WATCHING THE MIDNIGHT LIGHTS Don Luis Montez laid down the pen.

Outwardly he was as amiable as ever; certainly he was all smiles.
"A thousand pardons, _caballeros_!" he murmured.

"Of course, you are quite right.

It had not occurred to me in that light before.
True, the report was intended only for my own pleasure in later years, but that does not alter the nice point of honor." Tom Reade was deceived by Don Luis's manner.

He did not suspect that, at this very instant, the Mexican was consumed with demoniacal rage.
"I shall not be patient another time," muttered Don Luis, between his teeth and under his breath.