Talk to me in English. When I press, thus,
upon your gum, you will know that some one is passing. Now then,
what is the meaning of your amazing message from Felipe?"
While Doctor Alvarado pretended to treat a perfectly sound molar,
Johnnie managed, despite frequent interruptions, to make known the
reason and circumstances of his presence.
"But there are no rebels around here," Alvarado told him. "You
could escape to the country, perhaps, but what then? Where would
you go? How would they know who you are?"
"That's what I want to find out."
The Cuban pondered. "You'll have to go to Puerto Principe," he
said, at length. "Our men are operating in that neighborhood, and
my brother Ignacio will know how to reach them. I'll give you a
message to him, similar to the one you brought me from Felipe."
Then he smiled. "I've just thought of the very thing. Years ago I
lent him a book which I particularly prized, and one of his
children damaged it. I was furious. I declared I would never lend
him another, and I never have. Now then, I'll give you that very
volume; hand it to him and say that I asked you to return it to
him. I'd like to see his face when he receives it."
O'Reilly thanked him, promising to use every precaution in
delivering the message. The very care necessary in communicating
between brother and brother made him realize more clearly than
hitherto that he was among enemies.
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