor, 1 left him so drunk that he could not tell a saint
from a sailor, and he will have such a glorious headache for two
days to come, that curses, not prayers, will escape his lips. But
I pray you walk up stairs, where you will find refreshments and
beds for the night."
" I supposed that we were to leave the city to-night," I said,
as we followed the priest up the stairs.
" It would not have been judicious," replied Benventuro,
" for the officer of the guard has a foolish habit of asking ques
tions, which we could not have answered to his satisfaction ; and as
for applying for a pass for such a party as this, I did not dare to.
Here we can be comfortable for the night, and in the morning go
where we please. The house belongs to a friend of mine, who,
with his family, is absent from the city, and has kindly placed
everything at my disposal. Antonio, did you bring over the
wine?"
" Yes, senor, and it is already cooling."
"And did you think to bring me my proper clothes?" I de
manded, thinking more of them than the wiue.
" The senor will find them in his chamber, which has been ex
pressly prepared for himself and wife."
The rascal I could have hugged him for his consideration.
Things began to look brighter. I began to think that being mar
ried was not so very bad, after all.
The house was furnished, like the general run of Spanish gentle
men s houses, with plain but convenient furniture, and a few pic
tures of saints hanging on the walls. The dining-room contained
a table, covered with dishes and glasses, and I was not long in
detecting that the priest had made preparations for one of his
pleasant suppers, as he termed them. But my appetite was poor,
and my wife was too embarrassed to care to remain with my
friends. She was not, however, half as anxious to get away from
them as I ; and while the priest was detained for a moment by
Allen and Tom, who pretended that they desired his opinion on
some win ish point, my wife and myself slipped from the room,
and sought the chamber that had been appropriated for our use.
1 had barely locked the door before the priest discovered the rz/se,
and made most pathetic appeals to induce me to return ; but wine
A ROW AT THE CONVENT. 347
and the pleasures of the table were no temptation, when placed in
contrast with the society of my bride ; and when she put her arms
around my neck, and whispered, " You won t go will you?"
I don t think I should have left her for a moment, if I had not
dined for a week.
The night passed quietly, but almost before I could realize
that it was daylight, I heard Allen pounding at the door of my
room.
" It is past eight o clock," he said, " and time for us to be mov
ing up the river. We are awaiting your motions."
I did not keep them waiting long, for, dressing hastily in my
proper habiliments* I joined my three friends in the dining-room.
" There is the devil to pay at the convent," Allen said, when I
made my appearance. u Antonio has been there, and gathered
the whole particulars from his friend, the steward. Father Juan
is wild with rage. He has kicked Sister Barbara, and put all his
nuns on bread and water, thinking they were concerned in the
conspiracy. A crowd of people is around the convent, asking
what has happened, and who has run off with a nun. That rope
ladder first started them, as I supposed it would. It is a pity we
could not have carried it away with us."
" Well, what do you propose we shall do? " I inquired.
" That is what we wanted to ask you about. Shall we remain
here in concealment, as though we rather shunned investigation,
or shall we start for home, and let the priest see that we are no
longer fearful of his arts ? "
" I will do what you think is for the best," I replied.
" Then I counsel you to start for the factory," Allen replied,
" and remain with us for a few days. By that time matters can
be arranged with the archbishop, and your marriage published in
an official form. I will assume all the risk of an attempt to mo
lest you at the factory. Even Father Juan would not be so im
prudent."
I looked towards the priest for his opinion, but that worthy man
was busy with the bones of a chicken, and could only grunt his
approval or disapproval, I could not tell which. As for Tom, he
was at his old tricks, trying to make the acquaintance of a pair
of black eyes living in the opposite house.
" Then I had better request my wife to dress for the journey/
I said.
348 LIFE IX THE EAST INDIES. ^
" Certainly, and without much delay, for I should like to lea re
the city before there is more excitement."
I communicated the intelligence to Teresa, and in a remark
ably short time for a woman, she was ready for her departure.
We gave Antonio instructions to follow us at a short distance
after we left the house, and to be ready to lend us all the assist
ance that he could command, in case we should encounter Father
Juan ; for I had some misgivings that we should meet that astute
gentleman before we could reach a place of safety. I did not con
fide my suspicipus to Teresa, but suffered her to suppose that all
danger was passed. I could not disturb her quiet happiness, for
she looked so contented while leaning on my arm, that I felt as
though capable of any sacrifice on her account.
But little notice was taken of us as we walked through the
streets, and it was not until we supposed all danger was passed,
and in a few minutes should be beyond the city gates, that, in
turning a corner, who should we run against but our worst enemy,
the holy Father Juan, looking as though his blood had turned to
gall, and all his better feelings had been traded away for a large
stock of malice, with which he seemed pretty well loaded !
He stopped when he saw us, and his eyes lighted up with such
a ferocious gleam that my wife clung to me ID terror, and would
have fallen, had I not supported he/.
I merely bowed, and attempted to pass the priest, but he placed
himself directly before me ; so I could not move without stepping
off the sidewalk.
" Are you aware that vf"i are in a Catholic country, sir?" he
asked.
" I am acquainted with the fact, and if I was not, I see that be
fore me which would convince, me of it," I replied.
"Speak to him kindly," whispered my wife, who trembled so
violently that I feared she would faint every moment.
" And do you know the penalty of enticing from a convent those
under the protection of the holy church ? " the priest asked, em
boldened by the shrinking timidity of my wife.
" I neither know nor care," I replied.
" And were yor aware that death is the penalty for entering
a convent in disguise : " was the next question ; and a griu of
triumph was on the man s face as he asked it.
I made no answer, but sought to pass on.
IN GREAT DANGER. 349
" You lo not leave me thus," he said. t; You and your abet
tors shall now learn what it is to interfere with the affairs of
the church. All of you shall go to prison, and be tried by an
ecclesiastical council."
" What cursed nonsense ! " muttered Benventuro. " Listen to
reason for a moment can t you ? "
But Father Juan was not inclined to do any such thing. His
rage was too excessive to admit of argument, and, as I expected,
he speedily collected a crowd of ignorant Mestizos, who were ready
to take advantage of every tumult to rob and stab if necessary.
u My children," cried the padre, " the sanctity of my convent
has been violated by a cursed heretic, who, under the garb of a
woman, has stolen away a daughter of the church. Death to the
heretic, my children, death ! "
The cry was instantly taken up by the crowd of fanatics, and
they shouted, " Death to the heretic ! " with much more fervor
than I liked.
The rabble moved towards us in a threatening manner. I put
my hand to my revolver, determined to sell my life dearly ; but
a word of caution from Benventuro restrained me.
" Manifest no alarm," he whispered, " and, above all things,
offer no resistance at present. Crowds are fickle, and easily swayed
for good or evil. I will speak to them. My children," cried Ben-
veuturo, raising his voice, which was like the bellowing of a bull,
" you all know me, and know that I am a priest."
" Yes, we know you," was the response.
" Well, I declare to you that the Padre Juan is mistaken, and
that no wrong has been committed. This lady is my friend s wife,
and is a Catholic as well as himself. I know it. Father Juan is
mistaken ."
" It is false ! " roared Padre Juan. " It is only a trick to es
cape punishment. Death to the heretic death ! "
And a few in the crowd re-echoed the cry with startling earnest
ness, but a majority seemed astonished at the complicated aspect
of affairs, and were mute.
" My children," cried Benventuro, u you will feel satisfied if
our beloved father, the archbishop, investigates the matter?"
44 Yes, yes ! " yelled the crowd.
" Then let us repair to his palace, and ask his advice."
850 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
" To the archbishop, to the archbishop ! " the crowd, which
had now increased to some five hundred people, shouted. ^
" You need not think to escape by such means," Father Juan
said, addressing the priest Benventuro. " Before him you dare
not tell an untruth. I shall triumph, and you \vill be disgraced."
" We shall see," was all the remark Benventuro made.
We started for the palace, the crowd leading the way, and re
ceiving fresh accessions to its ranks every moment. The distance
was but short, so I cheered and strengthened Teresa with con
soling words while we were walking, although I feared every mo
ment that she would display her womanly feelings by fainting with
terror.
While we were thus escorted through the streets, by as desper
ate a band of cutthroats as ever lived by robbing, I noticed that
Antonio, the priest s steward, kept close by my side, and that he
seemed to have some connection with many of the most ferocious-
looking Mestizos that composed the rabble.
" Fear nothing, senor," he whispered to me. " I have a hun
dred friends in the crowd, and they will all obey me. If violence
is attempted, we will let these dogs feel our knives. If the cow
ards dare to attack you, they shall pay dearly for it."
And I had no doubt the fellow meant what he said, for he looked
as though the taste of blood would be acceptable.
In five minutes time we were opposite the palace of the arch
bishop, when the crowd suddenly ceased its murmurings, and
maintained an orderly deportment that was most astonishing. It
showed the power of the church over the ignorant fanatics, and
proved that the people could be led to goad or evil, if the priests
were so disposed.
The Mestizos opened to the right and left, and allowed us to
pass in without a word of insult ; but after we had once entered
the door, they closed up all avenues of escape, and, with uncovered
heads, awaited the decision of the archbishop.
" How is this to terminate ? " I asked Allen, in a whisper.
He shook his head with a puzzled look.
44 It s a struggle between the priests, and the smartest will win,"
he answered.
We were ushered into a large reception-room, and informed
that his highness would see us in a few minutes ; and he kept his
word, for presently a stout, healthy-looking man, about fifty years
THE ARCHBISHOP. 351
of age, entered the room and took a seat that somewhat resembled
a chair of state. His only attendant was a servant, dressed in
linen of the whitest hue. The great man bowed gracefully to all
in the room, and seemed somewhat interested in the appearance
of Teresa.
* Let the lady be seated," he said, seeing from etiquette that
she remained standing when it was only by an effort she was en
abled to do so.
" There is a large crowd in front of the palace, and the people
appear to be in an unusual state of excitement. What is the
meaning of it?" demanded the bishop, after a moment s silence.
u It means, your highness," Father Juan said, every appear
ance of anger having vanished from his shrewd-looking face, u that
the sanctity of my convent has been violated by a heretic, and that
I demand the extreme punishment of law npon^his head."
" If what you say is true, you shall have the justice you ask
for ; but we must have proof," was the bishop s reply.
u Your highness shall have proof. This young man, whom I
have brought before you, has dared to enter my convent in the
garb of a woman, and entice away the lady Teresa, who was
under my charge. Last night they made their escape, and were
leaving the city this forenoon, when I came upon them unex
pectedly."
" Your charges look grave, Father Juan ; but what says the
young man to them?" demanded the bishop, calmly, gently agitat
ing a fan, and regarding Teresa and myself with more attention
than I thought we deserved.
" Will your highness permit me to intercede for them ? " Ben-
venturo demanded, speaking for the first time.
" If you know any extenuating circumstances, or can give me
any facts regarding the matter, I should be pleased to hear them.
Take care, Benventuro, that you confine yourself to what you per
sonally know."
" I shall do so, your highness," the priest replied ; " and I feel
the more confidence in this case, from the fact that I married
them a month since."
A frown spread over the full face of the bishop.
" You know the penalty for marrying a Catholic heiress to a
Protestant?" he demanded.
" I knew the penalty, your highness, but I also knew I should
352 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES.
have the satisfaction of converting a Protestant to Catholicism,
and placing in your highuess s hand the sum of five thousand dollars
for the benefit of the church ; and the money would have been
forthcoming long since, had not my friend, Father Juan, sought
to enrich his convent by abducting the lady, and confining her, re
gardless of her will."
44 It s false ! " cried Father Juan, when he saw the frown dis
appear from the bishop s face. * 4 The lady went of her free
will."
" I did not," cried Teresa, starting up. " You carried me away
by force."
" Father Juan," the bishop said, " it seems that your conduct
has been extremely reprehensible ; and I am astonished that a
priest, in my jurisdiction, should have so far forgotten his duty."
" But I claim the life of the heretic for daring to enter my
convent disguised as a woman. That charge he cannot refute."
" He can, and does refute it," Benventuro cried. " He hired
an English lady to enter the building, and the result was the
escape of his wife, who was unjustly detained there. This we
can prove."
44 What a splendid pleader he is ! " I thought, but took good care
not to say as much, for I thought it might damage my cause. I
knew the bait of five thousand dollars was producing its effect,
and determined to let it work.
44 There must be a mistake," the archbishop said. " I don t think
a man so respectable-looking would be willing to violate any law
of this land. I find no reason to detain the bride or bridegroom
longer, and have no doubt that, after their long separation, they
would gladly be alone."
The bishop left his seat and came towards us, and shook hands
with us warmly.
44 You have a handsome bride," he said, " and many of our
gallants will envy your good fortune. I hope you will make this
country your future home. We like the Americans when they
don t come as filibusters. Join the church, love your wife, and
you will suffer no more persecution."
I turned to look for Father Juan, but, baffled and disappointed,
he had left the room.
44 The money which I intend for the church shall be placed in
THE SPIRIT OF REVENGE. 353
your hands this week," I said to his highness, at which informa
tion he smiled, and looked far from being displeased.
We moved towards the door, and when we reached the street,
the bishop raised his hands over us as though bestowing his bene
diction. In an instant every hat worn by those in front of the
palace was removed, and then the crowd scattered to the right and
left, and in five minutes not ten men could be seen.
u Victory, victory ! " cried Benventuro, in triumph. " You are
safe and happy."
" But you are not safe, damned, treacherous villain ! " cried a
voice ; and from behind a tree started Father Juan, his eyes flash
ing with rage, and his thin face convulsed with the agony of
defeat.
I saw a quick movement of his arm, and then my friend, Father
Benventuro, fell to the pavement, the blood spurting from a terrible
wound in his side.
" I m a dead man," he gasped ; " but don t let me die un
avenged."
I knelt by his side and endeavored to stanch the blood which
flowed so freely, but it was in vain. He never spoke again. In
ten minutes he breathed his last.
" He is dead, and my secret dies with him," I heard a voice
say ; and on looking up I saw Antonio. " You have a clear field
now," he cried. ** Your friend and enemy are dead. What more
could you desire? " and off he walked, and I never saw his face
again in Manila. That which bound him to Benventuro I never
knew.
Allen, who had started in -pursuit of Father Juan, did not over
take him until the same knife that ended Benventuro s days had
terminated the Jesuit s life. He cut his throat in his flight, and
he cut it deeply, too. Both of the bodies were removed to the
nearest convent, and were buried privately, to prevent excitement
among the people.
My story is now ended ; but before I close, will state that as
soon as I could settle up my affairs and my wife s estate, we
left the country and never returned. My wife is a treasure,
and has several small ones to her great gratification and my
pride. She is as handsome as ever, and twice as quick tempered.
Before we left the country I succeeded in getting Sara released
23
354 LIFE IN THE EAST INDIES. v
from the convent, and she was married in a short time to my
friend Tom. They are now residing in New York, contented
with their lot. Allen was at Manila a few years ago, but I
understand that he acquired a fortune, and settled in China for
the purpose of establishing a house. Gracia married a Spaniard,
and I gave her a thousand dollars as a nuptial present. Her
father is in the chain gang, and likely to remain there for several
years. The factory at Santa Mesa is still continued, and worth
a visit. With these explanations I bid the reader a long fare
well, for this book ends the Ocean Life Series.
MAR 27 1939
VERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY
