Half an hour later, a guard approached Carlos and spoke with due respect."Sir, we went to the professor's house, but it was empty. The place had been ransacked, as if by thieves. The captain is searching for clues, yet he cannot determine whether the man fled on his own or was taken by force."
Carlos frowned, then waved a hand dismissively."At least the man possesses enough sense to disappear. Tell the guards to abandon the search—he will not return. Also, release the father at once, and inform him that I shall cover all his son medical expenses. In addition, he is to receive a modest monthly stipend until he recovers."
The guard nodded, visibly relieved. The Gómez family's favor carried weight in New Granada; their patronage often meant supplemental pay and certain informal protections. Failing them could cost a guard company both income and standing. Fortunately, Señor Carlos appeared unwilling to press the matter further.
Carlos then turned toward José.
