le on
getting far in advance of them, and, when he stopped at the entrance to
the pass, he seemed as fresh as ever.

The boys had expressed the hope that they would surprise some of the
robbers in the glade, but were disappointed. They found their saddles,
bridles, blankets, and weapons, however, and Archie recovered his horse,
which was standing contentedly beside the spring, half asleep, as usual.
Every thing was gathered up, including a few articles the robbers had
left behind, and, as they rode toward the settlement, the boys told each
other that the next time they went hunting, after Pierre's band had all
been captured, they would camp in the glade.

Archie was confined to the house for a day or two after that; but, if
his body was stiff and bruised, his tongue was all right, and it was a
long time before he got through relating the incidents of his fight with
the traitor.

Frank and Johnny had met with no adventures, not having seen any of the
band after they left the glade. They crossed the ledge without
accident--although they confessed that they would think twice before
trying it again--and, when they reached the end of the pass, they
concealed themselves in a hollow log until morning. When they were about
to continue their flight, they discovered the mustang, which, unwilling
to be left alone in the glade, had crossed the ledge, and was on his way
home. Frank easily caught him; but, knowing his favorite's disposition
as well as he did, hesitated about requiring him to carry double;
however, he finally decided that Roderick was large enough and strong
enough to carry them both, and that he must do it, or take the
consequences. Frank thereupon mounted the animal, Johnny climbed up
behind him, and Roderick, after a few angry kicks, consented to the
arrangement. Believing the boldest course to be the safest, they put the
horse to the top of his speed, trusting to his momentum to overcome any
thing that might endeavor to obstruct the path.

While Archie was confined to the house, Dick and old Bob were busy, and
their efforts were rewarded by the capture of three more of the band,
who were sent to San Diego with the others. Only one was left now, and
that was Joaquin, who had thus far successfully eluded pursuit. The
traitor was also missing; and, although Mr. Vane kept his herdsmen in
the mountains continually, nothing had been seen of him. Arthur was
paying the penalty of his treachery, and was being punished