Taking advantage of the distraction caused by Quackenboss and his
troubles, I despatched the black upon his interesting errand, and with
no slight anxiety awaited the result.
From my position on the roof, I saw my messenger climb the hill, leading
the proud steed, and saw him enter the great portal of the hacienda.
Promptly--almost directly--the groom came out again _without_ the horse.
The present had been accepted. So far well.
I counted the moments, till heavy footsteps were heard upon the
escalera, and a shining black face rose over the roof.