[CHAPTER XXX.—AU REVOIR, BUT NOT GOOD-BY.]
It was not until two hours after daylight that the complete result of Villa’s strategy was apparent. At that hour the battle was over and the Federals took possession of the city. For a minor battle it had been a severe one, and the victory was well won.
From the balcony of the city hall the Broncho Rider Boys watched the victorious army, with General Sanchez at its head, march into the town. As the column passed the place where the boys stood, the general caught sight of them as he glanced from right to left, and gave them a salute with his sword, which was followed by every member of his staff. The boys returned the salute, and a few minutes later were given a chorus of “Vivas,” as the troop of Villa passed the balcony.
The Americans who had taken part in the rescue of the boys had returned to the American side before it was light.
“I reckon we had better return, too,” said Donald,
as the boys were talking the matter over a few minutes later.
“Yes,” replied Adrian, “I suppose we should go and make our report to Lieutenant Grant.”
“I can’t see that there is much to report,” declared Donald.
“Why,” exclaimed Billie, with a hearty laugh, “that the gun-running expedition has been abandoned for want of runners.”
“Don’t you think he has heard about it before this?” asked Adrian.