The officer assured him that it was more than possible; that it was a fact.
“They must be smart young men to escape General Sanchez,” was the general’s next remark.
“They are,” declared the officer, who seemed to be considerably nettled at the general’s manner. It was a daring ride, he had seen it and he wanted the credit of bringing in three such valuable recruits. “I’d be glad to have them in my battalion,” he added.
“Asi!” said the general as he slowly nodded his head. He was clearly suspicious and still the revolution was so new and the need of men so great that
he couldn’t afford to be too particular. “So you would like them in your company, Don Carlos?”
“Cierto!” was the officer’s emphatic reply.
“Very well; take them along. But remember, you have sharp work ahead, and want only men on whom you can depend. These American cowboys are a hard lot, especially when they are drinking.”
“I know men when I see them,” replied Don Carlos, with an air of self-importance. “I wasn’t born yesterday.”
“Bueno!” and the general waved his hand. “Take them away. I’m busy now; but come back in an hour and I’ll give you your instructions.”
“Come,” commanded the officer called Don Carlos, and the boys followed him from the room, not having spoken a word.