“Well, somebody had to do it, and I was closest the horse,” was the reply. “I knew they couldn’t hit me.”
“Nevertheless, it was a desperate risk,” said Dick, who came up at that moment. “I expected to see your horse go tumbling.”
“But how did you get aid so quickly?” demanded Shirley.
Mabel explained.
“And they made me go back when the fighting began,” she continued. “I wanted to hunt you up immediately, but the lieutenant wouldn’t let me.”
“I should say not,” declared Dick.
“Shirley was in danger. Why shouldn’t I have been there?” demanded Mabel. “I saw Dick and the general fighting and I came forward as fast as I could,” the girl continued, “and when I saw the Nicaraguan go down I knew our troubles were over.”
“And where is Dad?” asked Shirley.
“I didn’t see him,” replied Mabel. “I suppose they are looking for us in some other part of the town. I’ll bet they are badly frightened.”
“I fear so too,” replied Shirley. “I guess we had better get back as soon as we can. But we shall have to thank the lieutenant first.”