human
Why do you come, _señor_?
gpt
To keep my word, and his white teeth gleamed in an effort at pleasantness.
human
I am always truthful with your sex; and I told you I would return shortly.
gpt
Yet why? she insisted, anxious only to keep him away as long as possible, and yet enchain his interest.
human
If I am prisoner here, I am not your prisoner. Do you come, then, to serve me?
gpt
Can you doubt that, _señorita_? still endeavouring to retain the mask he had first assumed.
human
Because circumstances make me defy the law--a mere love of adventure, no more--is no reason why I should be devoid of heart and sympathy. He took a step nearer.
gpt
Since leaving here I have questioned the men who brought you, and learned why you were made prisoner. I care nothing for this Bill Lacy--nothing, and he snapped his fingers derisively.
human
Why should I? But, instead, I would be your friend.
gpt
You mean your purpose is to aid me to escape?
human
It would be my great happiness to do so. There is danger, yet what is danger to Juan Cateras? 'Tis only part of my life. The _señorita_ is an American, and to her one of my race may not appeal, yet I would prove my devotion with my life.
gpt
Your devotion, _señor_!
human
Is not the word expressive! Though I have seen you but once before, my heart is already devoted to your interest. I am of a Southern race, _señorita_, and we do not calculate--we feel. Why, then, should I conceal my eagerness? It is love which causes me to thus defy all and offer you freedom.
gpt
Love! she laughed.
human
Why, that is impossible. Surely you only jest, _señor_.
gpt
Jest! You would call it a jest. You will not think so for long. Why, what can you do? No; stop shrinking back from me. It will be well that you listen. This is no parlour where you can turn me away with a word of scorn, and his eyes swept the bare walls.
human
I come to you with a chance of escape; I will take the risk and pledge you my aid. I alone can save you; there is no other to whom you can turn. In return I but ask my reward.
gpt
You promise me your assistance?
human
Within the hour.
gpt
How? What plan have you?
human
That I will not tell; you must trust me. I am the lieutenant of Pasqual Mendez, a touch of pride in his voice.
gpt
And my word alone will open the way. You will come?
human
Wait; I must know more. You say it is love which prompts your offer, _señor_. I cannot understand; and even if this be true, I must be frank and honest in my answer--I do not return your love.
gpt
Bah! That is nothing. I know women; they learn love quickly when the way opens. I am not so ill to look at, _señorita_. A kiss now will seal the bargain! I will wait the rest.
human
You ask no pledge, then, of me?
gpt
Only your consent to accompany me, and the kiss. Beyond that I take the gambler's chance. Only you must say yes or no; for it will require time for me to clear the road.
human
It must be to-night?
gpt
The sooner the better; they tell me Lacy will be here himself soon, and after he comes the one chance is over with. You will give the kiss?
human
Do not ask it, _señor_!
gpt
Oh, but I will--aye, more, I'll take it. A dozen will do no harm, and no scream from those lips will be heard. You may as well be nice, my beauty.