superior intelligence. His knowledge of
Mexicans was second only to his hate of them. And Yaqui, who had been
scouting on all the trails, gave information that made Belding decide
to wait some days before sending any one to Casita. He required
promises from his rangers, particularly Gale, not to leave without his
consent.

It was upon Gale's coming from this conference that he encountered
Nell. Since the interrupted siesta episode she had been more than
ordinarily elusive, and about all he had received from her was a
tantalizing smile from a distance. He got the impression now, however,
that she had awaited him. When he drew close to her he was certain of
it, and he experienced more than surprise.

"Dick," she began, hurriedly. "Dad's not going to send any one to see
about Thorne?"

"No, not yet. He thinks it best not to. We all think so. I'm sorry.
Poor Mercedes!"

"I knew it. I tried to coax him to send Laddy or even Yaqui. He
wouldn't listen to me. Dick, Mercedes is dying by inches. Can't you
see what ails her? It's more than love or fear. It's
uncertainty--suspense. Oh, can't we find out for her?"

"Nell, I feel as badly as you about her. I wanted to ride in to
Casita. Belding shut me up quick, the last time."

Nell came close to Gale, clasped his arm. There was no color in her
face. Her eyes held a dark, eager excitement.

"Dick, will you slip off without Dad's consent? Risk it! Go to Casita
and find out what's happened to Thorne--at least if he ever started for
Forlorn River?"

"No, Nell, I won't do that."

She drew away from him with passionate suddenness.

"Are you afraid?"

This certainly was not the Nell Burton that Gale knew.

"No, I'm not afraid," Gale replied, a little nettled.

"Will you go--for my sake?" Like lightning her mood changed and she
was close to him again, hands on his, her face white, her whole
presence sweetly alluring.

"Nell, I won't disobey Belding," protested Gale. "I won't break my
word."

"Dick, it'll not be so bad as that. But--what if it is?... Go, Dick,
if not for poor Mercedes's sake, then for mine--to please me.
I'll--I'll... you won't lose anything by going. I think I know how
Mercedes feels. Just a word from Thorne or about him would save her.
Take Blanco Sol and go, Dick. What rebel outfit could ever ride you
down on that horse? Why, Dick, if I was up on Sol I wouldn't be afraid
of the whole rebel army."

"My dear girl, it's not