He hastily threw a few things into his valise, and prepared to follow them.

When he went downstairs he informed the porter that owing to an urgent call of business he should try to catch the through express at three o'clock, but they must retain his room and luggage until they heard from him.
He remembered Don Caesar's letter.

Had either of the gentlemen, his friends who had just gone out, left a letter or message?
No, Excellency; the gentlemen were talking earnestly--he believed, in the South American language--and had not spoken to him.
Perhaps it was this that reminded Paul, as he crossed the square again, that he had made no preparation for any possible fatal issue to himself in this adventure.

SHE would know it, however, and why he had undertaken it.

He tried to think that perhaps some interest in himself had prompted her to send the colonel to him.