brightened. "Nell could look after
herself if given half a chance. And maybe we'll catch up to these
Yaquis before very long."

"Sure we will!" asserted Snake, but he and the other cowboys, more
experienced in matters of this sort than our heroes, felt that there
was a grim terror between them and those whom they pursued.

However they had started, and were making as good time as possible.
Messages had passed between Mr. Merkel and those in authority at La
Nogalique, and the probable route of the kidnapping Yaquis was
indicated as well as could be. This saved a long trip to the border in
order to get on the trail of the Indians from the time they had taken
Rosemary and Floyd.

Well armed, with righteous indignation burning in their hearts, used to
roughing it, and with men who knew almost every foot of the country,
the expedition from Diamond X was well equipped for the work in hand.

At first after they started out there was eager talk, and speculation
as to where the Indians would be met with, and what the probable
outcome would be of the fight that was sure to follow.

"Unless they run off when they see us and leave Rosemary and Floyd for
us to bring back," spoke Dick, almost afraid lest this outcome should
prevent a fight.

"Don't worry. They won't run! They'll stand and give us as good or as
bad as we can send," declared Rolling Stone.

"We'll wipe out the band if we get half a chance!" declared Bud, and it
was not said in a bloodthirsty or boastful spirit. It was calm
retribution that actuated our friends.

Along the trail they traveled--a trail they were destined to follow for
weary days and nights. This was only the beginning. They must make
all the speed they could, and yet spare the horses all that was
possible. There was a chance of getting new mounts at several places,
but it was only a chance and could not be depended on. They must save
what they had, both in the way of horseflesh and rations.

Night found them well on their way, and though the boys were eager to
continue, Snake insisted on a halt being made not only for supper but
to give men and horses a needed rest.

"The Indians will have to stop just as we do," said the older cowboy.
"They can't keep on continually; they have to stop and rest."

"Yes, I suppose so," granted Bud.

So the night camp was made, and when the horses had been turned out to
graze, hobbled so they would not stray, and when the evening meal was
over, the