Still it was only with extreme repugnance that the Captain saw himself compelled to enter into relations with him; the reason for this it would certainly have been very difficult, if not impossible for him to say; but there are in nature certain laws which cannot be gainsaid, and which cause us at the mere sight of a person, and before he has even spoken, to feel a sympathy or antipathy for him, and be attracted or repulsed by him. Whence comes this species of secret presentiment which is never wrong in its appreciation? That we cannot explain: we merely confine ourselves to mentioning a fact, whose influence we have often undergone and efficacy recognized, during the course of our chequered life. We are bound to assert that the Captain did not feel at all attracted toward the man to whom we refer, but, on the contrary, was disposed to place no confidence in him. "At what place did you leave the General?" he asked, as he mechanically turned in his fingers the open despatch, at which he had not yet looked. "At Pozo Redondo, a little in advance of the Noria de Guadalupe, Captain." "Who are you--what is your name?" "I am the assistente of his most excellent General; my name is Gregorio Lopez." "Do you know the contents of this despatch?" "No; but I suppose it is important." The soldier replied to the Captain's questions with perfect freedom and frankness. It was evident that he was telling the truth. After a final hesitation, Don Juan made up his mind to read; but he soon began frowning, and an angry expression spread over his features. This is what the despatch contained:-- _"Pozo Redondo."_