415 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS: OR, THE BRIGANDS OF MEXICO ^ Sole of SANTA ANNA AND HIS TIM ^r ; AUTHOR OF ' THE BURGLARS,' 'BELLE OF BOSTON,' 'Nuw OF ST. URSULA,' ETC. BOSTON: GLEASON'S PUBLISHING HALL, 1 1-2 TREMONT ROW. 1845. E Uared according to Act of <5nnres, in the Year 1845, by F OUeason,in the Clerk'i Of- fic of the District Court of Massachusetts. )ITffV ffft dliil icrofl Ubwy . THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. CHAPTER I. MEXICAN EVENTS. A DEEP BARRANCA. OUR HERO IN DISGUISE. AT TACK AND CONFUSION OF THE ROBBERS. CAVALIERS OF NUNEZ. THE BANDITTI. THE FRIENDLY ENCOUNTER. MEXICO the land of revolutions, as it may be justly termed has, ever since its invasion by the hardy Spaniards, presented a more prolific field for writers of fiction than perhaps any other country on the globe ; and for abundance of materiel the romancer need not go back to the days of Montezurna and Cortez, or even to the era of the extinction of the Span ish dominion, but merely turn to events which have transpired within his own memory to the seven revolutions which have succeeded each other in rapid succession since eighteen hundred and twenty one, and which the novelist has left almost untouched. The colossal and romantic grandeur of the scenery of the country the peculiar character of its people the mag nificence and wealth of its cities the lawless bands of free rovers who in fest its forests and mountains all combine to throw a sort of enchantment over it, to the minds of those who are conversant with the history of the El Dorado of the New World. The prominent events of the few past years lend an additional interest to this ill-fated country; events which have been characterized by as bloody and cruel deeds as ever blackened the pages of Mexican or Spanish history. We need but refer to the grito dt libertad of Santa Anna and Victoria in eighteen hundred arid twenty two, or to the horrible scenes of the Jlcordada gix years subsequent, or to the three revolts of a later date ; and in a year 6 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. or two more, another undoubtedly will be recorded ; and thus will it con tinue until a Napoleon or an Alexander rises up and assumes absolute pow er. At every change of government it becomes necessary for hundreds of officers and soldiers, who are attached to the defeated party, to flee from the tyranny of those in power, and to seek refuge in the mountains and forests, where they organize themselves into banditti, and become a terror to all travellers. In some instances they have even been known to be allied with some of the officers of state, and thus are ena bled to rob and even murder with,impunity by day as well as by night. The scene of the introductory incident to our tale lies at the foot of Mount Orizava, or the Star-Mountain as it is frequently called. A deep ravine, dark and dreary, through which the road is cut, has to be passed before the ascent to the mountain-gorge. On one side inaccessible cliffs rear their rugged heads, while on the other a dense forest of lofty pines spread their branches to the sky. It is, indeed, a gloomy place, and the many rude cros ses placed upon each side of the road, tell tales of horrible and murderous scenes which have here been enacted, and by travellers it is considered the most dangerous point to be passed on the whole route from V*?ra Cruz to the capital. The sun had receded about two hours from the meridian on a fine clear day in mid-summer, and illumining with her bright gleams the snowy peaks which rise up in towering grandeur and sublimity at every view, as a single horseman mounted upon a large raw-boned lookirg steed, was wending his way leisurely and unconcernedly through the fearful ravine already alluded to. A coarse Mexican chaqueta hung loosely over his shoulder, and his legs were encased in a ragged pair of calzoneras, while upon his head he wore an old gacho or sombrero, which our fashionable hatters would have pronoun ced 'shocking bad,' could it have passed under their inspection. He look ed a veritable beggar upon a stolen horse. He had proceeded but a few rods through the ravine, when he dropped the bridle upon the horse's neck and took from the holsters of his saddle a pair of silver mounted pistols, which he inspected carefully and replaced them. From under his chaque ta he drew forth a long double-edged sharp-pointed mahaja and thrust it in to a leathern girdle that was buckled around his waist. This precaution being taken he drew in the reins of his steed, arid his uncouth beast started off with an ambling pace that would have excited the commiseration of any piece of horse-flesh that could have been produced. He had reached an abrupt turning point in the road, when a couple of dark fierce-looking ban dits, mounted upon high-mettled steeds, suddenly darted from the wood, and seizing the bridle of his horse, commanded him to dismount. 'Who so bold as to molest a peaceful traveller? demanded the stranger in an undaunted tone and manner, drawing his pistols. * Dismount caballero !' said one of the robbers. ' You have gold, not withstanding your ragged attire. But methinks you wear a better inside, THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 7 for no beggar could sport a pair of richly mounted pistols like unto those you hold in your hands.' ' Who art thou ?' ' Come, Senor, your gold ! We would not harm you !' * Again I ask, who dare obstruct my path ?' said the stranger resolutely. ' The followers of Don Manuel Manrique !' returned one of the robbers, as if he expected that the name of the Brigand Chief would strike the trav eller with awe !' 4 Ay! Don Manuel Manrique!' reiterated the stranger. 'The famed Ban dit of the Black Forest ! The terror of the whole valley of Mexico ! I've heard much of this celebrated robber! But I fear him as little as I do his unscrupulous lieutenant, Jose Garcilazo!' * Sante Maria ! The fellow knows you, Garcilazo !' said his comrade. 'Si, my fine lads, but no better than I know Ricardo De Vega, the boldest ladrone in the region of Orizava and the Coffre de Perote!' added the trav eller. The Brigands seemed staggered on hearing their names announced by the fearless stranger. They receded a few steps backward and assumed a more respectful bearing. ' May I ask your name ?' said Garcilazo. ' Alvorado Nunez !' * Alvorado Nunez !' reiterated both of the bandits, at the same time touch ing their g&chos with profound respect. ' Colonel Nunez here ? and in so mean a disguise ?' resumed Garcilazo. 4 We heard but two days ago you and your force entered the city of Gaute- mala with the brave Carrera, after a successful campaign against Morazari ! 'True! but my movements it is known are somewhat expeditious! Tell me, Garcilazo, does Manrique and his troop of Bandits now occupy the Black Forest ?' ' Si, Senor, and he will give his gallant cousin a cordial welcome. ' Where are your brave cavaliers, Colonel?' asked Ricardo De Vega. ' You shall see !' replied Nunez, and applying a post horn to his lips, he blew a signal blast, which was answered from the farther end of the barranca, and soon a company of cavalry, consisting of one hundred men, well mounted, suddenly issued from the forest, and came galloping at full speed towards their heroic leader. 'By San Pedr.\>! a noble looKing troop !' exclaimed Garcilazo. 'The most formidable company of horse in all Mexico!' rejoined De Vega. The robbers spake truly ; for the whole force of the Republic could not boast of a nobler or a better disciplined corps of cavaliers. It was composed of young and gallant fellows, most of whom were allied to the best fami lies of Mexico, and who, having opposed the pronunciadors, or revolutioni zes, and adhered to the unforturtate Bustamente, were either banished or fled for safety on Santa Anna's coming into power. Their chosen leader, Alvorado Nunez, was a Colonel in the army of Bustamente, and accompan- \ 8 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. ied the deposed President to Spain, where many noble Mexicans with him sought refuge. Here was suggested and planned the organized force we have brought so suddenly before the reader. Before leaving Spain they supplied themselves with cavalry uniforms and equipments, which they con veyed secretly to the mountain retreats of Mexico, where they were thor oughly disciplined by Alvorado Nunez. In this romantic region of coun try they resolved to roam, and intercept the government treasures which might fall in their way between the coast and the capital, until they might co-operate with any new pronunciadors to overthrow the usurper. Although some of the corps occasionally levied contributions on travellers, yet such conduct met the decided reprehension of their chief. Manrique, not liking to be confined to the fastidious notions of his superior officer, with drew from him and formed a company which he styled the Independent Rovers, and whose deeds on the highway were of a most atrocious charae- ter. Nunez, fearing that these acts of his cousin might be attributed to him, resolved to abandon that section of country. Accordingly he made overtures to General Carrera, the renowned Gautemalian patriot, and with his cavaliers united himself with the undisciplined followers of this sue- ce'ssful leader. Manrique and Nunez had parted on seemingly friendly terms, and up to this time had not met for more than a year. The cavaliers of Nunez were now paraded in a line extending nearly hah' the distance of the barranca, and they presented not. only a formidable but a beautiful and orderly appearance. They were mounted on white steeds, neatly and even richly caparisoned. Their chaquetas were of green velvet, embroidered with silver thread and striped with silver lace, with rows ol bell buttons, of the same metal, placed closely together; the breeches were of black velvet, striped with gold lace. Their caps, also, were of vel vet, with a gold band, and tassels of bullion extending nearly to the left shoulder. A scarlet sash and leathern belt were fastened around the waist, to which were appended Spanish swords and carved-handle mahajas. Light carbines were swung to their backs, and the holsters of their saddles were fully supplied with pistols. Indeed, no corps of light cavalry had ever been seen in Mexico that would favorably compare with them since the country was hailed as a republic. 'Now, Senors Garcilazo and De Vega,' who were gazing with admira tion on the cavalcade before them, 'I would see your chief.' 'Si, Colonel,' replied Garcilazo. 'You have but to follow me at a quick pace for half an hour. I fear our cavalry will make a sorry appearance in contrast with yours; but our quarters are well supplied with solid cornforte and you and your troop will be cordially welcomed. These things wiJ) doubtless recompense for a more favorable outside show.' 'Thy words promise well. Lead the way.' Nunez now ordered his men to wheel into platoons ; in another moment they were galloping at an easy pace along the winding ascent to the moun tain, and having reached a mule path which led to the right through the THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 9 thick forest, they halted. Here Garcilazo gave a shrill whistle with a silver tube attached to a riding whip, which in a lew moments was answered faintly in the distance. At length the heavy tramp of horses was distinctly heard, and a company of banditti, numbering four score, emerged one by one from the wood, and arranged themselves in the road above at the dis-* tunce of a hundred rods. Garcilazo and De Vega spurred their horses up the ascent, where the bandits had assembled, and after a brief consultation with their chief, they wheeled their horses, and, followed by the whole company, rode slowly to wards the cavaliers of Nunez, who received them with a courteous salute. As Garcilazo had intimated they did not contrast very favorably with the well accoutered cavaliers before them. Don Manuel's men were oddly if not fantastically apparelled. There were no dresses in the corps that bore any resemblance, either as to fashion or fabric, one with another. It seemed as if each man had attired himself to suit his own convenience or taste; and to give an adequate idea of the whole would require a minute and sep arate description of each bandit. Generally, their dresses were exceeding ly gaudy, and a collection of the whole might have formed an extensive and magnificent theatrical wardrobe. One sported the costume of a Spanish cav alier ; another appeared as a Mexican general ; a third as an arriero ; a fourth as a Brigand of the Appenines ; a fifth as a Camanche chief; a sixth as a Rus sian cossack ; a seventh as a French cuirassier; and indeed, all might be distinguished by some fashion of dress peculiar to nearly every nation OB the globe. They were as motley a looking crew as ever passed in review the 'Ancient and Honorable Artillery,' the army of Bombastes, or the rag ged regiment of Falstaff to the contrary notwithstanding. Before the banditti arrived. Nunez divested himself of his disguise, and was now mounted upon a noble looking and high-mettled charger, of a cream-color, contrasting oddly with the insignificant beast from which h had just dismounted. The cavalier leader wore the uniform of his corps, with the addition of silver epaulettes, and a helmet cap with ostrich plumes. He was dignified, noble and commanding in appearance, although scarcely twenty-three years of age. His hair was black as the raven's, but fine and glossy, and it curled luxuriantly from beneath his cap and even rested upon his shoulders. His eyes were dark and large and quick-sighted as the an telope's, yet the expression of his face was mild, ingenuous and magnani mous. His sun-browned cheeks told of exposure to the torrid sun, while a scar upon his prominent forehead indicattd that he had passed through .scones of danger. Manrique was a tall, powerfully-framed man, some five years older than his cousin, with small black penetrating eyes, shaggy eyebrows, COTB- pressed lips, and long straight hair. His countenance wore a sinister ex jression, although it indicated resolution and courage. His dress was pure ly that of a Brigand black velvet embroidered chaqueta, yellow safi* waistcoat spangled with silver ; silk breeches, fastened at the knee with rib- 10 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. bons ; and on his ruffled shirt bosom was displayed a diamond brooch,\vhile his fingers sparkled with jewelled rings of great value. His brigand hat was also enriched with a cluster of precious stones, forming the socket of a single eagle's feather, which towered gracefully above his head. A wide black leather belt encompassed his waist, fastened in front by a huge silver buckle, from which hung a rapier and a gold-mounted stilletto. As he ap proached Alvorado Nunez he assumed a complacent look, and a forced smile lingered upon his inauspicious features. 4 Buen vtnido ! Welcome ! cousin Nunez,' said Manrique as he halted. * Muchas gracias ! many thanks!' replied Nunez. * You have fared well, my gallant cousin ; your ranks are full ; your mew well armed and well equipped. The account of your success in Gautemala has already reached us,' said the bandit chief as he glanced his eye along the column of cavaliers. 'That we have rendered some assistance to the patriot Carrera, I do not doubt. Would that we might do something towards freeing our own un happy country from a despot's sway. But how's this, Manrique ? Your fol lowers look as if they had been collected from the four quarters of the globe !' said Nunez, slightly ironical. 4 You are aware that we style ourselves the Independent Rovers, and ev ery man accouters himself in accordance with his taste and independence. Yet we live in great harmony, and the time with us passes away as merrily and as happily as mortals can desire. Come, you shall partake of our hos pitality. Let us forget past feuds, and strive to be friends. Our rendez vous lies but half a league irom this, and the sun will have disappeared ere you can find comfortable shelter for yourself and comrades.' 1 True !' replied Nunez, hesitating. * But ' 4 Nay, nay, cousin, make no objections. You must consent to be our guests for to-night, at least ; besides I have important information ior your ear that may yet serve thee well.' 4 Well, well, Manrique, I accept your hospitable offer. Lead ihe way, we will accompany you.' In a lew moments both companies of cavalier* were in motion, the two chiefs riding side by side in the centre of the column. They entered the forest, pursuing a labarynthirie course, almost bewildering to the fol lowers of Nunez. THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 11 CHAPTER II. SCENERY OF MEXICO. GORGEOUS CAVE or THE BRIGANDS. THE BAN QUET. WEALTH OF THE BRIGAND CHIEF. THE TIARA OF DIAMONDS. THE TOAST. INDIGNATION OF NUNEZ. The day was far advanced, and the lofty snow-crowned peak of Orizava reflected the last rays of the setting sun, a& the two companies of outlawed cavaliers reached an open square, nearly level, surrounded by a dense growth of trees, at an elevation of upwards of two thousand feet from the ravine, the scene of our first incident. It was a lovely evening, and from this lofty eminence could be viewed a scene of grandeur and magnificence the val ley of Mexico with its plains, its lakes, its forests, and cities ot architec tural beauty embosomed within dark huge mountains rising up at ev ery view. Far in the distance were to be seen the snow-capped volcanic peaks and intervening isolated cones gleaming in the blue sky, making the vast extended landscape sublime and grand if not picturesquely beautiful. Upon this commanding height the two bands of outlaws dismounted, and at a signal a number of Indian grooms appeared, who led the horses to a cavern, fitted up into a convenient stable, contiguous to the plain. The men were now ordered into a line, after which they filed singly through a clump of thick bushes, seemingly the most impenetrable place bordering the square. After proceeding some twenty rods, they halted before a stu pendous mound of granite, covered with moss and small shrubs, extending from base to summit upwards of eighty feet. A rugged and narrow aper ture was visible in the mound, into which the bandit leader entered, followed by the whole corps, and as the last file disappeared a huge slab of rough stone moved diagonally from the top of the entrance, leaving the front, to all appearances as Nature had first formed it. The hall through which the outlaws first passed was na-row, and more rugged than the exterior of this cavernous mound, but as they proceeded onward it widened, when their progress was for a moment stayed, until a massive pair of iron doors could be unbolted, unbarred and thrown back upon their ponderous hinges. After descending a short flight of hewn stone steps the company stood in the armory of Don Manuel. This apartment was nearly forty feet in length, by twenty in breadth, and its height fifteen feet. From its rough granite sides were suspended carbines, pistols, sabres, mabajas, and horse equipage arranged in tolerable order. Here the cavaliers deposited their 12 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. arms and exchanged their uniforms for undress suits, and here all disci pline was ended. v any recognitions now took place between the corps of Nufiez and Manrique, for most of whom had either served together in the army of Bustamente or as outlaws under Nunez, and cordial greetings were extended to the guests and met with happy responses. Officers and sub ordinates were now on an equality, and all seemed disposed to pass the eve ning merrily raid happily. An hour passed when the cavaliers were summoned to the banquet. Suddenly a double door flew open, and a blaze of light burst unexpectedly upon the visitors from an adjoining hall into which the company were ush ered. This was the banqueting hall of the cavern, and exceeded by far the dimensions of the armory, arid was furnished with all the richness and gor- geousness of an Eastern Prince's seraglio. Upon the floor was spread a beautifully colored Brussels carpet of the finest texture. The ceiling was high and arched, and from it hung four large glass chandeliers, brilliantly illuminated, reflecting with dazzling splendor the innumerable particles ol glittering quartz and feldspar, like diamonds, studding irregularly the calcareous arch, and making resplendent the many transparent stalactites which sparkled in clusters from the high vaulted roof. The walls present ed a similar brilliancy, but unlike the bright gemmed canopy above the work of art and design were manifest. Jn the centre of this gorgeous room two tables, loaded with delicious edibles, and surrounded by soft-cushioned chairs, occupied nearly half of the apartment, and presented to the eyes of the hungry cavaliers a most gratifying spectacle. Plate of silver and gold of immense value furnished the table, but the want of uniformity in the patterns, indicated that it must have been collected from a great variety ot sources. Standing equi-distant around the tables were black servants, drea- sed in white, and for neatn -ss and efficiency would have honored any hotel on the continent. At a signal from Don Manuel the company seated themselves at the luxurious banquet, placing himself at a small table slight ly elevated, but connecting the two others, with Colonel Nunez beside him at his right hand. Mirth and joy reigned supreme among the entertainers and guests at this festive board ; and as the toast went round, and the song was sung, and the rich goblets of delicious wine were quafFed, peals of boisterous merri ments reverberated along the walls ot this subterraneous palace ; and among the whole company there was but one who did not feel all those happy sensations inspired by the jolly eod. This was Alvorade Nunez, and it was with difficulty that he could force a look of complacency into his noble countenance at the pleasant sallies of his chief entertainer. His whole manner, although unnoticed by Manrique, betrayed symptoms of displeap- ure and uneasiness. He saw before him the undoubted fruits of crime and even bloodshed, and a band of men too far steeped in guilt ever to reform. The light-heartedness and gaiety of such men struck him with astonish ment; and he wondered that their countenances did not wear the murderer* THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 13 demoniac smile rather than the apparent smile of conscious innocence, and like the hy?enu and wolf ever present a ferocious aspect. ' By Sed executive power, and now exercised his supremacy with a tyrant's will ; and with regret Nunez had beheld many of those who had at first strongly opposed him were now most strenuous in his support ; and among the number General Hernandez de Cascara, the father of his beloved Isabella. Could she too have changed? This was indeed possible for it now first flitted across his mind that his having been pro claimed a bandit rmghtbe a sufficient incitement for her to banish him from her heart. But he argued within himself how it was possible that Man- rique should have become acquainted with her, since he had become the most noted bandit in all Mexico, and surely would not dare to risk his head within the gates of the capital. As if to add new torment to his mind, the thought that Manrique was leagued with the minions of Santa Anna, per haps with the President himself, proved that visits to the capital, under these circumstances might have been made with impunity ; and from cer- 18 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. tain intimations which he had gathered from Manrique added fresh proof to his first suspicions and now carried conviction to his mind. 'Dare this treacherous bandit presume to aspire to the hand of Isabella de Cascara?' soliloquised he, inaudibly. * Heaven forbid ! that a being pos sessing the sweetness and virtue ot an angel, should ever become the wife of a ruthless brigand ! I also understand the true character of my fallen kinsman. I would have made an effort to rescue him from his degraded life but he has sunk too low. I now fully comprehend the despicable means by which he has become the possessor of untold wealth, and he no doubt pays heavy tribute to his master at the capital. This matter I am resolved to probe to the bottom ; but I must be circumspect and dissemble lest my motives be discovered.' Nunez once more sought his couch, and ere long he fell into a profound slumber, from which in a few hours he was awakened by a loud knocking against the door of his apartment. * Who comes ?' demanded Nunez. * Amigo ! Senor Manrique.' Nunez unbolted the door and admitted his host, who pleasantly saluted him : * Excuse me, cousin, for disturbing thee thus early. The morning is fine, and the pure air of Orizava will invigorate ;hee. Come, let us walk forth ere the sun climbs above the intervening peaks.' * Many thanks, Manrique. 1 will join you presently,' replied Nunez. * Meet me in the armory,' said the bandit chief as he retired. Nunez quickly attired himself, and placing a brace of pistols and a ma- haja in his girdle, rejoined Manrique, and accompanied him through the pal ace cave into the bright and beautiful world without. Un surpassingly lovely was the morning, and the grandeur, beauty and sublimity of the wide spread mountainous landscape, were heightened by the purity of the atmosphere, the stillness of the scene, and the serene rays of the sun just rising in glorious majesty from his golden bed, and tipping with gilded beams the many peaks of eternal snow, towering upward as if intended by the Supreme Architect for conic pillars to sustain the heaven ly arch ; while around and below the vallies and lesser mountains smiled with varied shades of green, blending harmoniously witli the clear blue at mosphere. The two chieftains pursued their way leisurely through a winding path which led them to the crown of the mound, which formed a massive rocky roof for the bandits gorgeous rendezvous. This eminence commanded a finer and more extended view of the sctnery than the square below, and drew from Alvorado expressions of wonder and delight as he gazed upon the vast picture before him. * Santa Maria ! A most lovely morning !' exclaimed Manrique. 1 1 never beheld a lovelier !' responded Nunez. THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 19 'Above all things,' resumed Manrique, 'I should like nn adventure this , morning, just by the way of whetting- my appetite for breakfast.' 4 This mountain abounds in game, I believe?' said Nunez, enquiringly. 'Oh yes! such as the wild boar, goat and antelope -but I never hunt such game,' replied Manrique taking a telescope, which was slung to his back, and bringing it up to his eye, looking eastward. 'By the aid of this instrument I am enabled to view many leagues of the principal road lead ing from Vera Cruz. But 1 perceive nothing look, perhaps your eyesight 'is keener than mine.' Nunez took the glass and held it to his eye for a few moments. 'The road seems clear, and yet methinks that that cloud of dust rising above the tall trees which obsc ire the road proceeds from the movements of a cara van of arrieros or a company of horsemen. In a few moments they will have passed the woods into the plain.' As Nunez had calculated, a caravan, though at the distance of three leagues, was seen to emerge slowly from the wood, and by the aid of the glass Don Manuel could discern a company of arrieros, with their beasts heavily burdened, and preceded by a small escort of cavaliers. In the rear of the escort, was a Mexican carriage, in which the bandit presumed rode the proprietor of the caravan. ' By San lago, cousin !' said Manrique, I doubt not there is wealth enough on those mules backs to raise and equip a force of one thousand men. That is the kind of game I delight in capturing. We shall have rare sport !' ' Surely, Manrique, ' you do not intend ' ' Si, cousin,' interrupted the bandit. ' Ere two hours have passed yon car avan shall be in my power. Pardon me, Nunez, I should have offered thee the honor of engaging the caravan escort. Come, you shall have the gol den opportunity of making thyself rich.' 'But, Manrique, it may be a private caravan some grandee travelling to wards the capital.' ' So much the better, cousin ! The government transports are exceeding ly small, now-a-days they are hardly worth plundering.' ' 1 positively decline the honor as you term it.' ' Seriously ?' 'Seriously! and intreat of thee, if you really intend what your words intimate, to forbear!' ' By San Francis, you plead in vain. Preach no more of thy morality to me. Since thuu wilt not let dame Fortune smile upon thee 1 must not dis regard her favors.' Thus saying they hurried down the path to the plain, where the brig ands had assembled for the purpose of displaying their equestrian feats to their cavalier guests. Manrique gave orders to his lieutenant, Garcilazo, to delect twenty-five men for the important expedition. The orders were promptly obeyed and the company of banditti, armed and equipped as on th,e evening previous, were prepared for duty. Manrique put himself at 20 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. the head of his eorps, and after inviting Nunez and his cavaliers to accom pany him a short distance where they might observe the attack, an invita tion which he eagerly accepted, the handitti proceeded through the thick forest towards the barranca, followed soon after by Nunez and his compa ny, who halted two hundred rods distant above the place where Manrique's force intended to lie in ambush. Nunez now despatched ten of his follow ers, headed by a trusty leader, to a point half a league beyond the ravine, and instructed them to proceed thither by a circuitous route in order that their movements might not be observed by any of the bandits, and there* to await further orders. Meanwhile the bandits are remaining inactive, awaiting the arrival of the caravan, we will notice the movements of a single horseman, attired as a mestizzo, who soon after followed the ten cavaliers of Nunez, though tak ing a wider circuit, and riding with greater speed. C nward he proceeded at the distance of nearly a league, when he emerged from the road directly in the rear of the escort, and riding up to the officer in command, re quested permission to speak with the proprietor of the caravan on business of vital importance. The request was granted, and the horseman halted until the carriage came up, which he saw contained a middle-aged gentle man, with a fine expressive countenance, and a young lady whose features were closely veiled, and thus addressed the former: 'Senor, I come to apprise you of danger robbers lie in your path re turn ere k be too late !' * Many thanks for the interest you manifest in my behalf, sir stranger,' re plied the gentleman. ' But I have heard so many rumors of robbers, dur ing our journey, and have proceeded so far unmolested, that I am in doubt as to there being any on the route.' ' Believe me, Senor,' said the horseman earnestly, * Not half a league from this, in a deep barranca, lies concealed a company of well armed and desperate brigands, who are apprised of your coming. Be assured if you proceed you will be attacked. 'I cannot now return,' replied the gentleman, 'but must pass the Orizava mountain ere nightfall. Why should 1 fear a band of robbers? J have an efficient escort ! ' Por d amor de Dios ." exclaimed the horseman, 'return, or lose your wealth, and endanger your life and that of the young lady with you. Trust riot to your half score of troops the brigands outnumber them two to one ; besides, government troops have been known to be treacherous !' ' 1 thank you for your advice, sir stranger, but cannot follow it !' ' Father,' said a sweet-toned voice from beneath the veil, which vibrated pleasingly upon the ear of the stranger, ' This caballero's words sound as if there were real danger in our path. Give heed to his advice let us re turn or halt until we can despatch a courier for an additional escort.' ' No, my child ! I am resolved to proceed on ! I should be hailed as a cow ard ever after should I return.' THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 21 1 God preserve you, Senor !' said the caballero, as he spurred bis horse into the dark forest. The caravan proceeded slowly on as before. The escort were ordered to prepare for an attack, which they did as well as a few old rusty carbines with mahajas to match would permit. * Father,' said the young lady who unveiled her features soon as the horseman departed, presenting a face of exceeding sweetness and beauty ; * knowest thou the caballero who expresses so much solicitude in our behalf? he wears the garb of a mestizzo, but methinks his noble bearing and cour teous speech proclaim him of higher rank.' ' He is unknown to me, rny child ; and I agree with thee in opinion that he is not what he seerneth. Perchance he is himself a brigand ! Had his address comported better with his costume I might have given more heed to his information.' 'Nay, nay, father, he was too sincere for us to entertain suspicion of his intention. I cannot doubt that he spake truth, and I must confess 1 have a presentiment of danger.' Maintain thy courage, daughter. The Brigands will not dare molest us and hazard an engagement with oar escort.' 1 But I fear, as the caballero intimated, they may prove treacherous. Such has often been the case.' 4 True, my child ! I grieve that our soldiery are not under more severe restrictions ; but lessen thy fears, they will not dare show treachery to an ofiicer of the state.' ' This then may be our only hope,' replied the grandee's daughter. The caravan had now passed the plain, and entered the thick woods. Near by were concealed the ten cavaliers whom Nunez had despatched from his corps ; farther on lie in ambush the bandits of Don Manuel ; and at a point still farther on, overlooking a portion of the barranca, stood the principal body of the cavaliers of Nunez ; while the single strange horse man had joined the ten cavaliers, all of whom were now appareled and equipped as mestizzoes. The cavalry, composing the escort, were allowed to pass the point where the robbers were hidden, in order first to attack the muleteers and drive their beasts with their precious burdens into the forest, and thus make sure of the booty. The bandits, headed by their chief, now spurred their steeds into the road, and by an adroit manoeuvre completely cut off the escort from the carriage and muleteers. The cavalry now faced about and were about to charge upon the bandits, when Don Manuel suddenly .displayed a small red flag, with the words, ' Viva el Libertador." inscribed upon it. This being perceived by the captain of the escort, he ordered his men again to face about, when they left the caravan and at a quick pace proceeded on towards the ascent to the mountain. This treacherous movement was noti ced by the strange horsemen who was now standing where he could over look the scenes in the ravine. 32 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. * Obiedos de Dion /' exclaimed he to the ten cavaliers. 'Vile traitoroim cowards ! They shall meet with their just reward ! Here, Enrique,' said he to a youth beside him. 'Take this clarion ride quickly through the forest until you pass the barranca. Give the signal of attack and as speed ily return !' The gallant youth spurred his steed arid quickly disappeared. Soon the sound of the clarion echoed through the forest! The cavaliers of Nunez, who were prepared for any emergency that might occur, suddenly blocked up the road, and arrested the flight of the escort ! A desperate and bloody conflict ensued and ere ten minutes had elapsed, the traitorous soldiers of the government, without a single exception, lie weltering in purple gore! We will now return to the caravan. The banditti had commenced their work of plunder the arrieros, terrified and dismayed, fled and secreted themselves in the forests, leaving their mules in possession of the banditti, Manrique, followed by Garcilazoand De Vega, now rode up to the carriage, and demanded the jewels and other valuables in possession of its occupant*. * Santa Madre de DIGS ! protect us !' exclaimed the young lady trembling with affright, as the bandits appeared. * One of the villains at least shall die !' said the grandee, as he discharged one of his pistols at the robbers. \)G Vega fell from his horse mortally wounded. 4 Jesus! Maria!' thou shalt be fearfully avenged !' ejaculated Manrique. as he saw his lieutenant fall. At this moment half a dozen other bandits rode up, when one of them fell from the second pistol shot of the grandee. 'Jesus! que Demonio! Seize the hoary-headed villain and drag him forth ! He must die ! Spare the life of the muchacha, arid bear her to the caye !' ordered Don Manuel. Four of the bandits grasped the grandee and in a brutal manner drew him forth from the carriage, while Garcilazo, from the opposite side lifted out the fainting maiden and bore her towards Manrique. The latter whiltt in the act of raising her to the saddle beside him, was struck down by n powerful blow from a horseman who suddenly darted into the road. Ere the bandits could revenge their fallen chief, ten other horsemen appeared, and a desperate combat ensued. The robbers dismayed by the loss of their leader,and the unexpected assault, soon were forced to fly, leaving tln> field and booty in possession ol the ten cavaliers and the brave stranger, whom we left at the beginning of the assault concealed in the forest near the road. The frightened muleteers now came forth and assisted in again getting the mules in motion with their heads turned toward the place from whence they had that morning set out. The grandee and his daughter werv assisted into the carriage, and the whole caravan, with the ten cavaliers ami the strange horseman acting as escort, soon arrived at the hacienda ot Don Antonio Floresco at the distance of two leagues from the barranca. Th* lady, who had now recovered from the effects of her affright, was handed THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 23 jrom the carnage by her strange protector, while the grandee was assisted out by the cavaliers. * Brave caballeros !' said the old gentleman, ' you have done us infinite service, and we owe thee more than our eternal gratitude ; and by San Lo renzo thou shalt have gold !' 1 No, Senor, we cannot accept thy gold,' replied the brave stranger. * We are amply compensated ty the satisfaction we have received in defeating the merciless villains.' ' Si, si,' responded the ten cavaliers. 'You will at least allow me to place upon your finger this token of our thankfulness,' said the young lady advancing, towards the stranger, and pla cing upon his finger a diamond of great brilliancy. * Wear it ever for the sake of the person whose life you have saved.' ' Allow rne to behold thy features, fair lady,' replied he, * that I may know how to prize this sparkling gem.' No, caballero ; seek not to know me,' said the lady. There was something mysterious and yet fascinating in the manner of the veiled daughter of the grandee, that operated like a charm upon the mind of him who had rescued her from out the robbers' hands. The tones of her voice fell upon his ear like sweetest music ; her every movement possessed an enchanting grace which quite captivated him ; and after the farewell had been spoken, and his steed was bearing him from her pres ence, his eye lingered upon her until she finally disappeared ! 24 THE RIVAL ClllEFTAINS. . CHAPTER IV. SINGULAR INTERVIEW OF THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. DEPARTURE FOR THE CAPITAL. A SLIGHT DETENTION. The sun had reached its meridian ere the Brigands, with their fallen lea der, had reached their rendezvous. Don Manrique, whom we left senseless in the barranca, soon after revived, and was borne to the cave on a rude lit ter which his comrades had constructed of green boughs cut from the for est trees. He was not dangerously wounded though weak from the less of blood. The force of Alvorado Nunez arrived in one hour afterwards with out the loss of a man, notwithstanding the severity of their engagement with the caravan escort. Nunez forthwith sought an interview with Don Manuel, and found him reclining upon a luxurious couch smoking a ci- garito. 'Ah! Manrique !' exclaimed Alvorado. 'I thought you were slain. I saw you fall !' * By San Francis ! it was a narrow escape, cousin. A half score of men, dressed like mestizzoes fell upon us, and dealt heavy blows about our heads ! else the caravan treasures would have now been in our possession !' * A lucky incident for the caravan !' remarked Nunez. * You speak truly !' returned Manrique. 'I would give the richest dia mond in my collection to know by whom we were so severely dealt with ! 1 Your force fared much better than the escort ?' 'Bj San lago! I believe not one among them is left to the tale !' replied Manrique, in a disturbed manner. 'I liked not your interference, after you had refused to attack the caravan.' *I war not with peaceful travellers!' said Nunez in a dignified manner 'but with the minions of the despot! I beheld their treachery and saw the pusillanimous villains fly ! They were my enemies and I cut them down I' * Well, well ! dtjarlo /let it pass ! We must henceforth be friends, Al vorado. Hast thou considered our proposition of last night ?' THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 25 'It required no consideration,' replied Nunez. 'I rejected the proposal at once. 1 can never consent to become more vile than 1 am !' 'Remember! our cause is lost irrecoverably lost!' 'No, Manrique ! I am assured that the despot's power is daily weaken ing, and that ere long his sway must cease!' 'Mentira! It is not true ! I was in the city of Mexico but five days ago. I there learned that Bustamente's generals had made peace with the Presi dent ! Moreover, the air was ringing with shouts of " Buen suceso, Santa Anna ! Viva Santa Anna !" ' * Santa Maria ! You surprise me !' replied Nunez. * What ! Sefior Man rique the Brigand Chieftain the terror of the valley of Mexico, visit the capital ? Come, come, this is a jest 1' * Truth, by San Francis ! I have friends there ! I go arid return at pleasure but always in disguise ! And go mayst thou, cousin, if thou wilt but heed my.advice. A chieftain who commands four score caballeros, like unto thine or mine, is held in no despisable estimation in these troublous times!' 'It cannot be possible that Don Manuel has ' Nunez checked his utterance of the severe thought that dwelt upon his mind. 'I can hard ly give credit to thy statement, lie continued. 'I should not dnre risk my head within a league of the despot's citadel ! Besides, I have nothing to entice me thither. My friends are banished and their estates confiscated, and until another revolution reinstates them in their former position I shall roam with my gallant cavaliers over the mountains and forests of Gautema- la arid Mexico !' ' Then be assured thou wilt never visit thy native city again !' replied Man rique. 'The President is acquiring popularity and power daily. Canst thou not think of some fair-cheeked, black-eyed Senorita, that occupies a share of your heart sufficiently large to attract thee thither.' ' My head would surely have to answer for such bold rashness !' 'Nay, nay, I will lead thee there in safety ; and I swear to thee thou shalt depart unmolested ; moreover, I will seek an opportunity to introduce thee to my affianced !' ' Indeed!' exclaimed Nunez, a gleam of apprehension darting from his expressive eye ; ' and who is this favored fair one ?' 'One whose wealth and loveliness surpasseth all the maidens : of the cap ital. She is the kija of a grandee, and her name is in the mouths of all the caballeros and lechuginos of Mexico!' The hand of Nunez instinctively sought the handle of his double-edged mahaja, though unnoticed by the bandit chief.' 'I am yet in the dark, Manrique,' said he. '1 would know her name !' 'Sefiorita de Cuscara ! la kermosa, la sin par the beautiful, the peerless.' The suspicions of Nunez in regard to Dona Isabella were now fully con firmed ; and it was with difficulty that he suppressed the rage whieh boiled 36 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. within Lira. His first impulse was to annihilate his detested rival upon the spot! but the time for vengeance hud not yet come ! He was now convinced that Manrique was also leagued with those high in authority perhaps, thought he, with Santa Anna himself and he resolved in his heart to haz ard all, and even life, in a full investigation of the matter.' 4 Methiuks Dona Isabella entertains great love for the romantic in con senting to become a Brigand's wife, and to exchange her father's palace for a robber's cave !' 4 You do her injustice,' replied the bandit. 'She knows Manrique only as a Spanish grandee! When she becomes mine, she "will reside in a Mexican palace with her loving lord, thy humble servant !' 4 You speak in riddles!' remarked Nunez. 'Nay, nay, cousin ! Thou art dull of comprehension. I perceive you do not understand me. I will speak more plainly. Know then, tjiat in con sideration of the utter hopelessness of our cause, and rather than be a ban dit all my days, I have made peace with Santa Anna,\vho is now my friend and my intercessor with the lady Isabella! Know, further, that I am com missioned by him to make overtures to thee ! Attach thyself and thy brave followers to his cause, and thy courage and talents wilt soon place thee high in his esteem, and honor arid wealth will be conferred upon thee. What says my cousin ?' ' Turn traitor, meanest thou ?' * Si, if thou canst give it no gentler name. It is now the only course leit our cause, I repeat, is inevitably lost!' * Supposing that I consent to listen to the terms, how shall I proceed ?' 4 Visit the President at the capital. I will accompany thee, and I warrant thou wilt receive friendly treatment.' 1 What assurance can I have for my safety, if I go to Mexico, and thrust my head into the tyrant's-den?' 4 Speak what thou requires!, and by St. lago, if within my power it shall be granted thee ?' * A generous offer,' replied Nunez, hesitating. *Be not modest, cousin; by my faith, say what thou wilt, and thy terms shall be acceded to.' * Put into rny possession this mountain castle, and your cavaliers under my officers, until my safe return, and I will proceed to Mexico with thee forthwith " ' By San Lorenzo, thou'rt not so modest as I could have wished !' said Manrique. * True ; but I would not have my head exposed in Plazuela de la Cebada, for all that the blessed sun shines upon !' ' Well, well, I accept thy terms. Tarry with us to-morrow, and on the next day I shall be prepared to depart!' Don Manrique now complaining of weakness, Alvorado retired to his THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 27 spartment, where he contemplated the strange events that had transpired during his sojourn with the Brigands of the Black Forest. He resolved to proceed to Mexico, under the conditions named, knowing that the posses sion of this strong-hold of the mountain was a sufficient guarantee lor the safety of his person ; and he doubted not that the perfidious confessions of ihe hand it chief were wholly true, for his owu observations had fully sub stantiated them. He now ordered his first lieutenant, Enrique Canazilla, a noble and handsome youth, scarcely twenty-one years of age, to his presence. To him was communicated, in whispers, the startling information he had ac quired; and during a long interview, their future course of action was mar ked out. Enriquez was invested with the command of the force, until his superior officer should return from the capital ; and every precaution wa* taken to guard against treachery and every other possible emergency. On the morning appointed for the departure of the Rival Chiefs for the City of Mexico, the two companies of cavaliers were paraded on the plain contiguous to the cavern. Their commanders came forth fully equipped, and mounted upon high-mettled chargers. Manrique now addressed his men, explaining his motives for surrendering temporarily his command, and instructed his men to obey the orders of Enrique Canazilla, whom hi guest had honored with this commission. The chiefs resolved to travel without escort, and after returning to the cave, where they disguised themselves, they set out for the capital, taking with them one attendant each. During the first day of their journeying no incident occurred worthy of note. On the second day they encountered a body of government cavaliers; the leader of whom commanded our trav ellers to half. * Quien vivc ?' ' Gentes de paz ." replied Manrique. * Que Gentes ?' 1 Jlmigos ! bound to the capital.' 4 Your passport!' demanded the leader fiercely, at the same moment cocking his pistol. At this peremptory summons Manrique pulled off his gauntlet, and dis played his little finger to the view of the officer, on which was encircled a signet ring. This movement caused the officer to replace his pistol in the holsters of the saddle, and raise his hand respectfully to his cap. ' Pass !' said he. Manrique answered the salutation of the officer and the parties separated. 4 We have had a narrow escape !' said Alvorado Nunez, soon as they had ^ THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. passed the troop. 'By what talisman, Manrique, were we prevented from immediate arrest?' ' liy one that may again serve thee, and of which thou shalt hereafter Know more of,' replied Manrique. * That was a detachment from Santa Anna's body guard ?' ' Si, Senor.' 'You seem possessed of privileges unusually allowed those who bear the stigma of outlaw arid brigand ?' 4 Si, coz I'm a favored one ! By San lago, thou shalt be so too!' The travellers continued moderately on their way towards the great cap ital, meanwhile conversing on mutters relative to the government, from which Nunez gathered much, developing the mystery which seemed to guide the course of Manrique. THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 29 CHAPTER V. THE CAPITAL. THE PROCESSION. GENEROUS CONDUCT or OUR HERO INE. THE PLAZUELA DE LA CEBADOS. THE YANKEE AND THE HOLY PADRE. ZEB SHORT VICTORIOUS. To Mexico magnificent Mexico the City of Palaces, as it may be cor rectly designated we now convey our readers in advance of the cavaliers whom we left journeying in our last chapter. Let us seek a commanding eminence the tower of the gigantic cathedral in the Plaza, Major where we can overlook the gorgeous magnificence that has arisen in place of the clay ruins of Tenochtitlan. To the eye of the stranger, all appears wonderful and splendid and co lossal. Behold the numberless churches, convents, and government edifices, with their white roofs glistening in the sunbeams, rising up in every direc tion : the broad and evenly-paved streets extending the whole length and breadth of the city, displaying an almost unbroken line of palaces, public buildings, and elegant mansions, erected in a style of architecture, which for graceful proportions and splendor of embellishments, might even chal lenge the Old World to point to an existing parallel. Mark, too, the gran deur and solidity of its details. Almost every building is constructed of porphry, or porus amygdaloid, with walls of extraordinary thickness, and foundations whieh nothing but a mighty convulsion of nature can shake. The facades are principally painted white, blue, crimson, green or red, and ornamented with designs, elaborately if not artistically sculptured ; while many are overlaid with stained porcelain tiles of exceeding richness. In the central part of the city, such is the multiplicity of churches, monasteries, and public edifices, rising above the general outline, that it is with difficul ty all can be designated ; presenting, combined, a mass of collossal domes and gilded spires towering in splendid relief against the bright blue sky, unsurpassed in any city of the orient. The interiors of the public edifices of Mexico, if possible, arc more strik- 30 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. ingly rich in appearance than their exteriors ; embellished a they are with paintings, statuary, gildings arid other features of display most lavishly be stowed. The churches in particular present a tinselled and gaudy show ; and in any other land where Catholicism prevails the good sense of its ad herents would even blush for the depraved taste of the padres of the church of Mexico ; but how great would be their envy to behold the enormous val ue of the gold and silver vases, shrines, and other consecrated vessels en trusted to their keeping. Such is a bird's-eye view of the architecture and general appearance of the city of Montezuma, and without further digression we will proceed with our tale. Contiguous to the Plaza Major, on the street Espiritu Santo, stands the magnificent palace of General Cascara, the wealthiest grandee of the capital, with its stained windows, carved balustrades and ornamented balconies, and surrounded by a spacious and luxuriant garden, containing an endless variety of the choicest shrubs and plants of Mexico, and rarest exotics from almost every other clime. The front balcony commands a view of the broad and palace-bordered street and the Great Square, and on all public occasions it usually presents an assemblage of the beauty and fashion of the metropolis. It was Holy-day week in Mexico, a period when the city is thronged with a multitude from the rallies and mountains for leagues around. The Great Square, on Holy-Thursday, ere the sun had illumined the gilt-cross of the cathedral, swarmed with myriads of human beings, of all grades and conditions. Trafficking, sporting, gambling and quarrelling occupied the attention of the greater number, while the remainder stood lazily by watch ing the scene, and occasionally casting an impatient look through the street Espiritu Santo. As the day advanced the multitude thickened, arid the hubbub and confusion momentarily increased. At length from the farther end of the street alluded to, a procession was descried approaching the square, and clamorous shouts followed the announcement. The various occupations were Suddenly discontinued, and all eyes were turned towards the moving spectacle, which had a moment before issued from the court of the Acordada,) or principal prison of Mexico, on its way to Plazuda de la Cebada, the place of execution. Slowly the procession moved up the street and through the Great square, amid the almost deafening exultations of the promiscuous assemblage. The prisoner, who wqp a young American, had been captured near Santa Fe, and without any apparent cause other than the vending of Yankee knick-knacks, was condemned to suffer death by the garotte. The prisoner, bare-headed, with red locks streaming over his shoulders, walked bare-footed in the centre of a detachment, who goaded him on with their bayonets, while he gave them in return looks of defiance and contempt. As they passed the noble Cascara's palace, the front balcony of which THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 31 was filled witk ladies, and among them shone most conspicuously Doila I- abella, the condemned turned his fyes imploringly towards the balcony, and encountered the pitiful gaze of this beautiful lady. 'Father,' said Isabella, to a middle-aged gentleman who was watching the procession from the casement ; ' that man deserves not death !' * You speak confidently, my child,' answered Don Antonio Cascara. ' Can Santa Anna condemn ere a man's guilt be proven ?' ' Of that I dare not judge,' resumed Isabella ; ' but there is a certain some thing in the strange prisoner's countenance, which assures me he would not commit a deed deserving capital punishment. Have you not sufficient influence to save him ?* ' No, child, he is sentenced to die and the President seldom revokes his will.' The conversation was here interrupted by a new object of attraction, and cries of ' Viva el^Liberta dor ! Viva Santa Jlnna ;!' filled the air as a cavalcade halted at the gate of Cascara's palace. It consisted of the President, and his six Aids-de-camp, arrayed in their gorgeous military dresses, arid moun ted upon their superb and richly-caparisoned chargers. The gates were thrown open and they entered the court, where the illustrious visitor and retinue were received by the grandee who escorted them to the grand sa loon. Dona Isabella now entered and with a supplicating smile resting upon her lovely features, approached the President, who received her most gracious*- iy. * Quihcrmosa! how lovely!' said the President as he kissed her hand. * The morning is indeed lovely!' replied Isabella, 'but its loveliness is marred by yon mournful spectacle !' * Ay, Senorita ! You refer to the execution of that rattle-pated Yankee nwanjo V 'Si, Senor!' 'The calavera may feel thankful that I have appointed so pleasant a day ior his execution !' ' Nay, nay, your Excellency would not condemn the innocent ?' ' Que, vaya en hora mara ! Is he not a Yankee ?' ejaculated Santa Anna. ' The fair Isabella would not plead for the life of a Yankee ?' 'I would ever plead for the lives of the innocent?' replied Isabella indig nantly. ' Did not his countrymen once spare thy life ?' 'Be not so severe, fair Senorita. It is now too late. The Yankee must die!' ' For the love of God !' exclaimed Isabella, imploringly, ' spare his life J "For my sake for thine ! It is not yet too late !' Thus saying the fair pleader seized his hand, and drew from hia finger a ring, on which were engraved the armorial bearings of the President. ' Gracias ! graclas /' cried she, as she hastened from the room. 33 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 'Such beauty would move the heart ol a tyrant!' muttered Santa Amm. lu another moment Dona Isabella was in a carnage which was driven with all possible speed towards the place of execution. During the brief interview of Santa Anna and the beauteous Senorita, preparations were in progress for the execution. The procession had ar rived and the obstinate American, after considerable difficulty, was forced to mount the scaffold, where a Padre of the church awaited to hear his con fession, and the executioner stood in readiness to perform the sanguinary duties of his office. ' Laus Deo /' said the Priest, approaching the prisoner. 1 How are you?' replied the Yankee. 'I calculate I never saw your face afore ! Now what mought your name be ?' 'Sante padre de Francisco !' replied the priest. 'Wall, that is rayther a long one; now my name is 2eb Short, rather shorter than yours, Mister Santer Parderdy Sarn Francisco ! That's a fine piece o' silk, your gown is made on I reckon that cost at least live-and-six a yard, and no ' thumbin'gs.' Now I should jest like ter hear your business with me. If it's to buy a n"r*t rate time-keeper, why it's no use talkiu', coz you see the dirty-llrced soger-thieves, not only stole all the clocks but they stole all the other knick-knacks, including myselfl' ' Sanle Madre de Dieu? exclaimed the priest raising both hands in pious horror. * It's jest as true as the book of ?Iaccabees, Mister Francisco, whether you believe it or not, so ye needn't look so tarnation suspicious. I wouldn't lie to you any quicker than I would to that are hang-dog cut-throat looking chap standing by that machine ! But it's no use to talk, I can't trade with you not till I send off to the land of steady habits for another lot o' real 'eight dayers,' and no mistake.' ' Jesus ! que Demonio ! You have but a few moments to live ! I come to pray with you !' 'Oh! you're the parson, ain't you ?' resumed the Yankee. 'Wall now^ that alters the case. 'Fore I hear any o' your prayers, I should jest like ter know what denomination you belong to ?' 'To the only true church !' answered the priest. 'That's what I call dodging the question. What "platform" do you stand upon ?' inquired the Yankee. l Dios de Cielo ! Are you not aware that we stand upon a scaffold, and at the portal of death ?' asked the priest, misapprehending the word ' plat form.' ' Another dodger, by the great horn spoons ! Now, Mister Parson Fran cisco, I stand on the raal Simon Pure Calvinistic platform. If you're one o' that stamp, why I'll hear what you have to say.' ' Santa Padre ,' commenced the priest assuming a prayerful attitude. Hold on a bit,' interrupted Zebediah, looking grave. ' I should jest like THE HIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 33 tu know, Mister Parson, before you proceed any farther, * if all this ere show- means any thing ; coz I kinder reckon they've brought me up here jest ter see whether I had any grit or riot !' * In ten minutes you'll be in the bottomless pit !' exclaimed the priest an grily. ' I don't wish ter contradict the parson of this ere parish, but that'll de pend pretty much on the carcumstances of the case. If they've brought me here 'lore all these ere ragamuffins thinking to frighten me, why I shall be as cool as a cowcumber, and as unconsarned as a skeer-crow in a corn field. I'm not to be skeered by a rigiment of sich cut-throat looking vaga bonds ! But if they're in raal aruest arid mean to murder me, my dander will rise to sich a pitch that I'll lick the hull boodle on 'em, the cap'in inclu ded. They'll find a Yankee's life is worth jest about as much as the hull lot!' * What a devil! He is past redemption !' muttered the priest as he de scended from the scaffold. * Good bye, Mister Francisco !' returned Zebediah. 'Picaro villain thy time has arrived !' said the executioner, sternly, as he pointed towards the Mexican guillotine. * What sort o' machine do you call that?' asked Zeb. 'It don't look much like a Connecticut invention. 'The garotte !' replied the executioner. ' Wall, 1 guess 1 never seed one afore in the hull course of my life. I'd jest like to understand the principles and operation of that are machine. It's rayther a curious invention, but I'll lay a small wager a wooden clock'll beat it all holler.' * Come ! prepare thyself!' 'I'm prepared for any kind o' trade you'd like to make, from a two cent whistle to an ' eight-dayer !' What'll you take for that are gun o' yourn ? It's rayther stubbeder than a Connecticut 4th July swivel! 1 reckon it ain't much at a good Turkey-shot distance. I've got a rifle at hum that'll take the quirl from a pig's tail every shot !' ' Villain !' exclaimed the executioner, as he seized the Yankee by the col lar and endeavored to affix the deadly instrument about his neck. 'Hands off!' said Zebediah, at the same time seizing him by the throat and tripping up his heels, which movement laid the executioner flat upon his back. ' Now I see that you .are in arnest and do mean to murder me, may I be eaten up by maggits if I don't make crow's meat of some on ye ! continued he as the guard rushed upon the scaffold. Zebediah had seized the executioner's carbine by the barrel, and now stood in a fearful attitude with the butt-end of it over his head, causing the guard to halt a few paces before him. ' Come on if ye've got any grit in ye, and I'll show ye how Samson killed 34 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. the Philistines with the jaw-bone of n jackass ; and how the Yankees licked die British at Bunker-Hill without powder or hall ; and how Davy Crock ett slew nn army of jist sich good-for-nothing cowardly cut-throats as VOM with nothing but a crazy old training musket w ' ut any lock ! Oh, yt: needn't stare so! It's true ! and I can dew the same thing tew. If you eome one single step furder,TlJ let the daylight into some o' yer cocoamits T The executioner had now regained his feet, and made a second attempt, wkh the assistance of the guard, to secure the prisoner; in this they iucceeded. hut not until he had knocked down with the breech of his gun three or four of the assailants. In one moment longer, the valiant Yankee would have heen no more, had not the executioner's arm been arrested bv a female who appeared suddenly upon the scaffold. She held up her fore finger to his view it operated like a talisman Zeb Short was free ! THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 35 CHAPTER VI. THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS IN MEXICO. VISIT TO SANTA ANNA. PRIVATE INTERVIEW. A VALUABLE GIFT. Among the spectators of the singular scene in the Plazuda de la Cebados were Don Alvorado Nunez and Don Manuel Manrique, who had that ing arrived at the capital. As they were riding towards their quarteis, they encountered a portion of the turbulent populace moving towards the Place of Execution, and thitherward they reined their steeds. 'By San lago, Alvorado,' said Don Manuel, as they entered the square; * some unfortunate devil dies to day! See, the garotte is prepared, and there stands a holy father and an executioner cheek by jowl ! and beneath them the gaping, beggarly scum of the metropolis !' ' Another victim to the tyranny of the despot, I dare be sworn!' replied Don Alvorado. 4 Speak not so loud, we may be overheard. Treason must not be spoken openly in the streets of Mexico.' 1 Call you that treason, Manrique? Methinks this must be an inquisitorial age, and that we live under an absolute monarchy, instead of a Republican form of government, where power is derived from the people!' ' Be silent, cousin, 1 intreat thee! Santa Anna, like Dionysius, hears all that can be construed into treason! But see, the procession comes. The condemned looks not like a Mexican nor a Spaniard nor a Frenchman. He's an American !' *Ou rny life, then, a true Republican !' added Nunez, enthusiastically. 'Santa Anna hates America and her liberty-loving people!' * You must use more discretion, Alvorado, or I cannot ensure thy safety, replied Don Manuel, angrily. 4 Not so, Manrique ! I'll stake my life that the American is innocent of any crime whatsover. Mark his countenance! Is not honesty strongly depicted there ? and by my faith, courage, too ?' * By San Lorenzo ! he takes it coolly !' said Manriqne. * He looks upon the scene as complacently as if it were a wedding, ai d be the happiest of bridegrooms? See the indifferent smile he bestows oc< asio; ally upon his guard. They have halted he ascends the scaffold reluctantly the soldiers spur him up! The priest speaks to him. By my soul, I believe he jests 3 86 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. with the holy padre ! The executioner points to the deadly instrument. He is now talking to him. Well, that is decidedly the most deliberate spec imen of coolness I ever witnessed. Once in the executioner's hands his neck will break in a brinco ! Dios de Cielo ! he seems determined to fight. Sure enough, there's a tumult! Que Demonio!' While Manrique was giving utterance to these expressions, Don Alvora- do's gnze was following the movements of a lady, who had a moment pre viously passed by him in a carriage, and who seemed to scrutinize his fea tures with intense interest as she moved along. He could see nothing but her eyes, for her other features were concealed beneath a veil ; but there was a certain indescribable expression in those dark lustrous orbs that con vinced him he was recognized, notwithstanding the precaution he had taken to disguise himself. To his utter amazement he saw her alight from the carriage and make her way through the wretched mass to the scaffold. She had reached the steps ere she was observed by his companions. * Santa Maria !' exclaimed Don Manuel. Look! a lady appears upon the scaifold! That dignified figure that step surely I cannot err ! It is Dona Isabella de Cascara !' ' W'hat can have brought the lady Isabella hither ?' * She holds her finger towards the executioner !' 1 Si, si, he is pardoned! Laus Deo !' exclaimed Don Alvorado, rapturous ly. * An angel of love upon an errand of mercy !' The disappointed crowd were now dispersing, while the disguised cava liers watched intently the movements of Dona Isabella. She descended from the scaffold followed by the courageous Yankee, who was meanwhile lavishing his thanks upon her for her intercession, and complimenting in his crude manner her wondrous beauty. Before she seated herself in the carriage, she gave hirn her father's address, and bade him repair to the pal ace forthwith. Again she rode by the disguised cavaliers, and more intently than before gazed upon Senor Nunez, which circumstance did not this time escape the notice of Don Manuel. At length the Plazuela was nearly deserted, and our cavaliers took their way towards the Gran Sociedad, at the corner of the two principal streets, Espiritu Santo and del Refugio, where each secured a suite of private apart ments. Manrique proposed to Nunez an immediate visit to the president, and after apparelling themselves in a suitable manner, a carriage was or dered and they proceeded together towards the palace of the supreme Ex ecutive of the Republic. On their arrival Don Manuel, in an authoritative tone demanded admission to the reception-room, which was quickly grant ed on his displaying the ring upon fore-finger. His Excellency Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, surrounded by his six Aid-de-camps and other official dignitaries, all arrayed in their splendid military uniforms, was seated under a canopy of crimson velvet, ornament- THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 37 I ed with gold and silver, awaiting the entrance of the cavaliers who were announced. Don Manuel first entered and saluted the President. * Welcome, Sefior !' said Santa Anna, rising. ' You have arrived in good time. ' Many thanks!' replied Manrique. 'I crave a private audience with your Excellency. * At your service, Senor,' replied the president ; and waving his hand to the officers in attendance they retired from the apartment. 1 The gallant Colonel Nunez, whom you have long desired to meet, I have at length prevailed upon to visit your Excellency,' said Manrique. He is yet an enemy of thine, but I have a strong hope that he may be induced to enlist in thy service.' ' Bid thy friend' approach. The zeal and faithfulness which you manifest an our behalf shall not pass unrewarded.' The bandit chief now summoned Nunez from the ante-room, who ap proached the president, and was received by him with that winning smile which he is capable of forcing into his countenance whenever it is required. ' Of all men in Mexico I have most desired thy acquaintance and friend ship,' said he. 'Your Excellency does me much honor !' replied Don Alvorado. 'We have long been political enemies, Seiior Nunez ?' said Santa Anna, enquiringly. * Si, your Excellency.' ^, * I trust the time is not far distant when we may meet as friends? I Your Excellency is condescending. I desire peace with all mankind.' I 1 have heard much of thy gallant behavior in Gautemala ; and have learned that thy cavaliers are brave and well disciplined.' 'I can bear testimony to. the truth of what you have heard,' remarked the bandit. ' They are, indeed, gallant fellows ; and in the maintenance of the defence and safety and tranquility of the Republic, they would prove more efficient than ten times their number of any cavalry in Mexico.' ' I doubt it not, Senor,' replied the President. ' Colonel Nunez, I desire to enlist thyself and force in the cause of the Republic. You have but to name the conditions and our compact shall be forthwith executed. * I am not prepared at this time to make a proposal.' ' Believe me, thou shalt fare well at our hands. I promise to restore to thee the confiscated estates which thy deceased father once held; one hun dred takgas in silver ; a high rank in our army, and any other favor within my official capacity to grant.' c Your Excellency is, indeed, lavish of his gifts. I beg leave, however, a few days to consider the matter, and communicate with my subordinates.' ' I grant thee ten days !' resumed the President. ' If at the expiration of that period my proposal is accepted, report thyself at the palace. If how ever it is rejected, I give thee ten hours longer to leave the capital, and five 38 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. days to leave the Republic ! Take this ring,' continued he, ' it is my signet it will serve thee until the time shall have expired.' *I thauk thee. Thy exceedingly generous proposal shall have its due weight,' replied Nunez. ' Buenas tardes, Excellentisimo Senor,' added hJ 42 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. overs it seemed but momentary. They now proceeded to the palace, and entered the audience apartment of General Cascura, where they found him alone. Isabella presented Alvorado to her father, who though evident ly surprised upon hearing his name, received him courteously. 1 General Cascarn ! Can it be possible ?' ejaculated Nunez, startled at the resemblance he bore to the individual whom he had succored in the har- ranca of the Black Forest. 'Buena venida!' said the General. Pray be seated I knew thy father well he wns a brave and good man ; and I have heard much to commend of thee. Were a price not set upon thy head 1 should be better pleased to see thee now, for 1 fear much for thy safety.' * For ten days at least I am secure from arrest!' remarked Alvorado. 4 What security ?' asked Cascara. 4 The signet of the President?' answered Alvorado, as he displayed the fore-finger of his right hand. Cascara shook his head, as if doubting the virtue of the jewel. 4 Ah ! what do I see ?' he exclaimed in a startled manner. ' Excuse me,* continued he, as he withdrew his eyes from a diamond that sparkled be side the signet. * Mistaken in what, dear father ?' asked the Sefiorita, eagerly. ' I ask thy pardon, caballero,' said the grandee, * 1 was struck by the bril liancy of a diamond ring upon your finger.' 'Santa Maria!' ejaculated Isabella ; how much it resembles the one that I gave to the gallant ' * Please examine it !' interrupted Nunez, handing the ring to Isabella. 'It ""was presented me by a lady whom I had rendered a trifling service.' 'And that lady was ' * To me a perfect strange?,' added Nunez. ' She would not unveil her features therefore I was deprived the pleasure of knowing from whom I teceived the precious gem.' It is the same, dear lather!' cried Isabella, as she again placed the ring upon his finger. * It was, indeed, Alvorado Nunez who saved our lives and our treasures !' 'Is it possible, that we have met unbeknown to each other, Isabella ? True it must be so when I first entered the room, 1 was struck with the resemblance your father bore to one whom I had encountered some where in a scene of danger !' 'Blessings be upon thee, brave youth !' exclaimed the grandee. 'But for thy timely succor we should inevitably have perished! Never shall I for get that dark ravine that awful scene of peril ! Oftentimes have 1 repent ed that I did not take thy word and advice. We owe thee more than our eternal gratitude ! Speak but thy wishes and by our holy faith if within my power they shall be gratified !' 'Thanks, noble Cascara!' replied Alvorado. ' I have now but one favor to ask.' THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 43 1 Name it !' 'Pledge me thy word'that Don Manuel Manrique shall never have thy consent to wed the Senorita de Cascara!' ' 1 do promise 1' said the grandee, taking Alvorado's hand ; 'and may the vengeance of a just deity be upon me whenever I revoke the pledge!' 4 Enough! I am satisfied!' replied Nunez. ' Father, you have made me happy !' said Isabella, as she threw her arms about his neck and kissed his wrinkled brow. * Twice,' at length said the grandee, 'have I been attacked near the Star- Mountain. I trust that the day is net far distant when a traveller may pur sue his way through any part of Mexico .without apprehending danger at every step.' ' Amen !' responded Nunez. ' But I fear such a state of things will not exist in our day and generation.' i It was near the Star-Mountain, father, that my mother was robbed ot a tiara of beautiful diamonds, 'remarked the Sefiorita. 'Indeed !' exclaimed Nunez, for he remembered the precious jewel that Manrique had shown him. * Know you the leader of the robbers who attacked us?' enquired the grandee. ' Si, Senor, I know him well ! and he shall yet be known to thee ! Suffice it now to say that he is under the protection of the President ; and I have good cause to believe that in consideration thereof, he pays his master trib ute at the government palace!' 'By my faith, thy words astound me !' exclaimed the grandee ; 'and yet I feel their truth. The treachery of the government troops "who acted as my escort perhaps can now be accounted for. It is yet a mystery what has be come of them they have not reported themselves at the citadel, nor has one of their number ever baen heard from !' 'And never will, be assured! They were cut in pieces in ten minutes after their perfidy by my orders. Not one escaped!' ' Dios de Cielo! A just punishment. Henceforth, Alvorado Nunez, ac count me a foe to the existing powers of Mexico! I'll no longer be duped by the cunning persuasiveness of the despot!' ' Give me thy hand, General !' said Nunez, warmly. 'The day is not far distant when the chains which now bind Mexico to the dust slmll he rent in twain ! Let us arise iiTbur might and hurl the tyrant from the high and responsible station which he has usurped.' Isabella now bade her father and lover good night, and retired. Long after midnight did Cascara and Nunez commune together upon the noble cause of freeing their country from the sway of the despot. It was on this occasion that the grandee sanctioned the loves of Alvora do and Isabella, and promised that their nuptials should be celebrated soon as the contemplated revolution should be effected. As Nunez was leaving the court of the palace, he heard the rustling of 44 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. leaves proceeding from a clump of bushes almost directly in his path. In stantly he drew his rapier, and as he passed the point which drew his atten tion, a figure, enveloped in a cloak, sprung upon him and endeavored to plunge a stiletto into his bosom. Nunez arrested the assassin's hand, and with a single stroke of his rapier, severed the fingers which held the stillet- to from the hand, and they dropped to the earth ! The assassin uttered an unearthly yell, and with a rush bounded from the garden ! Nunez gather ed up the amputated fingers and stiletto, and placing them in his handker chief, he continued his way and reached his apartments without being again molested. Judge of the surprise of Nunez, .when, on examining the contents of his handkerchief, he found upon one of the fingers, a ring corresponding with the signet he had received from Santa Anna! and he doubted not that the assassin was none other than the Bandit Chief! THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 4a CHAPTER VIII. MANRIQUE SWEARS THE DESTRUCTION OF CASCARA AND NUNEZ. INTER VIEW WITH SANTA ANNA. THE PLOT TO SEIZE THE MOUNTAIN CAS TLE. NUNEZ ARRESTED. THE COUNTERPLOT. EFFICIENT ACTION OF ZEE SHORT. His BOLD ADVENTURES. THE SIEGE. DEFEAT OF THE ASSAILANTS. To account for the singular attempt at assassination mentioned in the conclusion of the previous chapter, the reader will recollect that Manrique was at the palace in the early part of the evening ; and it being known to him that Isabella was in the garden, he strongly suspected that she was holding * sweet communion' with a rival, and he at once resolved to know who the favored one was. Leaving the palace much earlier than usual, he concealed himself near by a path which he knew they must pass. Soon the lovers appeared, and to his surprise he saw the beauteous Isabella lean ing fondly upon the arm of Alvorado Nunez. Jealousy and rage now kin dled in his bosom, and he vowed within himself to seek a fearful vengeance ere he slept. Hastening to his lodgings he disguised himself, and returned to the garden. Stealthily he entered the palace, and sought concealment behind the heavy drapery of a window in an ante-room adjoining the apart ment where the grandee, his daughter and Nunez were seated, and here the startling developments of their interview fell like molten lead upon his heart. On hearing Nunez arise to depart, he hastened out before him and again concealed himself among the garden shrubbery. What followed is already known to the reader. Early on the morning subsequent to the intended murder, Manrique arose from his couch where he had spent an hour or two of feverish restlessness, and ordering a carriage, drove to the house of a surgeon, where he un bound his mutilated hand and displayed it to the surgeon. Two fingers from the right hand were gone, and a third hung by the tendons. The wounds were dressed, and the excruciating pain being somewhat assauged, he forthwith repaired to a hotel in a secluded part of the city, where he remained until he had recovered from the debility which the loss of blood and sleep had caused him. Here ha had an opportunity to contemplate the events of the few past 4G THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. days and their probable consequences, and to originate plans for his future guidance. 4 By heavens an awful retribution awaits them !' muttered he with clench ed teeth, as he paced the floor. 'Yes! it must be so ! To Santa Anna will I reveal all! Nunez shall be taken care of first! and then the hoarv-head- ed old villain shall be thrust into the Acordada ! Once there his daughter's hand shall be the price of his release ! If he refuse, the garotte ! the exe cutioner ! shall bend him to my will! He has pledged his daughter to Nu nez! Ha! ha! iny gallant kinsman ?nust die ! But how to regain posses sion of my mountain castle ? I have it!' continued heat length. 'I must prevail upon the President for a detachment of troops to surprise it: and to make the attack doubly sure, I will despatch a trusty messenger to Garcila- zo, who will cooperate with the government troops on their arrival. Yes, the plan is feasible, and 1 will forthwith repair to the palace, and lay the subject before the President.' Saying this, the Bandit Chief, with his mutilated hand resting in a sling, issued into the street and bent his steps towards the government palace on foot. He gained access to the President immediately on his arrival, and requesting a private interview they retired into a small apartment. ' I have astounding intelligence for your ears!' said Manrique as they seated themselves. ' Know ye, that General Cascara's escort was cut to pieces by order of Alvorado Nunez !' 'Ha! How's this? Did not you introduce him to our presence?' de manded Santa Anna. ' I did, your Excellency ; but it was ere I had heard this startling intelli gence. Ii was during an interview with General Cascara that he confessed it in my hearing.' ' Knew you not of this before ?' enquired Santa Anna in a tone of doubt and suspicion. ' No ! your Excellency !' replied Manrique, firmly. ' I afterwards charged Nunez with the deed he denied it whereupon, a quarrel ensued, and I suffered the loss of two fingers from my sword-hand in the encounter ! Here is the proof!' added he, displaying his wounded hand. ' Enough ! I am convinced ! 1 will issue an order for his immediate ar rest, and revoke the protection I gave him !' 'I have other important intelligence to communicate!' said Manrique. 'I am all attention, good Senor Manrique. I pray thee, proceed.' ' Genernl Antonio de Cascara is thine enemy ! He seeks thy overthrow f ' Ha ! Cascara a traitor ?' ejaculated Santa Anna. ' By San Diego. I have already entertained suspicions of him ! How learned you this?' 'l5n entering his palace, late at night, I heard the voices of the grandee and Nunez. I stopped and listened, and heard them swear thy overthrow ! They branded thee with the epithets of tyrant, despot, usurper and robber!' ' Ha ! said they so ! My vengeance shall surely overtake them !' and San ta Anna rung for his private Secretary, who was ordered to execute a war- THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 47 rant for the arrest of Alvorado Nunez. 'Ere to-morrow's sun hath set, Cascara shall follow him: Thus shall be the fate of all who oppose me !' jfaanrique now related to the President the present situation of his moun tain retreat, and requested a detachment of troops to aid him in surprising it. This request was readily granted, and Manrique appointed the next day for his expedition to the Black Forest. He now left the President and sought out a noted bandit, who had formerly been in his service. To him he entrusted the care of secret despatches to Garcilazo, and bade him has ten to the cave with all possible speed. The task was undertaken, and ere nightfall of the next day the courier was spurring his steed far away from the gates of the city, while Manrique with a detachment of fifty well-mount ed cavaliers followed slowly in the same direction. We will now return to our brave chieftain, Alvorado Nurez. On the evening preceding Manrique's setting out for the Black Forest, he was re pairing to the abode of his beloved Isabella, when, just as he was entering the court, a file of armed soldiery marched up and arrested him, and after securing him by chains, bore him away to the Acordada. In vain he pro tested against this outrage, and demanded his release by virtue of Santa Anna's signet, but the bauble availed him nothing, and indignantly he tore it from, his fiuger and crushed it beneath his feet ! He was cast into one of the low filthy dungeons of the Acordada! But he' did not despair! The love and constancy of his adored Isabella, was enough to sustain his stout heart even within the filthy and gloomy walls of the Bastile of Mexico. Alvorado's arrest was viewed from the balcony of the palace by Senor d Cascara and his daughter. When she beheld him she so ardently loved in the power of the prison soldiers, she uttered a piercing scream and, faint- ingly, sunk into her father's arms. Servants were summoned and restora tives ordered, and by proper treatment, she in a short time recovered. ' Father !' cried she, soon as she could give utterance to her thoughts ; ' What is to be done ? Cannot Alvorado be freed ?' ' Be calm, my child ! I fear my influence with Santa Anna will not save him I And Heaven only knows how soon I may have to follow Nunez !' ' God forbid ! that the guiltless shall suffer, and the guilty go unpunished !* 'They shan't touch a hair on his head 1' said Zeb Short, who was a wit ness of the scene from the garden, and had now hastened to the balcony. 'Jest leave the hull bizness to me, and if 1 don't manage it 'cordin' to the rules o' gunter, 1 hope never to see the stars and stripes and Nance Butter cup agin in the hull course o' rny life.' ' By rny faith, the American speaks sanguinely,' said the grandee; 'and there is so much cunnyig. in his honest face, that 1 have much confidence in his words.' ' '. 'Jest say the word, General, and I'm off to that infarnal prison like a freak o' greased lightning !' BftHiCfOIt Libf**? 'Take this sigtKt,' said Isabella, placing the ring she had received from Santa Anna on the Yankee. It may assist thee !' . 48 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS ' Thank ye, Miss Isabel,' replied Zeb. * I wonder what Nance would say could she see this pure gol'd ring on my little finger? I reckon she'd be a leetie jealous if she knew who gin it me ! Wall, General, and Miss Isabel, good bye. When you see this ere child agin, you'll hear good news, de pend on't !' * You understand the virtue of that ring?' said Isabella, enquiringly. * Wall I guess I do! I reckon it once saved my neck from a twisting.' Saying this, the Yankee disappeared, and with a nimble gait pursued his way towards the prison, in which Nunez was confined. Arriving at the portal he demanded, pompously, in the name ol the President, admittance to the cell of Alvorado, at the same time displaying the signet. His author itative manner, together with the ring, had the desired effect, arid bolts and bars and locks yielded before him, and he stood in the presence of hir^ hi sought. Nunez instantly recognised the Yankee, and knew [him to be a messenger sent from the Senorita. ' How d'ye do !' said the Yankee. ' I've come to set ye free! Jest you slip on these ere trousers, this ere coat, and this ere hat, and this red wig, jest the color o' my own hair, and you'll pass by the guard for Zeb Short jest as easy as I could dew it myself.' And Zeb commenced divesting him self of an extra suit which he had put on over his usual dress for this par ticular occasion before he left the palace. ' What means this ?' demanded Alvorado. 1 Jump yourself into this Sunday-go-to meeting dress o' mine and make tracks for the palace the gal's e'en a most dying to see you.' * What is to become of you ?' * Zeb Short has wit enough to take care o' himself. I've seen the inside of this tarnal lock-up afore ! Come, fly round, there's no time to lose !' * No, my good fellow, I will not save my life at the expense of another's,' replied Nunez. 'But it you are disposed to do me a favor in another and less hazardous way, you shall be well paid.' 'Name it I'm up to any thing to serve you and Miss Isabel.' 4 It is to leave the city to-morrow morning, mounted upon a fleet steed, with secret despatches for my lieutenant, who is quartered with my force in a cave of the Orizava mountain.' Til dew it!' replied Zeb, promptly. 'Jest point out the road, and oth er particulars, and fore the first streak o' day I'll be off.' Nunez prepared hit despatches, and gave the Yankee minute instructions in order to enable him to find the cave. Zeb now took his departure, and ere he slept that night his arrangements for the journey were completed. According to his promise, the next morning, mounted upon Alvorudo's steed, the Yankee passed the gates of the city without molestation, le foive (!' the citadel acted as escort to the noblo prisoners. Side by {siile walked the veteran Cascara. and the youthful Nunez! and in their rear the holy lathers of the monastery of San Francisco. On nrrivin;. 1 at the Place of Execution, the prisoners ascended the scaffold with u firm step! The priests had commenced the last duties of their office, when they were interrupted by the piercing screams of a female who suddenly appeared up on the scaffold, arrayed in a pure garb of white, with her dark glossy hair straying wildly over her neck and shoulders. It was Isabella do Cascara! This was tiie second time the multitude had beheld her upon that scaffold! Firmly did she cling about her father's neck, uttering wild and despairing shrieks ! Vainly did the executioner attempt to separate them ! Meanwhile miirniurings from the populace, excited by sympathetic emotions, were distinctly heard. At length, through the aid of several of the guard, the daughter by force was dragged fom her father's embrace ! She uttered a 'heart-rending groan and fell, faintingly, upon the scaffold ! The fatal machine was in readiness! The holy fathers were taking their final leave of the prisoners ! All for a moment changed into a death-like stillness! when suddenly a large body of horsemen rushed into the square, and charged through the large force of armed soldiery which guarded the scaffold, filling the air with clamorous shouts of 'To the rescue ! To the rescue! Viva Cascara! Viva Nunez! Down with Santa Anna! Death to the usurper !' It was but the work of a moment! The guards were beaten down! The prisoners rescued ! Two noble steeds were led to the foot of the scaffold, which were quickly mounted by the rescued prisoners ! Swords were placed in their hands, and caps with plumes upon their heads ! Meanwhile a fierce conflict commenced between the government force and the insurgents! the populace excited by sympathy and love for the veteran grandee, armed themselves with whatever weapons they could lay their hands upon, and seconded the rebellion ! With Cascara and Nunez to lead them on, they bravely battled with the regulars, who were at length forced to retreat from the square. Santa Anna, in p>erson, with the palace guards, now came to the aid of the retreating force, and for a time they sustained their position ! Nunez appeared wherever the conflict raged most severe. Although some what enfeebled by his imprisonment, yet he seemed inspired with a new impulse that gave to his frame ah almost supernatural power! His im petuosity was irresistible and his path was marked by the dead and the dy ing ! Arnid the conflict he espied the dark-looking form of the Brigand Chief, dealing deadly blows among the defenceless of the populace. In a moment he confronted him, exclaiming: * Monster ! thy time has come !' The bloody Manr'ujue attempted to avoid him ; but the lion was too near liis prey ! With one well-directed blow of his powerful arm, the merciless desperado fell lifeless from his horse! The battle still raged and through square after squar^ the minions of T11E RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 53 Santa Anna retreated before the now resistless conquerors ! Finding still further effort useless, the usurper with a remnant of his troops turned and fled from the capital ! Tho city being now in the hands of the insurgents, order was again res tored. The news of their success, like wildfire, spread throughput the Republic ! The standard of rebellion was raised, and ultimately a com plete revolution was effected ! Having now completed the bloody scenes of our ' Romance' (and we trust our kind and patient readers will believe it is meant for ' nothin' else') we will now render a few of its seeming improbabilities and inconsistencies more intelligible to those who have accompanied us through our task. The' Sante Fe horse dealers, whom we alluded to in the commencement of this chapter, were none others than the brave cavaliers of Alvorado Nu nez, under the command of the youthful but gallant Enrique Canazilla, who had entered the gates of the capital so completely disguised that they cau sed not the slightest suspicion. Communicating with many known enemies of Santa Anna, Canazilla had secured the aid of a force nearly equalling that of the goveinment's! It was first proposed to attack the Acordada early on the morning of the day appointed for the execution, but their judi cious leader, deeming that their success depended almost entirely upon the minds of the mass of the populace, and knowing that their sympathies might be excited on beholding the noble Cascara, who was so much beloved by them, standing upon the scaffold, resolved to make the attack soon as the pre-concerted signal was given, that the executioner was preparing to per form his sanguinary task. Soon as the prisoners were rescued the indefatigable Zeb Short made his appearance again beside the infernal machine! With one blow of an axe, which he had secured for the purpose, the* deadly instrument fell to the ground, amid a shout of exultation from the populace ! Zeb now gave three cheers half Yankee and half Mexican which met with another hearty response from the multitude ! Lifting the partially revived Isabella in his left arm, and throwing the axe over his right shoulder, he descended tri umphantly from the scaffold, and bore the beauteous maiden safely through scenes of deadly strife to the palace of her father. She had now completely revived, and from the balcony she beheld the tyrant's force flying from the city ! Soon as the strife was over, Cascara and Nunez proceeded towards the palace, escorted by Canazilla and his force, and followed by the multitude who rent the air with shouts of exultation ! The lovely Isabella came forth to meet her victorious father and lover, and embraced them warmly. 'Did'nt I tell ye, Gineral, that when you sot eyes agin on this ere child, you'd be as happy as a militia cap'in at a gineral muster ?' ejaculated Zeb Short, soon as they had entered the grand saloon. ' I know'd it all the time. There was no use o' takin on.' 54 THE RIVAL CHIEFTAINS. 'By 'my faith!' replied the General, seizing Zeb by the hand. 'This is our American friend ! To him we owe our lives !' * And the great victory we have this day achieved !' added Enrique Cana- zilla. * His wise counsel, throughout this expedition, I have strenuously ad hered to!' ' By San Cristobal !' exclaimed Alvorado. * He is the prince of schemers ! With such an one, I would undertake the conquest of a nation !' ' For his gallantry, I have one word to say,' replied Isabella, with a faint blush upon her fair cheek. * He bore me in his arms from the Plaza to the palace!' ' And I'd dew the came thing agin under the particular circumstances of the case! Thct'sthe way we dew up things in the land o' steady habits. Now, Gineral, if you have got any bizncss for this ere child, I'll dew it as cheap as any other live Yankee! I shan't charge but seven-and-six a day, vittles and lodging included ! I come out hero to make a spec and I'll be darn'd if I don't dew it !' 4 You shall be amply provided for,' replied Cascara. In Jess than one year after the triumph of the insurgents in the capi tal of Mexico, the complete Revolution of the Republic was efl'ei'ted. Santa Anna, was captured in attempting to escape, and now awaits his trial in one of the dungeons of the prison at Perole. Our hero, Don Alvorado Nunez, espoused the beauteous Isabella but a few months since, and he novr holds a high oiticc in the new govern ment. His father-in-law and his brave lieutenant, Enrique Cauazilla, also hold responsible stations. Zeb Short is still in Mexico! The General kept his promise, and he is now the richest and happiest Yankee in the Republic! Whether he luus relinquished his intention of investing Miss Nancy Buttercup with the short er and less euphonious appellation of Mrs. Zeb Short, or bestow it upon some black-eyed Senorita of the capital, we are unable to inform our read ers! In conclusion, we would state that a valuable tiara of diamonds was found among the valuables at the government palace, which was identified by the grandee and his daughter, as the one that had been taken by the ban dits from the Senora de Cascara, and also recognized by Nunez to be the same he had seen in the Brigands' Cave. The treasures of this remarkable grotto were removed by Canazillu to the capital soon after the flight of Santo. Anna, and placed in possession of the new government. Our tale is now complete. 1'atient reader, au revoir !