"Suppose that he agrees to carry our cry even to the Captain-General, suppose that he finds in the Cortes [126] delegates who will plead for us; do you think that we shall get justice ?" "Let us try it before we resort to violent measure," answered Elias.

"You must be surprised that I, another unfortunate, young and strong, should propose to you, old and weak, peaceful measures, but it's because I've seen as much misery caused by us as by the tyrants.

The defenseless are the ones who pay." "And if we accomplish nothing ?" "Something we shall accomplish, believe me, for all those who are in power are not unjust.

But if we accomplish nothing, if they disregard our entreaties, if man has become deaf to the cry of sorrow from his kind, then I will put myself under your orders!" The old man embraced the youth enthusiastically.

"I accept your proposition, Elias.