"Well, I'll be along between six and half-past," said Scott, and then wondered why he had said it.
"It is well," bowed Lazaro, rising. "I will now intrude no more on your precious time."
Scott stood up.
"Hang it all!" he exclaimed. "I'd swear I know you! Isn't it possible we have met before. I can't seem to remember your face, but your eyes and your voice seem to stir some forgotten memory within me."
The Mexican slowly shook his head.
"I have traveled much," he said, "and have met many people; but I am certain it has never been my good fortune to be presented to you, Señor Scott. Of course it is possible that you may have seen me somewhere and some time in the past; but I would swear that never until I entered this office did I place my eyes on you. Your face is one not easily forgotten."
"And yours is one no man should forget, sir. I presume I am mistaken."
Lazaro paused at the door.
"If you found it convenient to bring along one of your associates in this railroad deal, say Señor Hatch or Señor Bragg, I should be glad."
"Not likely I can. It is barely possible I might bring Merriwell."