Without unnecessary delay, they took the train from Mendoza to Zacatecas, which was a much larger place.
In Zacatecas they set about the task of finding a reliable guide, which was no easy matter, as they soon discovered.
The Mexican half-bloods were a lazy, shiftless set, and the full-blooded Spaniards did not seem to care about taking the trip across the desert.
Till late that night Frank searched in vain for the man he wanted, and he was finally forced to give up the task till another day.
Such a delay made him very impatient, and he felt much like starting out without a guide, depending on a compass, with which he believed he would be able to make his way due west to Huejugilla el Alto.
The landlord of the hotel at which they stopped that night was a fine-appearing man, and Frank ventured to lay the matter before him.
The landlord listened to the entire story, looking very grave, shook his head warningly, and said:
"Do not think of attempting to cross the desert alone, young señors. Without a guide you might get lost and perish for water. By all means, take a guide."
"But how are we to obtain a trustworthy guide, sir?"
"That is truly a problem, but I think I may be able to assist you in the morning."