It was after midnight when they recrossed the river to the American
side, using a ford known to but a few smugglers. When day broke they
were well inland and secure in the chaparral. Another night's travel,
and they were encamped in the place agreed upon. Reports which the
members of the band brought to the chief showed that the authorities
had made no movement as yet, so evidently this outrage had never been
properly reported.

Don Ramon was now furnished paper and pencil, and he addressed a
letter to his son and family. The contents can easily be imagined.
It concluded with an appeal to secrecy, and an order to observe
in confidence and honor any compact made, as his life and liberty
depended on it. When this missive had passed the scrutiny of the
bandits, it was dispatched by one of their number to Senora Mora. It
was just two weeks since Don Ramon's disappearance, a fortnight of
untold anguish and uncertainty to his family.

The messenger reached Agua Dulce an hour before midnight, and seeing
a light in the house, warned the inmates of his presence by the usual
"Ave Maria," a friendly salutation invoking the blessings of the
saints on all within hearing. Supposing that some friend had a word
for them, the son went outside, meeting the messenger.

"Are you the son of Don Ramon Mora?" asked the bandit.

"I am," replied the young man; "won't you dismount?"

"No. I bear a letter to you from your father. One moment, senor!
I have within call half a dozen men. Give no alarm. Read his
instructions to you. I shall expect an answer in half an hour. The
letter, senor."

The son hastened into the house to read his father's communication.
The bandit kept a strict watch over the premises to see that no
demonstration was made against him. When the half hour was nearly up,
the son came forward and tendered the answer. Passing the compliments
of the moment, the man rode away as airily as though the question were
of hearts instead of life. The reply was first read by Don Ramon, then
turned over to the chief. It would require a second letter, which
was to be called for in four days. Things were now nearing the danger
point. They must be doubly vigilant; so all but the chief and two
guards scattered out and watched every movement. Two or three towns
on the river were to have special care. Friends of the family lived
in these towns. They must be watched. The officers of the law were the
most to be feared. Every bit of conversat