“Well,” he said a trifle impatiently, “you can explain it to the Alcalde. Will you go for the Senor Harper, and unlock the cellar next the stables as you come back, Pancho? He would be safe there until to‐ morrow.” The major‐domo shook his head. “It would be better if you let him go,” he said. “The law is troublesome and expensive in this country.” Appleby, who was already aware of this, reflected. He knew the insecurity of his own position, and Harding had warned him especially to keep clear of any complications with the officials; while he had confidence in Pancho and recognized the significance of his tone. Still, he was unwilling to let their captive go scot‐free and gazed at him steadily. The man, who met his gaze, smiled a little. “It is good advice Don Pancho has given you. I tell you so with all sincerity.” “Well,” said Appleby, “you can go, but you will not get off so easily if you ever come back again. Still, I want the pistol you stole from me.” The man raised his shoulders. “It is an unpleasant word, señor, and you will find the pistol in the drawer beneath the one where you usually keep it. It is too noisy a weapon to be much esteemed in Cuba. Still, to requite a courtesy, you will take a hint from me. When a man is in charge of a good many pesetas it is not wise of him to keep his pistol in a drawer.” He slipped down from the table, asked Pancho for his knife, and took off his hat with grave politeness when it was handed him. Then he went down the stairway, and sitting down at the foot of it apparently put his shoes on before he strode away along the tram‐line. Appleby laid his hand on the major‐domo’s shoulder. “You came opportunely, comrade,” he said. “I am grateful.” It was not by accident he employed the Castilian word which implies a kindly regard as well as familiarity, and the man seemed to recognize it, for he smiled curiously. “It is nothing, señor,” he said. “I did not sleep well, and saw the man creep into the veranda from my bed, which is near the window. In not sending him to the Alcalde you were wise.” “I am not sure that I was,” said Appleby. Pancho made a little gesture. “It is a turbulent country, and the man who escapes trouble is the one who lives the most quietly.” He turned away, as though to avoid further questions, while Appleby went back to bed, and, contrary to his expectations, slept until the morning.