Chapter I: Preface

The present is the most powerful story which Gustave Aimard has yet written. While there is enough of startling incident and hairbreadth escapes to satisfy the greatest craver after sensation, the plot is carefully elaborated, and great attention is paid to developing the character of the heroines. If there has been any fault in the author's previous works, it is that the ladies introduced are too subordinate; but in the present tale, the primary interest hinges upon them, and they are the most prominent characters. For this reason I am inclined to believe that the "Smuggler Chief" will become a greater favourite with readers than any of its predecessors.

Lascelles Wraxall, Bart.

CONTENTS.

I. THE PROCESSION
II. THE COUNTRY HOUSE
III. THE CONVENT OF THE PURÍSIMA CONCEPCIÓN
IV. THE SMUGGLERS
V. THE INCA OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY
VI. THE BANIAN'S HOUSE
VII. THE NOVICE
VIII. A VISIT TO THE CONVENT
IX. ON THE SIERRA
X. INSIDE THE TENT
XI. THE SONS OF THE TORTOISE
XII. A HUMAN SACRIFICE
XIII. THE BALAS RUBY
XIV. THE RUPTURE
XV. A FIRST LOSS
XVI. THE PARUMO DE SAN JUAN BAUTISTA
XVII. THE ABDUCTION
XVIII. AFTER THE COMBAT
XIX. THE MANHUNT
XX. THE REDSKINS
XXI. THE INDIAN CITY
XXII. THE JAGOUAS OF THE HUILICHES
XXIII. A MIRACULOUS CURE
XXIV. THE RUINS OF THE HACIENDA
XXV. THE ARREST
XXVI. THE SCALP
XXVII. THE CAPTURE OF THE CONVENT
XXVIII. AN INDIAN VENGEANCE
XXIX. THE GREEN ROOM
XXX. THE CONFESSION
XXXI. THE CAMP OF THE MOLUCHOS
XXXII. THE SACK OF SANTIAGO