So violent and unexpected was his assault that it threw Aragon into a panic, and even Manuel del Rey softened his manner as he inquired into the cause.
"Never mind," answered Bud, smiling crustily as Aragon laid aside his arms; "I know that hombre well! Now what can I do for you, capitan?"
"Be so kind as to take your hand from your belt," replied Del Rey with a smile that was intended to placate. "Ah, thank you—excuse my nerves—now I can tell you the news. I regret to inform you señor, that your friend, De Lancey, has deserted from my command, taking his arms and equipment with him. In case he is captured he will be shot as a deserter."
"Your news is old, capitan," rejoined Hooker. "I knew it two days ago. And you can tell Mr. Aragon that it is no use for him to try to get this mine—I became a Mexican citizen yesterday and located it myself."
"So we learned," responded the captain suavely. "It was part of my errand to-day to ask if you would not enlist in my company of rurales."
"Muchas gracias, capitan," answered Hooker with heavy irony. "I do not care to!"
"But your friend—" protested Manuel del Rey with an insinuating smile.
"My friend was in jail," put in Bud; "he was to be shot at sunrise. But mira, amigo, I am not in jail, and, furthermore, I do not intend to be."
"That is very creditable to you," laughed Del Rey; "but even then you are entitled to enlist."
"The country is full of turbulent fellows who have to be caught or killed. Come now, you understand my errand—why make it hard for me?"