Maximina told how she had been at the Mexicans’ camp when Bob was brought there, she having been a captive for many years. She determined to help him escape, and did so when the opportunity offered. She told how she knew, in a general way, where the buried city was, as Bob had told her something about it, and she had overheard Vasco and his men talking about the locality where they had fallen down the tunnel.
“But Bob’s horse fell and threw him off,” she explained, in her native tongue. “I wanted to stay with him, but he told me to go on. Then Vasco came and got him, but I rode away, for I wanted to find you. I had hard work, and I lost my way several times. Three days ago my pony died and I walked the rest of the distance.”
“Poor girl! You must be almost tired to death,” said the professor.
“I was tired, but it is happiness to find you, señors, for I know you will go and help Señor Bob.”
“Of course we will, right away,” said the naturalist.
“She seems to have taken a sudden liking to our friend Bob,” commented Ned. “She’s a mighty pretty girl, too; don’t you think so, Jerry?”
“Be careful,” laughed Jerry. “Don’t go to having any love affairs with beautiful Mexican maidens. I have read that they are a very jealous and quick-tempered nation. Besides, you are too young.”
“I’m a year older than Bob,” maintained Ned.
“Now, boys, what had we better do?” asked the professor. “Maximina can guide us to the place where Bob is held captive. Shall we go and give battle to these brigands?”
“Sure!” exclaimed Ned. “We have plenty of ammunition.”