One of them was a stout square-built man, with a singularly swarthy complexion, and harsh forbidding features.

He was well mounted, as was his companion; and had pistols in his holsters, and a hanger at his girdle.

The other individual, who was a little in advance, was concealed from the stranger's view.

Presently, however, a sudden movement occurred, and disclosed his features, which were those of a young man of nearly his own age.

The dress of this person was excessively showy, and consisted of a scarlet riding-habit, lined and faced with blue, and bedizened with broad gold lace, a green silk-knit waistcoat, embroidered with silver, and decorated with a deep fringe, together with a hat tricked out in the same gaudy style.