"I'm out hyar whar I kin take a peep at yer, as I heard yer comin'. Didn't know but you wus Greasers, an' I ain't got no use fer ther onery varmints. As yer kin talk United States, just move right up ter the fire and join me at supper."
There was a hearty freedom about the invitation that dispelled Frank's fears immediately, and they rode forward into the firelight.
As they did so, a man rose from where he had been stretched on the sand, and came forward to meet them.
"Great Scott!" shouted Frank, as the firelight fell on the man's face. "It's Alwin Bushnell, Jack Burk's partner!"
CHAPTER VIII.
THE TREASURE SEEKER.
"Thet thar's my handle," acknowledged the man; "but I'm strapped ef I understand how you 'uns happen ter know it!"
He stared at the boys and the guide in blank amazement. Seeing Pedro's face fairly, he gave a slight start, and then looked still more closely.
"There's no doubt," palpitated Frank; "you are Alwin Bushnell?"