Perhaps she was not so unfamiliar with scenes of confusion, since her father had been the governor of famous old Morro Castle, under the walls of which many a remarkable event has occurred since the days of the Virginius affair, when American filibusters were shot down by order of the Spanish authorities. At any rate she was still there, watching the house where so much clamor arose, twisting and untwisting her little hands in nervous anxiety. Thanks to Roderic's vandal hand her pretty face was no longer screened by a veil, and more than one rough soldier drank in the outlines of her charming features with avidity. She was evidently deeply concerned in the outcome of the search. Roderic should feel flattered at this evidence of approval from so sincere a source. It was no time, however, to indulge in any foolish speculations, or allow his masculine vanity a chance to arise. Julio was still on deck, and since his eyesight was apparently as sound as ever, despite his rough treatment at the hands of the Yankee, it would be a wretched mistake to again come under his withering observation, for on this occasion no friendly balcony might offer him an asylum from the outstretched hands of the bolero dancer's excited allies. So Roderic approached the spot where stood the girl--he must exchange words with her, no matter what the risk or the consequences--at least it was necessary that some rendezvous be appointed where he could engage her more fully in conversation. With this set object in view he drew near, and watching his opportunity whispered: "Senorita--Leon's sister--turn this way!" She must have heard him, for she immediately forgot to watch the house that was being searched, and fastened her eyes on him. Roderic, fearing lest she might by means of some unwise exclamation draw Julio's attention to him, had a finger on his lips, indicating caution. He saw her start and knew she immediately suspected his identity. Time was most valuable, and it was utterly out of the question for him to learn what he desired while laboring under such serious disadvantages. Besides, it was folly to run any more risk than was absolutely necessary, and with such a good hater as the dashing _bolero_ dancer only three yards away, every second he remained there increased his danger. At any rate he could not blame Leon for falling in love with such a charming creature as the governor's daughter--Roderic considered himself a fair judge of beauty, even if he were not a connoisseur, and he saw a vision of loveliness before him that might easily have disturbed the sternest old anchorite. Another thing--he discovered traces of distinct resemblance between this girl and the handsome Julio, so that a suspicion as to their possible relationship flashed into his mind.