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diff --git a/19538-h/19538-h.htm b/19538-h/19538-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8d04cc1 --- /dev/null +++ b/19538-h/19538-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,10906 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=iso-8859-1" /> + <title> + The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Broncho Rider Boys with Funston at Vera Cruz, by Frank Fowler. + </title> + <style type="text/css"> +/*<![CDATA[ XML blockout */ +<!-- + p { margin-top: .75em; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; + } + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { + text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ + clear: both; + } + hr { width: 33%; + margin-top: 2em; + margin-bottom: 2em; + margin-left: auto; + margin-right: auto; + clear: both; + } + + table {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} + + body{margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + } + + .pagenum { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */ + /* visibility: hidden; */ + position: absolute; right: 2%; + font-size: 75%; + text-align: right; + text-indent: 0em; + font-style: normal; + font-weight: normal; + color: silver; background-color: inherit; + font-variant: normal;} /* page numbers */ + + .pagenum a {text-decoration: none; color: silver; background-color: inherit;} + + .blockquot{margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 10%;} + + .center {text-align: center;} + .smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} + + .caption {font-weight: bold;} + + .figcenter {margin: auto; text-align: center;} + + .toc a {text-decoration: none;} + .letter {text-align: right;} + + // --> + /* XML end ]]>*/ + </style> + </head> +<body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Broncho Rider Boys with Funston at Vera +Cruz, by Frank Fowler + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Broncho Rider Boys with Funston at Vera Cruz + Or, Upholding the Honor of the Stars and Stripes + +Author: Frank Fowler + +Release Date: October 14, 2006 [EBook #19538] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BRONCHO RIDER BOYS WITH *** + + + + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Suzan Flanagan and the +Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net + + + + + + +</pre> + + + + +<div class="figcenter" style="width: 275px;"> +<img src="images/cover258tn.jpg" width="275" height="329" alt="Cover" title="Cover" /> +</div> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + +<div class="figcenter" style="width: 275px;"> +<img src="images/frontis257tn.jpg" width="275" height="427" alt="Frontispiece" title="Frontispiece" /> +<span class="caption">"THIS IS NO PLACE FOR ME," COMMENTED BILLIE AS HE KEPT HIMSELF WELL HIDDEN BEHIND A GIANT CACTUS.<br /> <i>The Broncho Rider Boys with Funston at Vera Cruz. Page 33.</i></span> +</div> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1" href="#Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p> +<h2>The Broncho Rider Boys<br /> +With Funston at Vera Cruz</h2> + +<h4>OR</h4> + +<h4>Upholding the Honor of the Stars and Stripes</h4> + +<h3>By FRANK FOWLER</h3> + +<h4>AUTHOR OF</h4> + + +<h4>"The Broncho Rider Boys with the Texas Rangers," "The Broncho<br /> +Rider Boys at Keystone Ranch," "The Broncho Rider<br /> +Boys Down in Arizona," "The Broncho Rider Boys<br /> +Along the Border," "The Broncho Rider<br /> +Boys on the Wyoming Trail."</h4> + + +<div class="figcenter" style="width: 404px;"> +<img src="images/illus2tn.jpg" width="404" height="200" alt="Illustration" title="Illustration" /> +</div> + + +<h2>A. L. BURT COMPANY</h2> +<h3>NEW YORK.</h3> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2" href="#Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span></p> + +<h4>Copyright, 1916</h4> +<h4><span class="smcap">By A. L. Burt Company</span></h4> + +<h4>THE BRONCHO RIDER BOYS WITH FUNSTON AT VERA CRUZ</h4> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + +<h2>Table of Contents</h2> +<div class='center'> +<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary="Table of Contents" class="toc a"> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_I"><b>CHAPTER I.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XII"><b>CHAPTER XII.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXII"><b>CHAPTER XXII.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_II"><b>CHAPTER II.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII"><b>CHAPTER XIII.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII"><b>CHAPTER XXIII.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_III"><b>CHAPTER III.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XIV"><b>CHAPTER XIV.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV"><b>CHAPTER XXIV.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_IV"><b>CHAPTER IV.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XV"><b>CHAPTER XV.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXV"><b>CHAPTER XXV.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_V"><b>CHAPTER V.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XVI"><b>CHAPTER XVI.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI"><b>CHAPTER XXVI.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_VI"><b>CHAPTER VI.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XVII"><b>CHAPTER XVII.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII"><b>CHAPTER XXVII.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_VII"><b>CHAPTER VII.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII"><b>CHAPTER XVIII.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII"><b>CHAPTER XXVIII.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII"><b>CHAPTER VIII.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XIX"><b>CHAPTER XIX.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX"><b>CHAPTER XXIX.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_IX"><b>CHAPTER IX.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XX"><b>CHAPTER XX.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXX"><b>CHAPTER XXX.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_X"><b>CHAPTER X.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXI"><b>CHAPTER XXI.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXI"><b>CHAPTER XXXI.</b></a></td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td align='left'><a href="#CHAPTER_XI"><b>CHAPTER XI.</b></a></td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'> </td> + <td align='left'> </td> + </tr> +</table></div> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3" href="#Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p> +<h1>THE BRONCHO RIDER BOYS WITH<br /> +FUNSTON AT VERA CRUZ.</h1> + +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2> + +<h3>A DARING ADVENTURE.</h3> + + +<p>"Let me look, Billie," and Donald reached out +his hand for the field glass through which Broncho +Billie was gazing down from the summit of Real +del Monte upon the plain of Quesco, through which +the Pachuca river winds its way. "Maybe I can +make out who they are."</p> + +<p>Billie handed over the glass without a word and +stood expectant, while Donald scrutinized closely +a body of horsemen—twenty or more in number—which +had halted beside the railroad that connects +the little city of Pachuca with the City of Mexico.</p> + +<p>"They are not soldiers, that's certain," was Donald's +comment after he had inspected the riders carefully +for a couple of minutes.</p> + +<p>"That's what I thought," from Billie. "They +look like a bunch of <i>vaqueros</i> to me; but what +would a crowd of fifty cowpunchers be doing in a +country where the only cattle are goats?"</p> + +<p>"That's right!" laughed Donald, greatly amused<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4" href="#Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span> +at Billie's odd expression, "but still that is what they +appear to be. Perhaps they are expecting a drove +of cattle up on the train."</p> + +<p>"More likely they are expecting a load of bullion +going down to the City of Mexico," remarked the +third of the party. "What do you think, Pedro?" +turning to the fourth of the boys who composed the +quartette.</p> + +<p>"I am afraid you are right, Adrian," replied +Pedro, with an accent which denoted that of the +four he was the only one who was not of an English-speaking +race.</p> + +<p>"You don't think they would hold up a train in +broad daylight, and that not more than five miles +from town, do you?" queried Billie.</p> + +<p>"If they are what I suspect," declared Pedro, "I +think they would hold it up at the station, if there +were only a few more of them."</p> + +<p>"And what do you think they are?"</p> + +<p>"I think they are Zapatistas."</p> + +<p>"What are they?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"Followers of the bandit leader, Emilio Zapata."</p> + +<p>"Which side does he belong to?" asked Adrian. +"Huerta or Carranza?"</p> + +<p>"Neither. He is simply a bandit, and his followers +prey upon any whom they find unprotected."</p> + +<p>"And do you really think they are going to hold +up and rob the train from Pachuca?"</p> + +<p>"<i>Sin duda!</i>" meaning without doubt.</p> + +<p>"Then we must prevent them," declared Donald<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5" href="#Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span> +emphatically.</p> + +<p>"What business is it of ours?" asked Billie. "If +one bunch of Mexicans wants to rob another bunch, +especially if the second bunch are Huertistas, I +don't know that it is for us to interfere. I'm not +looking for trouble."</p> + +<p>"You're not afraid, are you? If——"</p> + +<p>"Say, Don," interrupted Billie, "what's the use of +always asking such foolish questions? If I remember +rightly, the last time you asked me that question +was up on the Rio Grande a year ago, about the +time that I was swimming rivers and breaking into +prisons with the Texas Rangers to get you and Ad +out of trouble. Now why——"</p> + +<p>Donald held up both hands.</p> + +<p>"That's enough, Billie," he laughed. "I'll take +it all back. Of course you're not afraid. But I +insist we must prevent this hold-up."</p> + +<p>"And again I ask, why?"</p> + +<p>"Because there may be women and children on +the train and——"</p> + +<p>"That's enough," exclaimed Billie. "You needn't +go on with the rest. But what's the plan? We're +a good ten miles from those chaps—unless we had +an airship."</p> + +<p>"And then how far do you think it is?" queried +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Well," replied Billie slowly, as he squinted up +one eye, "I should say they are about four miles +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6" href="#Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> +away as the crow flies. But we are not crows. By +the Real road, it is at least ten miles."</p> + +<p>"There must be a short cut somewhere," insisted +Donald.</p> + +<p>"There is," explained Pedro. "Just around the +next turn in the road there is a goat path that leads +down to the river. If you are not afraid of getting +wet——"</p> + +<p>"There you go," laughed Billie. "Afraid of getting +wet! Just let's settle it once for all that we +are not afraid of anything that it is right for us +to do."</p> + +<p>Pedro laughed good-naturedly.</p> + +<p>"Well, then, since we are not afraid of getting +wet, we can follow the river for about two miles +by fording it several times, and emerge on the +plain a mile this side of the clump of trees which +hides those fellows from the highway."</p> + +<p>"And then what?" from Billie.</p> + +<p>"That is as far as I've gone."</p> + +<p>"Then you'll have to do better. Just as soon +as we emerge from behind those trees, we'll be a +fair target. Four against twenty is 'most too much +on an open plain."</p> + +<p>For several minutes no one spoke. It was Adrian +who broke the silence.</p> + +<p>"I think I see a way, not only to save the train, +but possibly to capture the bandits."</p> + +<p>The boys looked up in surprise.</p> + +<p>"Do you notice how the railroad curves in toward +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7" href="#Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span> +the hills just after it crosses the river bridge?" he +continued, pointing out the place he meant.</p> + +<p>"Sure, we see it," from Billie.</p> + +<p>"Well, when we leave the river, instead of riding +toward that bunch of trees, we'll ride the other way. +That will bring us to the railroad track near the +curve. Then we'll ride up the track. If we do +not reach the station before the train leaves, we +can flag it. There is sure to be at least half a dozen +guards aboard. We will make ten. Most of the +men aboard will have revolvers. The result will be +that instead of the bandits taking the train by surprise, +we will take them by surprise, and——"</p> + +<p>"And the army that takes the other by surprise +wins," finished Billie, taking off his sombrero and +bowing to Adrian in mock gravity. Then to Pedro, +"Let the scout lead the way and the army will +fall in behind, with the general at the head."</p> + +<p>A laugh followed Billie's words, and putting +spurs to their horses, the four lads dashed down +the mountain road upon their self-appointed mission, +which was by no means the first daring adventure +in which they had engaged; for the stories +of the doings of the three American lads in the +quartette have furnished interesting reading for +thousands of American boys.</p> + +<p>It is because of their numerous adventures and +their skill as horsemen that the trio has become +known as the Broncho Rider Boys. Their names +are Donald Mackay, Adrian Sherwood and William +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8" href="#Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span> +Stonewall Jackson Winkle, better known as +"Broncho Billie." This latter name was given him +some two years before when he went to visit his +cousin Donald at the latter's home on the Keystone +Ranch in Wyoming. It was not given him because +he was such an expert rider, but because he could +fall from his broncho pony easier than any boy +in that section. Rotund in appearance, he was as +jolly as he was fat, and his chief failing was his appetite. +No matter what the hour, no one ever mentioned +eats that Billie was not hungry.</p> + +<p>When he first came West he was supposed to be +in poor health. It speedily developed that such was +not the case. He was simply hungry. Months in +the open air had enabled him to eat without fear +and he was now about the most robust specimen of +boy that any one ever saw.</p> + +<p>Donald, the oldest of the trio, was one of those +level-headed chaps who had a knack of doing the +right thing at the right time. His judgment had +been proven good in many a tight place and under +many thrilling conditions. As a result, he was generally +looked up to as a leader by the others, although +it must be admitted that Adrian was also +a lad of sense and plenty of nerve.</p> + +<p>Adrian was the owner of a large Wyoming ranch, +and one of the books which has proved most interesting +to American boys is known as The Broncho +Rider Boys on the Wyoming Trail, a story of how +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9" href="#Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span> +Adrian saved his property from being taken away +from him by a dishonest uncle.</p> + +<p>About a year previous to the time this story +opens, these three boys had been on a trip along the +Rio Grande, when they fell in with Capt. June Peak +and a company of Texas Rangers, who had been +detailed to keep watch of the actions of a band of +cattle smugglers. Sent across the river into Mexican +territory on a secret mission, the Broncho Rider +Boys had the good fortune to rescue Pedro Sanchez, +the fourth member of the quartette, from the hands +of a band of ruffians. Pedro turned out to be the +son of Gen. Sanchez of the Mexican army, who was +visiting an uncle in northern Mexico. After a +series of thrilling adventures, which are told in full +in The Broncho Rider Boys with the Texas Rangers, +Donald, Adrian and Billie returned to their homes, +promising to visit Pedro in the City of Mexico +whenever the time was ripe.</p> + +<p>During the time that the boys were scouting in +Mexico they had learned to speak Spanish quite +well, and this knowledge had been so improved during +their visit with Pedro that they now spoke the +language well, an accomplishment which proved of +much value to them later on.</p> + +<p>About a month prior to the day upon which this +story opens, the three Americans had met by appointment +at New York City and had come to Vera +Cruz by boat and thence to the City of Mexico, +where they found everything in a greatly disturbed +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10" href="#Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span> +condition because of the revolution which had been +started some months previous by Gen. Carranza.</p> + +<p>It might be well right here to state briefly the history +of the previous few months in Mexico, so that +all may understand how it happened that none of +the four boys had a very high opinion of Gen. +Huerta, at that time dictator of Mexico.</p> + +<p>For nearly 35 years, up to 1911, Mexico had a +peaceful existence under a republican form of government. +During the last 32 years of that time +Porfirio Diaz was president. Just prior to 1912 a +revolution was begun against what had come to be +called the Diaz government, and Diaz was compelled +to flee from Mexico. The revolution was +headed by Francisco Madero, who was then made +president.</p> + +<p>In February of 1913 a revolution was started +against President Madero by Felix Diaz, nephew +of Porfirio Diaz, and the City of Mexico was attacked. +At that time Gen. Huerta was in command +of Madero's forces in the City of Mexico. He +proved a traitor to Madero, went over to Diaz, arrested +Madero and confined him in prison. Two +days later, April 22, 1913, President Madero was +shot by order of Huerta, who then declared himself +dictator. At the same time he asked that the other +nations of the earth recognize him as the head of +the Mexican government, a thing which the government +of the United States refused to do.</p> + +<p>March 26, 1913, another revolution was started, +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11" href="#Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span> +this time against Gen. Huerta by Gen. Carranza, +governor of the state of Chihuahua. This revolution +had been in progress more than a year when +this story opens.</p> + +<p>Pedro's father, Gen. Sanchez, had been a friend +of President Madero. When Madero was shot, +Gen. Sanchez fled to Pachuca where he had a large +hacienda and also owned vast interests in the silver +mines at Real del Monte, some six miles up the +mountains. Later, however, he was promised protection +by Gen. Huerta, who was anxious to have +the friendship of such a prominent man, and returned +to the City of Mexico. It was some time +after this, about March 1, 1914—when matters +had quieted down in the City of Mexico—that the +three American boys went to visit Pedro.</p> + +<p>A few days previous to the one on which we find +the four boys headed for the railroad to foil the +would-be train robbers, they had come to Pachuca, +which is located some sixty miles from the City of +Mexico, on horses furnished them by Gen. Sanchez, +to see the mines and the beautiful mountains overlooking +the plains of Quesco. Every day they took +long rides in various directions, in spite of the unsettled +condition of the country—a condition which +compelled them always to go armed with their +trusty Marlins and Colts—and that is how they +happened to be on the Real road at such an opportune +time.</p> + +<p>With these explanations, it is no wonder that +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12" href="#Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span> +the boys were keen for the adventure upon which +they were now embarked.</p> + +<p>A sharp ride of fifteen minutes brought them to +the river and into it the horses plunged. At places +it was only knee deep and at other places where they +were obliged to cross it was necessary for the horses +to swim; but this was only fun for the Broncho +Rider Boys.</p> + +<p>Half an hour after sighting the bandits, the boys +halted on the railroad track, well secreted from +their quarry by the curve before mentioned.</p> + +<p>"And none too soon," declared Donald as the +sharp whistle of the engine was heard perhaps half +a mile away.</p> + +<p>"How shall we flag her?" asked Pedro.</p> + +<p>"With that red bandana handkerchief on Billie's +neck," replied Donald as he reached over and +snatched the neckwear from its place.</p> + +<p>Springing from his horse, he ran up the track +waving the red signal as he ran.</p> + +<p>A sharp blast from the whistle a couple of minutes +later gave proof that the danger signal had +been seen, and the grinding of the brakes told that +the train was coming to a stop. Even before this +was an accomplished fact the conductor swung himself +from the front car and came running down the +track to see what was the matter, while the guards +covered the boys with their carbines.</p> + +<p>"What do you mean by stopping the train?" he +demanded angrily.</p> + +<p>Donald explained in as few words as possible.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13" href="#Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span></p> + +<p>The conductor signalled the guards to him and +told them what Donald had said.</p> + +<p>"What had we better do?" asked the conductor.</p> + +<p>"We had better go back to Pachuca for help," +replied the guards.</p> + +<p>"And let the Zapatistas escape!" exclaimed Billie +hotly. "What do you want to do that for?"</p> + +<p>"We have only six guards," the conductor explained, +"and——"</p> + +<p>"And that, with us, makes ten," interrupted +Billie.</p> + +<p>The conductor regarded the boy with surprise.</p> + +<p>"Do you mean you will join us to help capture +the bandits?"</p> + +<p>"What do you think we're here for?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"Yes," chimed in Adrian. "What do you suppose +we stopped the train for?"</p> + +<p>"But even ten are no match for twenty or more," +declared the guard.</p> + +<p>"Of course they are," said Donald, "if the twenty +are taken by surprise."</p> + +<p>"Which they will not be if we don't act pretty +quick," insisted Billie. "Come on! Let's go after +them," and he climbed up onto the car.</p> + +<p>"That's what I say," said Pedro, following Billie's +example.</p> + +<p>Without more words the others followed and +the conductor gave the signal to go ahead.</p> + +<p>"How about the horses?" asked Donald, turning<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14" href="#Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span> +to Pedro.</p> + +<p>"They'll be all right; but if we capture the Zapatistas +we'll have horses enough any way."</p> + +<p>"And if we don't," remarked Billie grimly, +"there'll be some riderless horses any way."</p> + +<p>"Let us hope that they will not be the ones we +have left behind," said Donald gravely.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2> + +<h3>A STRANGE MIX-UP.</h3> + + +<p>While the train was gathering headway the conductor +and the guards rounded up all the men they +could find on the train who were armed. There +were more than a dozen, so that in point of numbers, +the force on the train nearly equalled the +Zapatistas. These were so stationed at the windows +that they could give the would-be robbers a warm +reception.</p> + +<p>"We must use some strategy," declared Adrian, +"or we will simply succeed in killing a few and +scaring away the others. That will not be a very +brilliant deed."</p> + +<p>"No," from Donald, "but it will save the bullion. +What's your plan?"</p> + +<p>"Well, I was thinking it would be a good plan to +separate the train."</p> + +<p>"How?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15" href="#Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span></p> + +<p>"You can see it is all down grade from here to +where the bandits are waiting for us."</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"As soon as we get to running a good speed, Billie +and I will go into the express car with the three +guards. You and Pedro stay here with the other +guards and the passengers. As we near the bandits, +uncouple the train, put on the brakes and stop the +coaches. We will rush by with the engine and express +car, firing as we go——"</p> + +<p>"Which will be all right," interrupted Billie, "if +they don't ditch the engine."</p> + +<p>Adrian's face fell.</p> + +<p>"I hadn't thought of that."</p> + +<p>"Well, you'd better."</p> + +<p>After a moment Adrian's face brightened.</p> + +<p>"They might better ditch the engine and express +car than the whole train," he declared.</p> + +<p>"Right you are," from Donald. "If you and Billie +are game enough to try it, I say it is the proper +thing. If they ditch the engine, we will be back a +ways and can run down to your assistance. If they +don't ditch you, we will have them between two +fires."</p> + +<p>"Just what I thought," replied Adrian. "How +about it, Billie?"</p> + +<p>"I'm game. My head may be a little thick, but +I can see just as far through a two-inch plank as +the next one."</p> + +<p>"All right, then. Come on," and Adrian led the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16" href="#Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span> +way into the car ahead, while Donald and Pedro +stood by to uncouple as soon as they passed the +clump of trees before alluded to.</p> + +<p>Almost at the same instant several sharp blasts +from the whistle gave the danger signal, and Donald +threw over the coupling lever and put on the +brake. The coaches slowed quickly down, but the +engine and express car dashed in between the horsemen +stationed on either side of the track.</p> + +<p>Prepared for what they knew was coming, the +engineer and fireman had thrown themselves down +on the floor of the cab, while Adrian, Billie and the +three guards poured a volley into the robbers as +they passed and several horses lost their mounts.</p> + +<p>This fire was followed by a fusillade from the +horsemen and a minute later the engine, striking an +unspiked rail, rolled completely over into the ditch, +wrenching itself clear from the express car, which, +after bumping over the ties for several seconds, suddenly +ceased its antics and glided smoothly along.</p> + +<p>As by a miracle it had run completely over the +space from which the rail had been loosed and +landed upon the good track, down which it now +sped.</p> + +<p>So unexpected was the change from ties to track +that Adrian and Billie were unable for a few moments +to understand what had happened. Then +Billie rushed to the door and seized the hand brake.</p> + +<p>"Grab hold and help stop this car," he yelled to +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17" href="#Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span> +Adrian, "or there is no knowing where we'll land."</p> + +<p>Adrian hastened to obey, but the wrench that had +been given the car when the engine broke loose had +put the brake out of commission and the car sped on.</p> + +<p>The three Mexican guards now appeared on the +platform and gazed wildly up the track where they +could see the fight going on between the bandits and +their companions.</p> + +<p>"What shall we do, Señor?" asked one of them.</p> + +<p>"Search me," from Billie. "How long is this +grade?"</p> + +<p>"It is down hill all the way to Pitahaya."</p> + +<p>"How far is that?"</p> + +<p>"Ten kilometers from Pachuca."</p> + +<p>"That must be about three miles farther," said +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Correct," from Billie, "but unless it's a mighty +steep up-grade the other side of Pita-what's-its-name, +we're going so fast we'll not stop till we've +run away past it."</p> + +<p>"Well, what of it? We can coast back, can't +we?"</p> + +<p>The car gave a lurch to one side that almost +threw the boys off the platform.</p> + +<p>"We're certainly going some," called Adrian. +"Hang on!"</p> + +<p>And hang on they did until they dashed past the +little station of Pitahaya and after several minutes +began to slow down.</p> + +<p>"This is a little better," Adrian finally remarked<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18" href="#Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span> +as the car showed some sign of coming to a stop.</p> + +<p>"Yes, indeed," from Billie. "I suppose we'll +come to a dead stop soon. Do you think she'll start +back on her own hook, or shall we have to start +her?"</p> + +<p>"We'll soon see," and see they did, for a couple +of minutes later the car came to a stop.</p> + +<p>For some minutes the five occupants of the car +waited to see if it would start back down the grade. +When it did not they got off to decide what could +be done.</p> + +<p>"It's a mighty steep hill," Billie ventured. +"Looks as though the five of us ought to start it. +Let's try."</p> + +<p>The five put their shoulders against the car and +pushed with all their might, but it refused to budge.</p> + +<p>"If we only had a crowbar," said Adrian, "we +could start it in a jiffy. Suppose some of you look +in the car. There might be one there."</p> + +<p>The three Mexicans jumped to obey.</p> + +<p>Directly they appeared in the doorway with a +large claw-bar in their hands.</p> + +<p>"Will this do?" asked one.</p> + +<p>"Sure! Throw it off," said Billie, "and I'll soon +start the old caboose."</p> + +<p>Picking up the bar, Billie inserted the claw under +one of the wheels while Adrian stood with his hand +on the car rail ready to spring aboard.</p> + +<p>At the first attempt the claw slipped and nothing +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19" href="#Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span> +happened, but at the second attempt the wheels +yielded a little.</p> + +<p>"This time she'll go," Billie called. "All aboard!"</p> + +<p>Adrian sprang onto the car as Billie bore down +upon the bar and the wheels began to revolve.</p> + +<p>"Never mind the bar," cried Adrian as he saw +that Billie was raising the implement to throw it +onto the platform. "Jump aboard!"</p> + +<p>Billie started to obey, but the advice came too +late. As he dropped the bar it struck one end of a +tie, flopped over and hit him on the shin.</p> + +<p>"Wow!" he yelled, grabbing his ankle with both +hands.</p> + +<p>"Never mind your leg," shouted Adrian. "Jump +on or you'll be left."</p> + +<p>Billie tried to obey, but the car was now under +headway and although he sprinted his best, he was +soon left behind.</p> + +<p>Adrian started to jump off the car, but seeing his +intention Billie called to him not to do it.</p> + +<p>"I'll get there some time," he called. "Just tell +them I'm coming," and he stood in the middle of the +track looking ruefully after the rapidly disappearing +car.</p> + +<p>After some moments he picked up the claw-bar +and threw it spitefully into the ditch beside the +track, as much as to say, "Lay there! You're the +cause of all the trouble." Then he started slowly +after the car.</p> + +<p>In the meantime Adrian was flying as fast back +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20" href="#Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span> +toward Pachuca as he had been flying away from +it only a few minutes before. It could not have +been more than ten minutes altogether since the +wreck of the engine and Adrian figured that if the +grade were steep enough the car might gain momentum +enough to carry it back to the scene of the +trouble; but he had little hope that it would.</p> + +<p>When he shot through Pitahaya on his return +trip, however, he saw that the car was going at a +terrific rate of speed.</p> + +<p>"What do you think?" he asked one of the Mexicans. +"Do you think we'll get all the way back?"</p> + +<p>"Cierto," was the reply. "When they first built +this road they used to have mules haul the car to +the top of this hill and then turn it loose and it +would run almost to Pachuca. That was before it +had any engines."</p> + +<p>Adrian looked at the man and winked one eye +very slowly.</p> + +<p>"Señor, it is true," spoke up another. "I was a +guard at the time."</p> + +<p>Adrian could scarcely believe the statement, but +he afterward learned that the men spoke the truth.</p> + +<p>"Well, then," he said, "we had better look to +our arms, for we may need them. There is no +knowing how this affair has turned out."</p> + +<p>The advice was well taken, for as they drew near +the scene of the wreck, they saw that they were +badly needed. More than a dozen horsemen were +in sight at some distance from the wreck and with +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21" href="#Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span> +their long-range rifles were doing their best to pick +off any one who showed his head.</p> + +<p>"Our party must be out of ammunition," suggested +Adrian, "or they would give a better account +of themselves."</p> + +<p>"Our carbines would not carry that far," explained +one of the guards.</p> + +<p>"Our Marlins will," replied Adrian, and as he +spoke there were two simultaneous flashes from two +of the car windows and two of the bandits fell, one +shot from his horse and the other with his horse +shot under him.</p> + +<p>For a moment the other horsemen hesitated as +to the course they should pursue and then, putting +spurs to their horses, they dashed toward the train, +just as the express car, having reached the end of +the track, bumped onto the ties and came to a stop.</p> + +<p>"Now!" cried Adrian as the riders drew near, +firing as they came, and four shots rang out.</p> + +<p>The volley from so unexpected a quarter took +the horsemen completely by surprise, and they +pulled up with a jerk. The action proved their undoing, +for as they stood thus for a moment, they +gave those in the train the opportunity they desired +and the volley that followed turned four more riderless +horses upon the plain.</p> + +<p>It was more than flesh and blood could stand, and +the seven or eight remaining horsemen turned and +fled, followed by at least three whistling bullets +from as many Marlins.</p> + +<p>The fight was over and the bullion had been<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22" href="#Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span> +saved, but what of Broncho Billie, who had been +left at the top of the hill four miles away?</p> + +<p>That was the first question asked by Donald when +he greeted Adrian two minutes later.</p> + +<p>"Oh, he's all right," was the laughing reply. +"He's just taking a little walk for his health."</p> + +<p>But when Billie failed to put in an appearance an +hour later, the boys mounted their horses and started +up the track to meet him, leading Billie's mount +between them.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2> + +<h3>BILLIE LOSES HIS NERVE.</h3> + + +<p>Broncho Billie was not a rapid walker. In +fact, if there was any one thing in which Billie +was not a success, it was walking. He could ride +a horse all day, but when it came to depending upon +his own legs as a means of locomotion, he was a +dead failure.</p> + +<p>Therefore he walked slowly along, counting the +ties as he went.</p> + +<p>"They certainly do lay 'em thick," he mused after +some minutes. "Three hundred and one, three hundred +and two, three hundred and three, three hundred +and four, three hun——"</p> + +<p>He stopped short and looked behind him.</p> + +<p>"I sure thought I heard some one," he muttered.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23" href="#Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span> +"It must have been a bird."</p> + +<p>He turned and started forward.</p> + +<p>"Let's see, where was I? Oh, yes, three hundred +and five, three hundred and six, three hundred +and——"</p> + +<p>Again he stopped, but did not turn around. Instead +he stooped down as though to pick up a stone, +which enabled him to look backward between his +knees.</p> + +<p>He caught a movement in the grass at the edge +of the right of way.</p> + +<p>"I thought so," he muttered. "Now to find out +who it is, and what he wants."</p> + +<p>He picked up a small stone and threw it at a +tall cactus which grew near the track some distance +ahead.</p> + +<p>"Good shot," he said aloud as the stone hit the +stalk. "I wonder if I could do it again."</p> + +<p>He stooped down and picked up another stone, +taking a good look backward from his stooping +position. There was not a movement to indicate +the presence of a living thing.</p> + +<p>"This is getting on my nerves," the boy mused +as he picked up several small stones and again +walked forward. "I don't mind being followed by +a white man, but I'm a whole lot leary of these +greasers. They're bad enough when they're +friendly."</p> + +<p>Then aloud, as he threw a couple of stones: "I'll +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24" href="#Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span> +never get anywhere if I don't make better time +than this. I'll just sprint a few."</p> + +<p>Suiting the action to the word, he started on a +run.</p> + +<p>Almost immediately he was aware of a soft pat-pat +in his rear. He had heard a similar sound in +the wilds of Wyoming and he recognized it at once.</p> + +<p>It was the footfall of a four-legged animal.</p> + +<p>"So!" he ejaculated. "I wonder what it is. If +there were wolves down here I would say it was +a wolf, but I don't believe there are." Then a minute +later, "Well, whatever it is, I'm going to find +out."</p> + +<p>He whipped out his automatic and turned suddenly.</p> + +<p>As before, not a single living thing was in sight, +only in the grass a movement as before.</p> + +<p>Without a moment's aim, he fired a single shot +at the spot. It was an act born of fear and Billie +knew it, but for the life of him he could not have +done otherwise, so nervous had he become.</p> + +<p>The report was followed by a cry of pain and +an instant later there came running directly toward +him out of the tall grass a figure so weird that Billie +stood as one paralysed.</p> + +<p>The figure was that of a man not more than two +feet high, with long arms and a head of diminutive +size. While it stood upright at times, at others it +came forward on all fours. To Billie it seemed a +cross between a man and a monkey.</p> + +<p>Gathering his wits in an instant, Billie would have<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25" href="#Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span> +fired again—in fact, raised his revolver to do so, +when the strange creature fell to its knees and raised +its hands in supplication.</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed the lad as he stood with +lowered weapon. "What kind of a thing is this? +I wonder if it can talk?"</p> + +<p>Then as he took a step toward it: "I'm not going +to hurt you. Come here."</p> + +<p>The creature arose to its feet and came slowly +toward him. As it did so Billie noticed that blood +was running from a wound in its scalp.</p> + +<p>"Poor thing," he said. "That must have been +where the bullet hit him. It was a close shave."</p> + +<p>"Can you talk?" he finally asked.</p> + +<p>The strange creature turned its head to one side +and eyed him closely, but no sound came from its +lips.</p> + +<p>"It must be an ape of some sort," mused the boy; +"but how did it become so tame?"</p> + +<p>He slowly returned his automatic to its holster, +thinking in the meantime how he could dress the +creature's wound; but no sooner had his hand left +his weapon than the ape sprang at him with the +utmost fury. It landed on his shoulder, wound its +legs about his neck, and with its long arms made +a wild grab for the revolver.</p> + +<p>Then began a strange and terrible struggle for +the possession of the weapon. Even as he fought +the beast, Billie realized that in some manner the +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26" href="#Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span> +ape had learned to fear firearms, but whether it +had ever learned to use them he could not venture +a guess. He felt certain if he could draw the weapon +and point it at the ape, it would at once cringe +in fear. What might happen if the ape should get +possession of it, he could only imagine.</p> + +<p>For a youth of eighteen, there were few whom +Billie met that were his match physically, but this +diminutive man-animal held him as in a vise. Billie +exerted every ounce of his strength to free himself +from the terrible hold, while the ape fought +even more fiercely to retain its grip and to gain +possession of the weapon.</p> + +<p>It was a weird and fearful struggle waged there +in the stillness of the tropical woodland—a stillness +broken only by the occasional wild scream of the +ape, or the hoarse breathing of the boy as he fought +to free himself from that horrible grasp.</p> + +<p>The struggle must have lasted for two or three +minutes—to Billie it seemed hours—when by a +sudden wrench the lad managed to free his left +arm sufficiently to get the beast by the throat. For +an instant it loosed its hold on his right arm and +that act decided the battle.</p> + +<p>Finding his right arm free, Billie seized his revolver +and without drawing it from the holster +pulled the trigger.</p> + +<p>At the sound of the shot, the ape uttered a plaintive +cry, relaxed its hold upon the lad and fell upon +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27" href="#Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span> +its knees on the ground with its hands raised in +supplication as previously.</p> + +<p>"I ought to shoot you," declared the lad between +his gasps for breath as he drew the weapon from its +holster and pointed it at the animal, "but I won't. +I'll take you with me and maybe I can sell you for +enough to pay me for the scare you've given me. +Now, march!"</p> + +<p>He pointed with his finger down the track, but +the beast would not stir.</p> + +<p>"Don't you intend to do what I tell you?"</p> + +<p>The animal perked up his head and kept his eye +upon the revolver.</p> + +<p>"Well," exclaimed Billie as he drew a long +breath, "this is the limit. I can't make you mind +and I won't hurt you. I guess the only thing I can +do is to go and leave you."</p> + +<p>Suiting the action to the word, Billie turned and +started down the track, his revolver still in his hand.</p> + +<p>He had not gone more than a dozen steps, before +he heard the soft pat-pat behind him, and on looking +back could see nothing but the waving grass to +indicate the whereabouts of his erstwhile assailant.</p> + +<p>"So I am to be followed, am I? Well, all right." +Then, as an afterthought: "I wonder how I can +catch him when I want him. I wonder if this will +do," and he raised his weapon and pointed it toward +the moving grass.</p> + +<p>With the same plaintive cry which Billie had come +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28" href="#Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span> +to recognize as one of fear, the animal ran toward +him and sank to his knees.</p> + +<p>Billie smiled.</p> + +<p>"It's all right, old chap. As long as I know how +to handle you, why you can follow me right back +to the train."</p> + +<p>Again he started down the track at a brisk walk, +it having just occurred to him that there might be +something doing at the other end of his journey.</p> + +<p>Twenty minutes later he reached the station at +Pitahaya where he had expected to find Adrian and +the three Mexicans awaiting him, but, as we know, +they had gone on to the scene of the wreck. Not +realizing just what had happened, but always on +the alert for the unexpected, Billie, therefore, began +an inspection of the station.</p> + +<p>It did not take him long to discover that Pitahaya +was little more than a siding with a one-room building, +which was used as a freight house and a waiting +room. It did not even boast of a station master.</p> + +<p>"There must be some reason for having a building +here," he mused. "There must be some sort +of a settlement around somewhere. But what's that +to me? I might as well be jogging along towards +Pachuca."</p> + +<p>Then he bethought him of the ape, which he had +no mind to lose after his exciting experience. But +the animal was nowhere to be seen.</p> + +<p>"I wonder if I could raise him with a shot," soliloquized +Billie.</p> + +<p>He raised his weapon, which he still carried in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29" href="#Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span> +his hand, and fired aimlessly, while he turned his +eyes in various directions, but there was nothing +to be seen.</p> + +<p>"Oh, well," he thought, "what's the difference? +He'd just be a nuisance anyway. I might as well +be trudging along."</p> + +<p>He jumped off the station platform and proceeded +down the track, filling the magazine to his automatic +as he went. Then having finished the task, +he returned it to his holster and once more began +counting the ties.</p> + +<p>"One, two, three, four, five, six——"</p> + +<p>Bing! And a stone whistled by his head.</p> + +<p>Billie turned, and as he did so a second stone +from the same source struck him on the temple, +and he fell to the ground.</p> + +<p>A second later the ape sprang from a palm beside +the station and ran toward him, stopping every few +feet to see if the lad would rise.</p> + +<p>When within a few feet of the prostrate lad the +animal made a leap and landed upon his body. In +another instant it had gained possession of Billie's +weapon, which it examined curiously for a moment, +ere it sprang away and stationed itself some two +rods distant, where it sat watching with the weapon +aimed directly at him.</p> + +<p>For perhaps five minutes the two retained their +relative positions and then Billie began to regain +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30" href="#Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span> +consciousness. Several times he moved uneasily and +then he suddenly sat up and looked around.</p> + +<p>"I wonder what happened," he finally thought, +and then he became conscious of a pain in his head.</p> + +<p>He raised his hand to the aching spot and his +fingers encountered a big lump.</p> + +<p>The truth came upon him like a flash. He dropped +his hand to his holster, and sprang to his feet.</p> + +<p>As he did so he caught sight of the ape and +found himself looking into the business end of his +own weapon.</p> + +<p>With a yell he dropped to the ground as though +the expected had happened.</p> + +<p>But when no shot followed, he began to regain +his wits and lay still trying to figure out once more +just how much the ape might know about the use +of the weapon.</p> + +<p>He remembered the old saying that a gun was a +dangerous weapon without lock, stock or barrel, +because a man killed his wife with the ramrod; +and so he figured that an animal which had intelligence +enough to throw a stone and knock him senseless, +might have sense enough to fire a revolver.</p> + +<p>"If I only knew something about his history," soliloquized +Billie, "I might be able to guess how much +he knew. But he is a perfect stranger to me. I +don't even know his name."</p> + +<p>After several minutes and nothing had happened, +Billie decided to make some effort to get away.</p> + +<p>"I might as well be shot as to be prisoner to an +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31" href="#Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span> +ape," he thought, and so he arose to a sitting posture +and surveyed the scene.</p> + +<p>There sat the ape as before, with the automatic +pointed at Billie, but with a puzzled look upon its +face. When the lad finally arose, the ape appeared +still more puzzled and at length, turning the weapon +away from Billie, looked into the muzzle.</p> + +<p>"That settles it," exclaimed Billie. "He doesn't +know how to fire it. I'll go and take it away from +him."</p> + +<p>He started toward the animal, which at once +pointed the revolver in Billie's direction. There +came a sharp report and a bullet whizzed by the +boy's head.</p> + +<p>"Worse and more of it," exclaimed Billie. "He +doesn't know how to use the thing, but he's liable +to shoot me as long as I stay in range. I'll just +make myself scarce."</p> + +<p>Stooping down, he picked up a good-sized stone +and hurled it at the ape and then, without waiting +to see the result of his throw, jumped into the jungle +which lined both sides of the track, determined to +make a detour and if possible lose his unpleasant +companion.</p> + +<p>He had not run far before he realized that the +ape was following, but this he did not mind. There +were plenty of trees between them, and he felt sure +he would soon be able to reach some sort of a habitation, +when he suddenly found himself on the edge +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32" href="#Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span> +of a deep basin into which he plunged before he was +able to gain his equilibrium.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2> + +<h3>THE ROSARIO VIEJO.</h3> + + +<p>To be suddenly pitched head-foremost down a +rocky declivity into a mass of prickly pear bushes +and other tropical brambles is by no means pleasant; +and as a result Billie was not in the best of +humor when he picked himself up and looked to +the top of the 60-foot embankment down which he +had slid.</p> + +<p>"It's a wonder they wouldn't hang out a red +light when they dig a hole like this," he declared +angrily, "and not let a fellow most break his neck, +to say nothing of scratching his eyes out! This is +worse than a subway cave-in."</p> + +<p>He pulled himself together and surveyed his +surroundings.</p> + +<p>The basin looked very much like an old quarry—so +old that the shrubbery on the sides had grown +into good-sized trees, and the whole place was covered +with herbage of one sort or another. In one +corner of the excavation, which must have covered +some two acres, there was the ruin of an adobe +house, while near the center was a stone structure +made of four stone pillars about twenty feet apart +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33" href="#Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span> +and roofed over with two huge stone slabs, set so +as to form a gable roof. Except for its size, it had +the appearance of the old-fashioned well houses, +which were once so common in New England.</p> + +<p>"It's a tough-looking place, whatever it is," was +Billie's comment. "I wish the fellows were here."</p> + +<p>And then for the first time in more than half an +hour Billie bethought him of his companions. His +strange experience with the ape had driven all other +thoughts out of his mind.</p> + +<p>"By George!" he exclaimed aloud, "I wonder how +the fight with the bandits came out?"</p> + +<p>Almost as in answer to his words, there appeared +upon the edge of the excavation into which he had +fallen, but upon the opposite side from that on +which he had taken his slide, ten horsemen, three +of whom carried across the pommel of their saddles +the bodies of three men. They halted and surveyed +the basin critically. Then, single file, they slowly +descended into the quarry.</p> + +<p>Billie recognized them the minute he laid eyes +upon them. They were the remnant of the bandit +band, and the bodies carried across the pommels of +the saddles were three of their wounded companions.</p> + +<p>"This is no place for me," commented Billie as +he kept himself well hidden behind a giant cactus. +"It reminds me of Ali Baba and the forty thieves. +I hope I have better luck than Ali Baba."</p> + +<p>As though to carry out the trend of Billie's +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34" href="#Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span> +thoughts, the horsemen halted near the ruin of +the adobe house before mentioned and two of their +number dismounted and entered. A minute later +the rest of the band rode into the ruins and disappeared, +followed by the riderless horses of the two +dismounted men.</p> + +<p>Billie rubbed his eyes.</p> + +<p>"I wonder if I'm getting dippy," he muttered. +"Maybe that crack on the side of my head has made +me see things."</p> + +<p>He sat down to think.</p> + +<p>"If I only had some kind of a gun," he mused, +"I wouldn't feel so everlasting helpless. Confound +that ape! If I ever see him again I'll break his +neck."</p> + +<p>Then, after a moment's thought: "I don't believe +the beast would give up the chase. He's likely to +show up at any minute. Something has to be done."</p> + +<p>The boy scanned the edge of the embankment, if +perchance he might see anything of his persecutor. +There was nothing in sight and he decided to go +on a tour of inspection. As quietly as possible he +stole along the side of the excavation toward the +spot where the ruin stood, when once more he had +that sense of being watched.</p> + +<p>Turning his head quickly, he saw the ape about +twenty paces to one side aiming the revolver at him.</p> + +<p>Then Billie lost his temper.</p> + +<p>"This thing has got to stop," he exclaimed. "I'll +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35" href="#Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span> +be doggoned if I'm going to stand for it any +longer."</p> + +<p>He ran quickly toward the ape, and fell on his +knees as he had seen the ape do, and raised his +hands in supplication.</p> + +<p>The animal quirked its head and fairly beamed +with pleasure as it slowly advanced and stood beside +him.</p> + +<p>But its simian smile was quickly turned to surprise, +for like a flash Billie snatched the weapon +from its hand and aimed it at the animal's head.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "you come with me."</p> + +<p>The animal made no move.</p> + +<p>"We'll see whether you will come or not," said +Billie, and stooping down he broke off a good-sized +sprout from a live oak. "Now, march!" and he +raised the whip.</p> + +<p>It was the one thing needed. The beast had evidently +felt the touch of a whip before, for it raised +its arm and danced about as though going through +some circus maneuver.</p> + +<p>"The first mystery is solved," laughed Billie. +"Now for the second one. Come on, Ab," unconsciously +naming his companion after the hero +of Stanley Waterloo's famous story.</p> + +<p>The ape seemed to know what was wanted and +the two proceeded slowly and silently toward the +ruin.</p> + +<p>"I've been in a whole lot of queer scrapes," mused +Billie as he crept along, "but this is surely the queerest—tramping +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36" href="#Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span> +around with an ape to solve the disappearance +of ten cutthroats. I hope I wake up +pretty soon."</p> + +<p>But it was no dream, as Billie was soon to discover.</p> + +<p>Arriving at the ruined building, Billie crawled +along by the wall until he came directly under what +had once been a window. Then, after listening a +long time and hearing no sound, he ventured to raise +his head and peep in.</p> + +<p>The old ruin was as empty as though there were +not a living person within fifty miles.</p> + +<p>"Great Scott!" gasped the boy. "What do you +think of that! Now I know I'm dreaming!"</p> + +<p>He turned to the ape, waving his whip.</p> + +<p>"Here you, Ab," he said, "go in there and see +what you can find."</p> + +<p>He pointed to the window and the animal sprang +lightly in and a minute later perched itself on one +of the decaying rafters.</p> + +<p>"If there were any one around, they would certainly +see Ab," reasoned Billie, "and would make +some noise about it. I guess it's safe to go in."</p> + +<p>He crawled around to the door and entered. +There were the tracks of the horses, but the horses +had disappeared as completely as though they had +been swallowed up.</p> + +<p>Billie called softly to Ab, who did not see fit to +obey until he waved his whip. Then the animal +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37" href="#Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span> +sprang lightly to the ground. Billie showed him +the tracks.</p> + +<p>"Where do you suppose they went?" he asked.</p> + +<p>Ab blinked his eyes and, for the first time since +Billie had become acquainted with him, made a noise +in his throat, much like the voice of a child.</p> + +<p>Billie smiled in spite of himself.</p> + +<p>"I'm glad you've decided to become sociable," he +said, "What do you make of this? You look as +though you could think."</p> + +<p>Ab blinked his eyes stupidly and then suddenly +became alert as though listening.</p> + +<p>"What is it?" asked Billie, impressed by the ape's +attitude.</p> + +<p>For a reply Ab sprang through the window and +made straight for the structure in the middle of the +quarry. In another instant he was on the roof.</p> + +<p>Billie followed as fast as he could and as he +stepped beneath the roof started back in the utmost +amazement, for up through what looked like a huge +well there came the distinct sound of human voices.</p> + +<p>For several seconds he stood as one in a spell and +then he started forward to peer into the well, but +on a second thought did not.</p> + +<p>"I couldn't see anything if I did," he thought, +"but any one looking up could see me. I'll do better +by listening."</p> + +<p>The words came to him almost as distinctly as +though he were in the same room with the speakers, +and there was no longer any doubt that the voices +were those of the Zapatistas who had attempted to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38" href="#Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span> +rob the train.</p> + +<p>From their conversation Billie learned the outcome +of the fight, and he was greatly amused at the +attempt of the bandits to figure out who had betrayed +them. Each one had a different theory, but +all agreed that there must have been a traitor in +the band. It was all the lad could do to prevent +himself from calling out to them, just to see what +effect his words would have.</p> + +<p>After discovering from the conversation that the +bandits felt themselves perfectly secure where they +were and that they were likely to stay there for +some time, he finally decided to get back to the railroad +and thence to Pachuca and give the alarm.</p> + +<p>Acting upon the decision, he made his way across +the basin to where he had slid down the embankment +and slowly and laboriously climbed to the top, followed +by Ab.</p> + +<p>Retracing his steps, he soon reached the railroad +and looking down the track toward Pachuca gave +a shout of delight as he saw his three chums approaching, +leading a fourth horse between them.</p> + +<p>"Just in time," he said, as they drew near enough +to exchange greetings.</p> + +<p>"Just in time for what?" queried the others as +one.</p> + +<p>"To capture the bandits that you let escape."</p> + +<p>"How do you know that we let any escape?" +asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I'm a mind reader."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39" href="#Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span></p> + +<p>The other three looked incredulous.</p> + +<p>"Oh, it's a fact," declared Billie. "I can tell you +all about the fight just as well as though I had been +there," and he proceeded to prove his words.</p> + +<p>"Some one told you," said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Sure," laughed Billie, thoroughly enjoying the +perplexity of his companions. "My friend Ab. +Come here, old man, and be introduced," and Billie +waved his whip, which he still carried.</p> + +<p>With a little cry the ape sprang to his side, an act +which only added to the amazement of the others.</p> + +<p>"Allow me," said Billie with mock gravity, "to +introduce my friend Mr. Ab from No-man's-land. +Ab, these are the rest of the Broncho Rider Boys. +How would you like to join the company?"</p> + +<p>Ab scratched his ear and looked wise.</p> + +<p>"Oh, come," interrupted Donald. "Tell us what's +up and what we must do to capture the rest of this +band of cutthroats."</p> + +<p>Thinking that he had carried the joke far enough, +and realizing also that he might be wasting valuable +time, Billie related his adventure, describing the +place he had discovered.</p> + +<p>"It is the Rosario viejo," said Pedro, as soon as +Billie had finished his story.</p> + +<p>"What's that?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"An abandoned mine. It is called the old Rosario +to distinguish it from the new Rosario, which is +now one of the most valuable mines in this region. +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40" href="#Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span> +The station at Pitahaya was built especially to +serve it."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Billie. "Where is the new mine?"</p> + +<p>"Down there," and Pedro pointed to a trail leading +in the opposite direction. "It is just about as +far from the station on that side of the railroad +as the old Rosario is on this."</p> + +<p>"Don't you think we had better summon some assistance +from the mine workers?" asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"They may be in cahoots with the bandits," +laughed Donald. "I have lost my confidence in +about every one in this bandit-ridden land."</p> + +<p>"I don't blame you," said Pedro, "and I hope the +day will soon come when all this trouble will be +over."</p> + +<p>"Then you agree with me that we should tackle +the bandits alone, do you?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"It is the only safe way."</p> + +<p>"All right, then," exclaimed Billie. "Let's be off. +If we use a little strategy, I'm sure we shall succeed."</p> + +<p>He turned to mount the horse, which a minute +before had been standing a few feet away, but it +was gone.</p> + +<p>"Where's my horse?" he cried.</p> + +<p>The others turned in surprise.</p> + +<p>"It certainly was here a minute ago," declared +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Then it can't be very far away," insisted Donald.</p> + +<p>"It's so far I can't see it," replied Billie.</p> + +<p>"There it goes!" shouted Pedro, who had jumped<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41" href="#Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span> +his mount across the track as soon as he heard Billie's +cry.</p> + +<p>The others looked in the direction indicated, and +sure enough, there went the horse about a quarter +of a mile away on a dead run and on its back was +Billie's late acquaintance, Ab.</p> + +<p>"By George," exclaimed Billie angrily as he +snatched a rifle from Donald's holster, "I've had +enough of that ape. I'll put a stop to his foolishness," +and he leveled the rifle.</p> + +<p>But ere he could press the trigger, there was a report +from another quarter and the horse and its +rider hit the dust.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2> + +<h3>WHEN THE OLD WAS NEW.</h3> + + +<p>A cry of astonishment went up from the quartette +and then they stood silent to see what would +be the next move.</p> + +<p>They did not have long to wait, for presently a +tall, gaunt figure strode out of the brambles some +yards from the fallen horse and uttered a hoarse +shout, upon which Ab sprang from the spot where +he had fallen and ran toward the newcomer, giving +vent to shrill cries as he ran.</p> + +<p>"That must be his master," muttered Billie. "I'm<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42" href="#Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span> +glad I didn't shoot the little beggar."</p> + +<p>"I'm more interested in the master than in the +monkey," said Donald. "He is evidently not a +Mexican. Who and what do you suppose he is?"</p> + +<p>"An animal trainer from a circus," replied Adrian.</p> + +<p>"There are no circuses in this part of the world," +commented Billie.</p> + +<p>"If he only had a hand organ instead of a gun, +I could place him," laughed Donald. "What do you +make out of him, Pedro?"</p> + +<p>"It's a <i>saltimbanco</i>."</p> + +<p>"What is that?"</p> + +<p>"A man who goes about making people laugh."</p> + +<p>"Oh!" from Adrian. "You mean a mountebank?"</p> + +<p>"I think so."</p> + +<p>"And this chap," ventured Billie, "isn't satisfied +with making a monkey of himself, but carries a +real one with him."</p> + +<p>Pedro laughed. "That seems to be it."</p> + +<p>"I'm sorry he killed the horse," said Donald. +"We need him."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps he didn't," suggested Adrian. "Suppose +we ride over and see."</p> + +<p>Suiting the action to the word, the boys rode out +into the open, much to the newcomer's surprise and +consternation.</p> + +<p>"Señors," he exclaimed, as he came running +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43" href="#Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span> +toward them, "I am sorry I had to hurt your horse; +but I couldn't lose my brother."</p> + +<p>"Your what?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"My brother. My little brother. Could I, Ambrosio?" +and he patted the ape on the cheek.</p> + +<p>"What do you call him?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"I call him Ambrosio because he is so sweet."</p> + +<p>"Bah!" exclaimed Billie. "I called him Ab, but +he ought to be named Diabolo. But how about the +horse?"</p> + +<p>"I am afraid I have rendered him quite useless +for the present, Señor. I may have broken his leg."</p> + +<p>An examination of the fallen animal revealed the +fact that while the leg was not splintered, it was so +badly injured that the animal was quite useless.</p> + +<p>"Have you far to go, Señors?" queried the mountebank.</p> + +<p>"Only as far as the Rosario viejo for the present," +answered Adrian. "After that——"</p> + +<p>"After that," interrupted Billie, "we may not +want to go anywhere."</p> + +<p>The mountebank looked at Billie questioningly.</p> + +<p>"That's what I mean," reiterated Billie. "We +are going there to capture a band of cutthroats, but +we may have a fight."</p> + +<p>The man made a grimace, which was intended for +a smile.</p> + +<p>"I understand. Can I be of any service?"</p> + +<p>Donald eyed him suspiciously.</p> + +<p>"What do you think?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"You may have noticed how I stopped the runaway,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44" href="#Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span> +he remarked.</p> + +<p>"Very neatly."</p> + +<p>"Sure," from Billie. "It was a short stop."</p> + +<p>"I perceive that you are an American. I am +also a fan."</p> + +<p>"What!" from the three Americans.</p> + +<p>"True. I am even worse. I formerly shot the +pill in one of the bush leagues. I aspired to a place +in the box of one of the major league clubs, but +instead I joined the Madero revolution. I had all +the sport I wanted and finding my brother in this +forsaken land, I joined him as a public entertainer. +Shall we give you a sample of our performance?"</p> + +<p>"Not now," from Donald. "Let's go and round +up this bunch of revolutionists first."</p> + +<p>"But why?" queried the mountebank. "To-morrow +they may be the government."</p> + +<p>The boys looked at each other with an expression +that said as plainly as words: "True! We never +thought of that."</p> + +<p>"Now, I have a better plan," continued the mountebank. +"Let's go and entertain the revolutionists. +Let's be neutral."</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid we are already belligerents," laughed +Adrian. "We have had one brush with them."</p> + +<p>The mountebank heaved a sigh.</p> + +<p>"Of course, if you have declared war, we shall +have to fight to a finish, unless," with a grin, "we +can intrench."</p> + +<p>"It is they who are intrenched," explained Billie.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45" href="#Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span> +"They are at the bottom of the old mine, although +I don't know how they got there."</p> + +<p>"So," laughed the mountebank. "Suppose we go +and find out."</p> + +<p>Arrived at the shaft house, for that is what the +gable-roofed building was, the boys and their new-found +friend approached and listened to the sound +of voices which still arose to the top of the shaft.</p> + +<p>Evidently considering themselves free and safe, +the bandits were preparing their evening meal, for +it was now well on toward sunset. They were singing +and joking as though they had not just lost +half or two-thirds their number.</p> + +<p>From a few remarks made now and then, it appeared +that they proposed on the following day to +recruit the band up to its former strength.</p> + +<p>"That is the thing we must prevent," declared +Donald.</p> + +<p>"A very easy thing," said the mountebank, "if we +had enough provisions to remain here for twenty-four +hours, or more."</p> + +<p>"How so?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"Why, they will doubtless send out two or three +to do the recruiting. We can capture them as they +leave the ruins."</p> + +<p>Billie glanced at the man from under his broad-rimmed +sombrero as he asked: "How did you know +they came out through the ruins?"</p> + +<p>The mountebank smiled.</p> + +<p>"Now, don't go to mistrusting me, young fellow,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46" href="#Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span> +for I'm on the level. But I've been in this place +before, and I know that the only way to where your +friends down there are camping is through the +ruins."</p> + +<p>"Have you ever been down there?"</p> + +<p>"Yes. They are only about sixty feet below the +ground, in a chamber which was originally a gallery +in the mine. The shaft over which this house +is built is over two hundred feet deep."</p> + +<p>"I'd like to explore it," remarked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Do you think you have the nerve?" and the +stranger bent upon him a penetrating gaze.</p> + +<p>Billie laughed softly.</p> + +<p>"Say, stranger," he finally said. "I guess you +never heard of the Broncho Rider Boys. We've +got the nerve to do anything that any other human +being dare do."</p> + +<p>"Then we'll get rid of these bandits in short notice," +declared the mountebank emphatically. "You +are just the chaps I have been looking for."</p> + +<p>He leaned over the mouth of the shaft and gave +a shrill whistle.</p> + +<p>In an instant all was silent below.</p> + +<p>Half a minute later he repeated the whistle thrice.</p> + +<p>There was a clatter below of arms and accoutrements.</p> + +<p>"Over behind those big cactus with you, quick," +was the next command. "If you insist on fighting +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47" href="#Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span> +these men later, you can. Now let's get rid of +them."</p> + +<p>For just a moment the boys hesitated, but there +was something in the man's manner that seemed to +force obedience and they obeyed.</p> + +<p>They were not a moment too soon, for they had +no more than secreted themselves than the back wall +of the ruin flew open and the men rode out. Of +those who had been at the mouth of the shaft only +a few moments before, only the mountebank with +his ape was in sight.</p> + +<p>"What is it?" asked one of the band, riding up +to him.</p> + +<p>"Guard the track at the summit. Let no train +pass, even if you have to tear up the track."</p> + +<p>"By whose order?"</p> + +<p>The mountebank made a mysterious sign with +his left hand.</p> + +<p>"<i>Bueno!</i>" from the horseman. "Close up the +doors and care for the wounded," and putting spurs +to his horse, he led the bandits from the basin.</p> + +<p>As soon as they were out of sight, the mountebank +summoned the boys to the shaft house by a +wave of his hand.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "you'll have a chance to test +your nerve, and we must work rapidly to get where +we wish to go before dark."</p> + +<p>He took from a crude knapsack which he wore +upon his shoulders a coil of cord about half the size +of a lead pencil, but evidently of much strength. +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48" href="#Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span> +Then seizing the ape, he fastened one end of the +cord to the belt about the animal's body, and despite +its unwillingness to be thus treated began to lower it +into the shaft.</p> + +<p>Totally unable to account for his actions, the boys +stood speechless, watching the operations.</p> + +<p>After some minutes, the cord slackened.</p> + +<p>"He's reached the bottom," was the information +vouchsafed. Then a moment later: "Help me to +pull him up, one of you."</p> + +<p>Billie hastened to lend a hand and in a short time +the head of the ape appeared above the edge of the +shaft. In his hand he held one end of a good-sized +rope, which the mountebank took and tied around +one of the stone pillars which supported the roof.</p> + +<p>"Now, then," he said, "we are ready to descend +into the old mine. Which one of you will go first?"</p> + +<p>The boys looked at each other, but there was no +reply until Donald asked:</p> + +<p>"Why should we go down at all?"</p> + +<p>"Why," was the somewhat quizzical reply, "to +show your nerve."</p> + +<p>"Unless there is some good reason other than +that, there are plenty of ways to show our nerve +without lowering ourselves to the bottom of an +old mine."</p> + +<p>"There is a good reason," was the reply.</p> + +<p>"Then tell us. If it is good, there can be no objection."</p> + +<p>"The object of this descent," said the stranger +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49" href="#Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span> +calmly, "is to see if we cannot solve the mystery of +the abandonment of the mine."</p> + +<p>"Have you ever been down?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"Often."</p> + +<p>"There is no foul gas at the bottom?"</p> + +<p>"Not now, as you may see by the condition of +Ambrosio, who has been clear to the bottom."</p> + +<p>"Then I am willing to be the first to descend; +but first I must know more about you than I do."</p> + +<p>"What difference does that make? You will have +three friends here with me. They are all armed and +I can see they know how to use their weapons. I +cannot possibly harm you. I will be the third to +descend. I assure you that the descent and the ascent +are comparatively easy for athletic young chaps, +as the sides of the shaft are very uneven. By the +aid of this rope you can come up almost as easily +as you would climb a ladder. The adventure is well +worth your while."</p> + +<p>"And you won't tell us who you are?"</p> + +<p>"I have already told you. I am an American soldier +of fortune. My name, if that means anything +to you, is Francis Strong, and I have assumed this +character of a mountebank solely for the purpose +of going about the country without being molested. +What I hope to do, is of no interest to any one but +myself."</p> + +<p>It was a straightforward statement and the boys +saw no reason to doubt its truthfulness.</p> + +<p>"All right, then," exclaimed Billie. "Here goes!"</p> + +<p>He grasped the rope and lowered himself over<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50" href="#Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span> +the side. It was as Strong had said and in a very +few minutes he found himself at the bottom. He +could see nothing except the dim light at the mouth +of the shaft.</p> + +<p>Giving the rope a vigorous shake, as had been +agreed upon, he saw another figure begin to descend, +and in a short time Pedro stood beside him. Strong +was next to descend, then came Ambrosio, and after +him Adrian and Donald in the order named—Donald +having determined to be the last, that he might +be sure that everything was safe above ground.</p> + +<p>"I should have given you this," was Strong's +first remark upon alighting at Billie's side, and he +drew from his pocket an electric torch. "But it +slipped my mind."</p> + +<p>"We all have them in our trunk in the City of +Mexico," replied Billie, "but I doubt if either of us +has one with him."</p> + +<p>"This is sufficient, for I shall light some torches +I have prepared as soon as we are ready for our +work."</p> + +<p>When Donald had descended, Strong led the way +through a lateral about thirty or forty feet, at the +end of which another vertical shaft had been sunk. +Around the mouth of this Strong had set a number +of torches, which he now proceeded to light. By +their glare it was possible to see part way down the +hole.</p> + +<p>"The thing I hope to find," explained Strong, "is<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51" href="#Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> +at the bottom of that hole, if it exists at all."</p> + +<p>"What is that?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"I think I can best answer your question," was +the reply, "by reading you a translation of a paper +which is said to have been found in the shaft above, +where the bandits have made their rendezvous. How +it came into my possession, matters not. I believe +there are now enough of us here to prove or disprove +its truthfulness, unless some one has been +here before us."</p> + +<p>Seating himself on a jutting boulder, Strong took +from his pocket a paper, which he read as follows +under the flickering torchlight:</p> + +<div class='blockquot'> + +<p>"Being about to leave this world, I desire to obtain +forgiveness for the great and only crime of my +life, hence this confession.</p> + +<p>"There were five of us. Names do not matter. +They were my fellow workmen. We had been entrusted +with the output of the Rosario for the year +and had promised to guard it with our lives. We +heard the soldiers of Maximilian coming. We were +not enough to withstand them. We determined to +hide the treasure in the western shaft. We carried +it to the edge and threw it in. My four companions +went down to cover it over with dirt, which I +brought from the other shaft and gave them, shovel +by shovel. A mad idea seized me. If they were +dead, no one but I would know the hiding place of +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52" href="#Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span> +the treasure. I would kill them; but how? I +glanced about. Great pieces of rock were on every +hand. Without stopping to consider the foulness +of the deed I rolled a huge piece to the mouth of +the shaft and pushed it in. There was a cry of +terror and I heard a voice call out to know what had +happened. I said a piece of rock had broken loose +and asked what damage it had done. Only one replied. +The others had been stricken down. Madly +I pushed over another rock and then another and +still another. Then there was silence and I fled. +The soldiers found me unconscious at the bottom of +the shaft. Ere I became conscious, Maximilian was +no more. When I returned hither, the mine had +been abandoned. Here I have lived for years alone +with my misery. Now I die. May God forgive me.</p> + +<p class="letter"><span class="smcap">José Rodriguez.</span></p></div> + +<p><br /></p> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2> + +<h3>A FEARFUL EXPERIENCE.</h3> + + +<p>"Well?" queried Donald when Strong had finished +reading the paper, "what are we going to do +about it?"</p> + +<p>"We are going to find out, if we can, whether +José Rodriguez told the truth, and if he did, whether +any one else has tried to prove it."</p> + +<p>"What do you think of it, Pedro?" asked Billie, +indicating the opening at their feet.</p> + +<p>"Exactly."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53" href="#Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span></p> + +<p>"Have you ever been down in it?" asked Adrian +of Strong.</p> + +<p>"No! I did not feel equal to the task and I was +afraid to ask help of any of these cutthroats."</p> + +<p>"What do you think of it, Pedro?" asked Billie, +turning to the Mexican lad, who had made no comment +whatever.</p> + +<p>"It's an old tale," was the reply, "this story of +the Rosario viejo. I have heard it many times and +I presume this shaft has been explored by every +prospector in this section. In my opinion it is a +huge hoax."</p> + +<p>At Pedro's words, Strong's face became ashen.</p> + +<p>"Are you telling the truth?" he asked hoarsely.</p> + +<p>"Indeed I am. My father knows of several who +have searched the place and nothing has ever been +found."</p> + +<p>Strong drew a long breath and passed his hand +over his face.</p> + +<p>"I have believed it true," he finally said, "ever +since I first came into possession of this paper. +There is something about it that rings true and I +have counted upon finding sufficient wealth to enable +me to achieve a long cherished plan. If what +you say," turning to Pedro, "is true, my chance of +attaining my ambition is very slim."</p> + +<p>"I'm sorry, sir, but if I had known for certain +what your object was in coming down here I might +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54" href="#Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> +have saved you the trouble. Isn't there any other +way you might obtain the money you wish?"</p> + +<p>"If there is, I don't know it."</p> + +<p>"Pedro may be right," spoke up Billie suddenly, +"but I am in favor of making an inspection of our +own, now that we are here. What do you say, +Don?"</p> + +<p>"I'm with you." Then to Strong: "How are we +to get to the bottom?"</p> + +<p>Strong reached over and from behind a nearby +boulder produced another bundle of rope.</p> + +<p>"I had intended making a rope ladder," he said.</p> + +<p>"All right, then," from Donald, "a rope ladder it +shall be."</p> + +<p>The boys set to work and in the course of an +hour had made a rope ladder more than fifty feet +in length. Lowering it into the shaft, it seemed to +reach to the bottom and Billie started to go down, +but Strong prevented him.</p> + +<p>"I shall go first," he said. "If there is any danger +from poisonous gas, or from reptiles, I shall take +the risk. You boys have parents and homes. I +have no one. If I should suffer any mishap, do not +attempt to rescue me. It would not be worth while."</p> + +<p>"Nothing will happen," declared Adrian. "I have +a hunch and my hunches are usually right."</p> + +<p>The rope having been properly fastened and +warded off the side by an ingenious arrangement of +several large rocks, Strong began his descent. In +his left hand he carried a flaming torch and Donald +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55" href="#Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span> +leaned over the edge, looking down, with rifle +sighted, to fire upon any reptile which might be +brought to light by the torch's ruddy glare.</p> + +<p>Step by step Strong went down, stopping every +now and then to hold his torch below him, if perchance +it might come into contact with fire damp or +any other noxious gas.</p> + +<p>He had descended at least three-fourths of the +way, when, as he swung his torch below, he uttered +a cry that was almost a shriek and the torch fell +from his hand.</p> + +<p>At the same instant Donald gave vent to a loud +exclamation and his rifle cracked.</p> + +<p>"Hold on," he cried as he arose from the ground, +"as you value your life, don't lose your hold."</p> + +<p>"What is it?" asked the others in one voice.</p> + +<p>"Snakes! Dozens of them," replied Donald. +"Climb up, Strong, as fast as you can."</p> + +<p>"All right," came a feeble reply, followed almost +immediately by a louder call of "Help!"</p> + +<p>"Hold fast," called Donald. "I'm coming."</p> + +<p>But before he could turn to step down the ladder, +a chattering figure sprang past him and shot down +the rope.</p> + +<p>It was the ape. He had heard his master's call +and had gone to his assistance.</p> + +<p>A moment later came a joyful cry that told as +plainly as words that Ambrosio had reached his master +in time.</p> + +<p>"Are you all right now?" called Donald.</p> + +<p>"Yes. I'll be up in a minute. Good old boy,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56" href="#Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span> +the last remark evidently addressed to the ape.</p> + +<p>When Strong's head appeared above the edge of +the shaft a couple of minutes later he was as pale as +a ghost and when he at length came into the full +light of the torches, it was seen that his hair was as +white as snow. The fright had completely changed +its color.</p> + +<p>"Let's get out of here," he gasped as soon as he +was helped to his feet. "I wouldn't go down into +that place again for all the gold and silver in the +world."</p> + +<p>"It was pretty rough for sure," admitted Donald. +"I just caught a glimpse as the torch fell among +them, but it was so quickly extinguished by the +wriggling mass I only shot once for fear of hitting +you."</p> + +<p>"It was the darkness that frightened me," Strong +explained feebly. "If I hadn't let go my torch to +hold on with both hands, I don't think I would have +minded so much. But the darkness hid what was +below and it just seemed as though they were right +after me. I'd have been a goner sure if it hadn't +been for good old Ambrosio," and he laid his hand +affectionately on the ape's head.</p> + +<p>"Do you think you'll be able to climb out of the +mine?" asked Billie as they reached the main shaft.</p> + +<p>"Yes, with Ambrosio's aid; but I'm going out +first. I don't think I have nerve enough left right +now to be the last out."</p> + +<p>The exit from the mine was much slower than the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57" href="#Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span> +descent had been, but in the course of an hour they +were all once more out under the stars.</p> + +<p>"What about the bandits?" queried Billie.</p> + +<p>"Take my advice," said Strong, "and let them +alone. This is none of your quarrel. If the Mexicans +want to fight among themselves, let them. It's +a family quarrel and you will only make matters +worse by interfering. The time may come when +these very men may prove your best friends."</p> + +<p>"That's the advice I gave when we first discovered +them to-day. I wish now we had all followed +it."</p> + +<p>"If we are not going to do anything," declared +Adrian, "the quicker we get out of here the better."</p> + +<p>"I consider that more good advice," laughed Billie, +"especially as I am just reminded that I haven't +had a bite to eat since noon. But I have no horse."</p> + +<p>"That's easily remedied," replied Strong.</p> + +<p>He went into the old ruin and in a few minutes +returned with a very good animal, all saddled and +bridled.</p> + +<p>"It will not be missed," he said. "Now ride for +your lives. Take the trail to the left and don't let +moonlight catch you within five miles of here."</p> + +<p>"Aren't you coming with us?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"No! I am better off here."</p> + +<p>"How will you account for your white hair?"</p> + +<p>"I'll tell them it is a charm. They'll believe it +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58" href="#Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span> +and it will make me that much more valuable. Now +go!"</p> + +<p>Without wasting more words the boys put spurs +to their horses and were soon out of the basin and +on their way to Pachuca.</p> + +<p>"It seems like a year since we came down here," +remarked Adrian to Billie as they galloped along.</p> + +<p>"It sure does," was the reply as Billie rubbed his +stomach suggestively. "I'll never go out again as +long as I'm in this revolutionary republic without a +haversack full of grub."</p> + +<p>"Who said grub?" called back Donald.</p> + +<p>"What a question," laughed Adrian. "Who is it +that's always hungry? It's all he thinks about."</p> + +<p>"Oh, it is, eh?" from Billie. "Well, I'm thinking +about something else now. There's the moon coming +up over the valley and we're not three miles from +the old Rosario. We'd better keep our eyes peeled +and see that our shooting irons are in shape. We +may have to fight our way home even yet."</p> + +<p>As though to verify the prediction there appeared +at the moment the figure of a solitary horseman silhouetted +against the rising moon.</p> + +<p>"You're a prophet of evil all right," said Adrian. +"Now what?"</p> + +<p>"Just keep on riding."</p> + +<p>"But that chap is right in our way."</p> + +<p>"Then ride him down. He'll be worse scared than +we are."</p> + +<p>The advice seemed good and the boys spurred<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59" href="#Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span> +forward.</p> + +<p>"If you think he means us any harm," Donald +remarked, "I might take a shot at him."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe he does."</p> + +<p>Again Billie proved a good prophet as the rider +rode directly toward them, waving his hat in his +hand.</p> + +<p>"It's Tony," exclaimed Pedro as the rider approached +a little nearer.</p> + +<p>Tony was one of Gen. Sanchez' servants.</p> + +<p>"Why, so it is," laughed Donald. "I suppose he +is out looking for us."</p> + +<p>Which was exactly the case. The news of the +fight had reached Pachuca along with the part the +boys had played in saving the bullion, and Pedro's +father had heard it along with the others.</p> + +<p>Later, word had been brought that one of the boys +was missing and the others had gone to look for +him. When none of them returned after all these +hours, Gen. Sanchez had organized a searching +party, of which Tony proved to be the advance +guard.</p> + +<p>A few minutes later, several horsemen dashed up +and the boys were given a rousing reception.</p> + +<p>"The <i>Jefe politico</i> is waiting to greet you," Tony +told the boys.</p> + +<p>The jefe politico is the mayor.</p> + +<p>Billie smiled broadly and once more rubbed his +stomach.</p> + +<p>"This begins to look encouraging," he remarked<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60" href="#Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span> +to Pedro. "I think I can taste the good things +already."</p> + +<p>Half an hour later the boys reached the city and +were given a cheer as they passed through the main +street and up to Gen. Sanchez' home, which was +located half a block from the plaza. And in another +ten minutes Billie was facing the mayor over a plate +of steaming soup, while a mozo stood at his back +waiting to serve the leg of a twenty-five pound turkey. +Raising his eyes from the table, he caught +sight of what was coming and gave Donald, who +sat next to him, a dig in the ribs with his elbow.</p> + +<p>"How's this for a prophet of evil?" he asked.</p> + +<p>Donald took a look at the great bird which was +rapidly falling into pieces under Gen. Sanchez' skillful +hand, and remarked with a wink:</p> + +<p>"Great!"</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2> + +<h3>THE INSULT TO THE FLAG.</h3> + + +<p>A week later, or, to be more exact, on April 10, +1914, the Broncho Rider Boys and their friend +Pedro were back in the City of Mexico. During the +two weeks they had been at Pachuca, many changes +had taken place and on the morning in question +they had just finished their coffee in the breakfast +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61" href="#Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span> +room when Guadalupe, Pedro's sister, brought in +the morning paper.</p> + +<p>"What's the news?" asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>Guadalupe glanced at the paper and hid it behind +her back without making any reply.</p> + +<p>"Why, Sister!" exclaimed Pedro with all the dignity +of his sixteen years. "How can you be so +rude?"</p> + +<p>"She's only joking," laughed Billie, who was always +found on Guadalupe's side when any argument +took place. "Come, tell us! What is it?"</p> + +<p>Guadalupe shook her head.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I can't," she replied in a pained voice.</p> + +<p>"Why not?" from Billie.</p> + +<p>"It says we are going to have war with the United +States and I don't believe it."</p> + +<p>"Of course you don't," replied Billie. "Neither +does any one else."</p> + +<p>"Let me see," said Pedro sternly.</p> + +<p>Slowly the girl handed her brother the paper.</p> + +<p>He opened it and read.</p> + +<p>"A party of American marines was arrested in +Tampico yesterday for landing on Mexican soil with +arms in their hands. They were marched through +the streets under a heavy guard and lodged in jail. +After a parley with the American Admiral, Mayo, +the commandant of the city finally released them +upon the assurance of the Admiral that it should not +occur again."</p> + +<p>"Well, if it was only a mistake, that doesn't mean +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62" href="#Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span> +war," laughed Billie, but Donald's face took on a +more serious look.</p> + +<p>"That isn't all," said Pedro.</p> + +<p>"Well," from Billie, "let's have the rest of it."</p> + +<p>"The American Admiral has now declared that +the men did not land on Mexican soil with arms in +their hands, but that they were in their boat at the +pier when arrested. He claims that they were taken +from under the American flag——"</p> + +<p>"What?" almost shouted Billie, springing to his +feet. "Taken from under the American flag? +Well, I'll bet that will mean war—unless," he added +after a brief pause, "Gen. Huerta apologizes."</p> + +<p>"Why should he apologize?" asked Pedro.</p> + +<p>"For insulting the American flag."</p> + +<p>"That's what the American Admiral says," interrupted +Guadalupe, "and he threatens to fire on the +city."</p> + +<p>"And I'll bet he'll do it," said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"If he does we'll sink his ships," said Pedro.</p> + +<p>"What with?" asked Billie sarcastically. "Why, +Admiral Mayo could blow Tampico out of the +water."</p> + +<p>"If he does, the Mexicans will march on Washington," +from Pedro.</p> + +<p>"What?" from Donald. "March on Washington? +Why, Huerta can't hardly keep Carranza out of the +City of Mexico."</p> + +<p>"But if your admiral fires on Tampico, Carranza +will help Gen. Huerta," declared Pedro.</p> + +<p>"Do you really think so?" asked Adrian.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63" href="#Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p> + +<p>"I know it. We may have our little family troubles +down here in Mexico, but if the United States +should interfere, we'd all turn in and fight her."</p> + +<p>Billie was about to reply when Gen. Sanchez entered +the room.</p> + +<p>"I see you have been reading the news," he said +calmly.</p> + +<p>"And discussing it too," said Donald.</p> + +<p>"Which we had better not at present," replied +the General. "You boys are our guests and as long +as you are, you are our friends; but I am afraid +there is serious trouble coming and I think it will +be much better if you make arrangements at once to +return to the United States. As you know, I am not +a favorite with the present administration and I +might not be able to protect you."</p> + +<p>"We can ask the protection of the American Ambassador," +said Donald.</p> + +<p>Gen. Sanchez smiled kindly.</p> + +<p>"The American Ambassador may be asked to +leave."</p> + +<p>The boys looked serious.</p> + +<p>"Do you really think it is as bad as that?" asked +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I fear so. Later dispatches from Tampico state +that the American Admiral has demanded a salute +of twenty-one guns to the American flag. I know +Gen. Huerta well enough to know that he will never +order the salute."</p> + +<p>"Then what will happen?" asked Donald.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64" href="#Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span></p> + +<p>"No one can say. I understand that the American +government has placed the matter in the hands of +Admiral Fletcher, the ranking officer, who is in +charge of the Atlantic fleet off Vera Cruz."</p> + +<p>"Do you think we should go at once?" queried +Billie.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I think it would be better. I will make +such arrangements as I can for your transportation +to Vera Cruz. In the meantime you had better go +and register yourselves at the United States Embassy. +I am never sure of Gen. Huerta."</p> + +<p>Without further discussion the boys prepared to +take Gen. Sanchez' advice, and, donning their hats, +started for the embassy, leaving Pedro much chagrined +and Guadalupe in tears.</p> + +<p>"I can't see why there has to be war!" she declared. +"Why can't men behave themselves?"</p> + +<p>"What do girls know about war?" asked Pedro.</p> + +<p>"They know it's terrible and takes their fathers +and brothers, that's what they know, and they wish +they didn't have to know that."</p> + +<p>Pedro made no reply, but went to his room, where +he selected from among his most cherished belongings +a gift for each of his guests—three beautiful +opals—and laid them upon their respective suit +cases.</p> + +<p>When the Broncho Rider Boys arrived at the embassy +they found a large crowd of Americans already +assembled. Word had been circulated that it +would be wise for all of them to leave Mexico and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65" href="#Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span> +those who could were going, while many men whose +business detained them in Mexico were sending their +families. All had come to the embassy for information +and to register.</p> + +<p>As a result it was late in the afternoon before +the boys returned to Gen. Sanchez' residence. But +late as they were, the general had not yet come in. +They went to their room and when they saw the +gifts which Pedro had laid on each valise, they could +not keep back the tears.</p> + +<p>"Well, there's one thing," declared Billie as he +drew the back of his hand across his eyes, "we don't +have to fight Pedro, no matter what comes. I'm +going to hunt him up and tell him so."</p> + +<p>And he did.</p> + +<p>It was some hours later when Gen. Sanchez returned +and announced that it would be impossible +for the boys to get transportation to Vera Cruz for +two or three days, as the track had been torn up in +the neighborhood of Cordoba, but that he had been +promised that they would be given safe conduct as +soon as the track was repaired.</p> + +<p>It was three days later, therefore, before the boys +were able to leave, during which time they remained +in the house at Gen. Sanchez' request to avoid any +unpleasantness, which might make trouble for him.</p> + +<p>On the morning of the 13th the boys bade good-bye +to their host and his family and were driven in +an automobile to the station. Already there were +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66" href="#Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span> +more than enough persons to fill four trains, and +the guards were permitting only those to board the +cars who had passes signed by the Mexican provost +marshal.</p> + +<p>Thanks to Gen. Sanchez, our boys had been provided +with such passes, but they were not allowed to +take their rifles or revolvers aboard the train. They +had no more than found seats and made themselves +comfortable than the conductor shouted "Vamanos," +and the train pulled slowly out of the shed.</p> + +<p>"Well," remarked Donald as they rolled slowly +along, "this is a pretty tough ending to a friendly +visit. I think I've seen about all I want of Mexico +for some time to come."</p> + +<p>"What do you suppose will happen?" asked Billie. +"Do you think we'll really go to war with +Mexico unless Gen. Huerta orders the salute?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know," was Donald's cautious reply. "I +hope not."</p> + +<p>"And I hope we do!" exclaimed a somewhat +florid gentleman who sat in the seat ahead and who +had overheard the conversation. "I'd just like an +opportunity to come down here with an army and +wipe the whole nation off the earth."</p> + +<p>Donald made no reply, but Adrian asked sympathetically: +"Have they treated you badly, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Have they treated me badly? Well, I should +say so. They wouldn't let me out of my hotel for +two days and now they have refused to carry my +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67" href="#Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span> +trunk and made me leave it with the express company. +I guess they don't know who I am."</p> + +<p>"I'm sure they do not, sir."</p> + +<p>"Well, I'll show them who I am as soon as I get +to Vera Cruz and can see Admiral Fletcher. He'll +know how to protect Americans!"</p> + +<p>"I'm sure he will, sir."</p> + +<p>"And when the first marine lands, I want to be +right there with a rifle to help drive the Mexicans off +the earth."</p> + +<p>"It would be wise not to say too much," whispered +Adrian. "I see that officer in the end of the +car has his eye on you. He may speak English."</p> + +<p>"I don't care who hears me," said the florid man +angrily. "I mean it."</p> + +<p>At the same moment a guard who had approached +from the other end of the car laid his hand upon the +angry man's shoulder.</p> + +<p>"If the Señor is not satisfied," he said, "we shall +be pleased to send him back to the City of Mexico."</p> + +<p>"Oh, no-no-no," was the stammering reply. "I +am very well satisfied. All I want is to get out of +the country."</p> + +<p>"Let us hope there will be no trouble about that," +was the polite response, and the florid man lapsed +into silence.</p> + +<p>Ordinarily it is a pleasant day's journey from the +City of Mexico to the seaport city of Vera Cruz; or +if one prefers he may make a night ride of it in +times of peace. The train which left the City of +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68" href="#Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span> +Mexico that April morning made no such time. +After a tiresome all-day ride with numerous aggravating +stops, when darkness fell they were still +on the plateau of Mexico, some miles west of Orizaba, +running slowly for fear some stray bunch of +Carranzistas or Zapatistas might have torn up a +length or two of track.</p> + +<p>It was possibly an hour later that the engine gave +a furious jerk, followed by a bump and another jerk, +and then the train came to a dead stop.</p> + +<p>In a minute everybody was on his feet asking +everybody else what had happened. As no one +knew, there was a general movement for the doors, +as it was too dark to see much from the windows.</p> + +<p>"Sit down, everybody," ordered the guard. +"There is no danger, but we have stopped on a high +trestle."</p> + +<p>The passengers obeyed, realizing the danger of +leaving the coaches. There was a general round of +conversation, and then as the train did not start, +people settled back in their seats and tried to sleep.</p> + +<p>Some minutes later Billie gave Adrian a nudge +with his elbow.</p> + +<p>"Are you asleep?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"No. Why?"</p> + +<p>"I've just been looking out of the window. We're +not on a trestle."</p> + +<p>"No? Well, what of it?"</p> + +<p>"Only that the guard was lying. What did he do +it for?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know. Because he was a Mexican, I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69" href="#Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span> +guess. Go on to sleep."</p> + +<p>"That isn't the answer, although it's pretty good. +They have some scheme. I wouldn't be surprised if +they were going to keep us prisoners somewhere +around here."</p> + +<p>"Nonsense. Go on to sleep."</p> + +<p>But Billie was not satisfied. He leaned over and +tried to talk to Donald, but he was fast asleep.</p> + +<p>"I think I'll go on a little scouting expedition," +he muttered. "I need some exercise."</p> + +<p>He arose, stretched himself and walked slowly +toward the door, which stood wide open.</p> + +<p>"I wonder where the guard is?" he thought. "It's +mighty funny he'd go and leave the coach like this."</p> + +<p>He stepped on to the coach ahead. The same condition +existed.</p> + +<p>Billie's curiosity got the best of him and he +jumped out onto the ground. It was pitch dark, but +he had not advanced more than twenty steps before +he discovered groups of men seated upon the grass. +A second glance convinced him they were armed.</p> + +<p>He drew back and stood beside the coach, where +he thought fast.</p> + +<p>"There's one of two things," he soliloquized. "We +are either prisoners or else we are being guarded +against an expected attack. Whichever it is, this +is no time for the Broncho Rider Boys to be asleep. +I'll go and tell the others."</p> + +<p>He started to climb onto the car, but a guard +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70" href="#Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span> +appeared on the platform and ordered him away at +the point of his bayonet.</p> + +<p>"I'm a passenger," explained Billie.</p> + +<p>"Go away!" was the reply, emphasized by a quick +advance of the bayonet.</p> + +<p>Seeing that it was no time to argue, Billie slid +back into the darkness.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2> + +<h3>TREACHERY FOILED.</h3> + + +<p>Broncho Billie had been in too many unpleasant +places to be at all worried over his predicament, but +he was much concerned about the condition of the +train and its passengers, practically all of whom were +Americans and a large majority of whom were +women and children.</p> + +<p>"It would be fierce," he mused, "to have them +held here, or in a detention camp as prisoners; and +it would be worse if we should be attacked by an +overwhelming force of revolutionists. I've just got +to know the truth."</p> + +<p>He glanced up at the coach with its dimly lighted +windows.</p> + +<p>"I wish I could talk to old Don. He most always +knows what to do. But how can I get at him?"</p> + +<p>He sneaked out to where he could see the coach +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71" href="#Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span> +platform. The guard was still there, as well as the +guard on the other car.</p> + +<p>"Worse and more of it," he exclaimed.</p> + +<p>Then he examined the car, trying to determine +at which window he had been seated. Several were +open, and he determined to try and speak to some +one.</p> + +<p>"Our seats are not far from here," he thought as +he stopped under the second one. "I'll try this."</p> + +<p>He picked up a stone about as big as an egg and +tossed it into the window. A howl from a child +followed the act and Billie ducked under the car. +He could hear the mother pacifying it, but evidently +she, too, had been asleep and had not discovered the +stone.</p> + +<p>"I think I know just which child it is," said Billie +with a grin, "and this next open window must be +ours."</p> + +<p>He picked up another stone and tossed it in to his +second choice, this time with better results.</p> + +<p>Donald had just aroused from a nap, and, missing +Billie, was looking for him. Not seeing him in the +car, he was about to look out of the window when +the stone hit him on the chin.</p> + +<p>"Ouch!" he exclaimed as he started back.</p> + +<p>Billie heard the exclamation and gave the familiar +whistle.</p> + +<p>Donald was on the alert in an instant. Looking +up and down the car to be sure he was not being +watched, he stuck his head out of the window.</p> + +<p>"What is it?" he asked.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72" href="#Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span></p> + +<p>"Trouble," was Billie's laconic reply. "Come +out."</p> + +<p>"How can I? The guard is at the door."</p> + +<p>"Jump out of the window."</p> + +<p>"They might see me."</p> + +<p>Billie thought fast.</p> + +<p>"Let Ad stand between you and the door."</p> + +<p>"Great," from Donald.</p> + +<p>He aroused Adrian and told him the situation.</p> + +<p>"You stay in the train," he said, "and we'll keep +you posted as to what is going on outside. If there +is any real danger we will give the alarm."</p> + +<p>He picked up his overcoat and pretended to be fixing +a pillow. Adrian did the same. Then, while +the guard's back was turned, he dropped out of the +window.</p> + +<p>Billie was beside him when he rose to his feet.</p> + +<p>"This way, Don," he whispered. "Let's get out +into the dark and hold a council of war."</p> + +<p>They glided out into darkness, but where they +could keep their eyes on the engine.</p> + +<p>"Now tell me about it," said Don.</p> + +<p>Billie told him what he had discovered.</p> + +<p>"It does look strange," Donald admitted. "Have +you any plan?"</p> + +<p>"I haven't an idea above an oyster," was the +characteristic reply.</p> + +<p>Donald scratched his ear reflectively.</p> + +<p>"How would it do," he finally asked, "to sneak +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73" href="#Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span> +over by the soldiers and see if we can't pick up some +scrap of conversation that may give us a clue as to +what is going on?"</p> + +<p>"Fine. We must keep together, though. We +might never find each other in the dark if we should +become separated."</p> + +<p>Silently they crawled toward the spot where Billie +had seen the soldiers. When they did not hear any +sign of them after several minutes' crawling they +stopped to listen.</p> + +<p>"There surely was a squad here a few minutes +ago," declared Billie. "They must have moved."</p> + +<p>They remained silently thoughtful for several +minutes, but all was as silent as a graveyard.</p> + +<p>"That's mighty funny," said Billie. "I know I +was not mistaken. Let's go back by the train."</p> + +<p>They turned for that purpose and could see a +group of figures at the platform of each coach.</p> + +<p>"That's the answer," exclaimed Billie. "They +have surrounded the train. Now let's see what will +happen."</p> + +<p>They had not long to wait as an officer shortly +boarded each car and a minute later there was a commotion +among the passengers.</p> + +<p>Drawing a little nearer, the boys could hear the +officer in the car nearest them explaining that the +passengers would be obliged to alight and change +trains.</p> + +<p>"The track has been torn up ahead of us," he said, +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74" href="#Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span> +"and we shall have to walk nearly a mile to where +the train is that came up from Vera Cruz."</p> + +<p>This had been quite the customary thing in Mexico +for some months and the passengers prepared to +obey.</p> + +<p>"I don't believe it is true," said Billie to Donald.</p> + +<p>"We can soon find out," declared Donald. "Let's +walk down the track a piece. We can easily keep +ahead of the crowd."</p> + +<p>Avoiding the glare of the locomotive's headlight, +the boys hurried down the track and when far +enough away from the train to feel secure, they took +the middle of the track.</p> + +<p>"This is far enough ahead," said Donald, "to keep +out of sight and the track is all right so far. I don't +believe it is torn up at all."</p> + +<p>"Then what is up?"</p> + +<p>"That is what I've been trying to decide for nearly +an hour," replied Billie. "It looks as though they +intended to make all the Americans prisoners."</p> + +<p>"But what for?"</p> + +<p>"Why, for hostages, to be sure. Don't you remember +how Cæsar took a lot of the Helvetians for +hostages?"</p> + +<p>"By George!" from Donald. "I believe you are +right. Do you suppose it is Huerta's orders?"</p> + +<p>"I expect so. He hates Americans."</p> + +<p>While the boys had been talking the passengers +had been taken from the train and were now coming +toward them.</p> + +<p>"Let's keep just far enough ahead to see what<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75" href="#Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span> +will happen," said Donald. "We must get in touch +with Adrian somehow."</p> + +<p>They started ahead, but it speedily developed that +the others were not following. Instead they had +been halted a short distance from the locomotive, +back from the track, and surrounded by soldiers.</p> + +<p>"There seems to be a hitch somewhere," Don +finally remarked. "They don't seem to know just +what they do want to do."</p> + +<p>"Come on back and find out," said Billie. "It's up +to us to do something."</p> + +<p>Cautiously they crept back to where they could +hear the conversation among the passengers and the +questions they asked the guard. Some were laughing +and more were expressing indignation. A few +of the women were crying, but above all they could +hear the voice of the florid-faced man telling what +he would do as soon as he could get into touch with +Admiral Fletcher.</p> + +<p>"Which won't be very soon, unless I'm mistaken," +laughed Donald.</p> + +<p>Presently some one began to whistle a popular air, +but in such a way that the boys recognized the well-known +whistle of Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Do you hear that?" asked Billie. "Ad wants to +know what we are doing."</p> + +<p>"He'll have to want for the present," said Don, +"but there go a couple of officers back to the train. +Let's follow them."</p> + +<p>The boys darted into the shadow of the coaches<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76" href="#Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span> +and crept back only a few steps behind what proved +to be the captain in charge of the company and his +second lieutenant.</p> + +<p>"If I only had my automatic, I'd soon settle this +whole matter," declared Billie.</p> + +<p>"You wouldn't hurt anybody, would you?"</p> + +<p>"I'd capture the officer and make him take us to +Vera Cruz."</p> + +<p>"Of course," from Donald. "Why didn't I think +of it before? Let's do it."</p> + +<p>"But we have no weapons."</p> + +<p>"Then we must get some."</p> + +<p>"How?"</p> + +<p>"Keep your eyes open. There must be some way."</p> + +<p>The officers kept on their way until they reached +the first Pullman, where they stopped for a minute.</p> + +<p>"Are the orders in here?" asked the captain.</p> + +<p>"No; the conductor has them. He wouldn't stop +the train without I gave them to him."</p> + +<p>"Carramba! Why didn't you tell me so before? +Go and take them from him and bring them here +at once."</p> + +<p>"Bueno, Capitan! Will you wait here?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I'll go inside. Hurry."</p> + +<p>The lieutenant turned and hurried back. The +boys only saved themselves from being detected by +throwing themselves flat on the ground.</p> + +<p>For a moment the captain remained looking after +his companion and then turned and entered the car.</p> + +<p>"We must have that order," said Donald.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77" href="#Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p> + +<p>"We must!" echoed Billie.</p> + +<p>"Then we'll get it," they exclaimed as one.</p> + +<p>So alike were the thoughts that passed through +their minds that they did not even feel obliged to +speak the plan aloud.</p> + +<p>"Which one of us will stop him?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"You'd better. I'm heavier and I can handle him +easier."</p> + +<p>They walked back some ten feet, where Donald +stopped, while Billie went about ten feet farther and +drew off into the darkness.</p> + +<p>A couple of minutes later they heard the lieutenant +coming. He passed Billie without seeing him.</p> + +<p>Then Donald advanced and met him as by chance.</p> + +<p>"Who comes there?" asked the lieutenant in a +sharp tone, drawing his revolver.</p> + +<p>"Why, hello, lieutenant," said Donald as he came +close to him. "What's happened?"</p> + +<p>The lieutenant eyed him suspiciously.</p> + +<p>"Where did you come from?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"From the rear sleeper. I woke up and found +myself all alone."</p> + +<p>"Humph!" grunted the lieutenant. "You must +have been overlooked. Come with me."</p> + +<p>He started to replace his revolver in its holster +when a slight noise behind him caused him to turn +his head. As he did so, Billie's fist caught him under +the chin and he fell in a heap without making a +sound.</p> + +<p>"Good work!" muttered Donald as he picked up<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78" href="#Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span> +the revolver which the lieutenant had let fall. "Now +to business."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2> + +<h3>DONALD'S STRATEGY.</h3> + + +<p>Lifting the unconscious man in their arms, they +bore him into the darkness away from the train, +where he was soon deprived of his coat, hat, and +weapons. Then he was gagged and securely tied +with his own sabretasche.</p> + +<p>Donald, being nearest the lieutenant's size, donned +his uniform, buckled on his sword, and with the order +in his hand hastily entered the car, closely followed +by Billie, with the ready revolver in his hand.</p> + +<p>The captain had thrown aside his hat and was +smoking a cigarette in one of the easy seats as the +boys entered. He gave them only a hasty glance as +he blew a cloud of smoke into the air, and the next +minute he was covered by Billie's weapon.</p> + +<p>"Up with your hands!" was the stern order.</p> + +<p>The captain hesitated, but a sharp prick from +Donald's sword sent the hands into the air.</p> + +<p>In another minute the captain was disarmed.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Donald sternly, "we'll see what all +this trouble is about."</p> + +<p>He opened the telegram he held in his hand and +read: +</p> + +<p><br /></p> + +<p>"American Admiral has given an ultimatum.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79" href="#Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span> +Hold train and passengers until further orders.</p> + +<div style="margin-left: 30.7em;"><p> +Maas."</p></div> + +<p><br /></p> + +<p>"Who is Maas?" asked Donald sternly.</p> + +<p>The captain shrugged his shoulders, but said +nothing.</p> + +<p>"You'll answer in just one minute, or you'll never +have a chance to answer another question," said +Donald, as he stood with drawn sword, while Billie +covered the captain with his revolver.</p> + +<p>"Would you murder an unarmed man?" asked +the captain.</p> + +<p>"I wouldn't consider it murder. Answer."</p> + +<p>The look in Donald's eyes was not to be mistaken.</p> + +<p>"Gen. Maas is in command of Vera Cruz," the +captain said.</p> + +<p>"Good. I think I see it all. If it is decided not +to accede to the ultimatum, it is proposed to hold the +train load as hostages."</p> + +<p>The captain smiled.</p> + +<p>"Now listen!" and Donald spoke very slowly so +that every word might find lodgment. "You have +one chance for your life. Can you guess what it +is?"</p> + +<p>The captain shook his head.</p> + +<p>"To do just exactly as I bid. Just one little attempt +to do differently, and you are a dead man."</p> + +<p>The captain scowled, but made no reply.</p> + +<p>"Put on your hat and come with me. Order the +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80" href="#Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span> +passengers back on to the train and give your engineer +instructions to cover just as much of the distance +between here and Vera Cruz by daylight as he +knows how!"</p> + +<p>The captain shrugged his shoulders as he arose +from his seat.</p> + +<p>"I see you think it will be easy to escape. Just +put any such idea out of your mind. There is +no possible chance."</p> + +<p>Donald turned to Billie.</p> + +<p>"This is what must be done. We shall walk +directly back to where the passengers are. The captain +will give his order without any hesitation. +Otherwise I shall shoot him through my pocket. +You will keep right behind us. If I fire, you fire +also. One of us will be sure to kill him."</p> + +<p>Donald led the way from the car and Billie +brought up the rear.</p> + +<p>Through the dark they marched, each with a hand +on the captain, so they might feel his slightest +tremor.</p> + +<p>Arriving at the engine the captain summoned the +sergeant.</p> + +<p>"Order the passengers to board the train," was +the brief command.</p> + +<p>The sergeant hastened to obey.</p> + +<p>"Bueno!" said Donald, as the passengers rushed +back.</p> + +<p>Then under his breath to Billie: "Call Adrian."</p> + +<p>Billie did so.</p> + +<p>"Where are you?" Adrian called back.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81" href="#Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p> + +<p>"Down near the engine."</p> + +<p>A moment later Adrian appeared coming through +the crowd of hurrying passengers.</p> + +<p>"Where's Don?" he asked as soon as he caught +sight of Billie.</p> + +<p>"Not far. Stay here. We may need you."</p> + +<p>Adrian's face showed some surprise, but he said +nothing.</p> + +<p>"Now, captain," said Don quietly, "your orders +to the engineer," and under cover of the darkness +he pushed the point of his revolver into the captain's +side, while Billie touched him significantly in the +back.</p> + +<p>The captain gave the order as he had been instructed.</p> + +<p>"Now for the conductor," ordered Donald.</p> + +<p>The order was given, but the conductor refused +to obey.</p> + +<p>"I must have a written order," he said.</p> + +<p>"Why?" asked Donald, in his rôle of lieutenant.</p> + +<p>"To countermand the order of Gen. Maas."</p> + +<p>"Captain," was Donald's quiet hint, "don't you +think it would be well to place the conductor under +arrest?" and again he poked his revolver into the +captain's side.</p> + +<p>The order for the conductor's arrest was quickly +given.</p> + +<p>"Now, then, vamose," called Adrian. Then to +the engineer, "I will act as conductor."</p> + +<p>The guards and extra soldiers who had been detailed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82" href="#Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span> +for this special service, sprang aboard; the +engineer pulled open the throttle and the train began +to move.</p> + +<p>"Aren't you going, too?" asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Yes," whispered Billie to Donald, "hurry aboard +with your prisoner."</p> + +<p>The captain was evidently of the same mind, for +he started to board the already moving train.</p> + +<p>"No you don't," exclaimed Donald, pulling him +back. "You're going to stay here with us!"</p> + +<p>"Do you mean it, Don?" asked Billie in surprise.</p> + +<p>"Sure! What do you think he'd do to us as soon +as it was light?"</p> + +<p>By this time the train was under headway; a +second later the last coach passed them and in another +minute the tail lights were disappearing in the +darkness.</p> + +<p>"It looks to me," remarked Adrian with a long +breath, "as though we were in the consommé."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps," was Donald's laconic reply, "but +those women and children will be safe in Vera Cruz +under the guns of Admiral Fletcher's fleet by daylight, +or I'm greatly mistaken."</p> + +<p>"And what are we going to do with our friend +the captain?" queried Billie.</p> + +<p>"He'll have to accept our hospitality under the +stars until morning and then we'll see."</p> + +<p>In telling about his experiences later Billie said it +was the longest and the shortest night he ever knew. +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83" href="#Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> +It seemed a long time for daylight, but it seemed a +short time for the train which was bearing his countrymen +to safety.</p> + +<p>When day finally began to break, the first thing +that became visible was the snow-tipped peak of Mt. +Orizaba, against which the sun threw his brilliant +rays long before he could be seen above the horizon. +It was a beautiful sight and the boys voiced their +admiration with many exclamations of delight. +Then they turned their attention to the more serious +thoughts for the day.</p> + +<p>The first thing they did was to release the lieutenant +from his unpleasant predicament and restore +to him his uniform.</p> + +<p>"We should like to return you your arms also," +said Donald, "but your government took ours from +us and I think we shall have to keep yours in their +place."</p> + +<p>Neither of the officers made any reply, but their +dark looks boded no good for the boys.</p> + +<p>"You might just as well look pleasant," laughed +Billie. "All is fair in love and war."</p> + +<p>"We'll make you sing a different song when we +get you in Vera Cruz," said the captain.</p> + +<p>"And when do you think that will be, Captain?" +queried Adrian.</p> + +<p>"As soon as the next train comes along."</p> + +<p>"Oh, that's it, is it?" said Donald. "That being +the case, I guess we will not wait for another train. +By the way, how far is it to Vera Cruz?"</p> + +<p>"About a hundred kilometers."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84" href="#Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p> + +<p>"That's about eighty-four miles, isn't it, Ad?"</p> + +<p>"Just about."</p> + +<p>"And it's down hill pretty much all the way, isn't +it?"</p> + +<p>"I should say so by looking down the valley."</p> + +<p>"A right nice little walk, Captain. Let's be going. +We ought to make it easily in four days."</p> + +<p>At this cordial invitation the captain lost his temper.</p> + +<p>"Carramba!" he exclaimed. "Am I a boy to be +made sport of? I will not go. If you wish me to +go you will have to carry me," and he deliberately +laid himself down on the ground.</p> + +<p>In spite of themselves the boys were obliged to +laugh.</p> + +<p>"We carried the lieutenant last night, but we don't +desire your company badly enough to carry you," +laughed Billie. "If you don't want to go, I for one +vote to leave you. We have to forage for something +to eat and the fewer there are, the easier it will be. +And speaking of eats, it seems to me I smell something +cooking right now."</p> + +<p>At Billie's words the others sniffed up their noses.</p> + +<p>"It's a fact as sure as you're born," declared +Donald.</p> + +<p>"And I'm going to find out where the odor comes +from," said Billie. "There must be a house around +here somewhere."</p> + +<p>Again he sniffed the air and smiled jubilantly.</p> + +<p>"The wind's in the east," he laughed. "It must<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85" href="#Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span> +be somewhere in this direction. Come on, Captain."</p> + +<p>The captain refused to move, but Billie led the +way, followed by the two boys. They had not gone +many rods when through an opening in the trees +they beheld a good-sized adobe house. Pushing +hastily toward it, they soon reached a cleared space, +and there, gathered about a bunch of some forty or +fifty horses, were a dozen men, while through the +open door of the house many more were to be seen +seated at a table—eating.</p> + +<p>"Come on!" exclaimed Billie. "I'm going to have +something to eat; I don't care who they are."</p> + +<p>"We might as well make the best of it," declared +Donald. "We are discovered any way and the best +thing we can do is to put on a bold front."</p> + +<p>Without further words the three boys walked +boldly toward the house.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2> + +<h3>A TIMELY RESCUE.</h3> + + +<p>The minute the boys' presence became known, +there was a commotion in the house and in the clearing +surrounding it. Those in the yard sprang toward +their guns and those in the house jumped from +the table.</p> + +<p>"Don't move," called out Billie. "We are<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86" href="#Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span> +friends."</p> + +<p>But the men were not sure and at once surrounded +the boys.</p> + +<p>They appeared to be soldiers, but their uniforms +were of a great variety and many hues. Only the +officer in command had anything the appearance of +a real soldier.</p> + +<p>"Who are you?" he demanded as he came forward.</p> + +<p>"Friends! Americanos!" replied Donald.</p> + +<p>"Yes; and hungry ones," added Billie with a gesture +that brought a smile to the officer's face.</p> + +<p>"Where did you come from?" was the next inquiry.</p> + +<p>Donald explained that they had been left by a +train that had stopped nearby. He did not think it +necessary to enlighten the officer as to the circumstances.</p> + +<p>"If you don't believe us," broke in Billie, "you can +ask the officers we left back there by the track."</p> + +<p>Donald made a gesture of impatience, which Billie +failed to understand, but which the officer was quick +to interpret.</p> + +<p>"Officers? Of which army?" he quickly asked.</p> + +<p>"Gen. Huerta's."</p> + +<p>"Carramba!" exclaimed the officer in command. +"Go quick, corporal, and bring them to me."</p> + +<p>Then to Billie: "If you are telling me the truth +you have done me a great favor."</p> + +<p>The boys looked surprised.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87" href="#Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span></p> + +<p>"How is that?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"Do you not know that we are of the army of +Gen. Carranza?" was the interrogative reply.</p> + +<p>"Why, no!" exclaimed the boys in unison.</p> + +<p>"It is true," said the officer. "I am Captain Lopez. +Now tell me, who are you?"</p> + +<p>Briefly Donald told of their acquaintance with +Gen. Sanchez and of their adventures of the night +before, at which the captain laughed heartily.</p> + +<p>"You are smart boys," he declared.</p> + +<p>"And hungry ones," again added Billie.</p> + +<p>"You must be. Here, Juan," calling a soldier to +him. "Take these <i>muchachos</i> to the house and feed +them. I'll have a look at these rebels."</p> + +<p>"Rebels," said Adrian to Donald under his breath +as they walked toward the house. "Now what do +you think of that?"</p> + +<p>"That's his viewpoint," replied Don. "He thinks +of the men who overthrew President Madero as +rebels."</p> + +<p>By this time they were near enough the house for +Billie to smell the aroma of the coffee and he quickened +his pace.</p> + +<p>"I'll talk politics after I've sampled the breakfast," +he declared. "If the breakfast is good, I'll +join the band."</p> + +<p>It was nearly half an hour later that the boys +stood before the captain. With a good breakfast +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88" href="#Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span> +under their belts they felt fit for anything that +might offer.</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid you boys are in a bad fix," said Captain +Lopez. "I suppose you want to get to Vera +Cruz and on to some ship that will take you to the +United States; but I don't know how you are going +to make it."</p> + +<p>"Why, can't we get another train somewhere +down the line?" asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"There may not be any more trains for some +time."</p> + +<p>"How's that?"</p> + +<p>"We are here to stop them."</p> + +<p>"Does that mean you are going out to tear up the +track?"</p> + +<p>"Not right here, but a little nearer Vera Cruz. +There is a much larger body of troops about five +miles below."</p> + +<p>Billie uttered a prolonged whistle.</p> + +<p>"That does look bad, sure enough," he declared. +Then, after a pause: "What's the matter with +walking?"</p> + +<p>"It's a long ways and the mountains are full of +our men."</p> + +<p>"Can't you give us a safe passage? You say we +have done you a favor by turning these two officers +over to you," suggested Donald, indicating with a +nod of his head the captain and lieutenant of the +train guard who were now held prisoners.</p> + +<p>"I'll do the best I can," was the reply, "but you +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89" href="#Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span> +will have to remain with me to-day. We are on +scout duty and shall not return to the main body +until to-night."</p> + +<p>"That'll suit me all right," laughed Billie, "and +if you don't mind I think I'll go into the house +somewhere and take a nap."</p> + +<p>"Bueno," laughed the captain. "You might as +well all take a nap. If we have occasion to leave +the neighborhood we will call you."</p> + +<p>Ten minutes later the three were fast asleep on +a pile of Mexican blankets in the best room in the +house.</p> + +<p>Three hours later they were awakened by a fusillade +of shots.</p> + +<p>They sprang to their feet and looked around. +For just a moment they could not remember where +they were. Then they recalled their situation and +became on the alert.</p> + +<p>"Trouble outside," was Don's laconic statement.</p> + +<p>He and Billie drew the revolvers they had captured +the night before.</p> + +<p>"Put 'em up," advised Adrian. "We're not here +to fight."</p> + +<p>"We might have to," from Billie.</p> + +<p>"Not at all. If one side wins, we are safe. If +the other side wins, we are prisoners and the attackers +will be our rescuers."</p> + +<p>"Great head, Ad," was Billie's comment. "But +I'd like to know what is going on," as another +fusillade was heard.</p> + +<p>"Better stay where we are till the shooting stops,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90" href="#Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span> +said Don.</p> + +<p>It was good advice and the boys waited as quietly +as they could.</p> + +<p>A few minutes later there was a volley and a +shout, followed by the sound of rushing feet. Then +there was quiet as the shots were heard receding.</p> + +<p>When none of their friends returned after a few +minutes, the boys ventured to the door. There was +no one in sight.</p> + +<p>"I wonder where they have all gone?" ventured +Billie.</p> + +<p>"I expect that our friends have run away and +some of Huerta's soldiers are chasing them."</p> + +<p>"If they do, they will run into an ambush," said +Adrian.</p> + +<p>Which is exactly what happened.</p> + +<p>"That won't do us any good," said Don. "Now +that we are alone, I vote that we get back to the +railroad track. We won't get lost if we follow that +and a train may come along."</p> + +<p>The advice seemed good and they started to go.</p> + +<p>"Hold on," exclaimed Billie. "Let's see if we +can't find some grub to take with us."</p> + +<p>"Great head!" laughed Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Great stomach, you mean," from Donald. "It +never lets him forget."</p> + +<p>The boys plundered through the house. The +owners must have been scared away, for nothing +had been disturbed. In the kitchen they found a +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91" href="#Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span> +big plate of <i>tortillas</i>, half a baked kid, and some +wheat bread. This they appropriated.</p> + +<p>"We might as well have a blanket apiece," said +Donald. "It is only another case of a fair exchange. +The Mexicans have our suit cases."</p> + +<p>Each took a blanket and Adrian was so fortunate +after searching all over the house as to find a shotgun +and a belt full of loaded shells that went with it.</p> + +<p>"If those shells were loaded with buckshot you'd +be all right," said Billie. "They're the——"</p> + +<p>His speech was interrupted by a cry that fairly +made their blood run cold.</p> + +<p>"What's that?" and the three stopped as though +they had been paralysed.</p> + +<p>Again came the cry, and with a single bound the +boys were out in the open, each with his weapon +ready for instant use.</p> + +<p>They could see no one, but there was the sound +of something crashing through the brush which hid +the railroad from the house.</p> + +<p>"Sounded like a wild cat," declared Donald.</p> + +<p>"Or a coyote," said Billie.</p> + +<p>"I'm sure it was a human voice," remarked +Adrian. "Do you remember the Zuñis?" referring +to another adventure told in the story of the +"Broncho Rider Boys Along the Border."</p> + +<p>Even as he spoke there emerged from the brush +the figure of a woman carrying in her arms a small +child. Winged by fear, she was bounding along like +an antelope.</p> + +<p>A moment later, and not two rods behind her,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92" href="#Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span> +came forth a figure which the boys instantly recognized +as a mountain lion.</p> + +<p>How the woman had succeeded in escaping it +even for a moment was a mystery.</p> + +<p>In a second the three weapons spoke. The report +was followed by a scream from the beast and +a cry from the woman, both of whom fell lifeless +to the earth—the beast dead and the woman in a +swoon.</p> + +<p>"Take care of the woman, you two," said Adrian. +"I'll examine the beast."</p> + +<p>No one stopped to question the order.</p> + +<p>Billie picked up the child which the woman had +let fall, while Donald stooped down and felt the +woman's pulse. Then he darted into the house and +was back in a minute with a bucket half filled with +water. With it he bathed the woman's temples and +poured a little down her throat.</p> + +<p>In a couple of minutes she revived and looked +around.</p> + +<p>"Mi niña!" she gasped.</p> + +<p>"She's asking for her child," said Donald.</p> + +<p>Billie carried the little one over and stood it +beside her.</p> + +<p>With a glad cry she snatched it in her arms +and burst into tears.</p> + +<p>"She's all right," laughed Donald. "Now let's +have a look at that animal."</p> + +<p>They walked over to where Adrian was watching<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93" href="#Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> +the inanimate carcass.</p> + +<p>"Where did we hit him?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"I can see three places and one is big enough to +throw a baseball through it."</p> + +<p>"That's from the shotgun," said Donald. "It's +what did the business. Must have been buckshot +and we were so close it didn't have a chance to +scatter."</p> + +<p>"I'd sure like that hide," said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"We'll be in luck if we save our own," remarked +Billie. "Unless we can do something for the woman, +we'd better be jogging along."</p> + +<p>By this time the woman had risen to her feet and +the boys could see that she was not a peon as they +had supposed, but of the better class.</p> + +<p>"Where could she have come from?" queried +Donald under his breath.</p> + +<p>"Suppose you ask her," laughed Adrian.</p> + +<p>Donald did so. At first she was too dazed to +answer, but after Donald spoke a few words quietly +and in his very best Spanish, she was able to answer +his questions.</p> + +<p>"Is this your house?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"No, Señor; my house is down the mountain."</p> + +<p>"What are you doing here alone?"</p> + +<p>She gave him a startled glance and then hugged +the child closer to her breast.</p> + +<p>"You need not fear us," were the reassuring +words.</p> + +<p>"The soldiers came," she said slowly. "They had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94" href="#Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span> +already killed the others. They would have killed +me."</p> + +<p>"The soldiers?"</p> + +<p>"Yes. They were looking for my husband. They +said he was hidden in the house; but he was not. +He is with Gen. Carranza."</p> + +<p>"When was this?"</p> + +<p>"Yesterday. I have been in the mountains all +night. There was a fight a few minutes ago and I +saw them pass. Then I came here, when the awful +beast sprang out," and again she drew the child to +her.</p> + +<p>"Are you hungry?"</p> + +<p>"Si, señor!"</p> + +<p>It was the child that answered.</p> + +<p>In an instant Billie's hand was in his pack and +he held out the <i>tortillas</i>, which both mother and +child took and ate ravenously.</p> + +<p>After their hunger had been appeased, they questioned +the woman further, telling her they were going +to Vera Cruz.</p> + +<p>"If you will come with me down the mountain, +you can hide in my house," she said.</p> + +<p>"We don't want to hide," laughed Billie. "We +want to get to Vera Cruz. However, we'll see you +home, if you don't mind."</p> + +<p>Without more words the woman led the way, +Billie insisting upon carrying the little girl.</p> + +<p>After a walk of more than two hours, the woman +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95" href="#Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span> +stopped in a little clearing from which a view of the +mountainside for miles could be gained.</p> + +<p>"There is my house," she said, pointing to the +roof of a really noble mansion constructed of stone. +"But what is that flag I see on top of it?"</p> + +<p>The boys took one good look at it and then they +let out a wild yell.</p> + +<p>"Hurrah!" they cried. "It's the Stars and +Stripes."</p> + +<p>"I don't know what it means away out here," said +Donald, "but wherever it is it means something. +Come on!" and he dashed down the mountainside, +followed by the others.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2> + +<h3>FRIENDS IN DISTRESS.</h3> + + +<p>Half an hour later the boys stopped beside a +ruined wall in which was a still more ruined gate.</p> + +<p>It was the home of Gen. Luiz Blanco, whose wife +and child it was that the boys had saved from the +mountain lion.</p> + +<p>Above the house, on a lofty turret, waved the +American flag—a fact which caused the boys to +enter the gate and approach the house without hesitation.</p> + +<p>But when they reached the great front door leading +into the patio, they found it shut and barred.</p> + +<p>Here they knocked loudly.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96" href="#Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span></p> + +<p>For some minutes there was no reply, despite +repeated knocks, but finally a voice called out in +English:</p> + +<p>"Who's there?"</p> + +<p>"American boys in trouble."</p> + +<p>"What?" was the surprised reply. "Say it again, +till I see if it is true."</p> + +<p>"It's true all right, all right," said Billie. "If +you don't believe it we'll sing the 'Star Spangled +Banner,' or 'Hail Columbia'."</p> + +<p>They could hear some one removing the bars and +a moment later the gate swung open, and a huge, +bewhiskered man in ragged garments and a Winchester +rifle in his hand stood before them.</p> + +<p>"Come in quick," he commanded, "and let's get +this gate barred. There is no knowing when that +band of robbers will be back."</p> + +<p>"Robbers?" queried Billie, as he set the little girl +on the ground and extended his hand to the man. +"What robbers?"</p> + +<p>"They call themselves soldiers," and the man +seized Billie's hand and gave it a mighty grip, which +made even Broncho Billie wince, "but what do we +care for them? With four Americans we can defy +a hundred of them." Then, as Donald and Adrian +finished barring the gate: "It's certainly good for +sore eyes to see such faces," and he grasped each +boy in turn.</p> + +<p>"Well, we're mighty glad to see you," replied<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97" href="#Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span> +Donald. "We expected to find the place deserted."</p> + +<p>"How did you know anything about the place?"</p> + +<p>"This lady told us it is her home."</p> + +<p>"What?" from the man. "Do you mean to tell +me this is the Señora Blanco?"</p> + +<p>"Even so, Señor," replied the lady. "No one +would recognize me in these rags and grief. Oh, +Señor, had it not been for these brave Americans I +should have been devoured by a lion."</p> + +<p>"You don't tell me. But I'd know they were the +real thing. Their faces show it. But come, let's go +into the house. You'll excuse me, Señora, for taking +possession of your castle."</p> + +<p>"It is yours, Señor. Do with it as you will. But +will you not do me the favor of your name?"</p> + +<p>"I beg your pardon, Señora. I had forgotten. I +am Ebenezer Black, who owns the ranch across the +valley. My daughter and I were out on a hunt for +some lost cattle when we were waylaid by this so-called +company of soldiers. I drove them off but +my daughter was wounded and I made for this +place. Finding no one at home, I took possession."</p> + +<p>"I am so glad, Señor. And where is your daughter +now?"</p> + +<p>"Sitting in a big armchair, nursing a wounded +arm."</p> + +<p>"Oh, let us hasten," cried the señora. "I may be +of some assistance."</p> + +<p>They hurried into the house and into the great +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98" href="#Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span> +library, now all in disorder and strewn with bits of +cigars and cigarettes. In one of the big leather +chairs sat a girl of some sixteen or seventeen, with +her left arm in a sling, but in her right hand she +held a glistening revolver. She was very slight, but +dressed in a riding costume of unique design, and +with a wealth of soft brown hair hanging just to +her collar. With just a touch of pallor due to the +wound, the boys thought her the most beautiful girl +they had ever seen, not excepting Pedro's sister +Guadalupe.</p> + +<p>That the girl was surprised at the addition to the +party goes without saying. She looked first at her +father, then at the newcomers and then back to her +father, as much as to ask: "Who are they?"</p> + +<p>"This," said Mr. Black as the señora came forward, +"is the lady of the house and her daughter. +These are American boys, as you can see, although +you haven't had a chance to know many American +boys. I don't know their names, but names don't +count. I'll vouch for them."</p> + +<p>"We are very highly complimented," laughed +Donald, "but I shall be pleased to introduce us. I +am Donald Mackay. Now that you know me, I +will introduce my friends, Adrian Sherwood, ranch +owner and good fellow, and William Stonewall +Jackson Winkle, better known as 'Broncho Billie.' +We are known as the Broncho Rider Boys."</p> + +<p>"Oh, Father," exclaimed the girl, "I've read +about them. I have a book some one sent me from +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99" href="#Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span> +the United States telling about their adventures at +the Keystone ranch."</p> + +<p>"You don't say so," from her father. "I didn't +know they were such celebrities. Such being the +case, young gentlemen, allow me to introduce my +daughter, Josephine, commonly called Josie. Now +then, how did you all come here?"</p> + +<p>As briefly as possible Adrian related their adventures +since they left the City of Mexico the previous +morning; told about the information contained in +the telegram from Gen. Maas, and wound up by +saying: "We may be at war with Mexico right +now for all we know."</p> + +<p>"Well, now what do you think of that?" exclaimed +Mr. Black. "I just knew I had a reason +when I hoisted that flag. It's one Josie always carries +in her saddle bags. It makes her feel safer, she +says."</p> + +<p>"And I hope she is safer," exclaimed Billie, "with +it waving over her to-day, than she would be without +it."</p> + +<p>"At any rate she has more protection than she +had a few hours ago," ventured the señora. "I +shall never forget how I was protected."</p> + +<p>"I'd feel a whole lot better," said Donald, "if I +had some other weapon. A Colt does very well in +a tight place; but I certainly miss my Marlin."</p> + +<p>"We formerly had quite a supply of arms," was +the explanation offered by the señora, "but when +Gen. Blanco went to join Gen. Carranza he armed +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100" href="#Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span> +all his men and it took about everything we had. +However, there are a few weapons left—unless," +she added as an afterthought, "the Huerta soldiers +have discovered their hiding place."</p> + +<p>She led the way to the cellar and pointed to a +spot at one side.</p> + +<p>"If you will brush away the dirt that covers the +floor about there," she said, "you will find a large +slab. This can be raised, and underneath there +should still be several good rifles."</p> + +<p>Donald and Billie, who had accompanied her, +while Adrian remained up stairs with the others, +quickly followed her instructions. The edges of +the slab were exposed to view and after some effort +the opening was revealed. In it were four rifles +and an old-fashioned cannon. The rifles were not +of the latest make, but two were magazine rifles +and were a decided improvement over revolvers in +case it came to defending the house.</p> + +<p>"I suppose that old cannon might be mounted on +the roof somehow and made effective," said Donald +after he and Billie had inspected the other arms. +Then to the señora: "Is there any ammunition?"</p> + +<p>"There was powder in that wine cask," she replied, +"but I don't know whether there is any left. +The balls for the cannon are on the roof."</p> + +<p>The boys examined the cask and found it contained +quite a quantity of powder. Then they all +returned to the library and made their report.</p> + +<p>"Not a very heavy armament to withstand a siege, +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101" href="#Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span> +is it?" was Mr. Black's comment. "Half a dozen +rifles with about a hundred cartridges, an old cannon +that might explode any minute, and four revolvers. +It won't do."</p> + +<p>"What else can we do?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"Why, now that there are four of us, we'll cross +the valley to my house. It is just as well located +to withstand a siege as this and it is thoroughly +armed and provisioned."</p> + +<p>"Suppose we have to fight?"</p> + +<p>"Then we'll fight."</p> + +<p>"But you forget your daughter and the señora +and her child."</p> + +<p>"I didn't forget Josie," was the reply, "and, +wounded as she is, she can take care of herself; but +I don't know about the others. They would be a +handicap. Have you anything better to offer?"</p> + +<p>Billie scratched his head.</p> + +<p>"Not for the moment."</p> + +<p>"Well, I have," exclaimed Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I thought it was about time Ad woke up," +laughed Donald. "Let's have it."</p> + +<p>"Captain Lopez told us that there was a large +body of Carranza's troops down the railroad a short +distance. If he meant by a short distance six or +eight miles they can not be more than a couple of +miles from where we now are. I feel sure that the +skirmish we passed through has proved disastrous +to the Huerta forces and I am willing to go out and +find Captain Lopez and bring relief."</p> + +<p>"And I'll go with you," said Billie.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102" href="#Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span></p> + +<p>"I can do just as well alone. If I am not captured +by the other side I shall make it easily, and," +he added, "I am sure I shall not be captured, for I +can lick any squad of peons that I'm likely to meet."</p> + +<p>"You are a brave boy," said Josie, a bit of praise +which brought the color to Adrian's cheeks and was +an added incentive for bravery.</p> + +<p>"But why shouldn't I go?" insisted Billie.</p> + +<p>"You may be needed here. This house is a +marked place and if a small band of the Huerta +forces has escaped, this will be one of the places +where they will rally."</p> + +<p>"Your friend is right," agreed Mr. Black. "I +admire the pluck of all of you, but his plan is best. +The sooner he goes the better and we will make the +house as impregnable as we can. Let us hope he is +successful."</p> + +<p>"You can bet on me," was Adrian's reply as he +shouldered his rifle, looked to the fastening of his +belt, and descended to the gate, where Mr. Black +let him out.</p> + +<p>After Adrian had gone the others inspected the +house and its approaches for the purpose of determining +where they might mount the cannon. They +finally decided upon a spot in an angle of the roof, +where a chimney offered some protection and from +which it commanded the main approach to the +house.</p> + +<p>"I'm not sure we will be able to get the cannon +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103" href="#Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> +up there," laughed Billie as they passed through the +library on their way to the cellar, "but we'll do the +best we can."</p> + +<p>"Don't worry," was Josie's reply. "You don't +know how strong Dad is."</p> + +<p>The boys thought they could guess, but when they +saw Mr. Black pick up the cannon as though it had +been a log of cord wood and carry it upstairs they +concluded that Josie was right.</p> + +<p>"When I was a young man," was Mr. Black's only +comment, "I was considered the strongest man in +our county. I reckon if it came to a pinch I'd be a +pretty hard man to handle even yet."</p> + +<p>The boys had no doubt of it.</p> + +<p>By the time the cannon was mounted and loaded +the sun was nearing the top of the mountains behind +them and a few minutes later it sank from sight.</p> + +<p>"It won't be long now until we shall have to +depend upon our ears instead of our eyes for our +protection," said Donald. "Where is the best place +to watch?"</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you what I think," said Billie. "Let one +watch from the roof and the other down by the gate. +The one on the roof can hear noises from a distance. +The one by the gate can hear any one who +may be sneaking around."</p> + +<p>"I'll watch on the roof," said the señora. "I know +the chirp of every bird that belongs here. I shall +know in a minute if anything happens that is unusual."</p> + +<p>"And I'll watch by the gate," declared Donald.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104" href="#Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span></p> + +<p>"Only till midnight," said Billie, "when I'll relieve +you."</p> + +<p>"And I'll relieve the señora," said Josie.</p> + +<p>"Where do I come in?" queried Mr. Black.</p> + +<p>"You are the general, Dad. You can be everywhere."</p> + +<p>Sentry duty is always nerve-racking business. If +you have ever been obliged to sit alone in the dark +and watch with your ears, you will understand +this and you will understand how Donald felt +sitting alone by the barred gate in the dark, +3,000 miles from home and in the midst of a +war-stricken country.</p> + +<p>Even the north star looked unfamiliar, so close +was it to the northern horizon. Once in a while he +fancied he could hear the señora weeping, but for at +least three hours this was all he heard.</p> + +<p>Then he heard a distinct "S-s-s-s," which was +the signal agreed upon between him and the señora +if she heard anything unusual.</p> + +<p>In an instant he was on the alert. Yes, he was +sure he heard footsteps near the gate, without. Then +there were some minutes of silence, then the hiss of +a fuse and a moment later an explosion which blew +the gate from its hinges.</p> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /><div><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105" href="#Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span></div> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII.</h2> + +<h3>A NIGHT ATTACK.</h3> + + +<p>Realizing in an instant that the hiss of the fuse, +like the rattle of the snake, betokened danger, Donald +drew hastily back into the patio in time to be +out of reach of the explosion which splintered the +gate and tore it from its hinges.</p> + +<p>Then, with finger on trigger, he awaited the coming +of the foe.</p> + +<p>It was a tense moment and the boy's heart beat +fast. He had been in many trying situations, but +never in one where the safety of so many others +seemed to depend upon him.</p> + +<p>He heard the sound of oncoming feet and intuitively +threw himself upon the ground behind a +little stone paling which surrounded a dismantled +fountain.</p> + +<p>The act undoubtedly saved his life, for an instant +later there was a scattering volley and he could +hear the bullets hit against the stone wall of the +house behind him.</p> + +<p>In an instant he pressed the trigger and a yell +which followed gave evidence that the bullet found +a mark.</p> + +<p>He fired again, but evidently without effect, and a +minute later a light at one side of the patio told +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106" href="#Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span> +him that the enemy, or a part of them at least, were +inside the gate.</p> + +<p>As the light flared up Donald fired again, but +again without avail; but a moment later the cannon +on the roof spoke.</p> + +<p>"So," he thought, "Billie and Mr. Black are at +last awake."</p> + +<p>At the report of the cannon the light went out and +there was the rush of scurrying feet, followed by +a shout.</p> + +<p>The shout indicated that those within the patio +had withdrawn to the other side of the gate.</p> + +<p>Feeling sure that the patio was now free of the +enemy for a time at least, Donald retreated in the +dark to the house and was soon inside. At the first +landing he encountered Josie, sitting on a step with +a ready revolver. He was able to see her by the +dim light of an oil lamp which hung from the +ceiling.</p> + +<p>"Where are the others?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"On the roof. They are trying to locate the +enemy."</p> + +<p>Donald ascended to the roof.</p> + +<p>"I have a plan," he said, "which will enable us to +get in another shot. Load with shrapnel and I will +see if I can't make some sort of a light outside the +gate. Be ready on the instant."</p> + +<p>He ran downstairs and again crept out into the +dark patio. He had noticed in the afternoon that +there were several bundles of straw in the stable.</p> + +<p>Taking one of these under his arm, he approached<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107" href="#Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> +the angle in the wall near the outer gate. He lighted +a match and as the flame caught the straw he flung +the bundle over the wall, at the same time darting +inside the stable.</p> + +<p>He had hardly found a safe position when the +cannon spoke again and evidently with telling effect.</p> + +<p>But before those inside the walls had time to +think, the enemy rushed in, determined to capture +the place.</p> + +<p>In the dark they rushed to the house, but once +under the gallery which extended all around the +inside of the patio, they produced a light which +enabled them to find the doors.</p> + +<p>The light also enabled Donald to see those at the +door and he fired from the stable.</p> + +<p>For a moment the fire in the rear disconcerted +the enemy and several fled, but others took possession +of the doorway and forced their way in.</p> + +<p>The first one who entered fell by a bullet from +Josie's revolver; but realizing her weakness she +jumped and fled to the floor above, where she met +her father coming down.</p> + +<p>"They have gained possession of the house," Mr. +Black told Billie as he and the señora also descended +from the roof. "We must now guard the stairway. +We should be able to hold it indefinitely."</p> + +<p>This prediction seemed correct, as the first four +or five men who attempted to reach the second +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108" href="#Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span> +story never got more than their heads above the +floor.</p> + +<p>After several trials of this sort, they withdrew +and held a council of war. The result was that a +few minutes later a voice called out from below:</p> + +<p>"If you will surrender, your lives will be spared."</p> + +<p>In reply Mr. Black shouted: "If you do not +withdraw and leave us in peace you will meet a fearful +punishment."</p> + +<p>His reply was greeted with jeers.</p> + +<p>"I wonder how many of them there are?" queried +Billie.</p> + +<p>"Quite a bunch from the sound." Then, a moment +later, "They seem to be going out."</p> + +<p>"Maybe they think we will come down," said +Josie.</p> + +<p>"But we must not," exclaimed the señora. "They +would kill us. Surely our friend must bring us +aid soon."</p> + +<p>"Let us hope so," was Mr. Black's reply.</p> + +<p>And hope was the best they could do.</p> + +<p>There was no further attack, although they could +hear the sound of voices in the patio below.</p> + +<p>After a long period of quiet Mr. Black ventured +the assertion that they were waiting for daylight, +and his surmise proved correct.</p> + +<p>No attempt was made to force an entrance until +the first faint light of day began to appear. Then +there was renewed activity below and a few minutes +later the sound of a single shot.</p> + +<p>"I wonder what that was," exclaimed Billie.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109" href="#Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span></p> + +<p>No one could answer, but had Billie been where he +could see, he would have known that it was Donald +who fired.</p> + +<p>As the light came, Donald, peering through a +crack in the stable, had seen a man climbing up the +side of the house toward the roof. Without a +moment's hesitation he fired and the man dropped, +shot through the right hand.</p> + +<p>But the shot was Donald's undoing. The flash of +his gun was detected and half a dozen men rushed +his hiding place and took him prisoner.</p> + +<p>He was at once taken before the captain of the +band and questioned as to the number of defenders +and as to the whereabouts of Gen. Blanco.</p> + +<p>To all the questions Donald gave an evasive +answer.</p> + +<p>"If you will tell me where Gen. Blanco is," said +the captain, "I will give you your freedom."</p> + +<p>"That's easy," was Donald's reply. "He is with +Gen. Carranza."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe it."</p> + +<p>"Well, I can't help that, nor does what you believe +make any difference. It is the truth and what +you may believe has nothing whatever to do with +it."</p> + +<p>The captain scowled.</p> + +<p>"Who is it then, that is defending the house?"</p> + +<p>"Americans. You had better let us go, or it will +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110" href="#Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span> +be the worse for you. We had a safe conduct from +Gen. Huerta, but we were betrayed."</p> + +<p>"If I had my way," said the captain, "I'd shoot +every American in the whole of Mexico."</p> + +<p>"I don't see why," from Donald. "We have +nothing against you."</p> + +<p>"Take him away," ordered the captain, "and see +that he does not escape. Now let us capture the +others."</p> + +<p>There was a rush for the house as Donald was +led back to the stable.</p> + +<p>Billie and Mr. Black heard them coming.</p> + +<p>"Go to the roof," commanded Mr. Black, speaking +to the two females, "and keep yourselves and +the little girl out of sight. We will hold them back +here as long as we can and then we will also come +to the roof."</p> + +<p>The command had hardly been obeyed than the +Mexicans began to crowd up the stairs. They were +met with shot after shot, but at last all the weapons +were empty.</p> + +<p>"Run for the roof," said Mr. Black as he arose +to his feet and with his heavy boot kicked a head +which was just coming up the stairs.</p> + +<p>Billie obeyed and a minute later the fugitives had +gathered upon the last place of safety left.</p> + +<p>"If we only had some ammunition," moaned Billie. +"Can't we do something?"</p> + +<p>Then, as in answer to his own query, he picked +up a twelve-pound cannon ball that lay on the roof +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111" href="#Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span> +and, raising it above his head with both hands, +hurled it through the opening upon those below.</p> + +<p>This unexpected attack caused the besiegers to +draw back, but only for a moment. Then they came +on again. In his desperation, Mr. Black, with almost +superhuman strength, picked up the cannon +itself, just as Billie had picked up the ball, and +hurled it down the stairs.</p> + +<p>Half a dozen men fell beneath its weight, while +the others, frightened at such an exhibition of +strength, fell back in dismay.</p> + +<p>A shout from the captain urged them forward, +but ere they could gather their courage for another +rush there came the sound of a volley in the patio +below and a minute later Adrian rushed up the +stairs, followed by Captain Lopez and a squad of +his soldiers.</p> + +<p>Taken in the rear and entirely by surprise, the +Huerta forces threw down their arms and cried for +mercy, and in less than five minutes after the arrival +of Captain Lopez and his men, the entire force, or +as many as remained, were prisoners.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII.</h2> + +<h3>A NARROW ESCAPE.</h3> + + +<p>Two days later the three boys sat on the verandah +of Mr. Black's commodious house awaiting the call +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112" href="#Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span> +to breakfast. Under escort of Captain Lopez' men +they had crossed the valley between Mr. Black's and +Gen. Blanco's the day after the night attack and had +spent the time since in getting a much needed rest.</p> + +<p>"It's less than four days since we left the City of +Mexico," remarked Donald, "but it seems like a +month. I wonder how matters stand at Vera +Cruz?"</p> + +<p>"From that telegram from Gen. Maas, that we +took from the lieutenant, Admiral Fletcher may +have taken the city," said Billie.</p> + +<p>"I hope not," from Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Why?" asked both the others.</p> + +<p>"'Cause I'd like to be there when it happens."</p> + +<p>"Yes, so would I," echoed Billie.</p> + +<p>"If he has taken it," ventured Donald, "we may +have difficulty getting through the Mexican lines."</p> + +<p>"Well, the best thing we can do," asserted Adrian, +"is to get somewhere and find out what is going +on just as soon as we can."</p> + +<p>The call to breakfast interrupted their conversation, +but as soon as they were seated at the table, +they broached the matter to Mr. Black.</p> + +<p>"I expect you are right," he said, "but I'd like to +have you stay with me a while. It's mighty lonesome +here for Josie and me."</p> + +<p>"If we are at war with the Mexicans," remarked +Billie, "this will be an unhealthy place for an American, +I imagine. I should think you would want to +take your daughter away from here." +</p> + +<p>"Oh, Josie and I are not afraid, are we, Josie?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113" href="#Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p> + +<p>"No indeed, Dad. We are a match for a regiment +of Mexicans when we are on our own ground."</p> + +<p>But in spite of the assertion made by Mr. Black +he admitted to the boys after breakfast when Josie +was not present that he wished his daughter was +safe in Vera Cruz.</p> + +<p>"Why don't you go with us?" asked Adrian. +"We should be pleased to act as an escort."</p> + +<p>"Yes," echoed Billie. "We'll see you through."</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you what I had thought of doing," said +Mr. Black. "It's only a good day's ride a-horseback +to Moreno. We have many friends there with +whom I could leave her. If you boys would act as +an escort that far you would be no farther from +Vera Cruz than you are now and I believe you +would have a better chance in reaching the port over +the Tierra Blanca division than on the main line."</p> + +<p>"Whether we would or not," replied Adrian, "we +should be glad to act as your escort."</p> + +<p>"There is another thing in favor of that route," +continued Mr. Black. "The farther we keep from +the main line of railroad, the less likely we are to +fall in with the Huerta forces. The southern territory +as far as Santa Lucrecia is practically in the +hands of Carranza."</p> + +<p>"From what you say," was Donald's comment, +"it is greatly to our advantage to do as you wish. +Let's consider the matter settled and start at once."</p> + +<p>"It's too late in the day to start now," was Mr. +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114" href="#Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span> +Black's reply. "We shall wait until to-morrow +morning and be on our way by daylight. I don't +want to be riding through the mountains after dark. +There are wild animals that are worse than the +soldiers."</p> + +<p>"As the Señora Blanco can testify," laughed Billie. +"Every time I think of what a close shave +she had, it gives me a chill."</p> + +<p>That afternoon Mr. Black brought out half a +dozen horses for the inspection of his guests.</p> + +<p>"A day's ride on a strange horse isn't always an +easy task," he explained, "and I thought you might +amuse yourself trying these. You can each pick +out the one that suits him best."</p> + +<p>It was a task which suited the boys better than +any they had undertaken in days, and as they had +not only Mr. Black, but Josie and the General's +wife for spectators, they were more than pleased +to show their dexterity after true cowboy fashion.</p> + +<p>The remainder of the afternoon was therefore +spent in riding, throwing the lariat and in shooting, +much to the gratification of Mr. Black, who +declared he had never seen a better exhibition of its +kind.</p> + +<p>As a result of their experience, the boys picked +out three medium-sized horses, which Mr. Black +emphatically stated showed their good judgment of +horse flesh, as completely as their riding had proved +their horsemanship.</p> + +<p>They were all in the saddle early the following +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115" href="#Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span> +morning, Josie's wound having healed sufficiently +to permit her to ride without danger.</p> + +<p>Early morning in the tropics is the pleasantest +time of the day, and although the road from Mr. +Black's hacienda to Moreno would take them from +an altitude of over four thousand feet down to +about two thousand feet above sea level, they +would be sufficiently up in the mountains to make +riding fairly comfortable.</p> + +<p>The route chosen took the little party first to +the headquarters of the Carranza force operating +in that section. They were warmly greeted by +General Dorantes, the commanding officer, who furnished +them with a guard of four men and passes +through the lines, "if," he added as he bade them +good luck, "you should find it necessary to pass our +lines. If my reports are correct, we are in possession +of all the territory to the south."</p> + +<p>For hours the cavalcade rode on without incident, +stopping only long enough to partake of a +mid-day meal at the hacienda of Don Alvaro Flores, +a friend of Mr. Black's. Late in the afternoon, +however, when about six miles from their destination, +there came to their ears the sound of heavy +firing—of field pieces mingled with the occasional +roll of a machine gun.</p> + +<p>They stopped and listened intently.</p> + +<p>"Which direction do you make the firing to be?" +asked Mr. Black of the corporal in command of the +escort.</p> + +<p>"In the direction of Tierra Blanca, sir. It sounds<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116" href="#Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span> +as though our forces might have been attacked."</p> + +<p>"How will that affect our journey?"</p> + +<p>"Hard to tell, sir. If we win, as we shall, the +enemy may fall back toward Santa Lucrecia, or they +may retreat toward Moreno. If you will take my +advice, you will halt here until the action is over."</p> + +<p>The advice seemed most excellent and the cavalcade +came to a halt and the riders dismounted to +give themselves a much-needed rest.</p> + +<p>The firing lasted something like twenty minutes, +then suddenly ceased, with the exception of an +occasional "Boom!"</p> + +<p>"It sounds as though we had beaten them off," +said the corporal.</p> + +<p>"Is there any way that we can tell in which direction +they have retreated?"</p> + +<p>"Only by a reconnoiter."</p> + +<p>"Which is our long suit," declared Billie. "You +just stay here with the guard, Mr. Black, and we +three will soon have a report."</p> + +<p>Looking to their arms, with which they had +been well supplied by their host before leaving the +hacienda, the boys rode forward toward an elevation +something like a mile distant. From this +they hoped to get a view of the country.</p> + +<p>There was a fairly level road and they dashed +along at a good rate despite their long ride. The +horses were as hard as iron and the boys did not +know the meaning of the word tired.</p> + +<p>Reaching the top of the hill, they found a space,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117" href="#Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span> +from which they could see clear across the valley +through which ran the railroad from Santa Lucrecia +to Vera Cruz. To the right, some miles away, they +could see a good-sized little city which their common +sense told them must be Tierra Blanca. To +the left, but nearer, was the smaller town of Moreno, +for which they were headed.</p> + +<p>Between the two towns, and coming directly toward +them, was a band of galloping horsemen, probably +one hundred or more in number.</p> + +<p>"Great Scott!" was Billie's ejaculation as he +caught sight of the horsemen, "they're coming right +at us."</p> + +<p>"I believe you are right," from Donald. "They +seem to be on this very road."</p> + +<p>"What would you take them to be?" was Billie's +next question.</p> + +<p>"Give it up," replied Donald.</p> + +<p>"I'll bet I can make a good guess," said Adrian. +"They are a flying column of Huerta cavalry, sent +out to test the Carranza lines. They have paid +their respects to Tierra Blanca and now they are +headed for Cordoba."</p> + +<p>"They'll never get there," said Billie. "They'll +run into General Dorante's men."</p> + +<p>"But if it's a surprise, they'll cut their way +through."</p> + +<p>"It's up to us to see that it is not a surprise!" +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118" href="#Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span> +cried Donald. "Come on!" and he turned and +dashed back the road they had come.</p> + +<p>In less than five minutes they were where they +had left their companions. In another two minutes +they had told their story and in another minute +the corporal and his men were on their way back +toward General Dorante's headquarters.</p> + +<p>"It's only a question of whose horses are the +best," said Mr. Black. "And now let us to cover."</p> + +<p>Leaving the highway, the Americans turned +sharply to the left and dashed for the shelter of +a piece of woodland something like a half a mile +away. Pell-mell they went over rocks and shrubs, +regardless of themselves or their horses, and succeeded +in reaching the friendly cover just about +three minutes before the cavalry came into sight +over the hill.</p> + +<p>"We're all right now," said Mr. Black, "if the +troopers will stick to the road, but if they should +take it into their heads to scatter, we might have +trouble."</p> + +<p>With eager eyes the boys watched the oncoming +horsemen, prepared to flee for their lives if they +should be discovered, as they realized how useless +would be any resistance.</p> + +<p>Nearer and nearer they came until the leaders +were at the very spot they had just left, and then +with a rush they passed by, turning neither to the +right nor to the left.</p> + +<p>Every one in the party heaved a deep sigh of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119" href="#Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span> +relief.</p> + +<p>"It's a wonder some of them didn't stop," said +Billie.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I don't know," laughed Adrian. "Look +yonder," and he pointed to the brow of the hill, +where another, but much smaller body of horsemen +had appeared. "They evidently didn't intend to +have their mission interfered with by fighting a rear-guard +skirmish."</p> + +<p>"I think the best thing we can do," said Mr. +Black, "is to surrender ourselves to the pursuers. +They are evidently Carranzistas and our passes will +protect us."</p> + +<p>Breaking off a piece of bamboo, Mr. Black tied a +handkerchief to it and raising it above his head the +little party rode out of the woods. They were +sighted at once and a party of horsemen dashed toward +them, and surrounded them.</p> + +<p>It was as they had expected and Gen. Dorantes' +passes were immediately recognized by the officer in +command. He was much pleased at the information +given him concerning the corporal and thanked the +boys in the name of Gen. Carranza for their good +offices. He furthermore detached an escort of a +dozen men to see that they reached Moreno in safety +and commended them to the care of the jefe politico, +with the verbal instruction that the boys be allowed +to proceed on their way to Vera Cruz at their will.</p> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<div><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120" href="#Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span></div> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV.</h2> + +<h3>APRIL TWENTY-ONE.</h3> + + +<p>"Boys," said Mr. Black the following morning +as they were preparing to pay a visit to the jefe +politico, "I want you to do me a favor."</p> + +<p>The boys looked at him in surprise.</p> + +<p>"Well, what is it?" asked Donald, when Mr. +Black did not immediately continue.</p> + +<p>"I want you to accept, as a mark of my appreciation +of your bravery and good services, the horses +upon which you are mounted and the accoutrements."</p> + +<p>The look of surprise on the faces of the boys +deepened.</p> + +<p>"I am sure, sir," replied Donald, speaking for the +others, "we should be pleased to accept them if we +were expecting to remain in the country. We hope, +however, to leave Vera Cruz in a very few days."</p> + +<p>"Boys," and Mr. Black's face was most serious, +"there is no knowing when you will reach Vera +Cruz; much less leave it."</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?" from Billie.</p> + +<p>"I had a long talk with my friend, Don Ramon, +last night after you were in bed and he tells me that +the railroad between here and Vera Cruz is in the +hands of Gen. Maas, the other side of Guayabo, and +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121" href="#Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span> +there is almost no chance of your being allowed to +pass through the lines."</p> + +<p>"Why not?" from Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Well, you see, since we have heard anything, +relations between the two countries have become +more and more strained and the United States has +practically declared a blockade on Vera Cruz. The +entire Atlantic fleet is assembled outside and there +is liable to be a clash at any time."</p> + +<p>"Then we'll accept the horses, Mr. Black," spoke +up Donald, "and we'll ride to Vera Cruz. It can't +be more than fifty miles."</p> + +<p>"Forty-six by rail," said Mr. Black. "I kind of +thought you might like to try and make it, is why I +want to give you the horses," and the speaker smiled +knowingly.</p> + +<p>"The sooner we start the better, I expect," said +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Yes; after you pay your respects to the mayor."</p> + +<p>The foregoing conversation explains how it happened +that on the morning of April 21, 1914, the +Broncho Rider Boys looked down from a little hill, +the top of which was covered by tropical foliage, +upon the harbor of Vera Cruz, with the American +fleet in the offing.</p> + +<p>By a circuitous route and by two nights of riding, +hiding in the day, the boys had reached this spot +about an hour after sunrise.</p> + +<p>"Whew!" was Billie's exclamation as he looked +out across the harbor at the men-of-war flying the +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122" href="#Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span> +American flag. "There's a bunch of them, isn't +there?"</p> + +<p>"Sure is," from Adrian, "and they look peaceable, +too."</p> + +<p>"You never can tell by the looks of a toad how +far it will jump," laughed Donald. "But peaceable +or warlike, I'd like mighty well to be on board one +of them."</p> + +<p>"Here, too," from Billie. "I wonder how we're +going to make it."</p> + +<p>"How would it do for one of us to try and get +into town and find the American consul?" queried +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Fine," from Donald, "if he succeeded; but bad +if he did not."</p> + +<p>"Then what had we better do?"</p> + +<p>"Give it up. Suppose we wait here a while and +something may turn up."</p> + +<p>"I'd like to know what can turn up?" asked +Billie.</p> + +<p>"I don't know; but I was thinking that one of +the ships might happen to send a boat ashore for +something. If we saw it coming, we could ride +quickly into town."</p> + +<p>Adrian laughed. "I reckon it would be just as +hard to get through the Mexican lines then as now. +No! I'm going out to reconnoiter."</p> + +<p>It was an hour later when he returned.</p> + +<p>"I've found a way," he said as he threw himself +on the ground and fanned himself vigorously with +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123" href="#Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> +his hat. "It's down by the water works. There +are several Americans down there."</p> + +<p>"Good," said Billie. "Let's go. I'm getting +mighty hungry."</p> + +<p>"Now don't be in a rush," cautioned Adrian. +"There's a picket between here and there. We'll +have to ride easy. You put the saddles on the +horses. I'm pretty well tired. I want to tell you +it's hot."</p> + +<p>Billie was busy with the horses when Don suddenly +pointed out toward the American men-of-war.</p> + +<p>"Look!" he exclaimed. "There's something doing."</p> + +<p>And sure enough there was.</p> + +<p>Out from behind two of the largest vessels there +suddenly darted a number of launches loaded with +blue-jackets and marines.</p> + +<p>In another instant they had headed for the shore, +while out behind them trailed the American flag.</p> + +<p>The boys sprang to their feet and watched the +approaching boats with the utmost interest.</p> + +<p>"There must be a thousand of them!" exclaimed +Billie.</p> + +<p>"More than that," said Donald, as his eyes ran +over the oncoming boats. "There's nearer fifteen +hundred."</p> + +<p>"And look there," cried Adrian. "See those two +smaller ships moving in toward shore."</p> + +<p>"What do you suppose they are going to do?" +asked Billie, all in a tremor of excitement.</p> + +<p>"Looks to me," replied Donald, "like they were<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124" href="#Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span> +going to capture the town."</p> + +<p>"Why, that's war!" from Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Well, isn't that what we've been expecting? I +wish I knew what it all means."</p> + +<p>As some of the readers may not know what was +the cause of the action it may be explained that a +German steamship had arrived the night before +loaded with arms for Huerta's army. Admiral +Fletcher had no right to seize the German ship, so +he determined to seize the port of Vera Cruz. Then +if the arms were landed they would be in the hands +of the Americans.</p> + +<p>"Well," declared Adrian, "whatever else it means, +it means business."</p> + +<p>"Do you suppose the Mexicans will try to prevent +the landing?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"We'll know in a minute, for they are most +ashore," said Donald.</p> + +<p>Donald was right and in another minute a shot +rang out followed by a rattle of musketry.</p> + +<p>"Flash! Flash! Bang! Bang!" spoke the howitzers +in the foremost of the launches.</p> + +<p>Boom! Boom! Boom! came the sound of three +guns from the ship nearest the city, which proved +to be the <i>Prairie</i>.</p> + +<p>The crash of the six-inch shells as they struck in +the city could be heard above the rattle of the rifle +fire which had now become continuous.</p> + +<p>"It's a sure enough battle," cried Billie. "Come +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125" href="#Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span> +on! Let's go down!" and he flung himself onto his +horse.</p> + +<p>"What would you do?" cried Donald, seizing +Billie's horse by the bridle. "You'd be killed by the +fire from our own guns. This is the best place we +could be in while the firing is going on. As soon as +our men have driven the Mexicans out of town, +then we can go in."</p> + +<p>"But I want to take a hand in the fun," said +Billie.</p> + +<p>"It's no fun, as you'll find after it's all over. No +knowing how many of our boys are being lost, to +say nothing of the Mexicans."</p> + +<p>"Look!" cried Adrian, who had not taken his +eyes from the scene in the harbor. "There are a +couple of other ships going into action."</p> + +<p>Billie turned at sound of Adrian's words. Sure +enough, there came flashes from more guns, as the +<i>Chester</i> and <i>San Francisco</i> moved up into striking +distance, although at that time the boys did not +know the vessels' names.</p> + +<p>"What show will the Mexicans have against those +guns!" exclaimed Donald. "They'll be driven out +of town in short order."</p> + +<p>Once more Donald was right and after some minutes +of firing, the boys realized that the rifle fire +was becoming less.</p> + +<p>"If they retreat, which way do you suppose they +will go?" queried Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I was just thinking about that," was Donald's<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126" href="#Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span> +reply. "What do you think, Billie?"</p> + +<p>"I should think along the main line of railroad."</p> + +<p>"And I imagine they'll retreat in every direction," +said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"In which case," advised Donald, "we'd better +be prepared to make a dash through."</p> + +<p>"Look here," from Billie. "Can't you see that +the shots are all aimed at one particular place? I'm +sure if we come around by the south, we can get in +behind our men some way. It's a good deal better +chance than to stay here to be shot down by the +retreating Mexicans."</p> + +<p>The others were forced to admit the wisdom of +Billie's advice and they proceeded to follow it.</p> + +<p>Mounting their horses, they rapidly retraced their +steps for a couple of hundred yards and then headed +for the harbor.</p> + +<p>They had not gone more than half a mile when +they caught a glimpse of foot soldiers forming in +line on what appeared to be a parade ground.</p> + +<p>"This is no place for us," exclaimed Donald. +"Back to the woods."</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid it's too late," from Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I hate to run for it," was Billie's comment, "but +it's the best we can do. I have no mind to fall into +Mexican hands right now."</p> + +<p>He put spurs to his horse and dashed through a +little clump of trees which grew by the way, closely +followed by the other two.</p> + +<p>They seemed to have done just the right thing and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127" href="#Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span> +were congratulating themselves upon their lucky +escape, when they heard horses coming from the +other way.</p> + +<p>Billie drew his horse up with a sudden turn.</p> + +<p>"It looks as though we'd have to fight for it, +boys! If we do let's give a good account of ourselves."</p> + +<p>They drew their Winchesters for instant use.</p> + +<p>The sound of hoofbeats drew nearer and then +there burst into sight from around a turn in the +road a sight which caused the boys nearly to fall +from their horses with laughter.</p> + +<p>Riding on a mule and followed by several peons +on burros was the florid-faced gentleman whom they +had met on the train the day they left the City of +Mexico. He was bare-headed and his coat tails +streamed out in the breeze. He had no saddle and +was clinging onto the mule by grasping him around +the neck.</p> + +<p>"Help! Help!" he cried as he caught sight of the +boys. "I surrender. I surrender."</p> + +<p>Seeing the boys' horses directly in his path, the +mule came to a sudden stop, with both feet stuck +out before him. The result was that the florid-faced +gentleman, who wished to head a company of marines +to drive the Mexicans off the earth, shot forward +over the mule's head and landed in a cactus +bush.</p> + +<p>Now a cactus is not a pleasant thing to sit upon, +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128" href="#Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span> +even when the greatest care is used; but to be shot +into it as from a catapult is more than any one +can bear.</p> + +<p>With a yell that might have been heard half a +mile, had it not been for the noise of the guns, the +man scrambled to his feet and darted away down +the hill, while the peons stopped at the unexpected +sight of the boys.</p> + +<p>"Americanos!" they cried, and, tumbling off their +burros, fell on their knees in abject terror, as though +expecting that their end had come.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV.</h2> + +<h3>THE INSULT AVENGED.</h3> + + +<p>Perceiving that the advantage was on their side, +the boys did not hesitate to profit by it.</p> + +<p>"Do as we bid," ordered Donald sternly, "and +your lives will be saved. Disobey and we will not +answer for the consequences."</p> + +<p>The kneeling peons uttered never a word, but +raised their eyes with a look of surprise.</p> + +<p>"Get up," was the next command.</p> + +<p>The peons obeyed.</p> + +<p>"Now conduct us to the water front by a route +where there are no Mexican soldiers."</p> + +<p>"Do you think you can trust them?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"At any sign of treachery, our first shot will be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129" href="#Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> +for them." Then to the peons: "Now march."</p> + +<p>Without a word the peons, five in number, started +back over the route by which they had come but +a minute before.</p> + +<p>"Where did the other American come from?" +asked Billie of the peon nearest him as they rode +along.</p> + +<p>"Quien sabe, señor," was the hesitating response. +"We saw him riding by and we followed him."</p> + +<p>"That's the way with loud talkers," remarked +Adrian. "When the test comes they usually +weaken."</p> + +<p>The firing, which had somewhat subsided for a +few minutes, suddenly began again with renewed +vigor, especially on the part of the ships.</p> + +<p>"Our boys are getting ready for another advance," +said Billie, and his manner became greatly +excited. "Let's get there in time to take part."</p> + +<p>"I'm willing," declared Adrian. "Come on!"</p> + +<p>The two boys dug their spurs into their horses +and dashed forward, upsetting a couple of the peons +in their flight.</p> + +<p>"Hold on!" called out Donald. "You'll get into +trouble."</p> + +<p>Billie and Adrian paid no attention to his cry, +whereupon he also put spurs to his horse, leaving +the peons gaping with astonishment in the middle +of the road.</p> + +<p>And now the boys came into sight of the water +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130" href="#Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span> +front where the fighting was going on. It was at +the instant that the order had been given to clear +the space around the custom house, and the boys +saw the marines advance on the double quick.</p> + +<p>The Mexicans gave way, but volley after volley +was poured down upon the advancing Americans +from the roofs of houses and from nearby +church towers.</p> + +<p>There were several shots in rapid succession from +the <i>Chester</i>, which had drawn in more closely, every +one of which struck a tower where a large force +of Mexicans had gathered.</p> + +<p>The tower toppled and fell, carrying many with +it.</p> + +<p>"Hurrah!" cried Billie. "Give it to them!" and, +firing his rifle as he went, he rode right down into +the main street.</p> + +<p>"He'll be killed by our own men!" cried Donald.</p> + +<p>But he was not. Instead he dashed into the open +space in front of the custom house, just as the +marines swept by, his hat off and his rifle cracking +as fast as he could fire.</p> + +<p>Seeing that the danger from the marines was +past, Donald and Adrian fell in behind Billie, just +as an officer came around the corner at the head +of another company.</p> + +<p>Espying the boys, he halted his command.</p> + +<p>"What are you doing here?" he demanded.</p> + +<p>"We just came to town," replied Billie, "and +we're trying to help avenge the insult to the flag."</p> + +<p>"Good!" was the emphatic reply. "Fall in behind<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131" href="#Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span> +us. You may be of service."</p> + +<p>The boys obeyed and followed the company as +it swept up the street. Presently they came to +a barricade, behind which the marines had taken +a stand. The boys expected the command to halt, +but instead they passed the barricade and pushed +onward toward the outskirts of the city.</p> + +<p>All the time there was a continuous fire upon +them by men secreted on the roofs of houses.</p> + +<p>"I'd clean out those snipers if I were in command," +said Donald to his companions.</p> + +<p>The words were hardly out of his mouth ere another +company of marines made its appearance and +the men dashed into the houses on either side of +the street.</p> + +<p>"Somebody has the same idea, Don," was Billie's +comment as they rode along.</p> + +<p>Two blocks farther came the order to halt and +entrench. A minute later the officer called the boys +toward him.</p> + +<p>"Would you rather lend us your horses, or act +as orderlies?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"If it's all the same to you," was the reply, "we'll +serve as orderlies."</p> + +<p>"Very well. Will you," turning to Adrian, "go +back to the custom house and tell Captain Rush +that we have reached our position. You," to Billie, +"ride with all speed to the landing and say that the +enemy has retreated toward the water works. They +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132" href="#Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span> +should not be allowed to stop long enough to do +any damage."</p> + +<p>The two boys were off like the wind to carry the +orders.</p> + +<p>"Anything for me?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"Not for the present. Better dismount and get +behind something."</p> + +<p>Two minutes later Adrian pulled up in front of +the Custom House and delivered his message, while +Billie kept on to the water's edge.</p> + +<p>"Do you know where the water works are?" +asked the officer to whom Billie gave his order.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir!"</p> + +<p>"Then lead us to it."</p> + +<p>Without a word Billie obeyed and the Jackies +followed on the run.</p> + +<p>The information was evidently received none too +soon, for they encountered quite a force of Mexicans, +guarding the works.</p> + +<p>A volley from the bluejackets was returned by +a scattering fire and the Mexicans turned and fled.</p> + +<p>But the volley had been sufficient to lose Billie +his mount, as his horse came to his knees with a +bullet in his shoulder.</p> + +<p>Without waiting to see the cause of Billie's fall +any more than to ask if he was hit, the Jackies +pushed on toward the water works, leaving Billie +to look out for himself as best he could until the +work in hand was completed.</p> + +<p>"This is sure enough tough luck," was Billie's +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133" href="#Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span> +comment as he helped the horse to his feet and +examined the wound. "It will lay him up for a +week."</p> + +<p>He took the horse by the bridle and led him +slowly back toward the Custom House, where he +reported to an officer and hunted up Adrian.</p> + +<p>"What had we better do now?" he asked. "I'd +like to find a place to tend to my horse."</p> + +<p>"The fighting seems about over," was Adrian's +reply, "and I reckon the horse will be given attention +by some one."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I don't want to make any trouble, Ad! If +nobody objects, suppose we go hunt a stable."</p> + +<p>They were about to leave when a sergeant +stopped them.</p> + +<p>"You're to follow me to the Captain," he said. +"Here," to a marine who stood by, "take charge +of these horses and see that the lame one is cared +for."</p> + +<p>"I wonder if they will take our horses away from +us?" muttered Adrian as they followed the sergeant.</p> + +<p>"Give it up. I wonder what he wants of us?"</p> + +<p>It did not take them long to find out.</p> + +<p>"Are you the boys that brought the messages +from Lieutenant Blunt?" asked Captain Rush.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Will you undertake another mission?"</p> + +<p>"With pleasure," replied Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Same here, sir," from Billie, "but my horse has +been wounded."</p> + +<p>"That's bad. However, I guess we can find another."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134" href="#Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span></p> + +<p>"Sure, sir. I can borrow Don's."</p> + +<p>"Who is Don?"</p> + +<p>"He's the other one of us, sir. He is still out +with Lieutenant Blunt."</p> + +<p>"Well," said the Captain, "either two of you +will do. What I want is to find out to just what +point the Mexican army is falling back. Do you +think you can find out?"</p> + +<p>"Sure."</p> + +<p>"Very well. My compliments to Lieutenant Blunt +and give him this order. He will pass two of you +through the lines. The other can remain with him. +Sergeant, their horses."</p> + +<p>Five minutes later, both astride Adrian's horse +and leading the other, they appeared at the outpost +and delivered the order.</p> + +<p>"Which two shall it be?" laughed the lieutenant +as he looked the boys over.</p> + +<p>"I guess it will have to be Adrian and Don," replied +Billie ruefully. "I've had glory enough for +one day. The insult to the flag has been avenged +and the Stars and Stripes are floating over Vera +Cruz."</p> + +<p>"I think it's only fair that Don, as you call him, +should share in the adventure," said the lieutenant, +"and the sooner you go the better. It is almost +sundown now."</p> + +<p>Then as Donald and Adrian started on their mission:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135" href="#Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span></p> + +<p>"Success to you and report here when you +return."</p> + +<p>"Is there any place near here where I can care +for my horse?" asked Billie as soon as the others +had passed out of sight.</p> + +<p>"Why, yes. There are stables in almost any of +these houses. Here, try this one," and the lieutenant +indicated the one before which they were +standing.</p> + +<p>Billie knocked on the big door, but there was +no reply.</p> + +<p>"Knock louder," laughed the lieutenant. "Use +your boot."</p> + +<p>Billie used his foot and with such vigor that +the gate flew open.</p> + +<p>When no one appeared to answer his summons, +he stuck his head inside the patio and called lustily.</p> + +<p>"Must be deserted," he finally remarked. "Such +being the case, lieutenant, I reckon I might as well +take possession."</p> + +<p>"Sure. Go ahead. If every one has gone, I +may join you later."</p> + +<p>Billie led his horse within and looked around. +It was a large house and the patio was the most +elaborate Billie had ever seen. He had thought that +Pedro's home in Mexico City was fine, but this was +much finer.</p> + +<p>"They must be swells," was the lad's comment. +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136" href="#Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span> +"I reckon they became frightened and have run +away with General Maas."</p> + +<p>He started to lead the horse to the stable and +then stopped.</p> + +<p>"I might as well shut this big gate," he thought. +"I'll leave the little gate open so the lieutenant can +come in."</p> + +<p>He pushed the big gate together and dropped the +bolt in its place.</p> + +<p>"Now to do something for the horse," and he +turned to the animal which stood patiently by.</p> + +<p>Then he stopped and stood in mute astonishment +at what his eyes beheld.</p> + +<p>In the center of the patio, with rifle in hand, +aimed squarely at his head, stood a figure he had +last seen on the banks of the Rio Grande more than +a year before—the figure of a man whom he had +known only as Santiago.</p> + +<p>The recognition was mutual, but instead of the +friendliness which had always before marked the +attitude of the strange man, there was now upon his +face a look of the most bitter hatred.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI.</h2> + +<h3>SHADOWING AN ARMY.</h3> + + +<p>When Donald and Adrian left the city they rode +slowly along for some distance without any sign +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137" href="#Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span> +of the retreating Mexicans, except the occasional +sight of some camp utensil which had been thrown +aside as too heavy to carry. Occasionally they met +peons or women, who looked at them curiously, but +all of whom were more than willing to tell of the +army that had so recently passed.</p> + +<p>"How many men do you suppose General Maas +has?" queried Adrian.</p> + +<p>"The lieutenant said it was supposed he had about +seven thousand. It may be more, and it may be +less."</p> + +<p>"Well, they're certainly light-footed," laughed +Adrian. "Don't you think we ought to get closer?"</p> + +<p>"If we can without being seen."</p> + +<p>They put spurs to their horses and for a mile +or more galloped along at a fair speed.</p> + +<p>Then from a little eminence they saw the rear +guard of the retreating army.</p> + +<p>"This is near enough," cautioned Donald.</p> + +<p>They halted and watched the marching men.</p> + +<p>"How far would you say we are from town, +Don?"</p> + +<p>"At least seven or eight miles."</p> + +<p>"Do you know what towns are in this direction?"</p> + +<p>"Not the slightest idea. That's the next thing +we must find out."</p> + +<p>The enemy having by this time passed out of +sight, they again spurred forward, but holding their +distance.</p> + +<p>Darkness had now fallen and the boys were<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138" href="#Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span> +obliged to pick their way more carefully.</p> + +<p>For half an hour they rode silently and then +Donald spoke:</p> + +<p>"They certainly will not march all night. They +must have some place in mind."</p> + +<p>"So I think," from Adrian. "But there seems +no sign of a halt."</p> + +<p>Ten minutes later, however, they caught sight +of a fire light.</p> + +<p>"That looks like it might be a camp," suggested +Adrian.</p> + +<p>They rode cautiously forward.</p> + +<p>"It surely is," affirmed Donald a couple of minutes +later. "We'd better dismount and do a little +reconnoitering on foot."</p> + +<p>The suggestion was immediately put into effect.</p> + +<p>Leaving their horses tethered beneath a giant +palm, which would serve as a landmark, the boys +crept stealthily forward. In a few minutes they +were near enough to see figures about the fire.</p> + +<p>"They are evidently getting ready to pass the +night," said Donald.</p> + +<p>"Yes," from Adrian, "and there is another fire +off yonder," and he pointed to the right.</p> + +<p>"They are getting ready to post their pickets," +explained Donald.</p> + +<p>"Then we'd better get busy, Don. There must +be some way of finding out where the army is going +to stop."</p> + +<p>As with one accord they drew still nearer the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139" href="#Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span> +camp, they could smell the coffee and their appetites +began to assert themselves.</p> + +<p>"Wish I had some," whispered Adrian.</p> + +<p>"You'll get to be as bad as Billie first thing you +know," was the retort. "But, hush! There comes +some one."</p> + +<p>They lay flat on the ground and listened.</p> + +<p>Whoever it might be was coming directly toward +them.</p> + +<p>Not a move did the boys make, hoping that they +might not be discovered, but ready to act if they +were.</p> + +<p>When within ten feet of them the footsteps halted +and they heard a voice say:</p> + +<p>"This will be far enough. You are the end man +on the line."</p> + +<p>"Bueno, caporal!"</p> + +<p>"Keep a close watch," cautioned the corporal. +"You never know what these Americans may do."</p> + +<p>"Si, Señor. How far are we from Vera Cruz?"</p> + +<p>"About four leagues" (twelve miles). "General +Maas will make a stand at Tejeria, about a league +further on."</p> + +<p>Then as he moved away. "Remember now, no +sleeping. This is a real war."</p> + +<p>"Bueno, mi caporal. I understand."</p> + +<p>The corporal departed and the sentry, shouldering +his rifle, began pacing his station.</p> + +<p>A minute later Donald gave Adrian a dig with +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140" href="#Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span> +his elbow as a signal, and they slowly crawled +away.</p> + +<p>"That's the information we are after," whispered +Donald when they were out of earshot. "Now to +get back to Vera Cruz as quickly as possible."</p> + +<p>They rose to their feet and ran swiftly but silently +toward the palm tree, where their horses were +tethered.</p> + +<p>Suddenly Adrian stopped and grabbed Donald by +the arm.</p> + +<p>"What is it, Ad?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"Can't you see! There is some one there with +the horses."</p> + +<p>They both peered through the darkness and Donald +quickly perceived that Adrian was right.</p> + +<p>Then as by one impulse they drew a few steps +nearer.</p> + +<p>In the dim starlight they were able to make out +the figures of several men.</p> + +<p>"Do you think they are soldiers?" whispered Don.</p> + +<p>Adrian shook his head.</p> + +<p>"Camp followers. Thieves," he whispered.</p> + +<p>Donald nodded his head in acquiescence.</p> + +<p>The boys lay down upon the ground and put +their heads together.</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't be any trick at all," whispered Donald, +"if it were not for the pickets. But any noise +will bring down upon us a couple of hundred men. +Maybe more. We have simply got to dispose of +that outfit without noise. But how?"</p> + +<p>"Bad job," was Adrian's only reply.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141" href="#Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span></p> + +<p>"If the horses were only our Wyoming cow +ponies, they'd come at our call."</p> + +<p>"But they're not," replied Adrian.</p> + +<p>For several minutes neither spoke, but lay silently +watching the movements of the men about +the horses.</p> + +<p>"How many can you make out, Ad?"</p> + +<p>"Five."</p> + +<p>"I don't see but four."</p> + +<p>Adrian pointed to the left, about ten or twelve +feet, to one who stood alone.</p> + +<p>"What's he doing there?"</p> + +<p>"Give it up." Then a moment later: "I have +it!"</p> + +<p>"Well, what is it?"</p> + +<p>"He's watching for us to return. That's what +they're all waiting for. They think we'll be a great +catch."</p> + +<p>"That's just it," from Donald. "Let's fool +them!"</p> + +<p>"Well, first, let's capture the one yonder. We'll +show them a Wyoming Indian trick."</p> + +<p>Slowly and silently the boys wiggled their way +to where the lone robber stood. Then as silently as +a ghost Donald arose, while Adrian bent on his +knees.</p> + +<p>There was a swift movement and Donald's arm +was around the Mexican's neck, shutting off his +wind, while Adrian pulled his feet from beneath +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142" href="#Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span> +him. In another minute he was bound by his own +sash and gagged with a handful of grass.</p> + +<p>"That's one!" exclaimed Donald, as he sat upon +his prisoner's chest. "Now, how about the others?"</p> + +<p>"Not so easy, Don."</p> + +<p>"But it has to be done," declared Donald. +"Scratch your head."</p> + +<p>Adrian did so, but to no avail.</p> + +<p>Time was passing and they did not know how +long ere something would turn up, when Donald +gave Adrian a kick.</p> + +<p>"Look! They're getting uneasy."</p> + +<p>This was undoubtedly true, as the men were moving +about and one of them even had the temerity +to light a cigarette.</p> + +<p>Then of a sudden Adrian spoke.</p> + +<p>"I've got it!" he exclaimed under his breath. +"Help drag this chap farther away."</p> + +<p>They picked him up bodily and carried him fifteen +or twenty feet.</p> + +<p>"Now, listen," said Adrian, "both of you. You, +Don, sneak as near the horses as you dare. I'll +give you just five minutes by my watch. Then I +am going to give this man one chance for his life. +I am going to take the gag from his mouth and +let him give one call for help. If he makes another +sound, it will be his last."</p> + +<p>"Then what?"</p> + +<p>"Those fellows have waited so long that they are +tired. They will all rush to where they expect to +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143" href="#Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span> +find him. Then you will rush in and cut the tethers. +By the time they find this man I will be with you. +Sabe?"</p> + +<p>"Good!" from Donald. "I'm off."</p> + +<p>In exactly five minutes by his watch Adrian gave +the prisoner a rough shake.</p> + +<p>"You know what I said?"</p> + +<p>The man nodded his head.</p> + +<p>"Well, I am now going to take out your gag. +If you make more than one cry, or utter more than +one word, your own knife will finish you."</p> + +<p>He held the knife before the man's eyes. Then +with the knife in one hand, Adrian pulled the wad +of grass from between the prisoner's teeth.</p> + +<p>No sooner had the man drawn one long breath +than he let out a yell that might have been heard +half a mile and which he was about to repeat with +variations, when with a swift movement, Adrian +forced the grass back into his mouth and the yell +died in a dismal gurgle.</p> + +<p>"I ought to use the knife," said Adrian, "but I +guess this will do."</p> + +<p>With a bound he sprang to his feet and dashed +to where Donald was already performing his part +of the work.</p> + +<p>The plan had worked exactly as Adrian had figured, +and in another moment the boys were astride +the horses and away toward Vera Cruz.</p> + +<p>But one thing they had not taken into consideration. +That single yell of their erstwhile prisoner +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144" href="#Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span> +had aroused the Mexican pickets and from half +a dozen directions came the sound of rifle shots and +then the sound of a bugle calling to arms.</p> + +<p>Even while Adrian was running toward the +horses, the excitement had begun, and as the boys +started on their homeward ride, a volley from the +encamped forces sent the bullets whistling by their +ears.</p> + +<p>"This is no place for us!" cried Donald. "Don't +be afraid to use the spur. It is our only chance."</p> + +<p>And now as they rode furiously forward, came +the sound of firing on their left and some distance +ahead.</p> + +<p>"What does it mean?" called out Adrian as they +rode neck and neck through the darkness.</p> + +<p>"Search me, Ad; but our only chance is in our +horses," and Donald again plied the spur.</p> + +<p>Outlined against the sky at the top of a small +knoll, they could see a small body of horsemen.</p> + +<p>"Keep away to the right," said Donald. "Keep +in the valley and in the shadow," and he drew off +the beaten highway, with Adrian close behind.</p> + +<p>On the soft earth their horses' hoofs made no +sound and in a couple of minutes more they descended +into a little valley and the noise of the alarm +passed out of hearing.</p> + +<p>"It was a mighty close shave," declared Adrian +a few minutes later, when they pulled their horses +down to a walk to allow them to catch their breath.</p> + +<p>"Sure was," from Donald, "but we got the information<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145" href="#Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span> +we went after."</p> + +<p>Half an hour later they were challenged by the +American pickets, which had been thrown even +further forward than where the boys had passed +through the lines. They stated their mission and +were at once sent under guard to the officer of +the day.</p> + +<p>"Oh, it's you!" was the lieutenant's salutation as +he saw who it was. "Did you get what you went +after?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," from Donald. "The enemy has halted +at Tejeria, fifteen miles away."</p> + +<p>"Well done. I'll send an orderly to carry the +report to headquarters. You boys are entitled to +a rest."</p> + +<p>"Where's Billie?" asked Adrian, looking around +after the orderly had departed.</p> + +<p>"Who?"</p> + +<p>"Billie. Our chum."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes," replied the lieutenant. "He's disappeared."</p> + +<p>"Disappeared?"</p> + +<p>"Yes. He went into this house here," pointing +to the building before which he had stationed himself, +"and when I went in later to see how he was +coming on with his wounded horse, I found the +horse standing in the middle of the patio, but your +chum had disappeared."</p> + +<p>"And then what?" queried Donald.</p> + +<p>"Nothing. I made up my mind he had gone<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146" href="#Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span> +after something to put on his horse and I haven't +thought much about him since."</p> + +<p>"Then it's up to us to find him. Can we go inside?"</p> + +<p>"Sure," laughed the lieutenant. "Go as far as +you like, only keep inside the lines."</p> + +<p>Without more words the boys entered the patio.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII.</h2> + +<h3>BILLIE GETS A SURPRISE.</h3> + + +<p>When Billie found himself looking into the +muzzle of a rifle in the hands of Santiago, his first +impulse was to call out; but the expression on Santiago's +face caused him to remain silent.</p> + +<p>While the strange man owed his life to the lad, +as is related in the story of the "Broncho Rider +Boys with the Texas Rangers," there was that in +the man's face which told that he was under a +severe mental strain, and Billie did not think it wise +to presume upon his former friendship.</p> + +<p>Therefore, he remained quiet, waiting for Santiago +to speak.</p> + +<p>If he recognized Billie, he gave no intimation of +the fact; but in a harsh voice commanded: "Up +with your hands!"</p> + +<p>Billie obeyed.</p> + +<p>"Turn to the left and march. In there," he continued<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147" href="#Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span> +a moment later as Billie approached an open +door in the rear of the patio.</p> + +<p>Into the house Billie went—into a large room, +but dimly lighted. Santiago followed, closing the +door behind him with a kick.</p> + +<p>"Why shouldn't I shoot you down like a dog?" +asked Santiago as soon as the door was closed.</p> + +<p>"I can't see any reason," was the reply, "except +that it might cause you a lot of trouble when it +was found out. I imagine that Admiral Fletcher +is going to be pretty severe upon snipers and others +who shoot Americans."</p> + +<p>"Bah!" exclaimed Santiago angrily. "I spit upon +Americans! Bah!"</p> + +<p>"That's all right," Billie agreed, "if it's the way +you feel about it."</p> + +<p>"Just because you Americans have driven away +a few soldiers with the guns of your great fleet, you +don't think you can conquer Mexico, do you?"</p> + +<p>"I hadn't thought much about it."</p> + +<p>"Then it's time you did, as you may never have +another chance."</p> + +<p>"Well, then," explained Billie, "I'll tell you how +it looks to me. You might a great deal better be +governed by the United States than by a man like +Huerta."</p> + +<p>"Huerta! Huerta!" fairly screamed Santiago. +"He is not the governor of Mexico."</p> + +<p>"No," from Billie. "He calls himself the provisional<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148" href="#Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span> +president. In reality he is a dictator."</p> + +<p>"He is a murderer!" shouted the thoroughly excited +man.</p> + +<p>"Then what are you worrying about? All that +the Americans want is to get rid of Huerta. They +don't want Mexico. Didn't you know that, +Santiago?"</p> + +<p>"What? Who calls me Santiago? I am Ixtazhl, +Prince of the Aztecs and guardian of the treasures +of Montezuma. Who calls me Santiago?"</p> + +<p>In his excitement he rested the stock of his rifle +upon the floor and bent upon Billie a gaze so fierce +as greatly to disconcert him for the moment.</p> + +<p>But Billie was not a lad to be easily unnerved +and after a moment he replied calmly:</p> + +<p>"I call you by the only name I know. It was +the one you used on the Rio Grande when you sent +me on a mission to Pancho Villa."</p> + +<p>"Villa! Villa!" repeated Santiago, as though +trying to recall something that had passed from +his memory. "Villa! Where have I heard that +name before?"</p> + +<p>"On the Rio Grande is all I can tell you. Do +you remember Don Rafael?"</p> + +<p>At mention of the name the expression on Santiago's +face changed again, this time to one of fiercest +rage.</p> + +<p>"Don Rafael!" he cried. "Don Rafael! Now I +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149" href="#Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span> +know you! You are Don Rafael. That is why I +should kill you!"</p> + +<p>"Great Scott, no, I am not Don Rafael!" shouted +Billie as Santiago again raised his rifle and the +lad perceived that he had to do with a crazy man. +"I'm the boy that saved your life when Don Rafael +tried to kill you. Don't you remember?"</p> + +<p>Again Santiago lowered his weapon, and again +there came upon his face that puzzled expression.</p> + +<p>"Tell me, Santiago—I mean Prince Iztazil, or +whatever you call it, what are you doing here?"</p> + +<p>Santiago eyed him suspiciously, but finally laid his +rifle across a table in the center of the room and +approached nearer the lad.</p> + +<p>"Listen!" he said in a whisper. "I am the guardian +of the treasure of Montezuma. It is to be used +to free Mexico from the Spaniard. He must be +driven out. The land belongs to the Aztec."</p> + +<p>"But where is the Aztec?" queried Billie. "I +know him not."</p> + +<p>"I am he. The peons are my people. The Spaniard—bah! +He owns the houses and he owns the +lands; but he must be driven out."</p> + +<p>"Isn't that what Villa says?"</p> + +<p>"Villa? Villa?" again repeated Santiago, and +again he lapsed into silence.</p> + +<p>For some minutes he remained motionless ere +he stepped back, picked up his rifle and started for +a door leading to a stairway.</p> + +<p>"Come!" he commanded. "I will show you."</p> + +<p>"Hadn't we better take care of the horse first?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150" href="#Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> +asked Billie, not at all anxious to be wandering +around with an armed lunatic. "He may die."</p> + +<p>"What is a horse when the future of Mexico is +at stake, my son? Come with me and you shall +hear a strange tale."</p> + +<p>"I have heard one already," was Billie's mental +comment, but realizing by the term son which Santiago +had applied to him that he was in no immediate +danger and trusting to his wits to finally overcome +the strange man should it become necessary, +he followed.</p> + +<p>At the head of the stairs was another door, which +Santiago opened and entered. It was a sort of ante-room, +much like the entrance into a lodge room. +Around the walls was a motley collection of firearms, +swords, spears and smaller weapons.</p> + +<p>Stopping in front of one of the racks, Santiago +placed his rifle in it, and then from another took a +couple of small swords, one of which he handed +to Billie.</p> + +<p>"This is a bug house sure enough," muttered the +boy as he took the sword and examined it curiously. +"I wonder what next?"</p> + +<p>He had not long to wait, for opening a closet, +Santiago took therefrom two beautifully embroidered +robes, one of which he threw over his own +shoulders and the other of which he put on Billie.</p> + +<p>"It doesn't hardly match my hat," laughed Billie.</p> + +<p>Without a word, Santiago removed Billie's sombrero +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151" href="#Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span> +and hung it on a peg in the closet, which he +closed.</p> + +<p>Then he opened another door and led Billie into +a large, brilliantly lighted room, hung with the richest +tapestries.</p> + +<p>"Looks like we had strayed into some Turkish +bath house," thought Billie, "but I might as well +see the thing through."</p> + +<p>"Sit here beside me, my son," Santiago finally +said. "You shall become my heir. I will introduce +you to the court."</p> + +<p>Santiago clapped his hands, as though bidding +a servant to attend; but there was no response.</p> + +<p>He turned his head from one side to the other +as though in amazement and again clapped his +hands, this time with vigor.</p> + +<p>After a moment's delay, there was a movement +behind one of the draperies and presently the curtain +was drawn back and a man's face appeared.</p> + +<p>"Come hither," commanded Santiago.</p> + +<p>The man obeyed.</p> + +<p>"Where are the others?" demanded Santiago.</p> + +<p>"Oh, señor," cried the man, "the others have hidden +themselves in the cellar!"</p> + +<p>"Slaves! Cowards!" exclaimed Santiago. "What +do they fear?"</p> + +<p>"The great guns, señor. We might all be killed."</p> + +<p>"You will certainly be killed if you do not mind +what I say," was the reply as Santiago drew his +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152" href="#Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span> +sword. "Now summon the court that I may introduce +my son."</p> + +<p>The man bowed and left the room, and in a few +minutes returned accompanied by two more men +and several women, all arrayed in fantastic costumes.</p> + +<p>All bowed as they entered, and Santiago waved +his hand.</p> + +<p>"This is my son and heir," he said. "Come and +kiss his hand."</p> + +<p>They all came forward and kissed Billie's hand, +which he held out in order to facilitate the job.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Santiago, "we——"</p> + +<p>"Now," interrupted Billie, "if it is all the same +to you, Prince, we'll have supper. I haven't had +a mouthful to eat since daylight. I'm 'most starved +to death."</p> + +<p>"It is well," agreed Santiago. "It is well that +my heir should not die of hunger. Let the table +be placed."</p> + +<p>The order seemed to meet with general approval, +and in the course of half an hour there was spread +what would have proved a feast at any time, but +which was beyond description to a hungry boy; and +the way he waded into the food was a caution.</p> + +<p>During all this time Santiago had uttered never +a word, nor would he eat but the smallest portion +of food—a taste of every dish which he set before +his guest.</p> + +<p>"My son tells the truth," Santiago finally remarked +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153" href="#Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span> +as Billie pushed back his chair with the +single word "Bastante," meaning enough.</p> + +<p>"I always try to," was the smiling rejoinder, for +Billie was now in the very best humor. Eating was +his strong point and he had gone the limit.</p> + +<p>"Clear away the feast and then reassemble," was +Santiago's next order.</p> + +<p>This order was carried into effect, and the servants +also must have enjoyed a square meal, for it +was more than an hour ere they again assembled, +during which time Billie sank back in his chair and +slumbered peacefully.</p> + +<p>He was finally awakened by a hand laid upon his +arm.</p> + +<p>"Awake, my son," were the words he heard. "It +is now time that I reveal to you the secret of my +life. It is now time that I should tell you the +secret of the treasure of Montezuma."</p> + +<p>"That's right, Prince," said Billie sleepily. "Let +her go."</p> + +<p>Santiago regarded him interrogatively.</p> + +<p>"What said my son?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, Prince. I forgot you only understood +good English. Let her go, means proceed with the +secret."</p> + +<p>"Let her go. Let her go," Santiago repeated a +couple of times. "Yes," he continued, "I had forgotten +about her."</p> + +<p>He clapped his hands and the same servant who +had first appeared approached his chair.</p> + +<p>Santiago gave an order in a language which<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154" href="#Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span> +Billie did not understand, but which he imagined +was Indian, and the servant withdrew, only to reappear +a few minutes later with a young woman +who greatly resembled Santiago and who was also +arrayed in a gorgeous costume.</p> + +<p>She had evidently not expected to meet a +stranger, for she drew back upon seeing Billie and +the color rushed to her face.</p> + +<p>"Come hither, daughter," was Santiago's command.</p> + +<p>The young woman obeyed.</p> + +<p>"Lucia," said Santiago, "this is the honorable +young man whom I have chosen for my heir. +Henceforth consider him your betrothed. The marriage +shall take place one new moon from to-day."</p> + +<p>"Oh, Father," cried the girl, her face becoming +even more scarlet than before, "I cannot——"</p> + +<p>"No!" interrupted Billie, springing to his feet, +"neither can I. You ought to be ashamed of yourself, +Santiago——"</p> + +<p>"What!" cried Santiago, springing to his feet and +again drawing his sword. "Who calls me Santiago? +I am Prince Ixtazhl of the great Aztec nation +and guardian of the treasure of Montezuma!"</p> + +<p>He raised his sword and would have stricken +Billie down ere the boy could have prevented had +not the young woman thrown herself between them +and seized his arm.</p> + +<p>At the same instant the door from the ante-room<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155" href="#Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span> +opened and Donald and Adrian entered.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2> + +<h3>A MISSION FOR FUNSTON.</h3> + + +<p>"Santiago!" exclaimed Donald.</p> + +<p>"By all that's great!" from Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Help!" cried Lucia. "He will do something +desperate!"</p> + +<p>Donald and Adrian sprang forward, but their +assistance was not needed. Billie had by this time +gathered his wits and in a twinkling the mad-man +was disarmed.</p> + +<p>"Shall we bind him?" asked Adrian as they came +forward.</p> + +<p>"No, indeed," replied Billie as the now helpless +man sank down upon the chair. "He isn't dangerous."</p> + +<p>"What's it all about?" queried Donald.</p> + +<p>"Oh, nothing much! He simply wanted to make +me his heir and marry me to his daughter."</p> + +<p>Donald and Adrian cast an admiring gaze upon +Lucia, who was now kneeling at her father's side.</p> + +<p>"Well," said Adrian in an aside, "I don't see why +you should object to that."</p> + +<p>"Who said I objected?" demanded Billie. "It is +the young woman who objects."</p> + +<p>"But whoever supposed he had a daughter?" said<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156" href="#Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span> +Donald.</p> + +<p>"Not I," from Billie. "But this is certainly a +queer mess."</p> + +<p>Then to Lucia: "How long has he been in this +way, Señorita?"</p> + +<p>"Only a few days. Since this trouble with the +Americanos."</p> + +<p>"But how could that affect him?"</p> + +<p>"It is a long story, señor. For years he has been +trying to overthrow the government. When Madero +was made president, he was happy. Then came +that awful tragedy, by which Madero was killed. +Since that time he has not been himself. But when +it became evident that the United States would interfere +he became as you have seen him to-day."</p> + +<p>"When I told him that all the United States +wanted was to get rid of Huerta, he was much +pleased," explained Billie. "That was when he proposed +to make me his heir."</p> + +<p>Lucia's cheeks grew red, as she asked: "And did +you accept his proposal?"</p> + +<p>"I neither accepted nor rejected. I just followed +him in to see what would happen next."</p> + +<p>"But would you accept?" insisted Lucia.</p> + +<p>"That depends," replied Billie, with a touch of +color in his own face. "But what had we better +do now? You and I will discuss the other question +later."</p> + +<p>"The best thing we can do," interposed Donald, +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157" href="#Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span> +"is to report to Lieutenant Blunt. Isn't there some +place, Señorita, where your father can be placed for +safe-keeping?"</p> + +<p>"He will be perfectly safe here with me, señors, +if the servants are allowed to remain."</p> + +<p>"They certainly will be," declared Billie. "I will +personally vouch for that. We have done Captain +Rush a good turn to-day and I know he will be +glad to do that much for us. And besides, the +Americans will harm no one."</p> + +<p>Lucia gave Billie a grateful look as she replied:</p> + +<p>"Ah, señor, I shall trust it all to you. I can +see that you are a friend of my father and I know +you are telling the truth."</p> + +<p>"You bet you can trust me," was Billie's emphatic +reply. "Come on, fellows, let's go look after +my horse."</p> + +<p>In the door Billie turned:</p> + +<p>"I'll leave my robe in the cupboard, Señorita; +and, if you don't mind, I'll ask Lieutenant Blunt to +make himself at home in the patio."</p> + +<p>"The house is yours, señor. Do as you think +best."</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed Adrian as they descended +the stairs to the patio, "this is getting +serious."</p> + +<p>"What?" queried Donald.</p> + +<p>"Why this affair of Billie and the young lady +we have just left."</p> + +<p>"Nonsense!" from Billie. "It isn't half as serious<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158" href="#Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span> +as what I saw at Moreno."</p> + +<p>"No!" laughed Donald. "I saw that myself; but +Josie is an American. Hey, Ad?"</p> + +<p>"I don't think it's very nice to be making remarks +about young ladies in their absence," retorted +Adrian, bristling up.</p> + +<p>"Oh, come now, Adrian!" laughed Billie. "You +started it. But what do you make out of Santiago?"</p> + +<p>"He's evidently a rich old chap with a bug. +That's all."</p> + +<p>"Well," commented Billie, with a nod of his head, +"strange things do happen when you travel. +Who'd have thought we'd ever see the old chap +again, and at a time like this?" and he went back +to where Adrian and Donald had stabled the horses, +to see if there was anything he could do for the +wounded animal.</p> + +<p>When Lieutenant Blunt was made acquainted +with the conditions prevailing in the house, he immediately +took possession of the lower floor and +from that time on until the arrival of General +Funston with the Fifth Brigade, it was made one +of the official residences.</p> + +<p>The week following the occupation of Vera Cruz +by the American forces was a busy one for our +boys. Because of their intimate knowledge with +the Spanish language, they were continually in +demand. There was never a verbal message from +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159" href="#Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span> +the American Admiral to some Mexican official but +what they were called upon, and they very soon +made friends of every Jackie and marine in the +city.</p> + +<p>Ten days later the boys stood upon the wharf +awaiting the arrival of the first boatload of General +Funston's regulars from the big transports which +had anchored in the harbor the night before. Because +of the shallowness of the water, everything in +Vera Cruz harbor has to be brought ashore in +small boats, known as lighters. As the boys watched +the first of these to approach there was something +in the face and bearing of the officer in command +which attracted their attention.</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed Donald, "I seem to +know that face. Don't you, Billie?"</p> + +<p>"Does look kind o' familiar. Where have we +seen him?"</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you!" cried Adrian. "It's the lieutenant +who was in charge of the patrol on the Rio Grande."</p> + +<p>"Lieutenant Grant!" exclaimed Billie. "Sure as +you're born. Well this is luck!"</p> + +<p>"Luck? What do you mean?"</p> + +<p>"Why, maybe he'll be able to tell me whatever +became of those drafts for ten thousand pounds +that I took from old Don Pablo."</p> + +<p>His companions laughed.</p> + +<p>"Still thinking about that, are you?" said Donald. +"Why of course you'll never hear of them +again. The bank is simply in that much."</p> + +<p>"Maybe so," admitted Billie, "but I'll get something<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160" href="#Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span> +official."</p> + +<p>And he did.</p> + +<p>It was several days later, though, after the regulars +had taken possession of the city and the navy +forces had withdrawn to their ships. The boys +were sitting in Lieutenant Grant's quarters, to whom +they had offered their services as soon after his +landing as they were able, and were laughing over +their adventures on the border.</p> + +<p>"It was certainly a close call you boys had," the +lieutenant was saying. "I'm not sure but our neutrality +was mighty near a breaking point. What do +you think, Billie?"</p> + +<p>"Possibly so; Americans will be Americans. But +say, Lieutenant, whatever was done about those +drafts I took from Don Pablo? I've never been +called upon to tell my story, nor have they ever +come back to me."</p> + +<p>"That's because you were out of the United +States," replied Lieutenant Grant. "It was less than +a month ago that I was asked if I knew your whereabouts. +Uncle Sam has decided that he has no claim +to the drafts and they were returned to me. I +have them in my army chest. If they are any good +to you, I shall be pleased to hand them over."</p> + +<p>"I guess they are not much use to any one," +sighed Billie mournfully. "My father says no bank +would cash them without Don Pablo's signature, +and no one can get that."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad you take it so philosophically," laughed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161" href="#Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span> +the lieutenant. "I hope you'll have better luck next +time."</p> + +<p>The boys arose to leave.</p> + +<p>"Which way?" asked the lieutenant.</p> + +<p>"No place in particular. We thought we'd go +home."</p> + +<p>"You mean to the United States?"</p> + +<p>"Not to-night," laughed Adrian. "Just to the +house where we are living. It belongs to old Santiago."</p> + +<p>"Who is he?"</p> + +<p>Briefly the boys narrated what they knew about +him on the Rio Grande, how they had met him +here, and why they were staying at his house.</p> + +<p>"Has he no other name?"</p> + +<p>"Why, yes, I suppose so," replied Billie. "We +always call him Prince to his face, and his daughter +as the Princess Lucia. Of course, it is all make-believe, +but it is one way of keeping him quiet."</p> + +<p>He called to one of Santiago's servants, whom +Lucia had lent them to look after their horses.</p> + +<p>"Oh, Chomo!" he said. "Do you know what +Santiago's surname is?"</p> + +<p>"Si, señor. It is Ojeda."</p> + +<p>"What?" cried all the boys at once. "Ojeda? +Why, that was old Don Pablo's name."</p> + +<p>The boys stood and eyed each other in speechless +wonder. The same thought was in all their +minds.</p> + +<p>"Do you think it is possible?" asked Billie at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162" href="#Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span> +last.</p> + +<p>"Do I think what is possible?" asked Lieutenant +Grant.</p> + +<p>"Why, that Santiago could have given those +drafts to the stranger so as not to be known in +the matter."</p> + +<p>"Possibly. He seems a man of mystery."</p> + +<p>"Well," declared Billie, "I am going to find out."</p> + +<p>"How, I should like to know," asked Donald. +"He's too crazy to remember anything, even if he +wanted to tell you."</p> + +<p>"You forget Lucia," said Billie.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no, I haven't," laughed Donald, "and I have +no doubt she would tell you all about it if she knew; +but I do not believe she does. Santiago is too deep +to have entrusted his secrets to a girl not yet out +of her teens."</p> + +<p>"You never can tell," remarked the lieutenant. +"Men with a hobby do strange things. You'd better +ride along with me to headquarters. I'd like +to introduce you to General Funston. He's a man +after your own hearts. You know how he went +out and captured Aguinaldo when he was in the +Philippines."</p> + +<p>"I've read about it," replied Adrian. "It was a +bold deed."</p> + +<p>"Sure was," said Donald. "We'll be mighty +glad to meet him."</p> + +<p>It may also be said that General Funston was +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163" href="#Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span> +glad to meet the Broncho Rider Boys, especially +after Lieutenant Grant told him in a few words of +the good work they had done on the border and +on the day that Vera Cruz was taken.</p> + +<p>"And when do you expect to return to the United +States?" asked the general.</p> + +<p>"Just as soon as we can obtain passage," replied +Donald.</p> + +<p>"I think we can arrange that for you in a few +days," replied the general. "In the meantime come +in occasionally."</p> + +<p>The boys thanked him and started to leave, when +the telephone in the general's quarters rang. He +looked for some one to answer, but no one being +at hand, he picked up the 'phone himself.</p> + +<p>"What's that?" he asked after a brief moment. +"The water works. You think they are attempting +to cut you off. All right, I'll rush help."</p> + +<p>He set down the 'phone and turned to Lieutenant +Grant.</p> + +<p>"The enemy has gathered in force about the +water works," he said sharply. "They evidently +intend cutting off the water supply. Tell Colonel +Bright to send them reinforcements at once. Do +you boys know the way there?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," from all three.</p> + +<p>"Then show the men the nearest way! Now +go! The safety of the city may depend upon you!"</p> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<div><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164" href="#Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span></div> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX.</h2> + +<h3>AN UNUSUAL RIDING PARTY.</h3> + + +<p>Flinging themselves into the saddle, the boys +rode rapidly after Lieutenant Grant and were at +Colonel Bright's quarters by the time the bugle +had called to boots and saddle. In another minute, +at the head of a squadron of cavalry, they +dashed over the road they had come to know so +well.</p> + +<p>What happened during the next twenty minutes +is history.</p> + +<p>Guided by the boys, the reinforcements arrived +opportunely to stop the advance of a large body of +Mexicans who would have destroyed the water +works and have left the inhabitants and the American +troops entirely without water.</p> + +<p>A few minutes later two batteries with rapid-fire +guns put in an appearance, and in less time than +it takes to tell it, the Mexicans turned and fled.</p> + +<p>It was not General Funston's mission in Vera +Cruz to overrun any more Mexican territory, so +the Mexicans were allowed to retreat without pursuit; +but the lines were strengthened so that from +that time on there was never any danger from +Huerta's forces, although there were numerous +alarms and plenty of scout duty.</p> + +<p>During the few minutes of fighting, the boys were +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165" href="#Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span> +in the midst of it and all came through it without +a scratch. But it was exciting work and when it +was over they were publicly thanked by Colonel +Bright for their good work.</p> + +<p>"Well," laughed Billie as the three rode slowly +back to their home, "that's glory enough for one +day. I don't care to be a soldier."</p> + +<p>"Nor I!" agreed Donald. "I prefer a quiet life +on the ranch."</p> + +<p>"Which we are in a fair way to see in a few +weeks," commented Adrian. "I have no doubt +that General Funston will do as he agreed and find +us passage."</p> + +<p>"I for one shall be glad to return to the States," +said Donald.</p> + +<p>"So shall I after I have found out about Santiago's +connection with that ten thousand pounds."</p> + +<p>"That's right," was the laughing rejoinder. +"Stick to it, Billie, and who knows what may +happen?"</p> + +<p>"Do you know," remarked Adrian slowly, "I'm +beginning to be considerably worried for the Americans +scattered throughout Mexico."</p> + +<p>"Why should you be?" from Donald.</p> + +<p>"I remember Pedro's words that, if the United +States did anything, Carranza would unite with +Huerta."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe he would."</p> + +<p>"Maybe not. But the Zapata brothers will think +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166" href="#Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span> +this a good time to make the Americans trouble. +I was thinking of Mr. Black and Josie."</p> + +<p>"I'll bet you were," laughed Billie. "I wouldn't +be surprised if they were thinking about you. Hey, +Don?"</p> + +<p>"Well, they might do worse," said Donald. +"There are worse fellows than Adrian."</p> + +<p>"That's right," retorted Adrian good-humoredly. +"I can stand it. But, just the same, I wish I knew +they were safe."</p> + +<p>"Well, what's the matter with our paying them +a visit?" queried Billie.</p> + +<p>"Nix," from Donald. "We'll stay inside the +lines. I've had enough of this bush fighting."</p> + +<p>They approached Santiago's residence, where +they had decided to remain until they sailed, when +they perceived a peon on a pony standing by the +gate. As they drew near they recognized him as +one of the peons who had served as Mr. Black's +mozo.</p> + +<p>"Why, hello, José!" exclaimed Donald. "What +brings you here?"</p> + +<p>The mozo drew a letter from beneath his poncho +and handed it to Donald.</p> + +<p>"For me?" asked Donald. "I thought it must +be for Adrian. I didn't think the——"</p> + +<p>"It is from the jefe," interrupted the mozo.</p> + +<p>"Oh, it's from Mr. Black!" with an accent on the +Mr. "That's different."</p> + +<p>Donald opened the letter and read it hastily.</p> + +<p>"Well, by George!" he exclaimed, "what do you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167" href="#Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span> +think of that?"</p> + +<p>"I can tell you better when I know what that +is," replied Billie.</p> + +<p>"Why, Mr. Black is becoming alarmed over the +activities of the Carranza forces and wants us to +ask General Funston if he won't send out enough +cavalry to escort him and his daughter to Vera Cruz +in safety."</p> + +<p>"Of course we'll ask him!" exclaimed Adrian. +"Let's do it at once."</p> + +<p>"Now wait a minute," said Donald. "Let's see +about it."</p> + +<p>"What is there to see?"</p> + +<p>"There's a good deal to see. You remember +our experiences on the Rio Grande?"</p> + +<p>"But this is different! We are at war with Mexico +now."</p> + +<p>"No, we are not. We have simply seized one +port as a reprisal. To send a cavalry force out +into the country might bring on more trouble."</p> + +<p>"Well, I don't care!" exclaimed Adrian hotly. +"I'll go and ask him alone if you are afraid to go +with me. I'm not going to leave Jos—I mean Mr. +Black and his daughter out there at the mercies of +these greasers. You hear me!"</p> + +<p>"Oh, we'll go with you, all right!" said Billie. +"But don't be surprised if you don't get what you +ask."</p> + +<p>Accordingly the trio started for General Funston's +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168" href="#Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span> +headquarters. After some delay they were +admitted to his presence and Donald showed him +Mr. Black's letter.</p> + +<p>The general perused it carefully and then remained +silently thoughtful for some moments.</p> + +<p>"I wish I could do what our countryman asks," +he finally said, "but I do not see how I can. To +send a force out nearly fifty miles, even for such +a service, would be overstepping the purpose for +which I am here. I——"</p> + +<p>"But you wouldn't leave them out there to be +mistreated and perhaps killed, would you?" interrupted +Adrian.</p> + +<p>The general smiled.</p> + +<p>"Such is not my intention; but we must plan +some other way. We must use a little strategy."</p> + +<p>"That's right!" exclaimed Billie, "and I'll bet +the man who went out and rounded up Aguinaldo +will know how to do it!"</p> + +<p>Again the general smiled broadly, evidently well +pleased at the implied compliment.</p> + +<p>"I'll do the best I can," he said quietly, "but I +am not very familiar with the lay of the land. You +boys have had some experience. Perhaps you can +suggest something."</p> + +<p>Adrian said nothing, and Donald scratched his +head. It was Billie who spoke.</p> + +<p>"I was just wondering, General," he said, "if +some of the men wouldn't like to take a little horseback +ride and see something of the country."</p> + +<p>"Well, now, perhaps they might," assented the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169" href="#Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span> +general.</p> + +<p>"We could show them some mighty fine scenery, +sir."</p> + +<p>"By the moonlight, I suppose?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir. By the moonlight and early sunrise."</p> + +<p>"And about how many would you like to take +on this picnic?"</p> + +<p>"Well," replied Billie, squinting up one eye, "I +was thinking that Adrian and I might take out +about ten to-night. Then about the same time +to-morrow night Don could take another ten. We +would probably meet somewhere in the mountains +and watch the sun rise."</p> + +<p>"A very nice plan," said the general, "and one +of which I approve. You may ask Lieutenant Grant +to make enquiries among the men in his company +and see if there are any who would like to be +given two or three days' leave for such a purpose."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir!" and Billie touched his hat in +true military style.</p> + +<p>"And you might say to the lieutenant," was General +Funston's parting words, "that I should be glad +to hear later how the men enjoyed their ride. I +think, now that the boys are down here, they should +be given a chance to see the country."</p> + +<p>"Billie, you have the making of a great general," +was Donald's comment as they left the general's +quarters. "How did you think of it?"</p> + +<p>"I remembered my experience when I wanted men +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170" href="#Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span> +to help me get you and Ad out of trouble in Presidio. +Lieutenant Grant will know all about it."</p> + +<p>And so he did. In less than half an hour ten +regulars, some of them but very little older than +Billie and Adrian, were ready for the ride which +Billie had proposed and which in his mind would be +as far as Moreno.</p> + +<p>"You are sure ten will be enough?" asked Lieutenant +Grant.</p> + +<p>"Sure! Twelve Americans are enough to lick +fifty Mexicans if it comes to that; and besides we +shall have Mr. Black and Josie. He's as good as +four."</p> + +<p>"And don't forget the reinforcements, if they are +needed," laughed Donald. "We will be right on +the spot where we saw the sun rise the first morning +after we left Moreno."</p> + +<p>"It looks all right," was Lieutenant Grant's comment, +"but it is always well to have a big enough +force. Success to you!"</p> + +<p>"You'll make all the necessary explanations to +the crowd you bring out, Don," was Billie's parting +words. "Adrian and I will explain the nature +of the trip to our fellows as we ride along."</p> + +<p>This they did, and gave the soldier boys a little +history of their own troubles in reaching Vera Cruz.</p> + +<p>"No explanations are necessary," remarked a +young chap by the name of Brooks, a corporal. +"We saw you out at the water works and we know +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171" href="#Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span> +you are made of the right stuff. You lead! We'll +follow, won't we, boys?"</p> + +<p>"You bet!" replied the others in one voice.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX.</h2> + +<h3>ADRIAN FOILS A TRAITOR.</h3> + + +<p>It was nine o'clock of the second night that +Adrian and Billie, accompanied by Mr. Black's +mozo, José, and the ten troopers, reached the outskirts +of Moreno.</p> + +<p>They had made good headway the first night, +had slept in the hills during the day and had come +this far without molestation.</p> + +<p>"If everything goes to the end as it has this far," +remarked Corporal Brooks to Billie as they neared +the little town, "it will be nothing but a pleasant +outing, sure enough."</p> + +<p>Arriving at the edge of the town, the boys sent +José forward to see how the land lay and to bring +them word.</p> + +<p>"Do you think you can trust him?" asked the +corporal.</p> + +<p>"We'll have to," replied Adrian. "I believe he is +loyal, and Mr. Black seems to have complete confidence +in him."</p> + +<p>"Let's hope so, anyway," said Billie. "It seems +to be the best we can do to get word to Mr. Black +of our presence."</p> + +<p>"Hurry back, José," urged Adrian as the mozo<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172" href="#Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span> +departed.</p> + +<p>"Si, señor," was the brief reply. "You may depend +on me."</p> + +<p>"It ought not to take him more than half an +hour," explained Billie. "It isn't more than a +mile."</p> + +<p>But a half hour passed and then another and +still no José.</p> + +<p>"Something must have happened to him," said +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"That's the charitable way to look at it," laughed +the corporal. "It's more likely, however, that he's +making arrangements to have something happen +to us."</p> + +<p>"I hardly think so," was Billie's comment, "but, +if he is, we'll fool him."</p> + +<p>"How?"</p> + +<p>"We'll move."</p> + +<p>"But he may come back."</p> + +<p>"We'll leave one man here on guard. The rest +of us will go around to the other side of town."</p> + +<p>"Good!" from the corporal. "You are a strategist."</p> + +<p>The plan was at once carried into effect.</p> + +<p>"Now then," said Billie, "I'm going in to town +myself."</p> + +<p>"Not much," declared Adrian. "I'm going."</p> + +<p>"I'd offer to go myself," laughed the corporal, +"but I don't know the place."</p> + +<p>"We'll toss for it," said Billie.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173" href="#Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span></p> + +<p>"All right," and Adrian produced a coin. +"Heads I win. Tails you lose."</p> + +<p>"No funny business," said Billie. "Choose heads +if you want."</p> + +<p>Adrian flipped the coin. It came down heads +up.</p> + +<p>"All right," agreed Billie. "Now for some set +of signals."</p> + +<p>"Our old Broncho Rider whistle if I need help," +said Adrian. "If everything is O. K., I'll give the +whip-poor-will."</p> + +<p>Adrian slid from his horse.</p> + +<p>"What are you doing?" asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"I'm going afoot. I didn't spend my boyhood +among the Indians for nothing. Good-bye!" and a +moment later he disappeared in the fading moonlight.</p> + +<p>"Whatever the conditions," said Billie, "we'll +soon know," as he settled back in his saddle.</p> + +<p>Running swiftly along, Adrian made straight for +the barracks in which he knew would be found +whatever soldiers might be in the city.</p> + +<p>"If I find everything quiet at the barracks," was +his thought, "I can go straight to where Mr. Black +is stopping without fear. If I find there is any +disturbance, I'll be more careful."</p> + +<p>Ten minutes of running brought him to the barracks. +All was as quiet as the hour demanded. He +stood under the shadow of the back wall long +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174" href="#Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span> +enough to hear the sentry's call and then he turned +in the direction of the house where the two Americans +were stopping.</p> + +<p>It was only a few blocks away and he reached +it without incident.</p> + +<p>"Kind o' funny," he mused, "that I haven't seen +or heard a soul on the street. I wonder what's become +of José?"</p> + +<p>He stopped a minute to ponder.</p> + +<p>"Things are going almost too smooth. I'll just +stop a bit."</p> + +<p>He stole past the house and a moment later threw +himself into the gutter, where he lay as one dead.</p> + +<p>The wisdom of his action soon became apparent.</p> + +<p>He hadn't been lying there two minutes until +a solitary figure passed him and stopped in front of +the house, evidently listening to hear what might +be going on inside.</p> + +<p>A moment later he was joined by another figure. +Adrian could just make them out in the darkness.</p> + +<p>"Have they come?" was the whispered question.</p> + +<p>"I can't tell," was the whispered reply.</p> + +<p>Adrian heard both the question and the answer +distinctly.</p> + +<p>"It's José," he said to himself. "He knew that +it was the plan for Billie and I both to come to +the house. The traitor! I have a notion to shoot +him in his tracks."</p> + +<p>Only the fear of creating a disturbance kept the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175" href="#Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span> +lad from carrying out his notion.</p> + +<p>"Why don't you knock and tell the Gringo you +are here?" was the next question.</p> + +<p>"They might be in there."</p> + +<p>"Well, what of that? You can tell them you +were stopped by the guard and have just been released. +That'll seem reasonable."</p> + +<p>José stepped to the door and knocked.</p> + +<p>There was no response and he knocked again.</p> + +<p>"Who is there?" asked a voice.</p> + +<p>"José. I just come from Vera Cruz. Let me in."</p> + +<p>There was a movement within and presently the +door opened and José entered, closing the door behind +him.</p> + +<p>Adrian slowly arose to a kneeling posture.</p> + +<p>"I wonder what the other will do now?" he +wondered.</p> + +<p>He did not have long to wait, for the other +knocked on the pavement with his gun and presently +several more figures appeared. Adrian had +just time to throw himself to the ground and escape +detection.</p> + +<p>The men in front of the house exchanged whispered +confidences and then all but one started to +leave.</p> + +<p>"If any one attempts to leave the house," was +the command, "fire! If any one attempts to enter, +allow them to do so and then give the customary +call."</p> + +<p>"Bueno!" was the response, and all but the one<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176" href="#Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span> +withdrew.</p> + +<p>A minute later Adrian again arose to a crouching +posture and as the sentry cautiously approached +the door, he crept up behind him. An instant more +and he was upon the man and had him by the +throat.</p> + +<p>The man was a wiry Mexican and evidently in +training, for he squirmed and kicked vigorously; +but Adrian's grip was too firm upon him and in a +couple of minutes he sank down limp upon the +ground.</p> + +<p>The noise of the scuffle must have been heard +inside, for the door cautiously opened and a head +peered out.</p> + +<p>Without a question Adrian sprang within, dragging +the lifeless form of the sentry with him.</p> + +<p>"Quick, bar the gate!" he commanded.</p> + +<p>The command was obeyed.</p> + +<p>"Now where is Mr. Black?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Upstairs talking with José."</p> + +<p>"All right. Bind this man while I go up. Don't +let him escape or he is liable to cut your throat."</p> + +<p>"<i>No temer V, señor</i>" was the response, meaning +"Have no fear."</p> + +<p>Adrian ran lightly up the stairs, revolver in hand. +He heard voices talking and had no doubt that +José was narrating some trumped-up story.</p> + +<p>"Yes, señor," he heard the mozo say, "they are +expecting you. It is necessary that you go at once."</p> + +<p>Adrian flung open the door and covered José<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177" href="#Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span> +with his revolver.</p> + +<p>"Put up your hands," he commanded. Then to +Mr. Black, to whom José was talking: "Take his +weapons away from him, Mr. Black."</p> + +<p>Realizing at once that something was wrong, Mr. +Black obeyed.</p> + +<p>"Now tie him."</p> + +<p>This was also quickly done, Mr. Black asking at +the same time what had happened.</p> + +<p>"I can't tell you exactly, Mr. Black, but this +man has betrayed us and we are now watched by +a squad of soldiers."</p> + +<p>Mr. Black's face turned as black as his name.</p> + +<p>"Is that true?" he demanded, seizing José by +the shoulder with such a powerful grip that the +man cried out with pain.</p> + +<p>"Oh, señor," he cried, "don't kill me! I will +tell you all."</p> + +<p>"See that you do," was the command. "One lie +and I will wring your neck as I would a chicken. +You know me."</p> + +<p>"I'll tell the truth. I told the captain at the barracks. +He is going to capture all the Americanos +and hold them for ransom and I am to have half."</p> + +<p>"That is evidently the truth," declared Adrian, +and he proceeded to tell Mr. Black what was being +done to get him and his daughter to Vera Cruz, +and how José had played them false.</p> + +<p>For a moment it looked as though Mr. Black +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178" href="#Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span> +might wreak his vengeance on José, but after a +minute he thought better of it.</p> + +<p>"You ought to die this minute," he declared, "but +I'll wait till I have more time." Then to Adrian: +"What had we better do now?"</p> + +<p>Before Adrian could reply the clear note of a +bugle rang out upon the night air.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI.</h2> + +<h3>ADRIAN HAS AN ACCIDENT.</h3> + + +<p>"What do you suppose that means?" asked +Adrian.</p> + +<p>Mr. Black made no reply and a moment later +the bugle call was repeated.</p> + +<p>"It sounds to me," said Mr. Black, "as though +some fresh troops were coming in."</p> + +<p>"That's bad," was Adrian's comment.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps not, my lad, if we act quickly."</p> + +<p>"How so?"</p> + +<p>"The new arrivals may take up the attention of +the gang of bandits outside and we may get away +ere they return."</p> + +<p>"Good," was Adrian's comment. "Where is Miss +Josie?"</p> + +<p>"Waiting in the next room with the family of +my host."</p> + +<p>Mr. Black stepped to the door and called to +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179" href="#Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span> +those within. In a few words he explained the +situation and in less than three minutes he and +the girl were mounted and ready to ride.</p> + +<p>"Where is your horse?" he asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I left it with the boys at the cocoanut grove."</p> + +<p>"But we can't go and leave you here."</p> + +<p>"Of course not. I shall run alongside of your +horse, holding to its mane, Indian fashion. Now +then, are we ready?"</p> + +<p>"All ready!"</p> + +<p>The great gate was opened noiselessly and, bidding +a subdued good-bye to the family, the three +passed out into the night.</p> + +<p>"I should have throttled José ere I left," declared +Mr. Black as they passed down the street.</p> + +<p>"I wish we were as safe as he is," laughed +Adrian.</p> + +<p>For three blocks they wended their way as silently +as possible and just as they came out into +the open there came another bugle call.</p> + +<p>"That's for us," said Adrian. "There is no +mistaking that command. Now to run for it."</p> + +<p>The two riders put spurs to their horses and +Adrian bounded along at their side, running as +lightly as an antelope. They were rapidly nearing +the spot where the Americans were in waiting, when +Adrian stepped into a hole and pitched forward +onto his face.</p> + +<p>"Don't stop for me!" he called. "I'll be there as +quick as you are!"</p> + +<p>He picked himself up and started to run, but his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180" href="#Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span> +ankle gave him such a pain that he almost fainted.</p> + +<p>"Great Scott!" he exclaimed, "I've sprained my +ankle."</p> + +<p>He sat down and rubbed the maimed member +for a couple of minutes and then attempted to hobble +on. It was more than he could bear and he +sat down again.</p> + +<p>"By George," he groaned, "this is tough! I'll +have to call for help."</p> + +<p>He gave the well-known whistle, but there was +no response.</p> + +<p>He gave it again; but still no answer.</p> + +<p>"Worse and more of it," he muttered. "Something +has happened to Billie."</p> + +<p>What it might be Adrian could not imagine, but +he was sure that his chum was not at the appointed +spot, as he was near enough to have heard the +whistle and would surely have answered.</p> + +<p>"Well, I can't stay here. The greasers will be +coming pretty soon. I must get along some way."</p> + +<p>He got up and walked a few steps and again sat +down. There was no sound of a pursuit and the +hoofbeats of Mr. Black's horses had ceased.</p> + +<p>"They have reached the grove," Adrian muttered. +"I must get there some way."</p> + +<p>Once more he arose to his feet and took several +steps and then sank down in a faint, so great was +the pain.</p> + +<p>When he came to himself he was lying upon a +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181" href="#Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span> +matting of some kind and to his ears came the +faint sound of a guitar, followed a few moments +later by sounds of girlish laughter.</p> + +<p>He sat up and looked around, but could see nothing, +except a ray of light coming in through a little +crack between a couple of blankets that formed a +curtain in a doorway.</p> + +<p>"Where in the name of common sense am I?" +he muttered.</p> + +<p>He attempted to get to his feet, but the pain in +his ankle brought him quickly to himself.</p> + +<p>"Now I remember!" he exclaimed. "I fell and +sprained my ankle. But how did I get here?"</p> + +<p>He started to call, but at that moment the music +ceased and a minute later he heard voices saying +good night. Then a door was closed and immediately +the curtains were thrown open and a peon +woman stood in the door.</p> + +<p>"Oh!" she exclaimed, upon seeing Adrian sitting +up and looking at her. "Then you are not +dead?"</p> + +<p>"I should say not. Did you think I was?"</p> + +<p>"I was afraid so."</p> + +<p>"Why?"</p> + +<p>"Because your death might be laid at my door."</p> + +<p>"Evidently she hasn't discovered I am an American," +thought Adrian. "Well, I'll not tell her until +I have to."</p> + +<p>The woman turned around and called to some one +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182" href="#Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span> +in the other room and another figure appeared in +the door—that of a girl some fifteen years of age.</p> + +<p>"Look, Peppita," and the elder woman pointed +at Adrian.</p> + +<p>The girl gave a little scream.</p> + +<p>"<i>Madre mia!</i>" she exclaimed. "Who is it?"</p> + +<p>"I know not, my child. I found him unconscious +at our back door and dragged him inside."</p> + +<p>"I beg your pardon," said Adrian. "I didn't +know I was near any house."</p> + +<p>"It is a very poor one, señor. I and my daughter +are all alone since my poor Leocadio was killed."</p> + +<p>"Who killed him?" asked Adrian, becoming interested.</p> + +<p>"The Huertistas. He was a soldier under Gen. +Dorantes."</p> + +<p>"Is that so?" exclaimed Adrian. "I know Gen. +Dorantes well. He is a fine man. But you will +soon be avenged, for Huerta's days are short."</p> + +<p>The woman's eyes snapped.</p> + +<p>"<i>Es verdad?</i>" meaning, "Is it true?"</p> + +<p>"It certainly is. Since the Americans have taken +Vera Cruz, Gen. Huerta will have to go. It is +only a question of a few days."</p> + +<p>"<i>Bienissimo!</i> The Americans are brave men! +My Leocadio was fond of the Americans."</p> + +<p>"I am glad of that, señora, for I am an American."</p> + +<p>The woman and girl both started back as in fear +and then came forward again.</p> + +<p>"How did you come here, señor?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183" href="#Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span></p> + +<p>"I fell from a horse and sprained my ankle. I +tried to walk and must have fainted."</p> + +<p>"Have you friends in Moreno?"</p> + +<p>"I did have, but they have gone and I want to +get to Vera Cruz."</p> + +<p>"Vera Cruz is a long way, señor. I never expect +to go that far from home—me and my little Peppa."</p> + +<p>Adrian smiled.</p> + +<p>"I expect it does look like a long ways to you, +señora; but it is not far. Do you think I can stay +here with you until my ankle is well enough to +walk? I have a little money. I will pay you something."</p> + +<p>"Oh, Mother!" exclaimed the girl, who now +spoke for the first time. "You will let him stay, +won't you?"</p> + +<p>"The wife of Leocadio would not turn a lame +dog out, much less a lame boy."</p> + +<p>"<i>Mil gracias, señora!</i>" exclaimed Adrian, with +much gratitude. "Yes, more than a thousand +thanks. You will never regret it."</p> + +<p>"The wife of Leocadio is not learned," was the +reply, "but she knows an honest youth when she +sees one. Come, Peppita, let the young man go +to sleep. We will make our bed out here."</p> + +<p>She drew the curtains together and Adrian was +left alone to his own reflections.</p> + +<p>"By George!" he exclaimed under his breath, +"if I ever get out of this measly country, I'll be +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184" href="#Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span> +glad. I wonder what has become of Billie? Of +course he'll look for me, and old Don, too; but +it looks as though it might be weeks before I could +walk. Well, I don't care. If Mr. Black and Josie +got away, that's glory enough for one day."</p> + +<p>He settled himself down and tried to go to sleep, +but his leg hurt him so that he could not. In +fact, the pain was so great that every once in a +while he groaned.</p> + +<p>After a few of these groans the woman appeared +in the door with an earthen vessel filled with hot +water.</p> + +<p>"If the señor will bind this on his ankle, it will +do it much good," she said.</p> + +<p>"I'll do anything to get rid of this pain," said +Adrian.</p> + +<p>He took the jar and, dipping his handkerchief +in it, bathed his ankle freely and finally bound the +cloth around the swollen part.</p> + +<p>"There," he muttered as he at last succeeded +in finding a comfortable position, "now I think I +can get a little sleep."</p> + +<p>How long thereafter it was before he came +to himself he did not know, but when he opened his +eyes the first streak of daylight was creeping in +through a little window.</p> + +<p>A minute later there was the rattle of musketry, +followed by a hearty American cheer. He raised +up to look out of the window, when the side of the +room came in with a crash.</p> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<div><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185" href="#Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span></div> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII.</h2> + +<h3>A RESCUE AND A SURPRISE.</h3> + + +<p>It would be hard to describe Adrian's surprise +at the unexpected event which closed the preceding +chapter. His first thought was that a cannon ball +had struck the house, but a second thought convinced +him that such was not the case. Before +he had time to think further he heard a big voice +call out:</p> + +<p>"Here he is!"</p> + +<p>A moment later Mr. Black burst in through the +opening in the wall and, picking Adrian up in his +arms as though he had been a baby, started on a +run with him for the nearest horse.</p> + +<p>"There you are!" he exclaimed as he set the +boy on the horse. "Now to run for it!"</p> + +<p>Adrian needed no second bidding, but digging +his heels into the horse's side he dashed away toward +the cocoanut grove, his flight being protected +by the Americans with Billie at their head.</p> + +<p>A couple of minutes after, the entire band had +rallied in the shelter of the trees, where they stopped +to plan for the next move.</p> + +<p>"How did you ever find me?" asked Adrian as +he and Billie peered out toward the town.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Black knew about where he lost you and +we tracked you by your trail. Whoever dragged +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186" href="#Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span> +you into the house, left a trail as wide as your +body."</p> + +<p>"It was a woman," explained Adrian, "and she +was hiding me. But where were you when I whistled +for help?"</p> + +<p>"That's a long story," was the reply, "which I +will tell you when we have time; but briefly we +were on the other side of the town, where we left +the man on guard. It appears that our friend José +was a first-class traitor."</p> + +<p>"As I discovered," said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Yes," continued Billie, "he sent a bunch of soldiers +to capture us. The sentry heard them coming +and gave the alarm. We went to his aid and +succeeded in rescuing him, but that is what got +us into this trouble."</p> + +<p>"And now what?"</p> + +<p>"Now we have to get away just as soon as we +can."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Mr. Black. "There is no enemy +in sight at this moment and the best thing we can +do is to run for it. If we can cross the valley +safely, we shall have little trouble."</p> + +<p>"I'd like to stay and give them a few shots," +said the corporal, "but it would probably be unwise."</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you what, Brooks," suggested Billie, +"suppose you and I remain behind until we see +the others well across the valley. If there is any +pursuit, we can hold them back for a few minutes. +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187" href="#Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span> +They will not know how many we are and +it will give the others a chance to escort Mr. Black +and his daughter to a place of safety. You know +that is what we really came for."</p> + +<p>"Fine!" was the corporal's reply.</p> + +<p>Mr. Black and Adrian protested, but they were +overruled.</p> + +<p>"It's a good idea," said the oldest of the troopers, +"and now to run for it."</p> + +<p>It was fully five minutes after the others had +left that Billie and Brooks saw the Mexican infantry, +some fifty in number, emerge from the town +and come slowly toward them.</p> + +<p>Looking across the valley, they could perceive +that the little band under the direction of Mr. +Black was nearing the protection of the forest that +covered the next hillside.</p> + +<p>"Two minutes more and they will be safe," said +Billie.</p> + +<p>"Then we'll give them the two minutes," replied +the corporal. "Cut loose at the bunch as soon as +it is near enough."</p> + +<p>A moment later two rifles spoke out and then +they turned loose their automatics, to give the impression +of a much larger force.</p> + +<p>Two men fell and a minute later two more, as +the boys' Winchesters again spoke.</p> + +<p>"Now for the horses!" cried Billie as the Mexicans +threw themselves upon the ground.</p> + +<p>They sprang to their horses and dashed away<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188" href="#Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span> +down the valley.</p> + +<p>They were not discovered until they had cleared +the shelter of the trees and then a volley was fired +after them. The bullets sang all around them, but +they escaped unhurt, and before another volley +they were out of range.</p> + +<p>"It's a good thing for us that they have no +cavalry," said Brooks as they sped along.</p> + +<p>"Sure is," was the response, "and I hope they +don't succeed in getting word ahead of us."</p> + +<p>"We'll fix that," said Brooks. "We cross the +railroad just at the foot of the hill and I'll climb +up and cut the telegraph wires."</p> + +<p>"They may have sent word already."</p> + +<p>"Hardly. They may have tried to, but it's dollars +to doughnuts that there was nobody at Joachin or +Rio Blanco to receive it. The nearest night operator, +I imagine, is at Piedras Negras."</p> + +<p>"They may send a force from there to head us +off," suggested Billie.</p> + +<p>"That's so; but I'm not sure whether Piedras +Negras is held by the Carranza or the Huerta +forces."</p> + +<p>"It's a terrible mix-up, isn't it?" laughed Billie. +"But I guess either side would be glad to +get us."</p> + +<p>They had reached the tracks by this time and a +couple of minutes later Brooks was up a pole and +with the aid of his bayonet broke the wires.</p> + +<p>"If it isn't too late, that'll hold 'em for a while,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189" href="#Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span> +he remarked as he descended from the pole and +mounted his horse.</p> + +<p>When they joined the main company, Billie told +Mr. Black what they had done and repeated to him +what Brooks had said.</p> + +<p>"I think he is right," said Mr. Black, "and my +advice is that we should give Piedras Negras a +wide berth."</p> + +<p>"We can't get too far away from the railroad," +explained Billie, "or we shall miss Don and his +company. They are coming out for just such an +emergency."</p> + +<p>They rode rapidly forward for a couple of hours +and then, turning sharply off the highway, took to +the woods which now grew dense all along the +mountain sides.</p> + +<p>About ten o'clock they stopped for breakfast +and then all took a nap until the sun drew near +the western horizon.</p> + +<p>"We should reach our rendezvous with Don about +dark," explained Billie, "and that would get us +into Vera Cruz about daylight."</p> + +<p>As they approached the appointed spot, Billie +and Adrian, ever on the alert, noticed almost as +one that the place had a changed appearance and +mentioned it to the others.</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?" asked the corporal.</p> + +<p>"I can't exactly explain," was Adrian's reply, +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190" href="#Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span> +"but my prairie training always warns me to go +slow when I sense danger."</p> + +<p>"A mighty good idea," muttered one of the +troopers, an old campaigner who had seen service +with Funston in the Philippines. "These are slippery +chaps."</p> + +<p>"If I could walk," was Adrian's comment, "I'd +soon find out what is wrong; but you can't scout +on horseback."</p> + +<p>The cavalcade came to a halt and the men examined +their weapons to be sure they were in +order.</p> + +<p>"What do you think we'd better do, Ad?" queried +Billie.</p> + +<p>"I don't know. How far are we from the rendezvous?"</p> + +<p>"Not more than half a mile."</p> + +<p>"If it were not for the possibility of making matters +worse," suggested Adrian, "I'd fire a few shots; +but of course what we want is to get into Vera +Cruz without a fight. What do you think, Mr. +Black?"</p> + +<p>"This is new business to me, boys," was the +reply. "I'll have to leave it to you."</p> + +<p>"What's the matter with my going on a scout?" +asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"Nothing the matter with your going," laughed +Adrian, "but there might be with your coming +back. No, I shall have to go, ankle or no ankle."</p> + +<p>He slid from his horse, and almost before any +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191" href="#Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span> +one realized what he was doing he had slipped +away on his hands and knees.</p> + +<p>"He is certainly a brave boy," was Josie's remark, +"and I hate to think of his taking all this +risk on my account."</p> + +<p>"Not so much risk for him as for us, I'm thinking," +muttered the old trooper. "They are looking +for mounted men—if they're looking at all—and +not for crawling boys."</p> + +<p>The old trooper was right, and ten minutes later +Adrian returned to say that there was a small body +of horsemen at the next turn of the road.</p> + +<p>"Did you see anything of Don?" queried Billie.</p> + +<p>"Not a sign."</p> + +<p>"That's mighty funny. Where do you suppose he +can be?"</p> + +<p>"He may be hiding back in the woods, just as we +are."</p> + +<p>"Well," said the corporal, "now that we know +where the greasers are, what's the matter of going +forward?"</p> + +<p>"No matter at all," replied Adrian. "We can +easily bear away to the left and give them the +shake, but I don't know what to do about the +others."</p> + +<p>"The others will have to look out for themselves," +replied Brooks. "They are able to do +it."</p> + +<p>The words had hardly left his lips ere there came +the sound of a single shot away to the left.</p> + +<p>"There they are!" cried Billie. "Come on!"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192" href="#Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span></p> + +<p>The little cavalcade started forward, but ere they +had gone a dozen rods they could hear the sound of +approaching horsemen, crashing through the woods +to their right.</p> + +<p>"The Mexicans!" said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"To cover, every man!" cried the corporal.</p> + +<p>A minute later every horse lay flat on the ground +with his rider concealed behind him.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2> + +<h3>A DINNER AND ITS RESULT.</h3> + + +<p>With a shout the Mexicans broke into the clearing +which the Americans had just left. They were +a motley crowd, not much like the cavalry that +forms such a great part of Uncle Sam's army.</p> + +<p>"It seems a shame to hurt them," muttered the +corporal. "They look as though they would run +if you said boo!"</p> + +<p>Seeing no one, the Mexicans, some twenty or +twenty-five in number, came to a halt and their +leaders held a council of war.</p> + +<p>The Americans, a couple of rods back in the +woods, partly concealed by the trees and partly by +the deepening twilight, watched them silently.</p> + +<p>After a couple of minutes' confab, the captain +of the band gave an order which the boys could +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193" href="#Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span> +not hear and a couple of Mexicans dismounted +and began carefully to examine the ground. They +were looking for the prints of horses' hoofs.</p> + +<p>"<i>Aqui'sta!</i>" exclaimed one of the men on foot, +pointing to the ground.</p> + +<p>The captain drew near and leaned over from his +horse to see more clearly.</p> + +<p>He was evidently satisfied, for he straightened +up and gave another command and the two horsemen +sprang to their saddles.</p> + +<p>Another command and every man's sabre flashed +in the air.</p> + +<p>Raising his own sabre aloft, the captain was +about to give another command, when there was +the sound of a single shot from the rear and the +captain's sabre went flying from his hand, struck +by a rifle ball.</p> + +<p>"<i>Carramba!</i>" he cried. "<i>Emboscado!</i>" meaning +"an ambush," and putting spurs to his horse he +turned and fled in the direction from which he +had come, followed by the entire band, while the +Americans fired a volley into the air.</p> + +<p>"They'll never stop running," laughed the corporal, +"until they reach home—wherever that is."</p> + +<p>"And in the meantime we'll get out of here," +said Mr. Black.</p> + +<p>The men sprang to their feet and to their horses. +At the same moment there came from the woods +to the left the well-known whistle of the Broncho +Rider Boys.</p> + +<p>"It's Don!" cried Billie, as he gave the answering<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194" href="#Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span> +call, and an instant later Donald came into +view through the trees, closely followed by half +a score of Uncle Sam's troopers.</p> + +<p>"Just too late," said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Too late for what?" queried Donald.</p> + +<p>"To see a masterly retreat," and in a few words +he told Donald what had occurred.</p> + +<p>"Well," was the rejoinder, "I am glad no blood +was shed. But who fired the shot from the rear?"</p> + +<p>"I," came a voice, and out of the shadows appeared +a figure which had a most familiar appearance. +"If you don't recognize me," he continued, +"you may recognize Ambrosio."</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed Billie, "if it isn't our +old friend Strong. Where on earth did you come +from?"</p> + +<p>"I suppose I might ask you the same thing," +was the laughing reply. "Briefly, I am on my way +to Vera Cruz. I heard there was a band of American +brigands out in the mountains and I thought +I might fall in with them."</p> + +<p>"So that's what they call us, is it?" said Billie. +"I never expected to be called a brigand."</p> + +<p>"Strange things happen to men who travel," declared +Strong facetiously; "but you'd better be going. +There are some good troops in this section +and they are on the lookout."</p> + +<p>"Good advice," muttered the old trooper. "This +ain't no pleasure excursion."</p> + +<p>"Sorry we haven't a horse for you," said Adrian<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195" href="#Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span> +to Strong, "but I guess you are used to walking."</p> + +<p>"A good deal more so than riding. But, if one +of you don't mind giving Ambrosio a lift, it will +help some."</p> + +<p>Several expressed their willingness to take the +ape on behind, but he would go to no one but +Billie.</p> + +<p>"All right, old man," laughed the boy; "but no +funny business," and he broke off a twig and shook +it at Ambrosio. "You see this."</p> + +<p>Now that the two companies had united, they +broke away from the railroad and made a bee line +toward Vera Cruz, arriving in sight of the city +at daybreak.</p> + +<p>"Here's where we part company with the troopers," +explained Donald. "We six and Ambrosio +will ride into town together and the boys will come +in as they wish. There must be no suggestion of +a military expedition."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Mr. Black, "and I want to thank +you all for your kindness to my daughter and to +me. That is about all I can do now. Perhaps some +day I can do more."</p> + +<p>"That's enough," muttered the old trooper, "unless +you can get us all sent back home. I can't +see any use of keeping us here."</p> + +<p>"That's all right, old man," laughed the corporal. +"You know you would not go home if you +could."</p> + +<p>"Better not give me a chance," was the grumbling<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196" href="#Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span> +reply, as the trooper bit off a big piece of +tobacco and tucked it away in his cheek.</p> + +<p>Reveille was just sounding when the boys, accompanied +by their three friends and Ambrosio, +perched upon Billie's horse, drew up in front of +Lieut. Grant's quarters. They had been recognized +and passed through the lines, and as the men caught +sight of them they were given a hearty cheer.</p> + +<p>"You seem to have made friends," laughed the +lieutenant as he greeted them, "and there is every +reason why you should. The general will be glad +to see you and hear your report. I have no doubt +you have a good story to tell, and he likes a good +story."</p> + +<p>When the boys reached home they found the gate +still locked, although it was now considerably past +the time when the household was astir. Their knock +was answered by the <i>portero</i>, who, in response to a +question by Billie, said that Santiago was seriously +ill and had been for thirty-six hours.</p> + +<p>"What is the matter?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"Fever."</p> + +<p>"I am not surprised," declared Adrian. "The +strange thoughts he has been thinking so many +days were bound to result in something serious."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps it is not convenient for us to remain +here," said Mr. Black. "We can, I am sure, find +some other place."</p> + +<p>But at this moment Lucia appeared at the head +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197" href="#Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span> +of the stairs. When made acquainted with Mr. +Black's words she would not hear of his taking +Josie to any other house and gave orders for making +her perfectly at home. The only one who did +not remain was Strong.</p> + +<p>"I'll come back this evening," he said. "I have +a strange story to tell you boys and I may need +your help in locating a man I am most anxious to +find."</p> + +<p>But he did not come back that evening, and when +he did come the next night the boys were not +there, having been invited to dine with Gen. Funston. +Had things not happened thus, a part of +this story could never have been written, for it +was while dining with the general that the boys +were given a duty to perform, which was the most +arduous of all their adventures in the land of the +Montezumas.</p> + +<p>And this was the manner of it.</p> + +<p>They were just finishing dinner and Billie was +congratulating himself that he had had his fill of +good American cooking, when an aide announced +that a Mexican gentleman, Don Esteban Mendoza, +craved an immediate audience with Gen. Funston.</p> + +<p>"I am sure you young gentlemen will excuse me +a few minutes," said the general, "as Don Esteban +is one of the prominent bankers of the city and I +know his business must be of importance."</p> + +<p>The boys were glad to accept the proffered excuse +and the general withdrew, leaving them in the +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198" href="#Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span> +company of several members of his staff, to whom +they briefly related their recent adventure. When +they told of the "ambush" there was much amusement.</p> + +<p>In the midst of their conversation the general +returned accompanied by Don Esteban.</p> + +<p>"These are the young gentlemen to whom I referred," +explained the general, introducing the +boys. "They are typical Americans and, being +civilians and speaking Spanish fluently, will be just +the ones to help you in your trouble."</p> + +<p>Then to the boys: "Don Esteban has a very delicate +mission for which he asks the assistance of +Americans. He wished me to detail three young +officers for the work, but this I do not feel I can +do, as it is strictly a private mission. If you feel +that you can undertake it, he will be glad to explain +it to you."</p> + +<p>"Anything that you recommend, General, we shall +be glad to undertake," replied Donald, acting as +spokesman for the trio.</p> + +<p>"Then I shall turn you over to Don Esteban, and +as his business is pressing, I will excuse you if +you wish to accompany him home."</p> + +<p>"A thousand thanks, General," said Don Esteban +effusively. Then to the boys: "My automobile is +at the door. If you will take seats in it, we shall +be speedily at my house. You will pardon me if +I speak nothing but Spanish, as I know very little +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199" href="#Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span> +English, although"—with an expressive glance at +Gen. Funston—"I hope to know it better."</p> + +<p>Following Don Esteban, they were soon speeding +through the streets and five minutes later entered +a handsome patio.</p> + +<p>"This is my house," said Don Esteban. "Be +pleased to consider it your own. Now, if you will +follow me to the library, I will explain the mission +I wish you to undertake."</p> + +<p>The boys followed without a word, but as they +passed up the stairs Billie muttered under his +breath:</p> + +<p>"Did you notice, boys, that this house backs right +up against Santiago's?"</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2> + +<h3>DON ESTEBAN'S STRANGE LOSS.</h3> + + +<p>"Before I explain to you the mission I wish you +to undertake," said Don Esteban, "I must narrate +briefly a story that has been handed down from +the days of Montezuma. It is to the effect that +when the Spanish conqueror, Cortez, was about +to capture the City of Mexico, most of the treasure +of the Aztecs was sunk in the lake, which at +that time covered a portion of the Mexican plateau.</p> + +<p>"A part of this treasure is said to have been recovered, +but the mine from which the gold of +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200" href="#Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span> +Montezuma was taken has never been discovered, +although search has been made for upward of five +hundred years. Some have supposed that the mine +was adjacent to the City of Mexico and that it +was flooded at the time the treasure was sunk in +the lake. Others have thought it was located in +the state of Michoacan, while still others have believed +it located in the vicinity of Mt. Orizaba.</p> + +<p>"My reason for telling you this is that some +years ago a strange appearing man came to our +bank and made a large deposit of money, all in +gold. He did not deposit it all at once, but brought +it in a few thousand dollars at a time until it +amounted to more than a million dollars. Then +he disappeared and we have never seen him since."</p> + +<p>"And has he never called for any of the money?" +asked Billie.</p> + +<p>"Not in person, although he has drawn upon it +at frequent intervals. The name under which it +was deposited is James Moon."</p> + +<p>"An American?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"I could not say whether he was an American +or an Englishman. We took him for the latter. +But now I am coming to the real part of the +story.</p> + +<p>"In addition to the money which he deposited, +he also left with us a small brass-bound box, in +which he said there were valuable papers. He gave +orders that it should be delivered to no one but +himself in person, or until the expiration of ten +years. The ten years will be up in a few days<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201" href="#Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span> +and this afternoon I bethought me of the box. +But when I went into the vault in which it has been +kept for so many years, the place upon an upper +shelf, where it has always stood, was vacant. The +box was gone!"</p> + +<p>"Gone?" exclaimed all the boys in unison. "Do +you mean stolen?"</p> + +<p>"So it would appear."</p> + +<p>"How could it have been done?" asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I cannot say; but the strange thing about the +whole matter is that in place of the box, there lay +upon the shelf an envelope—yellow with age, upon +which was written in ink that had scarcely faded +the words: 'Montezuma's Mine.'"</p> + +<p>"Well, what do you think of that?" queried Billie, +looking at the others in amazement.</p> + +<p>"I don't think," laughed Adrian. "It's up to you +to do the thinking."</p> + +<p>"Is there no clue whatever?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"Not that could be really called a clue. The +only suspicious thing that has happened to-day at +all, was that a mountebank came into our bank——"</p> + +<p>"A mountebank!" from all.</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"Did he have an ape with him?"</p> + +<p>"No! He was quite alone. He did not come in +to make merry, but to get a bill changed. While +he was there he was observed to scrutinize the +place very closely."</p> + +<p>"But he did not go into your vault?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202" href="#Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span></p> + +<p>"No! He took his change and went peaceably +out."</p> + +<p>"Then, why should you suspect him?" insisted +Donald, casting a knowing glance at the other boys.</p> + +<p>"Because, an hour later, he came in again and +said that one of the bills we gave him as change +was a counterfeit."</p> + +<p>"Was it?"</p> + +<p>"No, it was not, although it was an old issue. +The teller who waited upon him had no recollection +of ever having seen the bill before, but rather +than have a scene, we gave him another bill for +it."</p> + +<p>"How large a bill was it?" asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Only a peso"—that is a dollar—"and it seemed +hardly worth talking about; but you'd have thought +it was a hundred."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps it seemed a large amount to him," +ventured Billie.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps," admitted Don Esteban. "But be that +as it may, I should like to see the man again, and +especially would I like to know where he got that +old dollar."</p> + +<p>"Why?"</p> + +<p>"Because it may have come out of that box."</p> + +<p>"Well, yes," said Donald, with a shake of his +head, "it might have; but how could the mountebank +have gotten the box?"</p> + +<p>"That is the mystery," was Don Esteban's reply.</p> + +<p>"And how do you wish us to help you?" asked<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203" href="#Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span> +Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Why," explained the banker, "I asked Gen. Funston +to find the mountebank for me. He said you +boys would do better than any one else."</p> + +<p>"But why us? Why not a Mexican policeman?"</p> + +<p>"Because the mountebank was an American. He +may even have been a soldier and have hidden himself +among your men."</p> + +<p>"Oh, he was an American, was he?" laughed Donald. +"Then I believe we can put our finger on him +with ease. But the man we have in mind always +carried with him an ape."</p> + +<p>"Then it may not be the same," replied Don Esteban, +"for this one had no ape with him either +time."</p> + +<p>"It certainly does look like a mystery," was Adrian's +comment. "Where is the vault from which +the box was taken?"</p> + +<p>"On the other side of the patio."</p> + +<p>"May we examine it?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly. I'll show it to you now."</p> + +<p>Don Esteban led the way downstairs and across +the patio. Opening the rear door of the bank, he +escorted them within and closed the door.</p> + +<p>Passing behind the counter, he opened the iron +door of the vault, disclosing within a good-sized +chamber, in the rear of which was set the great +steel safe, locked with a time lock.</p> + +<p>"There," explained Don Esteban, pointing to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204" href="#Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span> +an upper shelf, "is where the box stood."</p> + +<p>"Oh, it was not a large box, then!" said Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no! Not more than eight or nine inches +cube."</p> + +<p>The boy examined the vault carefully by the +light of a gas jet.</p> + +<p>"There seems no way that any one could have +entered except by the door," said Donald.</p> + +<p>"None whatever!"</p> + +<p>"You are sure there is no opening in the ceiling?"</p> + +<p>"Absolutely."</p> + +<p>Don Esteban led the boys out and locked the +door of the vault.</p> + +<p>"Well," declared Donald as they came out into +the patio after finishing their inspection, not only +of the vault but of the rest of the office, "I guess +we had better go home and study over the matter +a little. I should not be surprised if we could +put our hands upon the mountebank with very little +trouble; but I feel sure he had nothing to do with +the disappearance of the box."</p> + +<p>"I wish I could feel that way," said Adrian +after they were out of hearing of Don Esteban. "I +have never quite trusted Strong. There is something +strange about him."</p> + +<p>"Yes, he is a bit queer; but how on earth could +he have stolen the box if he did not even go behind +the counter?"</p> + +<p>"He couldn't; but still I mistrust him."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205" href="#Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p> + +<p>"I wonder where Ambrosio was all this time?" +mused Billie.</p> + +<p>"Tied up at home, most likely. An American +among Americans would hardly feel like traveling +around with a hand organ and a monkey," was +Don's emphatic reply.</p> + +<p>Upon arriving at Santiago's residence they were +told that Strong had been there earlier in the +evening and seemed much disappointed at not finding +them at home.</p> + +<p>"Did he leave any word?" asked Billie of the +portero.</p> + +<p>"None, señor; but Donna Lucia would like to see +you in the library."</p> + +<p>"What is the matter? Is Santiago worse?"</p> + +<p>"No, señor. He is sleeping quietly. I could not +say what she wants, but she seemed considerably +disturbed."</p> + +<p>"Better go up alone, Billie," said Donald. "If +we are needed, you can call us. We'll wait here +in the patio for a few minutes before we turn in."</p> + +<p>Billie ran up the stairs and tapped at the library +door. He was immediately admitted by Lucia and +the door was closed behind him.</p> + +<p>"It is getting to be a good deal of a family affair," +laughed Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Yes," replied Donald, with a grin. "I wonder +where Josie and Mr. Black are?"</p> + +<p>Adrian colored.</p> + +<p>"I don't know why you should have thought of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206" href="#Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span> +them!"</p> + +<p>"Oh," replied Donald nonchalantly, "speaking of +family affairs naturally reminded me that you——"</p> + +<p>"Oh, Don!" came Billie's voice, breaking in upon +the conversation.</p> + +<p>"Yes. What is it?"</p> + +<p>"Come up here, the both of you! Quick!"</p> + +<p>The boys ran up the stairs two steps at a time.</p> + +<p>"In here," and Billie held the library door open. +"I've something I want to show you."</p> + +<p>He led the way to the table, and there, under +the glow of the lamp, stood a brass-bound box +about eight or nine inches cube.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>CHAPTER XXV.</h2> + +<h3>DONALD IS KIDNAPED.</h3> + + +<p>"Great Scott!" was the spontaneous exclamation +of both the newcomers. "Where did it come +from?"</p> + +<p>"You tell," replied Billie. "Lucia says it was +not here an hour ago. Neither has any one been +in the room so far as she knows."</p> + +<p>"Has she been here all the time?" asked Adrian.</p> + +<p>"No, she was with Josie in her room for a time; +but the door into the patio was locked."</p> + +<p>"Some one might have come in through the window."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207" href="#Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span></p> + +<p>"A fat chance, isn't there!" laughed Billie, pointing +to the only window in the room which was protected +with long and heavy iron bars, set so closely +together that a child would have had trouble in +squeezing through—much less a man.</p> + +<p>"Does look a little difficult," replied Adrian.</p> + +<p>"Worse than difficult. Impossible," was Donald's +comment.</p> + +<p>"Did you hear any noise?" asked Billie of Lucia.</p> + +<p>"None whatever."</p> + +<p>"And you have never seen the box before?"</p> + +<p>Lucia wrinkled her brows and thought deeply.</p> + +<p>"Do you know," she finally said, "I have a sort +of a dim recollection that, away back in my childhood +somewhere, I have seen it or one just like +it."</p> + +<p>"Away back in your childhood," laughed Donald, +"couldn't have been so very far, Señorita."</p> + +<p>Lucia made a little grimace.</p> + +<p>"I'm nearly seventeen," she said.</p> + +<p>"Botheration!" said Billie. "We are not here to +discuss ages, but to find out how this box came here. +I have no doubt that Lucia has seen many similar +boxes in her time."</p> + +<p>"Well," asked Donald, somewhat nettled, "what +do you propose to do?"</p> + +<p>"In the first place, I want to search the house."</p> + +<p>"That's a good idea," declared Adrian. "Donna<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208" href="#Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span> +Lucia, will you lead the way?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly. Right this way; but don't go into +father's room. I know there is no one in there. +One of the servants has been with him every minute +of the time."</p> + +<p>Headed by Lucia, the boys explored the house +from top to bottom, but not a sign of any one +could they find. So far as they could determine, +the box must have come in of its own self.</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you one thing we can and must do," +said Billie, after they had returned to the library. +"We must keep a watch in this room to-night. +Whoever put the box here may return."</p> + +<p>"Right!" from Don. "You do have occasional +lucid intervals, Billie."</p> + +<p>Billie grinned, but made no reply.</p> + +<p>"I think we may all stay here for a few hours," +suggested Lucia. "Father is so much better that +I think we may have a little music. I will play +some accompaniments on the guitar and Josie can +sing."</p> + +<p>"That will seem a good deal like being back in +the States," declared Adrian. "With the Stars and +Stripes flying over my head, a brigade of American +troops on guard and an American girl singing, +I can almost forget I am on Mexican soil."</p> + +<p>"How about the accompanist?" queried Billie.</p> + +<p>"Oh!" laughed Adrian, "we're quite willing to +adopt her. Hey, Donald?"</p> + +<p>"Don't ask me, Ad. Ask Billie."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209" href="#Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span></p> + +<p>"I am sure we could do no better," was Billie's +gallant reply.</p> + +<p>Lucia's suggestion was carried out and for a +couple of hours there was a merry little party under +Santiago's hospitable roof. Even the mysterious +box was forgotten and the young people were +giving themselves up to a jolly good time, when suddenly +there came a scream which caused every one +to turn their eyes toward the room in which the +sick man was supposed to be lying.</p> + +<p>But there in the doorway he stood, his long night +robe reaching nearly to the floor and his thin black +hair standing almost on end.</p> + +<p>"Father!" cried Lucia, rushing toward him +"What is it?"</p> + +<p>He waved her off, but made no reply, while with +his long bony finger he pointed at the brass-bound +box.</p> + +<p>"Where did it come from?" he asked in a shrill, +querulous tone. "Who brought back my secret +casket?"</p> + +<p>"Yours?" came from every one in the room.</p> + +<p>"Yes! Mine! Mine!!" he almost screamed.</p> + +<p>"He's raving!" cried Josie. "Can't some one do +something for him?"</p> + +<p>"No," he replied, and his voice became more +calm, "I am not raving. I know whereof I speak. +Quick! Let me look within it to see that all is +safe."</p> + +<p>"It is locked, Father," said Lucia, coming to his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210" href="#Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span> +side, "and we have no key."</p> + +<p>"I can unlock it," he cried. "I can unlock it. +Give it to me. Give it to me."</p> + +<p>He staggered forward and seized the box in +his hands. For several seconds he fumbled with +it, turning it first upon one side and then upon another, +and at last raised the lid. He thrust in his +hand and then stopped as one stupefied.</p> + +<p>"Empty! Empty!" he gasped in an almost audible +whisper. "The plan of Montezuma's mine is +gone! Gone!!"</p> + +<p>A moment he stood and gazed around upon the +faces of those in the room and then collapsed upon +the floor.</p> + +<p>Quickly the boys picked him up and carried him +to his bed and the attending physician was summoned.</p> + +<p>Billie picked up the box and examined it curiously.</p> + +<p>"I wonder how he opened it?" he mused. "There +must be some sort of a spring somewhere."</p> + +<p>He felt the box all over, but could find nothing. +Then he closed it and set it upon the table. A +moment later Donald picked it up and tried to open +it, but it was locked fast.</p> + +<p>"Nothing but mysteries," he said. "I'm getting +tired of them. But before anything else happens, +I'm going around and notify Don Esteban that the +box is here."</p> + +<p>"I'll go with you," said Adrian.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211" href="#Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span></p> + +<p>"No, you'd better stay here. I'll take a mozo +with me."</p> + +<p>He ran hastily down the stairs and a minute later +the boys heard the gate close behind him.</p> + +<p>"I guess this is the quickest way," thought Donald +as he gained the sidewalk. "I'll not bother with +a mozo. With American soldiers on guard and my +automatic in my pocket, I have nothing to fear."</p> + +<p>A couple of minutes later he was ringing the bell +at Don Esteban's house. He was hastily admitted +and at once conducted to that gentleman's presence, +where he narrated hastily what had occurred +at the other house.</p> + +<p>"Who is this old man?" Don Esteban asked of +Donald.</p> + +<p>Donald explained as best he could.</p> + +<p>"Which is mighty little," he declared when he +had finished. "He is the greatest mystery we have +ever encountered. There is no doubt that he is +an Indian, but he speaks English like an Englishman."</p> + +<p>"I must go and see him at once," declared Don +Esteban, rising.</p> + +<p>"I don't think you can, sir, to-night. I don't +think the physician would permit it."</p> + +<p>"Well, then, the first thing in the morning. I +thank you, young sir. Won't you have a glass of +wine before you go?"</p> + +<p>"No, I think not," replied Donald. "I've never<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212" href="#Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span> +acquired that Mexican habit yet. Good night, sir."</p> + +<p>He left the house feeling greatly relieved that he +had reported the finding of the box and walked +slowly along whistling merrily. As he turned off +the street upon which Don Esteban lived he heard +soft footsteps behind him and turned hastily.</p> + +<p>But he was too late.</p> + +<p>Before he could see who it was, or ere he could +cry out, a cloak was thrown over his head and he +was picked up and carried away bodily.</p> + +<p>Donald was not the boy to give in without a +struggle, but kick and squirm as he might, he could +not free himself. Presently those who were carrying +him stopped and laid him on the sidewalk. Then +he heard a knock and a gate opened. Then he +was lifted up again and, almost before he knew it, +he was thrust into a little room—a closet it seemed—and +the door closed upon him.</p> + +<p>It was a hot night and the little place was stifling.</p> + +<p>"I'll smother if I don't get out of this," he muttered.</p> + +<p>Slowly he unwrapped the cloak from about his +head and at last freed himself completely from its +folds; but he secured little relief from the heat.</p> + +<p>The room could not have been more than six feet +square and it did not take Donald long to run his +hand clear around the wall.</p> + +<p>There was only one door, that through which he +had been thrust, and it was locked. He pounded +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213" href="#Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span> +upon it, but to no avail. Then he sat down to +think.</p> + +<p>"There is certainly no use to sweat myself to +death," he told himself. "I'd better be as quiet +as I can. There is air enough coming under the +door so I won't suffocate, so I might just as well +wait and see what will turn up."</p> + +<p>He ran his hand all over his automatic and found +it in good shape. Then he leaned back against the +wall opposite the door and waited. Ten minutes +later the door was suddenly yanked open, another +figure was bundled into the closet and the door +slammed shut, almost before Donald could think.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2> + +<h3>A PLOT AGAINST FUNSTON.</h3> + + +<p>A muttered imprecation was the only intimation +that the figure which had been so unceremoniously +bundled into the closet was alive.</p> + +<p>"Who are you?" asked Donald in Spanish.</p> + +<p>"Let me out of this," was the unsatisfactory response +in English.</p> + +<p>"Oh!" from Donald. "You are an American. +Well, keep still and I'll help you to get rid of the +blanket."</p> + +<p>He grabbed hold of the covering and the newcomer +was soon uncovered.</p> + +<p>"Now, then, who are you?" asked Donald again.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214" href="#Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span></p> + +<p>"I'll show you who I am if I get hold of you," +was the uncivil answer, and an arm shot out.</p> + +<p>"Now look here," said Donald, "if you don't stop +that I'll let daylight through you. We are in a +bad box and the only thing to do is to make the +best of it."</p> + +<p>"We?" exclaimed the newcomer. "Why do you +say we?"</p> + +<p>"Because I am a prisoner the same as you are. +Now, who are you?"</p> + +<p>"I'm Lieutenant Grimes of the general's staff. +Who are you?"</p> + +<p>"I am Donald Mackay, on a special mission for +Gen. Funston."</p> + +<p>"How did they get you?"</p> + +<p>"Kidnaped me on the street. How did they get +you?"</p> + +<p>"Same way. I had just left the general's quarters."</p> + +<p>"I can see that some one might want to capture +you, lieutenant, but I cannot see what they want +of me."</p> + +<p>"How long have you been here?" asked the lieutenant.</p> + +<p>"About half an hour. By the way, are you +armed?"</p> + +<p>"No; they took away my weapons. How about +you?"</p> + +<p>"I have my automatic. I'd have used it when +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215" href="#Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span> +you came in, only you were dumped in so suddenly."</p> + +<p>"What do you suppose the game is?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know; but we'll find out. I've been in +tighter places than this—but no hotter," after a +pause.</p> + +<p>"Have you tried to get out?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; but it was too hot work. The door seemed +pretty strong."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps the two of us might force it," suggested +Grimes. "I'm a pretty husky chap."</p> + +<p>"We might try," replied Donald. "The place is +so narrow we can get a good brace."</p> + +<p>They put their feet against the opposite wall +and pushed against the door.</p> + +<p>"We'll never make it that way," said the lieutenant. +"We'll have to throw ourselves at it."</p> + +<p>"Not much room for that, Lieutenant, but you +give the word and we'll have a try."</p> + +<p>Getting their bearings as well as they could in +the dark, they drew themselves back and then literally +threw themselves at the door. It gave way +with a snap and both fell to their feet on the outside.</p> + +<p>Quick as a flash they were on their feet, Donald +with his weapon ready for instant action.</p> + +<p>But there was no one in sight.</p> + +<p>"That's mighty funny!" exclaimed the lieutenant. +"Lock two strong men up in a place like that and +not guard it."</p> + +<p>"It's a mighty good thing for us they didn't,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216" href="#Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span> +laughed Donald. "I wonder where we are?"</p> + +<p>He glanced about the room which was dimly +lighted by a couple of lamps, fastened to the wall +by brackets. It was well—yes, elegantly furnished. +At one side of the room was the closet out of which +they had just emerged, while at the opposite side +were three doors. On a third side were two windows +and the fourth side was a plain wall.</p> + +<p>"Not a bad-looking place," observed the lieutenant.</p> + +<p>"Not at all," echoed Donald, "and there seem +plenty of means of exit."</p> + +<p>"Sure, my boy; and if it's all the same to you, +we'll go. The sooner I get back the quicker I'll +be able to start something in this direction. Come +on!"</p> + +<p>They crossed over to the doors and tried the first +one. It was locked. They tried the second and +it opened into another closet.</p> + +<p>"Three times and out," laughed Donald as he +took hold of the knob of the last door.</p> + +<p>It yielded to his touch and he opened it gently. +Then he quickly and quietly closed it.</p> + +<p>"What's up?" asked the lieutenant.</p> + +<p>Donald put his fingers to his lips.</p> + +<p>"How many?" queried Lieut. Grimes.</p> + +<p>"Three," was the whispered response. "Let's +hear what they have to say."</p> + +<p>He opened the door a crack, through which they +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217" href="#Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span> +could see three men seated at a table. One wore +the uniform of a Mexican officer, the other was +dressed in Mexican costume, while the third was +unquestionably an American, although they could +only see his back.</p> + +<p>"I have carried out my part of the agreement," +the American was saying, "and now I want my +money."</p> + +<p>"How do we know you have?" asked the officer.</p> + +<p>"Haven't I put Gen. Funston into your hands?"</p> + +<p>"We are not sure it is Funston," said the other.</p> + +<p>"Then bring him out and look at him. You +know the general when you see him, don't you?"</p> + +<p>"I think so, although I've never seen him but +once."</p> + +<p>"Well, that is he, all right," declared the American.</p> + +<p>Donald turned and looked at his companion. +Then he chuckled.</p> + +<p>The lieutenant said nothing, but stroked his whiskers +which he wore in exact imitation of his chief.</p> + +<p>"Lucky for the general," he whispered, and Donald +nodded his head that he understood.</p> + +<p>The two Mexicans exchanged a few words under +their breath which Donald could not hear and +then the officer took from his breast pocket a large +wallet, from which he counted out ten bank notes. +They were yellow backs and Donald was not at +all surprised when the officer said:</p> + +<p>"Here are ten one-thousand-dollar bills in American +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218" href="#Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span> +money. We believe you are telling us the +truth, as your words are corroborated by the men +who brought him here. But if you are playing +us false, we shall know how to reach you."</p> + +<p>The American shrugged his shoulders as he took +the bills, rolled them up nonchalantly and placed +them in his trousers pocket.</p> + +<p>"You can find me at the Hidalgo Hotel whenever +you want me," he said, "and now I must be +going."</p> + +<p>He arose from his seat, and as he did so, Donald +caught sight of his face. It was the mountebank, +Strong, but in his stylish clothing Don had +failed to recognize him.</p> + +<p>"Great Scott!" he muttered to himself, "the plot +thickens!"</p> + +<p>"What's that?" queried the lieutenant, who +caught the muttered exclamation.</p> + +<p>"Nothing much," replied Donald as the three men +walked toward a door in the farther end of the +room and he was enabled to speak without being +heard, "only that is the man I'm looking for. Let's +get out of the window and see if we can't head +him off."</p> + +<p>He closed the door and turned the key which he +had quietly taken from the other side.</p> + +<p>The windows were open and they looked out. +They were on the side of the house overlooking a +good-sized lawn.</p> + +<p>"That's the reason they are not barred," explained +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219" href="#Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span> +Donald. "Had they been front windows, +we might as well have been in jail. You go first +and I'll cover the retreat."</p> + +<p>Lieut. Grimes sprang into the window and lowered +himself to the ground, just as a hand turned +the knob.</p> + +<p>"Good-bye!" muttered Donald. "Sorry I can't +wait to receive you," and he followed the lieutenant.</p> + +<p>On the ground they could hear the men trying +to open the door and as they sped across the lawn +toward a high brick wall, the door gave way with +a crash and they could hear surprised voices.</p> + +<p>"They have discovered our wreckage!" cried +Donald. "Over the wall you go!"</p> + +<p>"You first this time," said the lieutenant.</p> + +<p>"No, you first. I can boost you up, but I couldn't +pull you. You can pull me."</p> + +<p>The argument was good and the lieutenant acted +upon it.</p> + +<p>A minute later he was on top of the wall.</p> + +<p>"Great Cæsar!" he exclaimed. "There's nothing +under me but water."</p> + +<p>"Never mind that," was the response. "Haul me +up."</p> + +<p>The lieutenant leaned down and gave the lad a +hand.</p> + +<p>"Here we are," he said a minute later. "We +can't jump in, for there is no knowing where we +are."</p> + +<p>"Sure," from Donald. "Let's run along the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220" href="#Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span> +wall."</p> + +<p>This they did for about a hundred yards and +then the wall ended abruptly against what appeared +to be an abutment.</p> + +<p>"We must act quickly," declared Donald. "They +think you are Funston and won't hurt you. Keep +up the deception. I'm going to swim for it. I'll +have help here just as quick as I can. So long," +and, throwing off his coat, he jumped into the +water some twenty feet below.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2> + +<h3>THE ADMIRAL TO THE RESCUE.</h3> + + +<p>When Donald struck the water he allowed himself +to go clear to the bottom, as he wanted to find +out just about how deep it was.</p> + +<p>It was, as he had expected, about the depth of +the water in the harbor and he made up his mind +that he could not be far from some of the wharves +that constitute the water front.</p> + +<p>When he came to the surface, he struck out away +from the wall, and by the light of the moon was +soon able to see the vessels in the offing. He could +also see that he was well north of the principal +docks.</p> + +<p>"I guess I'll land at the first place that offers," +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221" href="#Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span> +he thought, "and find my way to headquarters from +there."</p> + +<p>He struck out lustily, but had not been swimming +more than a couple of minutes, when he heard the +sharp exhaust of a gasoline launch.</p> + +<p>Realizing that it must be an American craft, he +shouted at the top of his voice.</p> + +<p>At first there was no response, but as the boat +came nearer and he shouted even more loudly, a +friendly hail came over the waters.</p> + +<p>"Where are you?" came the voice as the boat +came to a stop.</p> + +<p>"Here, to your port side," he replied.</p> + +<p>The launch was started again slowly and Donald +was soon able to make himself visible.</p> + +<p>"Who are you?" was the first question pumped +at him by the officer in command.</p> + +<p>"Special messenger for Gen. Funston," was the +response.</p> + +<p>"Where is your uniform?"</p> + +<p>"I'm not a soldier. I am a civilian."</p> + +<p>"A likely story," snapped the officer, who chanced +to be an ensign.</p> + +<p>"I can't help how likely it is," snapped Donald +in return. "It's true, and I want to be put ashore +as quickly as possible. I have an important message +and the safety of one of his staff is involved. +There is also a plot on foot to capture the general +himself."</p> + +<p>"Nonsense! And besides, I can't put you ashore.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222" href="#Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span> +I am carrying a message to Admiral Fletcher."</p> + +<p>"But my business is important," insisted Donald.</p> + +<p>"So is mine," declared the ensign.</p> + +<p>He ordered his launch full speed ahead in the +direction of the flagship.</p> + +<p>"It's pretty tough," commented Donald, "but I'll +prove I am right when I get to the ship."</p> + +<p>"I hope so," was the reply. "I haven't anything +against you and you may be telling the truth, but +I can't take any chances."</p> + +<p>Fifteen minutes later they drew up beside the +flagship.</p> + +<p>"Up you go," said the ensign, motioning Donald +up the ladder. "I'll present you to the officer of +the deck," which he quickly did.</p> + +<p>"Here's a man I picked up in the water, sir, who +says he has a message for Gen. Funston, but I +had no time to put him ashore."</p> + +<p>"Looks more like a boy than a man," replied the +officer. Then to Donald: "What's this about you +having a message for Gen. Funston?"</p> + +<p>Donald repeated what he had told the ensign.</p> + +<p>"What's that?" asked another officer, coming forward +out of the shadow of the after turret.</p> + +<p>The first officer saluted.</p> + +<p>"Tell the Admiral your story, my lad," he said.</p> + +<p>Again Donald repeated his story, this time going +more into detail.</p> + +<p>"Come with me," ordered the Admiral, and he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223" href="#Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span> +led the way to the wireless operator.</p> + +<p>"Get into communication with Gen. Funston at +once," was the admiral's order.</p> + +<p>"Here he is, sir," was the report a couple of +minutes later.</p> + +<p>"Ask him if he has three American boys on a +special mission."</p> + +<p>The answer came back promptly that he had.</p> + +<p>"Ask him if Lieut. Grimes is missing."</p> + +<p>Again came back the answer that he was.</p> + +<p>"Tell the general that we have one of the lads +on the <i>Arkansas</i>, and that he has had a strange adventure. +Tell him I will send the lad ashore immediately."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir," said Donald. "I knew some +one would know what to do."</p> + +<p>"You're a brave lad," was the Admiral's comment, +"and I shall be glad to hear the end of the +adventure. You and your companions must come +out and dine with us as soon as your mission is +ended."</p> + +<p>Donald thanked him for his kindness and hastened +to the launch which was to take him back.</p> + +<p>Twenty minutes later he stood before Gen. +Funston.</p> + +<p>"You seem to have been in the water," was the +general's first words.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," laughed Donald. "I jumped from a +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224" href="#Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span> +wall north of town, leaving Lieut. Grimes on top +of it."</p> + +<p>"What! Lieut. Grimes on top of a wall? How +did he get there?"</p> + +<p>"He was kidnapped, sir! It was a case of mistaken +identity!"</p> + +<p>"Mistaken identity! I don't understand!"</p> + +<p>"They took him for you, sir, because his beard +is trimmed like yours."</p> + +<p>The general smiled grimly.</p> + +<p>"Think I shall have all my staff officers do the +same," he commented. Then more seriously: "Can +you lead us to the house?"</p> + +<p>"I'm not sure about the house; but I can take +you to the stone wall from which I jumped. That +ought to guide us to the house."</p> + +<p>"Right," said the general.</p> + +<p>He called another member of his staff and gave +a few brief orders.</p> + +<p>In another ten minutes two launches loaded with +regulars and armed with a rapid-fire gun in each, +steamed swiftly up the harbor.</p> + +<p>"There's the wall!" exclaimed Donald a few minutes +later, "and there's where I jumped," pointing +to a spot near the abutment.</p> + +<p>The officer in command headed the boats for +the shore.</p> + +<p>"It is not only a question of freeing Lieut. +Grimes," said the officer, "but we also want to capture +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225" href="#Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span> +the conspirators. This is a much more serious +matter than Gen. Funston is willing to admit."</p> + +<p>"Then if you will take my suggestion, sir," said +Donald modestly, "I would let a few soldiers go +over the wall as well as entering the front of the +house."</p> + +<p>The officer looked up twenty feet. The wall was +absolutely perpendicular and as smooth as the side +of a house.</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid none of my men can scale it," he +said.</p> + +<p>"Can't we throw a grapnel over it, sir?"</p> + +<p>"We might; but it would be a very slight hold."</p> + +<p>"If you can make it hold at all," laughed Donald, +"I'm willing to make the effort. At best I +can only fall back into the water."</p> + +<p>"True," declared the officer. "We'll try it."</p> + +<p>A grapnel was tied to a long line, such as is used +in tying the launch to the shore, and after several +vain attempts the grapnel caught in the top of +the wall.</p> + +<p>Donald sprang forward and tested it with his +weight and it held. Then, without another word, +he braced his feet against the wall and in almost +less time than it takes to write it, he was at the +top.</p> + +<p>"Do you see any one?" asked the officer from +below.</p> + +<p>"No, sir; but there is the sound of pacing footsteps +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226" href="#Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span> +on the walk that runs along the side of the +house."</p> + +<p>"Good! Now make fast the grapnel and we will +see if there are a dozen men here who can climb to +the top."</p> + +<p>The dozen were quickly found and they were soon +at the top of the wall. The officer finally decided +to add to their armament one of the rapid-firers.</p> + +<p>"If there is any resistance," he said, "we'll knock +the side of the house in."</p> + +<p>"What shall I do?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"You'd better come back into the boat. You +can help us to enter the house in front."</p> + +<p>Donald slid down the rope and the expedition +quickly made a landing. Silently, so as not to +alarm those within the house, the men took their +way to the front of the mansion, which was at once +recognized as one of the finest in Vera Cruz.</p> + +<p>"Do you know who lives here?" asked the officer.</p> + +<p>"No, sir," replied Donald.</p> + +<p>"I was told it was the residence of one of Huerta's +generals," said a soldier. "It was pointed out +to me the first day we landed."</p> + +<p>"Good!" from the officer. "I shall now have +no compunction about entering the place."</p> + +<p>With Donald and a couple of soldiers, the officer +approached the door and gave a vigorous knock.</p> + +<p>There was no response and he knocked again.</p> + +<p>"Who is there?" finally came a voice, evidently +a mozo.</p> + +<p>"An American officer. Open the door in the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227" href="#Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span> +name of the law."</p> + +<p>There was a still further delay and then another +voice asked: "How do we know it is an officer?"</p> + +<p>"Open and find out, before I force the door."</p> + +<p>There was a still further delay.</p> + +<p>"It's a good thing we guarded the rear," said +Donald. "They are evidently trying to gain time +to spirit Lieut. Grimes away, thinking it is Gen. +Funston."</p> + +<p>"True," said the officer. "We'll wait no longer. +Corporal, force the door!"</p> + +<p>The corporal placed a small stick of dynamite +under the door and fixed a fuse.</p> + +<p>"Step back a little," he said.</p> + +<p>All obeyed, when at the instant the door was +thrown open and a hand, in which was an automatic +revolver, was thrust out, directly in the face +of the officer.</p> + +<p>But quick as was the action, Donald was not +taken off his guard.</p> + +<p>With a single swift blow he struck the weapon +into the air.</p> + +<p>At the same instant a fusillade from the rear +of the house gave evidence that the men stationed +upon the wall had done their work.</p> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<div><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228" href="#Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></div> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII.</h2> + +<h3>BILLIE MAKES A DISCOVERY.</h3> + + +<p>Having released Lieut. Grimes and taken the +plotters into custody, the next task was to locate +Strong, the mountebank, and to solve the mystery +of the box.</p> + +<p>Outside the one exclamation which Donald had +uttered when he recognized Strong as the third of +the plotters, he had not betrayed his secret to any +one, and when Lieut. Grimes told his story to Gen. +Funston and described the American, Donald +vouchsafed no information which might help to +apprehend him.</p> + +<p>"The plotter told the Mexicans that he could be +found at the Hidalgo Hotel whenever he was +wanted," explained Lieut. Grimes. "While he may +have lied about it, I think we should send a force +and try to locate him."</p> + +<p>The advice was acted upon and a corporal and +four soldiers sent to the hotel, but to no purpose. +No such man was known there.</p> + +<p>"What was the use of my saying anything about +it?" asked Donald of the other two boys when +he returned to Santiago's house and narrated to +them the story of his evening's adventure. "I was +sure he was not there and I have no idea where he +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229" href="#Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span> +is; but we'll find him and the ten thousand dollars +given him by the Mexicans for his treachery."</p> + +<p>"That's right, Don," was Billie's comment. "If +you can get that money and I can get my ten thousand +pounds, this trip won't be so bad."</p> + +<p>"In the meantime," said Adrian, "I propose that +some of us go to bed. It's nearly two o'clock and +there is mighty little chance that any one will try +to steal the box again."</p> + +<p>"I think you are right," said Billie. "We might +as well all go. The doctor is still with Santiago and +will stay until he is better. It isn't at all likely +that any one will try to come into this room while +he is here."</p> + +<p>Billie voiced the unanimous opinion, and a few +minutes later the young people had all sought their +beds, leaving instructions with the physician and +the servants that they were to be called if any change +for the worse occurred in Santiago's condition.</p> + +<p>It was probably two hours later, just about daylight, +that the entire household was awakened by +a terrible shriek and one of the maids rushed out +into the patio.</p> + +<p>The boys came to their feet with a bound and +hurried from their room on the ground floor, while +the others appeared at the head of the stairs.</p> + +<p>"What is it?" asked Donald as soon as he could +quiet the shrieking maid. "What are you yelling +about?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, señor!" she cried. "I have seen the devil."</p> + +<p>"Nonsense," laughed the boy. "You had a nightmare."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230" href="#Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span></p> + +<p>"No, señor. It was the devil. He had horns and +a tail and he had the little box under his arm. I +saw him!"</p> + +<p>"The box!" cried Billie. "Quick, Lucia, look and +see if the box is gone!"</p> + +<p>The girl rushed back into the library and she, too, +gave a shriek.</p> + +<p>"It's gone!" she cried. "It's gone!"</p> + +<p>The boys sprang up the stairs three at a time +and into the library. Lucia was right. The box +was gone.</p> + +<p>"It must be the old boy, sure enough," said Billie, +"or at least one of his imps." Then to the maid: +"How did he get in?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know, señor. I only saw him go out. +He went right through the door without opening +it."</p> + +<p>"Nonsense!" from Donald. "His Satanic majesty +might go through a solid door, but the box +wouldn't. There is some other explanation."</p> + +<p>"But who could it be?" queried Lucia in great +fear.</p> + +<p>"Some one who knows the house," declared +Adrian emphatically. "He may have put on some +masquerade costume just to frighten these superstitious +servants in case he was discovered."</p> + +<p>"I believe Ad is right," agreed Donald. "What +do you think, Billie?"</p> + +<p>"Maybe, Don; but I have a theory of my own.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231" href="#Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span> +If I am right, I can work it better if I tell no one."</p> + +<p>At this moment the physician entered the room.</p> + +<p>"How is Santiago?" asked Donald.</p> + +<p>"Better! He has gone to sleep, and if he is not +disturbed, I expect him to be greatly improved when +he awakens. I should not be surprised if this +were the turning point in his illness."</p> + +<p>"Then we had all better go down on to the first +floor and leave him alone with his nurses."</p> + +<p>"I'd give a good deal to know where Strong is," +remarked Donald as they were drinking their coffee +an hour later.</p> + +<p>"So would I," declared Billie. "I believe, if we +can find him, we can solve this entire mystery."</p> + +<p>"As soon as we finish our coffee," suggested Donald, +"let's get busy and find him. He can't be far."</p> + +<p>"That's right," said Adrian. "We'll round him +up in short order. Hey, Billie?"</p> + +<p>"We ought to; but I'll tell you what. You fellows +go out and see if you can get a line on him, +and I'll hang round the house to see that the devil +doesn't come and steal the rest of the house."</p> + +<p>"Especially Lucia," laughed Donald.</p> + +<p>"That's all right," was the good-natured reply; +"but I have an idea that the devil and Strong may +have something in common."</p> + +<p>"You don't think it was Strong who came and +took the box, do you?" queried Adrian.</p> + +<p>"I don't know just what I do think, Ad; but +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232" href="#Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span> +I'm going to do a little detective work and I want +to give the impression that we are all out. When +you fellows go out, don't say anything that would +cause any one in hiding to think we are not all +going out together. Do you sabe?"</p> + +<p>"Sure. I hope you'll get a clue if we do not."</p> + +<p>When the others had gone, Billie sat quietly in +his room for a long time. He could easily have +gone to sleep, as he had had only a couple of hours' +rest, but he made up his mind that he would not +be caught napping again if anything should happen.</p> + +<p>But nothing happened.</p> + +<p>The minutes passed into hours and it was rapidly +nearing noon when Billie made up his mind that +it was a bad job.</p> + +<p>"We had our chance at daylight," he muttered, +"and now we will not get another. Whoever is +after the box, has it and is not going to take any +further chance of being caught."</p> + +<p>He went out into the patio and looked up at the +sun. It was almost in the zenith and the air was +stifling.</p> + +<p>"Any one would be a fool to go out at this time +of day," he mused. "I wonder where the fellows +are?"</p> + +<p>He stepped back under the shade of the arcade +that extended clear around the patio and threw +himself onto a stone seat.</p> + +<p>"Queer old place," he thought, "and a queer old +seat."</p> + +<p>He laid his hand on one of the carved arms and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233" href="#Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span> +mechanically toyed with an eagle's head that formed +one of the decorations. To his surprise the head +turned in his hand.</p> + +<p>"I hope I haven't broken it," he said as he examined +it more closely.</p> + +<p>It was clearly made to revolve and so he turned +it clear around, when of a sudden the arm of the +seat fell apart and the bottom collapsed, disclosing +to Billie's astonished eyes a pair of stairs.</p> + +<p>Almost thrown to the pavement by the giving +way of the seat, Billie picked himself up and looked +about to see if he were observed.</p> + +<p>There was no one in sight and he stooped down +and examined the stairs carefully. Then he +straightened up and rubbed his chin as a sudden +gleam of intelligence passed through his brain.</p> + +<p>"So," he muttered, "this is why Santiago dwells +in a house that is directly back of the banker's. +That was his box and he is the strange man who +made the million-dollar deposit in Don Esteban's +bank."</p> + +<p>Then he stopped and pondered.</p> + +<p>"But who stole the box? Not Santiago, for he +has not left his room for days. If it was Strong, +he must have entered the bank from some direction +other than this. I don't understand, but I'm going +to make some further investigation."</p> + +<p>He reëntered his room, buckled on his automatic +and took from his suit case—which, by the way, he +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234" href="#Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span> +had located at the railway station along with that +of his companions after the occupation of the city +by the marines—his electric torch. Then he went +out and descended the stairs, which he discovered +were twenty-four in number.</p> + +<p>Reaching the bottom he found himself upon a +landing some six or eight feet square, from the +opposite side of which another flight of stairs +ascended.</p> + +<p>"I reckon I better see where they lead to," was +his comment as he slowly began their ascent.</p> + +<p>After going up eighteen stairs his head touched +the floor above. He counted the remaining steps +by the light of his torch and found that there were +six more. This would make the floor over his head +on an exact level with the floor of Santiago's +house.</p> + +<p>"It's just as I expected," he muttered. "If I can +get through this floor, I shall find myself in Don +Esteban's residence—somewhere. But just where? +That's the question."</p> + +<p>He pushed upon the stone above his head, but +it refused to move. Then he held up his torch +and examined the ceiling carefully. Whatever the +method by which the stones could be moved, it +was carefully concealed.</p> + +<p>Much chagrined, Billie at length decided to retrace +his steps and await the coming of his companions. +He reached the landing and crossed over +to the steps by which he had descended.</p> + +<p>Glancing up, he uttered an exclamation of surprise,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235" href="#Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> +for there at the opening and peering down +the stairs was Ambrosio, the ape.</p> + +<p>With a cry of recognition the simian started to +descend the stairs, but at a noise from above he +hesitated and then sprang back and out of sight.</p> + +<p>An instant later the opening was closed and Billie +was left in the darkness, except for the light +of his torch.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXIX.</h2> + +<h3>THE MYSTERY DEEPENS.</h3> + + +<p>While Billie was making his discoveries Donald +and Adrian had also been busy.</p> + +<p>When they left the house, at Donald's suggestion, +they went first to the bank and told Don Esteban +about the disappearance of the box and what +the maid had seen. He was much disappointed until +it was explained to him that they also had another +clue.</p> + +<p>"We shall spend our time in the slums," said Donald, +"while our chum keeps watch at the house. We +feel sure that between us we shall solve the mystery."</p> + +<p>"I hope so," was Don Esteban's response. "Do +you think I might be able to see this man Santiago?"</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid not, sir! The doctor wants him to +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236" href="#Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> +sleep as long as he can. We will let you know +later in the day."</p> + +<p>Leaving Don Esteban, the boys started for the +plaza, intending to play the part of sightseers and +visit every place in which a mountebank might reasonably +expect to go. They felt certain that Strong +would keep away from the more aristocratic places.</p> + +<p>Keeping their eyes open and ever on the alert, +they wandered about the streets and into many public +places, but up to eleven o'clock had made no +discovery. Then they entered a cantina for breakfast, +purposely choosing one that was little frequented +by Americans.</p> + +<p>Seating themselves at a table in one corner where +they could see without being seen, the boys ordered +a hearty breakfast and then turned their +attention to the others in the place.</p> + +<p>At the table nearest them were three men of +ordinary appearance, busy with their meal. Beyond +them was an American soldier, who seemed to have +dropped in out of curiosity. He was paying very +little attention to his meal, but was eyeing a young +woman who was seated behind the cash counter.</p> + +<p>On the other side of the room, and partially hidden +from our boys by the cash counter, was another +man, smoking, and evidently waiting for +some one. He kept his eye on the door and every +once in a while glanced nervously at his watch.</p> + +<p>"Not much going on in here," said Donald in +English.</p> + +<p>"No; but we are a little early. There may be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237" href="#Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span> +more in before we finish our breakfast."</p> + +<p>It was a true prediction, for within the next +five minutes as many more persons entered and disposed +themselves around the various tables. Then +the boys' breakfast was served and for a few minutes +they were more absorbed in the food than +in the guests.</p> + +<p>As Donald raised his eyes for a moment, however, +he caught sight of a man talking to the one +sitting back of the cash counter. They were evidently +arguing about something in an undertone +and a minute later the newcomer took a seat with +his back to the boys.</p> + +<p>"Look!" was Donald's smothered exclamation, +"over there by the cashier. Isn't that our man?"</p> + +<p>Adrian raised his eyes and gazed hard at the +back of the man's head.</p> + +<p>"I could tell better if he would remove his hat. +It does look like him, but he has disguised himself +some way."</p> + +<p>"Sure," laughed Donald. "That's part of his +trade; but I'm dead sure it is Strong."</p> + +<p>"What had we better do?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know. He'll recognize us the minute he +sees us. If he is keeping away from us, he will +leave. If he is not, he may come over and speak +to us. There is no reason why he should not, so far +as he knows."</p> + +<p>"How would it do to make ourselves visible?"</p> + +<p>"I hardly know." Then after a pause: "I'll tell<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238" href="#Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span> +you what. As soon as we finish we'll go out, as +though we did not see him, but we will be sure to +make enough commotion to attract his attention. +Then we'll station ourselves where we can see him +as he comes out."</p> + +<p>"That's all right, Don; but suppose he doesn't +come out?"</p> + +<p>Donald scratched his head.</p> + +<p>"Oh!" he exclaimed, "I knew I had a thought +back of that. When he sees us, if he is not trying +to avoid us, he will speak to us. If he does not +speak to us, we will know there is something wrong +and take immediate steps to have him arrested."</p> + +<p>"But he may escape."</p> + +<p>"How can he?"</p> + +<p>"I suppose he could go out through the kitchen +if he had to," was the ready reply.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I suppose he could. We must do better +than that."</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you," said Adrian. "I'll go over and +speak to that soldier in English. If it is Strong, he +will hear me and will involuntarily make some move. +If he wants to make himself known, he will. If +he does not do so, we will simply sit here till he +goes out and then shadow him."</p> + +<p>"That sounds good. Go over and say 'Howdy' +to the soldier."</p> + +<p>Adrian arose from his seat and stepped over to +the soldier.</p> + +<p>"Hello, partner!" was his somewhat noisy greeting.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239" href="#Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span> +"Won't you come over to our table?"</p> + +<p>"Why, sure, neighbor! I was just thinking that +I was getting mighty lonesome."</p> + +<p>He arose from his chair and took a seat beside +Donald, who had been observing Strong closely. +There could be no doubt that he had been attracted +by Adrian's voice, but he gave no intimation that +he knew the boys.</p> + +<p>"Glad to see you," said Donald, without taking +his eyes from his man. "Won't you have another +cup of coffee?"</p> + +<p>"Bet your life, neighbor!" Then as he lighted +a fresh cigarette: "Smoke?"</p> + +<p>"Never learned!" laughed Donald. "Seems +mighty funny down here, doesn't it?"</p> + +<p>"Sure does; but you're just as well off without it. +Live here?"</p> + +<p>"No," replied Adrian; "we were on our way +home and got stuck!"</p> + +<p>"What's the matter?" asked the soldier, with +much concern. "Out of coin?"</p> + +<p>"We haven't much; but Gen. Funston has promised +to find us passage home in a few days. Our +friend saw him early this morning," this latter +remark expressly for Strong's ears.</p> + +<p>"If he told you he'd do it, he will," said the soldier. +"You can bet on him every time."</p> + +<p>It was very evident from Strong's actions that +he was taking in every word of the conversation, +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240" href="#Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span> +which was in English and in an unusually loud +voice. He pretended to eat, then leaned over and +said something to his companion, and a minute +later arose from the table and hastily quitted the +place.</p> + +<p>But the boys were not to be fooled. They sprang +from the table and hastily followed, Donald throwing +a greenback to the cashier which more than +doubly paid the bill.</p> + +<p>Their sudden action did not escape the soldier, +who, attributing it to another cause, also hastily +quitted the cantina.</p> + +<p>As the boys emerged into the street, they saw +Strong hastening away in the direction of the custom +house.</p> + +<p>"Going to lose himself in the crowd," said Donald. +"Don't let him get out of your sight."</p> + +<p>"What's the matter?" asked the soldier, running +to catch up with the boys. "Ugly greasers?"</p> + +<p>"No," replied Donald, "we're shadowing a man +who is wanted by Gen. Funston. That's him," +pointing; "keep your eye on him."</p> + +<p>"I thought you chaps had something on," laughed +the soldier. "You can bet on me!"</p> + +<p>Now that they approached nearer the center of +the business portion of the city, there were more +people on the street; but they were so near their +quarry that they easily kept him in sight. Only +once had he glanced back, but that was enough to +convince him that he was followed.</p> + +<p>"He's headed for somewhere," said Adrian. "He<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241" href="#Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span> +doesn't expect to get away from us simply by walking."</p> + +<p>"Right," agreed Donald. "There he goes into +the post office."</p> + +<p>"Yes," from Adrian, "and it has two doors. You +stop at the first one and I'll run to the other."</p> + +<p>He started on a run and the soldier followed +suit.</p> + +<p>The sight of a man running and a soldier following, +quickly attracted attention and pedestrians +began to stop and see what the matter might be. +In less than a minute a crowd had collected, among +them several soldiers, who quickly brought Adrian +to a halt.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter?" asked one. Then as the +soldier came up: "What are you chasing him for?"</p> + +<p>"I'm not chasing him," laughed the seeming pursuer. +"He and I are after another chap."</p> + +<p>The delay occasioned by this interference was +not great, but it was sufficient to allow Strong +to escape, had it not been for Donald. He had +seen the crowd gathering and, realizing what would +happen, ran around the other way, just in time to +see Strong disappearing around the corner of the +street on which the bank was located.</p> + +<p>Madly he dashed down the street and turned the +corner in time to see Strong enter the big gate +leading into the patio of Don Esteban's residence.</p> + +<p>Putting on more steam, a couple of minutes later +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242" href="#Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span> +Donald also dashed into the patio; but Strong was +nowhere to be seen.</p> + +<p>"He must be in the bank," muttered the boy, and +he quickly entered the door.</p> + +<p>But Strong had disappeared as completely as +though the earth had opened and swallowed him +up.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX"></a>CHAPTER XXX.</h2> + +<h3>THE MYSTERY SOLVED.</h3> + + +<p>When the opening at the head of the stairs had +closed upon Billie and he realized that he was shut +in a subterranean passage, for a minute his heart +sank within him.</p> + +<p>He had tried to find an opening at the top of +the opposite stairs and had failed, and he did not +know that he would have any better success in +trying to find a way to open the place through which +he had descended.</p> + +<p>"Nobody on earth knows that I am down here," +he thought, "and with Santiago sick and maybe +dying, no one on earth probably knows that there +is such a passage."</p> + +<p>But Billie was not the lad to sit down and cry. +He had been in tight places before and he had +an abiding faith in his own ability to do things. +Therefore, he called up his courage and slowly +mounted the stairs leading to Santiago's patio.</p> + +<p>At the top of the stairs he found himself confronted<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243" href="#Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span> +by exactly the same condition as he had +found on the opposite side.</p> + +<p>"But there is this difference," muttered Billie. "I +know that there must be some sort of a crack where +that slab fell back."</p> + +<p>He held the electric bull's-eye close to the stone +and scrutinized every spot.</p> + +<p>Not a single crack could he spy.</p> + +<p>Then he took out his big jack-knife and prodded +with it clear across the width of the stairway.</p> + +<p>There was nothing but solid stone.</p> + +<p>"Looks kind o' desperate," he told himself, "but +I have simply got to find an opening."</p> + +<p>Again he prodded the place over without result.</p> + +<p>"It's no use," he finally said to himself. "If I +am to get out of here, help will have to come from +somewhere outside. But how can it?"</p> + +<p>He sat down on the stairs and thought deeply.</p> + +<p>"If it is as I think," he mused, "these stairs have +been used recently. The very fact that Ambrosio +is prowling around here is proof that Strong must +have been here at some time. But where is +Strong?"</p> + +<p>He slid down several steps and threw the light +of his torch across to the opposite stairs.</p> + +<p>"Bang!" went something that sounded like a +falling stone.</p> + +<p>Billie sprang to his feet.</p> + +<p>"Click! Bang!" and down the opposite stairway<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244" href="#Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span> +streamed a ray of light.</p> + +<p>Billie shut off his electric torch and waited.</p> + +<p>Then on the steps there appeared a foot, then +another, until a whole human body was in sight. +Then "click, snap!" and the light disappeared.</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed Billie under his breath, +"there's a man on the stairs right opposite to me. +Who on earth can it be?"</p> + +<p>His first inclination was to turn on the light, but +on second thought he decided not to.</p> + +<p>"I'll let him set the copy," thought Billie. "It's +a mighty good thing to be able to spring the surprise."</p> + +<p>He drew his automatic and stood ready for any +emergency.</p> + +<p>It was still as a tomb.</p> + +<p>He could hear his own heart beat and he could +also hear the heavy breathing of the other man.</p> + +<p>"Sounds like he had been running and was just +catching his breath," was Billie's mental comment.</p> + +<p>After some minutes the man's breathing became +more quiet and Billie heard him slowly descending +the stairs.</p> + +<p>"This won't do," thought Billie. "He probably +has some kind of a light, and if he gets on the landing +and I'm up here, I'll be like a man up a tree."</p> + +<p>The lad sat down and slowly slid toward the +bottom.</p> + +<p>Being only a few steps from the landing, Billie +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245" href="#Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span> +was down first. He crowded to the right and +listened.</p> + +<p>The other was now nearly on the landing. Now +he was on the landing, hugging the wall on the +side opposite Billie. Now they passed each other, +or rather the man passed Billie, for Billie stood +perfectly still.</p> + +<p>It seemed as though he must hear Billie's breathing, +but if he heard anything he must have thought +it his own echo, never dreaming that he was not +alone in the passage.</p> + +<p>Now Billie could hear him ascending the stairs +leading to Santiago's house, and his hope rose +high.</p> + +<p>"He must know how to open the floor," thought +Billie. "I'll be right there when he does."</p> + +<p>Silently as a cat Billie crept up the stairs behind +his unknown companion.</p> + +<p>Near the top the man stopped and a minute later +he flashed an electric light against the stone overhead. +Another minute and he heaved with the top +of his head and the slab slid back.</p> + +<p>"And now," exclaimed Billie in a deep voice, "put +your hands over your head!"</p> + +<p>Whether from fear or from the unparalleled surprise +caused by hearing a human voice at such a +time and in such a place, instead of obeying Billie's +command, Strong's hands—for Strong it was—fell +limp at his side and his electric torch fell to +the stones beneath his feet.</p> + +<p>"All right," continued Billy, "if that's the way<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246" href="#Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span> +you feel about it; but just remember that a single +false move and I'll cut this automatic loose among +your ribs. Now climb out a step at a time."</p> + +<p>With face as white as marble at the shock he +had just sustained, Strong obeyed implicitly and +Billie was soon standing on the stone patio, looking +Strong in the face.</p> + +<p>"You're a good one, you are," he said sarcastically. +"I should think you'd be ashamed to call +yourself an American."</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?" asked Strong in a trembling +voice.</p> + +<p>"Why, first of all, stealing from the bank, and +then selling your own countrymen to the Mexicans."</p> + +<p>"Who have I sold?"</p> + +<p>"Do you mean to say that you didn't sell Gen. +Funston to the greasers for ten thousand dollars?"</p> + +<p>"Of course I do!" in a somewhat stronger voice.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you'll deny that you are Strong, the +mountebank. You don't think for one minute that +I don't know you in spite of your make-up, do +you?"</p> + +<p>"No, I'll admit that I'm the mountebank. As for +my name that is of small importance in a country +like this. But I did not sell Gen. Funston, as you +put it. I knew the man I pointed out was not Funston +and I knew that as soon as the Mexicans +found it out they would let him go. Some one +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247" href="#Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span> +might have told them rightly. As it was I spoiled +their game and I got the money. Do you think it +any crime to do that?"</p> + +<p>"That's a matter I am not in a position to discuss," +was Billie's answer. "But how about robbing +the bank?"</p> + +<p>"I had as much right to the box as any one."</p> + +<p>"You'll have to prove that to some one besides +me; all I can do is to turn you over to the authorities."</p> + +<p>"Never!" cried Strong. "I'll die before I'll rot +in a Mexican jail!"</p> + +<p>He uttered a peculiar noise and before Billie +could imagine what it meant, he felt himself seized +from behind by a pair of hairy hands.</p> + +<p>He had been in that clutch once before and +recognized in an instant that he was in the grip of +the ape.</p> + +<p>He gave one loud cry for help and then turned +loose with his automatic.</p> + +<p>The tumult which followed is beyond description. +Billie's shout was as nothing compared to +the cry of the ape as one of the bullets struck +him in the leg and another pierced his foot. Loosing +his hold upon the lad, he grabbed for the +weapon, but Billie managed to evade him and would +undoubtedly have slain the animal had not Strong +sprung to his assistance, with the result that in another +minute Billie was disarmed.</p> + +<p>Ill would the lad have fared then, at the hands +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248" href="#Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span> +of his two assailants, had not the noise attracted +to the scene several soldiers, while an instant later +came a loud shout as Donald and Adrian dashed +into the patio.</p> + +<p>On the other side of the square they had heard +Billie's shout, followed by the automatic, and had +rushed to his aid.</p> + +<p>In another minute both Strong and his hairy +friend were overcome and securely bound.</p> + +<p>"Where did you find him?" asked Donald, pointing +to Strong.</p> + +<p>"Down there," was Billie's reply, as he pointed +toward the still open underground passage way.</p> + +<p>"How did he get there?"</p> + +<p>"I suppose he entered from a similar entrance +in Don Esteban's patio. I have had an idea all +the time that there was some reason for the position +of these two houses."</p> + +<p>"But it doesn't lead into the bank. How could +he steal the box out of the vault?"</p> + +<p>"There is the real thief!" exclaimed Billie, pointing +to the ape. "He sneaked in while Strong kept +the bank employés engaged. By some mistake in +his understanding he put the envelope back in the +bank the next day instead of putting back the box. +It was he who crawled through the bars into Santiago's +library. He was also the devil who scared +the maid almost into fits."</p> + +<p>"Well! Well!" exclaimed a voice from the +gateway. "I never could have believed it."</p> + +<p>The voice was that of Don Esteban, who had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249" href="#Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span> +entered while Billie was speaking.</p> + +<p>"I have come to see this strange man, Santiago +Ojeda," he explained. "What says the doctor?"</p> + +<p>"Here comes the doctor now," announced +Adrian as the physician made his appearance in +the gateway. "He can speak for himself."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXI" id="CHAPTER_XXXI"></a>CHAPTER XXXI.</h2> + +<h3>THE TREASURE OF MONTEZUMA.</h3> + + +<p>The shadows of evening had fallen and a cool +breeze was blowing in off the Gulf of Mexico when +a group of persons, among whom were the Broncho +Rider Boys, gathered around the bedside of the sick +man.</p> + +<p>It was as the physician had predicted, and when +Santiago had awakened after his long sleep, he +had regained his senses, although he was very weak. +But as the day declined and the heat lessened he +had become stronger, and now at his own request, +Lucia and her friends drew around to listen to his +tale.</p> + +<p>At one side of the bed stood Lucia, the three boys +and Don Esteban. At the other stood Mr. Black, +Josie and the physician, while at the foot of the +bed was Strong, with Ambrosio in his arms, and a +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250" href="#Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span> +couple of soldiers who had the mountebank in +custody.</p> + +<p>"As my daughter knows," began Santiago in a +feeble voice, "I am a direct descendant of the great +Montezuma. My ancestor was the guardian of +the treasure which had been accumulated by the +Aztec kings for years. After the overthrow of my +race by the Spanish conquerors, there was given to +my first great ancestor the keeping of the secret +of the source of the gold which had made the city +of Anahuac such a rich prize.</p> + +<p>"This secret has been handed down through all +these generations, the one object being to use this +knowledge in freeing Mexico from the Spanish +yoke. This secret I, as the last of my race, +possess."</p> + +<p>The aged man paused, his strength being hardly +able to the task he had set himself.</p> + +<p>"It is much as I suspected," whispered Don +Esteban to Donald, while Lucia bent over and +smoothed the brow of the sick man.</p> + +<p>"A few years ago," Santiago finally continued, +"I began to see an opportunity for the people to +assert their rights. In our good Señor Madero I +saw the one who should lead the common people out +of their bondage. I went to him and offered him +all the wealth at my command. He accepted the +trust and we began our work. It was at that time +that I placed the money with Don Esteban. Also +the box, containing the secret of the mine, of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251" href="#Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span> +which only I and Madero knew.</p> + +<p>"You all know what has happened since that +time. Madero won, but he was betrayed. His betrayer +now seeks to rule the republic, but he can +never do it. He must be overthrown."</p> + +<p>The aged man became greatly excited and the +physician cautioned him to be careful. In a few +minutes he became more peaceful and continued:</p> + +<p>"I have always been a great friend of the Americans. +I admired their integrity and their government. +I spent many years of my youth in the +United States. I have known many of their great +men. I was sure they would be pleased with Madero, +and they were. But after he was betrayed, +then I began to fear them, as I was told that the +usurper, Huerta, had been helped by them."</p> + +<p>"Who told you that?" asked Billie, almost without +thinking.</p> + +<p>"That man there," and Santiago pointed with his +long bony finger at the mountebank, Strong. +"That man, Francisco Rodriguez, who claims to +be an American, but who is a traitor to his country. +He fed me with lies, as I now know, and he +wormed out of me the secret of Montezuma's +Mine."</p> + +<p>Again the aged man's excitement nearly overcame +him, but again he rallied with an almost superhuman +effort.</p> + +<p>"It was because of his lies that I made him my +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252" href="#Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span> +trusted agent; but he betrayed me as he has others. +It was to him I gave the ten thousand pounds which +the young señor took away from my servant, Pablo +Ojeda—who is not an Ojeda, but whom I have +allowed to use that name. I desire that the money +become the property of the young señor," and he +feebly extended his hand toward Billie, "who has +always been such a good friend to me and mine. +The secret of the mine is to be found in the box +which I left with Don Esteban. I am getting to be +an old man, and if you will now bring in the box, +I will turn it over to my daughter Lucia, who is +my only descendant."</p> + +<p>Don Esteban made no move to comply with the +request, but looked at the boys in such a perplexed +manner that the sick man was quick to take notice.</p> + +<p>"What is it?" he asked, rising on his elbow and +looking at Don Esteban with burning gaze. "What +is it? Has anything happened to the box?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," faltered the banker, "it has been stolen."</p> + +<p>"Stolen!" almost shrieked Santiago. "Stolen! +Then there stands the thief!" and he pointed to +Strong, who stood with blanched face.</p> + +<p>"We know that," said Billie, "but the box has +been stolen again and no one knows where it has +gone."</p> + +<p>"You are wrong," muttered Strong. "It has not +been stolen. It is in the bank where it always was."</p> + +<p>"Impossible!" cried Don Esteban. "How could +it be back in the vault?"</p> + +<p>"Ask Ambrosio," replied Strong, with a wan<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253" href="#Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span> +smile. "He can tell."</p> + +<p>"Of course he cannot tell," almost shouted Don +Esteban.</p> + +<p>"Then we shall never know; but I am sure the +box is there."</p> + +<p>"Send for it! Send for it!" cried Santiago. +"Send for it at once that I may turn over to my +daughter the secret of the mine."</p> + +<p>"That you will never be able to do," said Strong. +"It has been destroyed."</p> + +<p>"Destroyed!" burst from almost every lip. "Destroyed? +How?"</p> + +<p>Strong shook his head.</p> + +<p>"I can't tell. Again you'll have to ask Ambrosio. +It is he who destroyed it."</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed Billie, "I knew I ought +to have killed that monk the first time I had any dealings +with him. I'm sorry now that I didn't."</p> + +<p>"At any rate," declared Don Esteban, "I shall +send for the box."</p> + +<p>He turned to Santiago, who had fallen back upon +his pillow, and over whom the physician was bending +and feeling his pulse.</p> + +<p>"I shall send for it at once," he repeated.</p> + +<p>Slowly the physician raised his head and loosed +his hold upon the sick man's wrist.</p> + +<p>"It is too late," he said. "He will not need it. +He is dead."</p> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + +<p>On board a returning army transport bound for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254" href="#Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span> +New York stood the Broncho Rider Boys casting +their last glance shoreward as the sun was setting +behind the mountains that form the background +of the city of Vera Cruz. Over the city still waved +the Stars and Stripes, and as the darkness fell and +the tip of Mt. Orizaba gradually faded from sight, +Billie turned to the others and in a voice tinged with +sadness remarked:</p> + +<p>"There's only one thing about the whole country +that I admire."</p> + +<p>"What's, that?" asked Adrian. "Lucia?"</p> + +<p>"No; it's the wholesome respect the Mexicans +show for Brigadier-General Funston."</p> + +<p>"Yes, and if he is let alone, he'll make them +respect the American flag," echoed Donald.</p> + +<p>"Long may it wave!" was Adrian's sententious +comment.</p> + +<p>But it did not wave long over Vera Cruz, for +the following November, Huerta having been +obliged to leave the country in the meantime and +Gen. Carranza having established himself for the +time being in the City of Mexico, the American +forces were withdrawn and the Carranza forces +took possession of Vera Cruz. Some months later +Carranza was recognized by the United States, and +at this writing is establishing his government, which +promises to be a continuation of the one established +by Madero.</p> + +<p>Thus it will be seen that Santiago's work for +<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255" href="#Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span> +his country was productive of good, as are all efforts +to bring liberty to the people and to free them +from the rule of a few.</p> + +<p>Before sailing for home, the boys had the satisfaction +of knowing that the man known as Strong +had been properly punished, and that, in accordance +with Santiago's dying wish, the ten thousand +pounds which he had practically given to Billie +months before on the Rio Grande, were placed to +the lad's credit in the banking house of Don +Esteban.</p> + +<p>The fate of Ambrosio, the ape which caused so +much trouble, was left in the hands of the keeper +of the prison to which Strong was sentenced. It is +to be hoped that his behavior will improve.</p> + + +<h4>THE END.</h4> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + +<table border="1" cellpadding="10" summary="Transcriber's Notes"> +<tr><td><b>TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES</b> + +<p>Front matter: Added table of contents.</p> + +<p>Page 48: Removed extra quotation mark.</p> + +<p>Page 60: Changed "moso" to "mozo."</p> + +<p>Page 62: Changed typo "gaurd" to "guard."</p> + +<p>Page 87: Changed typo "variey" to "variety."</p> + +<p>Pages 123, 132: Left words "blue-jackets" and "bluejackets" as +printed.</p> + +<p>Page 140: Added closing quotation mark.</p> + +<p>Page 197: Added missing period.</p> + +<p>Pages 206, 214, 224: Left words "kipnaped" and "kipnapped" as +printed.</p> +</td></tr></table> + + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Broncho Rider Boys with Funston at +Vera Cruz, by Frank Fowler + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BRONCHO RIDER BOYS WITH *** + +***** This file should be named 19538-h.htm or 19538-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/9/5/3/19538/ + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Suzan Flanagan and the +Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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