In going out, the Governor invited us into his private apartments, and while being entertained there, I jokingly told him of the queer request the brigands had made.

I was more than ever astonished at his replying: "Como no?
Senor" "Why not, sir ?" "When starting, next morning, I was frequently warned that the river was very bad; but could get no information of any consequence, except that it wound through many canyons.

The whole town turned out to see me off and as I was feeling very much refreshed, I was soon ready.

Going to the bank, what was my astonishment to see all those gentle murderers standing in a row with carbineros on either side, guarding them.

One of the brigands, the spokesman of the day before, stepped forward and addressed me thus.
"'Illustrious Captain.