“In that case, we are something of a mystery to each other.”
“Very true. As far as I am concerned, the mystery is easily solved. My name is Felipe Dulzura. I am from Santa Barbara. I own some vineyards there.”
Having made this apparently frank explanation, the man paused and looked inquiringly at Merry, as if expecting at least as much in return.
Frank did not hesitate.
“My name is Frank Merriwell,” he said, “and I am a miner.”
“A miner?”
“Yes, sir.”
“You can’t have any mines in this vicinity.”
“Possibly I am looking the country over for an investment.”
“It’s possible,” nodded Dulzura. “But from your intelligent appearance, I should fancy it hardly probable.”