hunter
of Indians in the whole province--hence the strange salutation with
which Don Augustin received him.

"Before answering you, Senor Don Augustin, permit me to introduce to you
the king of _gambusinos_ and prince of musicians, the Senor Don Diego
Oroche, who scents a placer of gold as a hound would a deer, and who
plays upon the mandolin as only he can play."

The individual presented under the name of Oroche, solemnly saluted the
haciendado.

It must have been a long time since the prince of gambusinos had found
an opportunity to exercise the subtle talent of which his companion
spoke--or else the cards had been of late unlucky--for his outward man
presented an appearance that was scarcely more than comfortable.

In reaching his hand to his hat, it was not necessary for him to
disarrange the folds of his cloak. It only required that he should
choose one of the numerous rents that appeared in this garment, to pass
through it his long-clawed fingers--whose length and thinness denoted
him a player on the mandolin. In reality, he carried one of these
instruments slung over his shoulders.

Don Augustin invited both Diaz and his singular companion to enter.
When they were seated in the saloon Diaz began the conversation.

"We have heard," said he, "of an expedition being got up at Arispe to
proceed to _Apacheria_; and this gentleman and I are on our way to take
part in it. Your hacienda, Senor Don Augustin, chanced to lie in our
way, and we have entered to ask your permission to lodge here for the
night. By daybreak we shall continue our route for Arispe."

"You will not have to go so far," replied Don Augustin, with a smile.
"The expedition is already on foot, and I expect the leader of it here
this very night. He will be glad of your services, I guarantee you, and
it will save you several days' journey."

"A miracle in our favour!" exclaimed Diaz; "and I thank God for the
lucky coincidence."

"The thirst of gold has caught you also, Pedro Diaz?" asked Don
Augustin, smiling significantly.

"No, thank God!" replied Diaz, "nothing of the sort. Heave the
searching for gold to experienced gambusinos, such as the Senor Oroche
here. No--you know well that I have no other passion than hatred for
the ferocious savages who have done so much ill towards me and mine. It
is only because I hope through this expedition once more to carry steel
and fire into their midst, that I take any part in it."

"It is righ