"That’s right. If you’re the fellow I take you for, you won’t want any further instructions from me. What means you use I must leave to your own discretion. I’ll supply you with anything you require; money in moderation. I am terribly hard up; our Government showers gold on the Spaniards, but can’t afford to pay my army. Now, before we settle the matter, it is only fair to warn you of the danger you run. If you are caught by the French within what they claim to be their lines, you’ll be shot, as sure as eggs is eggs. Think of it then; you have free choice. Will you go?" "I’ll take the risk, sir," replied Jack instantly. "It is confidential, of course," added the general. "You will report direct to me what information you obtain, or, in my absence, to one of my aides-de-camp or to General Paget." "I am at liberty to employ messengers?" "Certainly, but you will satisfy yourself that they are trustworthy." "And may I have a map?" "Of course. We haven’t too many, and they are not particularly good, but send your man, and I will have one looked out within an hour. How long will it take you to make your preparations?" "Not a minute longer than is necessary to get a Spanish dress and requisition a mule," answered Jack with a smile. "You’ll make a presentable Spaniard," said Moore, smiling back. "But wouldn’t a horse serve you better than a mule? You were riding a good mount yesterday." "A horse would attract too much attention, I think, sir. And I was used to riding mules when I was young." Sir John laughed. "You’re not a very ancient Pistol even now, Mr. Lumsden," he said. "But that’s the right spirit; regard yourself as a man and you’ll do a man’s work. Well, that is settled, then. I’ll send you some money, and I hope you will do me valuable service and come back with a whole skin. Stay; you want a Spanish outfit. I know the very man who can be useful to you—a Spanish gentleman, one of the old school. I will write you a line of introduction. Let me see." Sir John hastily rummaged among a heap of papers. "I mustn’t forget one of the names; that would be an unpardonable slight. Here it is." He scribbled a note, copying the address with some care. Jack read: "El Señor Don Pedro Benito Aguilar Quadrato Garrapinillos de Sarrion de Gracioso," and caught a twinkle in Sir John’s eye. "I am sure he will do all he can for you," added the commander-in-chief. "He is a good patriot, not a painted one. Now good-bye, and good luck to you!" He shook hands with Jack, who, feeling as though he trod on air, so much elated was he at the confidence placed in him, went back to his quarters. At the door he found a small group of his fellow-officers, evidently in a high state of excitement. "Hi, Jack," cried Smith, as he came up to them, "what do you think of this? The army’s going to retreat." "You don’t say so?" said Jack with well-feigned surprise.