s pawing in
the air. But three of us--we need fear no one."

"We will go as soon as the guests are gone. I have heard of this
'gold.' In Europe--I have an uncle who has travelled and has told me
many things--bueno, in Europe, they make it into money and give it for
things in big houses they call shops. Even here, in Monterey, and
perhaps the other towns, they have a little--it comes from Mexico. My
uncle said that one reason we were so happy was because we had so
little money--none at all, we might say. That we got what we wanted out
of the earth, or by trading with one another or with the skippers from
Boston, who are glad to give us what we need from other lands in return
for our hides and tallow. So, if we find this 'gold' perhaps we had
better say nothing about it; but to find it--that will be a great, a
grand adventure."

"We'll tell if we find it," said Adan, philosophically.

The boys concocted a plan of campaign to their satisfaction, then went
home to supper. Don Tiburcio and his wife, Dona Martina, were already
seated at the table in the big bare room. The grandee was a huge man
with a soft profile, and cheeks as large and cream-hued as one of the
magnolias hanging in the patio. He had an expression of indolent
good-nature above his straight mouth, and long hands that looked lean
and hard when they closed suddenly. He was a man of much influence in
the politics of his country. His small-clothes were of dark green cloth
with large silver buttons, the lace on his linen was fine and abundant.
Dona Martina wore a gown of stiff flowered silk and a profusion of
topaz ornaments. As the boys entered and bowed respectfully, Don
Tiburcio eyed them keenly, but shook them cordially by the hand.

"So you are the son of Mateo Castanada," he said to Roldan. "It is
evident enough, although you have something in the face that he has
not. Otherwise I should not have done him to death in more than one
political battle. Well, my sons, you are very welcome, and the longer
you stay with us the better. The officers passed here some days
ago--Rafael hid in the garret for the two days I feasted them, and they
do not know that I have a son so young. Well, you are in good time to
help my son enjoy his Christmas."

There was an abundant supper of meat with hot pepper-sauce, tomatoes
and eggs baked together, and many dulces. The boys wondered if dried
meat and coarse cakes were part of an adventurous dream.

The next morning chocol