Before any reply could be made a lighted lantern was held up that the party might be inspected. Then the leader of the rebels, for the horsemen were nothing less, approached Estella. "We are sorry, madame," he said, in excellent Spanish, "but I am afraid we will have to detain you for at least twenty-four hours." "And why?" she asked, much startled. "It were better not to ask questions. If you will go with us quietly I will promise you that no harm will befall you." "You are insurgents, then?" "Yes." "You are about to attack Marambo?" "I told you not to ask questions," was the quick response and now the tone was sharper. "Marco, take three men and lead the horses of these people to the hollow I mentioned," went on the commanding officer, turning to the tall fellow who had called out the challenge. "This is a strange proceeding, but I presume we must submit," said Estella. Had she not dreaded the time lost, it would not have alarmed her to be held a prisoner by the rebels. As they moved away from the road the commanding officer rode up beside her and entered into conversation. She learned that he was Captain Hugo Martinez, of the Second Cuban Cavalry. He was a thorough gentleman, and treated Estella with every courtesy possible under existing circumstances. He asked her about herself, and was much surprised when she expressed a strong sympathy for the insurgents. "It is a pity your father is not equally patriotic," he said. "It might save him much trouble." "I suppose you will attack our plantation very soon," said Estella, with a shudder. "No; we have more important work on hand," and then Captain Martinez bit his black mustache as if realizing suddenly that he had said too much. "You refer to a premeditated attack on Marambo," went on Estella. "Well, if that city is to be taken I trust it will be taken quickly." "You do?" he asked, in astonishment "Yes." "And why, señora?" Estella blushed before replying. Then she glanced up boldly at him. "I have a very dear friend who is in the prison there. He is to be tried to-morrow morning as a spy, and he will most likely be shot. If the city falls into your hands he may escape." "And who is your friend?" "Mr. Howard Sherwood, an American newspaper correspondent." "Ah! I have heard of him. And you wish him rescued? It shall be done!" "Oh!" Estella gave an exclamation of joy. "Then I am right--you intend to attack the city this night." "Hush! not one word, for there are Spanish spies about," warned Captain Martinez. "You--ah--I half fancy I can trust you, señora--on your friend's account." "You can trust me," whispered Estella. "Try me and see. I will do anything to aid in the liberation of Howard Sherwood. I will confess to you--he is my lover!" "He should be a happy man to have so beautiful a sweetheart," said the captain, gallantly. Then his eyes lighted up suddenly. "You say you will do anything to help us? That means a great deal, in such times as these."