At the sight of the gold the jailer's eyes glistened. He walked to the corridor, looked out to see that no one was in sight, then came back and held out his grimy hand. "I am a poor man, otherwise I would not take the señor's money," he said, apologetically. "What is it the señor wishes to know?" "How long I am to remain here." "I cannot answer that. It depends upon the orders received from Captain Nocolo and Lieutenant Mazenas." "They are in charge here?" "Yes. Captain Nocolo takes charge of the rebel prisoners from the plantations, and Lieutenant Mazenas the prisoners from along the line of the railroad." "Where have these two gone?" "Off to the battle, back of Señor Corona's plantations. The rebels are there, burning the cane-fields." At these words Howard was much astonished. "Is Señor Corona's estate close by?" he questioned. "Less than a mile away." "And they are fighting there, on the place?" "The rebels have not yet reached the place itself, I believe, but they are fast approaching. But they're but a handful, and they will soon be subdued--either killed or taken prisoners." The young war correspondent was not assured by this explanation. The fighting was close to Estella's home, and if she were there, she would be in grave peril! Oh, if he were but free to fly to her! "Do you know much of Captain Nocolo?" he questioned. "Very little, señor; I am a new man here." "And how much do they pay you for working here?" The man's face fell. "As yet I have received nothing but promises," he murmured. "The Government cannot collect the taxes, and so--" "You must suffer, eh?" "That is it, señor. But we have promises----" "Which may never be fulfilled." Howard drew closer. "Listen: I just gave you a piece of gold. Let me throw you to the floor and take your key from you, and I will give you ten more pieces of the same weight. I am an innocent man, so you will commit no crime by helping me to freedom." The jailer contemplated Howard in silence and indecision; but as the prisoner brought out the golden pieces his eyes blazed with greediness. "Give them to me, señor," he eagerly whispered. "I will let you go. But you must swear not to betray me!" "Enough; you have my word. Here is the money. Quick! which way can I leave the prison the easiest?" The jailer snatched the gold and put it in his pocket. Then with a leap he reached the cell door. "You remain where you are!" he shouted, in mockery. "I am no fool to----" He got no farther. With the rapidity of lightning Howard bounded toward him, clutched him by the throat, and dashed him to the floor. "Knave!" he whispered, as he bent over him, his knee on his breast, his hand once more on his throat! "Dare to make a sound, and I will squeeze the life out of you!"