On his way to the shed that morning, he noticed several men whom he had not before seen. Among them he observed the outlaws Jose and Miguel. He paid no attention to them however until they came up beside him. He was engaged in currying his horse.
“That is a good beast you have there,” said Miguel. “Cuanto? How much for him?”
“Good morning,” responded Chot, and continued, “He isn’t for sale.”
“Your horse?” went on the man.
“No,” said Chot, shortly. “He isn’t mine.”
“Where do you come from?” asked Miguel.
“I came from Captain Benson’s,” said Chot, guardedly, thinking it wise not to speak of Rosado.
“Isn’t that Mr. Shelton’s horse?” asked Jose.
“Yes,” said Chot. “Do you know the owner?”
The man muttered something which Chot could not understand.