H. Bedford-Jones

“ Every one knows that Basques are adventurers and men of great deeds-”
“But, señora,” protested Hampton, “we do not yet know whose hospitality we are so happily enjoying!”
The señora opened her dark eyes.
“What! Have I not told you that my husband is the merchant Juan Avilar y Sortes of Mazatlan, and that I am Inez de Sortes? You must pardon my omission, then, señores! Come, what of yourselves?”
Hampton made haste to forestall his companion in replying. Now that he definitely knew the lady for a liar—he was convinced that she was the wife of Dias—he did not hesitate to deliver a bold stroke. ”

“ Then, while he stood beside Warlock in the hall for a moment, as the Chinaman took their hats before leading them on into the patio, Hampton could have groaned aloud. The woman took them for Basques; but if his suspicions were correct, Dias' spies already knew their true names—or that of Hampton, at least. Perhaps, after all, Dias had taken for granted that they would never reach Panama; yet he was not a man to take things for granted. Hampton gripped Job Warlock's shoulder, as they crossed the threshold. ”

“ My husband's schooner is now down among the islands, and will return here in a week, to carry me north to Mazatlan. May I offer you a passage to that port? There I can help you arrange for a passage to San Francisco, or my husband can do so. Would this suit you?”
Her gaze dwelt upon Hampton's face, and he endeavored to assume a joy that he was far from feeling. It was ridiculous to think that this woman was deliberately flirting with him, yet he read curious things in those dark and liquid eyes. ”