But that which made him jump was the recollection that it contained the precious document, the loss of which was irreparable, as it carried with it that of all his hopes.
"Botheration!" said he.
And at the moment, cost what it might to recapture his case, Torres threw himself in pursuit of the guariba.
He knew that to reach such an active animal was not easy.

On the ground he could get away too fast, in the branches he could get away too far.

A well-aimed gunshot could alone stop him as he ran or climbed, but Torres possessed no firearm.

His sword-knife and hoe were useless unless he could get near enough to hit him.
It soon became evident that the monkey could not be reached unless by surprise.

Hence Torres found it necessary to employ cunning in dealing with the mischievous animal.