les!" The soldiers are seen caparisoning their horses and
standing by the stirrup.

Another blast gives the order to "Mount!" Soon after, the "Forward!"
Then the troop files off from the front of the jacal, disappearing under
the trees like a gigantic glittering serpent. The white drapery of a
woman's dress is seen fluttering at its head, as if the reptile had
seized upon some tender prey--a dove from the cote--and was bearing it
off to its slimy lair.

For another half-hour the two men on the mound wait with nervous
impatience. It requires this time to make the ascent from the centre of
the valley to the upper plain. After entering among the trees, the
soldiers and their captives are out of sight; but the clattering of
their horses' hoofs can be heard as they strike upon the rock-strewn
path. Once or twice a trumpet sound proclaims their movements upon the
march.

At length the head of the troop appears, the leading files following one
after the other along the narrow ledge. As they approach the summit of
the pass the track widens, admitting a formation "by twos." At the
trumpet call they change to this, a single horseman riding at their
head.

He is now near enough for his features to be distinguished, and
Hamersley's heart strikes fiercely against his ribs as he recognises
them. If he had any doubt before, it is set at rest now. He sees Gil
Uraga, certain of his being the man who caused the destruction of his
caravan. His own horse, ridden by the robber, is proof conclusive of
the crime.

He takes note that the lancer colonel is dressed in splendid style, very
different from the dust-stained cavalier who the day before passed over
the desert plain. Now he appears in a gorgeous laced uniform, with
lancer cap and plume, gold cords and aiguillettes dangling adown his
breast; for he has this morning made his toilet with care, in
consideration of the company in which he intends travelling.

Neither Hamersley nor the hunter hold their eyes long upon him; they are
both looking for another individual--each his own. These soon make
their appearance, their white dresses distinguishable amid the darker
uniforms. During the march their position has been changed. They are
now near the centre of the troop, the young lady upon her own mare
Lolita, while the Indian damsel is mounted on a mule. They are free,
both hand and limb, but a file in front, with another behind, have
charge of them. Farther rearward i