“You are sure that they won’t leave before dawn?”
“The captain gave me his word on it.”
“Then I accept your kind invitation. All we had on the trail were some cold tortillas.”
“We will have carne asada. That will stick to your ribs. You know you can leave your horse with me if you want to.”
“You are kind to offer. But Miguel will take her with him back to his village. He has done it before. He is loyal and strong.”
Pablo nodded, drove the cork into the mezcal bottle and passed it over. “Take this as well. You will need its warmth where you are going.”
They ate quickly. When they had done they left, Pablo locking the door behind them, then leading the way down along the docks. To the grimy side-wheeler tied up at the very last berth. They said their quick goodbyes and Don Ambrosio climbed up the gangplank to the deserted deck. It seemed to be empty — then he saw the glow of a cigar in the shadow of the pilot house. The man in the uniform cap stepped forward and looked suspiciously at the newcomer.
“What are you doing on this ship? Speak up. Habla usted inglés?”
“Indeed I do, sir, indeed I do speak English. Now tell me, if you would be so kind, is it the noble captain of this fine vessel that I am speaking to?”
“Aye.”
“Then I am the man that you have been expecting.”
“Mr. O’Higgins?”
“None other. Thank you for waiting so long for me — but your wait is at end. If you have no other reasons to stay in this port, might I suggest that we cast off as soon as possible. I have with me information of the greatest importance.”
The captain was bellowing orders even before Don Ambrosio O’Higgins had finished speaking. Down in the engine room coal was shoveled liberally over the banked fires. A sailor jumped ashore and cast off the line, swung back onto the ship as she drifted away from her berth. As soon as steam was raised the big paddlewheels slowly turned, then faster and faster as they thrashed their way out of the harbor. As soon as they were out in the open sea, well clear of the land, the flag was raised on the stern.