“That’s better, for it takes us beyond midnight. I shouldn’t wonder, if Geronimo waits that long, that he will not conclude it best to give up his raid.”
This was thrown out as a feeler, and both, with a smile, awaited the comment of Mendez, but he made none. He seemed to think he had imparted sufficient information.
“While we are speculating,” continued the lieutenant, “it seems to me that when one o’clock arrives, the chief will send some other scout, or perhaps two or three of them, to investigate—all of which will consume time, so that the night will be well gone before he makes a move. Am I right, Mendez?”
“Dunno.”
The lieutenant was in high spirits over their success thus far and disposed to be facetious at the expense of their grim companion.
“You made the same remark before, as preliminary to a definite expression of your views; may I hope that it will be the same in this instance?”
Perhaps the wording of this inquiry lifted it above the comprehension of the Apache, for, withdrawing his scrutiny of their surroundings for a minute, he looked at the officer, and, in his contempt for his badinage, forgot the respect due his rank.
“Huh! talk like big fool!”
This was too much for Freeman, who threw back his head and laughed heartily, taking care that his mirth should be as silent as possible. Mendez now stared at him, and said with more scorn if possible than before: