Admitted, Don Francisco at once displayed the
fact that a night's reflection had quickened his apprehensions for
the city of Maracaybo and his condemnation of the Admiral's
intransigence.
Captain Blood received him pleasantly.
"Good-morning to you, Don Francisco. I have postponed the bonfire
until nightfall. It will make a better show in the dark."
Don Francisco, a slight, nervous, elderly man of high lineage and
low vitality, came straight to business.
"I am here to tell you, Don Pedro, that if you will hold your hand
for three days, I will undertake to raise the ransom you demand,
which Don Miguel de Espinosa refuses."
Captain Blood confronted him, a frown contracting the dark brows
above his light eyes:
"And where will you be raising it?" quoth he, faintly betraying his
surprise.
Don Francisco shook his head. "That must remain my affair," he
answered. "I know where it is to be found, and my compatriots must
contribute. Give me leave for three days on parole, and I will see
you fully satisfied. Meanwhile my son remains in your hands as a
hostage for my return.
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