He could not resist, and so it was arranged that she should accompany him. Arm-in-arm they strolled out into the balmy woods, where they were perfectly safe from the enemy. His arm was about her slender waist, and never were a couple happier than they, despite the clouds that hovered over them. "This war cannot last much longer," he said, "and once it is at an end, we will try to make peace with your father. I am sure I can do this when I am able to bring the rascally Lieutenant Mazenas into court, and show how he and his confederates have swindled me out of my uncle's estate." "I trust so, Howard," she replied. "Yet, my father is very stern and unrelenting. You will have no easy task." "Let us hope for the best," he rejoined. Then the subject was dropped, and he spoke only of love to her, spoke in such a tender way that she felt he was indeed her heart's idol. At last the setting sun told them they must return, to make their brief preparations for the ceremony which was to join them together so long as life should last. Alas! little did they dream of all the horrors in store for both ere a haven of rest and peace should be found! Howard was called away at the entrance to the large tent, and went off, leaving Estella in the care of her maid. Cara had been arranging her mistress' scanty things, and now she set to work to dress Estella for the ceremony. In less than half an hour all was in readiness, and Howard came back, in full rebel uniform, and accompanied by the chaplain, the Rev. Mr. Ponesberry. They were followed by the native band of half a dozen pieces, who stationed themselves at one side, and awaited the signal to strike up the wedding march. Orange blossoms were numerous, and not only did Estella have a wreath, but the whole tent was decked with them, as well as with palms and trailing vines. A dozen lanterns were hung up, giving to the scene a really finished and beautiful appearance. "Are you ready, Estella?" whispered Howard, and at her nodded assent he spoke to Tomasso, and immediately the others gathered around, and the musicians played a well-known Spanish wedding march. Leaning upon her lover's arm, Estella was led through the crowd, that opened to let them pass, to the opposite end of the large tent, where, with bared head and Bible in hand, the clergyman stood ready to receive them. A short prayer was offered, and then the clergyman uttered those solemn words, "If any one hath aught to say why these two should not be joined together in holy wedlock, let him now come forward and speak, or otherwise forever hold his tongue." The last echo of the words had hardly died away when there was a sudden stir. "Surrender!" came in a well-known voice outside of the tent, and the next instant General Corona appeared, sword in hand, and followed by a body of Spanish soldiers. "Men, spare my daughter, but as for the American spy, if he attempts to escape, shoot him on the spot!" CHAPTER XXXIII.