"That is certainly a very boastful claim," he said, "but one not to be believed for a moment.

Think you, sir, that such a number of Spaniards could be killed without my knowledge?
or that, in any case, one man could thus overcome the brave, experienced, and well-armed soldiers of Spain?
Your credulity, senor, is refreshing.

Also I have no hesitation in telling you that ever since I took command of the eastern diocese, this man, recommended to me by my predecessor in office, has been the most faithful and valuable of my secret agents among the Cubans.

Time and again he has furnished early information of important events which has subsequently proved correct in every detail.

With such a record in his favor, am I now to doubt him upon the mere word of a stranger?
No, senor, the honor of a Spaniard forbids.