The old woman glanced at the money, looked around on the soldiers and glared at the captain, who was switching a cruel whip. Then she said, sullenly:
“I will tell you, señor, but not for money. It is because you had a kind thought for old Julia. Listen, Vasco has gone to the cave by the small mountain.”
“I know where that is!” exclaimed the captain. “Many a time have we had fights there with the brigands. It is about ten miles off.”
“Then let us hurry there!” cried Jerry.
The professor handed the old woman the bills. She took them, hiding them quickly in her dress.
“The whip would have been cheaper,” said the captain, with a regretful sigh. “It is money thrown away.”
“I have more to throw after it, if you and your men rescue the kidnapped boy!” exclaimed the naturalist, for he understood something of the Mexican character.
“Good!” cried the captain. “Come, men, hurry! We will wipe the brigands from the face of the earth!”
Indeed, new enthusiasm seemed to be infused into the soldiers at the mention of money. Those who had dismounted, sprang quickly to the saddles, the bugler blew a lively air, and the troops started off at a smart trot. Old Julia was left behind in the camp of the kidnappers.