They re-entered the rancho, the door of which the painter scrupulously closed after him. When they had sat down, the young man opened a bottle of rum, poured out a glass, and, after having tasted it, he gave two or three puffs of smoke, and then placing his glass on the table-- "The situation is grave," he said, throwing himself back in his chair; "do you wish that we should speak unreservedly?" "I should like nothing better," answered the old man, casting at him a furtive look from beneath his half-closed eyelids. "First and before all, let us understand one another thoroughly," pursued Émile, smiling; "here we do not talk diplomatically: is it not so?" "Why should we?" said his companion, smiling. "Why, the force of habit may lead you away, and, believe me, at this moment it would be a wrong to yourself to allow yourself thus to be led." "Fear nothing. I shall be with you as frank as possible." "Um!" said the young man, with a half-convinced air; "However, it matters not, I will risk it; so much the worse for you if you do not keep your promise, for I have no other interest but yours." "I am convinced of it; speak, then, fearlessly." "First, one question. You are going to Tucumán?" "Have I not told you so?" "Just so. A part of the men who accompany you are disguised soldiers that the government of Buenos Aires has given you to serve you for the escort." "How do you know that?" "In a way which it is difficult to guess. So you are charged with a political mission?" "I!" "Parbleu! That speaks for itself; only I wish you to observe that it is completely indifferent to me, and that I do not attach the least importance to it." "But--" "Allow me to continue. From what has passed tonight, it is evident to me that a part of your escort is traitorous, and intends to give you up to the Spaniards." "Do you think so?" "I am sure of it." "Matters are serious, then?" "You have a mission?" "Suppose what you please; but aid me in escaping from my embarrassment." "Well, I understand; you need say no more. Now, you will never reach Tucumán!" "Do you know your opinion is also mine?" "Pardieu! I know it well. Now that these fellows are curbed, this is what I propose--" "Well?" "But, take particular notice that it is only in your interest." "I am convinced of it." "If it is agreeable to you, as these bandits profess a certain respect for me, I offer to accompany you as far as Tucumán." "My dear compatriot, nothing can be more agreeable to me in every way than this proposition. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are literally saving my life." "Pardon me--but on one condition." "But what is that condition?" said the old man. "It is simple; I believe that you will accept it with enthusiasm," answered the young man, laughing. "Tell me, tell me; I am all attention." "I must tell you that, without ever having been able to give myself a reason for it, I have always felt a profound disgust for politics."