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Altsheler, Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander), 1862-1919

"The Free Rangers A Story of the Early Days Along the Mississippi"


"I see what your choice would be if you were compelled to choose between
Bernardo Galvez and Francisco Alvarez," he said. "It may be that you will
have to make such a choice, and I will tell you, too, that the boat did
belong to the Captain Alvarez. We took it from him because, first, he made
an outrageous attack upon us; secondly, he is plotting to set all the
Indian tribes upon us in Kentucky, aided with Spanish soldiers and Spanish
guns, and, thirdly, he hopes to become Governor General of Louisiana, and
commit Spain to an alliance with England in the war upon the Americans."
Henry spoke boldly and earnestly, and the others nodded assent.
Lieutenant Diego Bernal, a trim, dandified little man, drew forth from the
pocket of his waistcoat a small gold snuff box and delicately took a pinch
of snuff, a habit to which the five were unaccustomed.
"Speak it low, my friend," he said deliberately. "All this, if it be true,
is great news, and you do right in coming to New Orleans to see Bernardo
Galvez. Can you prove it when you see the Governor General?"
"We can give proofs," replied Henry guardedly.
"It is well, and I am pleased that I have met you. Know then that I am the
enemy of Francisco Alvarez, and that I may aid you.


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