CHAPTER XXXV.
A NOVEL WAGER.
Three days afterward Carmen, apprised by his wife of my arrival, returned to Caracas, and I became their guest, greatly to my satisfaction, for the duel with Griscelli, besides making me temporarily famous, had brought me so many friends and invitations that I knew not how to dispose of them.
In discussing the incident with Salvador, I expressed surprise that Griscelli should have dared to return to a country where he had committed so many cruelties and made so many enemies.
"He left Venezuela the year after you disappeared, and much is forgotten in ten years," was the answer.

"All the same, I don't suppose he would have come back if Olivarez--the last president and a Yellow--had not made it known that he would bestow commissions on Spanish officers of distinction and give them commands in the national army.

It was a most absurd proceeding.

But we shot Olivarez three months ago, and I will see that these Spanish interlopers are sent out of the country forthwith, that young spark who threatens to murder you, included." "Let him stay if he likes.

I doubt whether he meant what he said." "I have no doubt of it, whatever, _amigo mio_, and he shall go.