20 Don Diego shows interest. The threatened rain did not come that day, nor that night, and the following morning found the sun shining brightly, and the sky blue, and the scent of blossoms in the air. Soon after the morning meal the Pulido Carrero was driven to the front of the house by Don Diego's servants, and Don Carlos and his wife and daughter prepared to depart for their own hacienda. It desolates me, Don Diego said at the door, that there can be no match between the senorita and myself. What shall I say to my father? Do not give up hope, Caballero. Don Carlos advised him. Perhaps when we are home again, and Lolita contrasts our humble abode with your magnificence here, she will change her mind. A woman changes her mind, Caballero, as often as she does the method of doing her hair. I had thought all would be arranged before now. Don Diego said, You think there is still hope? I trust so. Don Carlos said, But he doubted it, remembering the look that had been in the senorita's face. However, he intended having a serious talk with her once they were home, and possibly might decide to insist on obedience even in this matter of taking a mate. So the usual courtesies were paid, and then the lumbering careta was driven away, and Don Diego Vega turned back into his house with his head hanging upon his breast, as it always hung when he did himself the trouble to think. Presently he decided that he needed companionship for the moment, and left the house to cross the plaza and enter the tavern. The fat landlord rushed to greet him, conducted him to a choice seat near a window, and fetched wine without being commanded to do so. Don Diego spent the greater part of an hour looking through the window at the plaza, watching men and women come and go, observing the toiling natives, and now and then glancing up the trail that ran toward the Sangabriel Road. Down this trail, presently, he observed approaching two-mounted men, and between their horses walked a third man, and Don Diego could see that ropes ran from this man's waist to the saddles of the horsemen. What in the name of the saints have we here? He exclaimed, getting up from the bench and going closer to the window. Ha! said the landlord at his shoulder, that will be some prisoner coming now. Prisoner! said Don Diego, looking at him with a question in his glance. A native brought the news a short time ago, Caballero. Once more, a fray is in the toils.  The man is to go before the magistrato immediately for his trial. They say that he swindled a dealer in hides, and now must pay the penalty. He wished his trial at Sangabriel, but that was not allowed, since all there are in favor of the missions and the frayiles. Who is this man? Don Diego asked. He is called Fray Felipe, Caballero. What is this? Fray Felipe is an old man, and my good friend. I spent night before the last with him at the Hacienda he manages. No doubt he is imposed upon you, Caballero, as upon others, the landlord said. Don Diego showed some slight interest now. He walked briskly from the tavern and went to the office of the magistrato in a little adobe building on the opposite side of the plaza. The horsemen were just arriving with their prisoner. They were two soldiers who had been stationed at Sangabriel. The frayiles had been forced to give them bed and board in the governor's name. It was Fray Felipe. He had been forced to walk the entire distance fastened to the saddles of his guards, and there were indications that the horsemen had galloped now and then to test the fray's power of endurance. Fray Felipe's gown was almost in rags, and was covered with dust and perspiration. Those who crowded around him now gave him jeers and coarse jests, but the fray held his head proudly and pretended not to see or hear them. The soldiers dismounted and forced him into the magistrato's office, and the loiterers and natives crowded forward and through the door. Don Diego hesitated a moment and then stepped toward the door. "'One side scum,' he cried, and the natives gave way before him. He entered impressed through the throng. The magistrato saw him and beckoned him to a front seat, but Don Diego did not care to sit at that time. "'What is it we have here?' he demanded. "'This is Fray Felipe, a godly man, and my friend.' "'He is a swindler,' one of the soldiers retorted. "'If he is, then we can put our trust in no man,' Don Diego observed. "'All this is quite a regular caballero.' The magistrato insisted, stepping forward. The charges had been preferred, and the man is here to be tried.' Then Don Diego sat down and court was convened. The man who made the complaint was an evil-looking fellow who explained that he was a dealer in tallow and hides, and had a warehouse in San Gabriel. "'I went to the hacienda this fray manages and purchased ten hides of him,' he testified. After giving him the coins and payment, and taking them to my storehouse, I found that the hides had not been cured properly. In fact they were ruined. I returned to the hacienda and told the fray as much, demanding that he return the money, which he refused to do. "'The hides were good,' Fray Felipe put in. I told him I would return the money when he returned the hides. They were spoiled,' the dealer declared. "'My assistant here will testify as much. They caused a stench, and I had them burned immediately.' The assistant testified as much. "'Have you anything to say, fray?' the magistrato asked. "'It will avail me nothing,' Fray Felipe said. I am already found guilty and sentenced. Were I a follower of a licentious governor instead of a robed Franciscan, the hides would have been good. "'You speak treason,' the magistrato cried. "'I speak truth,' the magistrato puckered his lips and frowned. "'There has been entirely too much of the swindling,' he said finally. "'Because a man wears a robe he cannot rob with impunity. In this case I deem it proper to make an example, that Fray Elis will see that they cannot take advantage of their calling. The fray must repay the man the price of the hides, and for the swindle he shall receive across his bareback ten lashes. And for the words of treason, he has spoken, he shall receive five lashes additional. It is a sentence.'" End of chapter. CHAPTER XXI. THE WHIPPING. The natives jeered and applauded, Don Diego's face went white, and for an instant his eyes met those of Fray Felipe, and in the face of the latter he saw resignation. The office was cleared, and the soldiers led the fray to the place of execution in the middle of the plaza. Don Diego observed that the magistrato was grinning, and he realized what a farce the trial had been. "'These turbulent times,' he said to a gentleman of his acquaintance who stood near. They tore Felipe's robe from his back, and started to lash him to the post. But the fray had been a man of great strength in his day, and some of it remained to him in his advanced years, and it came to him now what ignonomy he was to suffer. Suddenly he whirled the soldiers aside, and stooped to grasp the whip from the ground. "'You have removed my robe,' he cried. "'I am man now, not fray, one-side, dogs!' He lashed out with the whip. He cut a soldier across the face. He struck at two natives who sprang toward him, and then the throng was upon him, beating him down, kicking and striking at him, disregarding even the soldier's orders. Don Diego Vega felt moved to action. He could not see his friend treated in this manner despite his docile disposition. He rushed into the midst of the throng, calling upon the natives to clear the way, but he felt at hand grasp his arm and turned to look into the eyes of the magistrado. "'These are no actions for a cabillero,' the judge said in a low tone. The man has been sentenced properly. When you raise hand to give him aid, you raise hand against his Excellency. Have you stopped to think of that, Don Diego Vega?' Apparently Don Diego had not, and he realized too that he could do no good to his friend by interfering now. He nodded his head to the magistrado and turned away. But he did not go far. The soldiers had subdued Frey Felipe by now, and had lashed him to the whipping-post. This was added insult, for the post was used for none except in subordinate natives. The lash was swung through the air, and Don Diego saw blood spurt from Frey Felipe's bare back. He turned his face away, then, for he could not bear to look. But he could count the lashes by the singing of the whip through the air, and he knew that proud old Frey Felipe was making not the slightest sound of pain and would die without doing so. He heard the natives laughing, and turned back again to find that the whipping was at an end. "'The money must be repaid within two days, or you shall have fifteen lashes more.' The magistrado was saying. Frey Felipe was untied, and dropped to the ground at the foot of the post. The crowd began to melt away. Two Frey Elis, who had followed him from San Gabriel, aided their brother to his feet, and led him aside while the natives hooted. Don Diego Vega returned to his house. "'Semi Bernardo,' he ordered, as dispensero. The butler bit his lip to keep from grinning as he went to do as he was bitten.  Within the minute he entered the great living-room and bowed before his master. "'Bernardo, you were a gem,' Don Diego said. "'You cannot speak or hear, cannot write or read, and have not sense enough to make your wants known by the sign language.  You do not ha me at every turn.' Bernardo bobbed his head as if he understood. He always bobbed his head in that fashion when Don Diego's lips ceased to move. "'These are turbulent times, Bernardo,' Don Diego continued. "'A man can find no place where he can meditate. Even at Frey Felipe's night before last there came a big sergeant pounding at the door. A man with nerves is in a sorry state. And this whipping of old Frey Felipe—'Bernardo, let us hope that this senior Zorro, who punishes those who work in justice, hears of the affair and acts accordingly,' Bernardo bobbed his head again. "'As for myself, I am in a pretty pickle,' Don Diego went on. My father has ordered that I get me a wife, and the senior Rita I selected will have none of me. I shall have my father taking me by the ear in short order. Bernardo, it is time for me to leave this pueblo for a few days. I shall go to the hacienda of my father, to tell him I have got no woman to wed me yet, and ask his indulgence. And there, on the wide hills behind his house, may I hope to find some spot where I may rest and consult the poets for one entire day without highwaymen and sergeants and unjust magistratos bothering me. And you, Bernardo, shall accompany me, of course. I can talk to you without your taking the words out of my mouth." Bernardo bobbed his head again. He guessed what was to come. It was a habit of Don Diego's to talk to him thus for a long time, and always there was a journey afterward. Bernardo liked that, because he worshipped Don Diego, and because he liked to visit the hacienda of Don Diego's father, where he always was treated with kindness. The dispensary had been listening in the other room and had heard what was said, and now he gave orders from Don Diego's horse to be made ready, and prepared a bottle of wine and water for the master to take with him. Within a short time Don Diego set out, Bernardo riding a mule a short distance behind him. They hurried along the high road and presently caught up with a small caretta, beside which walk two robed Franciscans, and in which was Fray Felipe trying to keep back moans of pain. Don Diego dismounted beside the caretta as it stopped. He went over to it and clashed Fray Felipe's hands in his own. My poor friend, he said, hit his but another instance of injustice, Fray Felipe said, for twenty years we of the missions have been subjected to it, and it grows. The saint in Junipero Cera invaded this land when other men feared, and at San Diego de Acala he built the first mission of what became a chain, thus giving an empire to the world. Our mistake was that we prospered. We did the work, and others reaped the advantages. Don Diego nodded, and the other went on. They began taking our mission lands from us, lands we had cultivated, which had formed a wilderness in which my brothers had turned into gardens and orchards. They robbed us of worldly goods, and not content with that they now are persecuting us. The mission empire is doomed, Caballero. The time is not far distant when mission roofs will fall in, and the walls crumble away. Some day people will look at the ruins and wonder how such a thing could come to pass. But we can do not accept submit. It is one of our principles. I did forget myself for a moment in the plaza at Reina de Los Angeles when I took the whip and struck a man. It is our lot to submit. Sometimes, mused on Diego, I wish I were a man of action. You give sympathy, my friend, which is worth its weight in precious stones. An action expressed in a wrong channel is worse than no action at all. Where do you ride? To the hacienda of my father, good friend. I must crave his pardon and ask his indulgence. He is ordered that I get me a wife, and I find it a difficult task. That should be an easy task for a vega. Any maiden would be proud to take that name. I had hoped to wed with the senorita Lolito Polito, she having taken my fancy. Oh, worthy maiden! Her father, too, has been subjected to unjust oppression. Did you join your family to his? Men would dare raise hand against him. All that is very well, fray, and the absolute truth, of course, but the senorita will have none of me, Don Diego complained. It appears that I have not dash and spirit enough. She is hard to please, perhaps. Or possibly she is but playing at being a coquette with the hope of leading you on and increasing your ardor. A maid loves to tantalize a man, Caballero. It is her privilege. I showed her my house in the Pueblo, and mentioned my great wealth, and agreed to purchase a new carriage for her, Don Diego told him. Did you show her your heart, mention your love, and agreed to be a perfect husband? Don Diego looked at him blankly, then batted his eyes rapidly, and scratched at his chin, as he did sometimes when he was puzzled over a matter.  He exclaimed after a time. Try it, Caballero! It may have an excellent effect. End of chapter. CHAPTER XXII OF THE MARK OF ZARRO. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information, or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. This recording is by Mark Smith of Simpsonville, South Carolina. The Mark of Zorro by Johnston McCully. CHAPTER XXII SWIFT PUNISHMENT. The Freyiles drove the cart onward. Frey Felipe raised his hand in blessing, and Don Diego Vega turned aside into the other trail, the deaf and dumb Bernardo, following at his heels on the mule. Back in the Pueblo, the dealer in hides and tallow was the center of attraction at the tavern. The fat landlord was kept busy supplying his guests with wine, for the dealer in hides and tallow was spending a part of the money of which he had swindled Frey Felipe. The magistrate was spending the rest. There was boisterous laughter as one recounted how Frey Felipe lay about him with the whip, and how the blood spurred from his old back when the lash was applied. Not a whimper from him, cried the dealer in hides and tallow. He is a courageous old coyote. Now, last month we whipped one at San Fernando, and he howled for mercy. But some men said he had been ill and was weak, and possibly that was so. A tough lot, these Freyiles, but it is great sport when we can make one howl. Ha-ha! More wine, landlord! Frey Felipe is paying for it! There was a deal of raucous laughter at that, and the dealer's assistant, who had given perjured testimony, was tossed a coin and told to play a man and do his own buying, whereupon the apprentice purchased wine for all in the inn, and howled merrily when the fat landlord gave him no change from his piece of money. Are you afraid that you pinch coins? the landlord asked. Those in the tavern howled with merriment again, and the landlord, who had cheated the assistant to the limit, grinned as he went about his business. It was a great day for the fat landlord. Who was the caballero who showed some mercy toward the Frey? The dealer asked. What was Don Diego Vega? The landlord replied. He will be getting himself into trouble. Not Don Diego, said the landlord. You know the great Vega family, do you not, senor? His excellency himself curries their favour. Did the Vegas hold up as much as a little finger there would be a political upheaval in these parts? Then he is a dangerous man. The dealer asked. A torrent of laughter answered him. A dangerous Don Diego Vega? The landlord cried, while tears ran down his fat cheeks. You will be the death of me. Don Diego does not but sit in the sun and dream. He scarcely ever wears a blade, except as a matter of show. He groans if he has to ride a few miles on a horse. Don Diego is about as dangerous as a lizard basking in the sun. But he is an excellent gentleman for all that. The landlord added hastily, afraid that his words would reach Don Diego's ears, and Don Diego would take his custom elsewhere. It was almost dusk when the dealer in hides and tallow left the tavern with his assistant, and both reeled as they walked, for they had partaken of too much wine. They made their way to the careta in which they traveled, waved their farewells to the group about the door of the tavern, and started slowly up the trail toward San Gabriel. They made their journey in a leisurely manner, continuing to drink from a jug of wine they had purchased. They went over the crest of the first hill, and the Pueblo of Reina de las Angeles was lost to view, and all they could see was the highway, twisting before them like a great dusty serpent, and the brown hills, and a few buildings in the distance where some man had his hacienda. They made a turning and found a horseman confronting them, sitting easily in the saddle, with his horse standing across the road in such a manner that they could not pass. "'Turn your horse, turn your beast,' the dealer in hides and tallow cried. "'Would you have me drive over you?' the assistant gave an exclamation that was part of fear, and the dealer looked more closely at the horseman. His jaw dropped, his eyes bulged. "'Tis, senor Zorro,' he exclaimed, by the saints. "'Tis a curse of capistroto all way down here near San Gabriel. "'You would not bother me, senor Zorro? I'm a poor man, and have no money. Only yesterday a fray swindled me, and I have been to Reina de las Angeles seeking justice.' "'Did you get it?' senor Zorro asked. "'The magistrato was kind, senor. He ordered the fray to repay me, but I do not know when I shall get the money.' "'Get out of the caretta, and your assistant also,' senor Zorro commanded. "'But I have no money,' the dealer protested. "'Out of the caretta with you! Do I have to request it twice? Move or lead finds a lodging place in your carcass.' "'Now the dealer saw that the highwayman held a pistol in his hand, and he squealed with sudden fright, and got out of the cart as speedily as possible, his assistant tumbling out at his heels. They stood in the dusty highway before senor Zorro, trembling with fear, the dealer begging for mercy. "'I have no money with me, kind highwayman, but I shall get it for you,' the dealer cried. "'I shall carry it to where you say, but whenever you wish.'" "'Silence, beast,' senor Zorro cried. "'I do not want your money, perjurer. I know all about the farce of a trial at Reina Dolos Angeles. I have ways of finding out about such things speedily. So the aged fray swindled you, eh? Liar and thief, tis you who are the swindler.  And you and the magistrate will divide the money of which you swindled him. "'I swear by the saints.' "'Do not!' "'You have done enough false swearing already. Step forward.'" The dealer complied, trembling as if with the disease, and senor Zorro dismounted swiftly and walked around in front of his horse. The dealer's assistant was standing beside the carreta, and his face was white. "'FORWARD,' senor Zorro commanded again. Again the dealer complied, but suddenly he began to beg for mercy, for senor Zorro had taken a mule whip from beneath his long cloak, and held it ready in his right hand while he held the pistol in his left. "'Turn your back,' he commanded now. "'Mercy, good high-women, am I to be beaten as well as robbed? You would whip an honest merchant because of a thieving fray!' The first blow fell, and the dealer shrieked with pain. His last remark appeared to have given strength to the high-women's arm. The second blow fell, and the dealer in hides and tallow went to his knees and the dusty high-road. Then senor Zorro returned his pistol to his belt, and stepped forward and grasped the dealer's mop of hair with his left hand, so as to hold him up. And with the right he reigned heavy blows with the mule whip upon the man's back, until his tough coat and shirt were cut to ribbons and the blood soaked through. "'That for a man who purges himself and has an honest fray punished!' Senor Zorro cried. And then he gave his attention to the assistant. "'No doubt, young man, you but carried out your master's orders when you lied before the magistrado,' he said. "'But you must be taught to be honest and fair, no matter what the circumstances.' "'Mercy, senor!' the assistant howled. "'Did you not laugh when a fray was being whipped? Are you not filled with wine now because you have been celebrating the punishment that godly man received for something he did not do?' Senor Zorro grasped the youth by the nape of his neck, pulled him around and sent a stiff blow at his shoulders. The boy shrieked and then began whimpering. Five lashes in all he received, for senor Zorro apparently did not wish to render him unconscious. And finally he hurled the boy from him and looped his whip. "'Let us hope both of you have learned your lesson,' he said. "'Get into the careta and drive on. And when you speak of this occurrence, tell the truth, else I hear of it and punish you again. Let me not learn that you have said some fifteen or twenty men surrounded and held you while I worked with the whip.' The apprentice sprang into the cart, and his master followed, and they whipped up and disappeared in a cloud of dust towards San Gabriel. Senor Zorro looked after them for a time, then lifted his mask and wiped the perspiration from his face, and then mounted his horse again, fastening the mule whip to the pommel of his saddle. The Mark of Zorro, by Johnston McCully. CHAPTER XXIII. MORE PUNISHMENT Senor Zorro rode quickly to the crest of the hill beneath which was the Pueblo, and there he stopped his horse and looked down at the village. It was almost dark, but he could see quite well enough for his purpose. Candles had been lighted in the tavern, and from the building came the sounds of raucous song and loud jest. Candles were burning at the Presidio, and from some of the houses came the odor of cooking food. Senor Zorro rode on down the hill. When he reached the edge of the plaza he put spurs to his horse and dashed up to the tavern door, before which half a dozen men were congregated, the most of them under the influence of wine. LAND LORD. He cried. None of the men about the door gave him particular attention at first, thinking he was but some cabillero on a journey wishing refreshment. The landlord hurried out, rubbing his fat hands together, and stepped close to the horse, and then he saw that the rider was masked and that the muzzle of a pistol was threatening him. "'Is the magistrato within?' Senor Zorro asked. "'E si, senor?' Stand where you are and pass the word for him. Say there is a cabillero here who wishes speech with him regarding a certain matter.' The terrified landlord shrieked for the magistrato, and the word was passed inside. Presently the judge came staggering out, crying in a loud voice to know who had summoned him from his pleasant entertainment. He staggered up to the horse and put one hand against it, and looked up to find two glittering eyes regarding him through a mask. He opened his mouth to shriek, but Senor Zorro warned him in time. "'Not a sound, or you die,' he said. "'I have come to punish you. May you pass judgment on a godly man who was innocent. Moreover, you knew of his innocence, and the trial was but a farce. By your order he received a certain number of lashes. You shall have the same payment.' "'You dare—' "'Silence!' The high woman commanded. "'You about the door there. Come to my side,' he called. They crowded forward the most of them peons who thought that here was a cabillero who wished something done and had gold to pay for it. In the dust they did not see the mask and pistol until they stood beside the horse, and it was too late to retreat then. "'We are going to punish this unjust magistrato,' Senor Zorro told them. "'The five of you will seize him now and conduct him to the post in the middle of the plaza, and there you will tie him. The first man to falter receives a slug of lead from my pistol, and my blade will deal with the others, and I wish speed also.' The frightened magistrato began to screech now. Left loudly, that his cries may not be heard. The high woman ordered, and the men laughed as loudly as they could, albeit there was a peculiar quality to their laughter. They seized the magistrato by the arms and conducted him to the post, and bound him there with thongs. "'You will line up,' Senor Zorro told them. "'You will take this whip, and each of you will lash this man five times. I shall be watching, and if I see the whip fall lightly once I shall deal out punishment. Begin!' He tossed the whip to the first man, and the punishment began. Senor Zorro had no fault to find with the manner in which it was given, for there was great fear in the hearts of the peons, and they whipped with strength and willingly. "'You also, landlord,' Senor Zorro said. "'You will put me in car-cell for it afterward?' The landlord wailed. "'Do you prefer car-cell or a coffin, senor?' The high woman asked. It became evident that the landlord preferred the car-cell. He picked up the whip, and he surpassed the peons in the strength of his blows. The magistrata was hanging heavily from the thongs now. Unconsciousness had come to him with about the fifteenth blow, more through fear than through pain and punishment. Unfastened the man, the high woman ordered. Two men sprang forward to do his bidding. "'Carry him to his house,' Senor Zorro went on, and tell the people of the Pueblo that this is the manner in which Senor Zorro punishes those who oppress the poor and helpless, who give unjust verdicts and who steal in the name of the law.  The magistrata was carried away, groaning, consciousness returning to him now. Senor Zorro turned once more to the landlord. "'We shall return to the tavern,' he said. "'You will go inside and fetch me a mug of wine, and stand beside my horse while I drink it. It would be only a waste of breath for me to say what will happen to you if you attempt treachery on the way.' But there was fear of the magistrata in the landlord's heart as great as his fear of Senor Zorro. He went back to the tavern beside the high woman's horse, and he hurried inside as if to get the wine, but he sounded the alarm. "'Senor Zorro, it's without!' he hissed at those nearest the table. He has just caused the magistrata to be whipped cruelly. He has sent me to get him a mug of wine.' Then he went on to the wine-cask and began drawing the drink slowly as possible. There was sudden activity inside the tavern. Some half-dozen caballeros were there, men who followed in the footsteps of the governor. Now they drew their blades and began creeping toward the door, and one of them who possessed a pistol and had it in a sash drew it out, saw that it was prepared for work, and followed in their wake. Senor Zorro, sitting his horse some twenty feet from the door of the tavern, suddenly beheld a throng rush out at him, saw the light flash from half a dozen blades, heard the report of a pistol, and heard a ball whistle past his head. The landlord was standing in the doorway, praying that the high woman would be captured, for then he would be given some credit, and perhaps the magistrata would not punish him for having used the lash. Senor Zorro caused his horse to rear high in the air, and then raked the beast with the spurs, the animal sprang forward into the midst of the caballeros, scattering them. That was what Senor Zorro wanted. His blade already was out of its scabbard, and it passed through a man's sword-arm, swung over and drew blood on another. He fenced like a maniac, maneuvering his horse to keep his antagonists separated, so that only one could get at him at a time. Now the air was filled with shrieks and cries, and men came tumbling from the houses to ascertain the cause of the commotion. Senor Zorro knew that some of them would have pistols, and while he feared no blade, he realized that a man could stand some distance away and cut him down with a pistol ball. So he caused his horse to plunge forward again, and before the fat landlord realized it, Senor Zorro was beside him, and had reached down and grasped him by the arm. The horse started away, the fat landlord dragging, shrieking for rescue and begging for mercy in the same breath. Senor Zorro rode with him to the whipping-post. Hadn't me that whip, he commanded.  He left him once to charge down upon those who had blades and so scatter them, and then he was back with the landlord again, applying the whip. "'You tried treachery,' he cried. "'Dog of a thief! You would send men about my ears, eh? I'll strip your tough hide!' "'Mosy!' the landlord shrieked and fell to the ground. Senor Zorro cut at him again, bringing forth a yell more than blood. He wheeled his horse and darted at the nearest of his foes. Another pistol-ball whistled past his head. Another man sprang at him with blade ready. Senor Zorro ran the man neatly through the shoulder and put spurs to his horse again. He galloped as far as the whipping-post, and there he stopped his horse and faced them for an instant.  He swept off his sombrero and bowed to them in nice mockery, and then he wheeled his horse again and dashed away.' End of chapter. Chapter 24 of The Mark of Zorro. This recording is by Mark Smith of Simpsonville, South Carolina. The Mark of Zorro. By Johnston McCully. Chapter 24 At the Hacienda of Don Alejandro. Behind him he left a tumult in the town. The shrieks of the fat landlord had aroused the pueblo. Men came running, servants hurrying at their sides and carrying torches. Women peered from the windows of the houses. Natives stood still wherever they happened to be and shivered, for it had been their dear experience that, whenever there was a tumult, natives paid the price. Many young caballeros of hot blood were there, and for some time there had been no excitement in the pueblo of Reina de Los Angeles. These young men crowded into the tavern and listened to the wails of the landlord, and some hurried to the house of the magistrado and saw his wounds, and heard him declaim on the indignity that had been offered the law, and therefore his Excellency the Governor. Captain Ramon came down from the Presidio, and when he heard the cause of the tumult he swore great oaths, and sent his only well-man to ride along the Palo Road, overtake Sergeant Gonzales and his troopers, and bid them return and take the trail, since at the time being they were following a false sent. But the young caballeros saw in this circumstance a chance for excitement that was to their liking, and they asked permission of the comandante to form a posse and take after the high women a permission they received immediately. Some thirty of them mounted horses, looked to weapons, and set out, with the intention of dividing into three bands of ten each when they came to forks in the trail. The townsmen cheered them as they started, and they galloped rapidly up the hill and toward the San Gabriel Road, making a deal of noise, glad that now there was a moon to let them see the foe when they approached him. In time they separated, ten going toward San Gabriel proper, ten taking the trail that led to the Hacienda Afre Felipe, and the last ten following a road that curved down the valley to the neighborhood of a series of landed estates owned by wealthy dons of the day.  Don Diego rode with leisure, and it was long after nightfall when he turned from the main road and followed a narrower one toward his father's house. Don Alejandro Vega, the head of the family, sat alone at his table, the remains of the evening meal before him, when he heard a horseman before the door. A servant ran to open it, and Don Diego entered, Bernardo following close behind him. Ah! Diego, my son! the old Don cried, extending his arms. Don Diego was clasped for an instant to his father's breast, and then he sat down beside the table and grasped a mug of wine. Having refreshed himself, he faced on Alejandro once more. It has been a fatiguing journey, he remarked. And the cause for it, my son. I felt that I should come to the Hacienda. Diego said, It is no time to be in the Pueblo. Wherever a man turns he finds naught but violence and bloodshed. This confounded Sr. Zoro, ha! what of him? Please do not ha! me, sir, and father. I have been haught at from morning until night these several days. These be turbulent times. This Sr. Zoro has made a visit to the Pulido Hacienda and frightened everyone there. I went to my Hacienda on business, and from there I went over to see old Fray Felipe, thinking I might get a chance to meditate in his presence.  They caught him? I believe not, sir and father. I returned to the Pueblo. And what think you happened there this day? They brought in Fray Felipe, accused of having swindled a dealer. And after a mockery of a trial they lashed him to a post and gave him the whip fifteen times across his back. The Scoundrels! Don Alejandro cried. I could stand it no longer, and so I decided to pay you a visit. Wherever I turn there is turmoil. It is enough to make a man insane. Let me ask Bernardo if it is not.  Bernardo grinned back as a matter, of course, not knowing it was no manner in which to act in the presence of a Don. You have something else to tell me? Don Alejandro asked his son, looking at him searchingly. By the saints now it comes. I had hoped to avoid it, father and sir. Let me hear about it. I paid a visit to the Pulido Hacienda, and spoke with Don Carlos and his wife, also the Signorita Lolita. You were pleased with the Signorita? She is as lovely as any girl of my acquaintance. Don Diego said, I spoke to Don Carlos of the matter of marriage, and he appeared to be delighted. Ah, he would be, said Don Alejandro. But the marriage cannot take place, I fear. How is this? There is some shadow concerning the Signorita? Not to my knowledge. She appears to be a sweet and innocent maiden, father and sir. I had them come to Reina de la Sanctiola and spend a couple of days at my house. I had it arranged so that she could see the furnishings and learn of my wealth. That was a wise arrangement, my son. But she will have none of me. How is this? Refuses to wed with a vega? Refuses to become allied to the most powerful family in the country, with the best blood in the land? She intimated, father and sir, that I am not the sort of man for her. She is prone to foolishness, I believe. She would have me play a guitar under her window, perhaps, and make eyes and hold hands when her duena is not looking, and all that silliness. By the saints, are you a vega? Don Alejandro cried. Would not any worthy man want a chance like that? Would not any caballero delight to serenade his love on a moonlight night?  I doubt not the Signorita was displeased with you. But I did not see that such things were necessary, Don Diego said. Did you go to the Signorita in a cold-blooded manner, and suggest that you wed and have it done with? Had you the idea, young sir, that you were purchasing a horse or a bull? By the saints! And so there is no chance for you to wed the girl? She has the best blood by far, next to our own. When Carlos bade me have hope, Diego replied. He took her back to the hacienda, and suggested that perhaps when she had been there a time, and had reflected, she might change her mind. She is yours if you play the game, Don Alejandro said. You are a vega, and therefore the best catch on the country. Be but half a lover, and the Signorita is yours. What sort of blood is in your veins? I have half a mind to slit one of them and see. Can't we allow this marriage business to drop for the time being? Don Diego asked. You are twenty-five. I was quite old when you were born. Soon I shall go the way of my fathers.   Give you a wife within the quarter year, young sir, and a wife I can accept into the family, or I leave my wealth through the Franciscans when I pass away. My father! I mean it!  I would you had half the courage and spirit this Signor Zorro this High-Women has. He has principles, and he fights for them. He aids the helpless and avenges the oppressed. I salute him. I would rather have you, my son, in his place, running the risk of death or imprisonment than to have you a lifeless dreamer of dreams that amount to naught. My father! I have been a dutiful son. I would you had been a little wild. It would have been more natural, Don Alejandro sighed. I could overlook a few escapades more easily than I can lifelessness. Arouse yourself, young sir. Remember that you are a vega. When I was your age I was not a laughing stock. I was ready to fight at a wink, to make love to every pair of flashing eyes, to stand up to any caballero in sports rough or refined. Ha! I pray you do not ha me, sir, and father. My nerves are on an edge. You must be more of a man. I shall attempt it immediately, Don Diego said, straightening himself somewhat in his chair. I had hoped to avoid it, but it appears that I cannot. I shall woo the senorita Lolita as other men woo maidens. You meant what you said about your fortune? I did, said Don Alejandro. Then I must besture myself. It would never do, of course, to let that fortune go out of the family. I shall think these matters over in peace and quiet tonight. I can meditate here, far from the Pueblo. By the saints! This last exclamation was caused by a sudden tumult outside the house. Don Alejandro and his son heard a number of horsemen stop, heard their calls to one another, heard bridles jingling and blades rattling. There is no peace in all the world, Don Diego said, with deepened gloom. It sounds like half a score of men. Don Alejandro said. It was. Exactly. A servant opened the door, and into the great room there strode ten caballeros, with blades at their sides and pistols in their belts. Ha! Don Alejandro! We crave hospitality! The foremost cried. You have it without asking, caballeros. What matter of journey is this you take? We pursue Senor Zoro, the highwayman. By the saints! Don Diego cried. One cannot escape it, even here. Violence in bloodshed! He invaded the plaza at Reina de las Angeles. The spokesman went on. He had the magistrado whipped because he sentence for a Felipe to receive the lash. And he whipped the fat landlord. And he fought half a score of men while he was about it. Then he rode away, and we made up a band to pursue him. He has not been in this neighborhood? Not to my knowledge, Don Alejandro said. My son arrived off the highway but a short time ago. You did not see the fellow Don Diego? I did not, Don Diego said. That is one stroke of good fortune that came my way. Don Alejandro had sent for servants, and now wine mugs were on the long table and heaps of small cakes, and the caballeros began to eat and drink. Don Diego knew well what that meant. Their pursuit of the high women was at an end. Their enthusiasm had waned. They would sit at his father's table and drink throughout the night, gradually getting intoxicated, shout and sing and tell stories, and in the morning ride back to Reina de las Angeles like so many heroes. It was the custom. The chase of Sr. Zorro was but a pretext for a merry time. The servants brought great stone jugs filled with rare wine and put them on the table, and Don Alejandro ordered that meat be fetched also. The young caballeros had a weakness for these parties at Don Alejandro's, for the Don's good wife had been dead for several years and there were no women folk except servants, and so they could make what noise they pleased throughout the night. In time they put aside pistols and blades and began to boast and brag, and Don Alejandro had his servants put the weapons in a far corner out of the way, for he did not wish a drunken quarrel with a dead caballero or two in his house. Don Diego drank and talked with them for a time and then sat to one side and listened, as if such foolishness bored him. It were well for this Sr. Zorro that we did not catch up with him, one cried, any one of us is a match for the fellow? Before the soldiers meant of merit he would have been taken long before this. Ha! For a chance at him! Another screeched, how the landlord did howl when he was whipped! He rode in this direction, Don Alejandro asked. We are not sure as to that. He took the San Gabriel trail, thirty of us followed. We separated into three bands, each going a different direction. It is the good fortune of one of the other bands to have him now, I suppose, but it is our excellent good fortune to be here. Don Diego stood before the company. Sr. you will pardon me, I know, if I retire. He said, I am fatigued with the journey. Retire by all means, one of his friends cried, and when you are rested come out to us again and make merry. They laughed at that, and Don Diego bowed ceremoniously and observed that several scarcely could get to their feet to bow in return, and then the sky in the house of Vega hurried from the room with the deaf and dumb man at his heels. He entered a room that always was ready for him, and in which a candle already was burning, and closed the door behind him, and Bernardo stretched his big form on the floor just outside it to guard his master during the night. In the great living room Don Diego scarcely was missed. His father was frowning and twisting his mustache, for he would have had his son like other young men. In his youth he was remembering he never left such a company early in the evening, and once again he sighed and wished that the saints had given him a son with red blood in his veins. The Caballeros were singing now, joining in the chorus of a popular love song, and their discordant voices filled the big room. An Alejandro smiled as he listened, for he brought his own youth back to him. They sprawled on chairs and benches on both sides of the long table, pounding it with their mugs as they sang, laughing boisterously now and then. "'Were this, Sr. Zorro, only here now?' one of them cried. A voice from the doorway answered him. "'Sinores, he is here!' CHAPTER 25 A LEAGUE is formed. The song ceased, the laughter was stilled. They blinked their eyes and looked across the room. Sr. Zorro stood just inside the door, having entered from the veranda without them knowing it. He wore his long cloak and his mask, and in one hand he held his accursed pistol, and its muzzle was pointed at the table. "'So these are the manner of men who pursue Sr. Zorro and hope to take him,' he said. "'Make not a move, else lead flies. Your weapons, I perceive, are in the corner.  Your noise may be heard a mile away, senores. What a posse to go pursuing a man! Is this the way you attend to duty? Why have you stopped to make merry while Sr. Zorro rides the highway? "'Give me my blade and let me stand before him,' one cried. "'If I allowed you to have blade you would be unable to stand.' The high woman answered, "'Think you there is one in this company who could fence with me now?' "'There is one,' cried Don Alejandro, in a loud voice, springing to his feet.  "'I refused to cross blades with you, and I am but telling these men some truths.' "'By the saints I shall make you!' "'A moment, Don Alejandro! Senores, this age of Don would fight me, and that would mean a wound or death for him. Will you allow it?' "'Don Alejandro must not fight our battles,' one of them cried, then see that he sits in his place, and all honor to him.' Don Alejandro started forward, but two of the Caballeros sprang before him and urged him to go back, saying that his honor was safe since he offered combat, raging Don Alejandro complied.  Take your swords in hand and attack oppression. Live up to your noble names and your blue blood, Senores. Drive the thieving politicians from the land. Protect the freelace whose work gave us these broad acres. Be men, not drunken fashion-plates.' "'By the saints,' one cried, and sprang to his feet, "'back, or I fire. "'Have not come to fight you in Don Alejandro's house. I respect him too much for that. I have come to tell you these truths concerning yourselves. Your families can make or break a governor. Band yourselves together in a good cause, Caballeros, and make some use of your lives. You would do it, were you not afraid. You seek adventure? Here is adventure aplenty, fighting injustice. "'By the saints, it would be a lark,' cried Juan, in answer. "'Look upon it as a lark, if it pleases you, yet you would be doing some good. Would the politicians dare stand against you? Skynes are the most powerful families. Band yourselves together and give yourselves a name. Make yourselves feared the length and breadth of the land. It would be treason. It is not treason to down a tyrant, Caballeros. Is it that you are afraid? "'By the saints, no,' they cried in chorus. Then make your stand. You would lead us? See, senores. But stay, are you of good blood?' "'I am a Caballero, of blood as good as any here,' Senor Zorro told them. Your name, where resides your family? These things must remain secrets for the present. I have given you my word. Your face must remain masked for the time being, senores.' They had lurched to their feet now and were acclaiming him wildly. Stay!' one cried. "'This is an imposition upon Don Alejandro. He may not be in sympathy, and we are planning and plotting in his house. I am in sympathy, Caballeros, and give you my support,' Don Alejandro said. Their cheers filled the great room. None could stand against them if Don Alejandro Vega was with them. Not even the Governor himself would dare oppose them. "'It is a bargain,' they cried. "'We shall call ourselves the Avengers. We shall ride El Camino Real and prove terrors to those who rob honest men and mistreat natives. We shall drive the thieving politicians out. And then you shall be Caballeros in truth. Night's protecting the weak,' Senor Zorro said. "'Never shall you repent this decision, senores. I lead, and I give you loyalty and expect as much. Also I expect obedience to orders.' "'What shall we do?' they cried. "'Let this remain a secret. In the morning return to Reina de Los Angeles and say that you did not find Senor Zorro. Say rather that you not catch him, which will be the truth. Be ready to band yourselves together and ride. I shall send word when the time arrives.' "'In what manner?' "'I know you all. I shall get word to one, and he can inform the others. "'It is agreed?' "'Agreed,' they shouted. "'Then I will leave you here and now. You are to remain in this room, and none is to try to follow me. It is a command. Buenas noches, Caballeros.' He bowed before them, swung the door open and darted through it, and slammed it shut behind him. They could hear the clatter of a horse's hoofs on the driveway. And then they raised their wine-mugs and drank to their new league for the suppression of swindlers and thieves, and to Senor Zorro, the curse of Capistrano, and to Don Alejandro Vega, somewhat sobered by the agreement they had made, and what it meant. They sat down again, and began speaking of wrongs that should be righted, each of them knowing half a dozen. Don Alejandro Vega sat in one corner, by himself, a grief-stricken man, because his only son was asleep in the house, and had not read blood enough to take apart in such an undertaking, when by all rights he should be one of the leaders. As if to add to his misery, Don Diego at that moment came slowly into the room, rubbing his eyes and yawning, and looking as if he had been disturbed. "'It is impossible for a man to sleep in this house tonight.' he said. "'Give me a mug of wine, and I shall take my place with you. Why was the cheering?' "'Senor Zorro has been here.' His father began. "'The highwayman, been here, by the saints! It is as much as a man can endure.' "'Sit down, my son,' Don Alejandro urged. "'Certain things have come to pass. There will be a chance now for you to show what sort of blood flows in your veins. Don Alejandro's manner was very determined.' The Remainder of the Night was spent by the Caballeros in loud boasts of what they intended doing, and in making plans to be submitted to Sr. Zorro for his approval, and, though they appeared to look upon this thing as a lark and a means to adventure, yet there was an undercurrent of seriousness in their manner, for they knew well the state of the times, and realized that things were not as they should be, and in reality they were exponents of fairness to all. They had thought of these things often, but had made no move because they had not been banded together, and had no leader, and each young Caballero waited for another to start the thing. But now this Sr. Zorro had struck at the psychological moment, and things could be done.' Don Diego was informed of the state of affairs, and his father informed him, likewise, that he was to play a part and prove himself a man. Don Diego fumed considerably, and declared that such a thing would cause his death, yet he would do it for his father's sake. Early in the morning the Caballeros ate a meal that Don Alejandro caused to be prepared, and then they started back to Reina de Los Angeles, Don Diego riding with them at his father's order. Nothing was to be said about their plans. They were to get recruits from the remainder of the Thirty who had set out in pursuit of Sr. Zorro. Some would join them readily, they knew, while others were the Governor's men, pure and simple, and would have to be kept in the dark concerning the thing contemplated. They rode leisurely, for which Don Diego remarked that he was grateful. Bernardo was still following him on the mule, and was a little chagrined because Don Diego had not remained longer at his father's house. Bernardo knew something momentous was being planned, but could not guess what, of course, and wished that he was like other men and could hear and speak. When they reached the plaza they found that the other two parties already were there, saying that they had not come up with the High Woman. Some declared that they had seen him in the distance, and one that he had fired a pistol at him, at which the Caballeros who had been at Don Alejandro's put their tongues and their cheeks and looked at one another in a peculiar manner. Don Diego left his companions and hurried to his house, where he donned fresh clothing and refreshed himself generally. He sent Bernardo about his business, which was to sit in the kitchen and await his master's call, and then he ordered his carriage around. That carriage was one of the most gorgeous along El Camino Real, and why Don Diego had purchased it had always been a mystery. There were some who said he did it to show his wealth, while others declared a manufacturer's agent had worried him so much that Don Diego had given him the order to be rid of him. Don Diego came from his house dressed in his best, but he did not get into the carriage. Then there was a tumult in the plaza, and into it rode Sargeant Pedro Gonzales and his troopers. The man, Captain Ramon had sent after them, had overtaken them easily, for they had been riding slowly and had not covered many miles. Ah! Don Diego! My friend! Gonzales cried, Still leaving in this turbulent world! From necessity, Don Diego replied, Did you capture this Señor Zorro? The pretty bird escaped us, Caballero. It appears that he turned towards San Gabriel that night, while we went chasing him towards Pala. Ah! Well, it is nothing to make a small mistake. Our revenge shall be the greater when we find him. What do you do now, my Sargeant? My men refreshed themselves, and then we ride towards San Gabriel. It is said the Highwomen is in that vicinity, though some thirty young men of blood failed to find him last night after he had caused the magistrado to be whipped. No doubt he hid himself in the brush and chuckled when the Caballeros rode by. May your horse have speed and your sword-arm strength! Don Diego said, and got into his carriage. Two magnificent horses were hitched to the carriage, and a native coachman in rich livery drove them. Don Diego stretched back on the cushions and half closed his eyes as the carriage started. The driver went across the plaza and turned into the highway, and started toward the Hacienda of Don Carlos Pulido. Sitting on his veranda, Don Carlos saw the gorgeous carriage approaching, and growled low down in his throat, and then got up and hurried into the house to face his wife and daughter. Senorita, Don Diego comes, he said. I have spoken words regarding the young men, and I trust that you have given heed to them as a dutiful daughter should. Then he turned and went out to the veranda again, and the senorita rushed into her room and threw herself upon a couch to weep. The Saints knew she wished that she could feel some love for Don Diego and take him for a husband, for it would help her father's fortunes, yet she felt that she could not. Why did not the man act the caballero? Why did he not exhibit a certain measure of common sense? Why did he not show that he was a young man bursting with health, instead of acting like an aged Don with one foot in the grave? Don Diego got from the carriage and waved to the driver to continue to the stable-yard. He greeted Don Carlos languidly, and Don Carlos was surprised to note that Don Diego had a guitar beneath one arm. He put the guitar down on the floor, removed his sombrero, and sighed. I have been out to see my father, he said. Ha! Don Alejandro is well, I hope. He is in excellent health, as usual. He has instructed me to persist in my suit for the senorita Lolita's hand. If I do not win me a wife within a certain time, he says, he will give his fortune to the Franciscans when he passes away. Indeed. He said it, and my father is not a man to waste his words. Ah! Don Carlos, I must win the senorita. I know of no other young woman who would be acceptable to my father as a daughter-in-law.  Be not so mad or a fact, I pray. I have decided to woo as other men, though it no doubt will be much of a bore. How would you suggest that I start? It is difficult to give advice in such a case. Don Carlos replied, trying desperately to remember how he had done it when he had courted Donia Catalina. A man really should be experienced. Else a man to whom such things come, naturally. I fear I am neither. Don Diego said, sighing again and raising tired eyes to Don Carlos's face. It might be an excellent thing to regard the senorita as if you adored her. Say nothing about marriage at first, but speak rather of love. Try to talk in low, rich tones, and say those meaningless nothings in which a young woman can find a world of meaning. Tis a gentle art, saying one thing and meaning another. I fear that is beyond me, Don Diego said. Yet I must try, of course. I may see the senorita now. Don Carlos went to the doorway and called his wife and daughter, and the former smiled upon Don Diego in encouragement, and the latter smiled also, yet with fear and trembling. For she had given her heart to the unknown senor Zorro and could love no other man, and could not wed where she did not love, but even to save her father from poverty. Don Diego conducted the senorita to a bench at one end of the veranda, and started to talk of things in general, plucking at the strings of his guitar as he did so, while Don Carlos and his wife removed themselves to the other end of the veranda and hoped that things would go well. Senorita Lolita was glad that Don Diego did not speak of marriage as he had done before. But he told of what had happened in the Pueblo, a fray Felipe's whipping, and of how Senor Zorro had punished the magistrado, and fought a dozen men, and made his escape. Despite his air of languor, Don Diego spoke in an interesting manner, and the senorita found herself liking him more than before. He told, too, of how he had gone to his father's hacienda, and of how the caballeros had spent the night there, drinking and making merry. But he said nothing of Senor Zorro's visit, and the leagues that had been formed, having taken his oath not to do so. My father threatens to disinherit me if I do not get me a wife within a specified time. Don Diego said then, Would you like to see me lose my father's estate, senorita? Certainly not, she replied. There are many girls who would be proud to wed you, Don Diego. But not you? Certainly, I would be proud. But can a girl help it if her heart does not speak? Would you wish a wife who did not love you? Think of the long years you would have to spend beside her, and no love to make them indurable. You do not think, then, that you could ever learn to love me, senorita? Certainly the girl faced him and spoke in lower tones, and earnestly.  I may trust you. To death, senorita! Then I have something to tell you, and I ask that you let it remain your secret. It is an explanation, in a way. Proceed, senorita. If my heart made me do so, nothing would please me more than to become your wife, senor. For I know that it would mend my father's fortunes. But perhaps I am too honest to wed where I do not love. There is one great reason why I cannot love you. There is some other man in your heart. You have guessed it, senor. My heart is filled with his image. You would not want me for a wife in such a case? My parents do not know. You must keep my secret. I swear by the saints that I have spoken the truth. The man is worthy? I feel sure that he is, caballero. Did he prove to be otherwise I should grieve my life away? Yet I could never love another man. You understand now? I understand fully, senorita. May I express the hope that you will find him worthy? And in time, the man of your choice? I knew you would be the true caballero. And if things should go amiss and you need a friend, command me, senorita. My father must not suspect at the present time. We must let him think that you still seek me, and I will pretend to be thinking more of you than before, and gradually you will see sure visits. I understand, senorita. But that leaves me in bad case. I have asked your father for permission to woo you, and if I go to wooing another girl now, I will have him about my ears in just anger. And if I do not woo another girl, I shall have my own father upbraiding me. It is a sorry state. Perhaps he will not be for long, senor. Ha! I have it. What does a man do when he is disappointed in love? He mopes. He pulls a long face. He refuses to partake of the actions and excitements of the times. Senorita, you have saved me in a way. I shall languish because you do not return my love. Then men will think they know the reason when I dream in the sun and meditate instead of writing and fighting like a fool. I shall be allowed to go my way in peace, and there shall be a romantic glamour cast about me. An excellent thought. Senor, you are incorrigible," the senorita Lolita exclaimed, laughing. Don Carlos and Donia Catalina heard that laugh, looked around, and then exchanged quick glances. Don Diego Vega was getting along famously with the senorita, they thought. Then Don Diego continued the deception by playing his guitar and singing a verse of a song that had to do with bright eyes and love. Then Carlos and his wife glanced at each other again, this time in apprehension, and wished that he would stop, for the scion of the vegas had many superiors as musician and vocalist, and they feared that he might lose what ground he had gained in the senorita's estimation. But if Lolita thought little of the caballeros singing, she said nothing to that effect, and she did not act displeased.  From the turn in the driveway he waved back at them. Chapter 27 Of the Mark of Zorro This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. This recording is by Mark Smith of Simpsonville, South Carolina. The Mark of Zorro by Johnston McCully, Chapter 27, Orders for Arrest Captain Ramon's Courier, sent north with the letter for the governor, had dreams of gay times in San Francisco de Assis before returning to his Presidio at Reina de Los Angeles. He knew a certain senorita there whose beauty caused his heart to burn. So he rode like a fiend after leaving his commandante's office, changed mounts at San Fernando and at a hacienda along the way, and galloped into Santa Barbara a certain evening just at dusk, with the intention of changing horses again, getting mead and bread and wine at the Presidio, and rushing on his way. And at Santa Barbara his hopes of basking in the senoritas' smiles at San Francisco de Assis were cruelly shattered. For before the door of the Presidio there was a gorgeous carriage that made Don Diego's appear like a caretta, and a score of horses were tethered there, and more troopers than were stationed at Santa Barbara regularly moved about the highway, laughing and jesting with one another. The governor was in Santa Barbara. His excellency had left San Francisco de Assis some days before on a trip of inspection and intended to go as far south as San Diego de Acala, strengthening his political fences, rewarding his friends, and awarding punishment to his enemies. He had reached Santa Barbara an hour before, and was listening to the report of the commandante there, after which he intended remaining during the night with a friend. His troopers were to be given quarters at the Presidio, of course, and the journey was to continue on the morrow. Captain Ramon's courier had been told that the letter he carried was of the utmost importance, and so he hurried to the office of the commandante, and entered it like a man of rank. I come from Captain Ramon, commandante at Reina de Los Angeles, with a letter of importance for his excellency. He reported, standing stiffly at salute. The governor grunted and took the letter, and the commandante motioned for the courier to withdraw. His excellency read the letter with speed, and when he had finished there was an unholy gleam in his eyes, and he twirled his mustache with every evidence of keen satisfaction. And then he read the letter again, and frowned. He liked the thought that he could crush Don Carlos Pulido more, but he disliked to think that Sr. Zorro, the man who had affronted him, was still at liberty. He got up and paced the floor for a time, and then whirled upon the commandante. I shall leave for the south at sunrise. He said, my presence is urgently needed at Reina de Los Angeles. You will attend to things. Tell that courier he shall ride back with my escort. I go now to the house of my friend. And so in the morning the governor started south, his escort of twenty picked troopers surrounding him, the courier in their midst. He traveled swiftly, and on a certain day at mid-morning entered the plaza of Reina de Los Angeles unheralded. It was the same morning that Don Diego rode to the Pulido Hacienda in his carriage, taking his guitar with him. The cavalcade stopped before the tavern, and the fat landlord almost suffered an apoplexy because he had not been warned of the governor's coming, and was afraid he would enter the inn and find it in a dirty state. But the governor made no effort to leave his carriage and enter the tavern. He was glancing around the square, observing many things. He never felt secure concerning the men of rank in this pueblo. He felt that he did not have the proper grip on them. Now he watched carefully as news of his arrival was spread, and certain caballeros hurried to the plaza to greet him and make him welcome. He noted those who appeared to be sincere, observed those who were in no particular haste to salute him, and noticed that several were absent. Business must receive his first attention, he told them, and he must hasten up to the prosidio. After that he would gladly be the guest of any of them. He accepted an invitation and ordered his driver to proceed. He was remembering Captain Ramon's letter, and he had not seen Don Diego Vega in the plaza. Sergeant Gonzales and his men were away pursuing Sr. Zorro, of course, and so Captain Ramon himself was awaiting his excellency at the prosidio entrance, and saluted him gravely, and bowed low before him, and ordered the commander of the escort to take charge of the place and police it, stationing guards in honor of the governor. He led his excellency to the private office, and the governor sat down. What is the latest news? He asked. My men were on the trail, excellency, but as I wrote, this pest of a Sr. Zorro has friends, a legion of them, I take it. My sergeant has reported that twice he found him with a band of followers. They must be broken up, killed off! The governor cried. A man of that sort always can get followers, and yet more followers, until he will be so strong that he can cause us serious trouble. Has he committed any further atrocities? He has, excellency. Yesterday a fray from San Gabriel was whipped for swindling. Sr. Zorro caught the witnesses against him on the high road, and whipped them almost to death, and then he rode into the pueblo just at dusk and had the magistrato whipped. My soldiers were away looking for him at the time. It appears that this Sr. Zorro knows the movements of my force, and always strikes where the troopers are not. Then spies are giving him warnings. It appears so, excellency. Last night some thirty young Caballeros rode after him, but did not find track of the scoundrel. They returned this morning. Was Don Diego Vega with them? He did not ride out with them, but he returned with them. It seems that they picked him up at his father's hacienda. You perhaps guess that I meant the vegas in my letter. I am convinced now, your excellency, that my suspicions in that quarter were unjust. This Sr. Zorro even invaded Don Diego's house one night when Don Diego was away. How is this? But Don Carlos Pulido and his family were there. Ha! In Don Diego's house. What is the meaning of that? It is amusing, said Captain Ramon, laughing lightly. I have heard that Don Alejandro ordered Don Diego to get him a wife. The young man is not the sort to woo women. He is lifeless. I know the man. Proceed. So he rides straight away to the hacienda of Don Carlos and asks permission to pay his addresses to Don Carlos's only daughter. Sr. Zorro was abroad, and Don Diego, going to his own hacienda on business, asked Don Carlos to come to the Pueblo with his family, where it would be safer, and occupy his house until he returned. The Pulidos could not refuse, of course, and Sr. Zorro, it appears, followed them. Ha! Go on. It is laughable that Don Diego fetched them here to escape Sr. Zorro's wrath, when in reality they are handing glove with a highwayman. Remember, this Sr. Zorro had been at the Pulido hacienda. We got word from a native, and almost caught him there. He had been eating a meal. He was hiding in a closet, and while I was alone there, and my men searching the trails, he came from the closet, ran me through the shoulder from behind, and escaped. The low scoundrel! The governor exclaimed. But do you think there will be a marriage between Don Diego and the Sr. Pulido? I imagine there would be no worry in that regard, Excellency. I am of the opinion that Don Diego's father put a flee in his ear. He probably called Don Diego's attention to the fact that Don Carlos does not stand very high with your Excellency, and that there are daughters of other men who do. At any rate, the Pulidos returned to their hacienda after Don Diego's return. Don Diego called upon me here at the Presidio, and appeared to be anxious that I would not think him a man of treason. I am glad to hear it. The Vegas are powerful. They never have been my warm friends, yet never have they raised hands against me, so I cannot complain. It is good sense to keep them friendly, if that be possible. But these Pulidos! Even the Sr. Rita appears to be giving aid to this highwayman. Captain Ramon said, She boasted to me of what she called his courage. She sneered at the soldiers. Don Carlos Pulido and some of the Freiles are protecting the man, giving him food and drink, hiding him, sending him news of the troopers' whereabouts. The Pulidos are hindering our efforts to capture the rogue. I would have taken steps, but I thought it best to inform you and await your decision. There can be but one decision in such a case, said the Governor loftily. No matter how good a man's blood may be, or what his rank, he cannot be allowed to commit treason without suffering the consequences. I had thought that Don Carlos had learned his lesson. But it appears he has not. Are any of your men in the Presidio? Some who are ill, Excellency! That courier of yours returned with my escort. Does he know the country well hereabouts? As certainly, Excellency, he has been stationed here for some little time. Then he can act as guide, send half my escort at once to the Hacienda of Don Carlos Pulido, have them arrest the Don and fetch him to Carcel and incarcerate him there. That will be a blow to his high blood. I have had quite enough of these Pulidos. And the Haudenosaunee who sneered at me, and the proud senorita who scorned the troopers. Ha! It is a good thought. It will teach a lesson to all in this locality. Have them fetched to Carcel and incarcerated also, the Governor said. CHAPTER XXVIII The Outrage Don Diego's carriage had just pulled up before his house when a squad of troopers went by it in a cloud of dust. He did not recognize any of them for men he had seen about the tavern. Ha! There are new soldiers on the trail of Sr. Zorro? He asked a man standing near. They are a part of the escort of the Governor, Caballero. The Governor is here? He arrived but a short time ago, Caballero, and has gone to the Presidio. I suppose they must have fresh news of this Highwomen to send them riding furiously through dust and sun like that. He appears to be in a loose rascal. By the Saints, had I been here when the Governor arrived, no doubt he would have put up at my house. Now some other Caballero will have the honor of entertaining him. It is much to be regretted. And then Don Diego went into the house, and the man who had heard him speak did not know whether to doubt the sincerity of that last remark. Led by the courier, who knew the way, the squad of troopers galloped swiftly along the high road and presently turned up the trail toward Don Carlos's house. They went at this business as they would have gone about capturing a desperado. As they struck the driveway they scattered to left and right, tearing up Donia Catalina's flower beds and sending chickens squawking out of the way, and so surrounded the house in almost an instant of time. Don Carlos had been sitting on the veranda in his accustomed place, half in a doze, and he did not notice the advance of the troopers until he heard the beating of the horse's hooves. He got to his feet in alarm, wondering whether Sr. Zorro was in the vicinity again and the soldiers were after him. Three dismounted in a cloud of dust before the steps, and the sergeant who commanded them made his way forward, slapping the dust from his uniform. You are Don Carlos Polito! he asked in a loud voice. I have that honor, Senor. I have ordered to place you under military arrest. Arrest! Don Carlos cried. Who gave you such orders? His Excellency the Governor. He now is in Reina de Los Angeles, Senor. And a charge? Treason, and aiding the enemies of the state. Preposterous! Don Carlos cried. I am accused of treason when, though the victim of oppression, I have withheld my hand against those in power. What are the particulars of the charges? You will have to ask the magistrado. That, Senor, I know nothing of the matter except that I am to arrest you. You wish me to accompany you? I demand it, Senor. I am a man of blood, a caballero. I have my orders. So I cannot be trusted to appear at my place of trial. But perhaps the hearing is to be held immediately. So much the better. For all the quicker can I clear myself. We go to the Presidio. I go to the Presidio when this work is done. You go to Carcel. The sergeant said. To Carcel! Don Carlos screeched. You would dare.  You would place him where they keep insubordinate natives and common felons. I have my orders, Senor. You will prepare to accompany us at once. I must give my superintended instructions regarding the management of the Hacienda. I'll go along with you, Senor. Don Carlos's face flamed purple. His hands clenched as he regarded the sergeant. Am I to be insulted with every word? He cried. Do you think I would run away like a criminal? I have my orders, Senor. The sergeant said. At least I may break this news to my wife and daughter without an outsider being at my shoulder. Your wife is Dona Catalina Pulido? Certainly. I am ordered to arrest her also, Senor. Scum! Don Carlos cried. You would put hands on a lady. You would remove her from her house? It is my orders. She too is charged with treason and with aiding the enemies of the state. By the saints. It is too much. I shall fight against you and your men as long as there is breath in my body. And that would not be for long, Don Carlos, if you attempt to give battle. I am but carrying out my orders. My beloved wife placed under arrest like a native winch. And on such a charge, what are you going to do with her, Sergeant? She goes to Carcel. My wife in that foul place. Is there no justice in the land?  Enough of the, Senor. My orders are my orders, and I carry them out as instructed. I am a soldier, and I obey. Now Don Yucatelina came running to the veranda, for she had been listening to the conversation just inside the door. Her face was white, but there was a look of pride in it. She feared Don Carlos might make an attack on the soldier, and she feared he would be wounded or slain if he did, and knew that at least it could only double the charge held against him. You have heard? Don Carlos asked. I have heard, my husband. It is but more persecution. I am too proud to argue the point with these common soldiers who are but doing as they have been commanded. A pulido can be a pulido, my husband, even in a foul Carcel. What the shame of it, Don Carlos cried. What does it all mean? Where will it end? And our daughter will be here alone with the servants. We have no relatives, no friends. Your daughter is Senorita Lolita Pulido? The Sergeant asked. Then do not grieve, Senor, for you will not be separated. I have an order for the arrest of your daughter also. The charge? The same, Senor. And you would take her to Carcel? An innocent, high-born, gentle girl. My order, Senor, said the Sergeant. May the Saints blast the man who issued them. Don Carlos cried. They have taken my wealth and lands. They have heaped shame upon me and mine. But thank the Saints they cannot break our pride.  He broke the news to the Senorita Lolita, who stood as if stricken dumb for an instant, and then burst into a torrent of tears. And then the pride of the pulidos came to her, and she dried her eyes and curled her pretty lips with scorn at the big Sergeant, and pulled aside her skirts when he stepped near. Servants brought the careta before the door, and Don Carlos and his wife and daughter got into it, and the journey of shame to the pueblo began. Their hearts might be bursting with grief, but not one of the pulidos showed it. Their heads were held high. They looked straight ahead. They pretended not to hear the lotants of the soldiers. They passed others, who were crowded off the road by the troopers, and who looked with wonder at those in the careta, but they did not speak. Some watched in sorrow, and some grinned at their plight, according to whether those who passed were of the governor's party, or of the honest folk who abhorred injustice. And so, finally, they came to the edge of Reina de Los Angeles, and there they met fresh insult. For his Excellency had determined that the pulidos should be humbled to the dust, and he had sent some of his troopers to spread news of what was being done, and to give coins to natives and peons if they would jeer the prisoners when they arrived. For the governor wished to teach a lesson that would prevent other noble families from turning against him, and wished it to appear that the pulidos were hated by all classes alike. At the edge of the plaza they were met by the mob. There were cruel jeers and jests, some of which no innocent senorita should have heard. Don Carlos's face was red with wrath, and there were tears in Donia Catalina's eyes, and senorita Lolita's lips were trembling, but they gave no other sign that they heard. The drive around the plaza to the carcel was made slow purposely. At the door of the inn there was a throng of rascals who had been drinking wine at the expense of the governor, and those added to the din. One man threw mud, and it splashed on Don Carlos's breast, but he refused to notice it. He had one arm around his wife, the other around his daughter, as if to give them what protection he could, and he was looking straight ahead. There were some men of blood who witnessed the scene, yet took no part in the tumult. Some of them were as old as Don Carlos, and this thing brought to their hearts fresh, yet passive hatred of the governor.  And some of these men glanced at one another furtively, so they did not speak, they were wondering the same thing, whether Sr. Zoro would hear of this, and whether he would send word around for the members of the new league to gather. The caretta stopped before the carcel finally, the mob of jeering natives and peons surrounding it. The soldiers made some pretense of holding them back, and the sergeant dismounted, and forced Don Carlos and his wife and daughter to step to the ground. Uncouth and intoxicated men jostled them as they walked up the steps to the door. More mud was thrown, and some of it spattered upon Donia Catalina's gown. But if the mob expected an outburst on the part of the age of Caballero, it was disappointed. Don Carlos held his head high, ignoring those who were striving to torment him, and so led his ladies to the door. The sergeant beat against it with a heavy hilt of his sword. An aperture was opened, and in it appeared the evil grinning face of the jailer. What have we here? he demanded. Three prisoners charged with treason, the sergeant replied. The door was thrown open. There came a last burst of jeers from the mob, and then the prisoners were inside, and the door had been closed and bolted again. The jailer led the way along an evil-smelling hall and threw open another door. In with you, he directed. The three prisoners were thrust inside, and this door was closed and barred. They blinked their eyes in the semi-gloom. Gradually they made out two windows, some benches, some human derelicts sprawled against the walls. They had not even been given the courtesy of a clean private room. Don Carlos and his wife and daughter had been thrust in with the scum of the pueblo, with drunkards and thieves and dishonored women and insulting natives. They sat down on a bench in one corner of the room, as far from the others as possible, and then Donia Catalina and her daughter gave way to tears, and tears streamed down the face of the aged Don as he tried to comfort them. I would to the saints that Don Diego Vega were only my son-in-law now. The Don breathed. His daughter pressed his arm. Perhaps, my father, a friend will come, she whispered. Perhaps the evil man who caused this suffering will be punished. For it seemed to the Sr. Rita that a vision of Sr. Zorro had appeared before her, and she had great faith in the man to whom she had given her love. End of chapter. Chapter 29 of the Mark of Zorro. This is the LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. This recording is by Mark Smith of Simpsonville, South Carolina. The Mark of Zorro by Johnston McCully. Chapter 29 Don Diego Feels Ill. One hour after Don Carlos Pulido and his ladies had been incarcerated in the car cell, Don Diego Vega, dressed most fastidiously, made his way slowly on foot up the slope to the Presidio to make his call on his Excellency the Governor. He walked with swinging stride, gazing both to right and left as if at the hills and the distance, and once he stopped to observe a blossom that bloomed beside the path. His rapier was at his side, his most fashionable one with its jeweled hilt, and in his right hand he carried a handkerchief of flimsy lace, which he wafted this way and that like a dandy, and now and then touched it to the tip of his nose. He bowed ceremoniously to two or three caballeros who passed him, what spoke to none beyond the necessary words of greeting, and they did not seek conversation with him. For, remembering that they had thought Don Diego Vega was courting the daughter of Don Carlos, they wondered how he would take the matter of her imprisonment along with their father and mother. They did not care to disgust the matter, for their own feelings were high, and they feared they might be betrayed into utterances that might be termed treasonable. Don Diego came to the front door of the Presidio and the sergeant in charge called the soldiers to attention, giving Vega the salute due his station in life. Don Diego answered it with a wave of his hand and a smile, and went on to the Comandante's office where the governor was receiving such caballeros as cared to call and express their loyalty. He greeted his Excellency with carefully chosen words, bowed over his hand, and then took the chair the governor was kind enough to indicate. Don Diego Vega, the governor said, I am doubly glad that you have called upon me today for in these times a man who holds high office would know his friends. I should have called sooner, but I was away from my house at the time you arrived. Don Diego said, you contemplate remaining long in Reina de Los Angeles, Excellency. Until this highwayman known as Sr. Zorro is either slain or taken, the governor said, by the saints am I never to hear the last of that rogue. Don Diego cried, I have heard of nothing else for these many days. I go to spend an evening with a fray, and in comes a crowd of soldiers chasing this Sr. Zorro. I repair to the hacienda of my father to get me peace and quiet, and along comes a crowd of caballeros seeking news of Sr. Zorro. These be turbulent times. A man whose nature inclines him to music and the poets has no right to exist in the present age. It desolates me that you have been annoyed, the governor said, laughing, but I hope to have the fellow soon, and so put an end to that particular annoyance. Captain Ramon has sent for his big sergeant at his troopers to return. I brought an escort of twenty, and so we have ample men to run down this curse of Capistrano when next he makes his appearance. Let us hope it will end as it should, said Don Diego. A man in high office has many things with which to contend. The governor went on. Look at what I was forced to do this day. I am called upon to put in prison a man of good blood, and his lady, wife, and tender daughter. But the state must be protected. I suppose you mean Don Carlos Pulido and his family? I do, Caballero. Now that it is called to my mind again, I must say a few words regarding that. Don Diego said, I am not sure that my honor is not involved. Why, Caballero, how can that be? My father has ordered that I get me a wife and set up my establishment properly. Some days ago I requested of Don Carlos Pulido permission to pay my addresses to his daughter. Ah, I understand. But you are not the betrothed of the young lady. Not yet, excellency. Then your honor is not involved, Don Diego, that I can see. But I have been paying court to her. You may thank the saints that it has gone no further, Don Diego. Think how it would look if you were allied with this family now. As for getting you a wife, come north with me to San Francisco de Assis, Caballero, where the senior readers are far more lovely than here in your Southland. Look over those of good blood and let me know your preference, and I'll guarantee that the lady will listen to your suit and accept your hand and name. And I can guarantee also that she will be of a loyal family with which it will be no shame to make a contract. We shall get you a wife of the proper sort, Caballero. If you will pardon me, is it not taking stern measures to have Don Carlos and his ladies thrown into the car-cell? Don Diego asked, flicking dust from his sleeve. I find it necessary, senior. Do you think it will add to your popularity, excellency? Whether it does or not, the state must be served. Men of good blood hate to see such a thing, and there may be murmurings, Don Diego warned. I should hate to see your excellency make a wrong step at this juncture. What would you have me do? The governor asked. Place Don Carlos and the ladies under arrest, if you will, but do not incarcerate them. It is unnecessary. They will not run away. Bring them to trial as gentle folks should be brought to trial. You are bold, Caballero. By the saints, am I talking too much? It were better to leave these matters to the few of us who are trusted with attention to them, the governor said. I can understand, of course, how it irks a man of good blood to see a Don thrown into a car-cell and to see his ladies treated likewise, but in such a case as this, I have not heard the nature of the case, Don Diego said. Ha! Perhaps you may change your mind when you learn it. You have been speaking of this, Sr. Zorro. What if I tell you that the highwayman is being shielded and protected and fed by Don Carlos Pulido? That is astonishing! And that the Donia Catalina is a party to the treason, and that the lovely Sr. Rita has seen fit to talk treasonably and dip her pretty hands into a conspiracy against the state. This is past belief, Don Diego cried. Some nights ago Sr. Zorro was at the Pulido Hacienda. Warning was fetched to the commandante by a native who is loyal. Don Carlos aided the bandit in tricking the soldiers, hid him in a closet, and when Captain Ramon was there alone, this highwayman stepped from the closet and attacked him treacherously and wounded him. By the saints! And while you were gone and the Pulidos were your house guests, Sr., Sr. Zorro was in your house, speaking to the Sr. Rita when the commandante walked in upon them. And the Sr. Rita grasped Captain Ramon by the arm and annoyed him until the Sr. Zorro had made good his escape. It is past comprehension. Don Diego exclaimed, Captain Ramon has placed before me a hundred such items of suspicion. Can you wonder now that I had them placed in Carcel? Did I merely have them put under arrest? This Sr. Zorro would combine forces with them and aid them to escape. And your intentions, Excellency? I shall keep them in Carcel while my troopers run down this highwayman. I shall force him to confess and implicate them and then they shall have a trial. These turbulent times, Don Diego complained, as a loyal man and I hope and admirer of mine, you should hope to see foes of the state confounded. I do, most sincerely do I. All real foes of the state should receive punishment. I am joyed to hear you say that, Caballero. The governor cried and he reached across the table and grasped Don Diego fervently by the hand. There was some more talk that amounted to nothing and then Don Diego took his leave for there were other men waiting to see the governor. After he had left the office, the governor looked across at Captain Ramon and smiled. You are right, Comandante, he said. Such a man could not be a traitor. It would tire him too much to think treasonable thoughts.   Don Diego made his way slowly down the hill, greeting those he passed and stopping again to regard the little flowers that blossom by the wayside. At the corner of the plaza he met a young Caballero who was glad to call him friend, one of the small band of men who had spent the night at Don Alejandro's Hacienda. Ah, Don Diego, a fair day to you, he cried, and then he lowered his voice and stepped nearer. As, by any chance, the man we call, leader of our League of Adventures, sent you a message this day. By the bright blue sky, no! Don Diego said, why should the man? This Polito business. It seems an outrage. Some of us have been wondering whether our leader does not intend to take a hand in it. We have been anticipating a message. Oh, by the saints, oh, I trust not! Don Diego said, I could not endure an adventure of any sort tonight. I, my head aches, and I fear I'm going to have a fever. I shall have to see an apothecary about it. There are shiverings up and down my spine also. Is not that a symptom? During the siesta hour, I was bothered with a pain in my left leg, just above the knee. It must be the weather. Let us hope that it will not result seriously, laughed his friend, and hurried on across the plaza. End of chapter.